... upload pictures from my own computer. Here are some friends at the March for Life.
Sunday, January 30, 2005
Civilized World Winning
It's been exciting to see freedom advance in the world in recent weeks in the Ukraine and in today's election in Iraq, where high turnout is defying the terrorists' attempt at violent intimidation.
Now-a-days, wherever significant events are occurring somewhere in the world, bloggers are present to record and comment.
It's been exciting to see freedom advance in the world in recent weeks in the Ukraine and in today's election in Iraq, where high turnout is defying the terrorists' attempt at violent intimidation.
"The news is freedom has won," Al-Lami said. "We have conquered terrorism."
Now-a-days, wherever significant events are occurring somewhere in the world, bloggers are present to record and comment.
Thursday, January 27, 2005
Solemn Anniversaries
The world today marked the sixtieth anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz death camp.
Meanwhile, NASA observed a Day of Remembrance for the Apollo 1, Challenger and Columbia astronauts. All three space tragedies occurred at this time of year.
The world today marked the sixtieth anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz death camp.
Meanwhile, NASA observed a Day of Remembrance for the Apollo 1, Challenger and Columbia astronauts. All three space tragedies occurred at this time of year.
Wednesday, January 26, 2005
Cosmic Entertainer
The late Johnny Carson hosted guests from all walks of life on his late night television show, including two noted astronomers.
Also, I've learned third-hand from an e-mail that his New York Times obit contained an example of an astronomical side of his humor:
The late Johnny Carson hosted guests from all walks of life on his late night television show, including two noted astronomers.
Also, I've learned third-hand from an e-mail that his New York Times obit contained an example of an astronomical side of his humor:
Once he was asked how he became a star, and he replied, "I started in a gaseous state, and then I cooled."
Tuesday, January 25, 2005
The People Gathered.
Yesterday was a good day at this year's March for Life. The group I was with joined the March at 7th St., about half way between the Ellipse and the Supreme Court. Earlier, the rally held at the Ellipse was addressed (via phone) by President Bush.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has deepened another crisis in the cause of life by refusing to hear the case for reinstating the law protecting Terri Schindler-Schiavo. See reports here and here.
Yesterday was a good day at this year's March for Life. The group I was with joined the March at 7th St., about half way between the Ellipse and the Supreme Court. Earlier, the rally held at the Ellipse was addressed (via phone) by President Bush.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court has deepened another crisis in the cause of life by refusing to hear the case for reinstating the law protecting Terri Schindler-Schiavo. See reports here and here.
Saturday, January 22, 2005
Why We March
This is a slightly revised and updated article I first wrote and posted last year at this time.
Today, January 22, marks the 32nd anniversary of the infamous Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton Supreme Court decisions which imposed abortion-on-demand in the United States. Once again, concerned citizens will gather on Monday for the annual March for Life, which in recent years has usually drawn more than 100,000 participants. Now, why do so many people consider it so important to take time on a weekday to come to Washington, DC at the coldest time of the year to make their voice heard on this matter?
Before I go on any further, I need to say a couple of things. First, nothing in this article is meant to condemn anyone who has had an abortion or has been involved in abortion in some way. Far from condemning those with an abortion in their past, the people in the prolife movement are about healing and forgiveness, and want it to be clear that there is hope after abortion. Post-abortion counseling can be found through many church denominations and pregnancy counseling centers.
And second, while the prolife movement consists largely of people with strong religious convictions who feel called by God to defend the defenseless, that doesn’t make the protection of human life a narrow, religious issue. The facts that the defenseless exist and that they deserve protection in the human family can be persuasively advocated by non-religiously reasoned arguments.
First, let’s start with a little scientific background (from the Science for Unborn Human Life website) about how each of us began our lives as unique human beings. A new human being is conceived when a sperm fertilizes an egg. The sperm has 23 chromosomes and so does the egg. But the fertilized egg has 46, half from each parent, and is genetically unique. These 46 chromosomes, which are fixed at conception, establish the child's sex and are a blueprint for how it will develop, both during pregnancy and after birth.
Blood vessels start to form very early, about 13-18 days after fertilization. Then, on about the 20th day - nearly the end of the third week - the foundation of the brain, the spinal cord, and the entire nervous system is established. The heart begins to beat on about the 22nd day after conception, circulating blood throughout the child. The arms begin to form on about day 26, followed by the beginnings of the legs on day 28, the same day that the mouth opens for the first time.
Both the eyes and ears are developing rapidly during the seventh week after conception. At this time, the thumbs, neck, heels of the feet and all of the fingers are also present. Taste buds begin to form during the eighth week after conception. All parts of the limbs are apparent at this time. In addition, the fingers and toes have lengthened and are completely separated.
By the end of the eighth week the overwhelming majority (several thousand) of the body's organs, structures and systems have already begun to develop. Few, if any, new structures begin to form after this time. During the remainder of the pregnancy, development consists mainly of growth and maturation of the parts of the body that are already present.
Isolated arm, leg and backward head movements begin at about 7 to 10 weeks after conception. During the ninth week, a regular pattern of breathing movements is observed, with a median frequency of about 30 breaths each hour.
These are just the highlights of how you developed during the first 2-3 months of your life. Now consider that a majority of abortions are performed during the tenth to twelfth week of gestation. Some are performed much later in the pregnancy, when the child has grown larger and any unbiased observer would recognize a baby when they see one.
So why if the evidence so clearly indicates that a unique human life begins at conception, how did the deliberate and violent destruction of that life come to be imposed as a ‘constitutional right’? Time does not permit describing the whole history of abortion or the intertwining influences of the eugenics and population control movements. Let’s start with the socially turbulent late sixties when a growing pro-abortion movement subversively exploited the legitimate aspirations of women for greater rights and participation in society.
Dr. Bernard Nathanson, former abortionist and co-founder of the pro-abortion group NARAL, has since changed his mind and heart and is now a leading prolife advocate. He points out the disinformation at the heart of the pro-abortion campaign.
The movement made rapid progress. California, New York and a few other states passed ‘liberalized’ abortion laws (though some other states rejected them). But what embedded abortion in American law were two Supreme Court cases, Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton, pronounced on January 22, 1973. The combined effect of the two decisions was to effectively impose abortion-on-demand throughout the nine months of pregnancy. Since that time, over forty million human beings have been exterminated by abortion in the United States.
Aside from the grave issue that was decided, the finding that abortion is part of a constitutional ‘right of privacy’ is considered an overreach of judicial power even by some legal scholars who describe themselves as ‘prochoice’. The ‘reasoning’ was based on ‘penumbras’ the justices claim to have seen in the constitution.
Did you know that the two plaintiffs in the Roe and Doe cases, Norma McCorvey and Sandra Cano, have filed affidavits to the effect that they were manipulated into their roles and that the decisions should be overturned? You would think that this development would be considered unprecedented in Supreme Court history, but I guess Dan Rather, Katie Couric, the New York Times, etc. forgot to inform you.
One fact that is becoming evident that abortion-on-demand is not such a great thing for women. Abortion has left many women emotionally and sometimes physically scarred. Campaigns such as Silent No More and Women Deserve Better are tapping into this hidden anguish.
Also evident is the effect on our society, with conflicting attitudes on how we treat not only the unborn, but also the sick, disabled and elderly. Abortion has torn marriages and families apart, and led to a hardened and increasingly violent culture.
So, we have had for the past thirty years, a culture that in some ways has grown cynical, forgoing the promise of a hopeful future for instant gratification, or more often, the resignation to unimaginative “solutions” that pit mother against child or people against the planet. One is reminded of a quote from the great Irish poet William Butler Yeats:
These Supreme Court abortion decisions were assumed to have ‘settled’ the issue in our society. Yet much to the consternation of the pro-abortion establishment, the movement of concerned citizens to protect life has only grown in strength over the past thirty years. The prolife movement has pursued multiple paths: educating the public, lobbying and litigating for change, participating in politics, and especially reaching out to help women with unplanned pregnancies. On the political front, abortion apparently played a decisive role in the 2004 Election results.
Particularly significant is that the change in public attitudes on abortion is most striking among young people (who’ve lost peers they’ve never met). This is manifested in polling results and an upsurge of prolife activism among college students, much to the consternation of their professors and, in some cases, their parents. Sort of adds a new twist to some lyrics from the sixties by Buffalo Springfield:
So the buses are starting to roll, as thousands from distant states once again journey to Washington, where many will gather in prayer the night before or the morning of the March. Then we will rally and march, knowing that those we are trying to defend would some day defend our nation, write great literature, cure disease, compose stirring music, and explore and begin to settle the Solar System.
But more than for their potential accomplishments, we speak out for them simply because of the inherent dignity of each of their lives. In so doing we are responding to a great calling as individuals and as a civilization. And we’ll continue to speak and march and work and pray, confident in the hope that, one of these years, we'll no longer face the cold winds. Instead, we’ll gather on a warm spring day to celebrate the inclusion of the youngest in the human family within the protection of the law.
This is a slightly revised and updated article I first wrote and posted last year at this time.
Today, January 22, marks the 32nd anniversary of the infamous Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton Supreme Court decisions which imposed abortion-on-demand in the United States. Once again, concerned citizens will gather on Monday for the annual March for Life, which in recent years has usually drawn more than 100,000 participants. Now, why do so many people consider it so important to take time on a weekday to come to Washington, DC at the coldest time of the year to make their voice heard on this matter?
Before I go on any further, I need to say a couple of things. First, nothing in this article is meant to condemn anyone who has had an abortion or has been involved in abortion in some way. Far from condemning those with an abortion in their past, the people in the prolife movement are about healing and forgiveness, and want it to be clear that there is hope after abortion. Post-abortion counseling can be found through many church denominations and pregnancy counseling centers.
And second, while the prolife movement consists largely of people with strong religious convictions who feel called by God to defend the defenseless, that doesn’t make the protection of human life a narrow, religious issue. The facts that the defenseless exist and that they deserve protection in the human family can be persuasively advocated by non-religiously reasoned arguments.
First, let’s start with a little scientific background (from the Science for Unborn Human Life website) about how each of us began our lives as unique human beings. A new human being is conceived when a sperm fertilizes an egg. The sperm has 23 chromosomes and so does the egg. But the fertilized egg has 46, half from each parent, and is genetically unique. These 46 chromosomes, which are fixed at conception, establish the child's sex and are a blueprint for how it will develop, both during pregnancy and after birth.
Blood vessels start to form very early, about 13-18 days after fertilization. Then, on about the 20th day - nearly the end of the third week - the foundation of the brain, the spinal cord, and the entire nervous system is established. The heart begins to beat on about the 22nd day after conception, circulating blood throughout the child. The arms begin to form on about day 26, followed by the beginnings of the legs on day 28, the same day that the mouth opens for the first time.
Both the eyes and ears are developing rapidly during the seventh week after conception. At this time, the thumbs, neck, heels of the feet and all of the fingers are also present. Taste buds begin to form during the eighth week after conception. All parts of the limbs are apparent at this time. In addition, the fingers and toes have lengthened and are completely separated.
By the end of the eighth week the overwhelming majority (several thousand) of the body's organs, structures and systems have already begun to develop. Few, if any, new structures begin to form after this time. During the remainder of the pregnancy, development consists mainly of growth and maturation of the parts of the body that are already present.
Isolated arm, leg and backward head movements begin at about 7 to 10 weeks after conception. During the ninth week, a regular pattern of breathing movements is observed, with a median frequency of about 30 breaths each hour.
These are just the highlights of how you developed during the first 2-3 months of your life. Now consider that a majority of abortions are performed during the tenth to twelfth week of gestation. Some are performed much later in the pregnancy, when the child has grown larger and any unbiased observer would recognize a baby when they see one.
So why if the evidence so clearly indicates that a unique human life begins at conception, how did the deliberate and violent destruction of that life come to be imposed as a ‘constitutional right’? Time does not permit describing the whole history of abortion or the intertwining influences of the eugenics and population control movements. Let’s start with the socially turbulent late sixties when a growing pro-abortion movement subversively exploited the legitimate aspirations of women for greater rights and participation in society.
Dr. Bernard Nathanson, former abortionist and co-founder of the pro-abortion group NARAL, has since changed his mind and heart and is now a leading prolife advocate. He points out the disinformation at the heart of the pro-abortion campaign.
- “The statistics that we gave to the American public about illegal abortions annually; the statistics we fabricated regarding the number of women dying from illegal abortions annually; all of these matters were pure fabrication and still persist to this very day.”
- “We spoke of 5,000 to 10,000 deaths a year. I confess that I knew the figures were totally false. It was a useful figure, widely accepted, so why go out of our way to correct it with honest statistics?”
- “We in NARAL were in the business of coining slogans principally for the media . . . we scattered catchy slogans for them . . . to use . . . in their stories. Slogans like “reproductive rights,” “freedom of choice,” “pro-choice.” For many years we’ve known them to be hollow and meaningless. They’re just catchy and, essentially, without substance.”
The movement made rapid progress. California, New York and a few other states passed ‘liberalized’ abortion laws (though some other states rejected them). But what embedded abortion in American law were two Supreme Court cases, Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton, pronounced on January 22, 1973. The combined effect of the two decisions was to effectively impose abortion-on-demand throughout the nine months of pregnancy. Since that time, over forty million human beings have been exterminated by abortion in the United States.
Aside from the grave issue that was decided, the finding that abortion is part of a constitutional ‘right of privacy’ is considered an overreach of judicial power even by some legal scholars who describe themselves as ‘prochoice’. The ‘reasoning’ was based on ‘penumbras’ the justices claim to have seen in the constitution.
Did you know that the two plaintiffs in the Roe and Doe cases, Norma McCorvey and Sandra Cano, have filed affidavits to the effect that they were manipulated into their roles and that the decisions should be overturned? You would think that this development would be considered unprecedented in Supreme Court history, but I guess Dan Rather, Katie Couric, the New York Times, etc. forgot to inform you.
One fact that is becoming evident that abortion-on-demand is not such a great thing for women. Abortion has left many women emotionally and sometimes physically scarred. Campaigns such as Silent No More and Women Deserve Better are tapping into this hidden anguish.
Also evident is the effect on our society, with conflicting attitudes on how we treat not only the unborn, but also the sick, disabled and elderly. Abortion has torn marriages and families apart, and led to a hardened and increasingly violent culture.
So, we have had for the past thirty years, a culture that in some ways has grown cynical, forgoing the promise of a hopeful future for instant gratification, or more often, the resignation to unimaginative “solutions” that pit mother against child or people against the planet. One is reminded of a quote from the great Irish poet William Butler Yeats:
“The blood-dimmed tide is loosed and everywhere a ceremony of innocence was drowned.”
These Supreme Court abortion decisions were assumed to have ‘settled’ the issue in our society. Yet much to the consternation of the pro-abortion establishment, the movement of concerned citizens to protect life has only grown in strength over the past thirty years. The prolife movement has pursued multiple paths: educating the public, lobbying and litigating for change, participating in politics, and especially reaching out to help women with unplanned pregnancies. On the political front, abortion apparently played a decisive role in the 2004 Election results.
Particularly significant is that the change in public attitudes on abortion is most striking among young people (who’ve lost peers they’ve never met). This is manifested in polling results and an upsurge of prolife activism among college students, much to the consternation of their professors and, in some cases, their parents. Sort of adds a new twist to some lyrics from the sixties by Buffalo Springfield:
“Young people speaking their minds, Getting so much resistance from behind.”
So the buses are starting to roll, as thousands from distant states once again journey to Washington, where many will gather in prayer the night before or the morning of the March. Then we will rally and march, knowing that those we are trying to defend would some day defend our nation, write great literature, cure disease, compose stirring music, and explore and begin to settle the Solar System.
But more than for their potential accomplishments, we speak out for them simply because of the inherent dignity of each of their lives. In so doing we are responding to a great calling as individuals and as a civilization. And we’ll continue to speak and march and work and pray, confident in the hope that, one of these years, we'll no longer face the cold winds. Instead, we’ll gather on a warm spring day to celebrate the inclusion of the youngest in the human family within the protection of the law.
More Hubble Trouble
It doesn't change my support for W, but I'm not happy with this decision by his Administration. Of course, I recognize the tight budget situation and I do want to see NASA get on with the Vision for Space Exploration. Hopefully, after Congress weighs in, some kind of creative solution will be developed.
It doesn't change my support for W, but I'm not happy with this decision by his Administration. Of course, I recognize the tight budget situation and I do want to see NASA get on with the Vision for Space Exploration. Hopefully, after Congress weighs in, some kind of creative solution will be developed.
A Week in History
I feel blessed to have been able to attend and participate in the Inaugural events in DC this week, including the swearing-in, the President's Inaugural address, the start of the parade and the Democracy Ball (one of several official inaugural balls) where I got to see President George W. & First Lady Laura Bush and the VP & Mrs. Cheney.
Friday, I joined a more informal gathering organized by the National Review Online folks at Fado's Irish Pub in DC. I saw a few old friends and got to meet some new ones, including some of the NRO staff including Jonah Goldberg, Kate O'Beirne, Ramesh Ponnuru and the ever-lively KJL.
A week of inspiration and celebration, but the nation has serious unfinished business. Today is the 32nd anniversary of the Supreme Court's imposition of abortion-on-demand in the United States, so Monday we'll gather for the March for Life.
I feel blessed to have been able to attend and participate in the Inaugural events in DC this week, including the swearing-in, the President's Inaugural address, the start of the parade and the Democracy Ball (one of several official inaugural balls) where I got to see President George W. & First Lady Laura Bush and the VP & Mrs. Cheney.
Friday, I joined a more informal gathering organized by the National Review Online folks at Fado's Irish Pub in DC. I saw a few old friends and got to meet some new ones, including some of the NRO staff including Jonah Goldberg, Kate O'Beirne, Ramesh Ponnuru and the ever-lively KJL.
A week of inspiration and celebration, but the nation has serious unfinished business. Today is the 32nd anniversary of the Supreme Court's imposition of abortion-on-demand in the United States, so Monday we'll gather for the March for Life.
Wednesday, January 19, 2005
Inauguration Day
Last night I enjoyed the Maryland Inaugural Gala, which featured state political leaders and W's sister Doro Bush Koch. Enjoyed good food and music and talking with old friends and new ones.
Time to rest up for a busy day tomorrow attending President Bush's swearing-in (I have a ticket for the standing area on the Mall) and other Inaugural events. Thanks to all who are planning and working on this Inauguration. Time to party, Yeehah!!
Last night I enjoyed the Maryland Inaugural Gala, which featured state political leaders and W's sister Doro Bush Koch. Enjoyed good food and music and talking with old friends and new ones.
Time to rest up for a busy day tomorrow attending President Bush's swearing-in (I have a ticket for the standing area on the Mall) and other Inaugural events. Thanks to all who are planning and working on this Inauguration. Time to party, Yeehah!!
Cosmic Capital
One more reason to celebrate W's second Inauguration tomorrow. Jeff Foust cites a Orlando Sentinel article in which the President stated his willingness to spend political capital on space.
One more reason to celebrate W's second Inauguration tomorrow. Jeff Foust cites a Orlando Sentinel article in which the President stated his willingness to spend political capital on space.
"The space vision met some resistance by some, but we got it fully funded," said Bush, adding that he likes the idea of going back to the moon, using it as a testing ground and then going beyond.
"I spent capital before," he said. "I'll spend it again on NASA."
Roe v. Roe
Norma McCorvey, plaintiff in the infamous Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that imposed abortion-on-demand on the United States in 1973, is petitioning the Supreme Court to rehear and overturn the decision. I don't know if there is any precedent for a plaintiff asking for reversal of such a major decision, but don't hold your breath waiting for the Old Media to tell you about this historic development.
Norma McCorvey, plaintiff in the infamous Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision that imposed abortion-on-demand on the United States in 1973, is petitioning the Supreme Court to rehear and overturn the decision. I don't know if there is any precedent for a plaintiff asking for reversal of such a major decision, but don't hold your breath waiting for the Old Media to tell you about this historic development.
Monday, January 17, 2005
Open Source Processing of Huygens Imagery
The European Space Agency (ESA) is publishing more imagery, some in color, of Titan.
Meanwhile, as the internet has broadened peoples' participation in politics and media, Keith Cowing reports that is also becoming true, at least in some cases, for participation in scientific exploration.
The European Space Agency (ESA) is publishing more imagery, some in color, of Titan.
Meanwhile, as the internet has broadened peoples' participation in politics and media, Keith Cowing reports that is also becoming true, at least in some cases, for participation in scientific exploration.
On the Dr. Martin Luther King Holiday,...
here are links to his "I Have a Dream" speech and his 'Letter from Birmingham Jail'.
here are links to his "I Have a Dream" speech and his 'Letter from Birmingham Jail'.
Friday, January 14, 2005
Landfall on an Intriguing World
Image from 16 km (10 mi) above Titan, ESA
First image from Titan's surface, ESA
This has been one of those memorable days when humanity gets its first close up look from the surface of an alien world for the first time.
The Huygens probe successfully landed on Saturn's moon Titan this morning. The probe has sent back images and other information. The European Space Agency's Huygens lander was carried to Saturn by NASA's Cassini spacecraft. The two vehicles separated three weeks ago, and today Cassini relayed the transmitted data from Huygens back to Earth.
The images suggest some kind of fluid activities on the surface. More pictures and further analysis are expected to be released soon.
Fittingly, this historic international space exploration accomplishment came on the first anniversary of President Bush's announcement of the Vision for Space Exploration.
Image from 16 km (10 mi) above Titan, ESA
First image from Titan's surface, ESA
This has been one of those memorable days when humanity gets its first close up look from the surface of an alien world for the first time.
The Huygens probe successfully landed on Saturn's moon Titan this morning. The probe has sent back images and other information. The European Space Agency's Huygens lander was carried to Saturn by NASA's Cassini spacecraft. The two vehicles separated three weeks ago, and today Cassini relayed the transmitted data from Huygens back to Earth.
The images suggest some kind of fluid activities on the surface. More pictures and further analysis are expected to be released soon.
Fittingly, this historic international space exploration accomplishment came on the first anniversary of President Bush's announcement of the Vision for Space Exploration.
Thursday, January 13, 2005
Timeline to Titan
Here's the European Space Agency's Huygens descent timeline to the surface of Saturn's moon Titan on Friday. NOTE: 'CET' is Central European Time, which is UTC (Greenwich Mean Time) + 1 hour, or six hours ahead of US Eastern Standard Time. Also the site states that the times are "Earth Received" time - i.e. 67 minutes after the actual events have taken place at the spacecraft.
Here's the European Space Agency's Huygens descent timeline to the surface of Saturn's moon Titan on Friday. NOTE: 'CET' is Central European Time, which is UTC (Greenwich Mean Time) + 1 hour, or six hours ahead of US Eastern Standard Time. Also the site states that the times are "Earth Received" time - i.e. 67 minutes after the actual events have taken place at the spacecraft.
Wednesday, January 12, 2005
Close Encounters
Deep Impact launch, NASA
Deep Impact is on its way to its July 4th fireworks encounter with Comet Temple 1. Meanwhile, the Huygens probe is closing in on Saturn's moon Titan.
Finally, check out this NBC News report on the critical role of remote sensing satellites in the tsunami relief effort.
Deep Impact launch, NASA
Deep Impact is on its way to its July 4th fireworks encounter with Comet Temple 1. Meanwhile, the Huygens probe is closing in on Saturn's moon Titan.
Finally, check out this NBC News report on the critical role of remote sensing satellites in the tsunami relief effort.
Monday, January 10, 2005
All the News That's Fit to Forge
The independent panel report (PDF) on the CBS News forged document fiasco is out. Power Line Blog was one of the leading sources to expose the scandal, and now comments on the report.
The independent panel report (PDF) on the CBS News forged document fiasco is out. Power Line Blog was one of the leading sources to expose the scandal, and now comments on the report.
Sunday, January 09, 2005
A Year with Spirit
The Mars Rovers reach their first anniversary on Mars. Friday, I had the pleasure to see Principle Investigator Steve Squyres summarize the past year's adventures, with plenty of images, at Goddard Space Flight Center.
The Mars Rovers reach their first anniversary on Mars. Friday, I had the pleasure to see Principle Investigator Steve Squyres summarize the past year's adventures, with plenty of images, at Goddard Space Flight Center.
Friday, December 31, 2004
The Turn of the Year
The end of a year is always a time to look back on its impact on the world. This year is ending with the immense tsunami tragedy in the Indian Ocean region.
The 2004 elections may be remembered as a 'tipping point' where citizens were engaged and energized to fight hard for both sides, but with President Bush winning re-election to the White House and conservative Republicans increasing their margins in Congress. While no person or party has a monopoly on virtue or ideas, we have hopefully moved a little closer to restoring authentic constitutional law and to protecting human life at all stages.
W began the year by announcing a new Vision for Space Exploration while NASA probes brought exciting new images and information from Mars, Saturn and elsewhere. But it was the exciting breakthrough in the private sector with the flights of SpaceShipOne and the winning of the Ansari X-Prize which will make the Vision more likely to succeed and live up to its full potential for humanity.
Finally, ABC News has made its choice for the 'People of the Year' who've influenced events: Bloggers.
On to 2005! Happy New Year!
The end of a year is always a time to look back on its impact on the world. This year is ending with the immense tsunami tragedy in the Indian Ocean region.
The 2004 elections may be remembered as a 'tipping point' where citizens were engaged and energized to fight hard for both sides, but with President Bush winning re-election to the White House and conservative Republicans increasing their margins in Congress. While no person or party has a monopoly on virtue or ideas, we have hopefully moved a little closer to restoring authentic constitutional law and to protecting human life at all stages.
W began the year by announcing a new Vision for Space Exploration while NASA probes brought exciting new images and information from Mars, Saturn and elsewhere. But it was the exciting breakthrough in the private sector with the flights of SpaceShipOne and the winning of the Ansari X-Prize which will make the Vision more likely to succeed and live up to its full potential for humanity.
Finally, ABC News has made its choice for the 'People of the Year' who've influenced events: Bloggers.
On to 2005! Happy New Year!
Thursday, December 23, 2004
Have a Holy and Merry Christmas!
In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus
that the whole world should be enrolled.
This was the first enrollment,
when Quirinius was governor of Syria.
So all went to be enrolled, each to his own town.
And Joseph too went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth
to Judea, to the city of David that is called Bethlehem,
because he was of the house and family of David,
to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child.
While they were there,
the time came for her to have her child,
and she gave birth to her firstborn son.
She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger,
because there was no room for them in the inn.
Now there were shepherds in that region living in the fields
and keeping the night watch over their flock.
The angel of the Lord appeared to them
and the glory of the Lord shone around them,
and they were struck with great fear.
The angel said to them,
"Do not be afraid;
for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy
that will be for all the people.
For today in the city of David
a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord.
And this will be a sign for you:
you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes
and lying in a manger."
And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel,
praising God and saying:
"Glory to God in the highest
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests."
Luke 2:1-14
In those days a decree went out from Caesar Augustus
that the whole world should be enrolled.
This was the first enrollment,
when Quirinius was governor of Syria.
So all went to be enrolled, each to his own town.
And Joseph too went up from Galilee from the town of Nazareth
to Judea, to the city of David that is called Bethlehem,
because he was of the house and family of David,
to be enrolled with Mary, his betrothed, who was with child.
While they were there,
the time came for her to have her child,
and she gave birth to her firstborn son.
She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger,
because there was no room for them in the inn.
Now there were shepherds in that region living in the fields
and keeping the night watch over their flock.
The angel of the Lord appeared to them
and the glory of the Lord shone around them,
and they were struck with great fear.
The angel said to them,
"Do not be afraid;
for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy
that will be for all the people.
For today in the city of David
a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord.
And this will be a sign for you:
you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes
and lying in a manger."
And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel,
praising God and saying:
"Glory to God in the highest
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests."
Luke 2:1-14
Christmas in the Heavens
The International Space Station crew eagerly awaits the arrival of much needed food and supplies. Meanwhile, the Huygens probe is set to separate from the Cassini spacecraft. Landfall on Titan is set for January 14.
The International Space Station crew eagerly awaits the arrival of much needed food and supplies. Meanwhile, the Huygens probe is set to separate from the Cassini spacecraft. Landfall on Titan is set for January 14.
Why This Election Mattered
W resumes the fight to put some good people on the federal courts. Only going to cause the pro-abortion lobby more conniptions, while they are already howling and shrieking over the potential of a prolife DNC chairman.
W resumes the fight to put some good people on the federal courts. Only going to cause the pro-abortion lobby more conniptions, while they are already howling and shrieking over the potential of a prolife DNC chairman.
Wednesday, December 15, 2004
No Longer Partying like it's 1992?
There are signs that some Democratic Party leaders may be starting to come to their senses about their Party's obsessively pro-abortion position and its contribution to their continuing political setbacks. Check out the stories here and here.
Of course it remains to be seen whether any moderating of the Party's position will be substantive or mere window-dressing. Never-the-less, these hints are already stirring a pit in the stomachs of leading pro-abortion activists.
There are signs that some Democratic Party leaders may be starting to come to their senses about their Party's obsessively pro-abortion position and its contribution to their continuing political setbacks. Check out the stories here and here.
Of course it remains to be seen whether any moderating of the Party's position will be substantive or mere window-dressing. Never-the-less, these hints are already stirring a pit in the stomachs of leading pro-abortion activists.
However, leading abortion advocates are chagrined by these events and blame Kerry, who refused to support even a modest ban on partial-birth abortion or not using tax dollars to pay for them, for not doing enough to tout his pro-abortion views during the campaign.
Planned Parenthood president Gloria Feldt told Newsweek that Kerry "did not help the cause."
.....................................
"If we try to be fake Republicans, that's not going to work," Colorado Rep. Diana DeGette, co-chair of the House pro-abortion caucus, told Newsweek. "It would be a cynical political move."
Sunday, December 12, 2004
Happy Feast Day!
Author Charlotte Allen discusses the meaning of today's Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
Author Charlotte Allen discusses the meaning of today's Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe.
An image is a way of capturing the Incarnation -- God becoming man, in the flesh. God's image can be shown, and that image has power. Our Lady of Guadalupe is powerful because the Blessed Virgin Mary made her own image, her own incarnation.
Hanukkah and Our Attitude about the Future
(This is a post I originally made last year and feel is worth repeating, especially in light of developments this year that could lead to human expansion into space that would provide resources for future generations.)
Rabbi Daniel Lapin has a provocative column in WorldNetDaily on a message of Hanukkah that is relevant to people of all faiths. He shows examples, ancient and modern, of how a pessimistic Malthusian worldview have been repeatedly disproved by the Creator's providence of material resources and the ingenuity to utilize them to provide for the future. Rabbi Lapin says:
(This is a post I originally made last year and feel is worth repeating, especially in light of developments this year that could lead to human expansion into space that would provide resources for future generations.)
Rabbi Daniel Lapin has a provocative column in WorldNetDaily on a message of Hanukkah that is relevant to people of all faiths. He shows examples, ancient and modern, of how a pessimistic Malthusian worldview have been repeatedly disproved by the Creator's providence of material resources and the ingenuity to utilize them to provide for the future. Rabbi Lapin says:
It only seemed that we lacked sufficient copper, whale oil or wood. In reality, our God-given ingenuity developed exciting new technology that eliminated our need for each commodity just as it was becoming scarce.
Hanukkah's miracle was that, day after day, the Temple's menorah just kept on burning in spite of an apparent shortage of fuel - a metaphor, surely, for all apparent shortages that can be overcome with faith. Hanukkah invites us all to express gratitude to the Creator whose beneficence is boundless. It stimulates discussions that can spur our spiritual growth. It reminds us that with His gift of creativity, challenges become optimistic opportunities to partner with God in creatively solving all material shortage.
Saturday, December 11, 2004
Not so embryonic stem cells?
Two proposals to develop embryonic-like stem cells supposedly without destroying human embryos are receiving careful scrutiny by those working to protect human life. Ramesh Ponnuru of National Review describes and offers a cautious endorsement of the two procedures in his articles(Part 1 and Part 2) at Tech Central Station.
I do support the careful approach the researchers appear to be taking, working with animal cells until proving that there is no live embryo destruction. What I wonder is, even if the procedures pass the ethical test, whether the products avoid the uncontrollable factors currently plaguing embryonic stem cell research and match the gains being made in adult stem cell research.
Two proposals to develop embryonic-like stem cells supposedly without destroying human embryos are receiving careful scrutiny by those working to protect human life. Ramesh Ponnuru of National Review describes and offers a cautious endorsement of the two procedures in his articles(Part 1 and Part 2) at Tech Central Station.
I do support the careful approach the researchers appear to be taking, working with animal cells until proving that there is no live embryo destruction. What I wonder is, even if the procedures pass the ethical test, whether the products avoid the uncontrollable factors currently plaguing embryonic stem cell research and match the gains being made in adult stem cell research.
Commercial Space Legislative Victory
After several near-death experiences, the Commercial Space Launch Amendments Act of 2004 (H.R. 5382)was passed by the Senate on Wednesday evening shortly before adjournment. Jeff Foust provides some more background on how close the fate of the bill was. The Space Frontier Foundation has issued a press release praising the bill's passage.
After several near-death experiences, the Commercial Space Launch Amendments Act of 2004 (H.R. 5382)was passed by the Senate on Wednesday evening shortly before adjournment. Jeff Foust provides some more background on how close the fate of the bill was. The Space Frontier Foundation has issued a press release praising the bill's passage.
Friday, December 03, 2004
'Blog' is the Word.
Merriam-Webster has announced the list of top ten words looked up in their on-line dictionary, with the most often researched word for 2004 being 'blog'. Now, if only Blogger will add the word to be recognized by its spell-checker.
Merriam-Webster has announced the list of top ten words looked up in their on-line dictionary, with the most often researched word for 2004 being 'blog'. Now, if only Blogger will add the word to be recognized by its spell-checker.
Tuesday, November 30, 2004
Advent Calendar & Info
Sunday was the first Sunday of Advent, officially starting the season of spiritual preparation for Christmas. Go to this link for an Advent calendar and other related information.
Sunday was the first Sunday of Advent, officially starting the season of spiritual preparation for Christmas. Go to this link for an Advent calendar and other related information.
Wednesday, November 24, 2004
Sunday, November 21, 2004
Space Happenings
It's been a busy week of space developments, including Europe's SMART-1 arriving in lunar orbit, the successful X43A scramjet test and the launch of the 'Swift' gamma ray burst observatory.
Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, Congress has provided NASA with funding almost matching the President's request, affirming the long term exploration goals. Also, the House has passed a re-incarnated Commercial Space Launch Amendments Act of 2004. Senate action is still required.
Finally, the Old Media sources sometimes do get it right, as with Time Magazine's plan to designate SpaceShipOne as 'Invention of the Year'.
It's been a busy week of space developments, including Europe's SMART-1 arriving in lunar orbit, the successful X43A scramjet test and the launch of the 'Swift' gamma ray burst observatory.
Meanwhile, on Capitol Hill, Congress has provided NASA with funding almost matching the President's request, affirming the long term exploration goals. Also, the House has passed a re-incarnated Commercial Space Launch Amendments Act of 2004. Senate action is still required.
Finally, the Old Media sources sometimes do get it right, as with Time Magazine's plan to designate SpaceShipOne as 'Invention of the Year'.
The Specter Saga
Republican members of the Senate Judiciary Committee seem ready to support Senator Arlen Specter as Judiciary Committee Chairman, despite vigorous opposition from conservatives. I have been reminded, however, that the formal vote won't take place until January, which means it is possible a sustained grassroots campaign and/or another misstatement by Senator Specter could cause the current likely succession to unravel.
Senator Specter is a pro-abortion advocate who opposed President Reagan's nomination of Robert Bork for the Supreme Court, although he did support the Clarence Thomas nomination and opposed Democrat filibusters of President Bush's recent nominees.
It is hard to say at this point whether Senator Specter will remain faithful to his pledge to bring the Preident's future nominees to the floor. However, it shows how much the ground has shifted on the abortion issue that Specter, at least publicly, now refers to 'prolife' nominees. Back in the Nineties, Specter used inflammatory language such as 'anti-choice' and 'intolerant right' in his 1996 announcement of an unsuccessful presidential bid. The fact that a pro-abortion advocate feels compelled to make this shift in language is encouraging indeed.
Republican members of the Senate Judiciary Committee seem ready to support Senator Arlen Specter as Judiciary Committee Chairman, despite vigorous opposition from conservatives. I have been reminded, however, that the formal vote won't take place until January, which means it is possible a sustained grassroots campaign and/or another misstatement by Senator Specter could cause the current likely succession to unravel.
Senator Specter is a pro-abortion advocate who opposed President Reagan's nomination of Robert Bork for the Supreme Court, although he did support the Clarence Thomas nomination and opposed Democrat filibusters of President Bush's recent nominees.
It is hard to say at this point whether Senator Specter will remain faithful to his pledge to bring the Preident's future nominees to the floor. However, it shows how much the ground has shifted on the abortion issue that Specter, at least publicly, now refers to 'prolife' nominees. Back in the Nineties, Specter used inflammatory language such as 'anti-choice' and 'intolerant right' in his 1996 announcement of an unsuccessful presidential bid. The fact that a pro-abortion advocate feels compelled to make this shift in language is encouraging indeed.
Saturday, November 13, 2004
"...a new and more creative future"
Michael Novak describes the US Election outcome's impact far from home.
Michael Novak describes the US Election outcome's impact far from home.
What I conclude after this visit, more powerfully than ever, is that important new currents so visible in the victory of George W. Bush are also beginning to affect very distant places, and that great spiritual changes are beginning to display their first sprouts: a profoundly new vision of our own secular history, more open to religion than formerly; a new attention to the family and to the traditional morality on which its health depends; and a rethinking of fundamental economic principles concerning taxation, state power, and welfare programs. The notion is also gaining traction that the ideas of the Left belong to the 1950s, if not earlier, while those of Bush and others like him point to a new and more creative future.
Sunday, November 07, 2004
The Real Loser
Not only did the Democratic Party lose big in this election, but in her always eloquent way, Peggy Noonan points out the self-inflicted loss suffered by the Old Media:
Glenn Reynolds also weighs in on the declining influence of the Old Media:
Not only did the Democratic Party lose big in this election, but in her always eloquent way, Peggy Noonan points out the self-inflicted loss suffered by the Old Media:
Every time the big networks and big broadsheet national newspapers tried to pull off a bit of pro-liberal mischief--CBS and the fabricated Bush National Guard documents, the New York Times and bombgate, CBS's "60 Minutes" attempting to coordinate the breaking of bombgate on the Sunday before the election--the yeomen of the blogosphere and AM radio and the Internet took them down. It was to me a great historical development in the history of politics in America. It was Agincourt. It was the yeomen of King Harry taking down the French aristocracy with new technology and rough guts. God bless the pajama-clad yeomen of America.
Glenn Reynolds also weighs in on the declining influence of the Old Media:
What the Big Media have lost is the ability to make people dismiss out of hand ideas that haven't been vetted by the Powers That Be. They've lost the ability to set the agenda in both a positive and a negative sense, to decide which ideas, and which stories, are on the table, and which are not.
Haunting Specter
Conservatives concerned about the role Senator Arlen Specter would play as Judiciary Committee Chairman on judicial nominations are campaigning on the Internet to urge the Republican Senators to select another choice. See continuing updates on this effort also at The Corner.
Conservatives concerned about the role Senator Arlen Specter would play as Judiciary Committee Chairman on judicial nominations are campaigning on the Internet to urge the Republican Senators to select another choice. See continuing updates on this effort also at The Corner.
Catching Up on Life after Politics
Time to clean house and get other things done. Also time to catch up on what else has been going on in the Solar System, for instance the exploration by the Mars Rovers and the Cassini-Huygens craft orbiting Saturn.
Time to clean house and get other things done. Also time to catch up on what else has been going on in the Solar System, for instance the exploration by the Mars Rovers and the Cassini-Huygens craft orbiting Saturn.
Wednesday, November 03, 2004
On to the Future
With a gracious concession speech by John Kerry, a magnanimous victory speech by George W. Bush and significant changes in Congress, the hard fought 2004 election campaign is over. A few quick thoughts:
-Many citizens on both sides became active and poured their hearts into this campaign and a record number of voters turned out. If this energy is sustained and channeled constructively, the nation will benefit immensely.
-The immense amount of vitriol directed toward President Bush by some in the Democratic Party and other interest groups (MoveOn.org, entertainment celebreties, etc.) was not rewarded with success, but with rejection. This outcome is also healthy for the nation.
-Terrorists and tyrants around the world are dealing with the prospect of facing W's courageous leadership in the world for the coming years.
-The ascendancy of 'Lifestyle Choice uber alles' is over. The prominence of life issues, the status of marriage and other social issues should cause the Democratic Party to rethink its blind obedience to Planned Parenthood's and NARAL's hardline pro-abortion agenda. The party could start by being open to a significant part of its own members who have been excluded from leadership in the Party.
-The blatant bias and manipulation of information by parts of the Old Media (NY Times, CBS, etc.), and the resulting role played by the New/Alt Media (bloggers, talk radio, Fox News etc.) will be a continuing story well beyond this election year.
-W's re-election and the Republican gains in Congress open the door to significant economic initiatives including fundamental reform of the tax system, litigation reform, etc.
-The Vision for Space Exploration will go forward. This doesn't mean the Administration and Congress will give NASA a blank check. The need to control federal spending will spur an emphasis on innovation and commercial solutions where-ever practical which will only enhance the opening of the frontier.
With a gracious concession speech by John Kerry, a magnanimous victory speech by George W. Bush and significant changes in Congress, the hard fought 2004 election campaign is over. A few quick thoughts:
-Many citizens on both sides became active and poured their hearts into this campaign and a record number of voters turned out. If this energy is sustained and channeled constructively, the nation will benefit immensely.
-The immense amount of vitriol directed toward President Bush by some in the Democratic Party and other interest groups (MoveOn.org, entertainment celebreties, etc.) was not rewarded with success, but with rejection. This outcome is also healthy for the nation.
-Terrorists and tyrants around the world are dealing with the prospect of facing W's courageous leadership in the world for the coming years.
-The ascendancy of 'Lifestyle Choice uber alles' is over. The prominence of life issues, the status of marriage and other social issues should cause the Democratic Party to rethink its blind obedience to Planned Parenthood's and NARAL's hardline pro-abortion agenda. The party could start by being open to a significant part of its own members who have been excluded from leadership in the Party.
-The blatant bias and manipulation of information by parts of the Old Media (NY Times, CBS, etc.), and the resulting role played by the New/Alt Media (bloggers, talk radio, Fox News etc.) will be a continuing story well beyond this election year.
-W's re-election and the Republican gains in Congress open the door to significant economic initiatives including fundamental reform of the tax system, litigation reform, etc.
-The Vision for Space Exploration will go forward. This doesn't mean the Administration and Congress will give NASA a blank check. The need to control federal spending will spur an emphasis on innovation and commercial solutions where-ever practical which will only enhance the opening of the frontier.
Monday, November 01, 2004
Decision Time
I've been busy the last few days with my discretionary time, with precinct calling, county campaign activities and a little volunteer time in DC with National Right to Life and the RNC to help influence the swing states. Tonight I'll be working some final details and resting up for a busy day tomorrow at my precinct polling place, so I'll keep my endorsement (which should already be obvious) short and sweet.
I'm supporting the re-election of George W. Bush because of his positive record and proposals on the interconnecting themes of a Culture of Life, National Security and the War on Terrorism, economic opportunity, the Vision for Space Exploration, etc. His opponent, Senator John Kerry offers vague and contradictory statements ('Flip-Flop') and a Senate record of bad choices on a range of issues.
Beyond the issues, defying the irrational vitriol and outright hatred against the President for his persistence in making and sticking with courageous decisions that often defy the conventional 'wisdom' is a significant reason in itself to vote for his re-election. The fact that some people despise George W. Bush for his strong Faith in God is shows that they fear the power he gains from it.
So get out there and vote for W and encourage others to do likewise. And pray that God take care of our nation, its leaders and its people.
I've been busy the last few days with my discretionary time, with precinct calling, county campaign activities and a little volunteer time in DC with National Right to Life and the RNC to help influence the swing states. Tonight I'll be working some final details and resting up for a busy day tomorrow at my precinct polling place, so I'll keep my endorsement (which should already be obvious) short and sweet.
I'm supporting the re-election of George W. Bush because of his positive record and proposals on the interconnecting themes of a Culture of Life, National Security and the War on Terrorism, economic opportunity, the Vision for Space Exploration, etc. His opponent, Senator John Kerry offers vague and contradictory statements ('Flip-Flop') and a Senate record of bad choices on a range of issues.
Beyond the issues, defying the irrational vitriol and outright hatred against the President for his persistence in making and sticking with courageous decisions that often defy the conventional 'wisdom' is a significant reason in itself to vote for his re-election. The fact that some people despise George W. Bush for his strong Faith in God is shows that they fear the power he gains from it.
So get out there and vote for W and encourage others to do likewise. And pray that God take care of our nation, its leaders and its people.
Friday, October 29, 2004
Closing on the Finish, and things only get stranger...
...(and perhaps more ominous). Recent days have been filled with reports and clashing statements about voter fraud and/or intimidation and the when-and-whereabouts of explosives in Iraq. Now, the one person most hostile to our country and the civilized world weighs in (from Drudge archive snapshot).
...(and perhaps more ominous). Recent days have been filled with reports and clashing statements about voter fraud and/or intimidation and the when-and-whereabouts of explosives in Iraq. Now, the one person most hostile to our country and the civilized world weighs in (from Drudge archive snapshot).
Wednesday, October 27, 2004
Celestial Happenings
False color ultraviolet and infrared image of Titan NASA
With my obvious focus on politics right now, it's sometimes difficult to keep up on all the space news. But I don't want to overlook Cassini's close approach to Saturn's moon Titan. Also, don't forget tonight's total lunar eclipse.
False color ultraviolet and infrared image of Titan NASA
With my obvious focus on politics right now, it's sometimes difficult to keep up on all the space news. But I don't want to overlook Cassini's close approach to Saturn's moon Titan. Also, don't forget tonight's total lunar eclipse.
Sunday, October 24, 2004
Election Intensity
Blogging's been more sporadic as I've been working at the precinct level and in other ways for W's re-election and the election of other good people.
Meanwhile, surprise , surprise, the Washington Post has endorsed John Kerry.While the Post does attempt to list strengths and weaknesses of both candidates, the endorsement seems to be based on an overly expansive assessment of President Bush's shortcomings and wishful thinking on Senator Kerry's promises. Interestingly, the Post also published today, an article by Bob Woodward on 22 questions he'd like to ask John Kerry on Iraq (but which the Senator has not gotten around to answering).
Finally, if your stomach and your blood pressure will allow you to continue to follow the seemingly wild gyrations in polls and prognostications, a few good sources include RealClearPolitics, National Review Online's Battlegrounders and NewsMax.
Blogging's been more sporadic as I've been working at the precinct level and in other ways for W's re-election and the election of other good people.
Meanwhile, surprise , surprise, the Washington Post has endorsed John Kerry.While the Post does attempt to list strengths and weaknesses of both candidates, the endorsement seems to be based on an overly expansive assessment of President Bush's shortcomings and wishful thinking on Senator Kerry's promises. Interestingly, the Post also published today, an article by Bob Woodward on 22 questions he'd like to ask John Kerry on Iraq (but which the Senator has not gotten around to answering).
Finally, if your stomach and your blood pressure will allow you to continue to follow the seemingly wild gyrations in polls and prognostications, a few good sources include RealClearPolitics, National Review Online's Battlegrounders and NewsMax.
Terri Schindler-Schiavo still in danger
Rulings by the Florida State Supreme Court and a local judge go against the fight for Terri's life. Furthers actions to save her life could include an appeal by Florida Governor Jeb Bush to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Rulings by the Florida State Supreme Court and a local judge go against the fight for Terri's life. Furthers actions to save her life could include an appeal by Florida Governor Jeb Bush to the U.S. Supreme Court.
Sunday, October 17, 2004
The times, they are a changin'.
Time magazine poll gives W slight edge, and reports that a majority of Americans are prolife.
Time magazine poll gives W slight edge, and reports that a majority of Americans are prolife.
Dems advocate pre-emptive war...
..., not against terrorists and tyrants, but against their political opponents at home, according to the Drudge Report on Thursday.
..., not against terrorists and tyrants, but against their political opponents at home, according to the Drudge Report on Thursday.
ISS crew handover is underway...
...following some tense moments during the docking sequence of the Soyuz spacecraft carrying the new crew to the station.
...following some tense moments during the docking sequence of the Soyuz spacecraft carrying the new crew to the station.
Saturday, October 16, 2004
The Great Space Debate
Thursday, the morning after the final presidential debate between President Bush and Senator Kerry, I attended a forum where two prominent members of the space community in DC spoke for their respective candidates on the topic of space policy (which, not surprisingly, was not discussed during any of the candidates' debates). More details from Jeff Foust and Keith Cowing.
Thursday, the morning after the final presidential debate between President Bush and Senator Kerry, I attended a forum where two prominent members of the space community in DC spoke for their respective candidates on the topic of space policy (which, not surprisingly, was not discussed during any of the candidates' debates). More details from Jeff Foust and Keith Cowing.
Monday, October 11, 2004
Space Frontier Conference Trip
Returned Sunday evening from Space Frontier Conference 13 in Long Beach, CA. The conference covered activities and plans in cutting edge entrepreneurial space ventures. Philosophical and spiritual aspects of the space settlement vision were also discussed.
Noteworthy topics include the volatile status of the Commercial Space Launch Amendments Act of 2004, designed to smooth the regulatory environment for the suborbital spaceflight industry. Congress has just recessed until after the November elections, but is expected to return for a 'lameduck' session. Stay tuned to space news sources such as HobbySpace RLV News for developments and citizen action items.
The now historic Ansari X-Prize is planned to be followed up by an exciting X-Prize Cup tournament to be held yearly in New Mexico, according to Bill Gaubatz, representing New Mexico's state space business efforts.
The highlight of the conference at Saturday night's banquet was Scaled Composite's Burt Rutan, famed designer of SpaceShipOne which claimed the X-Prize last Monday. Mr. Rutan received the Space Frontier Foundation's coveted Vision to Reality award on behalf of the SpaceShipOne team, and generously spent nearly 2 hours explaining the project, showing videos and answering questions.
The conference venue was the majestic Queen Mary. The ship which now serves as a hotel, conference center and tourist attraction has a proud history both as a civilian luxury liner and as a troop transport on which many thousands of Allied troops, including my father, sailed on during their service in World War II.
Returned Sunday evening from Space Frontier Conference 13 in Long Beach, CA. The conference covered activities and plans in cutting edge entrepreneurial space ventures. Philosophical and spiritual aspects of the space settlement vision were also discussed.
Noteworthy topics include the volatile status of the Commercial Space Launch Amendments Act of 2004, designed to smooth the regulatory environment for the suborbital spaceflight industry. Congress has just recessed until after the November elections, but is expected to return for a 'lameduck' session. Stay tuned to space news sources such as HobbySpace RLV News for developments and citizen action items.
The now historic Ansari X-Prize is planned to be followed up by an exciting X-Prize Cup tournament to be held yearly in New Mexico, according to Bill Gaubatz, representing New Mexico's state space business efforts.
The highlight of the conference at Saturday night's banquet was Scaled Composite's Burt Rutan, famed designer of SpaceShipOne which claimed the X-Prize last Monday. Mr. Rutan received the Space Frontier Foundation's coveted Vision to Reality award on behalf of the SpaceShipOne team, and generously spent nearly 2 hours explaining the project, showing videos and answering questions.
The conference venue was the majestic Queen Mary. The ship which now serves as a hotel, conference center and tourist attraction has a proud history both as a civilian luxury liner and as a troop transport on which many thousands of Allied troops, including my father, sailed on during their service in World War II.
Monday, October 04, 2004
The Prize is Won!
Forty seven years to the day after Sputnik 1 signaled the dawn of the Space Age, a new kind of space age is underway. SpaceShipOne, with test pilot, now astronaut Brian Binnie at the controls, soared past the 100 km (~62 mi) required altitude for the second time in five days and claimed the $10 million Ansari X-Prize.
Ansari X-Prize, via Space.com
SpaceShipOne rockets into space...
Ansari X-Prize, via Space.com
...and returns safely to Earth (accompanied by chase plane) to claim the X-Prize.
The prize-winning flights are seen as heralding a new age of commercial space travel opening space to many beyond the traditional government astronauts and opening the resources of space to the benefit of present and future generations of people. Read more detail in additional articles from New Scientist and SpaceflightNow.
While the prize will be formally provided to the SpaceShipOne team in early November, designer Burt Rutan will accept an award on the team's behalf this coming Saturday evening at the annual conference of the Space Frontier Foundation on the Queen Mary in Long Beach, CA.
Forty seven years to the day after Sputnik 1 signaled the dawn of the Space Age, a new kind of space age is underway. SpaceShipOne, with test pilot, now astronaut Brian Binnie at the controls, soared past the 100 km (~62 mi) required altitude for the second time in five days and claimed the $10 million Ansari X-Prize.
Ansari X-Prize, via Space.com
SpaceShipOne rockets into space...
Ansari X-Prize, via Space.com
...and returns safely to Earth (accompanied by chase plane) to claim the X-Prize.
The prize-winning flights are seen as heralding a new age of commercial space travel opening space to many beyond the traditional government astronauts and opening the resources of space to the benefit of present and future generations of people. Read more detail in additional articles from New Scientist and SpaceflightNow.
While the prize will be formally provided to the SpaceShipOne team in early November, designer Burt Rutan will accept an award on the team's behalf this coming Saturday evening at the annual conference of the Space Frontier Foundation on the Queen Mary in Long Beach, CA.
Why This Election Matters II
So you thought the 'lack of' WMDs or Saddam Hussein's relation to terrorists is a settled issue? Take a look at this article.
So you thought the 'lack of' WMDs or Saddam Hussein's relation to terrorists is a settled issue? Take a look at this article.
The senior government official and source of the Iraqi intelligence memos, explained that the reason the documents had not been made public before now was that the government has "thousands and thousands of documents waiting to be translated.
"It is unlikely they even know this exists," the source added.
Why This Election Matters I
U.S. Supreme Court turns down an appeal of an outrageous California State Supreme Court ruling infringing on religious liberty and conscientious objection. The President nominates candidates for Supreme Court and Federal judicial seats and your U.S. Senators vote them up or down. Remember on November 2.
U.S. Supreme Court turns down an appeal of an outrageous California State Supreme Court ruling infringing on religious liberty and conscientious objection. The President nominates candidates for Supreme Court and Federal judicial seats and your U.S. Senators vote them up or down. Remember on November 2.
Sunday, October 03, 2004
Don't believe it.
Much of the Old Media has been trumpeting a Newsweek poll showing John Kerry gaining a narrow lead over W since Thursday night's debate as if it were the revelation of the Ten Commandments on Mt. Sinai. However, a Power Line Blog article describes how the sampling changed between the previous Newsweek poll and this one.
Now I don't know what ratio of Republicans to Democrats is a most accurate sample of the nation. However, it is obvious that if you change the ratio by as much as was done between these two polls, you are going to show an apparent Kerry 'surge' regardless of the debate outcome or any other circumstance in the real world.
UPDATE: Also, check out the intriguing clip of video linked from this Drudge article on John Kerry's actions during the debate.
Much of the Old Media has been trumpeting a Newsweek poll showing John Kerry gaining a narrow lead over W since Thursday night's debate as if it were the revelation of the Ten Commandments on Mt. Sinai. However, a Power Line Blog article describes how the sampling changed between the previous Newsweek poll and this one.
UPDATE: Reader Meg Kreikemeier points out that according to RealClearPolitics, Newsweek's most recent poll included 345 Republicans, 364 Democrats and 278 independents. This compares to Newsweek's published data for their most recent prior poll, which showed President Bush with a comfortable lead: 391 Republicans, 300 Democrats and 270 independents. Yes, if you drop 46 Republicans and add 64 Democrats, you will get considerably better results for the Democratic nominee. This is a good reminder of why poll data always need to be taken with a grain of salt, especially until you see the underlying data.
Now I don't know what ratio of Republicans to Democrats is a most accurate sample of the nation. However, it is obvious that if you change the ratio by as much as was done between these two polls, you are going to show an apparent Kerry 'surge' regardless of the debate outcome or any other circumstance in the real world.
UPDATE: Also, check out the intriguing clip of video linked from this Drudge article on John Kerry's actions during the debate.
Saturday, October 02, 2004
Saint Therese of Lisieux
Today I saw the beautiful and compelling movie about Saint Therese. The movie about this special saint describes how she grew up in a loving family and grew in her love of Jesus. It is for everyone from the most pious believer to the most curious skeptic.
I saw the movie in Columbia at the only theater showing it in the Baltimore/Washington area. It is being shown in a very limited number of theaters nationwide. If you want to see a really great film and encourage the making of more like it, check out where it is playing in your area by clicking on the above link, enter the site and click on the 'Showing the Miracle' link and scroll down to the nearest metropolitan area to you.
Today I saw the beautiful and compelling movie about Saint Therese. The movie about this special saint describes how she grew up in a loving family and grew in her love of Jesus. It is for everyone from the most pious believer to the most curious skeptic.
I saw the movie in Columbia at the only theater showing it in the Baltimore/Washington area. It is being shown in a very limited number of theaters nationwide. If you want to see a really great film and encourage the making of more like it, check out where it is playing in your area by clicking on the above link, enter the site and click on the 'Showing the Miracle' link and scroll down to the nearest metropolitan area to you.
Friday, October 01, 2004
Bloggers Defending Terri
Earl Appleby at Times Against Humanity has posted comments and links from a number of bloggers, including this one, in response to the Florida Supreme Court decision that once again puts Terri Schindler-Schiavo's life in danger.
Earl Appleby at Times Against Humanity has posted comments and links from a number of bloggers, including this one, in response to the Florida Supreme Court decision that once again puts Terri Schindler-Schiavo's life in danger.
Debate Fallout
A theme running through many thoughtful commentaries on last night's debate is that John Kerry was probably quicker on style, while W held his own and prevailed on substance. John Kerry had the most to gain from the debate and was more coherent than in other recent appearances. He managed to avoid debating himself, at least until he expressed support for pre-emptive action to defend the country with the condition of meeting an unspecified 'global test', a phrase that will come back to haunt him.
For a variety of opinions on the debate and ongoing political developments and poll results, check out RealClearPolitics.
A theme running through many thoughtful commentaries on last night's debate is that John Kerry was probably quicker on style, while W held his own and prevailed on substance. John Kerry had the most to gain from the debate and was more coherent than in other recent appearances. He managed to avoid debating himself, at least until he expressed support for pre-emptive action to defend the country with the condition of meeting an unspecified 'global test', a phrase that will come back to haunt him.
For a variety of opinions on the debate and ongoing political developments and poll results, check out RealClearPolitics.
Wednesday, September 29, 2004
SpaceShipOne Up, One to Go
NASA TV, link via Spaceflight Now
Test Pilot Mike Melvill flew Scaled Composite's SpaceShipOne to a qualifying altitude for the Ansari X-Prize and returned safely to Earth. (Links to Space.com article and New Scientist article) A repeat performance required to win the prize is tentatively scheduled for Monday. A firm date may be announced tomorrow after further analysis of the unplanned roll during the craft's engine burn.
NASA TV, link via Spaceflight Now
Test Pilot Mike Melvill flew Scaled Composite's SpaceShipOne to a qualifying altitude for the Ansari X-Prize and returned safely to Earth. (Links to Space.com article and New Scientist article) A repeat performance required to win the prize is tentatively scheduled for Monday. A firm date may be announced tomorrow after further analysis of the unplanned roll during the craft's engine burn.
Pre-Election Bash
Went to a fun event in DC tonight to benefit a timely and critical cause, the Susan B. Anthony List, which is working to elect more prolife members of the House and Senate.
Went to a fun event in DC tonight to benefit a timely and critical cause, the Susan B. Anthony List, which is working to elect more prolife members of the House and Senate.
Monday, September 27, 2004
The Revolution Gains Momentum
Scaled Composite's SpaceShipOne is set for it's Wednesday first qualifying flight for the Ansari X-Prize, while the Canadian da Vinci Project has delayed its launch attempt.
Meanwhile, Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic has struck a deal to use SpaceShipOne technology to begin commercial suborbital flights in 2007. Not to be outdone, Bigelow Aerospace, developer of inflatable space habitats, is offering a $50 million prize for a transportation system to serve its orbital assets.
Scaled Composite's SpaceShipOne is set for it's Wednesday first qualifying flight for the Ansari X-Prize, while the Canadian da Vinci Project has delayed its launch attempt.
Meanwhile, Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic has struck a deal to use SpaceShipOne technology to begin commercial suborbital flights in 2007. Not to be outdone, Bigelow Aerospace, developer of inflatable space habitats, is offering a $50 million prize for a transportation system to serve its orbital assets.
Saturday, September 25, 2004
Florida Supreme Court rules against Terri's Law
The Florida Supreme Court ruled that the law violated the Florida Constitution's separation of powers. While the basis for the ruling may be technically correct, the pronouncement leaves Terri Schindler-Schiavo vulnerable to an unjust and cruel death. We need to pray as Governor Bush and Terri's family and lawyers consider alternative actions available.
The Florida Supreme Court ruled that the law violated the Florida Constitution's separation of powers. While the basis for the ruling may be technically correct, the pronouncement leaves Terri Schindler-Schiavo vulnerable to an unjust and cruel death. We need to pray as Governor Bush and Terri's family and lawyers consider alternative actions available.
More on the Blogosphere and the Old Media
Jonathan Last has published a timeline of the role of bloggers and other web sites in uncovering the CBS fiasco at The Weekly Standard.
Meanwhile, Frederick Turner ponders the larger meaning of these developments at Tech Central Station.
Jonathan Last has published a timeline of the role of bloggers and other web sites in uncovering the CBS fiasco at The Weekly Standard.
Meanwhile, Frederick Turner ponders the larger meaning of these developments at Tech Central Station.
For as the story developed, something remarkable began to happen. The new community became aware of itself as a community -- the group mind, so to speak, had awakened, yawned, and seen itself in the mirror. As the various blogs, comment threads, and link systems cohered and came together, they started to recognize, exult in, and reflect upon their own power and speed, and a new tone entered the discussion. The power that the blogosphere recognized in itself was a veridical power, the power to discover the truth. Although much of the discourse was still in the jeering partisan spirit of the last weeks of an American general election, where the scoring of rhetorical points easily trumps the boring presentation of fact and logic, a new spirit of responsibility had emerged.
Monday, September 20, 2004
CBS 'fesses up.
Dan Rather and CBS News have admitted that they can no longer vouch for the documents alleging deficiencies in President Bush's National Guard service in the early 1970's. Of course, the other shoe has yet to drop. Who was the ultimate source of the forged documents and who all were involved in their dissemination?
Having a day job and slow typing fingers, I am what would probably be called a 'casual blogger'. I haven't been a part of the groundbreaking investigation of the CBS fiasco, but I'm proud of the large and growing community called the 'Blogosphere', itself a part of the New Media(or Alt Media) which played such a crucial role in this whole affair.
While this whole affair has brought unprecedented attention to the Alt Media, it's not the first time the non-traditional media have influenced the outcome of public events. For example, it was nearly a year ago that the Alt Media played a key role in saving the life of the disbled woman Terri Schindler-Schiavo (whose case is now being contested at the Florida Supreme Court). Rapid communication by thousands via e-mail, blogs, talk radio, etc. overcame Old Media bias and spurred Governor Jeb Bush and the Florida Legislature to take action to save Terri's life.
Dan Rather and CBS News have admitted that they can no longer vouch for the documents alleging deficiencies in President Bush's National Guard service in the early 1970's. Of course, the other shoe has yet to drop. Who was the ultimate source of the forged documents and who all were involved in their dissemination?
Having a day job and slow typing fingers, I am what would probably be called a 'casual blogger'. I haven't been a part of the groundbreaking investigation of the CBS fiasco, but I'm proud of the large and growing community called the 'Blogosphere', itself a part of the New Media(or Alt Media) which played such a crucial role in this whole affair.
While this whole affair has brought unprecedented attention to the Alt Media, it's not the first time the non-traditional media have influenced the outcome of public events. For example, it was nearly a year ago that the Alt Media played a key role in saving the life of the disbled woman Terri Schindler-Schiavo (whose case is now being contested at the Florida Supreme Court). Rapid communication by thousands via e-mail, blogs, talk radio, etc. overcame Old Media bias and spurred Governor Jeb Bush and the Florida Legislature to take action to save Terri's life.
Sunday, September 19, 2004
A Really Nice Day
After Friday & Saturday's nasty weather caused by the remains of Ivan, today was a real nice fall-like day, which I spent at the Maryland Renaissance Festival, enjoying plentiful food, drink and entertainment. The Celtic style music performances were particularly appealing to me.
For links to Renaissance Festivals around the country, click here.
After Friday & Saturday's nasty weather caused by the remains of Ivan, today was a real nice fall-like day, which I spent at the Maryland Renaissance Festival, enjoying plentiful food, drink and entertainment. The Celtic style music performances were particularly appealing to me.
For links to Renaissance Festivals around the country, click here.
Wednesday, September 15, 2004
Hurricane Ivan
NOAA
The ferocious Hurricane Ivan is approaching the Gulf Coast tonight. Pray for all those in its path. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Jeanne is lurking in the Caribbean.
NOAA
The ferocious Hurricane Ivan is approaching the Gulf Coast tonight. Pray for all those in its path. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Jeanne is lurking in the Caribbean.
Monday, September 13, 2004
Empire strikes back, but Jedi bloggers carry on.
Dan Rather tonight presented an updated defense of the CBS story on supposed National Guard documents damaging to President Bush. Note that the story cites two new experts, Bill Glennon, described as a 'document expert', and Richard Katz, a 'software designer'. No backgrounds or affiliations are cited. I quickly Googled those names, but the results are inconclusive since they are common names and I seemed to get hits on multiple people. It will be interesting to see what more persistent researchers come up with.
Meanwhile, Roderick Boyd of the New York Sun describes how a number of bloggers examined and challenged the suspicious documents presented by CBS.
Finally, Father George Rutler has a humorous perspective on this whole spectacle.
Dan Rather tonight presented an updated defense of the CBS story on supposed National Guard documents damaging to President Bush. Note that the story cites two new experts, Bill Glennon, described as a 'document expert', and Richard Katz, a 'software designer'. No backgrounds or affiliations are cited. I quickly Googled those names, but the results are inconclusive since they are common names and I seemed to get hits on multiple people. It will be interesting to see what more persistent researchers come up with.
Meanwhile, Roderick Boyd of the New York Sun describes how a number of bloggers examined and challenged the suspicious documents presented by CBS.
Finally, Father George Rutler has a humorous perspective on this whole spectacle.
Friday, September 10, 2004
Old Media Unraveling
The case of the apparently forged National Guard documents related to President Bush's service continues to unravel. Here is yesterday's post (with updates) on Powerline Blog, the response to the controversy by CBS and comments on the role of the New Media by Glenn Reynolds.
The case of the apparently forged National Guard documents related to President Bush's service continues to unravel. Here is yesterday's post (with updates) on Powerline Blog, the response to the controversy by CBS and comments on the role of the New Media by Glenn Reynolds.
Wednesday, September 08, 2004
Hard Landing
The re-entry capsule from the Genesis probe, designed to collect solar wind samples, crashed into the Utah desert today when its parachute systems failed. While severely damaged, the capsule lodged into the desert sand pretty much in one piece. Project scientists are trying to determine if any of the solar wind samples survived for study.
Here are reports from NASA, Space.com and Spaceflight Now.
The re-entry capsule from the Genesis probe, designed to collect solar wind samples, crashed into the Utah desert today when its parachute systems failed. While severely damaged, the capsule lodged into the desert sand pretty much in one piece. Project scientists are trying to determine if any of the solar wind samples survived for study.
Here are reports from NASA, Space.com and Spaceflight Now.
Friday, September 03, 2004
Meanwhile,...
NOAA
...other events in the world call for attention and prayer, including the latest terrorist atrocity in Russia, Hurricane Frances and Former President Bill Clinton's heart condition.
NOAA
...other events in the world call for attention and prayer, including the latest terrorist atrocity in Russia, Hurricane Frances and Former President Bill Clinton's heart condition.
Grand Finale
W wrapped up the convention with a convincing, if a little lengthy, acceptance speech.
Here's a little gem regarding Old Media opinion:
And on the ordeal the nation has endured:
W wrapped up the convention with a convincing, if a little lengthy, acceptance speech.
In this world of change, some things do not change: the values we try to live by, the institutions that give our lives meaning and purpose. Our society rests on a foundation of responsibility and character and family commitment.
... Because a caring society will value its weakest members, we must make a place for the unborn child. ...
Here's a little gem regarding Old Media opinion:
In 1946, 18 months after the fall of Berlin to allied forces, a journalist wrote in the New York Times, "Germany is a land in an acute stage of economic, political and moral crisis. [European] capitals are frightened. In every [military] headquarters, one meets alarmed officials doing their utmost to deal with the consequences of the occupation policy that they admit has failed." Maybe that same person's still around, writing editorials.
And on the ordeal the nation has endured:
The world saw that spirit three miles from here, when the people of this city faced peril together, and lifted a flag over the ruins, and defied the enemy with their courage. My fellow Americans, for as long as our country stands, people will look to the resurrection of New York City and they will say: Here buildings fell, and here a nation rose.
Wednesday, September 01, 2004
Give 'em Hell, Zell!
Georgia's retiring Democratic Senator Zell Miller is speaking now, saying that his family is more important than his party, and that W is the one he trusts to protect our country. He denounces Democratic 'manic obsession' to bring down W, unlike past history of bipartisanship in times of crisis. Praises our soldiers as liberators.
He's listing many of the U.S. armaments that John Kerry opposed. "US forces armed with what? Spitballs!" Contrasts Kerry's votes with campaign rhetoric.
John Kerry "more wrong, more weak and more wobbly" than any other leader. W committed to 'kind of forces to root out terrorists'. Now praising W's values.
"This Democrat is proud to stand with him!"
As background, here is an article on Zell's conversion from pro-abortion to prolife.
UPDATE (~10:30 PM) VP Dick Cheney is speaking to the convention now. He says he's 'glad Zell Miller is on our side'. Praising administration's record on education and the economy. "The Bush tax cuts are working."
Never lose sight of 'preserving the freedom and security of this nation'. Crowd chanting 'Four More Years'! "We're in a war we did not start, and have no choice to win." Terrorists 'did not know America, and did not know George W. Bush'. Listing positive outcomes in the world due to policy on terror. Now citing 'mighty debt to the US armed forces'.
VP says 2004 election one of most important in history. Cites differences between W & Kerry on national security. W 'will never seek a permission slip (from foreign leaders) to defend the American people'. We can count on W 'to get it right'.
Citing Kerry's changing positions spurs audience chants of 'Flip Flop!'. VP says W has 'a heart for the weak, the vulnerable and the afflicted' and 'calls evil by its name'. Signs are good for campaign 'even in Massachusetts'.
Post speech music: "Ain't No Stopping Us Now".
Georgia's retiring Democratic Senator Zell Miller is speaking now, saying that his family is more important than his party, and that W is the one he trusts to protect our country. He denounces Democratic 'manic obsession' to bring down W, unlike past history of bipartisanship in times of crisis. Praises our soldiers as liberators.
He's listing many of the U.S. armaments that John Kerry opposed. "US forces armed with what? Spitballs!" Contrasts Kerry's votes with campaign rhetoric.
John Kerry "more wrong, more weak and more wobbly" than any other leader. W committed to 'kind of forces to root out terrorists'. Now praising W's values.
"This Democrat is proud to stand with him!"
As background, here is an article on Zell's conversion from pro-abortion to prolife.
UPDATE (~10:30 PM) VP Dick Cheney is speaking to the convention now. He says he's 'glad Zell Miller is on our side'. Praising administration's record on education and the economy. "The Bush tax cuts are working."
Never lose sight of 'preserving the freedom and security of this nation'. Crowd chanting 'Four More Years'! "We're in a war we did not start, and have no choice to win." Terrorists 'did not know America, and did not know George W. Bush'. Listing positive outcomes in the world due to policy on terror. Now citing 'mighty debt to the US armed forces'.
VP says 2004 election one of most important in history. Cites differences between W & Kerry on national security. W 'will never seek a permission slip (from foreign leaders) to defend the American people'. We can count on W 'to get it right'.
Citing Kerry's changing positions spurs audience chants of 'Flip Flop!'. VP says W has 'a heart for the weak, the vulnerable and the afflicted' and 'calls evil by its name'. Signs are good for campaign 'even in Massachusetts'.
Post speech music: "Ain't No Stopping Us Now".
Tuesday, August 31, 2004
RNC Night 2
Maryland Lt. Gov. Michael Steele spoke a few minutes ago and challenged stale conventional wisdom by stating how giving people more freedom helps to lift people up:
Now Governor Arnie is giving a rousing speech advocating freedom and optimism, urging critics not to be 'economic girlie-men'.
Coming up soon, W's daughters, then First Lady Laura.
BTW, transcripts & videos of Monday night's major speeches are linked here. Presumably, each day's speeches will be added.
Maryland Lt. Gov. Michael Steele spoke a few minutes ago and challenged stale conventional wisdom by stating how giving people more freedom helps to lift people up:
You can't help the poor by destroying the rich.
Now Governor Arnie is giving a rousing speech advocating freedom and optimism, urging critics not to be 'economic girlie-men'.
Coming up soon, W's daughters, then First Lady Laura.
BTW, transcripts & videos of Monday night's major speeches are linked here. Presumably, each day's speeches will be added.
More on the Old Media Meltdown
Glenn Reynolds has an article at TechCentralStation.
Glenn Reynolds has an article at TechCentralStation.
That decline is partly technological in origin. Monopolistic or oligopolistic newspapers and broadcast outlets were the result of technology: economies of scale and scope that rewarded consolidation and led to virtually no competition among newspapers and very little among broadcasters. Now that's changing, as alternative outlets like talk radio, cable television, and, especially, the Internet, have almost completely removed the traditional barriers to entry and allowed competition.
But the loss of those barriers isn't the biggest problem faced by the mainstream media. The biggest problem is that, like most monopolists, they've spent so many years enjoying their position and not worrying about quality that they're left floundering now that competition is exposing their faults. Like the folks at GM who couldn't understand why people were buying Toyotas all of a sudden back in the 1970s, today's Big Media folks are shocked to see ratings and circulation numbers falling while readership for Internet sites skyrockets. And, like the auto executives, they're even starting to mumble about the need for protection.
Monday, August 30, 2004
Old Media Meltdown
Beyond the specifics regarding John Kerry and Viet Nam, the Swift Boat Vets episode signifies the shift in influence from the Old Media to the Alt Media, according to John Podoretz in the NY Post.
Meanwhile, a Reuters editor became unhinged in his response to a prolife group's press release.
Beyond the specifics regarding John Kerry and Viet Nam, the Swift Boat Vets episode signifies the shift in influence from the Old Media to the Alt Media, according to John Podoretz in the NY Post.
Meanwhile, a Reuters editor became unhinged in his response to a prolife group's press release.
RNC on a Roll
With a narrow but increasingly consistent trend in the polls favoring W, the Republican Convention is off to a buoyant start. John McCain is currently speaking with a strong defense of W's leadership in defending America.
UPDATE (~10:45 PM) A moving Sept. 11 commemoration included three widows of heroes from that terrible day and a rendition of Amazing Grace. Rudy Giuliani coming on now.
With a narrow but increasingly consistent trend in the polls favoring W, the Republican Convention is off to a buoyant start. John McCain is currently speaking with a strong defense of W's leadership in defending America.
UPDATE (~10:45 PM) A moving Sept. 11 commemoration included three widows of heroes from that terrible day and a rendition of Amazing Grace. Rudy Giuliani coming on now.
Friday, August 20, 2004
Apocalypse Now
I haven't covered much on politics or anything else recently, but the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth seem to have evoked a desperate anti-free speech legal action by the Kerry campaign and some hysterical responses from the Old Media, such as Chris Matthew's implosion last night. Once again, the power of the Alt Media, including the blogosphere, to end-run the Old Media control and slant of information is contributing to the vitality of our democracy.
I've been reluctant to go full throttle on this whole thing since I appreciate the service of anyone who has served in combat. However, Mr. Kerry opened himself to this controversy by playing up his Viet Nam experience so prominently at the Dem Convention. Maybe he should get back to advocating for his Iraq policy of the week.
I haven't covered much on politics or anything else recently, but the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth seem to have evoked a desperate anti-free speech legal action by the Kerry campaign and some hysterical responses from the Old Media, such as Chris Matthew's implosion last night. Once again, the power of the Alt Media, including the blogosphere, to end-run the Old Media control and slant of information is contributing to the vitality of our democracy.
I've been reluctant to go full throttle on this whole thing since I appreciate the service of anyone who has served in combat. However, Mr. Kerry opened himself to this controversy by playing up his Viet Nam experience so prominently at the Dem Convention. Maybe he should get back to advocating for his Iraq policy of the week.
Robot on the Way
I'm behind in my blogging, and I know it's old news, but NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe's recent announcement on Hubble robotic servicing could mean some exciting and challenging work for me and my coworkers over the next few years.
I'm behind in my blogging, and I know it's old news, but NASA Administrator Sean O'Keefe's recent announcement on Hubble robotic servicing could mean some exciting and challenging work for me and my coworkers over the next few years.
Friday, August 13, 2004
Charley Hits Florida
NOAA
While Bonny fizzled out, Charley has done 'significant damage' in Florida and will likely be near here in the Middle Atlantic region tomorrow evening.
NOAA
While Bonny fizzled out, Charley has done 'significant damage' in Florida and will likely be near here in the Middle Atlantic region tomorrow evening.
Tuesday, August 03, 2004
A Bold Agenda on Taxes
House Speaker Denny Hastert says its time to end the cumbersome tax system we all know and hate. This could become a centerpiece of W's second term domestic agenda.
One promising alternative is proposed by Americans for Fair Taxation.
House Speaker Denny Hastert says its time to end the cumbersome tax system we all know and hate. This could become a centerpiece of W's second term domestic agenda.
"If you own property, stock, or, say, one hundred acres of farmland and tax time is approaching, you don't want to make a mistake, so you're almost obliged to go to a certified public accountant, tax preparer, or tax attorney to help you file a correct return. That costs a lot of money," writes Hastert. "Now multiply the amount you have to pay by the total number of people who are in the same boat. You can't. No one can because precise numbers don't exist. But we can stipulate that we're talking about a huge amount. Now consider that a flat tax, national sales tax, or VAT would not only eliminate the need to do this, it could also eliminate the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) itself and make the process of paying taxes much easier."
One promising alternative is proposed by Americans for Fair Taxation.
Tuesday, July 27, 2004
Blowin' in the Wind
Peter, Paul & Mary serenaded the Democratic Convention earlier this evening with their famous rendition of Bob Dylan's Blowin' in the Wind. The lyrics include these words:
Well, yes, too many people have died, because of the policies of the Democratic Party and the powerful interests that control it.
Peter, Paul & Mary serenaded the Democratic Convention earlier this evening with their famous rendition of Bob Dylan's Blowin' in the Wind. The lyrics include these words:
Yes, 'n' how many ears must one man have
Before he can hear people cry?
Yes, 'n' how many deaths will it take till he knows
That too many people have died?
Well, yes, too many people have died, because of the policies of the Democratic Party and the powerful interests that control it.
Prize Update
The Ansari X-Prize announcements were made today as expected, according to this SPACE.com article.
The Ansari X-Prize announcements were made today as expected, according to this SPACE.com article.
Rutan and his team have given its official 60-day notice, with the first X Prize attempt set for September 29 from the inland Mojave Spaceport in California. To win the $10 million, SpaceShipOne will need to make a second flight within two weeks, by October 13.
Hot on Rutan’s heels is Brian Feeney, leader of the Canadian da Vinci Project. Feeney also reported today that his team is rolling out on August 5 their completed X Prize vehicle -- the balloon-lofted Wild Fire rocket. The public unveiling will take place at the team’s Downsview Airport hanger in Toronto.
Monday, July 26, 2004
Ground Control to John Kerry?
NASA, link by Blogs for Bush
While the Democratic Convention would open later today in Boston, John Kerry visited the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. He addressed a number of issues, including the pushing of embryonic stem cell research, but did not propose a vision for the space frontier.
Kerry's record and statements on space are, on the whole, rather negative. On the other hand, President Bush will fight for the vision of our future in space.
BTW, check out Free Republic's 'caption contest' for the above photo.
NASA, link by Blogs for Bush
While the Democratic Convention would open later today in Boston, John Kerry visited the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. He addressed a number of issues, including the pushing of embryonic stem cell research, but did not propose a vision for the space frontier.
Kerry's record and statements on space are, on the whole, rather negative. On the other hand, President Bush will fight for the vision of our future in space.
BTW, check out Free Republic's 'caption contest' for the above photo.
Sunday, July 25, 2004
A Space Race with ... Canada?
The Ansari-X-Prize has announced a press event for this coming Tuesday featuring several announcements about the competition, according to Space.com.
The Ansari-X-Prize has announced a press event for this coming Tuesday featuring several announcements about the competition, according to Space.com.
According to the X Prize Foundation press statement today, “representatives from major teams including Burt Rutan from the American Scaled Composites team and Brian Feeney from the Canadian da Vinci Project team will be present”.
9/11 Commission
I haven't had time to read the report myself, but by most accounts, the Commission report provided a sobering warning on our vulnerability to future attacks and serious recommendations to the country, while avoiding a partisan slant in either direction.
I haven't had time to read the report myself, but by most accounts, the Commission report provided a sobering warning on our vulnerability to future attacks and serious recommendations to the country, while avoiding a partisan slant in either direction.
Monday, July 19, 2004
Two Anniversaries
Tuesday July 20, marks the 35th anniversary of when humans first made landfall on another world.
NASA
The day when Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed the Eagle on the lunar surface and then Armstrong took that famous "Giant Leap" was one of the great moments in history. Here is the Apollo 11 page of the National Air and Space Museum, plus some interesting commentary by Rand Simberg and Mark Whittington. This anniversary comes with a renewed Vision for Space Exploration.
The other anniversary is not quite so momentous for humanity. Last year on the 34th Apollo 11 anniversary, I launched this humble blog. While a busy life and slow typing fingers keep me from covering every event or topic I'd like, this past year has been quite a ride.
September brought, among other things, Hurricane Isabel. October include the first Chinese astronaut and the critical point in the ongoing grassroots fight for the life of Terri-Schindler-Schiavo, (perhaps the Internet's finest hour). January was a particularly busy month, with probes exploring Mars & a comet while President George W. Bush heralded a new initiative for exploring space. Meanwhile, also check the January archive for my essay on Why we March for Life each year.
It's getting late and my memory is blurring on more recent events I've covered, but look forward for another exciting year of Faith, Life, Liberty & the Final Frontier.
Tuesday July 20, marks the 35th anniversary of when humans first made landfall on another world.
NASA
The day when Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin landed the Eagle on the lunar surface and then Armstrong took that famous "Giant Leap" was one of the great moments in history. Here is the Apollo 11 page of the National Air and Space Museum, plus some interesting commentary by Rand Simberg and Mark Whittington. This anniversary comes with a renewed Vision for Space Exploration.
The other anniversary is not quite so momentous for humanity. Last year on the 34th Apollo 11 anniversary, I launched this humble blog. While a busy life and slow typing fingers keep me from covering every event or topic I'd like, this past year has been quite a ride.
September brought, among other things, Hurricane Isabel. October include the first Chinese astronaut and the critical point in the ongoing grassroots fight for the life of Terri-Schindler-Schiavo, (perhaps the Internet's finest hour). January was a particularly busy month, with probes exploring Mars & a comet while President George W. Bush heralded a new initiative for exploring space. Meanwhile, also check the January archive for my essay on Why we March for Life each year.
It's getting late and my memory is blurring on more recent events I've covered, but look forward for another exciting year of Faith, Life, Liberty & the Final Frontier.
Tuesday, July 13, 2004
Keeping Busy
Participated Monday in the first day of the Moon-Mars Blitz on Capitol Hill. (A number of additional organizations joined the Space Exploration Alliance after this press release was published.)
Later this week, I'm off to Vegas for Return to the Moon V.
Participated Monday in the first day of the Moon-Mars Blitz on Capitol Hill. (A number of additional organizations joined the Space Exploration Alliance after this press release was published.)
Later this week, I'm off to Vegas for Return to the Moon V.
Marriage Debate
For background info on this week's Senate debate on the Federal Marriage Amendment, see MarriageDebate.com.
For background info on this week's Senate debate on the Federal Marriage Amendment, see MarriageDebate.com.
Wednesday, July 07, 2004
John Kerry's Illogic on Abortion
Everyone's probably heard by now that John Kerry has picked John Edwards as his running mate. But we shouldn't overlook Mr. Kerry's latest contortion over the status of the unborn.
John Kerry stated "I believe life does begin at conception." But then he drags out that old fallacy that protecting those unborn lives would be imposing Catholic beliefs on people who subscribe to other religions. In reality, this is not some issue of abstract theological doctrine. The Catholic Church and its faithful followers (along with many Protestants, Jews, Muslims, atheists, etc.) are simply recognizing an objective natural reality.
The real question is, is our society inclusive enough to protect every human life at any stage or in any condition?
Everyone's probably heard by now that John Kerry has picked John Edwards as his running mate. But we shouldn't overlook Mr. Kerry's latest contortion over the status of the unborn.
John Kerry stated "I believe life does begin at conception." But then he drags out that old fallacy that protecting those unborn lives would be imposing Catholic beliefs on people who subscribe to other religions. In reality, this is not some issue of abstract theological doctrine. The Catholic Church and its faithful followers (along with many Protestants, Jews, Muslims, atheists, etc.) are simply recognizing an objective natural reality.
The real question is, is our society inclusive enough to protect every human life at any stage or in any condition?
Thursday, July 01, 2004
Cassini Snaps the Rings
After safely entering orbit around Saturn, the Cassini spacecraft sent back it's first images of the planet's rings.
After safely entering orbit around Saturn, the Cassini spacecraft sent back it's first images of the planet's rings.
Convening for Life
I've already attended the first day of this year's National Right to Life Convention here in the DC area, which included a video greeting from President Bush.
I've already attended the first day of this year's National Right to Life Convention here in the DC area, which included a video greeting from President Bush.
Wednesday, June 30, 2004
Meeting the Lord of the Rings
The Cassini spacecraft is in the middle of it's Saturn Orbit Insertion Burn. Spaceflight Now is providing a continually updated mission status.
The Cassini spacecraft is in the middle of it's Saturn Orbit Insertion Burn. Spaceflight Now is providing a continually updated mission status.
Tuesday, June 29, 2004
Still Trying to Party Like It's 1992
But the Democrats will have trouble keeping the party going since they have been lethally eliminating so many future partiers.
But the Democrats will have trouble keeping the party going since they have been lethally eliminating so many future partiers.
Bush Blogroll Feature
I've just added a feature from the Blogs for Bush site, which links to the 25 most recently updated sites from the Bush Blogroll. Check it out immediately below my permanent blog list on the right.
I've just added a feature from the Blogs for Bush site, which links to the 25 most recently updated sites from the Bush Blogroll. Check it out immediately below my permanent blog list on the right.
Wednesday, June 23, 2004
Gone Home to the Lord
My Mom passed away early Monday morning after a period of declining health. My brother and sisters and I were with her at her hospital bed as late as Sunday afternoon. In this time of sadness we are comforted by the support of family and friends, many happy memories and the promise of life beyond death.
"He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain, for the old order has passed away."
Rev 21:4
My Mom passed away early Monday morning after a period of declining health. My brother and sisters and I were with her at her hospital bed as late as Sunday afternoon. In this time of sadness we are comforted by the support of family and friends, many happy memories and the promise of life beyond death.
"He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain, for the old order has passed away."
Rev 21:4
A New Space Age Begins
Scaled Composites, LLC
On Monday June 21, Mike Melvill became the first pilot to fly a privately developed craft into space. The craft, SpaceShipOne, was developed by Scaled Composites of Mojave, California.
Space.Com provides an archive of stories and photos about the effort. Comments on the meaning of this accomplishment are provided by the Space Frontier Foundation and the National Space Society.
Scaled Composites, LLC
On Monday June 21, Mike Melvill became the first pilot to fly a privately developed craft into space. The craft, SpaceShipOne, was developed by Scaled Composites of Mojave, California.
Space.Com provides an archive of stories and photos about the effort. Comments on the meaning of this accomplishment are provided by the Space Frontier Foundation and the National Space Society.
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