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August 31, 2006
Survivor irony
CBS (in a desperate attempt to revive a failing reality show) announced this week that the “teams” on the new Survivor will be split along racial lines.
The response was immediate and predictable. The show is racist, bad for America and certainly bad for the races involved.
Two things that those with a sense of humor will find entertaining and ironic.
First, the groups decrying this racial spilt are all race specific groups; black, Latino and Asian caucus groups from New York’s City Council, the black group Project 21 and Hispanics Across America to name a few. I am always struck by the way race-based groups – with a straight and outraged face - attack anyone who does something based on race.
Second, none of the protestors or protesting groups are white, though whites have a “tribe” on the new show.
CBS has achieved their goal, invaluable amounts of free publicity and a very good shot at high ratings. Race based groups will get their air time and a fresh infusion of “outrage” money and very little else will change in this country because a minor television show thought it would be good TV to split teams up based on race.
Posted by sharris at 07:17 AM
Barrooms, backrooms and living rooms
Too many of us focus our attention on the conversation in one of these rooms, to the exclusion of the other two.
I know in my case, it took years of my explaining to my wife the intricacies of politics, the value of obscure bills and politicians and the critical importance of election and campaign reform before I finally came around to her way of thinking.
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 30, 2006
Election Season
The “election season” for national elections traditionally ran from Labor Day until the day in November when the actual election took place.
It is beginning to appear that for liberals, the real ‘election season” begins the day after the election, which is usually a defeat.
Al Gore still can’t get past losing to George Bush in the 2000 presidential election. It was the Supreme Court, Jeb Bush, chads or the boogeyman, but someone stole his election and at least in this country, liberals can’t get over it.
The same mindset has infected liberals worldwide as evidenced by Mexican presidential candidate – and loser – Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador unwillingness to accept his loss to conservative Felipe Calderon. Lopez Obrador continues to push for another recount and promises to never quit trying to take what he didn’t earn.
Now, John Kerry is back on the “I didn’t really lose” trail, announcing that election improprieties by Ohio’s Secretary of State Ken Blackwell cost him the race in Ohio and as a result, the presidency.
Kerry said in an email sent to over 100,000 Democratic donors…
“He (Blackwell) used the power of his state office to try and intimidate Ohioans and suppress the Democratic vote.” and “used his office to abuse our democracy and threaten basic voting rights.”
What I don’t understand about the liberals’ efforts here, beyond the childish inability to graciously accept defeat, is that every Democratic spokesperson claims they speak for the vast majority of Americans and yet they can’t win national elections. Americans can almost always be counted on for two things; supporting underdogs and despising sore losers. Liberals seem to count on the first and forget the second.
Win in the marketplace of ideas or lose graciously, but quit insulting the American public - and voters – by claiming victory following every defeat.
Posted by sharris at 12:02 AM
Winston Churchill
The world today is ruled by harassed politicians absorbed in getting into office or turning out the other man so that not much room is left for debating great issues on their merits.
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 29, 2006
State Superintendent of Public Education, Jack O’Connell
I had the opportunity yesterday to interview California State Superintendent of Public Education, Jack O’Connell.
While I wish we had had more than 30 minutes, but we packed as much as humanly possible into the time allowed. Jack candidly discusses the CTA, Mayor Villaraigosa and the LAUSD, the high school exit exam, high school dropouts, parent responsibility and where we need to take public education in the future.
30 minutes well spent and I hope you’ll give it a listen!
Posted by sharris at 06:25 AM
Mort Sahl
Reagan won because he ran against Jimmy Carter. Had he run against unopposed he would have lost.
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
Welfare Reform
10 years ago this month, President Clinton took one of the few major risks of his presidency, infuriating Democrats and giving Republicans a reason to hope. He signed the welfare-reform package, requiring those who could, to work.
The impact has been dramatic. Welfare caseloads have dropped 60%, from 1993 to 2000 single mothers with jobs jumped to 75 percent, from 58 percent. Child poverty rates dropped every year from 1994 to 2000.
Love President Clinton or hate him (is there anyone in between?), give credit where credit is due – welfare reform was a good thing.
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 28, 2006
A professor’s Islamic ties
I recently met columnist Joel Mowbray and was impressed with his writing, but more important, to his commitment to truth. He can be found as a regular contributor to Townhall.com
His August 25th op-ed in the Washington Times is an important reminder of the challenges we face as a nation in our battle – domestically and internationally – against terrorism.
It continues to amaze – and frighten – me that so many people do not understand the magnitude of the problem or the depth of the hatred that we face. Continued efforts to pull from the Neville Chamberlain playbook only delay the inevitable and not to our benefit.
Posted by sharris at 12:02 AM
8th Grade Test
This test has been floating around the Internet for a while, so it may not be new to you. There is also some question as to whether or not the test was really for 8th graders, but no question that the test existed. 8th grade or not, even if the test was meant for high school graduates, or those who taught them – how many of us could pass it today?
This is final exam (8th grade?) from 1895 in Salina, KS, USA. It was taken from the original document on file at the Smokey Valley Genealogical Society and Library in Salina, KS, and reprinted by the Salina Journal.
FINAL EXAM
Grammar (Time, one hour)
1. Give nine rules for the use of Capital Letters.
2. Name the Parts of Speech and define those that have no Modifications.
3. Define Verse, Stanza and Paragraph.
4. What are the Principal Parts of a verb? Give Principal Parts of lie, lay and run
5. Define Case, Illustrate each Case.
6. What is Punctuation? Give rules for principal marks of Punctuation.
7. Write a composition of about 150 words and show therein that you understand the practical use of the rules of grammar.
Arithmetic (Time, 1.25 hours)
1. Name and define the Fundamental Rules of Arithmetic.
2. A wagon box is 2 ft. deep, 10 ft. long, and 3 ft. wide. How many bushels of wheat will it hold?
3. If a load of wheat weighs 3942 lbs., what is it worth at
50cts/bushel, deducting 1050 lbs. for tare?
4. District No. 33 has a valuation of $35,000. What is the necessary levy to carry on a school seven months at $50 per month, and have $104 for incidentals?
5. Find cost of 6720 lbs. coal at $6.00 per ton.
6. Find the interest of $512.60 for 8 months and 18 days at 7 percent.
7. What is the cost of 40 boards 12 inches wide and 16 ft. long at $20 per meter?
8 Find bank discount on $300 for 90 days (no grace) at 10 percent.
9. What is the cost of a square farm at $15 per acre, the distance
around which is 640 rods?
10. Write a Bank Check, a Promissory Note, and a Receipt.
U. S. History (Time, 45 minutes)
1. Give the epochs into which U. S. History is divided.
2. Give an account of the discovery of America by Columbus.
3. Relate the causes and results of the Revolutionary War.
4. Show the territorial growth of the United States.
5. Tell what you can of the history of Kansas.
6. Describe three of the most prominent battles of the Rebellion.
7. Who were the following: Morse, Whitney, Fulton, Bell, Lincoln, Penn, and Howe?
8. Name events connected with the following dates: 1607, 1620, 1800, 1849, 1865.
Orthography (Time, one hour)
1. What is meant by the following: Alphabet, phonetic, orthography, etymology, syllabication?
2. What are elementary sounds? How classified?
3. What are the following, and give examples of each: Trigraph, sub vocals, diphthong, cognate letters, linguals?
4. Give four substitutes for caret 'u'.
5. Give two rules for spelling words with final 'e.' Name two
exceptions under each rule.
6. Give two uses of silent letters in spelling. Illustrate each.
7. Define the following prefixes and use in connection with a word: bi, dis, mis, pre, semi, post, non, inter, mono, sup
8. Mark diacritically and divide ! into syl lables the following, and name the sign that indicates the sound: card, ball, mercy, sir, odd, cell, rise, blood, fare, last.
9. Use the following correctly in sentences: cite, site, sight, fane,
fain, feign, vane, vain, vein, raze, raise, rays.
10. Write 10 words frequently mispronounced and indicate pronunciation by use of diacritical marks and by syllabication.
Geography (Time, one hour)
1. What is climate? Upon what does climate depend?
2. How do you account for the extremes of climate in Kansas?
3. Of what use are rivers? Of what use is the ocean?
4. Describe the mountains of North America.
5. Name and describe the following: Monrovia, Odessa, Denver,
Manitoba, Hecla, Yukon, St. Helena, Juan Fernandez, Aspinwall &Orinoco.
6. Name and locate the principal trade centers of the U.S.
7. Name all the republics of Europe and give the capital of each.
8. Why is the Atlantic Coast colder than the Pacific in the same latitude?
9. Describe the process by which the water of the ocean returns to the sources of rivers.
10. Describe the movements of the earth. Give the inclination of the earth.
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 27, 2006
The People’s Machine
I am in the middle of reading a terrific book, The People’s Machine, written by Los Angeles Times reporter Joe Mathews. If you haven’t had a chance to read it, I suggest picking it up. It’s a fascinating look at California politics and specifically a focused look at Arnold Schwarzenegger. Joe has done quite a bit of research and background work and I’ll be highlighting some of it over the coming weeks. Let’s start with a quote from the San Diego Union.
“California appears doomed to be continually in the throes of politics. As soon as one election is over, long-range campaigning for the next one will begin. This sort of political endless chain is not alluring”
The San Diego Union has certainly captured the way many of us are feeling and the quote is really no surprise. Except, the quote was written not this month, but in 1914 and in reaction to Hiram Johnson (in his second term as governor) and his extensive efforts to circumvent the state legislature with direct democracy. Prescient?
Posted by sharris at 12:02 AM
Nunez pads family finances
Maria Robles, wife of Assembly Speaker Fabian Nunez won a $125,000 consulting contract from the South Coast Air Quality Management District.
Coincidently, at the very same time, the SCAQMD is lobbying hard in Sacramento for legislation that would cut emissions on train stations. Now for the more cynical among us, this might be a red flag that something less than kosher was afoot.
However, rest easy because Nunez spokesman Steve Maviglio said Robles signed a conflict-of-interest statement saying she can't lobby on the bill, and that Nuñez will abstain from voting if the bill reaches the Assembly floor.
Whew.
Otherwise, this might have appeared inappropriate☺
Posted by sharris at 12:00 AM
August 26, 2006
Perata picks and chooses
Almost two weeks the California State legislature abandoned their promise to tackle the issue of independent redistricting. The complete statement is at the bottom of this entry.
Specifically, Senate President Pro Tem Don Perata (D – Oakland) said “ I don’t think our whole idea was so much to get it on this year’s ballot as it was to show people that there was a determination to have an alternative method to draw the state lines.”
Bottom line is that he didn’t feel a month (what happened to the year preceding the month, he doesn’t explain) was enough time to stick to his commitment.
However, I guess 5 days is enough time to try and reverse the successful changes in workers comp. Perata is now making a last ditch effort boost disability benefits for severely injured workers.
Perata spokeswoman (I wasn’t there, but perhaps she said it with a straight face) said, “Senator Perata made a commitment.” It appears Mr. Perata is very particular about which commitments count and which are made for political expediency. It would be nice if he helped us understand the difference.
There is no question about the need to reform the redistricting process and our current system of term limits in California. But given the tremendous impact any proposal crafted by the Legislature this year could have on politics and policymaking in our state, we feel it is the best course not to pursue a sweeping reform package in the waning hours of the legislative session. Make no mistake, our caution in crafting a reform package this year does not in any way diminish our determination to fix a broken system. We stand committed to revisiting redistricting and term limits reform in the next legislative session – to once and for all craft responsible, bipartisan political reforms for the people of California.
Posted by sharris at 11:49 AM
Perata's character
Speaking of Senate President Pro Tem Don Perata (D – Oakland) and his character, or lack thereof, this is the same man who on Tuesday killed flood-control legislation opposed by the California Building Industry Association. Then two days later, in what only those who still believe in the tooth fairly can call a coincidence, the California Building Industry Association made a huge contribution of $500,000 to Rebuilding California, a campaign committee controlled by – you guessed it – Senate President Pro Tem Don Perata.
Posted by sharris at 11:45 AM
Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum
PETM (what most of us know as global warming) is not new. As a matter of fact, over 50 million years ago the world heated up by 10-12 degrees Fahrenheit and the heat wave lasted for 50,000 to 100,000 years.
This was before internal combustion engines, before Capitalism and before the United States. The nations doomsayers (the same ones who panicked about global cooling in the 1970’s) are going to find this a bit of a challenge to explain away. No religious overtones, no right wing conspiracy, just pure sciemce. Even Al Gore might find this to be An Inconvenient Truth and a little difficult to pin on President Bush. However, I’ll be disappointed if he doesn’t try and almost certainly will be entertained by the effort.
Posted by sharris at 11:42 AM
August 25, 2006
This Week in Politics and Policy.
Starting today, I am introducing a new feature to the blog. Every Friday I will do a summary of the weeks political and policy events, which will be available in a 500 word column (picked up by as many newspapers as possible), as well as 2-minute radio version, which will be carried by as many stations as possible.
In the next few days, the website will be formatted to carry these as well. As always, your feedback is encouraged and welcome. Thank you.
This Week in Politics and Policy.
Every week we take a quick tour around the great State of California, highlighting what’s new in Sacramento and what’s happening around the state that affects you, your family and your business.
Since the gubernatorial race is shaping up to be an exciting and important one, let’s start there, with Governor Schwarzenegger continuing his march toward the political center.
After twice rejecting minimum wage increases in the past, the Governor agreed to a hike of $1.25 per hour, which by 2008 will bring California’s minimum wage to $8, well above the federal minimum of $5.15 per hour and much more than what the business community would like to have seen. The Governor’s move is being viewed as an acceptable bipartisan compromise.
The Governor also lent his support to a bipartisan effort to bring drug discounts to poor families. While not making any friends in the pharmaceutical community, Schwarzenegger again supported a compromise agreement that will provide discount drug cards to families earning less than three times the federal poverty level.
In another move that frustrates conservatives, the State GOP fired Lou Sheldon, spokesman for the Traditional Values Coalition – an evangelical advocacy group and the Governor’s only true outreach to the church community. The Governor also distanced himself from a troublesome union, withdrawing from the California Correctional Peace officers Association (prison guards) endorsement interview process.
On the Democratic side, State Treasurer and gubernatorial candidate Phil Angelides declared himself the underdog. It’s an unusual move, not because he trails the governor by a significant amount in the polls – which he does – but because registered Democrats outnumber registered Republicans 43 percent to 34 percent.
Angelides, who has been taking quite a bit of heat for his proposed tax increases (which he says will cost $5 billion and the Governor says will cost $18 billion) also announced a $1.4 billion tax cut.
Los Angeles continues to hold the title of being the nation’s least affordable housing market, followed in second place by Anaheim-Santa Ana-Irvine. Oxnard-Thousand Oaks also cracked the nation’s top 10 most expensive housing areas, but I don’t think you’ll see it in the next Chamber newsletter.
Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa continues to take stands surprising to many. When the Engineers and Architects Association went on strike earlier this week (they have since returned to work), the Mayor refused to support them – a surprise to many since unions gave him his start. The mayor continues his effort to take control of the Los Angeles Unified School District. While it’s far from a done deal, he continues to move forward and gain support.
That’s it for this week. Join me again next week as we continue to follow the never-ending story that is California politics. And remember, California is The Alpha State: the greatest state in the world’s greatest country.
Posted by sharris at 12:02 AM
Ronald Reagan
I have wondered at times about what the Ten Commandments would have looked like if Moses had run them through the U.S. Congress.
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 24, 2006
Campaign Finance Reform
I had the privilege of interviewing Republican strategist Dan Schnur yesterday for my weekly radio show, California: The Alpha State .
While we covered a number of issues: the November election, election reform, etc., at the end of the show, Dan brought up, unsolicited, the same issue that Assemblyman Keith Richman had brought up the previous week – campaign finance reform.
It is not as much of a surprise with Dan, since he worked for Senator John McCain who coauthored the nations highest profile campaign finance legislation, “The Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2001", known as "McCain-Feingold".
It was a bit more of a surprise with Richman, who entered the Assembly in 2000 believing that campaign finance reform was a first amendment infringement issue, but after six years, believes it is necessary to restore representative democracy to the state.
Dan used the example of a legislator walking across the street from the capital building, accepting a contribution and walking back to cast a related vote. He suggested a no-fly-zone, that checks cannot be exchanged within 5 mile radius of the capital, forcing legislators to at least drive a bit before accepting the contribution.
He also mentioned that the Schwarzenegger team is looking at banning contributions all together during the last month of each legislative session.
While neither Richman nor Schnur had what they considered the definitive answer, they both believe change is necessary and I (like Keith) have come to believe the same thing.
Your thoughts?
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 23, 2006
Embryonic Stem Cell Research
The August 7th issue of Time magazine takes an in-depth look at the issue of embryonic stem cell research (ESC).
The main concerns of those opposed to ESC is encapsulated and buried at the bottom of the first page. Time said, “supporters argue that an eight-cell embryo doesn’t count as a human life in the first place – not when compared with the life it could help save.”
Those who stand against ESC have not one, but two major problems with this statement.
First, for those who believe life begins at conception, an eight-cell embryo is life and the intentional taking of innocent life is wrong. This means no exception for convenience, finances, rape, abortion or research. For those who believe that life begins at conception, taking a life on the 1st 2nd or 3rd day, or during the 1st, 2nd or 3rd trimester, is no different than taking that same life in the 1st, 2nd or 3rd year.
Second, they believe it is not the role of man to compare the value of human lives and decide who lives and who dies. The implications of that statement are extraordinary and harken back to the days of Nazi Germany and their hideous “medical research” on the Jews. Who are we to compare the value of one life to another? If a patient has a terminal disease, but a healthy heart, can society judge that he/she should forfeit their heart to a younger patient who could live for many years. Do we start harvesting organs from those we consider “less” than others?
This discussion is parallel to the one for those who do not believe in capital punishment. If you do not believe in state sponsored killing, then no crime will be heinous enough to allow it. It is a moral and principled stand and for those who believe it, there is no reason, excuse or justification for the state to intentionally kill an individual.
For those who believe in life beginning with conception, it is the same. No amount of risk to the mother, the fetus, or potential gain through research justifies intentionally ending an innocent life.
I imagine the battle will continue as one group of Americans fights hard to protect innocent life and another group fights just as hard to protect convicted criminals.
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 22, 2006
Campus prejudice
Lafayette College and Johns Hopkins University researchers have finally proven – conclusively – what many of us have felt for a long time was true.
Our nations universities favor lefties.
Their research shows that left handed male college graduates earn 26% more than do righties. This clearly shows a prejudice in favor of leftists and against right-handed people, a bias that should not be allowed to continue now that statistics prove what has long been feared.
I am calling for, no demanding, an investigation into this long standing practice of favoring the left handed at American universities, a practice that has long crippled the earning power of right handed males. I look forward to the support of the ACLU and Jesse Jackson and want to thank them in advance for helping our nation begin the healing process. Righties unite!
Posted by sharris at 12:02 AM
Nikita Khrushchev
Politicians are the same all over. They promise to build a bridge even where there is no water.
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 21, 2006
JFK
Yesterday’s column in the Ventura County Star "If JFK were alive today" took a look at how John F. Kennedy might be an excellent candidate for president - of either party.
I have received quite a few emails to date from readers (always appreciated) and interestingly, not one has suggested that JFK would not be welcomed by their party as a viable candidate.
I wonder if that says more about JFK or the state of the parties (and their potential 2008 presidential candidates) today.
Posted by sharris at 07:18 PM
Lieberman leads
Quinnipiac University in Connecticut has released new poll results that show Senator Joe Lieberman leading in his race to be reelected to the United States Senate by a comfortable margin.
Lieberman leads challenger (and Democratic primary winner) Ned Lamont 49 percent to 38 percent and is way ahead of Republican Alan Schlesinger at only 4 percent.
I continue to believe that a Lieberman victory bodes well for moderates, for tearing down the destructive walls of closed primaries and toward a lessoning of the death grip the two parties have on American politics.
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 20, 2006
Angelides tax cut
Gubernatorial candidate Phil Angelides has discovered that promising tax increases is not necessarily the way to win the hearts, minds and votes of Californians. His proposed increases range from $5 billion (Angelides estimates) to $18 billion (Schwarzenegger’s estimates), but increases they are.
Any good politician knows you promise increased benefits and entitlements, reduced taxes and if forced to explain how increasing costs and reducing revenue can work, you simply explain that you will “close a few loopholes” and run the government more efficiently than any of your predecessors.
So, surprising almost no one, Angelides has now announced that in addition to his tax increases (rich individuals and big business only) he is now offering a $1.4 billion dollar tax cut for the non-rich and small businesses.
This is the most candid Robin Hood (steal from the rich, give to the middle class and the poor don’t vote) politician we have had in a long time, but it’s too late. He has given Schwarzenegger too much ammunition and unless the Governor blows it, he’ll be reelected.
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 19, 2006
Golden State freeway
We often hear about “coast liberals”. Obviously, New York and Los Angeles are strongly liberal and Democratic and for those who spend most of their lives in one or both of those cities, it would seem as if the whole world is liberal. It takes an occasional visit to a red state, or at least a red city, to begin to understand what the “other side” is thinking – and why. True understanding can only come from listening, really listening, to people who have points of view different than your own.
As a centrist, I believe “If you can’t articulate the opposing point of view, you do not have a position, you have an agenda.” Toward that end, if everyone you talk to believes the same way you do, yet the country is split almost down the middle –aren’t you missing critical input and information?
I have recently made a number of trips between Los Angeles and Northern California, all on Highway 5 and it strikes me that we have in miniature (if anything in California is miniature) the same situation. For those who spend their time predominantly in Los Angeles and San Francisco, you would come to believe that everyone thinks the same way as Nancy Pelosi and Barbara Boxer.
However, millions of Californians think a bit more conservatively and I think many of them can be found in the cities along the Golden State Freeway – Highway 5.
Starting about Castaic (heading north) and going through the Grapevine, Buttonwillow, Kettelman City, Panoche Junction, Harris Ranch (yes, it’s my favorite) and right into Stockton, you sense a different set of priorities. You don’t see nearly as many Bush Lied; People Died, Not My President, etc. bumper stickers. Coffee shop conversations seem to focus a bit more on the men and women fighting the war(s) and a little less on Bush, Cheney and Halliburton.
While these cities do not have nearly the number of votes as our huge liberal cities and they certainly don’t raise the kind of money that a star studded Hollywood benefit does, we would have better leaders if they spent just a little more time listening to these “outpost” constituents and the 40% or so of the state that isn’t blue. Maybe next time, one of our elected officials could skip the commuter plan, drive down the 5, have lunch at a local café and learn just a little bit about the folks are thinking. Gas isn’t THAT expensive.
Posted by sharris at 12:02 AM
August 18, 2006
Increased tribal gaming? No!
Regular visitors to this blog might remember that I am against Indian casinos in the State of California. Frankly, it has as much to do with my objection to having sovereign nations operating independent of the rest of the state, yet benefiting from all the state has to offer. Additionally, there are numerous other problems with additional or expanded Indian casinos.
The legislature is now considering – quietly – legislation that would allow the gaming industry in California to double in size. You can learn more about this from Stand Up For California , an organization run by the very passionate Cheryl Schmit.
Should you decide hyou want to join those trying to stop this from happening – myself included – please call or write your representative.
If you choose to write, a sample letter follows….
The Legislature is considering a plan that could double the size of the tribal gaming industry in California. The richest tribes are trying to push this deal through at the eleventh hour without public input. In 2004, we voted down expansion by a 3-to-1 margin, so now the politicians are trying to sneak it through when they think no one is watching.
This deal is bad for our communities. It will set a precedent for large-scale expansion that could give the richest tribes as many slots as the Las Vegas Strip. Instead of considering the impact that these casinos will have in our neighborhoods, the politicians are posturing for money from the state’s largest political contributors—the tribes.
This is an election-year maneuver at the expense of California voters. I sincerely hope the Legislature will stand up for the interests of all Californians and vote it down.
Posted by sharris at 03:13 PM
California State Senate backpedals, again
In light of our legislatures announcement earlier this week that they were reneging on their promise to offer independent redistricting reform in November, the state Senate approved a measure (SCA 3 authored by Alan Lowenthal (D- Long Beach) that would bring independent redistricting to the voters – perhaps (but not guaranteed) in 2008.
Senate President Pro Tem Don Perata (D – Oakland) said “ I don’t think our whole idea was so much to get it on this year’s ballot as it was to show people that there was a determination to have an alternative method to draw the state lines.”
What he meant to say was “I’m not giving up an ounce of my power, regardless of what I promised and the people want and deserve. However, if I pay lip service to the issue, maybe these bothersome constituents will get off my back until I leave for vacation at the end of the month.”
Next up is Assembly Leader Fabian Nunez who has promised his support (sound familiar?) for this someday, maybe, but I’ll be long gone so who cares piece of legislation.
Posted by sharris at 12:02 AM
Ronald Reagan
The most terrifying words in the English language are: I'm from the government and I'm here to help.
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 17, 2006
Assemblyman Keith Richman
I had the privilege today of interviewing Assemblyman Keith Richman for my radio show California: The Alpha State.
In light of the California state legislatures cowardice announcement that they had reneged on their promise to deliver an independent redistricting solution that we could vote on in November, there was no one better to talk to than Keith.
As expected, Keith tackled the issue head on and then added his views on term limits, open primaries, campaign finance reform and the role of special interests in Sacramento.
It will air Saturday, August 26th at 3:30 on News talk KVTA 1520am. However, if you can’t wait – and this one is worth listening to – you can hear it now.
As always, your comments are appreciated!
Posted by sharris at 12:03 AM
August 16, 2006
We are at war!
I’m not sure why this isn’t sinking in with some people. We have been attacked, numerous times since 1983, by Islamic fanatics / fascists / terrorists / you pick. I have spent a considerable amount of time trying to understand Americans who continue to blame America (or Israel) for these unprovoked attacks. I admit to not understanding it, but they must be the same people who blame scantily clad women for being raped, or the beaten wife for not leaving. The kind of person who is far more concerned about the drinking habits of a murderers parents than the victim. It is perverse, but prevalent.
Pointing out that not all Muslims are terrorists and so we should not fight back is like pointing out that not all Germans were anti-Semitic. These people are evil and sick and use our humanity against us. We have three options in response to these attacks….
1. Believing we’ll all be friends someday, so we should just keep talking and negotiating. Nothing in the centuries long history of Islam has shown that they have ever veered from their ultimate goal – destroy all infidels. It doesn’t make sense to think that it is going to change and “hope” is not a policy or a strategy.
1A. Convert to Islam. I don’t think so. Their PR people have not done a real good job of making this particular religion and lifestyle appealing to those of us who have options and freedom.
2. Believing appeasement will work. There is nothing in the history of mankind, not a single shred of evidence – that shows that appeasement works. It is the Neville Chamberlain, United Nations game plan. If we only give them enough, they will leave us alone. Starting in 3rd grade with the class bully, we should have all learned this lesson, but some never have. Unfortunately, there is no guarantee of a Winston Churchill or a Franklin Roosevelt to save us from our naivety.
3. The last, and only option with a chance, is to destroy their ability and their will to a point where they won’t even consider attacking America again. Unfortunately, this requires more than position papers and protests, it requires force. Our enemies are evil, without morals and publicly sworn to destroy us. I think they’ve made their position – and willingness to act on it – perfectly clear.
Like many, I question President Bushes handling of the day-to-day situation in Iraq. However, I do not question his going into Afghanistan or Iraq and wouldn’t lose much sleep if he decided to prevent Iran and North Korea from completing development of nuclear weapons. I applaud Israel for finally saying ‘enough’ and hope that their next effort is even quicker and harsher. God Bless Our Troops!
Posted by sharris at 12:02 AM
Dumb as they come
One of my favorite magazines is The Week. They do a great job of summarizing issues, showing both sides and letting you know what news organizations and commentators from around the world are saying about the issues we are dealing with.
They also throw in a few tension relief items and the following is one of them…
Jerry Mersereau, 23, is suing the U.S. Government because while camping at Mount Hood National Park and looking for somewhere to pee during the night, he fell 20 to 30 feet into a creek.
He believes the government should have anticipated his stupidity and turned this beautiful National Park into an idiot-proof safe zone. He is actually demanding compensation for “mental anguish.”
Doesn’t it seem as if he should have pride and a brain, before he can sue anyone for mental anguish?
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 15, 2006
Tribal college fails
To open, allow me to acknowledge that I am not a supporter of Indian casinos. It is my belief that we are all Americans and in this state all Californians, or we’re not. Complaining of not being accepted or understood and then demanding special circumstances because you’re different does not seem to me to be the best way to move forward.
There are two arguments for these special arrangements. The “we owe you” theory, which I do not buy in to. At some point everyone needs to accept the past, instead of being a slave to it. Both Indians and settlers had their fair share of saints and sinners and in the end, the settlers won. It has been that way throughout history, yet America is the only country continually apologizing for it’s past – which it does not need to do.
The second argument is the necessity to maintain cultural memory and purity – maintaining the essence of American Indian (regardless of tribe) heritage.
In the early 1970’s California established a tribal college, which has now failed. This was a move driven by political correctness and denied UC Davis an opportunity to expand and better serve ALL Californians.
My point is that if the cultural aspect of California Indians was actually as important as we are constantly reminded it is, wouldn’t the tribes be at least at good at running this school as they are at running casinos? Wouldn’t they take some of the billions of dollars in untaxed profits and throw just a little at the only tribal school in California? Wouldn’t they see that their sons and daughters spent at least as much time at tribal college learning about their heritage as they do at dealer school?
I didn’t think so.
Posted by sharris at 08:01 PM
Blog comments
I appreciate everyone who takes the time to send in comments and I learn quite a bit from those who do.
There has been a problem with the system (now corrected) for the past few days, so if you sent in comments and they are not posted, my apologies. Please resend them and we’ll get them added ASAP.
Again, thank you to all who do take the time – it is appreciated.
Posted by sharris at 09:23 AM
Henry Kissinger
90% of the politicians give the other 10% a bad reputation.
Posted by sharris at 12:03 AM
KKZZ this morning!
If you get a chance this morning, I am starting my weekly radio spot as a “political commenter” for The Connection 1590am.
Every Tuesday at 8:00am, I will spend a few minutes with host Maria Sanchez and her excellent morning talk show.
If your schedule allows – join us!
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 14, 2006
The Pelosi standard
Love her or hate her, there is no denying that California Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi is one of Congresses most liberal, anti-war, anti-Bush members and she takes every opportunity as Minority Leader to make her positions known.
She has become an easy target for Republicans, who use her becoming majority leader as the nightmare scenario, should they lose the house to Democrats this November. Jonathan Collegio, a spokesman for the National Republican Congressional Committee said "Nancy Pelosi is one of the most stridently liberal politicians in recent memory, and insofar as candidates can draw a contrast between their record and Pelosi's record, (she) could emerge as a campaign issue," said.
Now Republican candidates all over the country are running ads that make it appear they are running against Nancy Pelosi, attempting to tar their Democratic candidates with an extreme liberal brush, which plays well in San Francisco, but in few other places throughout the country.
The effort is no different than the Democrats attempt to try and tie each Republican candidate directly to President Bush, whose coattails currently offer very little help. It is sad that both parties continue to focus on the perceived wekaknesses of their opponents party, rather than focusing on their candidates individual strengths.
Posted by sharris at 12:02 AM
Infrastructure
It is my belief that there are five “foundation issues” facing the good people of California; affordable housing, education, healthcare, illegal immigration and infrastructure. There are, of course, no shortage of additional identifiable problems and issues that we are dealing with, but these are the most difficult, long-term, significant issues that we need to face.
Toward that end, I like to identify groups, individuals and organizations that are helping us take forward steps. One of those is the Valley Industry & Commerce Association and their event (October 27) is The Road To Re-Building Our Infrastructure. To learn more about VICA and their event, visit their website.
Infrastructure is critical to our future success and has been overlooked for far too many years. Independent of the debate of where the funds will come from is the fact that if we don’t invest in infrastructure, California is destined to fail.
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 13, 2006
Exit Exam upheld
It’s not often I get to write about a rational decision by a California court, but it happened Friday.
A California state appeals court voted to uphold the high school exit exam, surprising many of us who thought they would find the test discriminatory. Instead, Presiding Judge Ignazio J. Ruvolo wrote...
“Granting diplomas to students who have not proven this proficiency debases the value of the diplomas earned by the overwhelming majority of disadvantaged students who have passed the exams.”
This common sense approach is significant in a couple of ways. First, it takes a huge step forward in creating a sense of value for a California high school diploma. Second, on an even broader scale, perhaps every difficulty encountered by a group of individuals will no longer be considered racist or discriminatory. As a state, we are much stronger if we are able to focus our attention on the real causes of our problems, rather than having to defend ourselves against ridiculous claims.
Congratulations to State Superintendent of Public Education Jack O’Connell (who wrote the original bill introducing exit exams) and everyone else who fought so hard to make this happen. And congratulations to those students who earned their high school diploma.
Posted by sharris at 05:32 AM
Incumbents in trouble
If the only piece of information a voter had was that one candidate was the incumbent and the other was a newcomer, a new poll finds that by 46 percent to 21 percent people say they would be more inclined to vote for the challenger.
Democrats (63 percent) and independents (51 percent) are much more likely than Republicans (22 percent) to say they would vote for the challenger. This is not surprising, since Democrats are out of power and want back in and independents have never understand how to translate their numbers into power.
For those of us who believe that for America to be successful, we need moderates in office (from both parties) and that the vast majority of current elected officials are party ideologues, the idea of an overhaul of elected officials is very appealing. While it remains to be seen in November if this poll represents current levels of frustration or a real movement toward bringing in new blood, it is encouraging nonetheless.
It’s just nice to think, even for a little while, that incumbents have to win elections too☺
Posted by sharris at 12:29 AM
August 12, 2006
LAUSD / Villaraigosa
The Los Angeles City Council agreed unanimously to support Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s plan to reform (take over control) of the Los Angeles Unified School District.
Since it is almost impossible to get the Los Angeles City Council to agree unanimously on anything, much less something controversial and important, this has to be viewed as a significant step.
Now there are many who think this effort is a mistake ( including Ventura County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Charles Weis ), but there are very few (and probably none outside of the district itself) who think LAUSD is doing a good job of educating our children. I am excited simply to see an effort to make a significant change in the way the district runs.
LAUSD has approximately 750,000 students (a population greater than 4 states) a dropout rate somewhere around 50% and no clear plan on how to operate more effectively. Efforts to facilitate real change are stifled by the all-powerful California Teachers Union and frankly; having a Democratic mayor willing to take this challenge on is heartening.
I do not know enough to know if this is a good plan, but at least it’s a plan. Next month on my radio show; California: The Alpha State , State Superintendent of Public Instruction, Jack O’Connell, is one of my guests. You can bet this will be a topic of discussion☺
Posted by sharris at 11:22 AM
TotalCapitol.com
I have recently been made aware of a new website - TotalCapitol.com.
They are building a large online database of California state news, commentary and other resources and it has already proven to be a great source of information for me.
The fact that they have my blog listed under most popular, in no way impacts my opinion of their site and the work they are doing☺
Posted by sharris at 05:28 AM
District Attorney Greg Totten
Today’s California: The Alpha State radio show has Ventura County District Attorney Greg Totten as my guest.
We spend virtually the entire show discussing the Oxnard gang injunction. Why it’s there, what it means, how it has reduced crime and the delicate balance between civil liberties and security. Greg is candid and articulate in explaining his position and why he believes it is a good idea.
In light of his effort last week to add another gang and another city to the injunction list, this is a timely and important show. You can hear it today at 3:30 on News Talk KVTA 1520 am (Ventura County) or at your convenience on my website. Thank you!
Posted by sharris at 05:15 AM
August 11, 2006
KKZZ
Starting this Tuesday (August 15th), I will begin a weekly radio segment as a “political commenter” for The Connection 1590am.
Every Tuesday at 8:00am, I will spend a few minutes with host Maria Sanchez and her excellent morning talk show.
We’ll have nonpartisan discussions regarding policy and politics throughout the state.
While each segment will be available on my website, please try and tune it Tuesdays, 8:00am, to 1590am. Thank you!
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 10, 2006
Iraq and terrorism
I feel fortunate to have a few regular readers of this site. Some have even taken to asking questions on a regular basis. One of those was in reference to one of my Joe Lieberman entries and I was asked…
Could you expand on your comment that Lieberman supports our efforts in Iraq to "end terrorism" and "protect America"? It almost appears from the way this is written that you think Iraq has somehow been involved in terrorism directed against America. I would like to know what evidence you have of this.
The answer leads to a circular argument. Either you believe that Iraq was involved in terrorism and that we are safer as a result of Saddam being gone, or you don’t. There are no arguments I can make here that you have not heard and I am not going to change anyone’s mind. In a way, it’s like a discussion about abortion. Either you believe in life at conception, or you don’t. Once that’s established, the rest follows naturally.
Because I believe Iraq represented a danger to the United States, I believe the war was the right decision and that with Saddam gone, we are a step closer to ending terrorism and making America safer. It’s that simple. Senator Lieberman was defeated Tuesday for having those same beliefs.
NOTE: To the reader who asked this question. I am not able to answer all of your questions in this blog. However, if you send an email address I will be happy to respond to other questions you send. Thank you.
Posted by sharris at 09:03 PM
Radio show no-show
I have had quite a few emails asking which candidate refuses to be on my radio show, California: The Alpha State because they are ahead in the polls and expect to win without having to debate.
I have not identified the candidate, because it was not the point of the entry and frankly it isn’t that important. If this individual was alone in his / her position, I would happily identify them. Unfortunately, this is standard operating procedure for front-runners (of both parties and offices big and small) and the issue is trying to get all candidates to do the right thing, not to embarrass an individual candidate.
However, it is an opportunity for any and all to make phone calls and send letters and emails to all candidates, encouraging them to take a more active role in the process and not shy away from unscripted or even challenging opportunities.
Posted by sharris at 03:44 PM
Constituents first
I invited two candidates to join me on my radio show, California: The Alpha State.
One candidate, the one behind in the polls, readily accepted the invitation. The second candidate, the one leading in the polls, declined to join us. The format is parallel discussion, not debate and it would have given the listeners – future constituents of one of these candidates – an opportunity to hear both candidates at the same time. The candidate – and his campaign manager in another call – explained their refusal to join us with candor.
“We’re ahead – what do we have to gain?”
How about talking to your constituents? How about allowing us to compare the candidates? How about not hiding behind a gerrymandered district that predetermines which party will win. And most of all – how about putting your constituents first?
I believe our candidates should be proud of their ideas and welcome opportunities to discuss the issues in a format that allows voters to make educated choices.
It is a sad commentary when a candidate is afraid to debate an opponent because they have something to lose. I wish our candidates were a bit more concerned about what the constituents had to gain.
There is quite a bit of talk about government-financed elections. I am still researching this and unsure where I stand. However, any approval of government money spent on elections, in my opinion, would have to include mandatory debates. If a candidate cannot stand the heat of a pre-election debate, how can we expect them to stand up to the difficult challenges and battles they will face as our representative?
Posted by sharris at 12:03 AM
American Soldier
I finally made time to read General Tommy Frank’s book, American Soldier which came out back in 2004.
For those who have read it, my bad on not getting to it sooner – but I wish someone had said something! If you haven’t read it yet, maybe now is the time. I have been a General Frank’s fan since the 2004 presidential campaign and I thought then (same as I did with Colin Powell a decade earlier) that this was a man of presidential timbre.
The book confirmed my feelings about General Franks and my hope that he might be a dark horse candidate for either party, or as an independent. A man who values loyalty to country, shows character as an individual and exhibits personal responsibility is hard to find in our elected officials and it’s my belief that General Franks has those characteristics.
Enjoy the book!
Posted by sharris at 12:02 AM
Ronald Reagan
Of the four wars in my lifetime none came about because the U.S. was too strong.
Posted by sharris at 12:01 AM
August 09, 2006
Lieberman loses, America wins
Connecticut Senator Joe Lieberman lost the Democratic primary yesterday.
Senator Lieberman has already announced that he will run as an independent Democrat in November and polls have him winning the election and keeping his seat. I think Democrats blew this by throwing away one of the nations few moderates and Connecticut blew it by attempting to replace a respected long time Senator with a neophyte, simply because they have their knickers in a knot because the Senator supports our troops and our effort in Iraq to end terrorism and protect America.
What is exciting is that should Lieberman win in November, as an independent, it will begin to break the stranglehold parties have by maintaining the closed primary system.
By winning as an independent, without party support, Lieberman will force voters and parties to rethink the system we have chosen to live with. The best way to encourage moderates to run (from both parties) and for them to have a realistic chance to win is to allow open primaries and for registered voters to vote for the candidate of their choice, regardless of party.
Senator Lieberman – good luck in November!
Posted by sharris at 09:13 PM
Senator Joe Lieberman
"The old politics of polarization won today. For the sake of our state, our country and my party, I cannot and will not let that result stand."
Posted by sharris at 07:28 AM
August 08, 2006
Rights and Liberties
A regular reader and contributor to this blog asks…
Why is there always discussion on civil liberties and rarely on civil rights? I would be curious to hear your thoughts on this.
Civil liberties are defined as: Fundamental individual rights, such as freedom of speech and religion, protected by law against unwarranted governmental or other interference.
Civil rights are defined as: The rights belonging to an individual by virtue of citizenship, especially the fundamental freedoms and privileges guaranteed by the 13th and 14th Amendments to the U.S. Constitution and by subsequent acts of Congress, including civil liberties, due process, equal protection of the laws, and freedom from discrimination.
I’m not sure there is a shortage of discussion on either issue. Civil rights are laws enacted to ensure that every United States citizen shares the same civil liberties. While the laws apply to all Americans, they were enacted primarily in response to blacks and women and the civil liberties they were denied for so many years.
What we don’t hear enough conversation about is civic responsibility. A bit more of that would go a long way to reminding us that civil rights are hard earned and without a collective effort as a society, they will disappear.
Posted by sharris at 09:17 PM
August 07, 2006
Sunday column
Yesterday’s column in the Ventura County Star addressed the value of informed voters over any voter and in particular the danger of initiatives like the one happening Arizona that wants to turn election day into a statewide lottery.
Your thoughts on trying to increase the number of quality voters, rather than simply the quantity of voters are encouraged!
Posted by sharris at 07:31 AM
Sierra Club
I was asked by a reader (and frequent commenter – thank you) about a comment they left Saturday in response to my One-Way Fanaticism entry.
They asked if the Sierra Club would qualify as fanatics because of their strong “anti-business’ position. While I’m certain the organization has its share of single-minded devotees, it is not the same thing as the media; for two reasons.
First, the Sierra Club does not portray itself as an unbiased organization, as almost all media outlets do.
Second, we need groups of passion, on both sides of issues, to help the rest of us understand the issues and the implications of various actions / inactions. It is then up to moderates to reach a reasonable compromise and in a perfect world; those moderates would be our elected officials. The problems start when single-minded extremists are elected to office and rather than work hard for compromise solutions, they focus only on their agenda.
Posted by sharris at 07:25 AM
August 05, 2006
One-way fanaticism?
Not a day does not go by without the press identifying “right-wing religious fanatics”, or the less inflammatory version, “the religious right”. Why I have I never read the term “left-wing atheist fanatics”, or even “atheist left”?
It can’t be because all leftists are not atheists, because by the same token, all conservatives are not religious. If it’s fair for the press to assume that most conservatives are religious, isn’t it also fair to assume that most liberals are not? If that’s not the case, why only refer to the religious right?
If atheist is too strong of a term, how about “agnostic left”?
Not a day does not go by without the press identifying “right-wing religious fanatics”, or the less inflammatory version, “the religious right”. Why I have I never read the term “left-wing atheist fanatics”, or even “atheist left”?
It can’t be because all leftists are not atheists, because by the same token, all conservatives are not religious. If it’s fair for the press to assume that most conservatives are religious, isn’t it also fair to assume that most liberals are not? If that’s not the case, why only refer to the religious right?
If atheist is too strong of a term, how about “agnostic left”?
I look forward to your response and insight because I am left with a haunting feeling that there might be a slight leaning leftward in the press and I have been assured that that is not the case.
Posted by sharris at 12:53 AM
August 04, 2006
Ronald Reagan
Here's my strategy on the Cold War: We win, they lose.
Posted by sharris at 12:45 AM
California: The Alpha State
My new radio show debuted this past Saturday with a terrific interview with Ventura County Supervisor Judy Mikels.
Tomorrow’s show has Ventura County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Charles Weis as our guest. Dr. Weis talks about exit exams, workforce preparation and Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa's effort to take control of the Los Angeles Unified School District.
Upcoming guests include Ventura County District Attorney Greg Totten, economic development experts Bruce Ackerman and Bill Buratto and Assemblyman Keith Richman.
You can catch the show Saturdays at 3:30 on News Talk 1520 KVTA in Ventura County or you can listen now at our website . Thank you!
Posted by sharris at 12:21 AM
August 03, 2006
Sharpton assists Leiberman
Readers of this blog know that I respect Senator Joe Lieberman and hope that he wins reelection and maintains his seat as the senior Connecticut Senator.
He took a giant step forward this week when the Reverend Al Sharpton endorsed Lieberman’s opponent, businessman Ned Lamont. If the only thing I knew about two candidates was that Reverend Sharpton endorsed one and not the other, I would pick the non-endorsed candidate. In my mind, a Reverend Sharpton endorsement on the left is the same as a David Duke (former Klan leader) endorsement is on the right.
Good luck Mr. Lieberman and thank you Reverend Sharpton!
Posted by sharris at 12:52 AM
Media litmus test
If you’re curious as to whether a news outlet (print or electronic) is liberal or conservative, here’s a simple test.
Did their headlines say, “Israel attacks Hezbollah” (conservative) or “Israel attacks Lebanon” (liberal)? Simple and accurate.
Posted by sharris at 12:07 AM
August 02, 2006
What do Senators Feinstein and Boxer want?
On Tuesday, the United States Senate voted to allow offshore drilling for oil. The debate continues and the House will now take a look at approving, expanding or killing the bill.
Not surprisingly, but disappointingly, both California Senators voted against the bill, which was approved overwhelmingly by a bipartisan vote of 71-25.
At some point, even their staunchest supporters have to wonder about people who….
• Decry the Iraq war as oil and greed motivated
• Complain about the cost of oil
• Will not allow nuclear plants to be developed
• And refuse to allow oil exploration or drilling
Other than say no, no, no – what exactly is their plan?
Posted by sharris at 07:36 AM
Head of State
It was heartening to see Governor Schwarzenegger sign an agreement with British Prime Minister Tony Blair this week. They have agreed that Great Britain and the State of California will work together to research global warming, attempt to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and to promote clean burning fuels. While I’m not yet convinced about the dangers of global warming, enough serious people are and coming on the heels of a heat wave that killed scores of Californians, it makes sense to continue to explore and research the theory.
What is more exciting is to see the respect given to California and our governor by one of the world’s most courageous leaders – Tony Blair. It was also good to see the head of our state (the world’s 6th largest economy) acting like a Head of State. It is important for the future of California that we move forward with the initiatives that we believe are in our best interest, independent of – but not detrimental to – the rest of the country.
To compete in an increasingly small and agile world, we need to move quickly and decisively. To maintain our position as the nations most important state, we need to make decisions that reflect that commitment. The Governor has taken those steps and the Prime Minster has acknowledged their significance. It is difficult to believe he would have signed a similar pact with Delaware or North Dakota. Here’s to California!
Posted by sharris at 06:54 AM
August 01, 2006
Senator Boxer shows her stuff
For those who wonder why many of us are embarrassed that Senator Barbara Boxer represents this state, last week provided another example as to why.
When Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri Kamal al-Maliki spoke last Wednesday to the United States Congress, in a speech that many considered important, missing from the audience was California Senator Barbara Boxer.
Senator Boxer determined in advance that what the Prime Minster al-Maliki had to say was not worth listening to. The single most important issue facing this nation, in fact the entire world, is Muslim extremism. The focal point for this issue is Iraq and the man who runs that country – our ally - was here to address our nations leaders. Senator Boxer could not be bothered to attend, knowing in advance (in that’s special way she has of not needing facts to make decisions) that she would disagree with at least part of what he had to say and that to show her displeasure – and maturity – she would simply not attend.
What she had to do that could possibly have been more important for that hour is unimaginable. While many applauded her resolute effort to not risk opening her mind or better understand the mind of Prime Minister al-Maliki, I find it to be a dereliction of duty – another in a series of embarrassing actions and inactions from Senator Boxer.
Disagreeing with the president in principle and in fact is not necessarily wrong. Avoiding an opportunity to learn, to represent the people of California and to offer at least some measure of support for the first elected Prime Minister in the history of Iraq – is wrong.
Posted by sharris at 12:28 AM
Comments please
I have been pleasantly surprised by the number of people I run into who volunteer that they read my blog on a regular basis.
First and foremost – let me say thank you.
Second, allow me to ask you to post a few comments. I learn quite a bit from the reaction of you the reader and would enjoy reading even more.
Thank you!
Posted by sharris at 12:13 AM
