Today, The A-Team will be released in movie theatres across North America.
I have no intention of seeing it.
So why do I mention it?
Well, because one cannot talk about the movie without talking about the TV series from which it was spawned.
The A-Team (the TV series) was remarkable in that featured not one but two conservatives in its cast - Dirk Benedict as Face and Dwight Schultz as Murdock.
As it happens both of them are very engaging writers thanks to Andrew Breitbart. Here is an article Benedict wrote last year about his earlier role as Lt. Starbuck on the original Battlestar Galactica and how he characterized the updated version of the show as "bleak, miserable, despairing, angry and confused."
Shortly after Benedict's article came out, Schultz wrote a piece about what it is like to be a conservative actor in liberal Hollywood. Let's just say that he doesn't paint a very pleasant picture. The late Paul Newman was a notable exception to the rule.
At the time that Schultz wrote the article he hadn't been on camera since 2001 although he was getting steady work doing voiceovers. He does, however, have a cameo in The A-Team movie. So at least one good thing has come out of the movie.
Friday, June 11, 2010
Abby Sunderland is Alive & Well
An Australian search and rescue plane has located Abby Sunderland, the 16-year-old who is attempting to become the youngest person to sail around the world solo.
Sunderland was unharmed. However, her boat Wild Eyes sustained damage caused by waves up to 30 feet. Her sail is in the water and the mast has been damaged but the keel is in tact and has not taken on water. However, the boat cannot sail. It can only drift and thus she is at the mercy of the ocean. It is expected that a search and rescue boat should reach her sometime tomorrow though.
Of course, the question is now whether she will continue her expedition. Needless to say, repairs will have to made to her boat as they were after she landed in Cape Town last month. I am sure that if she chooses to resume her journey there will be howls of anger along the lines of, "What if they have to rescue her again?"
But Sunderland has done everything any other sailor would do if they were in her position. I don't think Sunderland's nautical skills are the issue here. Unfortunately, I think there are too many people who can't see past her age and her gender.
Sunderland was unharmed. However, her boat Wild Eyes sustained damage caused by waves up to 30 feet. Her sail is in the water and the mast has been damaged but the keel is in tact and has not taken on water. However, the boat cannot sail. It can only drift and thus she is at the mercy of the ocean. It is expected that a search and rescue boat should reach her sometime tomorrow though.
Of course, the question is now whether she will continue her expedition. Needless to say, repairs will have to made to her boat as they were after she landed in Cape Town last month. I am sure that if she chooses to resume her journey there will be howls of anger along the lines of, "What if they have to rescue her again?"
But Sunderland has done everything any other sailor would do if they were in her position. I don't think Sunderland's nautical skills are the issue here. Unfortunately, I think there are too many people who can't see past her age and her gender.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Abby Sunderland Disappears
Abby Sunderland, who is attempting to become the youngest person to sail around the world solo, has apparently disappeared somewhere in the Indian Ocean. A search and rescue mission has commenced.
Her family has been unable to establish radio contact with the 16-year-old after she sent two distress signals.
If Sunderland cannot be found there will undoubtedly be an international outcry to ban this sort of activity. At the very minimum, the efforts to stop 14-year-old Laura Dekker from her own around the world solo expedition. At present, Dekker is a ward of the Dutch court until July 1st. However, Dutch child protective services are petitioning the court to extend their custody of Dekker. A hearing is scheduled to take place on June 17th. Should Sunderland still be missing by that date I would be shocked if the Dutch court didn't grant the petition.
In July 2009, Sunderland's older brother Zac briefly became the youngest to sail around the world solo when he was 17-years old. The following month British sailor Michael Perham eclipsed that record. Then last month, Australian Jessica Watson claimed the record when she sailed into Sydney Harbor greeted by Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. She arrived three days shy of her 17th birthday after having sailed non-stop for nearly seven months.
Sunderland's expedition has had difficulty from the outset. She initially set sail in January but aborted this attempt just over a week due to inadequate equipment on her boat. Sunderland launched her second attempt in February and sailed non-stop for nearly 2½ months until repairs forced her to land in Cape Town in May. While that put an end to her objective of sailing non-stop she still intended to sail around the world. Sunderland resumed her journey three weeks ago.
Obviously, I hope she is found alive and well. But if not I think we ought to keep in mind that neither she nor her parents had any illusions that this was going to be a walk in the park. They knew what they were getting into.
Her family has been unable to establish radio contact with the 16-year-old after she sent two distress signals.
If Sunderland cannot be found there will undoubtedly be an international outcry to ban this sort of activity. At the very minimum, the efforts to stop 14-year-old Laura Dekker from her own around the world solo expedition. At present, Dekker is a ward of the Dutch court until July 1st. However, Dutch child protective services are petitioning the court to extend their custody of Dekker. A hearing is scheduled to take place on June 17th. Should Sunderland still be missing by that date I would be shocked if the Dutch court didn't grant the petition.
In July 2009, Sunderland's older brother Zac briefly became the youngest to sail around the world solo when he was 17-years old. The following month British sailor Michael Perham eclipsed that record. Then last month, Australian Jessica Watson claimed the record when she sailed into Sydney Harbor greeted by Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd. She arrived three days shy of her 17th birthday after having sailed non-stop for nearly seven months.
Sunderland's expedition has had difficulty from the outset. She initially set sail in January but aborted this attempt just over a week due to inadequate equipment on her boat. Sunderland launched her second attempt in February and sailed non-stop for nearly 2½ months until repairs forced her to land in Cape Town in May. While that put an end to her objective of sailing non-stop she still intended to sail around the world. Sunderland resumed her journey three weeks ago.
Obviously, I hope she is found alive and well. But if not I think we ought to keep in mind that neither she nor her parents had any illusions that this was going to be a walk in the park. They knew what they were getting into.
Is Geert Wilders is the Most Powerful Man in Holland?
While Geert Wilders won't be Holland's next Prime Minister for the moment he is the most powerful man in the Netherlands.
Last night, Dutch voters ousted Jan Peter Balkenende's Christian Democrats after eight years in office.
The Balkenende government fell last February when the Dutch Parliament could not agree on extending the deployment of troops in Afghanistan. After the election results came in, Balkenende resigned as party leader as well as his seat in parliament.
Wilders' Freedom Party won 24 seats in the new Dutch Parliament. Wilders stated, "More security, less crime, less immigration, less Islam -- that is what the Netherlands has chosen."
Only the Liberals and Labor Party won more seats with 31 and 30, respectively.
Wilders is being touted as a potential kingmaker. However, it is also not inconceivable that the Liberals and Labor could form a coalition with either the ousted Christian Democrats or with the smaller left-wing parties (Socialists and Democrats 66) and leave Wilders out in the cold. But that could be to his benefit if a new coalition does not properly address the country's currently dire fiscal situation and forces another election.
I had the opportunity to meet Wilders when he spoke in the Boston area in February 2009.
Last night, Dutch voters ousted Jan Peter Balkenende's Christian Democrats after eight years in office.
The Balkenende government fell last February when the Dutch Parliament could not agree on extending the deployment of troops in Afghanistan. After the election results came in, Balkenende resigned as party leader as well as his seat in parliament.
Wilders' Freedom Party won 24 seats in the new Dutch Parliament. Wilders stated, "More security, less crime, less immigration, less Islam -- that is what the Netherlands has chosen."
Only the Liberals and Labor Party won more seats with 31 and 30, respectively.
Wilders is being touted as a potential kingmaker. However, it is also not inconceivable that the Liberals and Labor could form a coalition with either the ousted Christian Democrats or with the smaller left-wing parties (Socialists and Democrats 66) and leave Wilders out in the cold. But that could be to his benefit if a new coalition does not properly address the country's currently dire fiscal situation and forces another election.
I had the opportunity to meet Wilders when he spoke in the Boston area in February 2009.
Crispian St. Peters, 1939-2010. R.I.P.
Singer Crispian St. Peters died yesterday after a lengthy illness. He was 71.
The British born Peters was best known for his 1966 transatlantic hit "The Pied Piper."
Although he continued to enjoy a successful career in the UK, "The Pied Piper" was his only hit in North America.
I had not realized he had recorded a version of "You Were On My Mind" which was a big hit for the We Five in 1965. "You Were On My Mind" was written by Sylvia Fricker. If you are unfamiliar with Ms. Fricker she would marry Ian Tyson and become one half of Ian & Sylvia.
They sure don't make music like this anymore.
The British born Peters was best known for his 1966 transatlantic hit "The Pied Piper."
Although he continued to enjoy a successful career in the UK, "The Pied Piper" was his only hit in North America.
I had not realized he had recorded a version of "You Were On My Mind" which was a big hit for the We Five in 1965. "You Were On My Mind" was written by Sylvia Fricker. If you are unfamiliar with Ms. Fricker she would marry Ian Tyson and become one half of Ian & Sylvia.
They sure don't make music like this anymore.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Blackhawks Win First Stanley Cup in 49 Years
Congratulations to the Chicago Blackhawks.
They defeated the Philadelphia Flyers 4-3 in Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final giving the Hawks their first trophy since 1961. It represented the longest championship drought in the NHL.
However, their drought pales in comparison next to the Chicago Cubs who haven't won a World Series since 1908. In fact, the Cubs haven't been to a World Series since 1945.
Still, it's good to see an "original six" team win Lord Stanley's Cup.
They defeated the Philadelphia Flyers 4-3 in Game 6 of the Stanley Cup Final giving the Hawks their first trophy since 1961. It represented the longest championship drought in the NHL.
However, their drought pales in comparison next to the Chicago Cubs who haven't won a World Series since 1908. In fact, the Cubs haven't been to a World Series since 1945.
Still, it's good to see an "original six" team win Lord Stanley's Cup.
Boycott T-Mobile! The boycott is over
Oct. 1, 2010 update: T-Mobile has refunded the contract termination fee they charged me for ending service with them. It took an intervention by a friend who knew someone high-level within the company. But since I have gotten the result I have sought, which was a refund of the wrongful contract termination fee, I am removing the Boycott T-Mobile banners from my websites.
If you're thinking about going with T-Mobile for cell phone service - DON'T. After what I've been through with them the last few months, I've figured out their customer service attitude right now is one of the worst among phone companies. If you get a bad phone, one that was released before most major technical glitches were worked out of it, they will not let you out of the contract until you've exchanged the phone at least three times. If you thought you would resolve all of the problems eventually so you didn't return it within the 30-day window, you're out of luck and they will not let you out of it, no matter how many letters you send back and forth and how much evidence you provide that the phone is a dud.
The Motorola Cliq phone I purchased from them dropped calls constantly - 58 times in one month I checked, including five times during one single call to a landline (see documentation below)! It "ghost-dialed" numbers several times a week. It would be sitting on my desk and randomly start dialing people who had recently called me - including a stalker and a job interview. It ghost-dialed a friend of mine at least three times in one afternoon. Others have reported this problem. I returned the phone and the new model continued to have the same problem, although not quite as often.
I never was able to get my email account to work, another known glitch with the phone, even after an hour on the phone with their tech support, which couldn't figure it out either. I spent easily over 25 hours trying to get the technical glitches with the phone fixed. There were many other technical glitches, too many to list here.
T-Mobile refused to let me out of the contract no matter what, even after I contacted the Better Business Bureau, and even though there is plenty of information on the internet about the terrible problems with this phone. I have sent them two long letters, which I CC'd to the company president, detailing the problems and a spreadsheet of the dropped calls. Now they are coming after me trying to charge me a $303 contract termination fee. Their approach was to blame me, the customer, accusing me of not spending enough time with their tech support and not canceling within the first 30 days, and telling me that many dropped calls was normal! Never mind the fact my phone prior to that with them never dropped calls.
If this is the way they want to do business, I think the public has a right to know. I would advise everyone to stay away from this company and stick with Sprint or another company that does not instruct their employees to use this aggressive way of going after their own customers. There is a certain level of service that is completely unacceptable by the vast majority in society's standards, and to go below that level is to commit contract breach.
Here is what someone else had to say about this phone:
If you're thinking about going with T-Mobile for cell phone service - DON'T. After what I've been through with them the last few months, I've figured out their customer service attitude right now is one of the worst among phone companies. If you get a bad phone, one that was released before most major technical glitches were worked out of it, they will not let you out of the contract until you've exchanged the phone at least three times. If you thought you would resolve all of the problems eventually so you didn't return it within the 30-day window, you're out of luck and they will not let you out of it, no matter how many letters you send back and forth and how much evidence you provide that the phone is a dud.
The Motorola Cliq phone I purchased from them dropped calls constantly - 58 times in one month I checked, including five times during one single call to a landline (see documentation below)! It "ghost-dialed" numbers several times a week. It would be sitting on my desk and randomly start dialing people who had recently called me - including a stalker and a job interview. It ghost-dialed a friend of mine at least three times in one afternoon. Others have reported this problem. I returned the phone and the new model continued to have the same problem, although not quite as often.
I never was able to get my email account to work, another known glitch with the phone, even after an hour on the phone with their tech support, which couldn't figure it out either. I spent easily over 25 hours trying to get the technical glitches with the phone fixed. There were many other technical glitches, too many to list here.
T-Mobile refused to let me out of the contract no matter what, even after I contacted the Better Business Bureau, and even though there is plenty of information on the internet about the terrible problems with this phone. I have sent them two long letters, which I CC'd to the company president, detailing the problems and a spreadsheet of the dropped calls. Now they are coming after me trying to charge me a $303 contract termination fee. Their approach was to blame me, the customer, accusing me of not spending enough time with their tech support and not canceling within the first 30 days, and telling me that many dropped calls was normal! Never mind the fact my phone prior to that with them never dropped calls.
If this is the way they want to do business, I think the public has a right to know. I would advise everyone to stay away from this company and stick with Sprint or another company that does not instruct their employees to use this aggressive way of going after their own customers. There is a certain level of service that is completely unacceptable by the vast majority in society's standards, and to go below that level is to commit contract breach.
Here is what someone else had to say about this phone:
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Rex Murphy Ridicules UN Over Israel
If you are not Canadian or otherwise unfamiliar with Canadian print or broadcast journalism then you are probably unfamiliar with Rex Murphy.
He has been a fixture on CBC Television's The National and CBC Radio's Cross Country Check Up for many years and is also a newspaper columnist for The National Post.
In his most recent column, Murphy takes on the hypocrisy of the United Nations when it comes to Israel:
I don't suppose the world needs to remember Rwanda to note how sluggish in the face of imminent horror the United Nations is and can be. If that is not a sufficient cue, we could bring in other examples of areas of great threat or immiseration or both: Darfur, Tibet, Chechnya, North Korea, Zimbabwe, the Congo or Iran. On these the UN has the patience of a stone but only some of its energy.
But torpid as is its nature, and comatose as are its eternal deliberations, on one subject, and toward one state, the United Nations acquires a strange and uniquely transformative power. Bring Israel under its gaze and the diplomatic sloths at UN headquarters morph into the swiftest of gazelles. From lotus-eaters to adrenalin junkies in the twinkling of an eye. Quite amazing, really.
And quite brilliantly devastating.
For more Murphy, here he is commenting last year on Climategate.
He has been a fixture on CBC Television's The National and CBC Radio's Cross Country Check Up for many years and is also a newspaper columnist for The National Post.
In his most recent column, Murphy takes on the hypocrisy of the United Nations when it comes to Israel:
I don't suppose the world needs to remember Rwanda to note how sluggish in the face of imminent horror the United Nations is and can be. If that is not a sufficient cue, we could bring in other examples of areas of great threat or immiseration or both: Darfur, Tibet, Chechnya, North Korea, Zimbabwe, the Congo or Iran. On these the UN has the patience of a stone but only some of its energy.
But torpid as is its nature, and comatose as are its eternal deliberations, on one subject, and toward one state, the United Nations acquires a strange and uniquely transformative power. Bring Israel under its gaze and the diplomatic sloths at UN headquarters morph into the swiftest of gazelles. From lotus-eaters to adrenalin junkies in the twinkling of an eye. Quite amazing, really.
And quite brilliantly devastating.
For more Murphy, here he is commenting last year on Climategate.
Strasburg Strikes Out 14 in MLB Debut
So much for that rough outing I predicted for Stephen Strasburg.
Strasburg made an extraordinary splash in his MLB debut tonight. The 21-year-old righthander struck out 14 batters over seven innings pitched giving the Washington Nationals a 5-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The only blemish against Strasburg was when he gave up a two run homerun to Pirates rightfielder Delwyn Young in the top of the fourth which gave the Bucs a 2-1 lead. But he didn't let that get him down. Strasburg then retired the final ten hitters he faced striking out eight of them. In fact, Strasburg struck out the final seven batters who came to the plate against him.
Perhaps even more remarkable than Strasburg's 14 strikeouts was that he did not walk a single batter. He knew what he wanted to do with the ball whether he threw a fastball, curveball, change up or slider. His curveball might be his best pitch. I'm not sure his curve is as good as Bert Blyleven or Doc Gooden's but it's good enough.
Strasburg also worked very fast. The game was completed in only two hours and nineteen minutes.
Washington got four of their five runs via the homerun. Ryan Zimmerman hit a solo homerun in the bottom of the first while Adam Dunn and Josh Willingham hit back to back homeruns in the bottom of the sixth to give the Nats the lead for good.
The other compelling story line this game was Nats closer Matt Capps. He came on in the ninth to nail down his NL leading 19th save. This had to be his most satisfying save of the year as it came against a club that unceremoniously declined to offer him a contract for the 2010 season. Capps was absolutely pumped especially after he crossed the first base bag to record the final out of the game.
Given Strasburg's magnificent debut the Nationals can expect more sell out crowds this season even if they don't climb out of the cellar in the NL East. In fact, this will also benefit other major league clubs when the Nats come visiting. Strasburg's next start is expected to come this Sunday at Progressive Field in Cleveland. The Tribe has the lowest average attendance in MLB.
An appearance by Strasburg could return baseball in Cleveland to the glory days of the mid to late 1990s when Jacobs Field (as it was then known) was sold out night after night - even if only for one night.
Even if the Washington Nationals finish in last place this is going to be one fun summer for Nats fans.
Strasburg made an extraordinary splash in his MLB debut tonight. The 21-year-old righthander struck out 14 batters over seven innings pitched giving the Washington Nationals a 5-2 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates.
The only blemish against Strasburg was when he gave up a two run homerun to Pirates rightfielder Delwyn Young in the top of the fourth which gave the Bucs a 2-1 lead. But he didn't let that get him down. Strasburg then retired the final ten hitters he faced striking out eight of them. In fact, Strasburg struck out the final seven batters who came to the plate against him.
Perhaps even more remarkable than Strasburg's 14 strikeouts was that he did not walk a single batter. He knew what he wanted to do with the ball whether he threw a fastball, curveball, change up or slider. His curveball might be his best pitch. I'm not sure his curve is as good as Bert Blyleven or Doc Gooden's but it's good enough.
Strasburg also worked very fast. The game was completed in only two hours and nineteen minutes.
Washington got four of their five runs via the homerun. Ryan Zimmerman hit a solo homerun in the bottom of the first while Adam Dunn and Josh Willingham hit back to back homeruns in the bottom of the sixth to give the Nats the lead for good.
The other compelling story line this game was Nats closer Matt Capps. He came on in the ninth to nail down his NL leading 19th save. This had to be his most satisfying save of the year as it came against a club that unceremoniously declined to offer him a contract for the 2010 season. Capps was absolutely pumped especially after he crossed the first base bag to record the final out of the game.
Given Strasburg's magnificent debut the Nationals can expect more sell out crowds this season even if they don't climb out of the cellar in the NL East. In fact, this will also benefit other major league clubs when the Nats come visiting. Strasburg's next start is expected to come this Sunday at Progressive Field in Cleveland. The Tribe has the lowest average attendance in MLB.
An appearance by Strasburg could return baseball in Cleveland to the glory days of the mid to late 1990s when Jacobs Field (as it was then known) was sold out night after night - even if only for one night.
Even if the Washington Nationals finish in last place this is going to be one fun summer for Nats fans.
Prediction: Pirates Will Spoil Strasburg's Debut
It's not often that a Tuesday night game between the Washington Nationals and the Pittsburgh Pirates is the talk of baseball.
But tonight marks the MLB debut of Stephen Strasburg almost a year to the day he was the number one pick in the 2009 MLB Draft by the Washington Nationals.
Strasburg has enjoyed a meteoric rise through the minor leagues. Perhaps too meteoric. The Nats are in last place in the NL East (albeit only six games back of the Atlanta Braves) and need people to fill seats in Nationals Park.
I don't deny that Strasburg has tremendous talent and could very well become a good major league pitcher. But to treat him like he's the second coming of Sandy Koufax is a bit much.
So here's my prediction. Strasburg will pitch four and two thirds innings, give up seven runs on ten hits. Pirates catcher Ryan Doumit will hit two homeruns off of Strasburg. He'll strike out five batters and walk two. Final score: Pirates 10 Nationals 7.
The Baltimore Sun is a tad more optimistic.
We'll see in about an hour or so.
UPDATE: Well, Doumit isn't in the starting lineup for the Bucs. But I do think Andrew McCutchen and ex-Nat Lastings Milledge will go deep off Strasburg. Again, we'll see.
But tonight marks the MLB debut of Stephen Strasburg almost a year to the day he was the number one pick in the 2009 MLB Draft by the Washington Nationals.
Strasburg has enjoyed a meteoric rise through the minor leagues. Perhaps too meteoric. The Nats are in last place in the NL East (albeit only six games back of the Atlanta Braves) and need people to fill seats in Nationals Park.
I don't deny that Strasburg has tremendous talent and could very well become a good major league pitcher. But to treat him like he's the second coming of Sandy Koufax is a bit much.
So here's my prediction. Strasburg will pitch four and two thirds innings, give up seven runs on ten hits. Pirates catcher Ryan Doumit will hit two homeruns off of Strasburg. He'll strike out five batters and walk two. Final score: Pirates 10 Nationals 7.
The Baltimore Sun is a tad more optimistic.
We'll see in about an hour or so.
UPDATE: Well, Doumit isn't in the starting lineup for the Bucs. But I do think Andrew McCutchen and ex-Nat Lastings Milledge will go deep off Strasburg. Again, we'll see.
Obama: "Petty, Petulant & Tinny"
"But I have never seen Obama look and sound more petty, petulant and tinny."
Are these the words of Rush Limbaugh?
No.
Are these the words of Glenn Beck?
No.
Are these the words of Charles Krauthammer?
No.
These are the words of David Zurawik, the left-wing television critic for The Baltimore Sun. Today, Zurawik writes a scathing assessment of President Obama's interview with Matt Lauer on The Today Show:
Obama's big problem isn't that he can't act decisively, can't emote on cue for the cameras, trusts experts too much or that he defers excessively to CEOs. His problem -- and it is starting to look like a genuine fatal flaw -- is that he can't take criticism, particularly from the press, which he seems to have an unnatural and Nixon-like hostility toward. And this interview with Lauer showed that all too clearly.
Now whether this fatal flaw will be fatal to Obama's presidency remains to be seen.
But you can judge the interview for yourself.
Are these the words of Rush Limbaugh?
No.
Are these the words of Glenn Beck?
No.
Are these the words of Charles Krauthammer?
No.
These are the words of David Zurawik, the left-wing television critic for The Baltimore Sun. Today, Zurawik writes a scathing assessment of President Obama's interview with Matt Lauer on The Today Show:
Obama's big problem isn't that he can't act decisively, can't emote on cue for the cameras, trusts experts too much or that he defers excessively to CEOs. His problem -- and it is starting to look like a genuine fatal flaw -- is that he can't take criticism, particularly from the press, which he seems to have an unnatural and Nixon-like hostility toward. And this interview with Lauer showed that all too clearly.
Now whether this fatal flaw will be fatal to Obama's presidency remains to be seen.
But you can judge the interview for yourself.
Why Helen Thomas Had To Go
Yesterday, Charles Krauthammer made the case that Helen Thomas ought not to have been compelled into sudden retirement.
But I think the White House Press Corps was left with no choice for two reasons.
First, she brought disrepute to their organization. Her continued presence would have been a distraction. It also might have left the public with the impression they were in solidarity with her point of view.
Second, if racism is an unacceptable form of public discourse then so is anti-Semitism. While anti-Semitism is fashionable in Europe and the Muslim world we are neither Europe nor the Muslim world. I would further argue that anti-Semitism is anti-American.
With that perhaps Thomas can find work with Al Jazeera.
But I think the White House Press Corps was left with no choice for two reasons.
First, she brought disrepute to their organization. Her continued presence would have been a distraction. It also might have left the public with the impression they were in solidarity with her point of view.
Second, if racism is an unacceptable form of public discourse then so is anti-Semitism. While anti-Semitism is fashionable in Europe and the Muslim world we are neither Europe nor the Muslim world. I would further argue that anti-Semitism is anti-American.
With that perhaps Thomas can find work with Al Jazeera.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Neither Obama Nor Cameron Issue a D-Day Statement
When you consider that more American and British soldiers were killed during the D-Day invasion than have been killed in Afghanistan, I am disappointed that neither President Obama nor British Prime Minister David Cameron saw fit to issue a statement on the 66th anniversary of D-Day.
Fortunately, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper did issue a D-Day statement.
Now I know Obama made a D-Day speech last year at Omaha Beach. But it's important for Obama to acknowledge the significance of our sacrifice on the Beaches of Normandy even when there are no cameras around.
Fortunately, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper did issue a D-Day statement.
Now I know Obama made a D-Day speech last year at Omaha Beach. But it's important for Obama to acknowledge the significance of our sacrifice on the Beaches of Normandy even when there are no cameras around.
Friday, June 4, 2010
John Wooden, 1910-2010. R.I.P.
John Wooden, the legendary head coach of the UCLA Mens' Basketball Team, has died at the age of 99.
At the helm of the Bruin for more than a quarter century, Wooden is arguably the greatest college basketball coach of all time. He guided the UCLA Bruins to ten NCAA championships in twelve years. In four of those seasons, the Bruins were undefeated. At one point, the Bruins won 88 consecutive games. He abruptly retired in 1975 after becoming the first person to be inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame both as a player and a coach.
When you look at some of Wooden's quotes you immediately sense they are deeply rooted in scripture. For your consideration:
"Never mistake activity for achievement."
"Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are."
"You can't let praise or criticism get to you. It's a weakness to get caught up in either one."
"A coach is someone who can give correction without causing resentment."
Wooden is now gone. But his wisdom remains if we choose to receive it.
At the helm of the Bruin for more than a quarter century, Wooden is arguably the greatest college basketball coach of all time. He guided the UCLA Bruins to ten NCAA championships in twelve years. In four of those seasons, the Bruins were undefeated. At one point, the Bruins won 88 consecutive games. He abruptly retired in 1975 after becoming the first person to be inducted into the Basketball Hall of Fame both as a player and a coach.
When you look at some of Wooden's quotes you immediately sense they are deeply rooted in scripture. For your consideration:
"Never mistake activity for achievement."
"Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are."
"You can't let praise or criticism get to you. It's a weakness to get caught up in either one."
"A coach is someone who can give correction without causing resentment."
Wooden is now gone. But his wisdom remains if we choose to receive it.
Orioles Fire Trembley; Name Samuel Interim Manager
The Baltimore Orioles have fired manager Dave Trembley.
Frankly, I'm surprised he held on for as long as he did.
The Orioles' 15-39 record is the worst in MLB. They are 21 games behind the Tampa Bay Rays in the AL East. They got off to a 2-16 start but then went through a three week stretch where they played above .500 ball. However, since May 15th, they have gone 3-15 and are in the midst of an eight game losing streak.
Injuries to key players such as Brian Roberts haven't helped. But players like Nick Markakis and Adam Jones are underachieving and their pitching staff is awful. It isn't all Trembley's fault but the O's have gone as far as they were going to go under him. Trembley took over as Orioles manager in June 2007 after Sam Perlozzo was fired.
Meanwhile, third base coach Juan Samuel has been named interim manager. Samuel played in the big leagues for 16 seasons mostly with the Philadelphia Phillies. He also played with the New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, Kansas City Royals (twice), Cincinnati Reds, Detroit Tigers and the Toronto Blue Jays.
Samuel was a second baseman who could hit. He was runner up to Dwight Gooden for NL Rookie of the Year in 1984. Early in his career, Samuel could run. In his rookie season he would steal 72 bases. His best season came in 1987 when he hit .272 with 28 home runs and 100 RBI. Like many Dominican players, he did not walk much. He also struck out a lot and led the NL in strikeouts for four consecutive seasons.
When Samuel's hitting declined he became a dependable bench player who could play a variety of positions. With more time on the bench, Samuel developed an interest in coaching. He was a part of the Tigers coaching staff from 1999 to 2005. His only managerial experience came in 2006 when he managed the Binghamton Mets of the Double AA Eastern League. He would join the Orioles organization the following season.
I'd like to see Samuel given a chance to become the O's permanent manager. Maybe he can give them some new energy. With a third of the season behind them if Samuel can manage to get the Orioles not to lose 100 games this season then he certainly deserves a chance to lead them in 2011.
Tonight, the O's host the Boston Red Sox at Camden Yards and I will be watching.
UPDATE: Well, let's just say that Samuel's managerial debut is one he would rather forget. The Red Sox clobbered the O's 11-0. Clay Buchholz tossed a complete game five-hit shutout. The O's have now lost nine in a row.
Frankly, I'm surprised he held on for as long as he did.
The Orioles' 15-39 record is the worst in MLB. They are 21 games behind the Tampa Bay Rays in the AL East. They got off to a 2-16 start but then went through a three week stretch where they played above .500 ball. However, since May 15th, they have gone 3-15 and are in the midst of an eight game losing streak.
Injuries to key players such as Brian Roberts haven't helped. But players like Nick Markakis and Adam Jones are underachieving and their pitching staff is awful. It isn't all Trembley's fault but the O's have gone as far as they were going to go under him. Trembley took over as Orioles manager in June 2007 after Sam Perlozzo was fired.
Meanwhile, third base coach Juan Samuel has been named interim manager. Samuel played in the big leagues for 16 seasons mostly with the Philadelphia Phillies. He also played with the New York Mets, Los Angeles Dodgers, Kansas City Royals (twice), Cincinnati Reds, Detroit Tigers and the Toronto Blue Jays.
Samuel was a second baseman who could hit. He was runner up to Dwight Gooden for NL Rookie of the Year in 1984. Early in his career, Samuel could run. In his rookie season he would steal 72 bases. His best season came in 1987 when he hit .272 with 28 home runs and 100 RBI. Like many Dominican players, he did not walk much. He also struck out a lot and led the NL in strikeouts for four consecutive seasons.
When Samuel's hitting declined he became a dependable bench player who could play a variety of positions. With more time on the bench, Samuel developed an interest in coaching. He was a part of the Tigers coaching staff from 1999 to 2005. His only managerial experience came in 2006 when he managed the Binghamton Mets of the Double AA Eastern League. He would join the Orioles organization the following season.
I'd like to see Samuel given a chance to become the O's permanent manager. Maybe he can give them some new energy. With a third of the season behind them if Samuel can manage to get the Orioles not to lose 100 games this season then he certainly deserves a chance to lead them in 2011.
Tonight, the O's host the Boston Red Sox at Camden Yards and I will be watching.
UPDATE: Well, let's just say that Samuel's managerial debut is one he would rather forget. The Red Sox clobbered the O's 11-0. Clay Buchholz tossed a complete game five-hit shutout. The O's have now lost nine in a row.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Paul McCartney Disses Bush at White House
Last night, President Obama presented Paul McCartney with the Gershwin Prize for Popular Song.
The prize was established in 2007 and its previous two recipients were Paul Simon and Stevie Wonder.
After thanking the Gershwin family and the Library of Congress he then praised President Obama by taking a swipe at President Bush. "In fact, after the last eight years, it's great to have a President who knows what a library is," said the former Beatle.
Why Paul why?
Now I love his music. I've seen him in concert twice now. Most recently at Fenway Park last August. But was that really necessary? Is he applying for a job in the Obama Administration? Couldn't have he - dare I say it - just Let It Be?
Even though Bush has been out of office for nearly a year and a half it is still de rigueur for celebrities to heap scorn upon him. I guess I shouldn't be surprised but I expect a more from a Beatle. You would think a little Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da might be in order.
Well, perhaps the late George Harrison can help us out. "Taxman" ranks at number two on the 50 Greatest Conservative Rock Songs compiled by John J. Miller of National Review. Who is number one? I just told you.
The prize was established in 2007 and its previous two recipients were Paul Simon and Stevie Wonder.
After thanking the Gershwin family and the Library of Congress he then praised President Obama by taking a swipe at President Bush. "In fact, after the last eight years, it's great to have a President who knows what a library is," said the former Beatle.
Why Paul why?
Now I love his music. I've seen him in concert twice now. Most recently at Fenway Park last August. But was that really necessary? Is he applying for a job in the Obama Administration? Couldn't have he - dare I say it - just Let It Be?
Even though Bush has been out of office for nearly a year and a half it is still de rigueur for celebrities to heap scorn upon him. I guess I shouldn't be surprised but I expect a more from a Beatle. You would think a little Ob-La-Di, Ob-La-Da might be in order.
Well, perhaps the late George Harrison can help us out. "Taxman" ranks at number two on the 50 Greatest Conservative Rock Songs compiled by John J. Miller of National Review. Who is number one? I just told you.
Rue McClanahan, 1934-2010. R.I.P.
Actress Rue McClanahan died this morning of a massive stroke. She was 76.
McClanahan had suffered a minor stroke earlier this year after complications from open heart surgery.
She is best remembered for playing the flirtatious Southerner Blanche Devereaux on The Golden Girls alongside Bea Arthur, Estelle Getty and Betty White.
In the space of less than two years three fourths of that ensemble have passed on leaving White as the sole survivor. Ironically, White was the oldest member of the cast and has experienced a resurgence in her career.
Before joining the cast of The Golden Girls, McClanahan co-starred with Arthur on Maude and would also appear in Mama's Family starring Vicki Lawrence. Prior to her work on television, McClanahan was mostly known as a stage actress.
But here is McClanahan at her finest with a little help from her friends.
McClanahan had suffered a minor stroke earlier this year after complications from open heart surgery.
She is best remembered for playing the flirtatious Southerner Blanche Devereaux on The Golden Girls alongside Bea Arthur, Estelle Getty and Betty White.
In the space of less than two years three fourths of that ensemble have passed on leaving White as the sole survivor. Ironically, White was the oldest member of the cast and has experienced a resurgence in her career.
Before joining the cast of The Golden Girls, McClanahan co-starred with Arthur on Maude and would also appear in Mama's Family starring Vicki Lawrence. Prior to her work on television, McClanahan was mostly known as a stage actress.
But here is McClanahan at her finest with a little help from her friends.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
About That Arizona Diamondbacks Boycott
Here's what I wrote a month ago concerning a possible boycott of the Arizona Diamondbacks in protest of Arizona's immigration law:
Should the D'backs, who finished in last place in the NL West in 2009, end up playing poorly this summer fans will stay away from Chase Field, immigration law or no immigration law.
Well, the Diamondbacks have lost 10 straight games including a 1-0 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers in 14 innings.
Should the D'backs, who finished in last place in the NL West in 2009, end up playing poorly this summer fans will stay away from Chase Field, immigration law or no immigration law.
Well, the Diamondbacks have lost 10 straight games including a 1-0 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers in 14 innings.
Ken Griffey, Jr. Retires
Ken Griffey, Jr. abruptly ended his 22-year MLB career by announcing his retirement effective immediately.
"The Kid" struggled with the Seattle Mariners in 2010 hitting a paltry .184 with no home runs and 7 RBI.
Usually a player will retire after the end of a season or announce he'll play one last season before hanging it up. It is rare for a player to retire during the season. Philadelphia Phillies legend Mike Schmidt comes to mind. Only Griffey shed no tears.
And why should he?
With 630 home runs, 1836 RBI and a lifetime .284 batting average, Griffey, Jr. will be a first ballot Hall of Famer.
Sure had he stayed healthy he could have been the all-time home runs leader instead of Barry Bonds. Sure a World Series ring would have been nice. But just because you don't achieve everything doen't mean doesn't mean you haven't achieved something.
"The Kid" struggled with the Seattle Mariners in 2010 hitting a paltry .184 with no home runs and 7 RBI.
Usually a player will retire after the end of a season or announce he'll play one last season before hanging it up. It is rare for a player to retire during the season. Philadelphia Phillies legend Mike Schmidt comes to mind. Only Griffey shed no tears.
And why should he?
With 630 home runs, 1836 RBI and a lifetime .284 batting average, Griffey, Jr. will be a first ballot Hall of Famer.
Sure had he stayed healthy he could have been the all-time home runs leader instead of Barry Bonds. Sure a World Series ring would have been nice. But just because you don't achieve everything doen't mean doesn't mean you haven't achieved something.
Umpire Spoils Galarraga's Bid for Perfect Game
Detroit Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga was one out away from throwing the third perfect game in the space of a month and the second in the past five days.
All that stood between Galarraga and perfection was Cleveland Indians shortstop Jason Donald. The rookie hit a weak groundball to Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera who tossed it to Galarraga who covered the bag at first for the final out. Only first base umpire Jim Joyce called Donald safe.
Replays show that Donald was nowhere near the bag when the ball hit Galarraga's glove. Galarraga settled for one-hit shutout and a 3-0 victory over the Tribe.
Tigers manager Jim Leyland angrily confronted Joyce as did several of Galarraga's teammates.
When Joyce saw the replay he went on radio and admitted his error. He would later contact Galarraga and apologize for costing him a perfect game. I guess Joyce didn't want another Milt Pappas-Bruce Froemming feud. Neither did Galarraga who said of Joyce, "Nobody's perfect."
All that stood between Galarraga and perfection was Cleveland Indians shortstop Jason Donald. The rookie hit a weak groundball to Tigers first baseman Miguel Cabrera who tossed it to Galarraga who covered the bag at first for the final out. Only first base umpire Jim Joyce called Donald safe.
Replays show that Donald was nowhere near the bag when the ball hit Galarraga's glove. Galarraga settled for one-hit shutout and a 3-0 victory over the Tribe.
Tigers manager Jim Leyland angrily confronted Joyce as did several of Galarraga's teammates.
When Joyce saw the replay he went on radio and admitted his error. He would later contact Galarraga and apologize for costing him a perfect game. I guess Joyce didn't want another Milt Pappas-Bruce Froemming feud. Neither did Galarraga who said of Joyce, "Nobody's perfect."
Rich Lowry's Unfair Smackdown of Linda McMahon
So I guess it's safe to say that Rich Lowry of National Review isn't a fan of professional wrestling.
But I think his article on former World Wrestling Entertainment CEO and now Connecticut Republican Senatorial candidate Linda McMahon is unfair.
All Lowry does is slam the WWE. He doesn't make any comment on McMahon's positions on public policy issues. Apparently, the mere association with professional wrestling is sufficient enough to disqualify her from seeking public office:
There was a time when association with something so vulgar would have foreclosed the possibility of public office. But we’ve come a long way since Harry Truman was looked down upon for being a haberdasher. Judgment and discretion aren’t what they used to be in business, entertainment, or politics, fields where profits, ratings, and success tend to trump all other values.
It is safe to say that Linda McMahon is the only person to have run for the U.S. Senate who has ever been on the receiving end of a tombstone piledriver. So I understand that the WWE isn't to the liking of everyone. But if Lowry wants to make this about the WWE then at the very least he should have the courtesy to acknowledge all the support they have given our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Every Christmas since 2003, the WWE has done a show for the troops in either Afghanistan or Iraq called Tribute to the Troops. And if Lowry doesn't think these visits don't matter then he really doesn't know much about the men and women serving on our behalf. When you consider how celebrities score points by showing how anti-war they are the WWE has become the 21st century version of the USO.
I don't know what kind of Senator Linda McMahon would make. But if conservatives have objections they should be directed towards specific policy positions rather than just preening about pro wrestling.
But I think his article on former World Wrestling Entertainment CEO and now Connecticut Republican Senatorial candidate Linda McMahon is unfair.
All Lowry does is slam the WWE. He doesn't make any comment on McMahon's positions on public policy issues. Apparently, the mere association with professional wrestling is sufficient enough to disqualify her from seeking public office:
There was a time when association with something so vulgar would have foreclosed the possibility of public office. But we’ve come a long way since Harry Truman was looked down upon for being a haberdasher. Judgment and discretion aren’t what they used to be in business, entertainment, or politics, fields where profits, ratings, and success tend to trump all other values.
It is safe to say that Linda McMahon is the only person to have run for the U.S. Senate who has ever been on the receiving end of a tombstone piledriver. So I understand that the WWE isn't to the liking of everyone. But if Lowry wants to make this about the WWE then at the very least he should have the courtesy to acknowledge all the support they have given our troops in Afghanistan and Iraq.
Every Christmas since 2003, the WWE has done a show for the troops in either Afghanistan or Iraq called Tribute to the Troops. And if Lowry doesn't think these visits don't matter then he really doesn't know much about the men and women serving on our behalf. When you consider how celebrities score points by showing how anti-war they are the WWE has become the 21st century version of the USO.
I don't know what kind of Senator Linda McMahon would make. But if conservatives have objections they should be directed towards specific policy positions rather than just preening about pro wrestling.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Obama Will Meet With Brewer on Thursday
President Obama will meet with Arizona Governor Jan Brewer this Thursday after all.
Last week, the White House indicated Obama would not have time to meet with Brewer stating that his precious time "doesn't allow for a meeting."
Score one for Governor Brewer.
Now I'm not expecting anything substantive to arise out of this meeting. But the fact she got what she wanted is victory enough.
Last week, the White House indicated Obama would not have time to meet with Brewer stating that his precious time "doesn't allow for a meeting."
Score one for Governor Brewer.
Now I'm not expecting anything substantive to arise out of this meeting. But the fact she got what she wanted is victory enough.
D'Backs Acquire Dontrelle Willis From Detroit
The Detroit Tigers have traded pitcher Dontrelle Willis to the Arizona Diamondbacks for pitcher Billy Buckner.
Willis came to Detroit with much fanfare prior to the 2008 season along with Miguel Cabrera when they were acquired by the Florida Marlins. While Cabrera has lived up to his billing (he currently leads the AL in RBIs with 48) Willis has not.
During his tenure in Detroit, Willis went 2-8 with a 6.86 ERA. Willis was plagued with wildness and he walked 92 batters while striking out only 68. At one point, he was sent down to Lakeland, the Tigers Single A affiliate (the lowest rung in the minor leagues). It didn't do much good.
Complicating matters is that Willis has been diagnosed with social anxiety disorder and has been put on the disabled list on two occasions as a result of it.
Anxiety disorder or not, Willis' pitching hasn't been that good since he won 22 games in 2005 with the Florida Marlins and finished runner up in the NL Cy Young balloting to Chris Carpenter of the St. Louis Cardinals. In his final season with the Marlins, Willis went 10-15 with a 5.17 ERA and gave up a league leading 118 earned runs.
The bright side is that Willis is 28 and still young enough to turn things around. He might not win 22 games again but if he won 11 games for the D'Backs this season it would be huge.
The D'Backs and Tigers essentially exchanged struggling pitchers. The Tigers now have Billy Buckner on their staff. (No, not that Bill Buckner). In three starts for the D'Backs in 2010, Buckner is 0-3 with an astronomical 11.08 ERA. I imagine he'll be placed in the Tigers bullpen.
The question remains as to whether D-Train will get back on track.
Willis came to Detroit with much fanfare prior to the 2008 season along with Miguel Cabrera when they were acquired by the Florida Marlins. While Cabrera has lived up to his billing (he currently leads the AL in RBIs with 48) Willis has not.
During his tenure in Detroit, Willis went 2-8 with a 6.86 ERA. Willis was plagued with wildness and he walked 92 batters while striking out only 68. At one point, he was sent down to Lakeland, the Tigers Single A affiliate (the lowest rung in the minor leagues). It didn't do much good.
Complicating matters is that Willis has been diagnosed with social anxiety disorder and has been put on the disabled list on two occasions as a result of it.
Anxiety disorder or not, Willis' pitching hasn't been that good since he won 22 games in 2005 with the Florida Marlins and finished runner up in the NL Cy Young balloting to Chris Carpenter of the St. Louis Cardinals. In his final season with the Marlins, Willis went 10-15 with a 5.17 ERA and gave up a league leading 118 earned runs.
The bright side is that Willis is 28 and still young enough to turn things around. He might not win 22 games again but if he won 11 games for the D'Backs this season it would be huge.
The D'Backs and Tigers essentially exchanged struggling pitchers. The Tigers now have Billy Buckner on their staff. (No, not that Bill Buckner). In three starts for the D'Backs in 2010, Buckner is 0-3 with an astronomical 11.08 ERA. I imagine he'll be placed in the Tigers bullpen.
The question remains as to whether D-Train will get back on track.
An Evening with Dave Brubeck & The Boston Pops
Tonight, I went to Symphony Hall to see the Dave Brubeck Quartet play with Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops.
I grew up listening to my Dad's Brubeck records especially the seminal Time Out. So Brubeck is someone I've always wanted to see in concert and he has played here in Boston many times but the opportunity was never quite right.
Well, Brubeck turns 90 in December. So I decided to strike the iron while it is still hot.
Brubeck was only on for about 40-45 minutes but it was great to hear his sound especially on such classics as "Blue Rondo a la Turk" and "Take Five".
Most of the evening was taken up by the Boston Pops which is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. They played selections from Lockhart's predecessors Arthur Fiedler and John Williams as well as a Beatles retrospective. It was the first time I've seen the Pops outside of the Fourth of July concert on the Esplanade. Speaking of which, after Brubeck left the stage, the Pops closed the evening with a stirring rendition of John Philip Souza's "Stars & Stripes Forever."
It is worth noting that while Brubeck has played in Boston on a number of occasions over the past few years tonight marked the first time he has played Symphony Hall in 19 years. I feel privileged to have taken time out for Dave Brubeck.
I grew up listening to my Dad's Brubeck records especially the seminal Time Out. So Brubeck is someone I've always wanted to see in concert and he has played here in Boston many times but the opportunity was never quite right.
Well, Brubeck turns 90 in December. So I decided to strike the iron while it is still hot.
Brubeck was only on for about 40-45 minutes but it was great to hear his sound especially on such classics as "Blue Rondo a la Turk" and "Take Five".
Most of the evening was taken up by the Boston Pops which is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year. They played selections from Lockhart's predecessors Arthur Fiedler and John Williams as well as a Beatles retrospective. It was the first time I've seen the Pops outside of the Fourth of July concert on the Esplanade. Speaking of which, after Brubeck left the stage, the Pops closed the evening with a stirring rendition of John Philip Souza's "Stars & Stripes Forever."
It is worth noting that while Brubeck has played in Boston on a number of occasions over the past few years tonight marked the first time he has played Symphony Hall in 19 years. I feel privileged to have taken time out for Dave Brubeck.
Israel's Kent State?
Some fellow named Moshe Yaroni has likened Israel's act of self-defense aboard the Mavi Marmara to the shootings by the Ohio National Guard at Kent State University in May 1970 which resulted in the deaths of four students. Yaroni writes:
When I first heard confirmed reports of this massacre, I thought of the Kent State shootings in 1970. That horrific tragedy, like this one, was the result of a government using ridiculously disproportionate force against civil disobedience.
First, for Yaroni to suggest that what happened aboard the Mavi Marmara was a massacre is utter nonsense. It implies the IDF boarded the ship with intent to wantonly kill.
The IDF boarded the other five ships in the flotilla without incident. Had those aboard the Mavi Marmara exercised similar prudence we would not be engaging in this discourse.
Instead, those aboard the Mavi Marmara assaulted the IDF with knives, baseball bats and whatever else they could get their hands on. As one of the thugs on board explained before the incident, "There are two possible happy endings. Either we will reach Gaza or we will achieve martyrdom.” I guess they are now enjoying their 72 virgins.
The four students killed at Kent State forty years ago weren't assaulting the Ohio National Guard much less armed. In fact, two of the four students killed had no involvement in the anti-war protest and were simply trying to get from one class to another. There were no innocent bystanders on the Mavi Marmara. They were looking for a fight to the death and got it.
By employing such a specious analogy, Mr. Maroni has sullied the memories of those killed at Kent State University. Shame on him.
When I first heard confirmed reports of this massacre, I thought of the Kent State shootings in 1970. That horrific tragedy, like this one, was the result of a government using ridiculously disproportionate force against civil disobedience.
First, for Yaroni to suggest that what happened aboard the Mavi Marmara was a massacre is utter nonsense. It implies the IDF boarded the ship with intent to wantonly kill.
The IDF boarded the other five ships in the flotilla without incident. Had those aboard the Mavi Marmara exercised similar prudence we would not be engaging in this discourse.
Instead, those aboard the Mavi Marmara assaulted the IDF with knives, baseball bats and whatever else they could get their hands on. As one of the thugs on board explained before the incident, "There are two possible happy endings. Either we will reach Gaza or we will achieve martyrdom.” I guess they are now enjoying their 72 virgins.
The four students killed at Kent State forty years ago weren't assaulting the Ohio National Guard much less armed. In fact, two of the four students killed had no involvement in the anti-war protest and were simply trying to get from one class to another. There were no innocent bystanders on the Mavi Marmara. They were looking for a fight to the death and got it.
By employing such a specious analogy, Mr. Maroni has sullied the memories of those killed at Kent State University. Shame on him.
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