``I must give him his due. He has considerably cretinized me.'' Lautréamont
Pics click to enlarge.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Friday, December 25, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Profiles in Cowardice (NYT)
self awareness deficit
By TIMOTHY EGAN
Given the atmosphere of nasty partisan rhetoric, it's probably no surprise that not a single Senate Republican will support the current health care bill.
By TIMOTHY EGAN
Given the atmosphere of nasty partisan rhetoric, it's probably no surprise that not a single Senate Republican will support the current health care bill.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
Friday, December 18, 2009
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
A Fish Oil Story (NYT)
science is hard
By PAUL GREENBERG
With many issues surrounding the overfishing of menhaden for its omega-3 oils, more powerful fulcrums than consumer choice need to be put in motion.
By PAUL GREENBERG
With many issues surrounding the overfishing of menhaden for its omega-3 oils, more powerful fulcrums than consumer choice need to be put in motion.
Wednesday, December 09, 2009
Tuesday, December 08, 2009
A Fearful Price (NYT)
the word he wants is "fearsome" not "fearful."
and that's just a lexical error.
then there's idiocy.
by Bob Herbert
The idea that fewer than 1 percent of Americans are being called on to fight in Afghanistan and Iraq is obscene, and all decent people should object.
and that's just a lexical error.
then there's idiocy.
by Bob Herbert
The idea that fewer than 1 percent of Americans are being called on to fight in Afghanistan and Iraq is obscene, and all decent people should object.
Tax Tax Revolution (NYT)
it's the opposite of free enterprise because the consumer doesn't pay the cost.
New York State’s thousands of local governments could save money by working with their counterparts to eliminate or shrink duplicative services.
New York State’s thousands of local governments could save money by working with their counterparts to eliminate or shrink duplicative services.
Pakistan and the War (NYT)
sternly worded editorial suggested
Pakistan’s civilian and military leaders must finally be persuaded that this is not just America’s war, but rather it is central to their survival.
Pakistan’s civilian and military leaders must finally be persuaded that this is not just America’s war, but rather it is central to their survival.
The Endangerment Finding (NYT)
separation of powers
The E.P.A.’s clear authority to regulate greenhouse gases can be used as an important tool if Congress fails to pass legislation to reduce global warming emissions.
The E.P.A.’s clear authority to regulate greenhouse gases can be used as an important tool if Congress fails to pass legislation to reduce global warming emissions.
Sunday, December 06, 2009
Senate Health Care Follies (NYT)
foolish posturing is in
The debate on the Senate’s health care bill was a depressing mixture of foolish posturing by members of both parties and blatant obstructionism by Republicans.
The debate on the Senate’s health care bill was a depressing mixture of foolish posturing by members of both parties and blatant obstructionism by Republicans.
Saturday, December 05, 2009
Friday, November 27, 2009
Thursday, November 26, 2009
New Jersey’s Marriage Moment (NYT)
violence and low humor unnecessary
Enacting legislation in favor of marriage equality for same-sex couples requires no gargantuan amount of courage on the part of New Jersey legislators.
Enacting legislation in favor of marriage equality for same-sex couples requires no gargantuan amount of courage on the part of New Jersey legislators.
Iran Punishes Its People (NYT)
editorial humor?
Washington must work to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions with the same zeal used to condemn Tehran's assault on reform-minded opposition.
Washington must work to curb Iran's nuclear ambitions with the same zeal used to condemn Tehran's assault on reform-minded opposition.
Peer Review (WSJ Best of the Web)
not quite right.
science comes from curiosity. peer review is one way to channel curiosity, or to thwart it for that matter.
check out the curiosity in the global warming advocates.
And here is Mann's response:
"Re, your point at the end--you've taken the words out of my mouth. Skepticism is essential for the functioning of science. It yields an erratic path towards eventual truth. But legitimate scientific skepticism is exercised through formal scientific circles, in particular the peer review process. A necessary though not in general sufficient condition for taking a scientific criticism seriously is that it has passed through the legitimate scientific peer review process. those such as McIntyre who operate almost entirely outside of this system are not to be trusted."
In principle, Revkin and Mann are quite right.
science comes from curiosity. peer review is one way to channel curiosity, or to thwart it for that matter.
check out the curiosity in the global warming advocates.
And here is Mann's response:
"Re, your point at the end--you've taken the words out of my mouth. Skepticism is essential for the functioning of science. It yields an erratic path towards eventual truth. But legitimate scientific skepticism is exercised through formal scientific circles, in particular the peer review process. A necessary though not in general sufficient condition for taking a scientific criticism seriously is that it has passed through the legitimate scientific peer review process. those such as McIntyre who operate almost entirely outside of this system are not to be trusted."
In principle, Revkin and Mann are quite right.
Saturday, November 14, 2009
The Passion of the Right (NYT)
party of the future
by Charles M Blow
Republicans are likely to gain in 2010, not because of their anachronous tenets, but because of historical patterns and an electorate exasperated with seeming Democratic ineptitude.
by Charles M Blow
Republicans are likely to gain in 2010, not because of their anachronous tenets, but because of historical patterns and an electorate exasperated with seeming Democratic ineptitude.
Friday, November 13, 2009
Friday, October 30, 2009
The Tenacity Question (NYT)
military code for moron
by David Brooks
Military experts say that President Obama is intellectually sophisticated, but they do not know if he has the determination needed from a war president.
by David Brooks
Military experts say that President Obama is intellectually sophisticated, but they do not know if he has the determination needed from a war president.
The Defining Moment (NYT)
more people needed in the loon camp
by Paul Krugman
The health care legislation on the table isn’t perfect, but it’s as good as anyone could reasonably have expected. It is time for everyone to decide which side they’re on.
by Paul Krugman
The health care legislation on the table isn’t perfect, but it’s as good as anyone could reasonably have expected. It is time for everyone to decide which side they’re on.
Afterglow (NYT)
back when even newspapers were big
NASA has detected a gamma-ray burst that is the oldest and most distant object discovered in our universe — an invitation for all of us to unfetter our imaginations.
NASA has detected a gamma-ray burst that is the oldest and most distant object discovered in our universe — an invitation for all of us to unfetter our imaginations.
The Commander’s Duty Done (NYT)
the sun tzu photo op strategy
President Obama’s visit to Dover Air Force Base to pay tribute to the returning war dead was entirely appropriate as he faces the decision of what comes next in Afghanistan.
President Obama’s visit to Dover Air Force Base to pay tribute to the returning war dead was entirely appropriate as he faces the decision of what comes next in Afghanistan.
Mrs. Clinton in Pakistan (NYT)
distribute a government cartoon book, "Religion and You"
To enlist Pakistan as a reliable ally, Washington and Islamabad leaders need to do a much better job of explaining themselves to the Pakistani people.
To enlist Pakistan as a reliable ally, Washington and Islamabad leaders need to do a much better job of explaining themselves to the Pakistani people.
The House Health Reform Bill (NYT)
editorial brain dead mode always works
The bill unveiled Thursday would greatly expand coverage of the uninsured while reducing budget deficits. It deserves to be approved.
The bill unveiled Thursday would greatly expand coverage of the uninsured while reducing budget deficits. It deserves to be approved.
Friday, October 09, 2009
Toxic Hamburgers (NYT)
irradiation no match for food czar
Congress and the Agriculture Department should act to make ground beef safer, and the White House should nominate a strong undersecretary for food safety.
Congress and the Agriculture Department should act to make ground beef safer, and the White House should nominate a strong undersecretary for food safety.
Wrong Advice (NYT)
truth in headlines
If Roberto Micheletti and his backers expect the next Honduran government to be legitimate, it must restore Manuel Zelaya to the presidency now.
If Roberto Micheletti and his backers expect the next Honduran government to be legitimate, it must restore Manuel Zelaya to the presidency now.
The Peace Prize (NYT)
and the editorial meeting's result is
President Obama’s Nobel Peace Prize shows that many people around the world want him to restore American values and leadership — and believe he can.
President Obama’s Nobel Peace Prize shows that many people around the world want him to restore American values and leadership — and believe he can.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Talking With Myanmar (NYT)
Sternly worded letter follows
In the past, the punishment-only approach to Myanmar hasn’t worked. Talks, if handled skillfully, might lead in time to positive change.
In the past, the punishment-only approach to Myanmar hasn’t worked. Talks, if handled skillfully, might lead in time to positive change.
Where Did ‘We’ Go? (NYT)
collective "our" overlooked
by Thomas L Friedman
There is no more “we” in American politics at a time when “we” can only manage, let alone fix, our huge problems if there is a collective “we” at work.
by Thomas L Friedman
There is no more “we” in American politics at a time when “we” can only manage, let alone fix, our huge problems if there is a collective “we” at work.
On Safire (NYT)
vitriol noticed
by Maureen Dowd
William Safire was anything but a nattering nabob of negativity. He had none of the vile and vitriol of today’s howling pack of conservative pundits.
by Maureen Dowd
William Safire was anything but a nattering nabob of negativity. He had none of the vile and vitriol of today’s howling pack of conservative pundits.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Here We Go Again (NYT)
only the ones on the political right
by Charles M Blow
Most Americans know that racism is an issue in this country. The question is if — and to what degree — that racism animates critics of the president.
by Charles M Blow
Most Americans know that racism is an issue in this country. The question is if — and to what degree — that racism animates critics of the president.
The Scourge Persists (NYT)
actually Frank Rich is their worst columnist
by Bob Herbert
The fact that a black man is in the White House has so unsettled much of white America that the lid is coming off the racism that had been simmering all along.
by Bob Herbert
The fact that a black man is in the White House has so unsettled much of white America that the lid is coming off the racism that had been simmering all along.
Iran’s Captives (NYT)
world opinion and strongly worded letter
If Iran is serious about changing international opinion, it should release the five American citizens it has unjustly imprisoned.
If Iran is serious about changing international opinion, it should release the five American citizens it has unjustly imprisoned.
Tired Protectionism (NYT)
whoa! the NYT gets an economics question right
is it random, albeit with small apparent probability?
Do they not see it's a labor union campaign payoff, which is always favored?
The new tarriff on tires from China may be legal, but it is bad economics and bad foreign policy.
is it random, albeit with small apparent probability?
Do they not see it's a labor union campaign payoff, which is always favored?
The new tarriff on tires from China may be legal, but it is bad economics and bad foreign policy.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
The Rights of Gay Employees (NYT)
also imcompetent
It is a disgrace that in 29 states workers can be fired for being gay. Congress should make passing the Employment Non-Discrimination Act a top priority.
It is a disgrace that in 29 states workers can be fired for being gay. Congress should make passing the Employment Non-Discrimination Act a top priority.
Justice Delayed (NYT)
Constitution favored
The nation has always had the tools it needs to bring to trial those accused of organizing the terrorist attacks on 9/11 — legally and without jeopardizing secrets or shredding the Constitution.
The nation has always had the tools it needs to bring to trial those accused of organizing the terrorist attacks on 9/11 — legally and without jeopardizing secrets or shredding the Constitution.
Boy, Oh, Boy (NYT)
Economics disagrees with Obama.
by
Maureen Dowd
Joe Wilson’s outburst in Congress revealed one thing: Some people just can’t believe a black man is president and will never accept it.
by
Maureen Dowd
Joe Wilson’s outburst in Congress revealed one thing: Some people just can’t believe a black man is president and will never accept it.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
A Living Memorial (NYT)
help yourself to a free newspaper
Devoting a day to volunteer service is an appropriate way to show pride for the country and to honor those who lost their lives on Sept. 11.
Devoting a day to volunteer service is an appropriate way to show pride for the country and to honor those who lost their lives on Sept. 11.
President Obama Steps Forward (NYT)
you lie
The president’s rhetorically powerful speech must be only the start of a sustained campaign to get health care reform legislation passed.
The president’s rhetorically powerful speech must be only the start of a sustained campaign to get health care reform legislation passed.
Saturday, September 05, 2009
The Prince of Dispassion (NYT)
insufficient facts noted
by Charles M Blow
In debates, and particularly in the health care debate, facts are not sufficient. President Obama needs to move Americans with passion, conviction and faith.
by Charles M Blow
In debates, and particularly in the health care debate, facts are not sufficient. President Obama needs to move Americans with passion, conviction and faith.
For New York City Council (NYT)
affordable housing to continue
The editorial board endorses candidates in several of the most competitive districts where winning the Democratic primary usually means capturing the seat.
The editorial board endorses candidates in several of the most competitive districts where winning the Democratic primary usually means capturing the seat.
Respect Your Children (NYT)
speech of lies recommended
It is ridiculous that the American right on talk radio and the Web are trying to stop children from hearing the president’s education speech because, they say, that it is socialist propaganda.
It is ridiculous that the American right on talk radio and the Web are trying to stop children from hearing the president’s education speech because, they say, that it is socialist propaganda.
Where the Jobs Aren’t (NYT)
Or you could ignore NYT advice and zero cap gains and business taxes.
With the job market severely wounded, and with consumer spending expected to be weak for a very long time, it could easily take until 2014 for employment to recover.
With the job market severely wounded, and with consumer spending expected to be weak for a very long time, it could easily take until 2014 for employment to recover.
Sunday, August 23, 2009
The Guns of August (NYT)
pandhandlers around the NYT building
by Frank Rich
The simmering undertone of violence in our politics seems to be getting darker.
by Frank Rich
The simmering undertone of violence in our politics seems to be getting darker.
Connecting Nature’s Dots (NYT)
partial differential equations called for
by Thomas L. Friedman
Policy solutions for climate change, poverty, food security and biodiversity need to be as integrated as nature itself.
by Thomas L. Friedman
Policy solutions for climate change, poverty, food security and biodiversity need to be as integrated as nature itself.
The Uninsured (NYT)
obese burger eaters lamented
There are tens of millions of people without insurance, often for extended periods, and there is good evidence that lack of insurance is harmful to their health.
There are tens of millions of people without insurance, often for extended periods, and there is good evidence that lack of insurance is harmful to their health.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
More Business as Usual (NYT)
NYT options plummet
Bank employee pay guidelines must be accompanied by reforms ensuring that banks can no longer profit from primarily speculative activities or other excessively risky transactions.
Bank employee pay guidelines must be accompanied by reforms ensuring that banks can no longer profit from primarily speculative activities or other excessively risky transactions.
The Climate and National Security (NYT)
sacrifice goat
The way to address the grave threats posed by climate change is with sacrifice now, and an apolitical catalyst may come from recognizing the role that the environment plays in our security.
The way to address the grave threats posed by climate change is with sacrifice now, and an apolitical catalyst may come from recognizing the role that the environment plays in our security.
Monday, August 17, 2009
Intel’s Human Rights (NYT)
usefulness deplored as economic principle
Regulators should not be fooled by Intel’s appeal of the European Commission decision that the company violated antitrust law.
Regulators should not be fooled by Intel’s appeal of the European Commission decision that the company violated antitrust law.
The View From the Bottom (NYT)
do the opposite, is always good advice
Policy makers may need to expand relief efforts to ensure the downturn is not followed by a long spell of very weak economic growth.
Policy makers may need to expand relief efforts to ensure the downturn is not followed by a long spell of very weak economic growth.
Sunday, August 09, 2009
The Massachusetts Model (NYT)
glass half full
Calling Massachusetts’s experiment in near universal health care coverage a fiscal disaster is an egregious misread, and while imperfect, it may provide a road map for national health care reform.
Calling Massachusetts’s experiment in near universal health care coverage a fiscal disaster is an egregious misread, and while imperfect, it may provide a road map for national health care reform.
Saturday, August 08, 2009
Saturday, August 01, 2009
Bad Actors, Bad Concrete (NYT)
organized crime turf war threatened
New York City’s Buildings Department says it has set new standards for testing the durability and safety of concrete, but further trouble may lead to a municipal testing operation.
New York City’s Buildings Department says it has set new standards for testing the durability and safety of concrete, but further trouble may lead to a municipal testing operation.
America’s Not-So-Fast Trains (NYT)
convert bike paths
If President Obama and Congress are going to delay a major transportation system overhaul, it is vital to spend money now on projects like high-speed rail corridors across the nation.
If President Obama and Congress are going to delay a major transportation system overhaul, it is vital to spend money now on projects like high-speed rail corridors across the nation.
Detained and Abused (NYT)
Bush at fault, more leftism needed
President Obama did not create the sprawling immigration detention system in which monitoring violations are rampant, but his administration must soon try to fix it.
President Obama did not create the sprawling immigration detention system in which monitoring violations are rampant, but his administration must soon try to fix it.
Trying to Recover (NYT)
no bad economics overlooked on the left
While the stimulus package is cushioning the worst effects of the downturn, new policies on foreclosures and lending must also be part of the plan for economic recovery.
While the stimulus package is cushioning the worst effects of the downturn, new policies on foreclosures and lending must also be part of the plan for economic recovery.
Friday, July 24, 2009
President Obama, Professor Gates and the Cambridge Police (NYT)
supreme court packed
By BRENT STAPLES
President Obama has never played down the significance of racial discrimination, despite the American obsession that he has transcended race.
By BRENT STAPLES
President Obama has never played down the significance of racial discrimination, despite the American obsession that he has transcended race.
The Right Way to Register Voters (NYT)
the Chicago model
America should follow the lead of nations that have put in place the right systems to bring eligible voters into the electorate.
America should follow the lead of nations that have put in place the right systems to bring eligible voters into the electorate.
Where the Jobs Are (NYT)
economic reasoning applied
With low-wage work expected to be the most plentiful in the years to come, raising the minimum wage and growth opportunities should be a priority of the White House.
With low-wage work expected to be the most plentiful in the years to come, raising the minimum wage and growth opportunities should be a priority of the White House.
Monday, July 20, 2009
Costs and Benefits (NYT)
next reasoning plateau: perverse side effects.
Pending bills do an excellent job of providing health insurance for uninsured Americans, but Congress must also address the rising cost of health care itself.
Pending bills do an excellent job of providing health insurance for uninsured Americans, but Congress must also address the rising cost of health care itself.
Saturday, July 18, 2009
Secretary Clinton Goes to India (NYT)
bread cast upon the waters
The United States and India can do a lot to deepen their relationship, but for that to happen India needs to take a more active roll in trade talks and stabilizing the region.
The United States and India can do a lot to deepen their relationship, but for that to happen India needs to take a more active roll in trade talks and stabilizing the region.
Friday, July 17, 2009
The Census Gets a Leader (NYT)
spin called for
The bipartisan support for Robert M. Groves as director of the Census Bureau must not end with his confirmation; lawmakers also need to get behind effort to build public confidence in the census.
The bipartisan support for Robert M. Groves as director of the Census Bureau must not end with his confirmation; lawmakers also need to get behind effort to build public confidence in the census.
Illegal, and Pointless (NYT)
enemies list
A full investigation of the many laws that were evaded in the name of national security during the Bush administration is the only way to ensure these abuses don’t happen again.
A full investigation of the many laws that were evaded in the name of national security during the Bush administration is the only way to ensure these abuses don’t happen again.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Yahoo Free Hosting Service for $$$
Important notice: GeoCities is closing.
Dear Yahoo! GeoCities customer,
We're writing to let you know that Yahoo! GeoCities, our free web site building service and community, is closing on October 26, 2009.
On October 26, 2009, your GeoCities site will no longer appear on the Web, and you will no longer be able to access your GeoCities account and files.
What You Need to Do
If you'd like to move your web site, or save the images and other files you've posted online, you need to act now by choosing one of the following options:
• Move your site to Yahoo! Web Hosting.
We know your files are important to you, and we want to make moving to Web Hosting as easy and affordable as we can. For a limited time, you can move your files automatically, take advantage of terrific features like a personalized domain name and email, even redirect your GeoCities web address to your new site — all for only $4.99 a month for a full year.
Dear Yahoo! GeoCities customer,
We're writing to let you know that Yahoo! GeoCities, our free web site building service and community, is closing on October 26, 2009.
On October 26, 2009, your GeoCities site will no longer appear on the Web, and you will no longer be able to access your GeoCities account and files.
What You Need to Do
If you'd like to move your web site, or save the images and other files you've posted online, you need to act now by choosing one of the following options:
• Move your site to Yahoo! Web Hosting.
We know your files are important to you, and we want to make moving to Web Hosting as easy and affordable as we can. For a limited time, you can move your files automatically, take advantage of terrific features like a personalized domain name and email, even redirect your GeoCities web address to your new site — all for only $4.99 a month for a full year.
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Promises to Keep (NYT)
elections are the trouble
Having done his damage to a severely damaged campaign finance system, President Obama now has a clear responsibility to fix it.
Having done his damage to a severely damaged campaign finance system, President Obama now has a clear responsibility to fix it.
Fair Pay for Caregivers (NYT)
market justice called for
Further delay in rescinding a measure that denies caregivers fair pay raises the danger that their plight will get mired in the broader debate over health care costs.
Further delay in rescinding a measure that denies caregivers fair pay raises the danger that their plight will get mired in the broader debate over health care costs.
The Governor’s Mr. Fix-It (NYT)
Blind leading the blind.
The lawyers will start dueling about Gov. David Paterson’s legal right to appoint a lieutenant, but first he should be applauded for his wisdom and assertiveness.
The lawyers will start dueling about Gov. David Paterson’s legal right to appoint a lieutenant, but first he should be applauded for his wisdom and assertiveness.
Wednesday, July 01, 2009
An Advocate for Women (NYT)
islam will not come up
We welcome President Obama’s decision to create a new post, White House adviser on violence against women, and his appointment of a seasoned advocate for victims to fill it.
We welcome President Obama’s decision to create a new post, White House adviser on violence against women, and his appointment of a seasoned advocate for victims to fill it.
Climate in the Senate (NYT)
iou based economy
The Senate needs to resist calls to weaken the House’s bill capping greenhouse gases and instead make it even better and approve it.
The Senate needs to resist calls to weaken the House’s bill capping greenhouse gases and instead make it even better and approve it.
Firefighters and Race (NYT)
close analysis
In ruling against New Haven, the Supreme Court dealt a blow to diversity in the American workplace.
In ruling against New Haven, the Supreme Court dealt a blow to diversity in the American workplace.
Friday, June 26, 2009
The House and Global Warming (NYT)
editorial science
The House should pass a bill that puts a price on carbon emissions, the first step toward averting the worst damage from climate change.
The House should pass a bill that puts a price on carbon emissions, the first step toward averting the worst damage from climate change.
Saturday, June 13, 2009
What We Need to Know (NYT)
democrats at fault
Until all the events that precipitated the financial crisis are known, some reforms of the financial regulatory system should be put on hold.
Until all the events that precipitated the financial crisis are known, some reforms of the financial regulatory system should be put on hold.
Jump-Start the New York Senate (NYT)
skill disparaged
The political acrobatics in the New York State Senate this week have done an excellent job of cementing Albany’s reputation as government by circus.
The political acrobatics in the New York State Senate this week have done an excellent job of cementing Albany’s reputation as government by circus.
Of Fish and Flexibility (NYT)
objectivity praised
The new Magnuson-Stevens rules, which give impartial scientists, not self-interested fishermen, a greater say in fishing limits, deserve a chance to work.
The new Magnuson-Stevens rules, which give impartial scientists, not self-interested fishermen, a greater say in fishing limits, deserve a chance to work.
Politics of the Gun (NYT)
emotion expressed
It is shameful that Congress caved in to the gun lobby and abandoned the effort to grant the District of Columbia a voting representative in the House.
It is shameful that Congress caved in to the gun lobby and abandoned the effort to grant the District of Columbia a voting representative in the House.
Friday, June 05, 2009
Gene by Gene (NYT)
science creates NYT reader
An experiment that created a strain of mouse with the human gene critical for communication explores what humanness really is and how little is understood.
An experiment that created a strain of mouse with the human gene critical for communication explores what humanness really is and how little is understood.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Intel and Competition (NYT)
low prices must be stopped
The slow investigation into Intel’s predatory business practices is evidence that Washington must pursue monopolies more vigorously and foster competition.
The slow investigation into Intel’s predatory business practices is evidence that Washington must pursue monopolies more vigorously and foster competition.
The Real Path to Security (NYT)
you can have neither
President Obama was exactly right when he said Americans do not have to choose between security and their democratic values.
President Obama was exactly right when he said Americans do not have to choose between security and their democratic values.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Safer Credit Cards (NYT)
only bears will have guns
The House should reject an amendment to the much needed credit card reform bill that allows loaded firearms to be carried into national parks.
The House should reject an amendment to the much needed credit card reform bill that allows loaded firearms to be carried into national parks.
The Earth Wins One (NYT)
back on road will be phased out
New emissions standards will put America back on the road toward energy independence. But the biggest winner could be the atmosphere.
New emissions standards will put America back on the road toward energy independence. But the biggest winner could be the atmosphere.
Monday, May 18, 2009
So Far So Good (NYT)
union in charge
It looks as if Chrysler will emerge from its restructuring a more sensible company. But still looming is the fate of General Motors.
It looks as if Chrysler will emerge from its restructuring a more sensible company. But still looming is the fate of General Motors.
36 Percent Is High Enough (NYT)
not about income tax rates
Congress should restore consumer protections by setting a reasonable federal ceiling on interest rates and allowing states to adopt stricter limits if they want to.
Congress should restore consumer protections by setting a reasonable federal ceiling on interest rates and allowing states to adopt stricter limits if they want to.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Cheney, Master of Pain (NYT)
bush not moved past
The question of what Nancy Pelosi knew or didn’t, or when she did or didn’t know, is irrelevant to how W. and Dick Cheney broke the law and authorized torture.
The question of what Nancy Pelosi knew or didn’t, or when she did or didn’t know, is irrelevant to how W. and Dick Cheney broke the law and authorized torture.
Obama Can’t Turn the Page on Bush (NYT)
bush attacked
by Frank Rich
Until there is true transparency, revelations of the unresolved eight-year nightmare will keep raining down drip by drip.
by Frank Rich
Until there is true transparency, revelations of the unresolved eight-year nightmare will keep raining down drip by drip.
Chemical Plant Safety (NYT)
don't forget to add congressional oversight
A major explosion last year provided more evidence that the nation needs Congress to pass a tougher chemical plant security law.
A major explosion last year provided more evidence that the nation needs Congress to pass a tougher chemical plant security law.
Friday, May 15, 2009
Building a Better Census Bureau (NYT)
strong overcounts needed
The confirmation of Robert Groves to head the Census Bureau is a good start, but Congress must do more to revitalize the weak agency.
The confirmation of Robert Groves to head the Census Bureau is a good start, but Congress must do more to revitalize the weak agency.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Computer Program to Take On ‘Jeopardy!’ (NYT)
it's ``who''
The new bid is based on three years of work by a team that has grown to 20 experts in fields like natural language processing, machine learning and information retrieval.
...
Mr. Friedman added that they were also thinking about whom the human contestants should be and were considering inviting Ken Jennings, the “Jeopardy!” contestant who won 74 consecutive times and collected $2.52 million in 2004.
The new bid is based on three years of work by a team that has grown to 20 experts in fields like natural language processing, machine learning and information retrieval.
...
Mr. Friedman added that they were also thinking about whom the human contestants should be and were considering inviting Ken Jennings, the “Jeopardy!” contestant who won 74 consecutive times and collected $2.52 million in 2004.
Selling Obesity at School (NYT)
newspaper vending machines recommended
The place to start fighting the childhood obesity epidemic is the schools where junk foods are sold outside the healthy federal meals programs.
The place to start fighting the childhood obesity epidemic is the schools where junk foods are sold outside the healthy federal meals programs.
Try Some Quid Pro Nil (NYT)
government power not seen as problem
Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s ethics agenda should include legislation to bar lawmakers from taking contributions from anyone who benefits from their budget earmarks.
Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s ethics agenda should include legislation to bar lawmakers from taking contributions from anyone who benefits from their budget earmarks.
60 Miles From Islamabad (NYT)
strongly worded letter
Washington can not waste more time enabling Pakistan’s denial of the mortal threat that the Taliban poses to the country’s fragile democracy.
Washington can not waste more time enabling Pakistan’s denial of the mortal threat that the Taliban poses to the country’s fragile democracy.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Elections Have Consequences (WSJ)
literary turn of phrase meets cleft kitchen sink sentence
It's hard to reconcile the man who nearly boarded the Obama express with the tough-minded Republican senator who sat across from The Wall Street Journal's editorial board at our offices earlier this week.
It's hard to reconcile the man who nearly boarded the Obama express with the tough-minded Republican senator who sat across from The Wall Street Journal's editorial board at our offices earlier this week.
Friday, April 24, 2009
Reclaiming America’s Soul (NYT)
krugman news fantasy channel
by PAUL KRUGMAN
The only way for the nation to regain its moral compass is to investigate how the government’s interrogation abuses happened, and, if necessary, to prosecute those responsible.
by PAUL KRUGMAN
The only way for the nation to regain its moral compass is to investigate how the government’s interrogation abuses happened, and, if necessary, to prosecute those responsible.
Barbershop (NYT)
rural life in the Times office building
By VERLYN KLINKENBORG
Sitting down in a shop on 43rd Street is as much about grooming as the spontaneous moment of confidentiality with the man in the mirror.
By VERLYN KLINKENBORG
Sitting down in a shop on 43rd Street is as much about grooming as the spontaneous moment of confidentiality with the man in the mirror.
Morning-After Pills (NYT)
16 year olds left in lurch
The Food and Drug Administration has wisely agreed to let 17-year-olds have access to emergency contraceptive pills without a doctor’s prescription.
The Food and Drug Administration has wisely agreed to let 17-year-olds have access to emergency contraceptive pills without a doctor’s prescription.
Horrors! A Handshake! (NYT)
a few games of 3-card monte on the street would be good too.
President Obama has pledged to mend relations with Latin America; the handshake with President Hugo Chávez of Venezuela was a good start.
President Obama has pledged to mend relations with Latin America; the handshake with President Hugo Chávez of Venezuela was a good start.
Holding Up the Housing Recovery (NYT)
the new cause and effect: anything goes with anything.
Republican senators need to understand that a vote against bankruptcy reform is a vote against economic recovery.
Republican senators need to understand that a vote against bankruptcy reform is a vote against economic recovery.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Building in a Vacuum (NYT)
copy editor at work
By COLIN BRODERICK
Having witnessed the economy floundering from Belfast to the Bronx, the guillotine has yet to drop in New York.
By COLIN BRODERICK
Having witnessed the economy floundering from Belfast to the Bronx, the guillotine has yet to drop in New York.
Thursday, April 09, 2009
Israel Cries Wolf (NYT)
sand-into-glass solution rejected out of hand
Barack Obama should view Benjamin Netanyahu’s fear-mongering over Iran’s nuclear ambitions with skepticism, rein him in and pursue Washington’s opening toward Tehran.
Barack Obama should view Benjamin Netanyahu’s fear-mongering over Iran’s nuclear ambitions with skepticism, rein him in and pursue Washington’s opening toward Tehran.
Medically Assisted Torture (NYT)
grammatical ambiguity nearly suggests investigating terrorists
A full-scale investigation should be conducted into the abusive practices against terrorism suspects and the medical personnel that facilitated the torture.
A full-scale investigation should be conducted into the abusive practices against terrorism suspects and the medical personnel that facilitated the torture.
Hold the Line on School Reform (NYT)
more recesses less homework
Education Secretary Arne Duncan needs to tighten the preliminary eligibility guidelines for schools to receive federal stimulus money.
Education Secretary Arne Duncan needs to tighten the preliminary eligibility guidelines for schools to receive federal stimulus money.
Columbine Plus 10 (NYT)
government fears citizens
The massacre in Binghamton, N.Y., is yet another reminder of America’s terrible gun problem and a summons to lawmakers to insist on common-sense gun laws.
The massacre in Binghamton, N.Y., is yet another reminder of America’s terrible gun problem and a summons to lawmakers to insist on common-sense gun laws.
Listen (NYT)
indifference anticipated
By VERLYN KLINKENBORG
Perhaps there is no recovering those emotions one feels when hearing the Beatles for the first time, but hopefully the release of the revitalized Beatles catalogue will come close.
By VERLYN KLINKENBORG
Perhaps there is no recovering those emotions one feels when hearing the Beatles for the first time, but hopefully the release of the revitalized Beatles catalogue will come close.
Monday, April 06, 2009
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Stopping ‘Stop-Loss’ (NYT)
it's in the contract, and it's a volunteer army.
but a weaker military is always good.
The stop-loss program, which forces soldiers to remain in the military after their enlistments end, should only be used in unique circumstances.
but a weaker military is always good.
The stop-loss program, which forces soldiers to remain in the military after their enlistments end, should only be used in unique circumstances.
Mr. Obama and the Rule of Law (NYT)
NYT salaries set
Some of the Obama administration’s statements on issues like state secrets and detainees sound a bit too close for comfort to the Bush team’s benighted ideas.
Some of the Obama administration’s statements on issues like state secrets and detainees sound a bit too close for comfort to the Bush team’s benighted ideas.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Fresh Food for Urban Deserts (NYT)
vegetable stamps
Michelle Obama should add her powerful voice to local efforts aimed at bringing fresh groceries into poorer neighborhoods.
Michelle Obama should add her powerful voice to local efforts aimed at bringing fresh groceries into poorer neighborhoods.
While Mr. Perry and Mr. Jindal Fiddle (NYT)
refusing and putting deplored
Republican governors who refuse federal aid rather than expand state unemployment insurance programs are putting ideology ahead of the needs of their constituents.
Republican governors who refuse federal aid rather than expand state unemployment insurance programs are putting ideology ahead of the needs of their constituents.
The Fed Does Battle, Again (NYT)
competence overlooked
This crisis is unlikely to turn around until President Obama is more forthright about the depth of the banking system’s problems and follows through on his housing plan.
This crisis is unlikely to turn around until President Obama is more forthright about the depth of the banking system’s problems and follows through on his housing plan.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
The Whale Road Nearby (NYT)
mammal budget threatened
Budget cuts on a program to listen to endangered whales in New York waters mean a loss of valuable research data and the possibility of putting the mammals in harm’s way.
Budget cuts on a program to listen to endangered whales in New York waters mean a loss of valuable research data and the possibility of putting the mammals in harm’s way.
It’s the Regulations, Not the Regulator (NYT)
zeal deplored
The financial crisis is not just the result of a missing regulator, but also deregulatory zeal that eclipsed rules and regulations — and the very will to regulate.
The financial crisis is not just the result of a missing regulator, but also deregulatory zeal that eclipsed rules and regulations — and the very will to regulate.
The Grievance Committee (NYT)
grammar crisis
by Gail Collins
Anger is in. Hope’s so January. And saying your mad doesn’t count, President Obama. Nor does constructively channeled anger. It’s like diet pizza.
by Gail Collins
Anger is in. Hope’s so January. And saying your mad doesn’t count, President Obama. Nor does constructively channeled anger. It’s like diet pizza.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Dangers of the D-Word (NYT)
d is for democrat
By EDUARDO PORTER
We might want to number the Great Depressions, as we do our Great Wars, or we might need some new scary words.
By EDUARDO PORTER
We might want to number the Great Depressions, as we do our Great Wars, or we might need some new scary words.
The Treasures of Joe Bruno (NYT)
the loose canon legal theory
New York’s attorney general should immediately start investigating whether public funds were spent illegally while the Republicans controlled Albany.
New York’s attorney general should immediately start investigating whether public funds were spent illegally while the Republicans controlled Albany.
‘We’ll Take It’ (NYT)
district 99% democrat figures strongly in NYT constitional reasoning
Congress should pass a bill that would give the District of Columbia a voting member in the House of Representatives.
Congress should pass a bill that would give the District of Columbia a voting member in the House of Representatives.
Dangerous Food (NYT)
seat belts on toilets
Congress and the Obama administration must finally make food safety a serious priority.
Congress and the Obama administration must finally make food safety a serious priority.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
People of Color
The reason ``people of color'' is inoffensive is that it's in a special register reserved for showing the speaker's intention not to offend.
``Why this odd phrasing? Ah, to be sure. It's the inoffending register.''
The oddness is needed as a mark.
``Why this odd phrasing? Ah, to be sure. It's the inoffending register.''
The oddness is needed as a mark.
More Annals of Global Greed Inc. (NYT)
paid off wrong leftists
Halliburton’s $579 million settlement in a Nigerian bribery case is hardly encouraging and should compel tighter scrutiny of the company’s Iraq failures.
Halliburton’s $579 million settlement in a Nigerian bribery case is hardly encouraging and should compel tighter scrutiny of the company’s Iraq failures.
Helping Workers in Hard Times (NYT)
multiplier effect
Forcing companies that are receiving money from the stimulus package to file employment verification for all workers lacks common sense.
Forcing companies that are receiving money from the stimulus package to file employment verification for all workers lacks common sense.
A Record of Sacrifice (NYT)
make them into tools of the left
If President Obama’s commitment to greater transparency in government has any meaning, he will quickly reverse a policy that dishonors dead solders.
If President Obama’s commitment to greater transparency in government has any meaning, he will quickly reverse a policy that dishonors dead solders.
Sow Those Seeds! (NYT)
sow is a porkulus allusion
By VERLYN KLINKENBORG
Perhaps in this moment of crisis it is time for another national home gardening movement.
By VERLYN KLINKENBORG
Perhaps in this moment of crisis it is time for another national home gardening movement.
Monday, January 26, 2009
Counting the Walking Wounded (NYT)
it's vice versa day
By LAWRENCE M. WEIN
The military estimates of the mental damage from war are too low because the method used to determine the count is flawed.
By LAWRENCE M. WEIN
The military estimates of the mental damage from war are too low because the method used to determine the count is flawed.
Troubled Minds and Purple Hearts (NYT)
the jimmy carter medal of freedom
By TYLER E. BOUDREAU
A new decoration, a new medal, should be awarded to those whose minds and souls have been sundered by war.
By TYLER E. BOUDREAU
A new decoration, a new medal, should be awarded to those whose minds and souls have been sundered by war.
The Moment for National Service (NYT)
the pet bunny school of economics
A prompt approval of the Serve America Act would create tens of thousands of meaningful new positions for people ready to work hard for the public good.
A prompt approval of the Serve America Act would create tens of thousands of meaningful new positions for people ready to work hard for the public good.
From Here to Retirement (NYT)
Zero out the corporate tax rate and the capital gains tax rate.
Money is not wealth to a nation. Capital is.
Saving does not save if everybody does it.
The wipeout in 401(k)’s has made it clear that there needs to be a better way to ensure that a lifetime of savings can’t be undone by forces beyond one’s control.
Money is not wealth to a nation. Capital is.
Saving does not save if everybody does it.
The wipeout in 401(k)’s has made it clear that there needs to be a better way to ensure that a lifetime of savings can’t be undone by forces beyond one’s control.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
President Obama (NYT)
hundred cliches
In his Inaugural Address, President Obama gave Americans the clarity and the respect for which they have hungered.
In his Inaugural Address, President Obama gave Americans the clarity and the respect for which they have hungered.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Closing Guantánamo (NYT)
black man's legal burden
Though it will be hard enough to shut down Guantánamo Bay as Barack Obama has vowed to do, the legal burdens that President Bush is dumping on his successor will be much greater.
Though it will be hard enough to shut down Guantánamo Bay as Barack Obama has vowed to do, the legal burdens that President Bush is dumping on his successor will be much greater.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Return of the Natives (NYT)
firewater consumed
By TIMOTHY EGAN
Native Americans have never been more excited about a new president.
By TIMOTHY EGAN
Native Americans have never been more excited about a new president.
How F.D.R. Made the Presidency Matter (NYT)
constitution improved
By JEAN EDWARD SMITH
Franklin D. Roosevelt's first 100 days in office were the most productive in American legislative history.
By JEAN EDWARD SMITH
Franklin D. Roosevelt's first 100 days in office were the most productive in American legislative history.
Zimbabwe Is Dying (NYT)
pro-capitalist narrative opportunity mysteriously overlooked
by Bob Herbert
The world is ignoring the brutality of Robert Mugabe’s reign of Zimbabwe, which was once a prosperous and medically advanced nation.
by Bob Herbert
The world is ignoring the brutality of Robert Mugabe’s reign of Zimbabwe, which was once a prosperous and medically advanced nation.
Imagining the Inaugural (NYT)
play with the dog
by Gail Collins
Some advice about where to celebrate Barack Obama’s inauguration as 44th president of the United States.
by Gail Collins
Some advice about where to celebrate Barack Obama’s inauguration as 44th president of the United States.
Not So Reasonable and Customary (NYT)
free medical care
More big insurers should adopt a fairer and more transparent system for determining out-of-network reimbursements.
More big insurers should adopt a fairer and more transparent system for determining out-of-network reimbursements.
But Who Will Drive Them? (NYT)
predator drones patrolling highways
If the Obama administration is serious about boosting the fuel efficiency of the American fleet, it must do more than just tighten fuel-economy standards to steer drivers to the new cars.
If the Obama administration is serious about boosting the fuel efficiency of the American fleet, it must do more than just tighten fuel-economy standards to steer drivers to the new cars.
‘They Want Us to Be Stupid Things’ (NYT)
terror defined
Anyone who questions that the real front in the war against Al Qaeda is not in Afghanistan should be made aware of how women and young girls in school are being terrorized there.
Anyone who questions that the real front in the war against Al Qaeda is not in Afghanistan should be made aware of how women and young girls in school are being terrorized there.
Sunday, January 04, 2009
Fighting Off Depression (NYT)
words not minced
by Paul Krugman
Let’s not mince words: This looks an awful lot like the beginning of a second Great Depression. Will we “act swiftly and boldly” enough to stop that from happening?
by Paul Krugman
Let’s not mince words: This looks an awful lot like the beginning of a second Great Depression. Will we “act swiftly and boldly” enough to stop that from happening?
The Principal’s Office First (NYT)
three needs night (3)
Connecticut and other states need to issue public reports of school-based arrests and take steps to ensure that they are not racially motivated.
Connecticut and other states need to issue public reports of school-based arrests and take steps to ensure that they are not racially motivated.
A Pitch for Mass Transit (NYT)
three needs night (2)
Barack Obama needs to give mass transit the priority it deserves and the full financial and technological help it needs.
Barack Obama needs to give mass transit the priority it deserves and the full financial and technological help it needs.
No Mugs, but What About Those Fees? (NYT)
three needs night (1)
Congress needs to pass legislation that would force drug companies to report payments to doctors through a national registry so that all conflicts are known.
Congress needs to pass legislation that would force drug companies to report payments to doctors through a national registry so that all conflicts are known.
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2009
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December
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- Snowdens of Yesteryear
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- View Two
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- Profiles in Cowardice (NYT)
- Copenhagen Ends Global Warming
- Speak Softly
- A Fish Oil Story (NYT)
- Meteor Guarded
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- A Fearful Price (NYT)
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- Pakistan and the War (NYT)
- The Endangerment Finding (NYT)
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September
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- Talking With Myanmar (NYT)
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- On Safire (NYT)
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- The Scourge Persists (NYT)
- Iran’s Captives (NYT)
- Tired Protectionism (NYT)
- The Rights of Gay Employees (NYT)
- Justice Delayed (NYT)
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- A Living Memorial (NYT)
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August
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- The Guns of August (NYT)
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- Intel’s Human Rights (NYT)
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- Resistors on Trial in Iran (Drudge)
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July
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- President Obama, Professor Gates and the Cambridge...
- The Right Way to Register Voters (NYT)
- Where the Jobs Are (NYT)
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- Secretary Clinton Goes to India (NYT)
- The Census Gets a Leader (NYT)
- Illegal, and Pointless (NYT)
- Yahoo Free Hosting Service for $$$
- Promises to Keep (NYT)
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- Palin
- An Advocate for Women (NYT)
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April
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- Computer Program to Take On ‘Jeopardy!’ (NYT)
- Selling Obesity at School (NYT)
- Try Some Quid Pro Nil (NYT)
- 60 Miles From Islamabad (NYT)
- Elections Have Consequences (WSJ)
- Reclaiming America’s Soul (NYT)
- Barbershop (NYT)
- Morning-After Pills (NYT)
- Horrors! A Handshake! (NYT)
- Holding Up the Housing Recovery (NYT)
- Building in a Vacuum (NYT)
- Israel Cries Wolf (NYT)
- Medically Assisted Torture (NYT)
- Hold the Line on School Reform (NYT)
- Columbine Plus 10 (NYT)
- Listen (NYT)
- Bubbles Sparked
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January
(17)
- Counting the Walking Wounded (NYT)
- Troubled Minds and Purple Hearts (NYT)
- The Moment for National Service (NYT)
- From Here to Retirement (NYT)
- President Obama (NYT)
- Closing Guantánamo (NYT)
- Return of the Natives (NYT)
- How F.D.R. Made the Presidency Matter (NYT)
- Zimbabwe Is Dying (NYT)
- Imagining the Inaugural (NYT)
- Not So Reasonable and Customary (NYT)
- But Who Will Drive Them? (NYT)
- ‘They Want Us to Be Stupid Things’ (NYT)
- Fighting Off Depression (NYT)
- The Principal’s Office First (NYT)
- A Pitch for Mass Transit (NYT)
- No Mugs, but What About Those Fees? (NYT)
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