First U.S. Satellite's Souvenirs Still Circles the Earth

We were a little late, but Explorer I actually did real Science and is STILL in orbit today.

Sputnik just beeped and fell back to earth a few months later (although I don't know the exact length of time)

SPACE.com -- 50 Years Later: First U.S. Satellite's Souvenirs Still Circle the Earth [This Post Continues after the jump...]

John McCain is Letting me Down

John's McCain continued assertion that Mitt Romney once said he support secret "time tables" for withdrawal of troops from Iraq is making me sick. He's better than this and he needs to find a way out of it.

He's also not answering questions about the Economy.

He's losing it.. "Romey ran business and Sometimes people loose their Jobs" (paraphrased)

If Huckabee was electable, I might actually support him! He just mentioned the 10th Amendment and I bet people don't even know what that is.

CNN is doing a horrible job. Several of their questions were purposely set up to make the candidates defend or tear down Bush or Reagan, but never Clinton or Carter. When you ask a question like that, all you're going to get is a sound and dance. It's not good debate moderating.

<<<---Updates--->>>

This was posted in the comments, but I thought it was good enough to bring up here. The Problem with McCain. Tai-Pan does a lot better job of going into details.

McCain also has not address why he Voted against the Bush Tax Cuts but want to make them permanent. Talk about a flip-flop. He apparently said they "helped the rich" too much then, but now that's either a good thing, or it was never true.

Despite all this, I still can't bring myself to support Romney. I think we need someone like John McCain if we are going to win the election and get anything done afterwards. [This Post Continues after the jump...]

The Florida Tax Amendment

I will use my first post on LURT to pose a question about local taxes. Referring to amendment 1 in Florida, I usually always vote in a manner to lower my tax burden (i.e. I voted yes). I believe that the government should instead, a) cut needless spending and most importantly b) cut waste.

The main argument for voting "no" on the amendment was that basic services would be cut due to decreased tax revenues. However, as far as I can see, the population is growing thus increasing the tax base. Housing prices and assessments have also increased so people buying new homes are paying higher property tax rates - another thing that should increase tax revenues. So where the hell is all of this extra tax revenue going and have our basic services gotten so expensive that they now cost so much more than the amount of the extra tax revenue? [This Post Continues after the jump...]

Illegal Immigrants will get Stimulus Cash

This is just dandy...
This whole economic stimulus package gets worse and worse

Lou Dobbs alert: Illegal immigrants may get rebates - The Crypt's Blog - Politico.com [This Post Continues after the jump...]

Florida Property Tax Amendment Passes

After detailed analysis and scientific exit polling (of my wife and myself) I'm predicting the amendment will pass. Which is odd because I voted against it and my wife didn't vote one way or the other.

I'm surprised this passes (or looks like it will). For one thing, it needed 60% which was supposed to make amendments harder to pass. Second, it doesn't go anywhere near far enough. It would not help people that already own an expensive house (bought within the last few years of this real estate bubble) with their high taxes and it doesn't put seem to help future "first time" buyers very much.

Since more people will be saving more money from their "caps", the tax rate will have to go higher and higher to make the money counties need. Maybe it shouldn't, but this amendment doesn't stop them, so I'm assuming counties will continue to tax and tax. Since more people are covered by the "cap", the gap between what they pay and what first time home buyers will pay will continue to grow and grow.

How is this fair? How is this sustainable?

Plus there is the Federal Constitutional issue of this puts an unfair burden on people moving to Florida (like a struck down car "impact fee").

I vote against it because I wanted to send a strong message for them to TRY AGAIN. Now there will not be as much pressure to do anything.

Property Tax Amendment 1 still getting 60 percent of 'yes' vote -- OrlandoSentinel.com

***UPDATE***

Well, lets see if this works...
Amendment 1's approval deserves smart response from government
(http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/opinion/orl-ed30108jan30,0,4602339.story) [This Post Continues after the jump...]

McCain Wins Florida - and Other News

Well, CNN was first to call it for McCain... at least that I saw.
McCain wins Florida, CNN projects - CNN.com

FoxNews still says it's too close to call But the actually story headline says McCain wins... So FoxNews doesn't have the website act together...
** Update - Now FoxNews Main page is calling McCain the winner.

This is interesting.... Giuliani expected to endorse McCain

** UPDATE **

Exit Poll Info HERE [This Post Continues after the jump...]

Engineers have a 'terrorist mindset'

Well, I'm certainly am inclined to take a conservative and religious position on things...and according to most democrats, my views are "extreme"... but I would hardly call myself a terrorist...

EETimes.com - Holy War! Researchers say EEs have a 'terrorist mindset'

PDF paper here Engineers of Jihad [This Post Continues after the jump...]

A Deal 'In Principle' - Economic Stimulus Plan

Congress is close to approving giving away $100 BILLION. I don't see how any conservative republican could say this deal has any "principles" they share.
It's a 100% free money give away.

Instead of giving it away, the government should DO something with the money. Such as...

• Hire more people to study global warming,
• Hire more people to clean up toxic waste sites (the only useful thing in this list)
• Hire people to build a bridge to no where
• Hire more private mercenaries for Iraq (and bring some troops home)
• Build public housing in 10 foot deep flood zones in New Orleans
• Accelerate the building of NASA's next rocket (not delay it like Obama wants to do)

I don't agree with spending money on most of these ideas, but I list them because even "wasting" money and getting something of dubious value in return is better than just "giving it away"...

FOXNews.com - House, White House Reach Deal 'In Principle' on Economic Stimulus - Politics | Republican Party | Democratic Party | Political Spectrum

PS for my NASA co-workers: NASA's next rocket is not a waste of money in itself, but throwing more money at it to accelerate it's development probably would be.


** UPDATE **
Apparently Carter tried this in 1980... From the The Volokh Conspiracy

*** More Updates ***
House Approves Economic Stimulus Plan

How can Democrats support this, saying how important it is to simulate the economy by giving money to people to spend, without also realizing how harmful it is to the economy when they TAX us and take the money to begin with? It just doesn't add up. Doing this is essentially admitting that we are OVERTAXED and that as a result the economy is in trouble. How can anybody that voted for this vote to raise taxes later (directly or by not extending the current tax cuts).

I still say it would be more stimulating for the government to DO something with the money instead of just giving it away. Giving it away is just a tax refund and PROVES we are over taxed.

***** Supporting Ideas *****
Here's similar thought The government has no money of its own [This Post Continues after the jump...]

Bush's State of the Union Speech

FOXNews.com - Transcript: President Bush's State of the Union Speech - Politics | Republican Party | Democratic Party | Political Spectrum

Transcript: President Bush's State of the Union Speech

Monday , January 28, 2008

PRESIDENT BUSH: Madam Speaker, Vice President Cheney, Members of Congress, distinguished guests, and fellow citizens:

Seven years have passed since I first stood before you at this rostrum. In that time, our country has been tested in ways none of us could have imagined. We have faced hard decisions about peace and war, rising competition in the world economy, and the health and welfare of our citizens. These issues call for vigorous debate, and I think it's fair to say we've answered that call. Yet history will record that amid our differences, we acted with purpose. And together, we showed the world the power and resilience of American self-government.

All of us were sent to Washington to carry out the people's business. That is the purpose of this body. It is the meaning of our oath. And it remains our charge to keep.

The actions of the 110th Congress will affect the security and prosperity of our nation long after this session has ended. In this election year, let us show our fellow Americans that we recognize our responsibilities and are determined to meet them. And let us show them that Republicans and Democrats can compete for votes and cooperate for results at the same time.

From expanding opportunity to protecting our country, we have made good progress. Yet we have unfinished business before us, and the American people expect us to get it done.

In the work ahead, we must be guided by the philosophy that made our nation great. As Americans, we believe in the power of individuals to determine their destiny and shape the course of history. We believe that the most reliable guide for our country is the collective wisdom of ordinary citizens. So in all we do, we must trust in the ability of free people to make wise decisions, and empower them to improve their lives and their futures.

To build a prosperous future, we must trust people with their own money and empower them to grow our economy. As we meet tonight, our economy is undergoing a period of uncertainty. America has added jobs for a record 52 straight months, but jobs are now growing at a slower pace. Wages are up, but so are prices for food and gas. Exports are rising, but the housing market has declined. And at kitchen tables across our country, there is concern about our economic future.

In the long run, Americans can be confident about our economic growth. But in the short run, we can all see that growth is slowing. So last week, my Administration reached agreement with Speaker Pelosi and Republican Leader Boehner on a robust growth package that includes tax relief for individuals and families and incentives for business investment. The temptation will be to load up the bill. That would delay it or derail it, and neither option is acceptable. This is a good agreement that will keep our economy growing and our people working. And this Congress must pass it as soon as possible.

We have other work to do on taxes. Unless the Congress acts, most of the tax relief we have delivered over the past 7 years will be taken away. Some in Washington argue that letting tax relief expire is not a tax increase. Try explaining that to 116 million American taxpayers who would see their taxes rise by an average of $1,800. Others have said they would personally be happy to pay higher taxes. I welcome their enthusiasm, and I am pleased to report that the IRS accepts both checks and money orders.

Most Americans think their taxes are high enough. With all the other pressures on their finances, American families should not have to worry about the Federal Government taking a bigger bite out of their paychecks. There is only one way to eliminate this uncertainty: make the tax relief permanent. And Members of Congress should know: If any bill raising taxes reaches my desk, I will veto it.

Just as we trust Americans with their own money, we need to earn their trust by spending their tax dollars wisely. Next week, I will send you a budget that terminates or substantially reduces 151 wasteful or bloated programs totaling more than $18 billion. And this budget will keep America on track for a surplus in 2012. American families have to balance their budgets, and so should their Government.

The people's trust in their Government is undermined by congressional earmarks — special interest projects that are often snuck in at the last minute, without discussion or debate. Last year, I asked you to voluntarily cut the number and cost of earmarks in half. I also asked you to stop slipping earmarks into committee reports that never even come to a vote. Unfortunately, neither goal was met. So this time, if you send me an appropriations bill that does not cut the number and cost of earmarks in half, I will send it back to you with my veto. And tomorrow, I will issue an Executive Order that directs Federal agencies to ignore any future earmark that is not voted on by the Congress. If these items are truly worth funding, the Congress should debate them in the open and hold a public vote.

Our shared responsibilities extend beyond matters of taxes and spending.

On housing, we must trust Americans with the responsibility of homeownership and empower them to weather turbulent times in the housing market. My Administration brought together the HOPE NOW alliance, which is helping many struggling homeowners avoid foreclosure. The Congress can help even more. Tonight I ask you to pass legislation to reform Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, modernize the Federal Housing Administration, and allow State housing agencies to issue tax-free bonds to help homeowners refinance their mortgages. These are difficult times for many American families, and by taking these steps, we can help more of them keep their homes.

To build a future of quality health care, we must trust patients and doctors to make medical decisions and empower them with better information and better options. We share a common goal: making health care more affordable and accessible for all Americans. The best way to achieve that goal is by expanding consumer choice, not government control. So I have proposed ending the bias in the tax code against those who do not get their health insurance through their employer. This one reform would put private coverage within reach for millions, and I call on the Congress to pass it this year. The Congress must also expand health savings accounts, create Association Health Plans for small businesses, promote health information technology, and confront the epidemic of junk medical lawsuits. With all these steps, we will help ensure that decisions about your medical care are made in the privacy of your doctor's office — not in the halls of Congress.

On education, we must trust students to learn if given the chance and empower parents to demand results from our schools. In neighborhoods across our country, there are boys and girls with dreams — and a decent education is their only hope of achieving them. Six years ago, we came together to pass the No Child Left Behind Act, and today no one can deny its results. Last year, fourth and eighth graders achieved the highest math scores on record. Reading scores are on the rise. And African-American and Hispanic students posted all-time highs. Now we must work together to increase accountability, add flexibility for States and districts, reduce the number of high school dropouts, and provide extra help for struggling schools. Members of Congress: The No Child Left Behind Act is a bipartisan achievement. It is succeeding. And we owe it to America's children, their parents, and their teachers to strengthen this good law.

We must also do more to help children when their schools do not measure up. Thanks to the D.C. Opportunity Scholarships you approved, more than 2,600 of the poorest children in our Nation's capital have found new hope at a faith-based or other non-public school. Sadly, these schools are disappearing at an alarming rate in many of America's inner cities. So I will convene a White House summit aimed at strengthening these lifelines of learning. And to open the doors of these schools to more children, I ask you to support a new $300 million program called Pell Grants for Kids. We have seen how Pell Grants help low-income college students realize their full potential. Together, we have expanded the size and reach of these grants. Now let's apply that same spirit to help liberate poor children trapped in failing public schools.

On trade, we must trust American workers to compete with anyone in the world and empower them by opening up new markets overseas. Today, our economic growth increasingly depends on our ability to sell American goods, crops, and services all over the world. So we are working to break down barriers to trade and investment wherever we can. We are working for a successful Doha round of trade talks, and we must complete a good agreement this year. At the same time, we are pursuing opportunities to open up new markets by passing free trade agreements.

I thank the Congress for approving a good agreement with Peru. Now I ask you to approve agreements with Colombia, Panama, and South Korea. Many products from these nations now enter America duty-free, yet many of our products face steep tariffs in their markets. These agreements will level the playing field. They will give us better access to nearly 100 million customers. And they will support good jobs for the finest workers in the world: those whose products say "Made in the USA."

These agreements also promote America's strategic interests. The first agreement that will come before you is with Colombia, a friend of America that is confronting violence and terror and fighting drug traffickers. If we fail to pass this agreement, we will embolden the purveyors of false populism in our hemisphere. So we must come together, pass this agreement, and show our neighbors in the region that democracy leads to a better life.

Trade brings better jobs, better choices, and better prices. Yet for some Americans, trade can mean losing a job, and the Federal Government has a responsibility to help. I ask the Congress to reauthorize and reform trade adjustment assistance, so we can help these displaced workers learn new skills and find new jobs.

To build a future of energy security, we must trust in the creative genius of American researchers and entrepreneurs and empower them to pioneer a new generation of clean energy technology. Our security, our prosperity, and our environment all require reducing our dependence on oil. Last year, I asked you to pass legislation to reduce oil consumption over the next decade, and you responded. Together we should take the next steps: Let us fund new technologies that can generate coal power while capturing carbon emissions. Let us increase the use of renewable power and emissions-free nuclear power. Let us continue investing in advanced battery technology and renewable fuels to power the cars and trucks of the future. Let us create a new international clean technology fund, which will help developing nations like India and China make greater use of clean energy sources. And let us complete an international agreement that has the potential to slow, stop, and eventually reverse the growth of greenhouse gases. This agreement will be effective only if it includes commitments by every major economy and gives none a free ride. The United States is committed to strengthening our energy security and confronting global climate change. And the best way to meet these goals is for America to continue leading the way toward the development of cleaner and more efficient technology.

To keep America competitive into the future, we must trust in the skill of our scientists and engineers and empower them to pursue the breakthroughs of tomorrow. Last year, the Congress passed legislation supporting the American Competitiveness Initiative, but never followed through with the funding. This funding is essential to keeping our scientific edge. So I ask the Congress to double Federal support for critical basic research in the physical sciences and ensure America remains the most dynamic nation on earth.

On matters of science and life, we must trust in the innovative spirit of medical researchers and empower them to discover new treatments while respecting moral boundaries. In November, we witnessed a landmark achievement when scientists discovered a way to reprogram adult skin cells to act like embryonic stem cells. This breakthrough has the potential to move us beyond the divisive debates of the past by extending the frontiers of medicine without the destruction of human life. So we are expanding funding for this type of ethical medical research. And as we explore promising avenues of research, we must also ensure that all life is treated with the dignity it deserves. So I call on the Congress to pass legislation that bans unethical practices such as the buying, selling, patenting, or cloning of human life.

On matters of justice, we must trust in the wisdom of our Founders and empower judges who understand that the Constitution means what it says. I have submitted judicial nominees who will rule by the letter of the law, not the whim of the gavel. Many of these nominees are being unfairly delayed. They are worthy of confirmation, and the Senate should give each of them a prompt up-or-down vote.

In communities across our land, we must trust in the good heart of the American people and empower them to serve their neighbors in need. Over the past 7 years, more of our fellow citizens have discovered that the pursuit of happiness leads to the path of service. Americans have volunteered in record numbers. Charitable donations are higher than ever. Faith-based groups are bringing hope to pockets of despair, with newfound support from the Federal Government. And to help guarantee equal treatment for faith-based organizations when they compete for Federal funds, I ask you to permanently extend Charitable Choice.

Tonight the armies of compassion continue the march to a new day in the Gulf Coast. America honors the strength and resilience of the people of this region. We reaffirm our pledge to help them build stronger and better than before. And tonight I am pleased to announce that in April we will host this year's North American Summit of Canada, Mexico, and the United States in the great city of New Orleans.

There are two other pressing challenges that I have raised repeatedly before this body, and that this body has failed to address: entitlement spending and immigration.

Every Member in this chamber knows that spending on entitlement programs like Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid is growing faster than we can afford. And we all know the painful choices ahead if America stays on this path: massive tax increases, sudden and drastic cuts in benefits, or crippling deficits. I have laid out proposals to reform these programs. Now I ask Members of Congress to offer your proposals and come up with a bipartisan solution to save these vital programs for our children and grandchildren.

The other pressing challenge is immigration. America needs to secure our borders — and with your help, my Administration is taking steps to do so. We are increasing worksite enforcement, we are deploying fences and advanced technologies to stop illegal crossings, we have effectively ended the policy of "catch and release" at the border, and by the end of this year, we will have doubled the number of border patrol agents. Yet we also need to acknowledge that we will never fully secure our border until we create a lawful way for foreign workers to come here and support our economy. This will take pressure off the border and allow law enforcement to concentrate on those who mean us harm. We must also find a sensible and humane way to deal with people here illegally. Illegal immigration is complicated, but it can be resolved. And it must be resolved in a way that upholds both our laws and our highest ideals.

This is the business of our Nation here at home. Yet building a prosperous future for our citizens also depends on confronting enemies abroad and advancing liberty in troubled regions of the world.

Our foreign policy is based on a clear premise: We trust that people, when given the chance, will choose a future of freedom and peace. In the last 7 years, we have witnessed stirring moments in the history of liberty. We have seen citizens in Georgia and Ukraine stand up for their right to free and fair elections. We have seen people in Lebanon take to the streets to demand their independence. We have seen Afghans emerge from the tyranny of the Taliban to choose a new president and a new parliament. We have seen jubilant Iraqis holding up ink-stained fingers and celebrating their freedom. And these images of liberty have inspired us.

In the past 7 years, we have also seen images that have sobered us. We have watched throngs of mourners in Lebanon and Pakistan carrying the caskets of beloved leaders taken by the assassin's hand. We have seen wedding guests in blood-soaked finery staggering from a hotel in Jordan, Afghans and Iraqis blown up in mosques and markets, and trains in London and Madrid ripped apart by bombs. And on a clear September day, we saw thousands of our fellow citizens taken from us in an instant. These horrific images serve as a grim reminder: The advance of liberty is opposed by terrorists and extremists — evil men who despise freedom, despise America, and aim to subject millions to their violent rule.

Since September 11, we have taken the fight to these terrorists and extremists. We will stay on the offense, we will keep up the pressure, and we will deliver justice to the enemies of America.

We are engaged in the defining ideological struggle of the 21st century. The terrorists oppose every principle of humanity and decency that we hold dear. Yet in this war on terror, there is one thing we and our enemies agree on: In the long run, men and women who are free to determine their own destinies will reject terror and refuse to live in tyranny. That is why the terrorists are fighting to deny this choice to people in Lebanon,

Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the Palestinian Territories. And that is why, for the security of America and the peace of the world, we are spreading the hope of freedom.

In Afghanistan, America, our 25 NATO allies, and 15 partner nations are helping the Afghan people defend their freedom and rebuild their country. Thanks to the courage of these military and civilian personnel, a nation that was once a safe haven for al Qaida is now a young democracy where boys and girls are going to school, new roads and hospitals are being built, and people are looking to the future with new hope. These successes must continue, so we are adding 3,200 Marines to our forces in Afghanistan, where they will fight the terrorists and train the Afghan Army and police. Defeating the Taliban and al Qaida is critical to our security, and I thank the Congress for supporting America's vital mission in Afghanistan.

In Iraq, the terrorists and extremists are fighting to deny a proud people their liberty and to establish safe havens for attacks across the world. One year ago, our enemies were succeeding in their efforts to plunge Iraq into chaos. So we reviewed our strategy and changed course. We launched a surge of American forces into Iraq. And we gave our troops a new mission: Work with Iraqi forces to protect the Iraqi people, pursue the enemy in its strongholds, and deny the terrorists sanctuary anywhere in the country.

The Iraqi people quickly realized that something dramatic had happened. Those who had worried that America was preparing to abandon them instead saw tens of thousands of American forces flowing into their country. They saw our forces moving into neighborhoods, clearing out the terrorists, and staying behind to ensure the enemy did not return. And they saw our troops, along with Provincial Reconstruction Teams that include Foreign Service Officers and other skilled public servants, coming in to ensure that improved security was followed by improvements in daily life. Our military and civilians in Iraq are performing with courage and distinction, and they have the gratitude of our whole Nation.

The Iraqis launched a surge of their own. In the fall of 2006, Sunni tribal leaders grew tired of al Qaida's brutality and started a popular uprising called "The Anbar Awakening." Over the past year, similar movements have spread across the country. And today, this grassroots surge includes more than 80,000 Iraqi citizens who are fighting the terrorists. The government in Baghdad has stepped forward as well — adding more than 100,000 new Iraqi soldiers and police during the past year.

While the enemy is still dangerous and more work remains, the American and Iraqi surges have achieved results few of us could have imagined just 1 year ago:

When we met last year, many said containing the violence was impossible. A year later, high profile terrorist attacks are down, civilian deaths are down, and sectarian killings are down.

When we met last year, militia extremists — some armed and trained by Iran — were wreaking havoc in large areas of Iraq. A year later, Coalition and Iraqi forces have killed or captured hundreds of militia fighters. And Iraqis of all backgrounds increasingly realize that defeating these militia fighters is critical to the future of their country.

When we met last year, al Qaida had sanctuaries in many areas of Iraq, and their leaders had just offered American forces safe passage out of the country. Today, it is al Qaida that is searching for safe passage. They have been driven from many of the strongholds they once held, and over the past year, we have captured or killed thousands of extremists in Iraq, including hundreds of key al Qaida leaders and operatives. Last month, Osama bin Laden released a tape in which he railed against Iraqi tribal leaders who have turned on al Qaida and admitted that Coalition forces are growing stronger in Iraq. Ladies and gentlemen, some may deny the surge is working, but among the terrorists there is no doubt. Al Qaida is on the run in Iraq, and this enemy will be defeated.

When we met last year, our troop levels in Iraq were on the rise. Today, because of the progress just described, we are implementing a policy of "return on success," and the surge forces we sent to Iraq are beginning to come home.

This progress is a credit to the valor of our troops and the brilliance of their commanders. This evening, I want to speak directly to our men and women on the frontlines. Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen: In the past year, you have done everything we have asked of you, and more. Our Nation is grateful for your courage. We are proud of your accomplishments. And tonight in this hallowed chamber, with the American people as our witness, we make you a solemn pledge: In the fight ahead, you will have all you need to protect our Nation. And I ask the Congress to meet its responsibilities to these brave men and women by fully funding our troops.

Our enemies in Iraq have been hit hard. They are not yet defeated, and we can still expect tough fighting ahead. Our objective in the coming year is to sustain and build on the gains we made in 2007, while transitioning to the next phase of our strategy. American troops are shifting from leading operations, to partnering with Iraqi forces, and, eventually, to a protective overwatch mission. As part of this transition, one Army brigade combat team and one Marine Expeditionary Unit have already come home and will not be replaced. In the coming months, four additional brigades and two Marine battalions will follow suit. Taken together, this means more than 20,000 of our troops are coming home.

Any further drawdown of U.S. troops will be based on conditions in Iraq and the recommendations of our commanders. General Petraeus has warned that too fast a drawdown could result in the "disintegration of the Iraqi Security Forces, al Qaida-Iraq regaining lost ground, [and] a marked increase in violence." Members of Congress: Having come so far and achieved so much, we must not allow this to happen.

In the coming year, we will work with Iraqi leaders as they build on the progress they are making toward political reconciliation. At the local level, Sunnis, Shia, and Kurds are beginning to come together to reclaim their communities and rebuild their lives. Progress in the provinces must be matched by progress in Baghdad. And we are seeing some encouraging signs. The national government is sharing oil revenues with the provinces. The parliament recently passed both a pension law and de-Ba'athification reform. Now they are debating a provincial powers law. The Iraqis still have a distance to travel. But after decades of dictatorship and the pain of sectarian violence, reconciliation is taking place — and the Iraqi people are taking control of their future.

The mission in Iraq has been difficult and trying for our Nation. But it is in the vital interest of the United States that we succeed. A free Iraq will deny al Qaida a safe haven. A free Iraq will show millions across the Middle East that a future of liberty is possible. And a free Iraq will be a friend of America, a partner in fighting terror, and a source of stability in a dangerous part of the world.

By contrast, a failed Iraq would embolden extremists, strengthen Iran, and give terrorists a base from which to launch new attacks on our friends, our allies, and our homeland. The enemy has made its intentions clear. At a time when the momentum seemed to favor them, al Qaida's top commander in Iraq declared that they will not rest until they have attacked us here in Washington. My fellow Americans: We will not rest either. We will not rest until this enemy has been defeated. We must do the difficult work today, so that years from now people will look back and say that this generation rose to the moment, prevailed in a tough fight, and left behind a more hopeful region and a safer America.

We are also standing against the forces of extremism in the Holy Land, where we have new cause for hope. Palestinians have elected a president who recognizes that confronting terror is essential to achieving a state where his people can live in dignity and at peace with Israel. Israelis have leaders who recognize that a peaceful, democratic Palestinian state will be a source of lasting security. This month in Ramallah and Jerusalem, I assured leaders from both sides that America will do, and I will do, everything we can to help them achieve a peace agreement that defines a Palestinian state by the end of this year. The time has come for a Holy Land where a democratic Israel and a democratic Palestine live side-by-side in peace.

We are also standing against the forces of extremism embodied by the regime in Tehran. Iran's rulers oppress a good and talented people. And wherever freedom advances in the Middle East, it seems the Iranian regime is there to oppose it. Iran is funding and training militia groups in Iraq, supporting Hezbollah terrorists in Lebanon, and backing Hamas' efforts to undermine peace in the Holy Land. Tehran is also developing ballistic missiles of increasing range and continues to develop its capability to enrich uranium, which could be used to create a nuclear weapon. Our message to the people of Iran is clear: We have no quarrel with you, we respect your traditions and your history, and we look forward to the day when you have your freedom. Our message to the leaders of Iran is also clear: Verifiably suspend your nuclear enrichment, so negotiations can begin. And to rejoin the community of nations, come clean about your nuclear intentions and past actions, stop your oppression at home, and cease your support for terror abroad. But above all, know this: America will confront those who threaten our troops, we will stand by our allies, and we will defend our vital interests in the Persian Gulf.

On the homefront, we will continue to take every lawful and effective measure to protect our country. This is our most solemn duty. We are grateful that there has not been another attack on our soil since September 11. This is not for a lack of desire or effort on the part of the enemy. In the past 6 years, we have stopped numerous attacks, including a plot to fly a plane into the tallest building in Los Angeles and another to blow up passenger jets bound for America over the Atlantic. Dedicated men and women in our Government toil day and night to stop the terrorists from carrying out their plans. These good citizens are saving American lives, and everyone in this chamber owes them our thanks. And we owe them something more: We owe them the tools they need to keep our people safe.

One of the most important tools we can give them is the ability to monitor terrorist communications. To protect America, we need to know who the terrorists are talking to, what they are saying, and what they are planning. Last year, the Congress passed legislation to help us do that. Unfortunately, the Congress set the legislation to expire on February 1. This means that if you do not act by Friday, our ability to track terrorist threats would be weakened and our citizens will be in greater danger. The Congress must ensure the flow of vital intelligence is not disrupted. The Congress must pass liability protection for companies believed to have assisted in the efforts to defend America. We have had ample time for debate. The time to act is now.

Protecting our Nation from the dangers of a new century requires more than good intelligence and a strong military. It also requires changing the conditions that breed resentment and allow extremists to prey on despair. So America is using its influence to build a freer, more hopeful, and more compassionate world. This is a reflection of our national interest and the calling of our conscience.

America is opposing genocide in Sudan and supporting freedom in countries from Cuba and Zimbabwe to Belarus and Burma.

America is leading the fight against global poverty, with strong education initiatives and humanitarian assistance. We have also changed the way we deliver aid by launching the Millennium Challenge Account. This program strengthens democracy, transparency, and the rule of law in developing nations, and I ask you to fully fund this important initiative.

America is leading the fight against global hunger. Today, more than half the world's food aid comes from the United States. And tonight, I ask the Congress to support an innovative proposal to provide food assistance by purchasing crops directly from farmers in the developing world, so we can build up local agriculture and help break the cycle of famine.

America is leading the fight against disease. With your help, we are working to cut by half the number of malaria-related deaths in 15 African nations. And our Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief is treating 1.4 million people. We can bring healing and hope to many more. So I ask you to maintain the principles that have changed behavior and made this program a success. And I call on you to double our initial commitment to fighting HIV/AIDS by approving an additional $30 billion over the next 5 years.

America is a force for hope in the world because we are a compassionate people, and some of the most compassionate Americans are those who have stepped forward to protect us. We must keep faith with all who have risked life and limb so that we might live in freedom and peace. Over the past 7 years, we have increased funding for veterans by more than 95 percent. As we increase funding, we must also reform our veterans system to meet the needs of a new war and a new generation. I call on the Congress to enact the reforms recommended by Senator Bob Dole and Secretary Donna Shalala, so we can improve the system of care for our wounded warriors and help them build lives of hope, promise, and dignity.

Our military families also sacrifice for America. They endure sleepless nights and the daily struggle of providing for children while a loved one is serving far from home. We have a responsibility to provide for them. So I ask you to join me in expanding their access to childcare, creating new hiring preferences for military spouses across the Federal Government, and allowing our troops to transfer their unused education benefits to their spouses or children. Our military families serve our Nation, they inspire our Nation, and tonight our Nation honors them.

The secret of our strength, the miracle of America, is that our greatness lies not in our Government, but in the spirit and determination of our people. When the Federal Convention met in Philadelphia in 1787, our Nation was bound by the Articles of Confederation, which began with the words, "We the undersigned delegates." When Gouverneur Morris was asked to draft the preamble to our new Constitution, he offered an important revision and opened with words that changed the course of our Nation and the history of the world: "We the people."

By trusting the people, our Founders wagered that a great and noble Nation could be built on the liberty that resides in the hearts of all men and women. By trusting the people, succeeding generations transformed our fragile young democracy into the most powerful Nation on earth and a beacon of hope for millions. And so long as we continue to trust the people, our Nation will prosper, our liberty will be secure, and the State of our Union will remain strong. So tonight, with confidence in freedom's power, and trust in the people, let us set forth to do their business.
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Pictures of Near-Miss Asteroid

Here's TU24.. It will pass "near by" today about 40% further out than the moon. That's pretty close in solar system terms, but I vaguely remember hearing of one that comes closer than the moon. Still there is no chance of this hitting us anytime, unless some evil scientist fires a freaking shark mounted laser at it and changes it's orbit....


FOXNews.com - First Blurry Pictures of Near-Miss Asteroid Released - Science News | Science & Technology | Technology News [This Post Continues after the jump...]

GOP on Earmarks

This is the first I've heard of this executive order. Apparently some "earmarks" are not actually in the law as passed and signed, but in "supporting documentation" or "reports". I've never heard of this before.

But Bush won't stop it because they don't want the next President to be able to stop their earmarks. Which is silly because the next president can "undo" the executive order or write their own. So since the cat is out of the bag (meaning that the idea is getting publicized and not a secret idea of the GOP only) there is no risk to doing it.

Someone should ask one of the candidates what they would do...


Tapscotts Copy Desk: Deja Vu all over again Here comes the big collapse by Bush Hill GOP on earmarks - Examiner.com

*** UPDATE ***

In the State of the Union Address, Bush said he would sign this executive order. This sounds like good news to me. [This Post Continues after the jump...]

Fence is orange; neighbors see red

I don't know all the facts of this, but it seems like the HOA didn't allow this guy to connect an entrance to his property to a road on their property. As a result the land owner can't sell or lease his land to a Bank, or to any other business for that matter because of access, parking issues. Again I don't know all the facts and maybe he has options. But I assume the land is "zoned" for business, but the HOA won't allow what is a reasonable use of the land. The HOA certainly is within it's rights to grant or not grant driveway access to/through it's land, but they should reconsider. A bank might no be as bad as a orange fence. The HOA must accept the fact that they don't own that land and can't control it. They can't use their control of access as leverage, but they have to allow this guy to use his land from something, or they will get something worse.

The city should stay out of it. As long as neither side does anything clearly against code, the city should not put them under a microscope looking for minor violations. Let them work it out themselves.

Fence is orange; neighbors see red | floridatoday.com | Serving Brevard County and Florida’s Space Coast [This Post Continues after the jump...]

DRM-Free Music Spells Trouble

I could not DISAGREE more with this.

DRM is a form of control AFTER the sell. What other products to producers still control AFTER they sell it to you? Does FORD limit where I can drive my car? No! Then why should a movie studio limit which laptop or PMP I watch a movie on (after I paid for it). DRM is an artificial control placed on digital media and I'm happy to see it go.

This doesn't spell trouble, it spells flexibility. But it does it spells the end of high profits from selling low cost copies of music and movies. Ford would love to spend millions designing a new car, but mass produce copies of the car for $500 while selling them for 20 thousand dollars each. The days of selling a CD or DVD for over $20 when it only costs 50 cents to make are over. Movies were invented when the only way to make money from them was from the box office, now they make more money on DVD sales. But have the prices at the box office gone down any? I dont' think they will go out of business if the insanely high DVD profit goes away.

The idea that it is OK to make 4000% profit on selling a plastic disk is dead. Movies will have to make their money in the movie theater, singers and performers will have to make their money at the concert hall. They will still make some profit off of DVD and CD sells (or whatever medium replaces them including downloads) but the cost of these will be much closer to the actual cost to make the discs than it is now. And this is a GOOD THING, not trouble.

DRM-Free Music Spells Trouble: Digitization - Columns by PC Magazine

http://www.ehomeupgrade.com/entry/4663/drm-free_music_spells [This Post Continues after the jump...]

Photo Shows Humanoid on Mars ?

It looks a little like BIG FOOT to me... except it's only a few inches tall...and it's a rock...


FOXNews.com - NASA Photo Shows Humanoid Figure on Mars - Science News | Science & Technology | Technology News [This Post Continues after the jump...]

The Problem with -The Story of Stuff

OK, I ran across this a few weeks ago and I'm finally posting it. Not because I agree with it all, but because it does make one think.

http://www.storyofstuff.com/index.html


The sad thing is that they don't think their ideas are good enough to make anyone that disagreed with them to actually re-think the issue. So they have to be insulting, and take cheap shots, and over generalize just about everything. But if you can get past that, it is interesting.

But here is my problem with it. I really wish the people who really cared about this (and similar issues) would stop the rhetoric and offer REAL solutions. They don't offer any real solution, and after watching this you'll think the problem is so BIG and so endemic that only "radical" change will do any good. And that's the problem. Like the climate change doomsayers, they are preparing people for radical extreme action by super-exaggerating of the problem. They are not really concerned with fixing the real problems, but one day they just might get enough people to follow them on their radical fixes, and I don't want to be around when they do, or afterwards.javascript:void(0)
Publish Post [This Post Continues after the jump...]

Where Are the Software Engineers of Tomorrow?

Not one of my usual topics, but one I found interesting.

I think we need to realize that there are two classes of computer programmers now, the ones like me that program a small tool to get a specific job done, like analyzing a data stream, or displaying data in human readable formats, and then the programmers that do all the "behind the scenes" work.

It's kind of interesting that as things get EASIER for me, they actually get HARDER for the real programmers developing all the tools.

STSC CrossTalk - Computer Science Education: Where Are the Software Engineers of Tomorrow? - Jan 2008


*** UPDATE ***

Who Killed the Software Engineer? (Hint: It Happened in College)

To sum up Dewar’s argument: today’s college computer science programs aren’t rigorous enough, and don’t promote in-depth thinking and problem solving. Instead, in an effort to boost enrollment, CS programs focus on easily accessible curricula, and so fail to prepare students to compete with their international peers.

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Democratic Debate - Live Blogging

Well, I'm watching the debate and I'm not impressed. This is my first attempt at "Live Blogging"....

VOTING RECORD

They are getting wrapped around the axle about their records. Each one picks a post vote of another candidate and criticizes it. When the person tries to defend themselves they have two problems.

1) They might not remember the facts of that particular bill. If they mispeak, they will be called on it later, if they don't comment, they look weak.

2) There might have been a good reason for them to vote how they did, but it can't be summed up in 30-90 seconds. The attack is a quick and clean sound bite for the evening news, the defene is awkward and detail oriented.


HEALTH CARE

Now they are on health care. Hilary got her sound bite and AND criticized Obama on his past votes. They are arguing over mandatory insurance, and both Clinton and Edwards think it will help to FORCE people to get coverage when they can't afford. Obama thinks those who want and need it will get it if they can afford it even if it is not "required". None of them address how it will become affordable or better than now.


IRAQ

Now they are on Iraq

• Clinton - Will start pulling troops within 60 days of taking office. Nearly all out by end of the year.
• Edwards - ALL troops out of combat in first year, no permanent bases
• Obama - Says money could be used for "boardband lines" (sounds like "let them surf the internet" to me)

Clinton is opposed to Bush's plan to make deals with Iraq about bases. Clinton says it's a treaty and would need Senate approval. I haven't heard anything on this, but she sounds right.

Now a commercial and intermission... [This Post Continues after the jump...]

McCain Wins South Carolina

Wow, I actually liked McCain back when the press declared him dead.. I even sent him money, something I've hardly ever done before and never done this early in a campaign. I've given to the Republicans in general for use in the election, but I've never really paid much attention to the primaries. Maybe because Florida always seemed to have no say in who would win.

But this year, I've supported McCain from the start, and he's doing Great. Still a long way to go, but there is hope.

You Decide 08! » McCain Defeats Huckabee, Rest of Pack in South Carolina Republican Primary [This Post Continues after the jump...]

The RIAA speaks--and it gets worse

All I can say to the RIAA, is that it is better to remain silent and have the world think you a fool.... than to open your mouth and remove all doubt!!

The RIAA speaks--and it gets worse | The Digital Home - Don Reisinger's take on the tech closest to home - CNET Blogs [This Post Continues after the jump...]

Recording industry should brace for more bad news

Recording industry should brace for more bad news | Perspectives | CNET News.com
By Wayne Rosso
Story last modified Wed Jan 16 16:51:02 PST 2008

The recording industry is facing yet more bad news.

Forget about Warner Music Group's plummeting stock price, or the shrinking retail floor space. Forget about EMI's announcement this week that it's cutting 1,500 to 2,000 jobs. At least the new owners of EMI are recognizing that they bought into a dead industry and are trying to confront it head-on with significant changes in business strategy. It remains to be seen if the suits who now own EMI can navigate the shark-infested waters of a business that feeds on schadenfreude.

The big problem that EMI, and by extension the rest of the industry, faces is the sudden stampede of brand-name artists away from the traditional recording companies. The Eagles are with Wal-Mart, Madonna left Warner for Live Nation, a concert promotion company. EMI has lost Paul McCartney and Radiohead, and Coldplay is said to be threatening to leave. Last week, the label's biggest seller, Robbie Williams, announced that he too would be leaving the label. All pretty devastating.

Record companies have always depended on the revenue and cash flow generated from platinum-selling artists to finance new talent. If that revenue stream disappears, how can they compete?
The case of Robbie Williams is very interesting and will probably be studied in business schools for years to come.

The case of Robbie Williams is very interesting and will probably be studied in business schools for years to come. Williams' managers, Tim Clark and David Enthoven of IE Music, are two of the most savvy, straight-shooting entrepreneurs in the business. They worked diligently to build Williams into a global superstar and then broke industry tradition by virtually creating a new music industry model, the 360 deal. They formed a joint venture between Robbie and EMI. For 80 million pounds ($157 million), EMI got a minority stake in the venture, which included all of the revenue that Williams generates--concerts, record sales, merchandising, sponsorships.

At the time, EMI was assailed for being a sucker, but the reality is that it made a great deal and it has more than paid off. This model has since been duplicated by Linkin Park, Madonna, and several other artists. It has become the rage du jour in record label business affairs departments and hailed as the model that will save the business.

But what Clark and Enthoven realize is that the point in time has come where major artists can do it themselves. First you had the Radiohead experiment. The band has been criticized by industry and media types for botching it and leaving a lot of money on the table. The important issue is that Radiohead made a bold first step, no matter how successful it was. Now artists like Williams can take full control of their assets, and enlightened managers like Clark and Enthoven can implement groundbreaking models that heretofore have been stymied by old-school thinking.

If you're a big enough star, you just don't need a record label anymore. In fact, even if you're an unknown, Clark and Enthoven have shown that you don't need a major record company behind you to be successful. Backed with money from London-based venture firm Ingenious, they just made a deal for a new singer named Sia with Starbucks. The Sia record will enter the charts in the Top 40 in its first week of release.

I don't know if Williams will sign with another record label or not. I really doubt it. The bottom line is that music has lost its economic value to consumers. But it still has emotional value. People will never stop listening to music. They've just stopped paying for it. So the challenge comes in figuring out how to capitalize on that emotional value. There are lots of ways to do that and guys like Williams, Clark, and Enthoven are sure to find them and transform the landscape.


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Ford Calims to OWN all photos of Ford Cars

UNBELIEVABLE!!

Think you are free to use any photos you take of your own property?
Think again!!

Ford says you can't use your own photos of your own car the way you want to use them..

I hope this is quickly shot to hell...

Ford Slaps Brand Enthusiasts, Returns Love With Legal Punch » Adrants

Ford: Car owners are pirates if.... [This Post Continues after the jump...]

Researchers create beating heart in lab | Science Blog

WOW... all I can say is WOW...

Cells from a Rat embryo or newborn were used here, but the idea is that cells from an adult rat could be used without killing the adult rat. The same adult rat would then get the new heart.
(well, the REAL idea is to do this on humans, but you know what I mean....)

Researchers create beating heart in lab | Science Blog [This Post Continues after the jump...]

An Islamic Jesus?

Interesting....
In my own research into Islam (reading some of the Koran) I was in fact surprised at how much Islam and Christianity have in common. So much so that I would think of Muslims similarly to the way I think of Jews, They both worship the same God as I do, they just missed the coming of the messiah (Jesus).

I honestly believe (or perhaps hope) that God has someway to "saving" people who honestly believe in him, but not Jesus. I don't understand it, but God saves whomever he wants to save, so I pray that somewhere in the mysteries of God, there is a way for this to be done. I don't have to understand it, for it to be true.

If Muslims had similar beliefs the world would be much more peaceful. Particular if they could accept the idea of some sort of separation between "religion" and "state".

'Islamic Jesus' hits Iranian movie screens [This Post Continues after the jump...]

Clinton - Women Can't be Illegal Immigrants

Clinton said today that "No woman is illegal" when a man said his wife was "illegal". It seems obvious the man was saying his wife was an illegal immigrant, and Hillary seemed to be saying the law doesn't apply to WOMEN. Is this what Clinton stands for? Special treatment for people who break the law just because they are women? As President is she not going to enforce the law equally. She might with immigration law, because it will all be equally UNENFORCED with her as President.


ReviewJournal.com - News - LAS VEGAS STOP: Clinton pitch hits home
(You have to scroll about halfway down the story to see the quote.) [This Post Continues after the jump...]

A Music Tax

This sounds like the CD tax Canada has. Since CD could be used to copy music, the music idustry gets a cut of EVERY CD sold.

Great idea if you're the Music Industry, but silly otherwise.

The Music Industry’s Last Stand Will Be A Music Tax [This Post Continues after the jump...]

Voter Fraud Rumors in New Hampshire Primaries

Slashdot | Diebold Voter Fraud Rumors in New Hampshire Primaries

Well this didn't take LONG...

and of course it's TRUE because the exit polls agree with it...
..and it would hurt Clinton.... and Clinton has friends willing and able to do something like this.. [This Post Continues after the jump...]

RIAA suing citizen for copying legally purchased CDs to PC

See... I told you so....

Download Uproar: Record Industry Goes After Personal Use

RIAA suing citizen for copying legally purchased CDs to PC - Engadget

I've heard that this may be a misterpretation, that the RIAA is suing the guy for copying the music AND putting in a folder that was "shared" via a P2P program (not just "shared" on a local network like the "my shared music" folder on a PC)

However, the story is still alive and well on the internet, and anything that is bad press for the RIAA is good for everyone else.


** UPDATE **

Ok, the gig is up.... the RIAA stops short of stating it believes "personal" use copies are fully legal, but nothing in any RIAA lawsuit actually charges someone with making personal copies on a PC or iPod.

Not that they don't want to, and some record companies have in the past said ripping a CD was infringement, but the RIAA is smart enough to give up on that issue. They're assholes, not idiots.

http://crave.cnet.com/8301-1_105-9839897-1.html



** CORRECTION **

The WashingtonPost Issues an official correction. [This Post Continues after the jump...]

Pat Robertson Tries Again

FOXNews.com - Pat Robertson Predicts Worldwide Violence, U.S. Recession in 2008 - Local News | News Articles | National News | US News

Last year's prediction (Terrorist attack with mass killing and maybe a nuclear weapon) didn't come true, so this year's is a little bit less dramatic. [This Post Continues after the jump...]