October 31, 2004
A Bright Samhain To All
Enjoy the day, have fun tonight, and on this day where the walls grow thin, remember those departed with bright happy thoughts of good times, laughter, and all that was good about them.
LW
who also reminds the kid in all of us to be safe whilst trick-or-treating
October 30, 2004
Welcome To Food For Thought Saturday
Saturday at the Laughing Wolf is a day for good news and food for thought. This got started because of my Blogfather, Joe Katzman, and his good-news-only posts on Saturday. While we will post other news if it is needed, our hope is to keep Saturday’s a fun day, a philosophical day as much as we can. So, enjoy the food for thought, and while you are at it, go check out Sufi Wisdom at Winds of Change, food for thought at Who Tends The Fires, and the Saturday question of the day at Road Warrior Rules for Survival. Enjoy your day.
Staying In Touch
Yesterday, I had the unexpected pleasure of hearing from my supervisor at Playboy. We had stayed in touch for a while after my internship, but had lost touch when he left that job. Yesterday's e-mail was a delight, even if tinged with a bit of sadness at news of some deaths.
How good are you at staying in touch with those from your past? If there are people out there that you liked, respected, or enjoyed, why not do a little searching and drop them a line. The effort is minimal, and the rewards great.
Just a thought for the day.
LW
October 29, 2004
Carnival Of The Recipes #11 Is Up!
Go to Mountaineer Musings for a lot of tasty treats. Thanks to SarahK for hosting this week. Well, what are you waiting for, go check it out.
LW
Let's Be Careful Out There
Election Day is just around the corner, and things are tense. Not only is this a very charged election with emotions running high, there is a real threat of an attack intended to disrupt or sway the elections. I had put my money on six weeks out, but we are past that, and if an attack does occur and it follows the Spanish model, it will be Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. I will not be happy or relaxed until the election is safely behind us, and hope that nothing does happen.
So, I ask you to be careful. Don't let them pull you down to their level. Do keep an eye out, be careful out there, and be prepared. They can only win if we let them.
Be an informed voter -- and in the process show that you are indeed a good Citizen and not anyone's subject. That in and of itself is the best way to spit in the eye of all enemies of liberty and the Republic.
LW
Carnival Of The Recipes
Here is this week's entry in the Carnival, hope you enjoy it.
Southwestern Truffled Chicken
Hardware:
Cutting board
Aluminum foil
Grill or Oven
Knife
Ingredients:
Whole chicken
Shitake mushrooms
Crimini mushrooms
Oyster mushrooms (optional)
Other mushrooms (optional)
White truffle oil
Black truffle powder
Chipotle
salt
pepper
oil or butter
Directions:
Cut mushrooms into strips/slices, and toss with a small amount of truffle oil. Stuff inside chicken. Coat the outside with a light amount of oil/butter, then hit with salt, pepper, pinch of chipotle (or more to your taste), and some truffle powder. Wrap tightly in foil and either cook on the grill for several hours or roast for several hours at low heat (200-250) until fall-apart tender. Enjoy.
LW
October 28, 2004
They Were With The Russians Too...
With apologies to Warren, I could not resist the title. The buzz of the day is that the Russians may have helped Saddam clean out a lot of his weapons, including the missing explosives. There is good coverage at Winds of Change, where it is also pointed out that this is not necessarily new news, but old. Go read, dig, and enjoy.
LW
who just had the nasty thought pop in that makes him wonder if "Lawyers, Guns, and Money" is the DNC theme song this year...
I Agree With The Ladies
Both Meryl Yourish and Kathy Kinsley do a good job of summing things up. I, too, disagree with W on many things but one thing trumps them all: the war on terror. Kerry is a liar and quite probably worse, and has demonstrated over the last 40 years that he is not fit for command of a rowboat, much less Commander In Chief in time of war. Blackfive brings up just a part of the why, the now why and not the Vietnam why, in his post. This post and those linked within raise even stronger concerns.
I do not want as President someone: who sees the war on terror and fantasy ideology as a law enforcement issue; who who will make action contingent upon external approval or veto; who will wait until we are attacked again to respond; and, most of all, who has clearly demonstrated that his response will likely be to cut and run or do something ineffective.
No, we need a strong leader who has the courage of his convictions and is not beholden to anyone other than the Amerrican people. That is why I will vote for Bush.
LW
A Quick Commie Guide
It what may be the shortest post he has ever done, Ironbear provides the core links for those interested.
LW
October 27, 2004
The ABC Tape
For the latest on the terrorist threat delivered to ABC, go to here and here at Little Green Footballs, here at The Command Post, and here at Drudge. More on this as it develops.
LW
Another Story Sliding Under The Wire?
For the last couple of days, I've been watching an interesting story develop at Grim's Hall. This one needs some serious investigation and follow-up, and is not going to get it from the Old Media. Pay attention to this one folks.
LW
You Need To Read This
Right now. Go here and read this. The F word is there in abundance, but so is a moving story and some of the best damn writing around. Those voting need to be sure to read the last paragraph. I meant to post this sooner, and really should have, but it is up now. Take the time and read it now.
LW
Put Down The Drinks
And go here and see what the Swift Geese Veterans For Truth are up to today. Thanks to Spoons for the hat tip.
LW
Silencing Indymedia? Not so much...
There is a very good post up at Volokh on the Indymedia server story. With no great surprise, it offers some strong evidence that all is not as it is portrayed, and that a lot of the reporting on the story has been bad. Once again, it may be that this bad is because of a lack of knowledge of the law. The need for, and problems with getting, such specialized coverage are discussed here.
LW
Protein Wisdom Is At It Again
With a hilarious take on the news. Go check it out, but put the drinks down first. Thanks to Triticale for the heads-up on this one.
LW
Some Odd TV Thoughts
There is just something fundamentally wrong with R. Lee Ermey as a bunny. Especially one with a fluffy ass.
Why is it that watching Sasha Alexander on NCIS, sparring, that I thought of Bou? Note to self, wear cup if you ever spar or do randori with her.
LW
Kerry And The Communists
This story looks to have some serious legs, and now you can go here to download the documents and decide on them for yourself. This courtesy of the Good Dr. Shackleford who has an extensive and thought provoking post here.
I'm not terribly surprised as it has long been accepted that the Soviets were backing various movments, but the apparent extent of Vietnamese involvement has never been documented openly to this extent before. I am not terribly surprised, given his record including some interesting positions in Congress, that Kerry is so featured. It is interesting that some of this came up from the Swifties, who have a picture in the book showing the high esteem in which the North Vietnamese hold Kerry and the credit they give him.
LW
October 26, 2004
Cabbies Versus The PC Police
Michelle Malkin brings the story of yet another NYC cabby fined, this time for daring to support the war in Iraq. Can you say Kangaroo Court? I knew you could...
LW
Glad I Am Moving II -- I May Be Sick
Well, my favorite manager has called twice now and the situation is as follows:
1. She agrees the hair is not mine.
2. According to the electronic lock, no key other than mine has been in the lock since the 19th. Unless someone got in here without it registering somehow, that means that my brush(es?) were used on the 19th or before and I have been using them unaware since. Ick. Ick. Ick.
3. It is unclear to me at this point if they are going to reimburse me for any of the new brushes and such. To be honest, I almost don't care as I just want out of here and would leave now if the room were not paid for until Thursday.
4. Until now, I would have recommended this place to anyone needed extended stay as most of the staff has been good/friendly, and a couple of them outstanding. Only one Mr. Minimal to deal with, and at least two go-the-extra-mile types. As it is, I can't recommend it now and no reimbursement or other will change that.
More as it develops.
LW
Happy Blogday Commissar!
In the better late than never department, come best wishes and congratulations to The Commissar who has made the last year very interesting, entertaining, and fun. May you have many more such celebrations!
LW
Yet Another Attempt To Influence The Election?
Also courtesy of Little Green Footballs comes this bombshell about the source of the missing explosives story. Interesting and interestinger, and it is also pretty clear that CBS has yet to learn its lesson on trying to play politics with the news. This does not bode well on several levels, including that this story may not have been news to the Kerry camp. Then again, it's not like it's the first time either. Now, it may be one of those stories that is just too good as discussed below, but it sure does tie in with a lot of other evidence...
LW
UPDATE: Michelle Malkin, as always, has some good thoughts and additional links here.
UPDATE II: The Kerry story is gaining legs, and the folks over at Wizbang are on the case with some good legwork. Stay tuned, this one could be very interesting.
Yet Another Good Political Commercial
Is right here and was found courtesy of Little Green Footballs. I may never look at weddings the same way again.
LW
The Guardian And The Threat
As far as the story about The Guardian goes, Lileks sums it up rather nicely. Joke or attempt at humor my Aunt Sweet Sally. Then again, this is just another symptom of a larger problem, and the need for a longer post, just as is the reprehensible and repulsive behavior of O'Donnell. More on this soon, I hope.
LW
PS: Oh, yes, he does take on Maher very well too. Then again, I am glad he did so I don't have to participate in the sham, sham I say, that is the pseudo-intellectual mental masturbation that is the forte of Maher.
UPDATE: Stan of the excellent Logic and Sanity points out this truly outstanding post by Mark Steyn in the comments. Read it, think, and weep, for it is painfully on the point.
I Am So Glad I Am Moving
Am in the process of moving this week into a new temporary lair, one with a full-size, real, honest-to-goodness kitchen. My joy at this just took on a sense of urgency and nausea as I discovered this morning that someone yesterday came into my current lodgings and used -- at the very least -- my hair brush. Someone with much longer and different hair used my curry comb, and I am not amused. I am not amused to the point that the brush, toothbrush, and anything else out is in the process of being cleaned and sterilized as we "speak" and I am going to speak quite strongly to management about it here in a few. There had been one previous incident where I suspected something, but now I do indeed know.
LW
UPDATE 1: Just spoke with my favorite manager here, and she is not happy now too. They are going to try to read the lock to see if they can tell who has come in when. I don't really expect a lot out of it, but can hope.
Where's The Boom?
There was supposed to be an Earth-shattering kaboom! And I bet that is what a lot of people in the Old Media and the DNC wanted with the story yesterday of the missing explosives. The cries were immediate and loud about how Bush screwed up yet again, the massive danger we were all in because of the less than one percent of conventional explosives in Iraq that are missing. But, wait! As it turns out, the explosives were not there from the start, a fact confirmed by the Old Media itself.
I expect a lot more lies, distortions, and attempts to influence the election from all sides, particularly the radical extreme. Nor is that limited to here -- I expect as many attacks as possible to be launched in Iraq and even in Afghanistan. I still expect an attack here before or on election day, but hope to be proven wrong.
Short version is, check any story out thoroughly, no matter how good it is or how much you want it to be true.
LW
October 25, 2004
The Choice We Face
Despite what you may think, the upcoming election is not between Bush and Kerry. Nor is it between any slate of local or regional candidates. As I noted before, we are now in the midst of the keystone battle of the Enlightenment for our generation. The choices we make on 2 November will have consequences that will shape our world for a generation or more – not just for a four year term.
The Enlightenment is the true philosophical cornerstone upon which the Great Experiment that is America is founded. While Judeo-Christian concepts influenced individuals and helped shape the Enlightenment, they did not necessarily do so as most people believe. To better understand the choices we face, some background is needed.
The Enlightenment is a broad historical period beginning in the 1600s and culminating in the late the 1700s. It was revolutionary for its day, and was treated as such by many established powers ranging from various religious institutions to autocratic rulers. A good example of the latter was Tsarina Catherine of Russia who banned all discussion and dissemination on the topics, a decision that affects world politics to this day. This is important because in Western Civilization, the Enlightenment was discussed by and aimed at all levels of society, not just a particular elite.
All of this could be said to originate with Thomas Hobbes (1588-1679), who postulated the first modern concept of the theory of the Social Contract. In broadest terms, such theories attempt to lay out the duties and obligations between people, with a focus on levels of authority. The emphasis is placed in all on the need to play by the rules on all parts, so that society functions smoothly. It was Hobbes who proposed the radical idea that an absolute ruler was needed, but chosen by consent rather than divine right, and thus laid the foundation for the modern republic.
His work was picked up and expanded by John Locke (1632-1704), who developed a new model of the Social Contract and provided what was to become the philosophical base of the Enlightenment. That base is a tripod: reason, nature, and progress. This work was further expanded by Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778), who literally wrote the book on the Social Contract. In addition, the Enlightenment includes an evolution of thought through the works of George Berkeley (1685-1753), David Hume (1711-1776), and Immanuel Kant (1724-1804).
Some historical context is also in order. During the 1600s, the world was in a great deal of turmoil as wars of empire and religion rolled across Europe. The remnants of the Holy Roman Empire clashed with England, Sweden, and others while the Roman Catholic Church sought to regain monopoly by force. Various forms of Inquisition were in progress, and these were not limited to the Church of Rome. Kings and aristocracy were also fighting to retain divine right and to preserve the idea of nobility as natural leaders over lesser peoples. Amidst this, a revolution in science was underway, with Newton and others leading a successful challenge to Aristotle. Add to the mix the spread of the printing press and a growing literacy rate, and it is quite safe to call the times interesting. For those who would like some fun context, allow me to recommend Eric Flint’s 1633 series.
It was amidst this turmoil that the Enlightenment developed. At its heart is the radical notion that people, individuals, of all types can make informed and reasoned decisions for themselves, and that it was possible to understand the world around us. With knowledge and reason, progress – making a heaven on Earth – was not merely possible but probable.
This notion was not necessarily well received, because it was fundamentally opposed to the concepts of divine right and aristocracy. It also challenged all religions, not just Christianity, because it said holds that the world operates by a set of laws and not on magical whim. In short, it mounted a direct attack on the established order. What makes this different from most revolutionary philosophies was that it allowed and encouraged attacks upon itself by including the concept of growth based on new knowledge. As a side note for now, that helped shape the governance of America because the Founding Fathers included provisions for changing our government as knowledge grew and situations altered based in part on this premise.
To my mind, Locke lies at the heart of the choices we face. It was his concept of tabula rasa that has laid the foundation for modern thought, modern education, modern juvenile justice, and modern socialism and communism. It also provides the philosophical heart of the “its for the children movement,” a topic that deserves a much fuller discussion later. A very gross summation of this concept is that all people are born blank, that what they become depends upon the education they receive and the experiences of early life. In short, all men are created equal and with certain natural rights that include life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
What grew from Locke’s work was the idea that all people could be taught reason, based on logic and science, and given the proper information arrive at good decisions for their life. The key points were the concepts of tabula rasa, education, and humanism. In this sense, humanism was not atheism, but rather placing a human-centric rather than diety-centric view of the world in the mind of man.
All of this is important to us because it did lead to the philosophical concepts that are socialism and communism. The quick version is that the Enlightenment has spawned two very different world views. In one, individuals are fully rational, capable of making their own decisions, and capable of self-control and self-governance. The other takes the concept that people are not capable of self-control and self-governance, and require the state to run their lives and ensure proper order. With proper indoctrination (education), people will recognize this and use what might be termed social logic to do what is best for the whole, not for the individual. This is one reason that socialists and communists have always focused on education, so that they can plant proper thought into the tabula rasa. Again, how this applies to education in America (and elsewhere) today is the topic for another day.
What this boils down to is that three different schools of thought have been at war for more than 200 years. You have the individual-centric view of the “classical” Enlightenment in the form of America as it existed in 1776. America is referred to as The Great Experiment because it was and is literally a scientific test-bed for those concepts. You have the concepts of socialism, fascism, and communism that are outgrowths of the most radical schools of thought of the Enlightenment. Finally, you have the autocracy/theocracy school, which is essentially the old world view of divine right and divine rule.
What we have had are the concepts of socialism, communism, and fascism at war among themselves and with “radical” America and pre-socialism Magna Carta England; a war between religions and humanism in all forms; a war between classical humanism and atheistic secular-humanism; and, a war between autocracy/theocracy and the combined concepts of the Enlightenment. At different times, this war has been fought with words, deeds, and armaments. On 2 November, it will be fought with votes.
The most obvious choice is between autocracy/theocracy and the Enlightenment. You have radical Islam out to convert by sword and bomb, versus the rest of the world. (The concepts of Islamification by assimilation and population growth is yet again the topic for another day) On the one hand, you have Bush who is prosecuting this as a war of armaments and ideals, literally attacking the leaders, bases of operations, and bases of support. The basic idea is simple: remove leadership; eliminate safe-havens and the ability to arm; remove the fight from American soil and in the process (fly paper) eliminate the most radical of enemy fighters; and, establish bases of philosophical assault by bringing basic concepts of the Enlightenment to the enemies homeland. There is a reason for the frantic and terrified efforts by the enemy to destroy the fledgling governments in Afghanistan and Iraq. On the other hand, you have Kerry who sees this as a law-enforcement issue at best and who has failed to articulate a clear plan other than that he would do better.
Yet there is another choice to be made. What we are voting on is also a choice between socialism and republic. The fact is, Kerry is representative of the socialist movement, of big government and the concept that a central authority is required to ensure that people act in the best manner for the whole. Would that I could say that Bush is for the opposite, but he is not. He is for a lesser socialism, but is just as married to the idea of a big central government as his opponent. As a result, the choice is between greater socialism and lesser.
This is a very brief summation, and as such it can be assaulted with justification for being overly simplistic and lacking in precision. Such points have validity in a philosophical plane and make for great academic arguments. Such arguments, no matter how fun and entertaining, do not diminish the ultimate fact.
Your vote this year is between autocracy/theocracy and the views of classical liberalism, between at least the rudiments of classical liberalism versus radical. The first choice should be relatively easy; the second may not be so easy for many. Think about the real choices we face, then educate yourself and vote as a responsible citizen. Remember that it is much more than a vote for an ephemeral party or candidate, for it is literally a vote for your philosophical and practical future.
LW
October 24, 2004
What Happens When A Black Backs Bush?
Logic & Sanity has the story and it isn't pretty. You can read the full story here. I hope someone takes up a collection for this guy, so he is not out the $5,000.00.
As for the twit who condescended to leture the man on what it meant to be black, DELETED The only person terrorized here was the cabbie, who got screwed by his passenger and then by the system that would not even grant his appeal a hearing. Feh.
LW
See The Movie Ashcroft's Thugs Don't Want You To See
And also read the book banned in Boston and everywhere else it can be banned or burned by the forces of intolerance. No, wait, my bad. That's not the evil Ashcroft Minions doing all this, it is the Kerry camp.
Go see Stolen Honor and do so now.
Go Buy The Video here.
While you are at it, Read The Book that so many don't want you to read.
Thanks to Sir Banagor for the hat tip.
LW
October 23, 2004
Welcome To Food For Thought Saturday
Saturday at the Laughing Wolf is a day for good news and food for thought. This got started because of my Blogfather, Joe Katzman, and his good-news-only posts on Saturday. While we will post other news if it is needed, our hope is to keep Saturday’s a fun day, a philosophical day as much as we can. So, enjoy the food for thought, and while you are at it, go check out Sufi Wisdom at Winds of Change, food for thought at Who Tends The Fires, and the Saturday question of the day at Road Warrior Rules for Survival. Enjoy your day.
Some Thoughts From The Way Of Peace
I realized this morning that it has been quite some time since I pulled anything from either the Tao Te Ching or The Way of Peace and decided that I would do so. In The Way of Peace (translated by John Stevens) I found a passage almost immediately that seems very appropriate for the times.
Left and right,
Avoid all
Cuts and parries.
Seize your opponents' minds
And scatter them all!
Think on this a bit today, and in the days ahead.
LW
October 22, 2004
She Is So On A Roll
Okay, she is thin and can be quite over the top, but she also can and does make a lot of sense on occasion. She was able to use her being thin and agile (mental and physical) to make the two oh-so-brave leftist loonies miss her with pies from less than five feet yesterday. Delightful. So is this interview where she is on a roll. I am still laughing, and Ann, if you do decide to come back, you can sit around in your pajamas with this loser any time. What can I say, I like them thin (and with brains). Thanks to INDC Journal for the hat tip.
LW
Heroes For Bush
Well, The Truth Laid Bear is doing Heroes For Bush and I decided I wanted to play. I toyed around with some ideas, and found that several had been done. I love what American Warmonger did! And that picture. Yes, Aeryn Sun is a fantasy of mine...
Robert Mitchum in the Longest Day: Men, soon only going to be one type of person left on this beach, those that voted for Kerry. The rest of us are going to vote for Bush and take this fight to the enemy. So pick up your vote and make it count. Now, let's move out!
Short, sweet, and to the point.
LW
W And The Wolves
This is simply a fantastic ad. Shades of Reagan and the bear, and the official site offers it in QuickTime and other flavors.
LW
The Stone Mountain Highland Games
Down in the comments to this post, Michele asks that I tell her what are the Stone Mountain Highland Games. I will answer that, and also talk a bit about Highland Games in General.
The Stone Mountain games are some of the largest in North America, if not the world. A few thousand people attend each year, and this year was the 32nd year of the games. Events are split between the Atlanta Marriott and Stone Mountain Park. At the hotel, they have a whisky tasting each year, along with the Sponsor’s Reception (formal), a dance and reception on Saturday night, and some of the piping competitions.
For most, however, the games are what goes on at the Park. In the past, they have done an outstanding Tattoo on Thursday night, featuring the pipe and drum bands playing solo and en masse. Alas, that has gone away, which is a pity as it was just about my favorite part of the games. The Park events start Saturday morning, and for those of us setting up Clan tents and such, it started at about 0600 or earlier each day.
I am not sure how many Clans took part, but believe that more than 100 were represented this year. In addition, various societies and institutions also have tents. This does not include the vendors, who sell food, drink, sweets, clothing, books, music and more.
Entertainment is varied. You have singers in various venues, sometimes bands or solo instruments in others, and dancing on stages for learning, entertainment, and competition. There is even a chapel tent where weddings and other services are held, and this year I was proud to be present as my cousin’s, Mr. C and Ms. C, renewed their vows on their 5th anniversary. Yes, they were married in that tent five years ago at the Games.
There is a full range of athletics taking place, from tossing the caber to the sheep sheaf toss. I’ve enjoyed watching the latter because if the athlete goofs, the sheaf goes up and comes down into the middle of the judges. Then again, they need their exercise too. These athletics are professional for the most part, though I heard a rumor that there was a Clan challenge this year. This is when the Clans send alleged amateurs (and not a few ringers) to compete in the events. We had a runner take part in the Kilted Mile and/or the cross country race, and she did fairly well. Me, I don’t run unless a DI or other bad guy is chasing me.
There are also crafts, and at least two weapons makers were in attendance this year. There is an opening ceremony on Saturday, a massed band event on Saturday, and a Parade of Tartan’s on Sunday where the Clans march onto the field. This year’s mass band feature more than 650 participants, making it the largest-ever pipe and drum event in North America according to the heralds. There are also sheep dog demonstrations, a small sort of petting zoo featuring Highland Cows and calves, sometimes with other animals as well.
Now, I am told by a number of people from Scotland, including some Clan Chiefs, that the Games here are very different. Here, they are a celebration of heritage, a chance to share heritage and culture with others, learn about aspects of same, and entertainment. The Games in Scotland are apparently much smaller and concentrate on athletics. Most of the Chief’s that come over here leave very enthused about our way of doing the Games.
For those that are curious, yes I have tossed the caber (did a perfect throw my first time) and done most or all of the rest. My preference, and where I have earned bronze and silver medals, is in the axe throw. Indeed, that was the de facto sport of my Clan (Donnachaidh, the Children of Duncan, better known as Robertson, Reid, and Duncan) for many years. Not sure a former president of the Society has ever forgiven me for giving his wife an axe with which to practice at home, since no matter where she aimed she did an Ed Ames every time. Pity about that…
That is a quick thumbnail for now. If anyone has questions, I will try to answer them as best I may. Stone is huge, and I admit my preference is for the smaller games in many respects. Yet and still, Stone is almost always fun, even if a lot of work.
LW
Frank Has Sold Out!
My world reels as I find out from Instapundit this morning that Frank has sold out. Go here to listen and learn.
LW
A Friend Indeed, In Need
Many have noted the absence of the Emperor of late, but now Misha opens up. Idiotarians hate him, but he has been a good friend to many of us -- rumor has it even to some of his critics, which speaks volumes. Trolls, go away. Those with souls, go offer some support. He has supported and encouraged many, public and private, so the least we can do is return the favor when as the foundations of his world shift around him.
LW
Carnival of the Recipes #10
Is up at Inside Allan's Mind. Lots of tasty treats this week, as usual, so go on over and check out all the entries.
LW
October 21, 2004
If A Food Establishment
Has to hire people to dress up in costumes and twirl signs out on the road everyday to lure in new customers, there usually is a reason for the lack of repeat customers. Think on it, and choose wisely.
LW
Carnival of the Recipes
Two dishes again this week, Asian-style chicken and Scotch Eggs, hope you enjoy.
Asian-style chicken
Hardware:
Grill or oven
Roasting pan if using oven
Aluminum foil
Cutting board
Knife
Ingredients:
Whole chicken
Fresh parsley, cilantro, ginger, thyme, rosemary, lemon grass, other herbs
Ponzu sauce (Oriental citrus sauce, med. bottle)
Kosher salt
Fresh ground pepper
Sesame oil
Olive Oil
Butter
Peel and slice ginger, and wash/clean herbs as needed. Herbs should be your choice, but be sure to include some Oriental herbs. Place chicken breast down on large sheet of aluminum foil and begin folding foil so that it will hold liquids. Coat chicken inside and out with olive oil or butter (or both better yet). Stuff herbs and 3/4 of the ginger inside the chicken. Pour Ponzu sauce into chicken, up to half the bottle. Pour a few tablespoons worth of sesame oil over chicken, place remaining ginger on top of/around chicken, and pour in more Ponzu sauce as well. Add some salt and pepper. Seal foil tight and grill over medium for several hours (or roast at 250 for a few hours) until an internal temp of app. 180 is reached. The slower the cooking, the better the result which should pretty much fall apart. Enjoy.
Scotch Eggs
Hardware:
Deep pot
Deep fryer or equivalent pan you would use to fry chicken or such
Deep bowl
3 medium bowls
Cutting board
Knife
Tongs or slotted spoon
Food service gloves
Ingredients:
Dozen fresh eggs
5 lbs sausage mixture
1/4 cup plain flour
Pancko or plain bread crumbs
2 eggs
Parsley
Chives
Other spices/options as desired
Hard boil a dozen eggs in the deep pot and allow to cool, heck get them very cool. Peel and dry the eggs, set aside. Fine chop 2-4 T parsley and 1-3 T chives. Place 2-3 packages of sausage into a deep bowl, then sprinkle herbs and any additional items (I put a pinch of cinnamon, 3 drops white truffle oil, and either smoked paprika or chipotle in at a minimum with store-bought sausage), then put remaining sausage over. Using gloves, mix well. Place flour in one medium bowl; whip the two eggs into an egg wash in another; and, place crumbs in remaining bowl. Bring oil up to temperature. Take a hardboiled egg, dust lightly with flour to be sure it is dry (do NOT get a thick coat of flour), and then coat it in .25- to .5-inch of sausage mixture all the way around. Dip in egg wash to coat, then dip in crumbs to coat. Deep fry the egg until golden brown. Those adamant against frying can bake, and with thicker sausage coats it is good to cook the eggs in an oven at 300 to ensure that the mixture is cooked through. To serve, cut long-ways into 1/4s and present with HP Sauce. Do not eat before visiting the doctor or getting a cholesterol screening.
Tips: I do about 4 eggs at a time (depends on fryer), and it can be a good idea to cool the sausage-coated eggs so that they retain shape better. A kinsman added sharp cheddar cheese to the mixture and it was quite tasty (would have been even better with some minced jalapeno in there). Remember to turn the eggs partway through cooking so as to cook evenly. Enjoy.
LW
Some Strong Food For Thought
Is waiting right here and you really need to read it. Now. Thanks to LGF for the hat tip.
LW
A Good Laugh For The Day
Is right here courtesy of that rat b*****d Blackfive who nearly made me send coffee out through my nose with this one. Work safe on images, but watch the laughter. He also deserves the name for this bumper sticker that I want right now!
LW
October 20, 2004
The Read For The Day
Is here, and comes courtesy of Michele. Short read, but well worth the read -- and I pretty much guarantee you won't see this in the Shady Lady or any other major Old Media outlet.
LW
October 19, 2004
Blogging And Old Media: A Good Read
Is right here from the co-founder of The Command Post. If you have any interest in media matters or the economics of the media, new or old, you really do need to read this.
LW
Farscape: Peacekeeper Wars
No spoilers, just a mini-ode to my geekiness. If you missed Farscape during its run on Sci-Fi, you truly missed some of the best writing, directing, production, and acting to grace the small screen. It often wasn’t cutting edge, it was sometimes delightfully bleeding edge, from turning the female warrior concept inside-out and rotating 90 degrees to giving a whole new meaning to tonguing. It was serious, it was funny, it was extremely well done, and it was killed by a bunch of REMFs that need to learn the meaning of unfriendly fire.
The Peacekeeper Wars is a wrap-up for the show courtesy of the Jim Henson group, that bought the show back along with their other stuff from the REMFs. From watching it, one gets the feeling that they tried to condense several seasons of shows down, so as to resolve things and give it a proper send-off. The movie is good, and it is vintage Farscape on many levels, but you can feel the rush, the compacting. I mourn what might have been had they been given the time to carry things on out. I rejoice in what was done and in the closure. Farscape has never been one to shy away from the costs of decisions, and I will say that more than one character dies, and we are not talking walk-ons here. Others live. Some die and live well, and others do not. There is complexity, there is pathos, there is joy, and there is reality in an unreal world.
Thank you to the Jim Henson Company and Hallmark for the send-off. Thank you to the actors, the writers, directors, producers, and crew in what was obviously a labor of love. I still mourn what might have been, but am reasonably content with what we got. I do wish the story did not have to end.
LW
October 18, 2004
What A Good Weekend
My weekend actually started on Thursday with a day of cooking over at my cousin’s house. Let’s just say that my next two entries in Carnival of the Recipes will feature chicken since I cooked three at once, along with several batches of almond shortbread, scotch eggs, and much more.
Friday saw my cousin Mr. C and myself up around 0500 to begin set-up for the Stone Mountain Highland Games. Some problems meant that instead of leaving to go up to Helen and the Georgia Bloggerfest at 11 am, I did not get on the road until 4 pm. I managed to make it up by 6 pm, and had a wonderful time meeting those there. The all too brief meeting was highlighted by a fun rendition of the Loch Tay Boat Song by Eric the Straight White Guy accompanied by Jim from Parkway Rest Stop who flew down from New Jersey to visit. After about 30 minutes, I had to jump back in Pups and drive back to Stone Mountain for some final preparations and some rest.
Saturday and Sunday were the games, and most of my time was spent at the tent dealing with either the diner
or helping people up front find out information on their heritage. Yes, that is more than two tents worth of food, and we do live up to our nickname The Donnachaidh Diner and I can tell you that the chaffing dishes are real and five were used to hold the shrimp primavera, Cajun shrimp scampi, meatballs in garlic pesto alfredo sauce, BBQ, and other delights. I failed to duck fast enough at the business meeting and found myself made regional commissioner for vice (that’s my story and I hope to stick to it) with my lone nay vote overridden by everyone else there voting yea. Both days involved early rising, lots of work before sunup, and Sunday concluded with tearing it all down and leaving. Lots to catch up on today, so posting will probably be lite.
LW
October 15, 2004
No Blogging Until Monday?
This weekend is the Stone Mountain Highland Games, and I will most likely be offline for them until Monday. Take care, be safe, and enjoy your weekend!
LW
Carnival Of The Recipes #8
This week’s entry is a bit more yet again, but it should be fun. All were field tested Thursday night at my cousin’s house.
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Hardware:
Cutting board
Knife
Zester
Aluminum foil
Grill or roasting pan and oven
Ingredients
Chicken, whole
4-5 bulbs of garlic
2-3 lemons
Kosher salt
Fresh ground pepper
Butter
Olive oil
Coarse peel the cloves in the bulbs of garlic and zest two of the lemons. Cut the lemons into slices.
Rub softened butter over and inside the chicken, season the inside with salt and pepper, then stuff as many cloves of garlic, along with a few slices of lemon, into the chicken. Season the exterior with salt and pepper (smoked sweet paprika was quite tasty as well), then cover with lemon zest, lemon slices, and garlic. Wrap and foil and place on the cool side of a grill and roast for a few hours until done and all the garlic cooked.
While you have the grill going, soak a few ears of corn in water for 30 minutes to 1 hour, then let the corn roast with the chicken on the grill. Do NOT remove any leaves, etc., soak it all as you get it and let it roast that way.
For dessert, Laughing Wolf Almond Shortbread:
Hardware:
Pastry or Cutting Board
Deep bowl
Fork
Knife
Backing sheet or baking stone
Oven, pre-heated to 300 degrees F
Spatula
Ingredients:
Good brand of pure almond extract
1 cup softened European-style butter
.5 to .9 cup confectioners sugar
2 cups all purpose flour
pinch kosher salt
1 egg yolk
1T heavy cream
sliced or slivered almonds, lightly toasted if you have the time
Put softened butter in bowl and gradually add confectioners sugar and cream with fork until fluffy. Add in almond extract to taste (1/8 t to 1 t), cream again. Gradually add in flour and salt until well blended. Then add in egg yolk and cream, and work until it forms a ball. Turn ball out onto lightly floured cutting board/pastry board and work into a rectangle .25- to .5-inches thick. Cut into rectangles (or cut rounds or whatever turns you on) and place on ungreased baking sheet about .5-inches apart. Bake until pale gold and firm to the touch. Use spatula to remove from sheet and allow to cool, if you can stand to keep your hands off of them.
Enjoy!
LW
Dream Job(s)
In talking with a wonderful friend the other day, I was reminded why they are a friend and how much alike we are. I made the comment to them that “the voices told me to lie on the questions about the voices” in regards a personality test, and their immediate reply was to the effect that “you should always lie about the voices.”
In discussions with that friend, some others, and even a former professor, I have been considering what makes an idea job. I thought I would share and ask you what makes a dream job for you.
For me, it is:
Fun challenge. Something that takes work, expands capabilities, encourages thought inside and outside the box (and even why the box is there), and makes me stretch a bit.
Team challenge. Something that brings together different talents and ideas to increase the synergy and opportunity for growth
Educational. I love to teach, and to learn. My ideal job is one where I can both teach by example (or even by class if needed), work with people, and learn from others.
Travel. I am a travel slut, and still love to go all over the world. So many places to explore and experiences to be had.
Does good. I like to work with things that help individuals, and larger groups where possible.
So, what is your dream job? What makes it such for you?
LW
October 14, 2004
Late Thought On John Edwards, Faith Healer
Let me guess: As a lawyer, he chased parked ambulances, didn't he?
LW
A Letter To Undecideds
My blogfather Joe Katzman has up a letter to undecided voters that they need to read. Actually, so does every voter.
LW
resisting snarky comments on the invasion post...
Art I Would Pay To See
Courtesy of Kathy, comes this story of art I would pay to see. Spew warning in effect, and if you are not allowed to laugh at work, not work safe.
LW
Some Thoughts On Merck, Drugs, and Medicine
I’ve been meaning to post on this for a while, but real life has intervened. Net result, this will not be quite as detailed and link-rich (just go read the last two weeks over at Galen's Log for goodposts on Merck and on the vaccine issue) as I would like, but will provide a good starting place for research and thought.
Yes, I am one of the ones effected by Vioxx and its recall. The extent to which I will be affected remains to be seen: it may be simply the loss of a drug that worked well on me. As for how I feel, the jury is out because there simply is not enough information yet available to form a reasonable opinion. There are claims made that Merck has long known of the heart problems, and there are equally compelling claims that they did not. The truly important point is, alas, getting lost in the finger pointing and the lining up of lawyers at the potential trough. The important point is that we had a drug in the first place.
I have lost count of the number of people I have met who appear to think that pharmaceutical companies dream up a drug, make a sample, take it to the FDA for easy approval, and then put it on the market. Depending on who you talk to, this is either straightforward or accompanied by bribes, hiding of bad results, and more. You pays your money and you take your distorted reality. Then there are others who feel that the problem lies in the big drug companies, that they are to blame. The fact is, under our current system, there would be no drugs without those big companies because the system demands them.
Yes, a small company can develop the idea for a new drug and even do all the research on it. Such can be done for a reasonable amount, provided you consider tens to hundreds of millions of dollars reasonable. Modern drugs are not made by random combinations of compounds or brews, or even trial and error, as has been the case in the past. Today, companies use combinatorial chemistry, structure-based drug design, and genetics to develop drugs that are targeted and effective. Drugs that affect the entire system are not desired, because of side effects. Instead, what the companies (and patients) want are drugs that target a specific site or area and only that area – with the result of very effective treatment with few or no side effects. We are still not there yet, but that is the direction research is pursuing.
Genomics, protein crystallography, and other delights take facilities, researchers, and even access to esoteric things such particle accelerators. Some of that is very reasonable in cost, others are quite expensive. To develop a new drug requires a good bit of R&D expenditure.
Let’s say that a small company does this. They have developed a new drug that will meet a need, have gotten the funding to do the R&D, spent the months/years required for this, and have developed it. Now, you have to go through the FDA approval process. According to published information, the FDA process takes 5-7 years and average costs that are reported as being $500-$800 million dollars. This is per drug people, and if part way through you develop an improved version of the drug, go back, do not pass go, and start all over again. Not many small companies can afford to do this, so it takes the resources of the big pharmaceutical corporations to pay for it; to deal with the massive amount of FDA paperwork that has to be filled out just so and filed just when and while hopping on the right foot; and, to cover against litigation.
Litigation will come, because the FDA and a gullible public tout risk-free medicine. One size fits all, no risk, and no consequences. When the inevitable happens and there is a bad reaction or a death, the lawyers will swarm and the shout will go out that “They should have known!” How they should have known is the mystery, and one that the lawyers and others who get rich off the process would not like you to solve, for doing so would expose the fallacy.
The fact is, there is no such thing as a risk-free drug. The FDA testing and approval process does weed out most of the obvious problems, but the samples are limited. They have to be to get through the process, and this is going to only get worse as the system tries harder to ensure zero-risk. This means that when the drug in question hits a larger sample of population, things are going to pop up. That is a statistical certainty upon which you can bank. You also need to factor in effects that will show up over time, for there are things that may not show up until you do a large sample over a 20-30 year time-frame. Will they be statistically significant? Hopefully not, but yet and still they will be there. Covering against them costs yet more money. I am not even going to go into production, marketing, delivery, and other things, for the point is made.
The net result is that you have to spend towards $1 billion per each variant of a major drug to get it to market. Some are going to cost more, and some may cost much less, but yet and still it is not pocket change. It is a massive undertaking of time and money.
Now, there is one more cost to factor in to the equation: the human cost. While the drugs are in development and then clinical trials, they are not available to those that need them most. There is a drug that may cure your significant other, keep them alive and enjoying life. What if they can’t get that drug, but are told that they must wait until all the hoops are jumped, paperwork filed, and as close to zero-risk to them is assured. There are people that face that every day. The government is not going to let them take it until procedures are complete, and the companies can’t afford to let them take it because even if they die from something else, it still is a negative impact on the drug and the drug studies. Even if it gives your SO months of living, the fact that your SO died can prevent the drug from reaching the market. All of the money put in by investors and the companies involved then goes down the toilet.
That, in a very rough and incomplete nutshell, is the system we have. That it works is nothing short of miraculous; that it could be better is beyond doubt. Just how it should work better is the question. There are those who argue that it should move even more to the zero-risk option, ignoring the fact that it will also effectively end pharmaceutical development in the United States. There are those who argue that there should be no approval process, also ignoring the fact that it would effectively destroy pharmaceutical development in the United States. What we need is an improved process that helps guarantee safety to a reasonable degree, and, more importantly, gives patients the option of taking risks. Imagine if you will, that there was a drug that could deal with a particular terminal illness and let you live (as opposed to existing). This drug, however, has some side effects or the potential for serious side effects later in life. Under current rules of approval, and more importantly the rules of litigation, you don’t have the option of taking it. I would like to have the option of working with my doctor to decide if I wanted to take it even knowing the side effects.
The keys to this are dealing with the litigation issues, the regulatory hurdles, and public education. It would demand both an informed user and an informed producer, but would the results not be worth it? Wouldn’t it be great if we could get the system so that more small companies (who provide the greatest amount of innovation and economic growth) could do this themselves, and have the chance to become big companies/corporations if they so desire? Wouldn’t it be great if we could get many more effective and safe drugs to market sooner, or to the patients who need them even as the process grinds on?
Also, as a final bit of food for thought, when you scream next time at the cost of drugs, take a breath and think instead. Look at the total cost of what went into that drug, and you may not scream as much. Think about the drugs that deal with diseases that are nasty, but few people have, and how much it costs to develop them. Then think a bit about how companies can make that money back (plus a bit for themselves), for they sure can’t do it by charging the real cost of the medicine to such a small group. Ever stop to think that the reason a “simple” drug used by so many costs so much might just be so that somebody somewhere with a rare disease can be treated, rather than it just being thievery on the part of the drug company?
The system isn’t perfect, nor any of the players. There is blame to go around, and praise too. For the miracle is that the system works at all.
LW
October 13, 2004
Problems
Broadband has been down more than up, dial-up not reliable, and I've been in meetings, hence the lack of posting. Hopefully all will get back to semi-normal soon. At least the broadband, please...
LW
October 12, 2004
A Suggestion For Radio Stations
Shut up and sing. Forget all of the endless, long, and pointless ads about how you break the rules, how cool you are (if you have to say it, you’re not), and all the great music that you play. Just play the flippin music.
LW
Some Food For Thought
Sgt Hook has the story on the elections in Afghanistan here and here, and a book he recommends here. Rand has the lowdown on some bad commercial space legislation here and some other bad science legislation here. Teresa has good ones here, here, and here. Meantime MommaBear and Kathy share some thoughts on Steyn and England. Also, I agree with Kevin that it should be a poster. Enjoy!
LW
October 11, 2004
Remembrance, And A Point Well Worth Remembering
It wasn't just here and it wasn't just 9-11. Go here and remember. This is war, not law enforcement or a police action.
LW
The Story On The Axe, And More
I promised the other day to tell more behind the story on the mini-rant and now is the time to do so. Last week was interesting on several levels. I lost out on some work I very much wanted, and am having to now aggressively pursue yet more work to make up for its loss. Add to that I got a message about some property I own in North Georgia. It seems that the last hurricane had indeed caused some damage, and had brought down an oak tree that had some other trees somewhat over the road. Now, the message was not real clear, so I went up to take a look for myself, and am glad I did. There were two trees hung up over the road, and some others that were problematic in future storms. I decided that at least one of the trees over the road and some of the problematic could be handled on the spot, so I went to the cabin I share with a relative to retrieve the axe.
I find the axe literally blunt, and covered with mud. I am less than amused as this was my axe before it was our axe. Dull axes take lots of work, and are a major danger as they will also bounce unpredictably. NOTE: flesh tears far more easily that wood. A good while later, using a file, I have the start of an edge on it and can deal with some of the trees. I do so, and even take down one of the danger trees over the road. I elect to come back and deal with the other with a chain saw. This was on Tuesday, and Wednesday I found out I did not get the work, so Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday were spent locating other opportunities. Sunday was the first day I could get back up there, and when I arrived, I found yet another tree from a neighbor’s property partly in the road.
I had rented a chain saw (my own being in storage in Huntsville), and proceeded to deal with things. I finally get to work on the last danger tree, and it proved interesting. I started near the stump-end, hoping to get it to kick back and down, and had cut a clear line of retreat for this. Instead of doing as hoped, the tree pivoted from where it was hung at the top, and became straighter. It did this twice more, leaving me with the very interesting job of trying to get it unhung and on down. A come-along did not budge it, so I had to start cutting notches about head high, while keeping an eye on the top. I finally cut through to a point where it was starting to give, then backed away and began pulling back and forth on the come-along line. That worked, and the tree ended up falling within inches of where I had planned to roll it (or pull with the come-along).
I decided that was a good way to end a very stressful week, and a good omen for this new week. Still less than amused about the axe, but happy with the current ultimate outcome.
LW
In Memoriam: Christopher Reeve
Actor/Director Christopher Reeve has returned to the light. His struggle against paralysis and for positive research has truly cast a large light into the world. I was fortunate enough to hear him speak at two BIO events, and he put a great deal of thought into his efforts and the ramifications of same. One of my strongest memories of him was his low-key arrival for one event, and of the effort it took for him to get out of the van and underway. Once out, he proceeded on in a determined way towards his objective and I think that sums up how he took on life. May the light shine on his family and friends, and guard and guide them in the days ahead.
LW
October 10, 2004
Sunday Wine Notes
My recent trip to Austria introduced me to a new variety of wine, Gruner Veltliner. It appears to be sort of the flagship wine of Austria, and shows a nice range of flavors and styles. It is a white, fairly dry wine, that goes well with a number of meals. It is dry enough that it can be used to cut through heavy flavors or even sweet in the mouth, yet is not so dry that it goes towards pucker factor. The flavors can range from floral to citrus to fruit and you will even find touches of sweet notes. Even the low-ends are well worth a try.
LW
October 09, 2004
Welcome To Food For Thought Saturday
Saturday at the Laughing Wolf is a day for good news and food for thought. This got started because of my Blogfather, Joe Katzman, and his good-news-only posts on Saturday. While we will post other news if it is needed, our hope is to keep Saturday’s a fun day, a philosophical day as much as we can. So, enjoy the food for thought, and while you are at it, go check out Sufi Wisdom at Winds of Change, food for thought at Who Tends The Fires, and the Saturday question of the day at Road Warrior Rules for Survival. Enjoy your day.
What Do You Risk
In Afghanistan, an historic event is underway. The people there are voting. They are literally risking their lives to do so, and know that they may suffer attacks, rapes, and more even if they keep their lives. Yet, a large number are taking this risk knowing full well the consequences.
What do you risk here? You might have to take some time off from work, or maybe even miss some time sitting on the couch and a bit of television. You might have to drive a little out of your way. Gee, what risk.
People have died and are going to die to exercise their right to vote. So, what will be your excuse for not voting this year?
LW
October 08, 2004
Moral & Ethical Question
Let's say that for the last year or two you have been getting e-mail for another individual. That person seems nice, and you even "talk" with them a bit, yet their friends and comrades still -- despite nice notes and even some not nice notes -- continue to send you mail intended for the other person. Suppose they send you their plan to promote a certain candidate for President, one you loathe. Are you legally, morally, ethically, or otherwise obligated to keep confidential the material they sent?
Discuss!
LW
Blackfive (And Others) Outed
The dirty deed is done, and you can read the sordid tale here. As for me, I say that number four is the lie.
LW
Bigley Killed Trying To Escape?
There are conflicting reports out about the possible death of hostage Kenneth Bigley. Backcountry Conservative has details, as does the Good Dr. Shackleford. Stay tuned.
LW
UPDATE: Al-Reuters reports there is a video. Given the source, I would prefer confirmation. Hat Tip to Rooftop Report.
Beslan Update
Stan at Logic & Sanity has the latest. Keep checking this site, as there is lots of good food for thought there.
LW
Carnival Of The Recipes
This is going to be a bit different, since it is an entire meal and one just done Thursday night for my cousins.
UPDATE: The Carnival is up at Fresh as a Daisy! Lots of tasty stuff there, so go check it out.
howl on, brother! »October 07, 2004
A Must Read, And Then Re-Read
No posting from me, but why spend time here when Bill Whittle has Deterrence Pt. 1 and Deterrence Pt. 2 posted and ready for you. Why are you still here?
LW
October 06, 2004
Minor Rant
If you don't know how to care for an axe, either don't use it or read up in a scout manual or such. Dull axes not only take more energy, but are more dangerous because they bounce. Notches in the edge are not "cool." Anyone who uses an axe in the mud and puts it up dull and covered with mud deserves to be flogged.
LW
considering the purchase of a new flogger...
Rathergate: The Ultimate Stonewall
One wonders why CBS is suddenly so concerned about influencing an election, so much so that they will delay their report on Rathergate until after said election. If they had been this concerned before, they might not be having to deal with an investigation and report...
LW
Lite Day
Other work calls, so posting today will be lite. Go visit the many fine blogs down there on the right, and sample other good food for thought.
LW
In Memoriam: Rodney Dangerfield
He earned the respect of millions, and paid back by nurturing and helping newer comics. He has passed and may the light shine on his family in the days ahead, and memories of his laughter lighten their load.
LW
October 05, 2004
Only My Blogfather Could
And would use a Jackie Chan movie to hit the nail on the head like this. Go read it now.
LW
Pengate
It really doesn't matter if it was a pen or not. It was done, and it was done without thinking or apology. It is the penultimate testament to his lack of character: the rules don't apply because I am John F'ing Kerry. Charles and Tammi sum it up for me. Character counts.
LW
Want To Know Why Make A Wish Isn't Here?
There is a reason I don't have Make A Wish in the Good Works Section. Michelle Malkin sums up why. A dying child's wishes are not bound by some adult's neuroses/psychoses.
LW
No More Long John Silver's
Go read this story in which a manager who had valid fears for his life and the lives of his employees was fired. Essentially, he was fired for not letting the perps kill them all during a robbery. Story courtesy of Spoons. I can guarantee you that I have no plans to ever eat at any of their restaurants ever again.
LW
In Memoriam: Gordon Cooper
Irony abounds in life, and in death. Gordon Cooper, one of the original Mercury Seven, passed into the light the day the X-Prize was won. He was a character, and a pioneer who left a number of legacies. Somehow, I suspect he is laughing his rear end off at the timing of his death. He will be missed. May the light shine on his family in the days ahead.
LW
October 04, 2004
Happy Birthday Mama Prieto!
May your day be bright with joy and your new year filled with all manner of good things! Get over to Babalu Blog and join in wishing a Very Happy Birthday to a special lady.
LW
Carnival Of The Recipes
Being on the road, I missed getting to post Carnival of the Recipes #7. It is well worth checking out, and my thanks to another lupine, Food Basics.
LW
Mount St. Helen's Eruption
For "local" coverage and some good live-blogging, check out The Forest For The Trees, whom I found courtesy of the good Dr. Shackleford. No real eruption yet, but...
LW
Kerry Debate Cheat Betting Pool
I will not weigh in on the issue, others are pointing out the issue far better. No, what I want to do is start a pool on how long it is before Kerry blames it on an underling. Bets anyone?
LW
SpaceshipOne Coverage
0948 hours Eastern: We have liftoff of the tandem unit from the runway. Looked smooth, nice. More later, will try my best to live-blog as it happens.
1005 hours: flipping through the coverage, not impressed by a lot of it. The lack of specialist coverage at the broadcast outlets is outstanding, and not in a good way. The only broadcast outlet with any such in evidence is CNN and Miles O'Brien, who is very knowledgeable on space and somewhat on aviation. Gone are the days when the Old Media three had people like the late, great Jules Begman. Lot of concern over the "new" pilot (more on him here), but Scaled has said all along they planned to use multiple and planned to do so last time, but had to switch because the planned pilot was not 100 percent.
1046 hours: Much as I don't care for the Communist News Network, they do have the best coverage on broadcast. Miles is a good science reporter, and quite the space enthusiast, and it makes a heck of a difference in their coverage. Stewart, in this post has it right.
1048 hours: Separation. Clean release, burn start looks good. Stable. No roll so far. Very stable in comparison with first two flights. Not much yaw either. some shaking reported. Very nice so far. Rocket shutoff. Coast underway. Very, very clean flight so far, remarkably stable. Still coasting up, configured for re-entry. Taking pictures onboard according to radio.
1054 hours: Re-entry underway. All still smooth.
1057 hours: Smoothest flight so far by my eye. Re-entry looks very good, very stable.
1103 hours: Confirmation of Mission Accomplished! Altitude is confirmed and Scaled has indeed won the X-Prize. Chase planes report the craft looks good and things proceeding smoothly for landing.
1105 hours: Well, they will win if he lands intact. My bad for misspeaking.
1107 hours: Low-chase planes have picked him up. Alll continues to look good. It will be interesting to learn how much of this is the result of system tweaks and how much from pilot tweaks based on lessons learned from the previous flights. Net result is a flight that looked very good.
1112 hours: Gear down. Final. Smooth landing. Damn that was smooth, not even a bump as he came on in. They have now indeed won the prize. And we and our children will reap the rewards.
Rand, as usual, has some good coverage and insights.
1117 hours: Chase planes finish(?) victory rolls.
Warrior Thoughts On "CiC" Kerry
As usual, Citizen Smash has some good food for thought on part of the debate.
LW
Italian (and Japanese) Hostages: A Different Take
Is found here, and I found it through this site which had previously voiced doubts. It is indeed some food for thought.
LW
October 03, 2004
Yet More Time
Have taken my note of yesterday to heart, so don't expect anything else today. Instead, allow me to recommend that you go look at some wonderful pictures at Cascade Exposures.
October 02, 2004
Welcome To Food For Thought Saturday
Saturday at the Laughing Wolf is a day for good news and food for thought. This got started because of my Blogfather, Joe Katzman, and his good-news-only posts on Saturday. While we will post other news if it is needed, our hope is to keep Saturday’s a fun day, a philosophical day as much as we can. So, enjoy the food for thought, and while you are at it, go check out Sufi Wisdom at Winds of Change, food for thought at Who Tends The Fires, and the Saturday question of the day at Road Warrior Rules for Survival. Enjoy your day.
LW