‘I just hope they do a good job’: Simple, solid explanation about the rise of Italian-Americans as a political force in Boston and the state. Still think it will be short-lived, relatively speaking: A.) Intermarriage and suburban migration will continue to dilute the coherency and clout of the ‘old’ ethnics (i.e. those who came in the late 1800s and early 1900s, Irish and Italians) B.) the ‘new’ ethnics are about to flex their muscles. C.) Ethnicity itself has become less important. ... Put another way: Does anyone really expect the North End to be predominantly Italian within 10 or 20 years? Is it now? ... The rise of professionals fit in there somewhere.



“ ‘A crack’ at being a success”: Feeling a tad bit better about Iraq after reading this David Brooks column. A tad bit, mind you. They’re aware of the problems. They’re keeping options open. ... Rumsfeld has been sending disturbing hints, though, about Iraq’s future, from partial elections to ‘a crack’ of a chance. Tamping down expectations or dealing with a reality not openly admitted yet?   ¶ 8:21 AM