Wednesday, January 31, 2007
'Coyote backlash,' Part II
One step closer to our fondest collective hope to have wild wolves prancing through our suburban yards: 'Wolf dogs' in New Hampshire. ... Nice wolf. Nice wolf. ... Loved this description:
Can't wait for the real born-free things to be roaming the Northeast at will. ...
One step closer to our fondest collective hope to have wild wolves prancing through our suburban yards: 'Wolf dogs' in New Hampshire. ... Nice wolf. Nice wolf. ... Loved this description:
The wolf dog mixes have growing appeal as exotic pets, but they are extremely difficult to keep, particularly when they reach adulthood. They require large, enclosed spaces outdoors and prefer to live in a pack.
Can't wait for the real born-free things to be roaming the Northeast at will. ...
'Entirely inauthentic,' Part II
Not exactly profiles in courage among Congressional Republicans. ... Sen. Olympia J. Snowe: 'This isn't about party loyalty. This isn't about presidential politics. It's about policy.' Or pre-2008 'every man for himself' policy-making? ... I had an interesting email exchange with someone yesterday. I'm backing off a bit from my Mickey-sponsored Chuck Hagel bashing. Sufficient evidence is out there that he's been somewhat consisent in criticizing the war, though I'm not overly impressed with the argument he's displayed 'courage.' ... FYI: I'm not coming at this from the they're-abandoning-the-president angle. I'm coming at it from the they-should-have-criticized-him-earlier angle -- i.e., when criticism might have made a difference. ...
Update -- Charles writes in: "Okay, now I'm intrigued. 'I'm coming at it from the they-should-have-criticized-him-earlier angle -- i.e., when criticism might have made a difference.' You actually think there was a point where the President might have listened to dissenting voices about his Iraq strategy once the war started? You're far more generous than I am. Next stop Iran!"
My response: Actually, I think the administration might have changed. Bullies back down when confronted. Bush and Rove were confronted in Nov. 2006, after which they dumped Rummy and his awful Iraq policies. The administration might have behaved differently, and earlier, had more political heat been applied when it counted.
Not exactly profiles in courage among Congressional Republicans. ... Sen. Olympia J. Snowe: 'This isn't about party loyalty. This isn't about presidential politics. It's about policy.' Or pre-2008 'every man for himself' policy-making? ... I had an interesting email exchange with someone yesterday. I'm backing off a bit from my Mickey-sponsored Chuck Hagel bashing. Sufficient evidence is out there that he's been somewhat consisent in criticizing the war, though I'm not overly impressed with the argument he's displayed 'courage.' ... FYI: I'm not coming at this from the they're-abandoning-the-president angle. I'm coming at it from the they-should-have-criticized-him-earlier angle -- i.e., when criticism might have made a difference. ...
Update -- Charles writes in: "Okay, now I'm intrigued. 'I'm coming at it from the they-should-have-criticized-him-earlier angle -- i.e., when criticism might have made a difference.' You actually think there was a point where the President might have listened to dissenting voices about his Iraq strategy once the war started? You're far more generous than I am. Next stop Iran!"
My response: Actually, I think the administration might have changed. Bullies back down when confronted. Bush and Rove were confronted in Nov. 2006, after which they dumped Rummy and his awful Iraq policies. The administration might have behaved differently, and earlier, had more political heat been applied when it counted.
Tuesday, January 30, 2007
'Coyote backlash'
Jon suggests a 'coyote backlash' may be developing. Jon, Jon, Jon. We want to move in the exact opposite direction. My all-time favorite press release: We want wolves! ... I think about it all the time: 'Gee, wouldn't it be great if we had gray wolves in our backyards?' ... An update on the We Want Wolves campaign. It may take a little more 'significant educational efforts' before reintroduction occurs. ...
Jon suggests a 'coyote backlash' may be developing. Jon, Jon, Jon. We want to move in the exact opposite direction. My all-time favorite press release: We want wolves! ... I think about it all the time: 'Gee, wouldn't it be great if we had gray wolves in our backyards?' ... An update on the We Want Wolves campaign. It may take a little more 'significant educational efforts' before reintroduction occurs. ...
'Entirely inauthentic'
Mickey dismantles Chuck Hagel. ... Next! ... How many presidential candidates are out there?
Mickey dismantles Chuck Hagel. ... Next! ... How many presidential candidates are out there?
Monday, January 29, 2007
Father Drinan, RIP
He was truly a scholar and a gentleman, one who you could disagree with but still look up to with great fondness, respect and appreciation. ...
He was truly a scholar and a gentleman, one who you could disagree with but still look up to with great fondness, respect and appreciation. ...
Sunday, January 28, 2007
'That's a quid pro quo?'
How to advance your agenda: Bribe 'em. ... And up in dear old Lynn. ...
Update - 01.29.07 -- Jon: 'Gov. Patrick - say it isn't so.'
How to advance your agenda: Bribe 'em. ... And up in dear old Lynn. ...
Update - 01.29.07 -- Jon: 'Gov. Patrick - say it isn't so.'
The many voices of Obama
Headline No. 1: 'In Law School, Obama Found Political Voice.' Headline No. 2: 'At Harvard Law, a unifying voice.' ... Do you think we'd be reading about Obama's law-school voices if he had gone to Suffolk or BC? ... I one time broke up a playground fight. I'm just stating it for the record. ...
Update -- Dr. Evil makes his case: "My father was a relentlessly self-improving boulangerie owner from Belgium with low grade narcolepsy and a penchant for buggery. My mother was a 15-year-old French prostitute named Chloe with webbed feet. ..."
Headline No. 1: 'In Law School, Obama Found Political Voice.' Headline No. 2: 'At Harvard Law, a unifying voice.' ... Do you think we'd be reading about Obama's law-school voices if he had gone to Suffolk or BC? ... I one time broke up a playground fight. I'm just stating it for the record. ...
Update -- Dr. Evil makes his case: "My father was a relentlessly self-improving boulangerie owner from Belgium with low grade narcolepsy and a penchant for buggery. My mother was a 15-year-old French prostitute named Chloe with webbed feet. ..."
'If you knew what we know ...'
Dan flags a good op-ed piece by Gary Wills on the militarization of the presidency. All recent presidents and presidential candidates have played up their warrior credentials. But this adminitration has taken it to new heights. Sadly, some in the media have assisted in the glorification. Bob Woodward's 'Plan of Attack' and 'Bush at War' come across as versions of Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan novels ('Debt of Honor') -- and, with publication of 'State of Denial,' they're rendered to the dustbin of fiction like Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan novels. ... A fascinating, though at times infuriating, look at the current administration can be found in Kevin Phillips' 'American Dynaty,' which delves deeply into the military-industrial-complex background of the Bush family. ...
Dan flags a good op-ed piece by Gary Wills on the militarization of the presidency. All recent presidents and presidential candidates have played up their warrior credentials. But this adminitration has taken it to new heights. Sadly, some in the media have assisted in the glorification. Bob Woodward's 'Plan of Attack' and 'Bush at War' come across as versions of Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan novels ('Debt of Honor') -- and, with publication of 'State of Denial,' they're rendered to the dustbin of fiction like Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan novels. ... A fascinating, though at times infuriating, look at the current administration can be found in Kevin Phillips' 'American Dynaty,' which delves deeply into the military-industrial-complex background of the Bush family. ...
Saturday, January 27, 2007
'Pasternak's novel is a malicious libel'
The CIA may have helped Boris Pasternak, author of 'Doctor Zhivago,' win the Nobel Prize. ... Pasternak would have won it anyway. But the Cold War intrigue makes it more fun. The dolts at the Swedish Academy wouldn't give out the award due to a technicality. And so ... presto! Problem solved. ... Ah, for the days when the CIA could actually get things right now and then. ...
The CIA may have helped Boris Pasternak, author of 'Doctor Zhivago,' win the Nobel Prize. ... Pasternak would have won it anyway. But the Cold War intrigue makes it more fun. The dolts at the Swedish Academy wouldn't give out the award due to a technicality. And so ... presto! Problem solved. ... Ah, for the days when the CIA could actually get things right now and then. ...
'Just like you to try and change the subject, Callaghan'
Marty and Bill go at it over J.D. Drew and end up arguing over Hilary and Obama. ... Meanwhile, Susan contemplates Nancy Pelosi's achievement compared to what Janet Marie Smith has accomplished at Fenway. ... Too much. He's making the post-Pats/pre-Sox lull too enjoyable. If they can move up the dates of presidential primaries, they can move up the date of spring training. No later than two weeks after the Pats finish a season. Simple. ...
Marty and Bill go at it over J.D. Drew and end up arguing over Hilary and Obama. ... Meanwhile, Susan contemplates Nancy Pelosi's achievement compared to what Janet Marie Smith has accomplished at Fenway. ... Too much. He's making the post-Pats/pre-Sox lull too enjoyable. If they can move up the dates of presidential primaries, they can move up the date of spring training. No later than two weeks after the Pats finish a season. Simple. ...
'The famed and fabled Flux Capacitor!'
Saw Carpundit's post on DeLorean auto parts and, like a dope, I actually entered 'flux capacitor' into the site's search function. Nothing. Refusing to accept reality, I then googled 'flux capacitor' and came up with this site. And it comes with a guarantee:
After I finish selling off City Hall, I'm ordering one.
Saw Carpundit's post on DeLorean auto parts and, like a dope, I actually entered 'flux capacitor' into the site's search function. Nothing. Refusing to accept reality, I then googled 'flux capacitor' and came up with this site. And it comes with a guarantee:
Special return policy: If you are not 100% satisfied, you may return this product for a full refund, in no LESS than 30 days before you purchase it!
After I finish selling off City Hall, I'm ordering one.
'A traditional antiwar protest'? Part II
Looks like the non-traditional antiwar protest is going back to its traditionalist antiwar protest roots: Jane Fonda is going to appear at today's rally. She'll be joining Danny Glover, Susan Sarandon, Tim Robbins and Tom Hayden. Hey, I tried to be open-minded about the protest possibly going 'mainstream.' But I should have known better. ... I still take some delight in imagining Dick Cheney looking out a White House window and growling at the sight of his '60s nemeses. He's about to go 0 for 2 in his lifetime battles with them. ...
Update -- John suggests bringing in Peter, Paul and Mary. ...
Update II - 1.28.07 -- The protest was largely a dud -- and the coverage was typical. You see, it's OK to mention the political leanings of the 'conservative' counter-protesters. But the obvious political leanings of the protesters are never mentioned. They just come from 'across the activist spectrum.' ... Oddly, I find myself leaning more toward the anti-war view of protesters at this point, if I had to choose simplistic sides. After all, they were ultimately right, albeit for all the wrong reasons, sort of like stopped clocks. ...
Update III -- Someone else is leaning in an odd direction. ....
Looks like the non-traditional antiwar protest is going back to its traditionalist antiwar protest roots: Jane Fonda is going to appear at today's rally. She'll be joining Danny Glover, Susan Sarandon, Tim Robbins and Tom Hayden. Hey, I tried to be open-minded about the protest possibly going 'mainstream.' But I should have known better. ... I still take some delight in imagining Dick Cheney looking out a White House window and growling at the sight of his '60s nemeses. He's about to go 0 for 2 in his lifetime battles with them. ...
Update -- John suggests bringing in Peter, Paul and Mary. ...
Update II - 1.28.07 -- The protest was largely a dud -- and the coverage was typical. You see, it's OK to mention the political leanings of the 'conservative' counter-protesters. But the obvious political leanings of the protesters are never mentioned. They just come from 'across the activist spectrum.' ... Oddly, I find myself leaning more toward the anti-war view of protesters at this point, if I had to choose simplistic sides. After all, they were ultimately right, albeit for all the wrong reasons, sort of like stopped clocks. ...
Update III -- Someone else is leaning in an odd direction. ....
Friday, January 26, 2007
'Anybody who thinks Kerry is beatable ...'
Howie is wondering what Republicans are smoking with all their big talk of beating Kerry next year. ... And, no, Curt is not a savior. ...
Howie is wondering what Republicans are smoking with all their big talk of beating Kerry next year. ... And, no, Curt is not a savior. ...
'A traditional antiwar protest'?
What's a 'traditional antiwar protest'? I know what they mean. But it's still a kind of funny way to refer to past rallies organized by the usual lefty suspects. ... Glad to see organizers of this weekend's planned Washington rally are trying to make it non-traditional, for lack of other words, i.e. they're giving the boot to 'far left' activists. Not that the media ever identified those 'far left' leanings at past rallies, covering protests without giving a hint that they might have been organized by 'far left' types like ANSWER. ...
... With all the justified cynicism aside, I'm kind of rooting that the weekend rally indeed sends a message to the administration and Congress: This war has been grossly mismanaged and time is running out. That may not be the message of some, or most, protesters. But it's the centrist message I'd like to see conveyed. The Bush administration shunned, denounced and dismissed advice from moderates in the run-up to the Iraq war. Now they're dealing with a mess of their own making. The supreme irony is that Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld, both holdovers from the Nixon-Ford era, were bitterly determined to show they could run a non-Vietnam-like war. Now they have a growing Vietnam-like opposition because they didn't anticipate a Vietnam-like war, i.e. an insurgency, mixed with murderous civil strife. ... In advance, I'd like to distance myself from the anti-Israel, Bush is Hitler types who will inevitably show up this weekend to get their protest merit badges. But hopefully their numbers will be small. The real 'traditional' protesters are organizing their own separate rally for March 17. Maybe the national media, for a change, will note their 'far left' leanings instead of just calling them 'peace activists.' ...
What's a 'traditional antiwar protest'? I know what they mean. But it's still a kind of funny way to refer to past rallies organized by the usual lefty suspects. ... Glad to see organizers of this weekend's planned Washington rally are trying to make it non-traditional, for lack of other words, i.e. they're giving the boot to 'far left' activists. Not that the media ever identified those 'far left' leanings at past rallies, covering protests without giving a hint that they might have been organized by 'far left' types like ANSWER. ...
... With all the justified cynicism aside, I'm kind of rooting that the weekend rally indeed sends a message to the administration and Congress: This war has been grossly mismanaged and time is running out. That may not be the message of some, or most, protesters. But it's the centrist message I'd like to see conveyed. The Bush administration shunned, denounced and dismissed advice from moderates in the run-up to the Iraq war. Now they're dealing with a mess of their own making. The supreme irony is that Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld, both holdovers from the Nixon-Ford era, were bitterly determined to show they could run a non-Vietnam-like war. Now they have a growing Vietnam-like opposition because they didn't anticipate a Vietnam-like war, i.e. an insurgency, mixed with murderous civil strife. ... In advance, I'd like to distance myself from the anti-Israel, Bush is Hitler types who will inevitably show up this weekend to get their protest merit badges. But hopefully their numbers will be small. The real 'traditional' protesters are organizing their own separate rally for March 17. Maybe the national media, for a change, will note their 'far left' leanings instead of just calling them 'peace activists.' ...
Thursday, January 25, 2007
'It's so bad, it's good'
John unloads on Mike, Dan and Hank. The 'so bad' part I understand. I'm not sure about the 'good' part. ... The trio truly date themselves when they start talking about restaurants from the good old days. Last week's big topic was Jimmy's etc. Of course there's also the constant references to 'our old friend' and Tip O'Neill blah, blah, blah. ...
John unloads on Mike, Dan and Hank. The 'so bad' part I understand. I'm not sure about the 'good' part. ... The trio truly date themselves when they start talking about restaurants from the good old days. Last week's big topic was Jimmy's etc. Of course there's also the constant references to 'our old friend' and Tip O'Neill blah, blah, blah. ...
'When it's the nadir of the offseason ...'
What information-starved fans talk about in between the Pats and Sox seasons. ... Poor Celts and Bruins. Not even a mention. ...
What information-starved fans talk about in between the Pats and Sox seasons. ... Poor Celts and Bruins. Not even a mention. ...
'Bold, conclusive disasters'
Mickey finds that the Iraq war and comprehensive immigration reform have a lot in common. Read it. It's brilliant. ... I wandered over to Mickey's hoping he'd have something to say about John Kerry not running for president. Alas, nothing. Maybe later this week. ... P.S. - Kerry's 'this isn't the time' remark made me wonder: Is a 2012 run possible? The math and logic don't support it. Kerry is now 64. He'd be 69 in 2012 -- and any run would depend on whether a Democrat wins in '08. So, no, he won't run again. But he's John Kerry. I'm not ruling out that he's not completely ruled it out. P.S.P.S. -- Republicans are deluding themselves if they think they can beat Kerry next year. There is no Bill Weld-like challenger on the horizon. Kerry could conceivably face opposition in a Dem primiary if an anti-war moonbat candidate emerges. But I doubt that will happen. ...
Mickey finds that the Iraq war and comprehensive immigration reform have a lot in common. Read it. It's brilliant. ... I wandered over to Mickey's hoping he'd have something to say about John Kerry not running for president. Alas, nothing. Maybe later this week. ... P.S. - Kerry's 'this isn't the time' remark made me wonder: Is a 2012 run possible? The math and logic don't support it. Kerry is now 64. He'd be 69 in 2012 -- and any run would depend on whether a Democrat wins in '08. So, no, he won't run again. But he's John Kerry. I'm not ruling out that he's not completely ruled it out. P.S.P.S. -- Republicans are deluding themselves if they think they can beat Kerry next year. There is no Bill Weld-like challenger on the horizon. Kerry could conceivably face opposition in a Dem primiary if an anti-war moonbat candidate emerges. But I doubt that will happen. ...
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
They choked, Part II
Many people disagree that the Pats choked. I maintain they did. But I think we can agree on this: The Pats were overachievers this year. I never thought they'd get as far as they did -- and play as well as they did, minus the second-half collapse on Sunday. It was a great season. ...
Many people disagree that the Pats choked. I maintain they did. But I think we can agree on this: The Pats were overachievers this year. I never thought they'd get as far as they did -- and play as well as they did, minus the second-half collapse on Sunday. It was a great season. ...
Monday, January 22, 2007
They choked
Sorry, it may have been a great game and one for the ages. But the Pats choked yesterday. What else can you call blowing a huge lead, dropping key passes, committing stupid penalties? If the Colts had done that, we'd be calling it a choke. ... Reche Caldwell: Quietly leave New England via T.F. Green. Avoid Logan at all costs. Don't hang around trying to explain. Bill and Tom will understand the stealth departure. ...
Update -- Soxaholix: 'They choked on jello.' ...
Sorry, it may have been a great game and one for the ages. But the Pats choked yesterday. What else can you call blowing a huge lead, dropping key passes, committing stupid penalties? If the Colts had done that, we'd be calling it a choke. ... Reche Caldwell: Quietly leave New England via T.F. Green. Avoid Logan at all costs. Don't hang around trying to explain. Bill and Tom will understand the stealth departure. ...
Update -- Soxaholix: 'They choked on jello.' ...
Saturday, January 20, 2007
Stuns and stunned
As a Lincoln-Sudbury grad, I guess I'm inevitably monitoring the tragic killing at L-S a little more closely than the average reader. I don't have any special insights into the incident due to my distant connection. But I have to say I'm not 'stunned' by the incident. Nor does it 'stun' me as a person who still spends a lot of time in Sudbury. Sadly, the incident merely confirms that modern schools -- both suburban and urban -- seem so vulnerable these days to Columbine-like violence. The entire situation is sad -- a far better word than stunned or stuns. ... Obviously, my heart goes out to both families, especially the Alensons. ...
As a Lincoln-Sudbury grad, I guess I'm inevitably monitoring the tragic killing at L-S a little more closely than the average reader. I don't have any special insights into the incident due to my distant connection. But I have to say I'm not 'stunned' by the incident. Nor does it 'stun' me as a person who still spends a lot of time in Sudbury. Sadly, the incident merely confirms that modern schools -- both suburban and urban -- seem so vulnerable these days to Columbine-like violence. The entire situation is sad -- a far better word than stunned or stuns. ... Obviously, my heart goes out to both families, especially the Alensons. ...
'Emotional and political make-up call'
Mickey Kaus made an observation the other day that I can't shake from my mind, to wit: "(P)olitics seems to often dictate surge-bashing as a sort of emotional and political make-up call for failure to oppose the decision to go to war in the first place." ... Seems so true: the more vehement a pro-war stance, the more vehement the opposition to a surge, though I still can't figure out Mickey's own stance on the war. ... I'm highly skeptical of the current surge. In fact, I'm not convinced it's really designed to accomplish anything on the ground. But at least they're putting the right people in place and finally talking and behaving as if Iraq isn't a 'flypaper' trap. Remember that awful 2003 rationalization for a bad predicament, policies and strategy? My main concern about a 'surge' was that it would be used by this incompetent administration to implement yet more bad policies in support of a bad strategy. That doesn't seem to be the case now. Not that I think it will work at this point. Bottom line: I can't get worked up either way about the surge. ... Recall Armchair Gen. Savin Hill's 2005 lament: 'Did NO ONE in the Pentagon watch Lawrence of Arabia?'
Mickey Kaus made an observation the other day that I can't shake from my mind, to wit: "(P)olitics seems to often dictate surge-bashing as a sort of emotional and political make-up call for failure to oppose the decision to go to war in the first place." ... Seems so true: the more vehement a pro-war stance, the more vehement the opposition to a surge, though I still can't figure out Mickey's own stance on the war. ... I'm highly skeptical of the current surge. In fact, I'm not convinced it's really designed to accomplish anything on the ground. But at least they're putting the right people in place and finally talking and behaving as if Iraq isn't a 'flypaper' trap. Remember that awful 2003 rationalization for a bad predicament, policies and strategy? My main concern about a 'surge' was that it would be used by this incompetent administration to implement yet more bad policies in support of a bad strategy. That doesn't seem to be the case now. Not that I think it will work at this point. Bottom line: I can't get worked up either way about the surge. ... Recall Armchair Gen. Savin Hill's 2005 lament: 'Did NO ONE in the Pentagon watch Lawrence of Arabia?'
Thursday, January 18, 2007
'Disbelieving Spock'
James Lileks' eyebrows assume the politically-incorrect 'Disbelieving Spock' position while reading the much talked about NYT piece on women increasingly living without husbands. He also ponders other 'Things Smart People Know To Be So.' ... Margery tackles the same issue, coming from a different angle. ... Counting 15-year-olds in the data? Hmmm. OK. But putting aside the stats, it's the self-important tone of the piece that grates. ...
James Lileks' eyebrows assume the politically-incorrect 'Disbelieving Spock' position while reading the much talked about NYT piece on women increasingly living without husbands. He also ponders other 'Things Smart People Know To Be So.' ... Margery tackles the same issue, coming from a different angle. ... Counting 15-year-olds in the data? Hmmm. OK. But putting aside the stats, it's the self-important tone of the piece that grates. ...
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
'Winnable'
I hope they are right. We'll see. It shouldn't have come down to this last desperate scenario, after four long years of blunders and denials. ...
Update -- Seems Michael Yon didn't say 'winnable.' All the more reason to regret what might have been done to avoid the situation we're in now. ...
I hope they are right. We'll see. It shouldn't have come down to this last desperate scenario, after four long years of blunders and denials. ...
Update -- Seems Michael Yon didn't say 'winnable.' All the more reason to regret what might have been done to avoid the situation we're in now. ...
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
France rediscovers Disney
The French have a new appreciation for Walt Disney, partly by redefining him as their own, though they still have it wrong on Jerry Lewis. Nice article. ...
P.S. -- The origin of the Disney name may have had an influence. The same for Lewis. ...
Update -- Armchair Gen. Saving Hill writes in about other changes in France:
Update II -- The French were proposing a union with the UK in the 1950s? Via AS.
Update III -- Just read the WSJ op-ed (not an editorial) linked above in the first Update. I distinctly remember Chirac pulling the same thing when he was mayor of Paris, running for president, praising America, winning tributes from American conservatives ... and look how he turned out. Just a cautionary note.
The French have a new appreciation for Walt Disney, partly by redefining him as their own, though they still have it wrong on Jerry Lewis. Nice article. ...
P.S. -- The origin of the Disney name may have had an influence. The same for Lewis. ...
Update -- Armchair Gen. Saving Hill writes in about other changes in France:
Saw the article on CSM on Disney exhibit. Of note, also, the editorial in WSJ (sub. req.) about the 2 French presidential candidates. Chirac's party's candidate (Nicolas Sarkozy) is outwardly pro-American, or in a more acceptably Gaullist phrase, anti- anti-Americanism. Predictably his enemies refer to him as "l'Americain". The socialist candidate is notably "agnostic" on anti-Americanism and in debates has taken a very hard line against Iran, and even going so far as to say the new government of Iraq deserves France's support (mon dieu!).
While not a sea-change, it would be nice for reflexive anti-Americanism to be questioned in France -- at least by its absence -- in an election. The last German parliamentary election, likewise, may not have been a referendum on anti-Americanism, but certainly the theme was simmering under the surface - and the current Chancellor (Merkel) most notably has built a career on rubbing German anti-Americans the wrong way - and, predictably - been tagged as an American lackey.
Now if we can just convince them all that Jerry Lewis isn't funny.
Update II -- The French were proposing a union with the UK in the 1950s? Via AS.
Update III -- Just read the WSJ op-ed (not an editorial) linked above in the first Update. I distinctly remember Chirac pulling the same thing when he was mayor of Paris, running for president, praising America, winning tributes from American conservatives ... and look how he turned out. Just a cautionary note.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
'I have decided ...'
BunkoSquad admits he has a lot in common with President Bush and announces his own surge:
BunkoSquad admits he has a lot in common with President Bush and announces his own surge:
Beginning as soon as the Patriots' season ends (which could be Sunday, but I hope not), I will launch "Operation 25 Movies in 25 Weeks". You heard me. I own a lot of these on DVD and want to get this party finished before the technology is obsolete.
'Call it reverse trash-talking'
Michael isn't as confident this week about the Pats. Nor am I. I was until the Colts beat Baltimore last night. I guess a dose of reality set in. ... But ignore my pessimism. I'm terrible at predicting Pats games. ...
Update -- What a game!!
Michael isn't as confident this week about the Pats. Nor am I. I was until the Colts beat Baltimore last night. I guess a dose of reality set in. ... But ignore my pessimism. I'm terrible at predicting Pats games. ...
Update -- What a game!!
'Bush's Hail-Mary Pass'
I like the barn-door metaphor myself. But the hail-mary-pass isn't bad. ... The Bush administration is now bringing back people who previously dared to criticize its policies. Key graf: "Carney believes such measures could have been effective three years ago. Today, he worries they will be too little, too late." ... Does this mean those who support Roe v. Wade can also help out in Iraq? Remember that some Bushies inquired into people's views on abortion when considering them for jobs in Iraq. True story or urban legend? No one has debunked it yet. ...
I like the barn-door metaphor myself. But the hail-mary-pass isn't bad. ... The Bush administration is now bringing back people who previously dared to criticize its policies. Key graf: "Carney believes such measures could have been effective three years ago. Today, he worries they will be too little, too late." ... Does this mean those who support Roe v. Wade can also help out in Iraq? Remember that some Bushies inquired into people's views on abortion when considering them for jobs in Iraq. True story or urban legend? No one has debunked it yet. ...
'Wait until they learn Mitt's position on gun control'
They've learned it -- and Mitt's already in the early stages of flip-flopping away. ... Kevin called this one a few weeks back. ... What's next -- or what else? I'm thinking a potential flip-flop issue will be over the war. Mitt will use his past mild criticism of the Bush administration's handling of the occupation as major cover in two years hence. ... Not that all of this is hurting Mitt. Look at how Glenn offers advice on Mitt improving his pro-gun 'spiel.' Change the appearance -- and thus change the reality. One doesn't have to respect Mitt for this. It's truly cynical. But it's working. ...
They've learned it -- and Mitt's already in the early stages of flip-flopping away. ... Kevin called this one a few weeks back. ... What's next -- or what else? I'm thinking a potential flip-flop issue will be over the war. Mitt will use his past mild criticism of the Bush administration's handling of the occupation as major cover in two years hence. ... Not that all of this is hurting Mitt. Look at how Glenn offers advice on Mitt improving his pro-gun 'spiel.' Change the appearance -- and thus change the reality. One doesn't have to respect Mitt for this. It's truly cynical. But it's working. ...
Saturday, January 13, 2007
'Mike Yon, Sunday'
Kevin gave me a heads up that Michael Yon will be on WRKO's Pundit Review on Sunday at about 9:20 p.m., to talk about his latest trip to Iraq. ... Speaking of Iraq, Tufts' Daniel Drezner has some thoughts. I'm not big on his suggestion that history may be repeating itself in terms of the 'surge.' It's too historically neat and tidy. But Dan's views are always insightful -- and I've been proven wrong on a lot of things on Iraq. The president has threatened to pull out if Iraq's government doesn't get its act together. ... FYI: I'm just generally tired of all the historical analogies. The Iraq War should be remembered as the Worst Historical Analogies Ever War -- with constant comparisons to Churchill, Munich, WWII, the Civil War, Vietnam etc. etc. I've been guilty of it too. ... Michael Totten is writing up a storm about Lebanon. Seeing his photos of smashed Hezbollah bunkers, I now have a good idea how tough the fighting there was for the Israelis. They won't make the same mistakes next time. And I do believe there will be a next time. ...
Update - 01.14.07 -- Charles writes in:
BTW: I tinkered with the post above. The word I was looking for was 'analogies,' not 'metaphors.'
Kevin gave me a heads up that Michael Yon will be on WRKO's Pundit Review on Sunday at about 9:20 p.m., to talk about his latest trip to Iraq. ... Speaking of Iraq, Tufts' Daniel Drezner has some thoughts. I'm not big on his suggestion that history may be repeating itself in terms of the 'surge.' It's too historically neat and tidy. But Dan's views are always insightful -- and I've been proven wrong on a lot of things on Iraq. The president has threatened to pull out if Iraq's government doesn't get its act together. ... FYI: I'm just generally tired of all the historical analogies. The Iraq War should be remembered as the Worst Historical Analogies Ever War -- with constant comparisons to Churchill, Munich, WWII, the Civil War, Vietnam etc. etc. I've been guilty of it too. ... Michael Totten is writing up a storm about Lebanon. Seeing his photos of smashed Hezbollah bunkers, I now have a good idea how tough the fighting there was for the Israelis. They won't make the same mistakes next time. And I do believe there will be a next time. ...
Update - 01.14.07 -- Charles writes in:
I'm with you on all of the historical analogies. Victor Davis Hanson is probably the worst offender. If the writer is an actual historian I might take an analogy seriously for a moment, but one must always remember that the interpretation of both the present and the past is being put in service of an ideological argument. Non-historians are even worse. They suffer from two handicaps: first, they don't understand the present day and second, they don't understand history, which makes whatever they write suffer from the "bullshit multiplier effect" (which I just Googled and found one use of, so I'm claiming it as my own). ...
BTW: I tinkered with the post above. The word I was looking for was 'analogies,' not 'metaphors.'
'He is everywhere'
And all knowing, loving, caring. ...
Update - 01.14.07 -- Adam: "Finally! A newspaper not afraid to tell us just how wonderful that 80-story skyscraper the mayor wants to build will be."
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And all knowing, loving, caring. ...
Update - 01.14.07 -- Adam: "Finally! A newspaper not afraid to tell us just how wonderful that 80-story skyscraper the mayor wants to build will be."
.
Friday, January 12, 2007
'Multimillion dollar makeover'
Mitt's campaign is so geared toward the soulless mechanics of campaigns that it now puts out a press release touting how fast it spins and counter-spins stories. You don't get any more insiderish than this. ... A more detailed look at the mechanics can be found here. ...
Mitt's campaign is so geared toward the soulless mechanics of campaigns that it now puts out a press release touting how fast it spins and counter-spins stories. You don't get any more insiderish than this. ... A more detailed look at the mechanics can be found here. ...
Thursday, January 11, 2007
'Bush Set To Unveil Barn-Door-Locking Plan,' Part II
I'm not convinced. He doesn't even know how to close a barn door. He says Prime Minister Nuri Kamal al-Maliki supports the plan. But that obviously isn't true. ... Far be it for me to give Congressional Democrats advice, but I wouldn't try to block the president on this. It's a minor -- and insufficient -- surge that he's going to do anyway. Therefore, hold him accountabe for the results. That's something Congress hasn't done in the past. ... Tufts' Daniel Drezner asks some good questions. ...
I'm not convinced. He doesn't even know how to close a barn door. He says Prime Minister Nuri Kamal al-Maliki supports the plan. But that obviously isn't true. ... Far be it for me to give Congressional Democrats advice, but I wouldn't try to block the president on this. It's a minor -- and insufficient -- surge that he's going to do anyway. Therefore, hold him accountabe for the results. That's something Congress hasn't done in the past. ... Tufts' Daniel Drezner asks some good questions. ...
Politics, lies and videotape
The '94 video of Mitt touting his moderate credentials can be found here and here. ... But fear not: The lightweights over at NRO are more concerned about appearances. I'd really like to know who on Mitt's staff is reading Machiavelli. Whoever or whatever, the tactic of saying what needs to be said is working. It worked in 2002 when he portrayed himself as a moderate even though we knew deep down he was more conservative. Mitt's merely using the same tactic in reverse, portraying himself as a conservative even though we know deep down he's more moderate. Mitt's candidacy is quite formidable at this point precisely because he knows that accurate criticism of his flip-flopping record is beside the point. ... Back to the Future: Dodd is running for president. Is Gary Hart next? ...
The '94 video of Mitt touting his moderate credentials can be found here and here. ... But fear not: The lightweights over at NRO are more concerned about appearances. I'd really like to know who on Mitt's staff is reading Machiavelli. Whoever or whatever, the tactic of saying what needs to be said is working. It worked in 2002 when he portrayed himself as a moderate even though we knew deep down he was more conservative. Mitt's merely using the same tactic in reverse, portraying himself as a conservative even though we know deep down he's more moderate. Mitt's candidacy is quite formidable at this point precisely because he knows that accurate criticism of his flip-flopping record is beside the point. ... Back to the Future: Dodd is running for president. Is Gary Hart next? ...
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Sunday, January 07, 2007
'Tony Romo looked as if he was about to cry'
After reading about the Cowboys' crushing loss and Tony Romo's role in it, I couldn't help but wonder what 'Drew Bledoe's blog' had to say: 'The Perfect Ending.' ... It has to be one of the more vicious blogs out there. Shame on me for loving it. ... Michael is confident but not overly confident about the Pats game today. ...
After reading about the Cowboys' crushing loss and Tony Romo's role in it, I couldn't help but wonder what 'Drew Bledoe's blog' had to say: 'The Perfect Ending.' ... It has to be one of the more vicious blogs out there. Shame on me for loving it. ... Michael is confident but not overly confident about the Pats game today. ...
'Recriminations flowed'
George Will crunches the numbers and isn't wild about the 'surge' under discussion. A lot of others are not thrilled as well. ... A look at Gen. David H. Petraeus, the new commander in Iraq. ... The administration made the final decision to hand over Saddam to his executioners. It was a somewhat tough call. Respecting Iraq's sovereingty etc. But they overrode military commanders' concerns that it could turn into a propaganda boondoggle -- which is what happened. Typical. ...
George Will crunches the numbers and isn't wild about the 'surge' under discussion. A lot of others are not thrilled as well. ... A look at Gen. David H. Petraeus, the new commander in Iraq. ... The administration made the final decision to hand over Saddam to his executioners. It was a somewhat tough call. Respecting Iraq's sovereingty etc. But they overrode military commanders' concerns that it could turn into a propaganda boondoggle -- which is what happened. Typical. ...
Saturday, January 06, 2007
'My initial clue that something was wrong ...'
Charles didn't even have to pull out a calculator to figure out that Gregg's estimates are off about when democracy will end in America. ...
Update -- Maybe Gregg's estimates aren't off. Mitt is touting how he's recruiting the same Bush economic team that has pushed the nation's debt into the $8.67 trillion range. ...
Charles didn't even have to pull out a calculator to figure out that Gregg's estimates are off about when democracy will end in America. ...
Update -- Maybe Gregg's estimates aren't off. Mitt is touting how he's recruiting the same Bush economic team that has pushed the nation's debt into the $8.67 trillion range. ...
'Spotlight was on state legislators'
Deval's attempt to take control of independent authorities appears consistent and principled to me. To his credit, he backed Mitt when lawmakers tried to pull a fast one by blocking Mitt's ability to appoint a majority on the Turnpike board. Hope he presses hard even if it's probably a futile cause. ... But, c'mon, Deval. Ratchet up the rhetoric a bit. Eliot Spitzer is openly talking about 'patronage dumping grounds' and 'entrenched interests' and 'reform' as he pushes forward with his Teddy Roosevelt-like clean-up campaign. Granted, New York has been rocked lately by huge scandals, giving Spitzer valuable momentum. Maybe Massachusetts needs a few more of these to get people riled up for major change. But just a little speaking truth to power, Deval? Just a little? ...
Update - 01.7.07-- A good overview of the power struggle/harmony/whatever at the Statehouse, as a former Statehouse power prepares for his third act in life. ...
Deval's attempt to take control of independent authorities appears consistent and principled to me. To his credit, he backed Mitt when lawmakers tried to pull a fast one by blocking Mitt's ability to appoint a majority on the Turnpike board. Hope he presses hard even if it's probably a futile cause. ... But, c'mon, Deval. Ratchet up the rhetoric a bit. Eliot Spitzer is openly talking about 'patronage dumping grounds' and 'entrenched interests' and 'reform' as he pushes forward with his Teddy Roosevelt-like clean-up campaign. Granted, New York has been rocked lately by huge scandals, giving Spitzer valuable momentum. Maybe Massachusetts needs a few more of these to get people riled up for major change. But just a little speaking truth to power, Deval? Just a little? ...
Update - 01.7.07-- A good overview of the power struggle/harmony/whatever at the Statehouse, as a former Statehouse power prepares for his third act in life. ...
'When you see the blue lights flashing'
Adam has a terrific entry in his new Do You Know Who I Am? contest: 'I know my rights, I'm in Harvard law School!' ... Carpundit dispenses wise advice to others still dreaming of clerking at the U.S. Supreme Court. ...
Adam has a terrific entry in his new Do You Know Who I Am? contest: 'I know my rights, I'm in Harvard law School!' ... Carpundit dispenses wise advice to others still dreaming of clerking at the U.S. Supreme Court. ...
Friday, January 05, 2007
'They turned him into a martyr'
Incredible. I didn't think it was possible. But they managed to do it. ...
Incredible. I didn't think it was possible. But they managed to do it. ...
'Political malpractice'
Terry McAuliffe has a potential best-seller on his hands. The tidbits about John Kerry are hilarious. The description of Hillary Clinton clicking through TV channels during the Monica Lewinsky scandal is priceless.
Terry McAuliffe has a potential best-seller on his hands. The tidbits about John Kerry are hilarious. The description of Hillary Clinton clicking through TV channels during the Monica Lewinsky scandal is priceless.
'Fresh start'?
I don't get it. The Bush administration last month appointed Lt. General Raymond Odierno, whose heavy-handed military tactics in Iraq were much criticized, to replace Lt. General Peter Chiarelli, whose opposite approach has won much praise, to be the No. 2 general in Iraq. Now the Bush administration appoints Lt. Gen. David H. Petraeus, whose counter-insurgency tactics reflect those of Chiarelli, to replace Gen. George W. Casey Jr., as the No. 1 general in Iraq. I'm just an armchair general. But when even I notice the contradictions, you know we don't have a coherent strategy yet in Iraq. ... Maybe the administration should listen a little more to Brent Scowcross, who Bushies once maligned as a 'realist' and who now says we have to make changes in Iraq that include troop 'redeployment,' though not the Cindy Sheehan type of 'redeployment.' Scowcroft explains:
I'm not at all confident this administration is up to the task. After the gruesome execution of Saddam, I'm not confident Iraq is up to the task either. The current debates over troop strength, tactics, strategy, etc. seem so tragically late. ...
Update -- Charles Krauthammer on Saddam's execution: "For the Iraqi government to have botched both his trial and execution, therefore, and turned monster into victim, is not just a tragedy, but a crime - against the new Iraq that Americans are dying for, and against justice itself."
Update II -- Armchair Gen. Savin Hill thought I was being critical of the Patraeus appointment. I wasn't. I was pointing out the contradiction between the Odierno and Patraeus appointments. I obviously wasn't clear. Sorry. Anyway, here's the rest of Savin Hill's email, which rightly explains why Patraeus is a good choice:
I don't get it. The Bush administration last month appointed Lt. General Raymond Odierno, whose heavy-handed military tactics in Iraq were much criticized, to replace Lt. General Peter Chiarelli, whose opposite approach has won much praise, to be the No. 2 general in Iraq. Now the Bush administration appoints Lt. Gen. David H. Petraeus, whose counter-insurgency tactics reflect those of Chiarelli, to replace Gen. George W. Casey Jr., as the No. 1 general in Iraq. I'm just an armchair general. But when even I notice the contradictions, you know we don't have a coherent strategy yet in Iraq. ... Maybe the administration should listen a little more to Brent Scowcross, who Bushies once maligned as a 'realist' and who now says we have to make changes in Iraq that include troop 'redeployment,' though not the Cindy Sheehan type of 'redeployment.' Scowcroft explains:
That does not mean the American presence should be reduced. Indeed, in the immediate future, the opposite may be true, though any increase in troop strength should be directed at accomplishing specific, defined missions. A generalized increase would be unlikely to demonstrably change the situation and, consequently, could result in increased clamor for withdrawal. But the central point is that withdrawing combat forces should not be a policy objective, but rather, the result of changes in our strategy and success in our efforts.
I'm not at all confident this administration is up to the task. After the gruesome execution of Saddam, I'm not confident Iraq is up to the task either. The current debates over troop strength, tactics, strategy, etc. seem so tragically late. ...
Update -- Charles Krauthammer on Saddam's execution: "For the Iraqi government to have botched both his trial and execution, therefore, and turned monster into victim, is not just a tragedy, but a crime - against the new Iraq that Americans are dying for, and against justice itself."
Update II -- Armchair Gen. Savin Hill thought I was being critical of the Patraeus appointment. I wasn't. I was pointing out the contradiction between the Odierno and Patraeus appointments. I obviously wasn't clear. Sorry. Anyway, here's the rest of Savin Hill's email, which rightly explains why Patraeus is a good choice:
His record in Iraq was examplary. First, in the initial campaign the 101st (which he commanded) showed great flexibility and patience as well documented in Atkinson's book "In the Company of Soldiers". Then, the 101st took control of Mosul until mid 2004. It was quiet and considered well run while the 101st was there. When they left, it went to hell. We need to get the tank generals out of control, and put combined arms guys in -- Casey was a tank guy, and timid to boot. Petraeus kicked ass in the conventional war, ran a pacified city successfully, is the architect of Iraqi army training, and knows combined arms. FYI, since 2005 he's been in charge of the Combined Arms Center in Ft. Leavenworth. He's the right guy.
Tale of two governors?
Two Democratic governors sworn in this week, two inaugural addresses. Guess who said the first quote and who said the second:
And here's the second:
The first was Deval Patrick and the second was Eliot Spitzer. I actually liked Deval's speech -- and there were very encouraging signs that he knows what lies ahead. But I was more impressed with Spitzer's inelegant but blunt speech that didn't dismiss a reality as a 'fallacy.' I guess you can say Deval balked at speeking truth to Statehouse power. Spitzer didn't.
Update -- John pulls out a Spitzer quote that better shows the contrasts: "No one any longer believes in government as a heavy hand that can cure all our ills, but rather ..." ... I was trying to show how Spitzer took clear aim at legislators and emphasized reforms. Deval didn't.
Two Democratic governors sworn in this week, two inaugural addresses. Guess who said the first quote and who said the second:
For a very long time now we have been told that government is bad, that it exists only to serve the powerful and well-connected, that its job is not important enough to be done by anyone competent, let alone committed, and that all of us are on our own. Today we join together in common cause to lay that fallacy to rest, and to extend a great movement based on shared responsibility from the corner office to the corner of your block and back again.
And here's the second:
If ever there was a time that called out for introspection by those in government, it is now. Lincoln spoke of listening to "the better angels of our nature." Indeed, those of us who work in the great building behind me must hear and heed the serious responsibility that public service demands and rise to this moment and show the public in words and in deeds that we understand that our responsibility is to the people ... Some public officials may not want to face stricter ethics rules and more competitive elections, but all citizens will win when we finally get a government that puts the people’s interests, openness and integrity first.
The first was Deval Patrick and the second was Eliot Spitzer. I actually liked Deval's speech -- and there were very encouraging signs that he knows what lies ahead. But I was more impressed with Spitzer's inelegant but blunt speech that didn't dismiss a reality as a 'fallacy.' I guess you can say Deval balked at speeking truth to Statehouse power. Spitzer didn't.
Update -- John pulls out a Spitzer quote that better shows the contrasts: "No one any longer believes in government as a heavy hand that can cure all our ills, but rather ..." ... I was trying to show how Spitzer took clear aim at legislators and emphasized reforms. Deval didn't.
Thursday, January 04, 2007
'Romney potential wasted'
This editorial pretty much sums up the disappointing Romney years. It's not that he didn't accomplish things. It's that he could have accomplished much more. ... There were other bright moments not mentioned in the editorial. Threatening to appoint Alan Dershowitz and Howie Carr to the UMass board in order to oust Billy Bulger was simply brilliant. But it also underscored, in retrospect, how Mitt could have employed similar moves to accomplish things -- despite the petty and obstructionist antics of the Legislature. Sadly, he didn't. He was too busy running for president. So the 'potential wasted' label sticks. ...
This editorial pretty much sums up the disappointing Romney years. It's not that he didn't accomplish things. It's that he could have accomplished much more. ... There were other bright moments not mentioned in the editorial. Threatening to appoint Alan Dershowitz and Howie Carr to the UMass board in order to oust Billy Bulger was simply brilliant. But it also underscored, in retrospect, how Mitt could have employed similar moves to accomplish things -- despite the petty and obstructionist antics of the Legislature. Sadly, he didn't. He was too busy running for president. So the 'potential wasted' label sticks. ...
Wednesday, January 03, 2007
'Aisle after aisle of design desperation'
Organic food still has to be packaged just right in order to sell. ... I've found slapping the words 'Tuscan' or 'Tuscany' on packages is also effective marketing. ...
Organic food still has to be packaged just right in order to sell. ... I've found slapping the words 'Tuscan' or 'Tuscany' on packages is also effective marketing. ...
'Clear constitutional duty to vote,' Part II
The constitution won yesterday -- and Deval lost. It was as if Deval was repeating his former boss's don't-ask-don't-tell blunder in the early days of the Clinton administration. Of all the things to get tangled up in as he tries to establish his credentials and clout. ... Howie: "But is it really a good move to urge the legislators not to worry about breaking the law? That’s just the kind of encouragement they don’t need, Deval." ... But Howie's also right: The amendment won't clear the next hurdle. I'll let him explain why. ...
P.S. -- I wonder if Trav's actions were partly motivated by a desire to teach Deval a legislative lesson or two before the inauguration. Just wondering. ...
Update -- I didn't catch this: Lawmakers didn't vote on the health-care amendment. So the pick-and-choose approach toward the constitution continues. ... No, David, you don't look like fools. You look principled. Those who don't hold lawmakers to constitutional standards on one issue and then hold them to constitutional standards on other issues are the ones who should be doing the explaining. ...
The constitution won yesterday -- and Deval lost. It was as if Deval was repeating his former boss's don't-ask-don't-tell blunder in the early days of the Clinton administration. Of all the things to get tangled up in as he tries to establish his credentials and clout. ... Howie: "But is it really a good move to urge the legislators not to worry about breaking the law? That’s just the kind of encouragement they don’t need, Deval." ... But Howie's also right: The amendment won't clear the next hurdle. I'll let him explain why. ...
P.S. -- I wonder if Trav's actions were partly motivated by a desire to teach Deval a legislative lesson or two before the inauguration. Just wondering. ...
Update -- I didn't catch this: Lawmakers didn't vote on the health-care amendment. So the pick-and-choose approach toward the constitution continues. ... No, David, you don't look like fools. You look principled. Those who don't hold lawmakers to constitutional standards on one issue and then hold them to constitutional standards on other issues are the ones who should be doing the explaining. ...
A new state motto?
Armchair Gen. Savin Hill makes a startling discovery:
And claim it for a new state motto: 'We're OK.' ... My mother would often say 'okey dokey' during telephone conversations. Only telephone conversations. No explanation why. ...
Armchair Gen. Savin Hill makes a startling discovery:
A useless bit of trivia while Wikipedia browsing: The word "OK" or "okay" has its origins in ... Boston. Odd, but convincing history. Of course, you know as well as I that fad may have long played out before an editor used it, so who knows where it came from, but Mass. should claim it!
And claim it for a new state motto: 'We're OK.' ... My mother would often say 'okey dokey' during telephone conversations. Only telephone conversations. No explanation why. ...
Tuesday, January 02, 2007
'Ending months of speculation. ...'
Try years. ... A little more than a year from now we'll learn if conservatives believe Mitt is a conservative. Everything is riding on that strategy. ...
Try years. ... A little more than a year from now we'll learn if conservatives believe Mitt is a conservative. Everything is riding on that strategy. ...
Monday, January 01, 2007
One million people?
Maybe. Yet the crowds at First Night sure seemed sparse to me when I was at Copley Plaza between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. Ten thousand people at most. Granted, that was after the 7 p.m. parade and before the final midnight fireworks -- and I know they're including people throughout the day and strewn throughout the downtown. But to keep hyping "one million" people, as the TV people did last night, suggested a packed collective of cheering revelers that you'd see at a Patriots or Red Sox celebration. First Night wasn't even close. ... I do agree with Eric Martin, who likes the 'unique simplicity' and put the event in true perspective: "The beauty of First Night is that the fireworks can be all that happens, and the night is a complete success." I saw a lot happy children -- and 'success' was definitely written on their faces. ...
Maybe. Yet the crowds at First Night sure seemed sparse to me when I was at Copley Plaza between 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. Ten thousand people at most. Granted, that was after the 7 p.m. parade and before the final midnight fireworks -- and I know they're including people throughout the day and strewn throughout the downtown. But to keep hyping "one million" people, as the TV people did last night, suggested a packed collective of cheering revelers that you'd see at a Patriots or Red Sox celebration. First Night wasn't even close. ... I do agree with Eric Martin, who likes the 'unique simplicity' and put the event in true perspective: "The beauty of First Night is that the fireworks can be all that happens, and the night is a complete success." I saw a lot happy children -- and 'success' was definitely written on their faces. ...
