Monday, September 18, 2006

Ick!

Not being very big on banning books, imagine my surprise when I take out a semi-random title from a suburban Pennsylvania public library and get X-rated material. I am not exaggerating in the slightest.

I wasn't particularly pleased when Stephen Elliot's anthology "Politically Inspired" turned out to contain some liberal drivel. But the bits in its "erotic" chapters don't border on the grotesque -- they cross the line.

I'm sure this is yet another reason God hasn't blessed me with a kid: I can't begin to imagine what I'd do if my 11-year-old managed to get his hands on something like this.

Thursday, September 14, 2006

Here's another quandary for those brighter minds than mine. Those companies doing business in China -- are they opening it up or are they perpetuating a totalitarian system of government?

I'd suspect the truth lies in the middle, and I can't pretend to write the history of China before it even happens. I will, however, bring this effort by Google to bolster free speech -- or perhaps to put a free speech spin on a controversial company -- to netizens' attention.

I like the fact that they include a list of in-links.

Enjoy your cyber and paper reading, whether it's controversial or plain vanilla. Of course, it's always a good idea to help your library circulate books that strike your fancy. It's an equally good idea idea to give feedback to them so their aquisitions people can put themselves in the shoes of the so-called average reader.

Monday, September 11, 2006

I've got to say, I already feel guilty for not tuning in to memorial names recitation at the World Trade Center. Hope you don't fall into that trap.

I am remembering. I have not forgotten. I am hoping history will not distort that awful day, while I, of course, hope time will heal all our losses and wounds.

My relatives heard from me today, as did that good man I mention here from time to time. I am trying to respect this day by living fully and respectfully, and by supporting this great country, its democratic processes and its elected leaders. I pray for all those who have lost someone or had their lives changed as a result of America's struggle against terrorism -- in short, for all of us.

I am trying to particularly remember those who are in harm's way, and those who try to keep harm from visiting our towns, cities, 'burbs and coutryside.

If you're up to some reading, please check out Rich Galen's reposting of his September 11, 2002 column and the New York Post Opinion pages' fine coverage of the anniversary.

Tuesday, September 05, 2006

Looks as though my access to the Internet may be sporadic for a bit. Given the occasional and sometimes random postings I lob onto here, a service interruption may not even be noticed. However, I'm absolving myself of any responsibility to even *think* about this blog until I get service reestablished. Or until I get a good, reliable place to post from a public Internet connection. Ta ta for now.