Thursday, October 29, 2009

Mojave Cross (Salazar v. Buono)

This is pretty interesting. I like that it's located here in our backyards. I know the family of Henry and Wanda Sandoz pretty well, and I feel badly for them. I've read the oral arguments and I really don't see any way the Supreme Court could overturn the decisions of the lower courts. As much as it upsets me to think how devastated the Sandoz's will be, the cross has to come down.

I'm interested in some open debate about this. What are the LEGAL issues at hand? I wonder if we could use our armchair attorney skills to reduce this case to its basic legal questions.

Some things to think about: Do the attempts to reclassify, protect, transfer ownership, etc. made by the government remedy the Establishment Clause issue? Could those attempts in themselves be classified as extraordinary? Would the government have taken those steps to protect the cross if it had been a Star of David? A Buddha? A swastika? What about the reversionary clause in the land transfer agreement - does that serve to allow the government to retain legal control of the land even after the ownership transfer?

My favorite question from the oral arguments was from Chief Justice John Roberts. He asked, "What if the government sold simply one square foot, or whatever the area that the base of the cross is -- is resting on the ground? Would your argument be the same?"

Cool stuff. What do you think?






Thursday, October 22, 2009

Gay Marriage Debate Put to End

The man in this video is Philip Spooner. He is 86 years old and a lifetime Republican. He is a living hero. He is quite possibly the bravest man I've ever witnessed. I am privileged to live in his time and in his country.

By the way, he just put an end to the gay marriage debate. As an attorney would say, the question is repetitious - "asked and answered" - 65+ years ago. If you don't believe so, re enroll in a U.S. History class. You may have missed something.



Wednesday, October 14, 2009

Is that D-Money?

This dude has obviously had a bad day. He really needs a drink.

Two great things about this video: 1). I think I've done a similar "loopdy-loop" thing while opening a door at a liquor store. Thank god for large handles. 2). I am reminded of the plight of the desert tortoise when I watch this guy try to flip over to his feet.

Also, I've seen Ken Hofeldt ride a mechanical bull - and it is WAY more graceful. I'm just saying.


Drunkest Guy Ever Goes for More Beer - Watch more Funny Videos