Why We Loved Teddy Kennedy

The liberal lion passes. Teddy Kennedy RIP. A tireless crusader for the poor, underprivileged, and the average American worker, Kennedy showed the nation what true, Senate leadership looks (and sounds) like.

We loved Teddy, with all his flaws and imbroglios, he was a giant of American politics and the last little bit of Camelot in the US. Though wealthy, he spoke with the voice of the common man, confident and empowered to speak truth to authority. He was a champion, and now he is gone. We remember him with great affection and respect. Why? Just watch the video below. Kennedy at his best on the Senate floor.



Teddy Kennedy
RIP

Mil Blogger Dies in Iraq - Leaves Final Post

Major Andrew Olmsted, a noted military blogger stationed in Iraq, died yesterday of injuries sustained in the war. May he rest in peace. Read his final, "if I'm killed in Iraq" post at Obsidian Wings. I guarantee you'll laugh, then cry. As the toll of US dead climbs toward the 4,000 mark after five years of war, our thoughts go out to Major Olmsted's family in their moment of personal loss and grief. War sucks.

Mourning the Murder of Lucky Dube

Respects to the late Lucky Dube, South Africa's magical Raggae master who was murdered in the presence of his teenage children in Johannasburg today. Dube's velvet-like voice and lush arrangements were well-known the world over. He was a personal favorite in this house, where his music is frequently dialed-up on our system. We've been fans for over a decade, and will miss the artist's commitment to social justice, freedom and love. This unfortunate event begs the question: What's up with South Africa? Crime is out of control, as is HIV-AIDS which afflicts fully 30 percent of the population. It is safe to say that ANC leader and President Thabo Mbeke is a very large disappointment. Good warriors sometimes do not make mature, national leaders. That's for sure.

Obit: Mr. Wizard Dies

I learned today of the death of an individual who, more than any American I can think of with the possible exception of Ben Franklin, was responsible for stimulating our interest in science.

The Los Angeles Times today runs the obituary for Don Herbert, known to an entire generation as Mr. Wizard. His famous television program, Watch Mr. Wizard, helped an army of future scientists discover the wonder of the real world and scientific investigation. Today, with science and intellectual thought under assault from the religious right, it is appropriate to take a minute and celebrate the life of this modest man of learning.

In Memorium

Molly Ivins 1944 - 2007

It was with a very heavy heart and an acute sense of loss that I learned today about the death of noted progressive columnist and moral bellweather Molly Ivins - who passed away after a long battle with breast cancer. Ivens died at her home in Austin, Texas.

The Austin American-Statesman characterized their hometown hero as "treasured." That about sums it up for me.