Should We Still Fear Iran?

The Economist thinks we should. When I first heard the news about the latest intelligence report concerning Iran I was a little surprised by a couple of things. First, I was surprised that the Bush administration let the word get out. Two, at the response of both Mr. Bush and the American Press. The article that I refer to contends that while Iran may have dialed back their nuclear plans it does not mean that the capability is not there. I think that is a key point. Iran is fully able to transport a warhead as far as they need to. They have figured out the hard part of the equation. As long as Iran continues to run uranium through Natanz's centrifuges the closer they get to weapons grade. The danger isn't over but this may be a chance for America to practice some rare diplomacy.

1st day of school!

Today was the first day of my second year at Western Oregon University. I am glad to be back, last year was a good and interesting one. I was in the Model United Nations club and really enjoyed it. I am involved again this year and was elected president of the club. I really like the process of diplomacy and working within the context of a rules system to achieve goals. While it is true that there are some flaws within the United Nations and some people are using the system to help themselves. The intentions of the UN are both honorable and just and if followed will only help the world to be a better place. I urge people to look into it.

The High Cost of Smoking

The above link will take you to a blog that has an anti measure 50 commercial on it. The ad wants us to vote no on 50 because it changes our state constitution. I myself could care less if it affects our state constitution. The reality is that smoking is a horrible habit and one that leads to the smokers death and often the death of those around the smoker whether or not they smoke. Anything that is that destructive should be done away with. But what about free will then. Fine don't outlaw just put the smokers on smoker reservation. Then the non-smoker will not be forced to smell and breath the foul stink of the burning carcinogenic agent.

Oregon State Fair

I have been working at the state fair. Now I am not a carny. First of all I have all my teeth and I don't have little fingers. Though I do have a penchant for underage girls. But that is beside the point. I up until tomorrow will have worked 20 days in a row. It was a pretty amazing run and one that almost led to my collapse but I think the skills I learned have been worth it. I now know how to drive a forklift and a front loader so those should come in handy in the future. The job itself doesn't pay much and isn't really very rewarding but it is interesting to see the fair come together. If you are reading this and live in Oregon I would encourage you to check it out.