Christopher Hitchens: A War to Be Proud Of – Via Galley Slaves

Ghost Busters – Daniel Henninger: a quiet majority has replaced Vietnam’s “silent majority” (Via Q&O)

Jeff Jacoby: Iraq is no Vietnam

In July 2005, Rachelle and I paid a visit to the Empire State Building.

I was standing at the intersection of Broadway, Avenue of the Americas and 34th Street when I took this photo.

This is just inside the building at the Fifth Avenue entrance near the area where the line to the 86th floor begins.

After spending an hour or so in line, we made it to the 86th floor Observation Deck. Unfortunately for us, it was rainy, which made for poor viewing conditions. However, it was still incredible. This photo is facing south, looking at Downtown Manhattan.

Here’s a photo of the West Side. Macy’s is along the lower right hand side, and Madison Square Garden is the circular building (mostly) obscured from view on the left.

The corner of Broadway and 34th Street in front of Macy’s, where I took this photo.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving day parade is televised from the green strip of road in front of the store.

Another view of Macy’s.

Here’s a close-up of the only part of Madison Square Garden that was visible to us.

The Queen Mary 2 was in town. We drove past it on the way into the city. It is a big ship.

I have no idea what is in this photo. I just recall that I was looking north.

This is another view looking northwards. Central Park is barely visible in the distance.

Here’s the top of the Chrysler Building.

This is a view of the East Side skyline with the Chrysler, Metlife and the United Nations buildings.

Another photo of the East Side.

Lastly, this is a close-up of the United Nations building.

Austin Bay: The War on Tourism – Western democracies aren’t the only victim of terror attacks

Mark Steyn: Lessons from the Big One

Discovery has left the launch pad.

LATER: The Political Teen has video of the launch.

Not much to say about this, except it is sad when the sight of an American flag drives someone so crazy that they would burn them under a car. (Via Captain’s Quarters)

This follows on the heels of Pennsylvania’s Lt. Governor arriving uninvited to push her anti-war views at the funeral for a Marine. Michelle Malkin also has a follow-up on the Governor’s response. Also, check out today’s Day By Day cartoon.

What is it about some people whose political views drive them to commit such boorish acts?

Looking the Wrong Way – Heather Mac Donald on the futility of New York’s random baggage search policy (via Michelle Malkin)

Is There a Place Called Londonistan? – Salil Tripathi details two reasons for Britain’s home grown terrorists