“The last couple of days have not been friendly.” Brian Sack, an economist at forecaster Macroeconomic Advisers in St. Louis, on the Dow Jones industrial average, which fell more than 585 points for the week
“If the new United States authorities were to finally desist from their arrogance and decide to converse in a civilized manner, it would be a welcome change.” Raúl Castro, who replaced his ailing brother Fidel in delivering Cuba’s annual national address
“Nothing is going to bring Pat back. It’s about justice for Pat and justice for other soldiers. The nation has been deceived.” Mary Tillman, on the death of her son Pat Tillman, an Army Ranger and former NFL player. It was originally reported that the enemy shot him, until a medical investigation indicated his comrades did. A congressional hearing will explore how high up the deception went.
“It is not surprising that some books would have printing errors.” A statement by “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” publisher Scholastic, on hundreds of copies (out of 12 million) that are missing 33 pages. Meanwhile, Scholastic is suing companies that distributed copies of the final novel in the series prior to its official release date.
“The label currently reads: bottled at the source p.w.s. The change will be made to spell out p.w.s. by reading public water source.” Pepsi-Cola spokeswoman Michelle Naughton, after the company was pressured to admit Aquafina is tap water
“The biggest problem is, my butt hurts. Is that normal?” Presidential hopeful John Edwards, after a hard day of biking in Iowa with champion cyclist and cancer survivor Lance Armstrong
“People are always looking to say, ‘Kid star goes off the rails.’ But I try very hard not to go that way because it would be too easy for them.” Daniel Radcliffe, on early celebrity
“I was almost hit by my assistant Tarin’s mom.” Lindsay Lohan, explaining the car chase that ended in another DUI charge for the actress
Reader Evelyn Buswell of Galesburg, Ill., submitted this quote: “It’s unconscionable that the Department of Agriculture would think that a dead person was actively engaged in the business of farming.” Iowa Sen. Charles Grassley, on learning that the government had sent $1.1 billion in farm payments to more than 170,000 dead people over a seven-year period
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2023-01-01” author: “Raphael Chambers”
“Regardless of how reforms might inconvenience us or impact our personal lifestyles, our priority must be to convince our constituents that we are here to advocate their best interests.” Sen. Russell Feingold, on a new ethics bill on lobbying that aims to prevent Capitol Hill corruption
“Once you sacrifice rights, it’s hard to get those rights protected again.” Sen. Dianne Feinstein, on White House pressure to expand government surveillance, meant for suspected terrorists
“Those who are talking about attacking our holiest places are committing blasphemy. The punishment for this offense is death, and death only.” Mohammed Hussain Mahanti, of a major Pakistani religious coalition, on comments made by Colorado Rep. Tom Tancredo that the best way to prevent nuclear attacks would be to bomb Mecca and Medina
“John Edwards will never ask Rupert Murdoch for money—he won’t accept his money.” A campaign e-mail sent to supporters of the presidential candidate. Edwards, who refused to debate on Fox News, pushed Sen. Hillary Clinton to return money from the media mogul.
“I’m a supporter of Vick … That’s because I’m a good friend of his, and also we’re guys that obviously compete to win the Super Bowl.” Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb, on Atlanta Falcons quarterback Michael Vick, who is scheduled to go on trial in November on federal dogfighting charges
“It was like being in the Roman circus.” Book publisher Nan Talese, describing her appearance on “Oprah” to defend the publication of James Frey’s fabricated memoir, “A Million Little Pieces”
“My father taught me to stand straight and take whatever punishment or hardships were the result of my own actions.” Lionel Richie, on socialite daughter Nicole, who is pregnant and was jailed
“I’ll never be mean. It’s just not in me.” Whoopi Goldberg, on being chosen to join the contentious cast of ABC’s “The View”
Reader Brent Nelson of Oakdale, Minn., submitted this quote:
“It’s kind of a trick to get people from Minneapolis to come out to Shakopee … By creating our own city, we kind of created a tourist destination for the hipster elite.” Mike Haeg, who is founding his own municipality in the middle of an existing town. He serves as the mayor; his constituency is the rest of his family.
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2022-12-26” author: “Donte Huskin”
“His understanding started very, very early in the administration that those e-mails were being archived.” Robert Luskin, Karl Rove’s attorney, on the e-mails missing from the political adviser’s account regarding the firing of eight U.S. attorneys
“The very fundamental issue is, they don’t know where the hell they’re going.” Retired Marine Gen. John J. (Jack) Sheehan, on President George W. Bush’s search for a “war czar” to oversee military operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. The former NATO commander turned down an offer from the White House for the job.
“We are just as innocent today as we were back then.” David Evans, one of the former Duke University lacrosse players vindicated after North Carolina Attorney General Roy Cooper dropped all charges brought against him and two teammates in 2006
“If he was not, he certainly should have been.” Tom Shea, New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine’s chief of staff, on the news that the governor was, in violation of state law, not wearing his seat belt during a hit-and-run highway crash en route to meet with Don Imus and the Rutgers University women’s basketball team
“I’m really surprised CBS did this … Imus does a lot for a local station and, frankly, there are a few dozen stations that count on his show every morning.” Tony Duesing, local radio program director in Wichita, Kans., on the effect of Don Imus’s ouster on broadcasters around the country
“You are out of this world.” Martha Stewart, from mission control to her friend Charles Simonyi, who rode a space shuttle for $25 million
“The effects are comparable to those achieved with blood-pressure-lowering medication.” German researcher Dr. Dirk Taubert, whose study shows that chocolate has healthy side effects
“I told you so.” Larry Birkhead, after learning that a court had ruled that he fathered the late Anna Nicole Smith’s daughter, Dannielynn
Reader Kelsey Parker of Milan, Ohio, submitted this quote: “This is not an ideal situation for anybody, but at this point we don’t have any other options.” Gretl Plessinger, of the Florida Corrections Department, on five convicted sex offenders who were sleeping under a bridge due to laws restricting them from living within 2,500 feet of schools
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2023-01-13” author: “Jesse Gentry”
“A year ago my approval rating was in the 30s, my nominee for the Supreme Court had just withdrawn and my vice president had shot someone. Ah, those were the good ole days.” President George W. Bush, poking fun at himself during the Radio and Television Correspondents’ Association dinner.
“They could have told us the truth. And if they didn’t want to tell us the truth, they could have said that we don’t know.” Mary Tillman, mother of Cpl. Pat Tillman, a National Football League player killed in a 2004 friendly-fire incident in Afghanistan. Military investigators have recommended that nine soldiers be held accountable for errors in reporting Tillman’s death.
“This is natural country. You should see it in its natural beauty. It’s like putting a fifth leg on a horse.” Bob Simpson, an Australian tourist among the first to visit Arizona’s Grand Canyon Skywalk, the glass-bottomed bridge over the canyon that just opened.
“Undercover Brother’s good at karate and all the rest of that, but the Brother can’t drive.” Comedian Eddie Griffin, on an accident in which he totaled a $1.5 million Ferrari Enzo sports car. He was unhurt in the accident, which some media outlets have speculated was a publicity stunt for Griffin’s forthcoming movie.
“Business has been good, very good.” Steve Bell, assistant manager of a Columbia, S.C., carwash. The southeastern region of the country has experienced a record pollen count over the past week.
“The evidence is really now quite conclusive that male circumcision is effective at preventing HIV among men.” Kevin De Cock, the top HIV-AIDS official for the World Health Organization, on his group’s recommendation that sub-Saharan countries provide free or low-cost circumcision to reduce rates of HIV infection.
“Michael is just a phenomenon, like a mutant or something.” U.S. swimmer Tara Kirk, on teammate Michael Phelps’s record-shattering performance at the World Championships in Australia
“This is an assault on Christians during Holy Week.” Catholic League spokeswoman Kiera McCaffrey, on “My Sweet Lord,” an art exhibit that portrayed the crucifixion of Jesus Christ as a sculpture made of chocolate. The exhibit was later canceled.
“She was very proud of her accomplishments, and when asked, she’d say it was the thing to do, to be patriotic. And, she was very patriotic.” Kelly Auber, a friend of Charlotte Winters’s, the last surviving female World War I veteran, who died last week at 109.
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2023-01-25” author: “Frances Parrish”
“The president is the one who conducts foreign policy, not the Speaker of the House.” —Vice President Dick Cheney, criticizing Rep. Nancy Pelosi’s announcement from Damascus that Israel would consider negotiations with Syria. Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert later qualified that Syria must first drop its support of terrorism.
“I find it offensive that the president is still using China as an excuse to do nothing when the U.S. has always been a leader in environmental protection.” —Sen. Barbara Boxer, on President Bush’s statement that further fuel-efficiency regulations would have no effect unless China agreed to cut its own emissions
“The 2008 candidates will be making mincemeat of all previous fund-raising records.” —Political analyst Charles E. Cook Jr., on record presidential campaign fund-raising. New York Sen. Hillary Clinton and Illinois Sen. Barack Obama are neck and neck atop the list.
“We’re putting a lot of felons back into the voting booth, back into the jury room and back into your home, and I just think that’s a very terrible thing to do.” —Florida Attorney General Bill McCollum, criticizing his state’s vote to return voting rights to most convicted felons after they’ve completed their sentences
“It’s going to sound like white guys telling black and Hispanic guys to do something that would affect their manhood.” —AIDS activist Peter Staley, expressing concern about public reaction to New York City’s new campaign encouraging circumcision
“Our characterization was thoughtless and stupid, and we are sorry.” —Radio host Don Imus, apologizing for racially disparaging remarks he made about the Rutgers University women’s basketball team
“It went down pretty well.” —Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards, as quoted by a U.K. magazine, on snorting a mix of cocaine and his father’s ashes. After an outcry, he said it was an April Fools’ joke.
“Live, from the nursing home in Livingston, here’s Larry King!” —Larry King, joking about having no plans to quit his talk show
Reader William Kozy of New York submitted this quote: “Logic dictates that if the rabbis say cannabis is nonkosher for Passover, it is apparently kosher during the rest of the year.” —Michelle Levin, a spokesperson for Israel’s pro-legalization Green Leaf Party, creatively interpreting a suggestion to lay off the drug during the weeklong Jewish holiday
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2023-01-24” author: “Evelyn Frizell”
“Your credibility has been significantly impaired by the panorama of the responses you’ve made.” Pennsylvania Sen. Arlen Specter, a Republican, to Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, at a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on the firing of eight U.S. attorneys
“This war is lost and the surge is not accomplishing anything, as indicated by the extreme violence in Iraq.” Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, Democrat of Nevada, comparing the war in Iraq to Vietnam. Reid warned the president during a closed-door White House meeting that Iraq would be Bush’s legacy.
“I want to remind you that after Vietnam, after we left, millions of people lost their life … My concern is there would be a parallel.” President George W. Bush, on continuing the surge of U.S. troops in Iraq. Responding to Senator Reid, Bush warned of violence akin to that of Cambodia in the ’ 70s if U.S. forces withdrew.
“Until this decision, I think a lot of people were skeptical about whether Roe could be overturned.” Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood, on the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold the “partial birth” abortion ban
“You now see where relationships, conflicts of interest, and inducements and bribes have become part of the system.” California Rep. George Miller, a Democrat, on an investigation into ties between private loan companies and Department of Education officials
“I think our jobs should be bigger than text messaging. Don’t they have better things to do, like coach their players?” Iowa football coach Kirk Ferentz, on an NCAA panel’s push to ban text-messaging high-school recruits. Because of a loophole in rules that limit other contact, some players get dozens per day.
“You are a rude, thoughtless little pig.” Angry dad Alec Baldwin, in a phone message to his 11-year-old daughter when she missed a scheduled call. It was allegedly leaked by Baldwin’s ex, Kim Basinger.
“This is a bit too much.” Bollywood star Shilpa Shetty, to actor Richard Gere, who kissed her at a New Delhi charity event, violating a cultural taboo
Reader Nanette L. Updike of Mt. Vernon, Ohio, submitted this quote: “We want your money whether you are here legally or not and whether you earned it legally or not.” Internal Revenue Service Commissioner Mark W. Everson, on the IRS practice of collecting taxes from illegal immigrants by assigning taxpayer ID numbers
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2022-12-25” author: “Ray Redmond”
“We have never been experiencing such big pressure.” —Chinese Prime MinisterWen Jiabao,on how the declining U.S. dollar is making it difficult to manage China’s $1.43 trillion in foreign-exchange reserves
“The idea that we are complacent about this is quite ridiculous.” —British Prime MinisterGordon Brown,apologizing for his government’s loss of 25 millionchild-benefitrecords on two missing discs
“We will not surrender, and we will not retreat.” —French PresidentNicolas Sarkozy,vowing not to back down from his confrontation with labor unions, as civil-service employees staged a walkout over job cuts and transit workers continued their strike
“Last time around we removed three zeroes and they quickly returned.” —Zimbabwe’s central-bank governorGideon Gono,introducing new dollar notes with little hint of despair, and remarking how quickly hyperinflation devalued the last currency
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2022-12-20” author: “Carmen Robichaux”
“I am ready to fly without coming back.” Seventy-year-old former Soviet cosmonaut Valentina Tereshkova, who became the world’s first female in space in 1963, talking about her dream to fly to Mars
“Pierce brings a certain smooch factor.” Producer Julie Craymer, on the decision to cast Pierce Brosnan in an upcoming film version of “Mamma Mia,” the hit Broadway musical based on Abba songs
“I think that Jesus would be disappointed in our ignoring the plight of those around us who are suffering and our focus on our own selfish short-term needs. I think he would be appalled, actually.” Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards, on what Jesus might think of the United States’ willingness to go to war unnecessarily and disregard for the needy
“How can Abe lie to the world like that?” Former “comfort woman” Wu Hsiu-mei, responding to recent comments by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe denying that his country had a World War II-era policy to force women into sex slavery
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2023-01-14” author: “Alice Gramham”
“We’re delighted that Nauru finally will have no more refugees on it from now on.” —Richard Towle, regional head of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, on Australia’s decision to end the practice of sending asylum seekers to live on nearby Pacific islands
“The bride was wearing white and was ravishing, as usual … the bridegroom wasn’t bad either.” —Francois Lebel, mayor of Paris’s eighth arrondissement, who married French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his model turned bride Carla Bruni in a private civil ceremony last Sunday
“Almost by stealth, we have ended up drinking much more than we used to in the past.” —British lawmakerNorman Lamb, lamenting an increase in the size of wine goblets in the country’s pubs
“Certain politicians are … filing for a divorce before the marriage has yet even been agreed.” —Olli Rehn, European Union commissioner, on a move by Serbia’s prime minister to block a trade deal due to European support of Kosovo’s declaration of independence
“It’s tastier than other meats—nothing can compete with rat.” —Sala Prompim, Thai fast-food vendor, on a recent boom in rodent sales at street-side food carts
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2022-12-27” author: “Thomas Mowery”
“Siberia is very low on excitement and contacts.” Stefan Becker, head of the youth and social affairs department in Giessen, Germany, where a 16-year-old agreed to nine months in a remote Russian village as punishment for his violent behavior
“There will be more cases like this if children are not given access to the truth.” David Alton, a House of Lords member, on a pair of British twins, parted by adoption as infants, who later married without realizing their true identities
“We’re back with Apple TV, take two.” Steve Jobs, the CEO and cofounder of Apple, on unveiling a new iTunes movie-rental service. The news caused Blockbuster shares to plummet 17 percent.
“Who would not be moved by such a discovery? This is van Gogh’s soul.” Doreta Peppa, a Greek writer who found a sketchbook believed to belong to the famous Dutch painter. The book had been stuffed in a box of her late father’s papers.
“It’s too bad they’re extinct. It’d love to see those things.” Mary Dawson, a paleontologist at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History, on the discovery in Uruguay of a rodent fossil that weighed a ton and grew to the size of a bull
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2022-12-29” author: “David Bennett”
“I guess we can call this nonviolent chemical warfare.” — Paul Watson , an animal-rights protester whose group, Sea Shepherd, hurled bottles of rancid butter and packets of unidentified slippery chemicals onto the deck of a Japanese whaling ship
“I’d rather spend my money on my genome than on a Bentley or an airplane.” —Biotechnology entrepreneur and millionaire Dan Stoicescu, who became the second person ever to purchase his entire genetic sequence, for $350,000
“He said I tasted better than oven-baked potato. That was great.” — Susan Ruusunen , writing about her affair with Finland’s Prime Minister Matti Vanhanen. Last week, a court cleared Ruusunen of any wrongdoing for publishing her kiss-and-tell memoir.
“I voted for Medvedev because Zhirinovsky is ridiculous, Zyuganov is too old and I don’t know who Bogdanov is.” — Viktor Fomenkov , a machine operator in Moscow, explaining his pick among limited choices in the Russian presidential elections
“A woman comes in, a man goes out. That’s how the quota works, that’s the law.” — Kjell Erik Oie , Norway’s deputy minister of Children and Equality, on the country’s new mandate that 40 percent of CEOs be female
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2022-12-23” author: “Gerald Martinetto”
“As long as there’s jobs here that Americans aren’t doing, people are willing to get in the bottom of 18-wheelers and take advantage of this whole coyote system.” President George W. Bush, pushing for tighter immigration laws
“There are all types of conditions that could be in there for these folks … some little cavity, some little corner.” Arch Allred, holding out hope for his cousin and five other miners trapped in a Utah cave-in.
“It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to know that the way the MTA communicates with their passengers is primitive and the subject of ‘Saturday Night Live’ skits.” Gene Russianoff, a lawyer who advocates for New York subway riders, on the lack of information for commuters after heavy rains and a tornado closed much of the system
“Our hearts were broken, we were thrown under the bus, we were pushed aside. All of those great promises … were broken.” Lesbian singer Melissa Etheridge, who confronted Hillary Clinton about her husband’s gay-rights record at a first-ever debate on gay issues
“It was a rash … It’s not uncommon for the president to have tick bites when he’s out biking.” White House spokesman Scott Stanzel, on the disclosure that Bush was treated for Lyme disease last August
“They have decided, because of the uncertainty of the future, that they need to step back and save a bit.” Donald F. Terry, of the Inter-American Development Bank, on the fact that fewer Mexicans (64 percent, down from 71) are sending money back to their homeland
“It’s cheeky, has loads of jokes, but we like to think it is theologically sound. Its heart is in the right place.” Writer Toby Rose, on his musical “Discotivity,” which combines disco and Jesus
“Getting 20 minutes, I was happy.” Soccer star David Beckham, on his debut—on a dodgy ankle—with the Los Angeles Galaxy
Reader Stephanie Martin of Lakewood, Colo., submitted this quote:
“I’m a heavy man, and wearing clothing while running makes me sweat profusely … I know what I did was wrong.” The Rev. Robert Whipkey, on being charged with indecent exposure after he was caught walking down the street naked at 4:30 a.m. He told police he had been jogging at the Frederick, Colo., high-school track.
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2022-12-10” author: “Ronald Cho”
“Premature and public discussion of the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq reinforces enemy propaganda.” Under Secretary of Defense Eric Edelman, in reply to a request by Sen. Hillary Clinton for information on troop-withdrawal plans. She called Edelman’s response “offensive and totally inappropriate.”
“It’s a sad day when the Democratically led Agriculture Committee is a better friend to wealthy special interests than the Bush administration.” Raymond Offenheiser, Oxfam America’s president, on the proposed $1 million income ceiling for individuals receiving farm subsidies. The White House proposed $200,000.
“We are honored by the return of heroes of freedom to their home and the bosom of their homeland.” Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, on the release of 255 Palestinians imprisoned in Israel. The amnesty came after discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert.
“There are very few symbols as powerful as kids.” Sen. John D. Rockefeller IV, doubting threats from the Bush administration that the president would veto any expansion to the State Children’s Health Insurance Program. The Senate Finance Committee approved an increase.
“We will do the right thing for our club as the legal process plays out. We have a season to prepare for.” A statement released by the Atlanta Falcons football team after its star quarterback, Michael Vick, was indicted on federal dogfighting charges
“Would Whole Foods buy [Wild Oats]? Almost surely not at current prices.” Whole Foods CEO John Mackey, in one of several anonymous Yahoo postings that praised his company. Whole Foods did, in fact, try to buy the rival natural-food retailer, but the Federal Trade Commission has filed an antitrust suit.
“There is no reason to believe whatsoever that this is anything other than a failure of our infrastructure.” New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, on a steam-pipe explosion that caused panic
“It looked like a bazooka.” Joe Quinn, on a military rocket launcher discovered in his neighbor’s yard in Jersey City, N.J. The FBI is investigating the mysterious find.
Reader Mike Barrett of Ashburn, Va., submitted this quote: “The only way I could win this tournament is to be aggressive … I’ve seen the miracles of God with my own eyes. I did a lot of bluffing also.” Psychologist Jerry Yang, who took home $8.25 million after winning the World Series of Poker. Before he won, he said he would donate 10 percent of his prize money to charity.
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2022-12-08” author: “Laverne Stewart”
“We should try to have a more serious and a smaller group.” Presidential hopeful John Edwards, to Hillary Clinton. The candidates were overheard on television microphones discussing their desire to exclude lesser-known rivals from future joint appearances.
“We can categorically state that we have not released man-eating badgers into the area.” Maj. Mike Shearer, spokesman for the U.K. military in Iraq, on rumors that British forces had released aggressive carnivorous badgers in Basra
“The military action on the Red Mosque is causing hatred in the hearts of Muslims in Pakistan.” Former parliamentarian Hafiz Fazal Mohammad, at a rally attended by 700 angry protesters. Likenesses of both Uncle Sam and the U.S.-supported military ruler, Pervez Musharraf, were set on fire as protesters threatened revenge against the general and George W. Bush.
“The irony is that a ‘jury of his peers’ brought Conrad Black down. I’m sure he doesn’t consider those people his peers.” Shareholder activist Herbert Denton, on flamboyant Canadian press baron Conrad Black. Black was found guilty last week of obstruction of justice and mail fraud.
“We are entering a period this summer of increased risk.” Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff, in a statement he said he based on a “gut feeling”
“The most important thing for me is family, second is footba— soccer, sorry.” British athlete David Beckham, who arrived in Los Angeles for his long-awaited spot on the L.A. Galaxy Major League Soccer team. Fans are hoping that Beckham’s playing in the United States will raise the sport’s profile to the higher level it holds in the rest of the world.
“When my relatives start talking to me about videogames, then I’ll know that I have succeeded.” Shigeru Miyamoto, Nintendo’s legendary designer, on his desire to bring gaming to the masses
“I don’t ever do anything illegal here.” Singer Kelly Clarkson, on eating a (legal) marijuana cookie while abroad in Amsterdam
Reader Carl Miller of Richmond, Va., submitted this quote: “It was one of those random things that could have happened anywhere. I’m not worried. I just hope he concentrates on the books and doesn’t get caught up in the partying.” Everette Taylor Sr., on accompanying his son on his freshman orientation at Virginia Tech, site of the worst school shooting in U.S. history
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2023-01-08” author: “Della Hughes”
“We cannot continue asking our troops to sacrifice indefinitely while the Iraqi government is not making measurable progress to move its country forward.” GOP Sen. Pete Domenici, of New Mexico, breaking with the president on his war strategy
“We can be martyred but we will not surrender. We are ready for our heads to be cut off but we will not bow to them.” Abdul Rashid Ghazi, on radical Islamists’ attacking the Red Mosque in Islamabad, Pakistan. Ghazi, who is deputy leader of the mosque, took control after the leader, his brother, was caught escaping in a burqa and women’s shoes.
“I am glad to tell you that my best days still lay ahead of me.” David Ritcheson, at a congressional hearing in April, one year after he was beaten and sexually assaulted in a hate crime. Apparently still traumatized, the Mexican-American committed suicide late last month.
“Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa confirmed today that he is separating from his wife after more than 20 years of marriage.” Telemundo reporter Mirthala Salinas, in an on-air broadcast that’s now under scrutiny—because, as she later admitted, she was the Los Angeles mayor’s mistress
“Mostly this time of year we’re fighting wildfires … The problem with this is, the water won’t go away.” Texas emergency management chief Jack Colley, on ongoing floods that damaged thousands of homes and led to more than a dozen deaths
“If we get married, I’ll make you hot dogs every day.” A sign, in Japanese, at the July 4 Coney Island hot-dog eating contest for six-time champ Takeru Kobayashi. Californian Joey Chestnut won this time, downing a record-breaking 66 hot dogs and buns in 12 minutes.
“They say I can bring my husband to swap with the baby.” Oluchi Hill, whose British child was kidnapped by militants in Nigeria. More than 100 expatriates have been seized this year by criminal gangs.
“I think I might die.” Daniel Radcliffe, the actor who plays Harry Potter, on his character’s fate in the final book, due out this month
Reader Wes Piatt of Meridian, Idaho, submitted this quote:
“I’m more comfortable telling people I’m a nudist than saying I’m a Democrat.” Idaho resident Terri Capshaw, who built a home next to the site of the 61st annual convention of Northwest nudists. At Sun Meadow Resort, guests can participate in a range of activities, like bocce, concerts and cooking courses—all without clothing.
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2023-01-03” author: “Mildred Freitas”
“It’s nothing less than embarrassing that three of the world’s biggest oil companies are calling for tougher measures than the White House.” David Doniger, of the Natural Resources Defense Council, on President Bush’s call for an international greenhouse-gases summit to set long-term emission-reduction goals
“It wasn’t us who initiated a new round of arms race.” Russian President Vladimir Putin, on tests of Russian missiles with nuclear capabilities. Putin said he was responding to the U.S. military’s plans to deploy new missile defense sites in ex-Soviet areas.
“Anyone on the Web for a while would have received one of Soloway’s e-mails.” Anti-spam investigator John Reid, on the arrest of Robert Alan Soloway, known as the Spam King, who allegedly sent tens of millions of unsolicited e-mails
“Any time you hit Kennedy, it is the most hurtful thing to the United States.” A suspect in an alleged plot to attack New York’s JFK airport, in an FBI wiretap transcript
“What we are seeing is a disturbing pattern on the part of the Iranians in efforts to harass these innocent people.” Tom Casey, a State Department spokesman, on three Iranian-Americans who have been detained in Iran in the past several weeks
“It’s like the wound that was starting to heal has been cut open again.” Tina Allerellie, sister of one of Dr. Jack Kevorkian’s patients, on the doctor’s early release from prison. Kevorkian, 79, spent eight years behind bars after being convicted of second-degree murder.
“I wouldn’t have taken it as a bomb threat, personally. However, you have to, I guess, take things seriously these days.” Veterinary technician Amy Tatreau, who works at a Boston-area strip mall that was evacuated after employees at a Bank of America branch mistook a distorted fax for a bomb threat
“I think it is actually normal for a young girl to go out after a huge divorce.” Britney Spears, explaining her recent stint in rehab
Reader Alice Chenault of Huntsville, Ala., submitted this quote:
“It’s a good accomplishment. I probably won’t ever kill anything else that big.” Jamison Stone, 11, of Pickensville, Ala., on the 1,051-pound pig he says he shot with a .50-caliber revolver. Jamison says he chased the nine-foot-long hog for three hours before finally killing it. (Some bloggers say photos of the pig look fabricated.)
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2022-12-04” author: “Lashanda Paul”
“It is nothing different from imperialism.” Russian President Vladimir Putin, on U.S. plans to deploy parts of a missile defense system in Poland and the Czech Republic
“I’m going home for a while to try and be normal.” Antiwar activist Cindy Sheehan, announcing that she will no longer be the face of the U.S. antiwar movement, after two years of protesting the administration’s actions in Iraq
“Come July 1, I’ll be ready for a big, juicy steak.” Anita Snow, Havana bureau chief for the Associated Press for the past eight years, on her decision to eat only state-imposed rations for the next month. Her experiment comes amid government debate over whether the 45-year-old ration system should still be implemented.
“I couldn’t believe my eyes when I saw this jet black thing, about 45 feet long, moving fairly fast in the water.” Gordon Holmes, 55, from Shipley, Yorkshire, who has captured what Loch Ness monster watchers say is the best footage ever taken of the elusive, allegedly mythical creature
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2023-01-20” author: “Mary Newman”
“America does not have any intention of being the world’s jailer.” White House Deputy Press Secretary Dana Perino, on a jail that will be built in Afghanistan to hold some of the prisoners currently at Guantánamo Bay
“Think she’s trying to get the Mafia vote? I think most of them have lost the right to vote. I hope.” Presidential hopeful Rudy Giuliani, on a Hillary Clinton campaign commercial that parodies the final scene of “The Sopranos”
“Our strategy is to demonstrate to the Palestinians in a very tangible way that moderate leadership, through a process of dialogue and negotiations, can achieve much more for the Palestinians than the extremists ever will.” Israeli Foreign Ministry spokesman Mark Regev, on insurgent conflicts occurring in the Gaza Strip. Israel, among other nations, has scheduled a mediation summit in Egypt.
“It’s a product of mythical proportions. They’re not saying the iPhone will … bring world peace, but that it will do everything else. It’s impossible to live up to these expectations.” Roger Entner, of market-research firm IAG. Apple’s new cell phone debuts June 29.
“This event is about the firemen who were lost, honoring them and their families. It is not a political event and shouldn’t be politicized in any way.” Jeff Zack, of the International Association of Firefighters, after presidential candidates came to mourn the loss of nine South Carolina firefighters killed in a blaze
“I will address my own personal history regarding steroids. I will not discuss in any fashion any other individual.” New York Yankee Jason Giambi, on agreeing to cooperate with a steroid investigation
“It’s sort of like going to the fair and waiting on the main act to get here.” Athens, Ala., Mayor Dan Williams, as he awaited President George W. Bush. It was the first known time a sitting president has visited the town.
“I’m claustrophobic and my cell is really small. I was going a little crazy … but I’m getting used to it.” Paris Hilton, from prison
Reader Rachel Grimes of Waycross, Ga., submitted this quote:
“Let’s get real here. Fox and CBS and all of them are in the business of nonstop soft porn, but God forbid we should use a condom in the pursuit of sexual pleasure.” Mark Crispin Miller, a media critic, on the networks’ decision not to accept a Trojan advertisement encouraging condom use
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2023-01-26” author: “Nancy Daniels”
“I’m required to detain him. And I just think blue-collar criminals are entitled to the same kind of justice as white-collar criminals.” U.S. District Judge Reggie Walton, who denied Lewis (Scooter) Libby’s bid to stay out of jail while waiting for an appeal. Libby, Vice President Dick Cheney’s former chief of staff, was convicted of perjury and obstruction of a leak investigation.
“We’re going to show the American people that the promises in this bill will be kept.” President George W. Bush, after agreeing to add more than $4 billion in border-security funding to reach a compromise on an immigration bill that had stalled in the Senate
Stay calm and avoid any retaliatory actions that target the innocent and the sacred places of others." Grand Ayatollah Ali Sistani, to Iraqi Shiites after one of their shrines was bombed, an attack that reignited violence and threatened safety in the Green Zone
I think clearly some of the statements I made were improper." Durham (N.C.) County District Attorney Mike Nifong, on trial for alleged misconduct in prosecuting three Duke lacrosse players for rape. The charges were later dropped. Nifong, who resigned, may lose his license to practice law.
“There’s a lot of baggage that comes with us, trust me. A lot of baggage.” Prince William, in a first-ever American TV interview with his brother, Prince Harry. This August marks the 10th anniversary of the death of their mother, Princess Diana.
“I didn’t get the sleep that I wanted to, but that’s not an excuse in a game where it’s win or go home.” Cleveland Cavalier LeBron James, after his second son was born during the NBA Finals. The San Antonio Spurs swept the Cavs for their fourth title in nine years.
“Odds are you’re going to deal with tragedy.” Missourian Joyce Stahlschmidt, whose four sons (of 11 children) will be deployed in Iraq
“I can only apologize so many times.” Actor Isaiah Washington, who was fired from the television show “Grey’s Anatomy” after making homophobic comments about another cast member
Reader Sandra Gellings of Birmingham, Ala., submitted this quote:
“In Alabama we have had experience turning corn into alcohol for years.” Gov. Bob Riley, joking about the state’s history of moonshining as he filled up a Chevrolet Impala with ethanol-based fuel. About 2,000 state vehicles will start using alternative fuel to save money and help the environment.
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2023-01-25” author: “Steve Spivey”
“I told Vladimir [Putin] I really look forward to having him to my folks’ place in Maine to be able to continue these open discussions.” President George W. Bush, who met with the Russian president at a G8 summit to talk about missile defense strategy
“It is a sad state of affairs when this administration withdraws a general they believe is qualified simply to avoid having to publicly defend their failed Iraq policy.” Sen. John Kerry, on the Bush administration’s decision not to reappoint Gen. Peter Pace to a second term as chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
“I was looking for something else … I was seeing everyday stuff and turned the page, and there was a Lincoln document.” National Archives employee Trevor Plante, on finding a long-lost letter from the 16th president about the Union victory at Gettysburg, dated July 7, 1863
“I’ll be changing my job next year … and it will be nice to finally have a college degree on my résumé.” Bill Gates, in his commencement speech at Harvard. He dropped out as an undergraduate to pursue his software business; now he’s becoming a full-time philanthropist.
“Any broadcaster who sees this decision as a green light to send more gratuitous sex and violence into our homes would be making a huge mistake.” FCC Commissioner Michael Copps, on a court ruling that rejected a federal policy punishing accidental use of profanities on TV and radio
“I don’t blame them. I’d rather be having a chocolate croissant than being down 3-0.” Tennis star Maria Sharapova, on learning that many fans were still outside the stadium, eating lunch, as her French Open semifinal got off to a bad start; she lost to Ana Ivanovic
“Mom! Mom! Mom! It’s not right!” Heiress Paris Hilton, in a Los Angeles courtroom, upon learning that she would return to prison after being transferred to house arrest for unspecified reasons
“In as few words as possible, no.” Longtime “The Price Is Right” host Bob Barker, on whether he’ll watch the show now that he’s retired
Reader Alice Johannen of Chelmsford, Mass., submitted this quote:
“I figured he would go up there and step on somebody’s neck, and that would be the end of it. I know how that situation would end. I didn’t know how the book would end.” Katie Hayden, wife of retired police commander Bob Hayden, on why she kept reading while he subdued an unruly passenger on their flight to Boston
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2023-01-18” author: “Sallie Collins”
“There has been no water and electricity since Sunday, and we don’t know what is happening until we get in and get the wounded out.” John Holmes, the U.N. under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, on the nearly 30,000 Palestinian refugees living in Lebanon who began to flee their camp after the Lebanese military attacked Islamic militants in the area
“It could be a bloody—it could be a very difficult August.” President George W. Bush, on what is in store for U.S. troops in Iraq in the months before a “progress report” due in September
“They told us, ‘We’re sorry to inform you the body we found has been identified as Joe’.” Debbie Anzack, of Torrance, Calif., on discovering that her nephew Pfc. Joseph Anzack Jr., 20, one of three U.S. soldiers missing after an ambush outside Baghdad on May 12, had been found dead
“I was at a funeral Saturday, and when the monsignor greeted me he said, ‘My God, Bart, you have to do something about these gas prices’.” Michigan Rep. Bart Stupak, on a bill that would make gasoline price-gouging a federal offense
“I don’t know why, I just don’t like the toes separated.” Boston Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek, on the five-toed socks that have become popular among his teammates, thanks to two new Japanese pitchers, Daisuke Matsuzaka and Hideki Okajima
“Do not call me a coward, because No. 1, I sit here every single day, open my heart and tell people what I believe.” TV personality Elisabeth Hasselbeck, during a squabble with cohost Rosie O’Donnell over the war in Iraq on ABC’s “The View”
“I was trying to wear a vote for jordin sparks T shirt last night, but they wouldn’t let me.” “American Idol” runner-up Blake Lewis, on 17-year-old competition winner Sparks
“Age has been redefined.” Frieda Birnbaum, 60, of New Jersey, who now holds the record as the oldest U.S. woman to give birth to twins
Reader Will Bridges of Kingwood, Texas, submitted this quote:
“There is a smell in the air. We have not completely identified it, but we are trying to make sure it isn’t the smell of injustice.” King Downing, of the ACLU, on delays in the trials of the “Jena Six”—black Louisiana teens who allegedly beat a white classmate after nooses were hung at their high school. They face up to 100 years in jail.
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2023-01-18” author: “Loretta Doyle”
“There has been no water and electricity since Sunday, and we don’t know what is happening until we get in and get the wounded out.” John Holmes, the U.N. under-secretary-general for humanitarian affairs, on the nearly 30,000 Palestinian refugees living in Lebanon who began to flee their camp after the Lebanese military attacked Islamic militants in the area
“It could be a bloody—it could be a very difficult August.” President George W. Bush, on what is in store for U.S. troops in Iraq in the months before a “progress report” due in September
“They told us, ‘We’re sorry to inform you the body we found has been identified as Joe’.” Debbie Anzack, of Torrance, Calif., on discovering that her nephew Pfc. Joseph Anzack Jr., 20, one of three U.S. soldiers missing after an ambush outside Baghdad on May 12, had been found dead
“I was at a funeral Saturday, and when the monsignor greeted me he said, ‘My God, Bart, you have to do something about these gas prices’.” Michigan Rep. Bart Stupak, on a bill that would make gasoline price-gouging a federal offense
“I don’t know why, I just don’t like the toes separated.” Boston Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek, on the five-toed socks that have become popular among his teammates, thanks to two new Japanese pitchers, Daisuke Matsuzaka and Hideki Okajima
“Do not call me a coward, because No. 1, I sit here every single day, open my heart and tell people what I believe.” TV personality Elisabeth Hasselbeck, during a squabble with cohost Rosie O’Donnell over the war in Iraq on ABC’s “The View”
“I was trying to wear a vote for jordin sparks T shirt last night, but they wouldn’t let me.” “American Idol” runner-up Blake Lewis, on 17-year-old competition winner Sparks
“Age has been redefined.” Frieda Birnbaum, 60, of New Jersey, who now holds the record as the oldest U.S. woman to give birth to twins
Reader Will Bridges of Kingwood, Texas, submitted this quote:
“There is a smell in the air. We have not completely identified it, but we are trying to make sure it isn’t the smell of injustice.” King Downing, of the ACLU, on delays in the trials of the “Jena Six”—black Louisiana teens who allegedly beat a white classmate after nooses were hung at their high school. They face up to 100 years in jail.
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2023-01-01” author: “Marsha Armagost”
“We suck less.” Sirius Satellite Radio Inc. CEO Mel Karmazin, seeking to placate shareholder concerns by comparing his company’s lagging performance with that of rival XM
“I don’t have time now for films and photos that require me to constantly cut my hair, beard and mustache and get spruced up every day.” Cuban President Fidel Castro, who is recovering from intestinal surgeries, on why he’s not yet ready to make public appearances
“I don’t know why, I just don’t like the toes separated.” Boston Red Sox catcher Jason Varitek, on the five-toed socks that have become popular among his teammates since the team’s two new Japanese pitchers, Daisuke Matsuzaka and Hideki Okajima, introduced them
“I would be concerned about a lot of other things than whether or not a female shark can get a date for an evening.” Researcher Robert E. Heuter, on the discovery that a hammerhead shark had reproduced without mating. Some scientists fear asexual reproduction could decrease genetic diversity, leaving sharks more susceptible to disease.
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2022-12-24” author: “Raul Rodriguez”
“Wolfowitz’s actions have impeded the ability of the World Bank to carry out its critical mission of alleviating global poverty.” Sen. Christopher Dodd, on the bank president’s resignation over his role in the promotion of his girlfriend, a bank employee
“What part of illegal does the Senate not understand? Any plan that rewards illegal behavior is amnesty.” California Rep. Brian Bilbray, a Republican, on a bipartisan immigration bill that would offer illegal immigrants renewable visas allowing indefinite stays in the United States and award citizenship based on work and education
“Soldiers will say: ‘If it’s too dangerous for Prince Harry, then it’s too dangerous for me. Is his life worth more than mine?’ Well, from a political point of view, yes. But from a morale point of view the answer is no.” Former British soldier Charles Heyman, on the young royal being barred from serving in Iraq
“I heard her recite ‘I Have a Dream’ on several occasions. She made it real, made it a part of her. I think her father would’ve been very, very proud of her.” Rep. John Lewis, on Yolanda King, Dr. Martin Luther King’s oldest child, who died last week
“They said it might be a bandwidth issue, but they created the Internet, so I don’t know what the problem is here.” YouTube CEO Chad Hurley, on the military’s decision to block his site and MySpace from Department of Defense computers for soldiers overseas
“We want to get these two whales back to San Francisco Bay so they can exit beneath the Golden Gate Bridge back to the ocean.” Marine-mammal veterinarian Frances Gulland, on the humpbacks that wandered into the busy Sacramento River delta
“Paris finding Jesus in a fetal position with a half-eaten bologna sandwich would probably get $200,000.” Photo agency co-owner Frank Griffin, on the going rate for images of Paris Hilton behind bars. The celebrity will spend at least 23 days in prison.
“This is indecent exposure where it doesn’t belong.” Theresa Toney, of Brattleboro, Vt., where public nudity remains legal, and popular
Reader Derek Barr of Moorefield, W.Va., submitted this quote:
“I didn’t see it coming, but I sure felt it roll over my head. It feels really strange to have a truck run over your head.” Ryan Lipscomb, a graduate student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, on being hit by a delivery truck after he fell from his bike. Lipscomb, who wore a helmet, suffered only a concussion.
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2022-12-19” author: “Shirley Mattson”
“I hated everything he stood for, [but] Jerry Falwell and I became good friends.” —American pornography mogul Larry Flynt, on the prominent and controversial evangelist, who died last week
“No one wants this property, of course, because they know we’re about to be invaded.” —Venezuelan farmer John Hines Freyre, on how President Hugo Chávez’s forced land-redistribution plan has made it hard to sell even the finest agricultural plots
“In the 21st century, it’s not just about tanks and artillery.” —NATO spokesman James Appathurai, on the organization’s offer to help Estonia fend off what it claims are Kremlin-sponsored attacks on its Web sites in alleged retaliation for the removal of a Soviet statue in the Estonian city of Tallinn
“Paris finding Jesus in a fetal position with a half-eaten bologna sandwich would probably get $200,000.” —Frank Griffin, co-owner of a photo agency, on the going rate for images of Paris Hilton behind bars. Hilton will spend at least 23 days in jail for violating her probation.
title: “Perspectives Quotes In The News” ShowToc: true date: “2022-12-19” author: “Molly Obrien”
“Population has not been taken seriously enough in the climate debate.” Chris Rapley, incoming head of London’s Science Museum, suggesting there is something to China’s claim that its one-child policy helps fight global warming by saving 1.3 billion tons of carbon per year
“Jiminy!” Idaho Senator Larry Craig, emphatically denying that he is gay, after pleading guilty to disorderly conduct for allegedly soliciting sex from an undercover cop in a men’s room at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport
“Let’s look at the world and ask ourselves the question, ‘Should we be naive to the point of being the only ones not to defend our interests when all the others are defending theirs?’” French President Nicolas Sarkozy, on his plans to “play the game of globalization” by adopting more business-friendly policies
“In Japan, tears are so important.” Mark Buckton, editor in chief of Sumo Fan Magazine, on Asashoryu, a grand champion of Mongolian ancestry who has been harshly criticized for refusing (unrepentantly) to follow strict sumo-wrestling code
Quotation sources top to bottom: Reuters, Chicago Tribune, Globe and Mail, New York Times, Reuters
