http://www.msnbc.com/news/567424.asp

Most of the time, the system DOES work. Blanton faces four consecutive life sentences for the bombing.

The only remaining issue will be whether Blanton can get the verdict overturned on appeal because the prosecution used some old tapes which were illegally made at the time. They'd be legal evidence now, but at the time they were originally made (back in the 60's), they were illegal.

That pretty much nailed his coffin, though -- he was heard laughing and joking about "bombs" on the tape.

-- Anonymous, May 02, 2001

Answers

Stephen -

On a related "southern" issue, what is your opinion of Mississippi voting to keep the southern battle flag in its state flag?

(I hadn't seen you comment on it - apologies for asking if you already have.)

-- Anonymous, May 02, 2001

Johnny, I have mixed emotions about that flag.

On the one hand, it *IS* part of Southern history and heritage. On the other hand, so many hate groups have appropriated that flag as a symbol that it doesn't have a very good image.

In this particular case, though, the people of Miss chose to keep it under the democratic process, so they get to keep it. That's as it should be.

One could wish they'd moved on (I personally like the "Stars and Bars" -- the Confederate National Flag -- better than the battle flag, anyway, but that's an aside), but that was their choice.

-- Anonymous, May 03, 2001