Common Sense Isn't Dead Yet!

Photo from Times-Pic

The Benedictine Monks are doing a happy dance -- they'll be able to continue their casket business!

I love it!  This afternoon, Federal District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr., (how's that for a southern name!) ruled that the Louisiana embalming and funeral directors statute administered by the State Funeral Board is nothing more than unconstitutional protectionism of the funeral industry!

I mean, seriously -- threatening to jail a bunch of monks for making and selling simple wood caskets?!?!  Stevie Wonder, and our little Rosie, could see through that protectionist scheme. 

Of course, the Funeral Board plans to appeal, claiming there is an adequate rational basis for the law.  Rational from their business perspective, perhaps.  But rational in the real world?  Not a chance.  Let's hope the Fifth Circuit doesn't buy their argument that the law is designed to protect consumers.

It  looks like the monks can put that casket for Common Sense (and the Constitution) back into storage -- for awhile, at least.  Happy Day!!

Wonders Are Ceaseless Indeed

FINALLY got our income tax refund check from Louisiana for 2009. Not only did they not reduce the refund after "reviewing" our return since last October, but they also kicked in a little interest (very little ) for our "patience."

You'd better keep an eye to the sky -- there may be flying pigs aloft.