09 October 2009

Definition

Some of the plaster ceiling in the city building in Elkhart collapsed in September, and traces of lead paint were found in it. According to an article in the paper today,

"[The Mayor] said the city is being proactive to correct the problem."

Now, I'm not an expert on all things linguistic, but doesn't reactive more accurately describe this situation?

My mind turns to The Simpsons (episode 4F12).

04 October 2009

Copy Editing Fail

Another oopsie courtesy of the Elkhart Truth:
"These are clearly not racist issues," Moore said. "These issues have to do with principals."
When I was in elementary school, I was pretty sure the principles had too much authority. I'd rather not cede to them any authority over issues to boot.