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Fourth Quarter of 2007 October 2007 ... November 2007 ... December 2007
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10/06//07 The
US is still number one, in arms sales to poor and developing
nations that is. We have what it takes
(100107g) Still
the "black sites" where torture takes place exist and the
"special" interrogations continue, even Alberto,
"the dickless wonder" Gonzales seemed to say it was "A OK"
by him. (100507a) Many
of the persons released from Guantanamo are certainly not
the "worst of the worst" as they've been billed.
Sometimes reporters show up when they land in their
homelands to find shopkeepers, US allies, a victim of arson
or an errant bomb. (100507b) Privatizing and outsourcing war is the "latest and
greatest craze" and one that has significant dangers when
billions
upon billions are paid out and no one oversees the
effectiveness of the programs, projects and expenditures.
(093007c) Read
this disparaging overview of the Great Hole's attempt to
compare his "efforts" with those of previous generations,
especially the WW2 folks. It is a sad, sad
comparison, which can only be made by fucked up jackasses
who are so possessed by idiot philosophy that they couldn't
pour water out of a boot if the instructions were written on
its sole. (093007d) Germany
and France both speak up in harmony with the US regarding
Iran. Now all we need are the other two "old colonizers" of
the world, England and Spain, to sign on-and we'll
have another chance for a "good old fashioned war
(092607h) While the US backs EU sanctions for Iran
both
seem to be doing business with Iran; Germany says it is
hypocrisy but wants the business too.
(092707d) Why was Petraeus the front man for the report? Why
wasn't he sworn in before making his presentation? How has
the "Great Hole" changed commanders and described how well
we're doing? (092507d) Greenspan
said the Iraq war was about oil. Then he is
trashed in the media, then he backpedals the comment
written in his book. Then we have the other evidence
that what he said was exactly the truth, but which our media
doesn't want to hear or carry to the public
(092607c) Bush's speech to the UN. Oddly
enough he talks as if he supports human rights. You'll
notice he doesn't mention Abu Ghraib, Guantanamo, the "Black
Sites" in Europe, Iraq, Afghanistan, the manipulations in
Somalia, our support of the most repressive regimes such as
Myanmar, Saudi Arabia and others.
(0902607e) Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Lebanon -
Israel - Palestine - Gaza Lebanon: Deadlock in Lebanon's selection of a president.
Threats
and hugs abound in this wild ride-the next date to watch is
10/23/07, when they try again. (092507a) Greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Turkey - Syria
- Jordan - Egypt - Saudi Arabia Syria: The
Syrian side of the recent Israeli "attack" "raid" whatever
it was. (092207b) In
another article the attack was described as successful, that
satellite photos show a wrecked site of some kind
and the speculation is that Syria is part of a
new "axis of evil" as far as Israel is concerned.
(092207c) The Israeli raid on Syria, even more discussion
and this one seems to make the most sense, however
the "nuclear story" is bigger news and fits the agenda of
some (092407a) The
Israeli raid into Syria, another take on the situation and
some new speculations (092507e) Speculations about how
the Israeli attack into Syria was done, this article claims
that Iran is paying attention and has reason to,
but who knows (100407h) Greater Islamic Region: Western Theater: Saudi
Arabia - Iraq - Iran - Pakistan - Afghanistan Iraq: Kurdistan
makes more moves to "go its own way" and how!
(100407e) Death
counts are "down" at this time in Iraq. The problem
with the figures is that no one has been keeping them
especially well, ever. Then too, the people have been
separated for the most part in Baghdad. Still less, is less,
and the downside is that this makes it appear as though
there is some measure of success-will it be enough to have
the Dimwad in Chef think Iran should be a "go"?
(100207c) The
two top Shia honchos sit down and hammer out an accord.
What this portends for the Iraqi government,
such as it might be called, and the US occupation is open to
question. (100607b) IMHO it seems that the Iraqi
resistance may be taking a lesson from those in
Lebanon, which is to say making a point of
killing legislators who do not share their perspectives.
(092607g) OK, you do the math. According
to this and much earlier statements we've already killed or
captured all the insurgents, a couple of times.
(092707e) The recent Blackwater incident has gotten coverage
but
the military fears that the ripple effect will be worse than
Abu Ghraib-will there be some oversight of these
hired guns or what? (092607b) More
on the "Blackwater Incident" the cannons are
loose and take out anyone that happens to be around, or so
it seems. (100507c) Iran: Iran's
reaction to a US detention of an Iranian in while he was in
Kurdistan makes for sparks, troubles and a
heightening of the fever that consumes the Iraqi government.
(093007a) Here
are some details on this affair, so called.
(100107d) And hey the Brits are on board with it, now we
CAN'T call them weenies. And
maybe the French and Israeli's are in on the game as well.
That would be "sweet" wouldn't it? All the
capitalistic warmongering empire and ex empire builders
getting together for a blast (100107f) And
here is Sy Hersh speaking on the topic… more
than anyone needs to know I guess, but then no one, that
matters, is listening. (100107e) Sometimes
local papers pick up the story, bombers
practicing instrumental landings similar to those that were
done before the Iraq invasion. (100207a) Now that Lieberman
and his friend Ky have set up "cover" for an attack on
Iran, other, rational, persons have set up a
counter move. Will it be in time? (100207b) Iran is off, Iran is on. If
stupidity is the deciding factor then "hold on to your
collective hats And so: Even
good Old Sy Hersh, he seems to think Iran is on.
(092407f)War
with Iran in the Spring of 08? Maybe sooner? Maybe …
maybe what? (092907b) The
decision in Iran is delayed, at least the one by the
Security Council. No one knows that the
"Gutless Wonder" in Chief will be doing during the
upcoming weeks. (092907a) Some
think the Senate in this action has opened the door to the
possibility of attacking Iran. By declaring portions
of its military terrorist organizations it could allow
attacks on those forces, most of which just happen to be
inside Iran. (092607a) Ahmadinejad's visit to the UN and disallowed visit to
Ground Zero is just the sort of red meat the war
party wants. The
facts don't matter, nor does history or our own fouled up
deeds … read on (092407b) We, the
US
and its rulers, give him the platform to speak to millions
beyond Iran's borders and they listen to him and
like what they hear. (092407g) Ahmadinejad's
trip to Columbia, an impression of the circus, I
mean event. (092507b) Iranians don't understand why we pay so much mind to him,
when
he, in fact, does not wield the same power as the presidents
of other nations. (092407h) Pakistan Pakistan
at 60 is not a particularly pretty sight. Problems
big and small are pressing enough to be co-opted,
suppressed, bought off or strenuously ignored
(100507e) Pakistan
puts down opposition to some good extent. Mr. M. seems
miffed. (092507f) Suicide
bomber strikes in Pakistan and the article says fighting
"rages" across NW Pakistan for some time now.
(093007i) And the Greater Islamic Southern Theater: Sudan
- Ethiopia - Somalia, etc.: Somalia: The
condition of the people in Somalia deteriorates.
Starvation is rampant and this whole scenario is a
direct result of our Jackass in Chief's idiotic fascination
with the delusion of being capable (092607f)\ Sudan: Sudan
is at risk of even more fighting. The peace deal between the
north and the south seems quite strained.
China supports the government in Khartoum while western
"interests" support peace deals that interfere with
"business as usual" (100607a) And the Greater Islamic Eastern Theater: -
India - Russia - China - South East Asia Russia: Why
is Putin so well liked in Russia?
(100207d) India: The US/ India nuke deal has some "blowback" for
India's prime minister.
It seems the US wants to make money of the deal, no surprise
there, but also wants to play the "India Democracy" card
against China's growing influence in the
region. (092907c) Myanmar: Monks
get to see San Suu Kyi, the woman who has taken
the lead in opposing her governments idiocy
(092207d) Myanmar
in the news as protests swell, at first, only to be brutally
beaten down. Of course the illegal government has
the trump card foreign supporters lusting after lucrative
oil and gas resources. So those who could 'choke" the
government are feeding it instead. Oh, and the US sends an
envoy and locks up a few million dollars worth of assets,
THAT will do the trick! (093007e) Some talk of the weakness of the dictatorial regime in
power as the
heavy handed response comes amid a flurry of miscalculations
of that self same dictator and his mysterious
cronies. (093007h) Myanmar
the deaths are in the thousands with many disappearances and
lockups. (100107a) Reports
that satellite images show the oppression and violent
governmental response. (100107b) Bird
Flu virus mutates and becomes "friendlier" to
humans. Probably this is not a good thing.
(100407f) Climate change, lots of smallish
disasters all add up to something much bigger as "the
change" begins to percolate through the "electronic wall"
that surrounds us all. (100407g) How
does a rainforest go "up in smoke"? With "10,000 points of
fire" as it were. (100507d) The
US west may have seen its "best" rainfall rates.
With climate change taking a prominent position on
the economic horizon, it behooves us to say "Go east young
farmer, go east" (092307g) The talk of "tipping
points" is given some airing, however the Arctic ice
coverage reaches a new low. The article says that dramatic
changes are not in the offing, but then often
times enough, in the last few years, such predictions have
been shredded by new evidence annually, it seems
(093007b) This story was spotted before, but this has, at least,
some details. A
"North American Union" NAU is being formed and in so doing
at least challenging if not ending US
sovereignty? (092307h) More
on the plan for a North American Union,
Community, or whatever to supplant the
sovereignty of the US. (092507c) The follow up coup to complete the last
one,
loosing 700 years of human rights and speculation that the
dangers to this nation only grow if an attack on Iran
proceeds no matter its result. (092607d) Dated by a few days, at this writing,
this story outlines the "bubble economy" we've been enjoying
for a few decades, how it came to be, what
its problems are and who is to blame. (092407i)
The
housing market's weakness continues with sales and prices
falling. I read in another article that more of
the same may becoming. (092707a) Yet another example, as
if we needed one, of
how the sub-prime mess, which was made in the USA, has
demonstrated "globalization" this time we travel to
Switzerland where more billions are lost.
(093007j) A
surge of Nuclear Reactors being planned? It
wouldn't happen if not for the US government putting a
guarantee on the investments so "no one" looses out if the
loans default for "some unknown reason" sounds like good old
fashioned socialism to me, uh, I meant capitalism, of course
where one takes risks to secure benefits and the government
butts out. (093007g) If
you don't like Rush Limbaugh read this bit about
"phony soldiers" then tell this joke: "What is the
difference between Rush Limbaugh and the Hindenburg? The
answer: Well, one is an over inflated NAZI gasbag and the
other is a blimp …" (100107h) How do congressional Democraps do it doggystyle?
They sit up and beg for months and months before rolling
over and playing dead. They give up on getting the
President's Daily Briefings they were once so hot on.
(100407a) Meanwhile
U.S. Attorneys Investigation Waits on House Leadership
(100407b And they
don't seem to care about really cleaning up the Gonzales
mess and holding anyone's feet to any fire.
(100407c) And
what about the "phase 2" investigation agreed upon, promised
and now being ignored-and after all that hoopla and
all (100407d) For
those ignorant jackasses who sport those "support our
troops" decals on their souped-up SUVs maybe they should
actually DO something such as helping some of the veterans
who are going bankrupt right under the fat greasy
snotty nose of Mr "Who Cares" our Dimbulb in Chief.
(093007f) Maybe
the story will be called "RatherGate"
(092707b) Our
"Great Hole" in chief gets caught out in a lie to the
American people, how about that. Read it here
(092707c) A
sampler of how the politicized media is micromanaged
to the point that an interviewer seems to be reading from a
"Bushist" script. (092407d) More, much more, on the Greenspan
flap about oil being the reason for the Iraq war and
the toppling of Saddam (092307e) Part
two,
So, it IS NEWS, yes? (092307f) Pappy
Bush, li'l Bush, Harriet Meirs, the Vietnam "excuse" and Dan
Rather's case-what a mess. (092207e) The Dan
Rather "Tased and Confused" story. How
he ruined himself, his nation and by extension the world,
ruined a confidential source and walked away with millions
as did another shady character… but Georgie
boy got out of Nam and that's all that counts, isn't it?
(092407j) Here
are the basics six nuclear weapons were loaded onto B 52s
and flown from North Dakota's Minot AFB to Barksdale AFB in
Louisiana. (092307a) part two, the
work life and a question, "why the mix up?"
(092307b) Part three, an
uneventful flight and then "let's go to lunch"
(092307c) Part four, the
blame is passed around and I hope that all is
well. I had wondered, when the story broke,
whether or not covert movement of nuclear weapons were part
of a preparation for "dealing" with Iran.
(092307d) A blink into the past. Back in the 80's the "holy
warriors" fought Soviet aggression in Afghanistan. But
that was not really the case, completely anyway. Hear
Zbigniew Brzezinski say it in a nutshell
(092407c) Good news? It seems like DNA will set you free.
Unseemly and large numbers of convictions are being
overturned around the nation as DNA evidence proves convicts
innocent. Just a word to those who STILL advocate
the death penalty. (100107i)
A
hundred years of war? It is being looked at. Read
at your own risk (101107c) Back to the Blackwater Massacre we go. Soldiers
first on the scene say it was an unprovoked
slaughter. (101207f) There
is hard evidence of that it was murder from dead cold
facts (101207g)The
US military gets pragmatic and tries to clean up the
mess. (101207h) Ahmadinajad's "week in the west" was interesting he was
slammed by many, one way or another, but, apparently
unbeknownst to the US media, he was using them to play to a
wider audience, or at least that was the effect.
He is, therefore, viewed much more positively by a
wider range of persons than heretofore. (101007i) Here is an article describing a case where someone
in the government released information that aided and
abetted the enemy. Lives are at stake. And yet our "Decider
and his baloney brained chimps" do absolutely
nothing about it. I SURE am glad we have a "tough
repuglican administration" (100907i) Some
say the Brits were "driven out" others say it was "politics
as usual" still others think people are fed up with
a thankless effort that has proven too costly. The
beneficiary, of course, is Iran. (100907h) Even more on the Israeli air raid into Syria.
It seems the nuclear theory is getting a boost with an
additional claim that North Koreans were killed or wounded
at the site. (100707i) Petraeus
says Iran is creating problems, even their
ambassador to Iraq is a Quds member, and thus a terrorist.
(100707g) Sounds like we're making peace overtures to
me, right! Meanwhile, The
Brits view US accusations of Iran's meddling in Iraq with "a
pinch of salt" not exactly a vow of support is
it. Yet Dickless "the wonder hog" Cheney is
mobilizing private "money men" to persuade when logic and
reason fail. (100707h) So maybe we WILL start calling the m
weenies? This is not the first report of the US "change of
vision" in the Middle East, now
we hear less and less about democratic reform, more and more
about building alliances with the Sunni regimes, absolutist
led nations and a bottom up approach in Iraq where Sunni
factions are bought off, uh, I mean brought
into the fold-all because we deposed a Sunni secularist,
Saddam, and allowed Shia factions to grab the Baghdad
government and give Shia Iran an inroad to grabbing power in
Iraq. Can anyone spell "back peddling" or "dumbbell in
chief"? (100807b) Of course the "fly in that
ointment" will be what happens to Palestine, Israel and
Lebanon … Oh well. Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Lebanon -
Israel - Palestine - Gaza Palestine: Another
chunk of land being grabbed from the
Palestinians? A sorry state of affairs that
only will add to the woes of both sides, eventually.
(101007d) The dissenter's view of the thing. Thanks
to Mr. Dumbbell in Chief we'll have more of a knot to
unravel, if we ever start to try and do so.
(101007e) Gaza: Technology developments
in rocketry give Hamas, or whoever, more range and Israel
makes threats … sounds like progress to
me. (100707f) Lebanon: Lebanon
oh Lebanon, where for art thou Lebanon … a
paralyzed central government is unable to lead the nation
while time is running out on peace (101107j) Part two:
the
hints of a civil war to come? We can only hope
not. (101107k) Greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Turkey - Syria
- Jordan - Egypt Syria: That
"mysterious" strike into Syria keeps on popping up in the
news. What WAS it all about? Well, maybe
that doesn't matter, what it because what it IS about now is
whether or how US policy toward North Korea and Syria might
change, typical: forget the truth, let's go for action
(101007h) Syria
makes an "official" presentation at the "attack site" for
foreign journalists the message: "there's nothing
here to see, move along now" (101107c) And yet another
theory, maybe
it was just some politician's way of waving his dick around
to see if anyone can hear it flapping. He wants
to move up and this is his "dance of succession"
(101107e) Turkey: Something of a "sticky wicket" old boy,
it seems the Turks are up for a bit of a romp in Kurdish
Iraq, the Kurds are not having it. The US, in
the midst of shaming the Turks over " a bit of genocide"
wants the Turks to lay off. One wonders what will happen
next. (101007b) Turkey
recalls their ambassador to the US over the Armenian
issue…sounds like ANOTHER step in this administration's
direction of chaos and asinine stupidity
(101107a) because Bush the Dumber has lost so much "pull"
that he can't negotiate well. Not that the truth should be
hidden So
what is up with the US government giving the word genocide
some credence when it comes to the Armenian slaughter of
1915? Does the 'timing" have anyone thinking that we
might be letting the Turks give Iraq just a bit more chaos
so that the oil therein can be more effectively secured?
(101207d) under cover of chaos? And the
ADL gets embroiled in the controversy when it too, denies
the Armenian genocide's existence. How cool is
that? (101207e And
there may be repercussions for our "efforts" in Iraq if the
thing is passed by the full house. (101107x) Says
here that
the Turks are planning of something of a stay once they do
decide to "go in" and that decision can come as
early as next week. (101107b) Says here that the
PKK is already taking action to make the incursion costly to
the Turks. The Turks say they can "go into Iraq"
because the US did and THEY didn't ask anyone.
(101207b) Greater Islamic Region: Western Theater: Saudi
Arabia - Iraq - Iran - Pakistan - Afghanistan Afghanistan: Is there progress in Afghanistan? Well, not really.
We've
been increasing the troop levels steadily, casualties are up
as are attacks and other engagements as the US expands its
main base. They talk about 10 years? One wonders
… (100707j) Although
the annual Taliban spring offensive for 2007 did not "do it"
the next is being prepared, may come in a matter of weeks
as fighting in Pakistan is on the upsurge
(100607c) From an article a month old: indicates that
the
reason they currently enjoy some successes is because
they've integrated various factions, resolved some
philosophical disagreements, integrated some disgruntled
Pakistani military and have studied how the Vietnamese and
Tamil rebels "did their thing". (100607d) Part
two, the
plan now, is to knock out the Pakistani
government. Only time will tell if they can
succeed. (100607e) Iraq: We've Won! We've Won! How we've, uh I mean, the US, uh
I mean the
greedy bastards behind the scenes have "won" in
Iraq. (101207c) Well, things ARE shitty! And
I agree with this writer who talks about
how Pelosi has "ended the Iraq war." It is a good read,
if a bit volatile, though I should talk
(100907l) One touted goal of
the surge was to buy time for the Iraqi government to
perform some reconciliation, well, that seems
to be off the table and the removal places our "strategy" at
a big time loss (100907c) Coalition
of the willing has dwindled and dwindled and soon it will
just be US. No problem, those others apparently
did not do much, that's the word from the US military
anyway, so thanks to all you willing folks …
(100907a Of course the few days covered in this accounting are
only part of the story, but
what a story it is … Iraq's day to day
existence. (100607h) But there are upside stories today: A clear road upon which Iraqi's can flee their land?
The
highway from Baghdad to Jordan seems to be open and busy
with flowing traffic. This is a sign of progress to be sure.
It is welcome too. (100807c) Another
related story shows positive change as well, at least in
terms of a
zero casualty count for a unit of some 200 marines in what
was a hotbed of resistance. (100807d) Iran: Al Quds Day in Iran, also celebrated elsewhere,
had hundreds
of thousands chanting for death to the US and
Israel. (100707c) Iranians as terrorists, the
flimsy grounds upon with the accusation stand are analyzed
withal. (100607f) Part two, has some of
the
counterproductive consequences outlined, clearly the cost of
this choice by the US outweighs the benefits,
however that is only true if we've any intention of dealing
with them and treating with them. If we ARE going to attack
then all these points are moot. (100607g) SOMEONE
is trying to knock the Pimple Assed Cheney back a few pegs
with regards to his wet dream for Iran. (100907d)
Meanwhile a report
of "heightened tensions" overall between Iran and the US
(100907e) Pakistan: Washington
to Waziristan the link is fast and the fighting furious
as deal and wheels turn and spin the news.
(101107i) Because of a boycott by opposition candidates,
Mr.
M. of Pakistan, eases through an "election" as casualties
mount in what would, anywhere else, be called a civil war or
revolution. When one of the helicopters escorting
him in his crashes it reminds everyone, the US included,
about the fragility of depending on one man for stability in
an unstable land. (100807a) Pakistan
military battles rebels in fierce fire fights using jet
aircraft. Mr. M's hold on his presidency can be
challenged in the courts and this IS the good news.
(100907b) And the Greater Islamic Eastern Theater: -
India - Russia - China - South East Asia How
arms deal undermine our relationship with Pakistan …
(101107l) And
India for that matter…(101107m) Myanmar: If
you are going to boycott an oil company you could choose
Chevron because of its support for the Myanmar
regime-it IS legal but now, well, the excuse
is that pulling out would only let someone else in on the
blood money so they might as well stay on… I know, I
know … (100707e) Russia: Russia
does not support any rash move regarding Iran.
They are still playing a balancing act with regard to
this situation. Eventually they'll have to either put up or
shut up. (101007a) Russia
and the US do not see eye to eye on several things
and so some talks are in order. I wonder whether
this will be a talk or a talking to. If it is the latter, I
wonder who will be on the receiving end. (101007c)
Probably it was not what the US wanted as it turns out.
With
disagreements getting the headlines the real kicker is the
last sentence. It has me ask: "Then WHY did you go
forward?" (101207a) Faux news says there is polar ice cap melting, that
global warming is a debatable idea, but
what "is fact" is the potential oil reserves that need to be
claimed before anyone else does, thus the "race is
on" (101307a) What
is "Ecological Debt Day"? Find out more, disturbing as it
is, it is still informative. (101307b)
In
some places, such as Australia, global warming and climate
change have already begun their squeeze on the "business as
usual" politics and awareness for that continent
nation. (101307c) The words "embarrassment" and British Government" go
together so often that this story is not news. What
is is the deforestation taking place in the Congo when the
purpose of the World Bank was just the opposite.
(100707a) A
similar tragedy unfolds in the Amazon as development ramps
up and protected areas and protective agreements or
treaties are ignored. (100707b) A
shocking report from Greenland indicates the melting is
accelerating making even the most recent studies
obsolete. Time has come today. (100907k) Human
Rights Watch in 2006 condemned several nations for the very
"interrogation" methods the US is now using. Back
then, of course, some in the US trumpeted those misbehaving
nations as being "bad". (100907f) The
Damned Democraps are caught again bending over, grabbing
their ankles and hoping this time Bush will USE the Jergen's
lotion as a promised roll back is laid to rest-as
tough talk on eavesdropping is remembered only long enough
to be ignored. (100907g) Here is a disgusting sampler concerning a
Reich wing set of nut jobs smearing a 12 year old who
happened to have something the "Great Toilet in Chief"
doesn't: balls. (101107g) A
very brief look at the "fake news" that dominates our
"news" (101007g) And then: The
top 25 most under reported stories of 2006 &endash;2007. As
a quiz taker and something of a news hound I was pleased
that I recalled reading 22 of them. That's not bad,
but what is, is the news itself, what a mess
(101107f) The flap over continuing torture.
Do the damned Dems have the guts or will to make a stand?
Well, it IS the only tactic they haven't tried-of course
that requires a spine … (100707d) Going
back to the nukes that went on a joyride and were "missing"
for hours on end, one might read this article
and see how likely it is that a simple accident occurred and
what questions need to be answered, not that this
administration will deign to respond, assuming, probably
rightly, that the citizenry won't pay real attention and
that they can go about their dirty business as usual
(100907j) The
modern day King Coal has its way in West Virginia as
hundreds of communities and towns disappear and others are
trapped in a death struggle with the vast monster
our Jackass in Chief encourages to feed (101007f)
A
change in the "odyssey routes" used to develop western
recruits into trained attackers who'll target Europe
and the west. (101407f) Meanwhile: Our
"Great Jackass in Mouth" talks about the Iranian nuclear
issue being a threat which could result in WW3, I
agree, but only if we attack them at this time or any time
soon. (101707b) Luckily our "Great Hole" does not know what he says, does
not make sense, and can be written off. However
note the movement of the "Goal Posts" so to speak regarding
Iranian nuke ability. (101907d Just how is it that we've shot our wad and our foot while
the latter is in our mouth such that
our enemies are coming together against us in the Middle
East, the "Great Hole" has a role in this sea change
of a really big mess. (1017 07e) Another
"black site" being investigated by the Brits, Diego Garcia
certainly is far enough away from anyone and or
anything so it MAY BE a "party house" after all
(101907c) Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Lebanon -
Israel - Palestine - Gaza Some
evidence of various sides getting ready for conflict in the
Middle East. (101707j) Israel: Outside of the fact that Israel
makes a move that enrages Palestinians and alerts Muslims
around the world and a peace conference it quite near I
guess the timing of this "move" is suspect, but
really it is a "whatever" story for all that, no?
(101407a) ANOTHER story on the Israeli strike into Syria. This
is another
description of the target as being a nuclear generator, not
missiles, not a uranium processing station, not a shipment
of "some supplies" meant for Hamas and not any of the other
items either. Oh, Iran was SUPPOSED to take
note of the attack (101407d) and Part two: more vague
"details" (101407e MORE on the Israeli strike into Syria.
There
is a story from a "mole" and pictures of a building. The
details in this story both agree and disagree with previous
stories. Oh well … (101907a) MORE, even
MORE, preemptive
is a word that is used and Hillary supported the bombing of
whatever it was. (101507a) Greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Turkey - Syria -
Jordan -Egypt Turkey: Just
some background on the issues between Kurds and Turks that
are the basis for "disagreements"
(101907e) The
current thinking about an incursion, the PKK, Kurdish
Rebels, may be at a bit of a loss as Turkish Kurds receive
some improved benefits. In this view the recent attacks
are meant to provoke a Turkish incursion and thus bolster
their waning prospects. In another view the Turks need to
proceed to "end it all". (102007e) Part two,
US policies, the "Armenian Resolution" and bungling in Iraq
have helped, guess who, Iran. (102007f)
Essentially the Turks are willing to go the "extra mile"
even if that means crossing the US purposes and plans in
Iraq to secure their security. And
the legal basis for Turkish attacks into Iraq seem to exist
already. I guess that will make lawyers happy
(101907f) Just
a short note on the Armenian genocide. There seems to be
enough research on the matter. The problem is how
its relevancy is being "played" by elements in the US, the
region in question and by whom and for what purposes. I have
my ideas but such are only speculation. (101507e) While
repuglicans claim the Armenian resolution is a Democratic
torpedo aimed at Iraq they seem to forget they build
identical torpedoes, and not to long ago,
complaining that they couldn't deliver so Hastert decides to
sell him self and his influence for a measly 500,000 to "tip
the scales of justice a bit" (101607f) You
know it seems that Bush the dumber has so bumbled in his dry
drunk way that the resolution regarding Armenian genocide in
the WW1 era is likely to pass. Not that I disagree
with its passage, but the Damned Dems seem to be making
political hay with this, especially in light of statements
from Turkey that they might "mess with" our military
presence in their country-this would impact our operations
in Iraq. Is this the Dems way of getting the US forces out
of Iraq? Maybe, if things do go badly because of this there
will be lots and lots of blame to go around.
(101407b) Maybe
the "genocide vote" will not pass. Maybe the grumbling from
Turkey did the job and the Dems don't want to risk
anything, well, there is nothing new in that part of
the equation anyway. (101707g) Again not that I
think the resolution has good timing, and not that it
wouldn't be a good thing to pass. There are pro's and
con's. Turkey
and Iran form a cooperative effort against the Kurds.
This is not the first time they've done this but
this time around "more is on the table" (101607a)
The Turks, as expected by many apparently,
decided
that incursions into Iraq are hunky-dory.
(101707a) Greater Islamic Region: Western Theater: Saudi
Arabia - Iraq - Iran - Pakistan - Afghanistan Iraq: The
daily report on Iraq shows some signs of "cooling off" a
lessening of violence perhaps is evident but the
changes seem due more to bribery than to force of arms.
(101801g) What
kind of non-combat deaths are "surging" in Iraq these days?
(101707d) Abizaid
said the Iraqi war was about oil. Enough said guys, enough
(101607d) Joe "the bastard" Biden, or "brickbat" as he is
known to those he fondles, has pushed for and gotten a
"non-binding"
resolution to divvy up Iraq and so make some sense out of
what we've done, unfortunately there are problems
with this, but that is no surprise. (101507 The
US is almost ready to declare a victory over Al Qaida in
Iraq. This may be a bit of good news for The
Great Dumbell but AQI only made up about 5 to 10% of the
"action" according to numerous reports, analyses and so
forth. (101507b) but then what comes of our "reason" for
being in Iraq? Iran: So
here is more on that from "Pimpin' Pelosi's Palace
(101407d) Apparently
there the Turks are shelling across the border already and
are massing tens of thousands of troops in anticipation of a
resolution to attack into Iraq. CondiGirl
has said what she needed to say and, as useless as ever, has
only managed to get her face in the news.
(101407g) I
guess Pelosi has given our Dumbell In Chief the recipe for
war with Iran. All he has to do is get them to attack
us, SAY that they've attacked us or have some
charred remains to demonstrate this. I wonder if Pelosi
thinks that the current barrage of stories about Iranians
supplying weapons to the Iraqi resistance is "good enough"
or not? (101407c) Iran
plays up its friends who will not allow their territory to
be used in an attack against Iran, Russia is one of
the signatories. (101607c) Pakistan: Pushtun
is coming to shove as Pakistan vows to "pacify" the
Waziristan and associated border areas.
(101807a) Bhutto's
return, intended to make things better, have proven, so far,
to do just the opposite. (101807b) Even
as she is escorted her entourage is attacked and 126 die.
Welcoming? (101807c) Then there is the
possibility
that she is not welcome at all and parts of the Pakistani
government or military have it in for her.
(102007g) The
"deal" whatever it really is, between Bhutto and Musharraf
is fragile and the civil war burgeoning in the country
will continue on. (102007) Part Two,
more on that (102007) And the Greater Islamic Eastern Theater: -
India - Russia - China - South East Asia China: What
with a "cold" and or proxy war going on between China and
the US it is not mystery why Bush the dumber has the
Dalai Lama honored and why China is "furious" about it.
(101607k) Myanmar: Myanmar/Burma what is our, US, interest in
the place?
Not democracy that is certain, but what? Read on to be
disappointed (101607h) Part two, more
importantly, it seems that it is another proxy fight between
the US and China. (101607i) Did I mention
oil? Russia: Russia
warns against the use of force against Iran regarding its
nuclear program (101607j) "pretty boy Putin
says such a thing is unacceptable. The Horn of Africa; The
main Ethiopian base in Mogadishu is attacked by insurgents,
rebels or patriots-one wonders what they
should be called. (101307e) Somalia
seems to be ahead of Iraq as it has three regions, they are
named and have their own armies and they are fighting each
other. Thanks George. (101507c) Sudan: Resource
wars, Sudan-north and south, Darfur … just the opening
skirmishes in a larger, grander game
(101707c) A friend of mine who lived in Vermont said, a couple
years back, that
the "leaf peeping" season was moving. It has. That's global
warming up close and personal. (102007a) Drought
in the US southeast continues and in some cases emergency
procedures are being effected. (102007b) England goes for the gusto, grabbing
all that it can no matter the history and treaties and
tradition or any other thing you might think of.
(101607l) America
the land of the rugged individual, the champion of the
"survivalist" school of capitalist economics-if you
are an individual or a small company, but if you are an
industry group, particularly a failed one, such as the nuke
industry, well, no pockets are so deep that you can't just
feed at the public trough, sorry about the mixed metaphor
(101807e) Signs
of shaky times: precious metals and vital resources go up in
price while the dollar slides down in value.
(101507f) this sort of thing precedes problems but is
only a symptom, not a cause. This is something for those who understand
macroeconomics.
Lots of charts and graphs to interpret, but I simply save
it for others to see that the hell is going on with our
"economy". (101607b) GOP
having a hard time getting money? Gee, I wonder why
the that might be so-could it be our Dingleberry in Chief
has screwed so many that he doesn't know who is still left
unscrewed? (101707f) What will the election of 2008 bring? Will we have
one? The
dark shaded musings are explored as the likelihood
of the US citizenry's acquiescence to a "new 9/11" a larger
war, some other "security disaster" or some such.
(101707i) More details on the Bush braggadocio regarding the
then future war on Iraq. While
he was reassuring the American public war preparations were
fully underway and time was short.
(101707h) What is Cheney's Law? Read and find out,
I
did and I lost weight, I mean to say I shit a
Brick… (101607e) The demise of the 4th estate:
to what depths has the Washington Post fallen, each
day, it seems, brings new lows. So the longer we wait, the
deeper it goes. (1014067h) Ya gotta love this "rule of law" administration.
It firmly believes in "break a law get a pardon".
That
is surely the way to nab those scofflaws.
(101807d)
I guess this is not news but it gets play anyway,
speculation
about what might happen if Iran is attacked and retaliates
with the "oil" weapon (102607e) Bush
the Demagogue reaches new lows (102507g) An overview of books
that have analyzed the Great Hole's war on terror.
(102307i) Part two, in part, asks why
do we fight lawlessness with lawlessness?
(102307j) Part three, enough with the books we
launch into the
findings of this "mega study" (102307k)
Part four,
more than enough blame to go around and the cure?
It is still, at this time, a taboo subject: giving up
empire. (102307l) It
seems that the government's spending for private security
teams in Iraq can't really be accounted for, the
books are a mess, no one seems to know what's been paid for
or how we know we've received what's been paid for. This is
the "oversight" that blackwater operates under
(102307d) and Part two "Hotel
Money", sweet! (102307e) A spate of coverage concerning "extraordinary
rendition" The
upshot seems to be that most people think US citizens can't
have this done to them. The comments on this article are
worth reading for the gems. (102207g) However
this article and those who commented have, it seems,
forgotten the Military Commissions Act of 2007 which DOES
allow the same kind of treatment discussed if "any person"
is accused of aiding and abetting a designated enemy of the
state. A
word on the torture position of the US government and Bush
the dumber's participation which removes from him the cloak
of deniability. Accountability is what should
follow but, well that may wait for another time and
place. (102107g) and Part two; Bush the
Dumbest says the
meaning of the word "torture" is not defined, or rather left
as "what the law says" and that is the rub, in
this case. (102107h) Bin
Laden speaks, admits errors and urges unity among those who
are resisting US forces but all evidence indicates that his
forces were a minor component. What is interesting
is the drop in violence being quoted in the article. The
figures seem high but may not be, after all the US has
changed its strategy, buying local tribes by the handful and
working from the "bottom up" (102207c) Again the bad
news inside this good news is that such evidence may make an
attack on Iran more and more likely. Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Lebanon -
Israel - Palestine - Gaza Israel: Some few details on the Syria bombing. The
claim is that is WAS a light water reactor of North Korean
design. The US being quiet makes sense, we are SUPPOSED to
have made progress with the North Koreans and have delivered
on promises. Syria keeping quiet is understandable,
Israel going mum is understandable because they wouldn't
want to embarrass US efforts in Korea. (102207i) Part
two, details
shmeetails (102207j) Then again Dickless "the gutless wonder" Cheney
could be just leaking on the press, so to speak and they are
lapping it up, uh, so to speak. And there was
"nothing" there. (102207) Greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Turkey - Syria
- Jordan - Egypt Syria: There
are supposed to be satellite photos of the "bombed site" and
it "looks like" the buildings are the same size and shape as
a "Korean designed" facility. However the hype is
being exposed, though who cares … something is up-but
what? (102507g) and More on the Israel/Syria
story. This
article contradicts a few previous ones by claiming that
Syria has not let anyone visit the site and check it out.
(102607c) Turkey: The
"Great Hole" has bungled enough with the Kurd-Turk
problem, now push is coming to shove AND time
is short AND some intelligence and effectiveness is being
called for and, unfortunately, it is the US which needs do
display those things. (102407b) A
commencement of military action by Turkey-using air forces
only (102407d) Despite actions, more threats and promises, which would
effect the
Kurdish north of Iraq, the rebels continue to
attack. (102507b) Time has been bought for amelioration between Turkey,
which promises to exhaust diplomacy all the while
building up forces and succeeding in getting Iraqi
officials to acknowledge the problem and promise to DO
something. We shall see how long the pause is
(102307c) What
does the PKK want? It seems the best solution is
no solution at all. (102507c) There is a
great deal of diplomatic activity, Israel foremost but
Turkey is not far behind. Iran's shadow lengthens,
allied "special forces attacking Iran, the Kurds
"acting up" and Israelis invest, for the long term, in Iraqi
Kurdistan. Push coming to shove? (102507d It
seems that there are mixed signals coming from various
parties to the Iraq-Turkey border situation. Some headlines
proclaim that the Turks will exhaust all diplomatic means
before attacking, this one states that troops
are in position, more are on the way and it could be a
matter of days until some response is made. (102207d)
Part two;
are we approaching what may be Turkey's "finest
hour"? (102207e) Greater Islamic Region: Western Theater: Saudi
Arabia - Iraq - Iran - Pakistan - Afghanistan Afghanistan: Disagreement in NATO over who does what in
Iraq,
the "news" is that it seems to say that another 5 or 10
years will be needed before we can leave the fighting to the
Afghans and, I guess, God only knows how long that
will last. (102407a) We call it the Persian Gulf, but what's in a name?
Plenty if you live in the U.A.E. An interesting glimpse at
one of the most backward "civilized" nations on
earth. (102607f) Iraq: Iraqi
nationalism getting reborn? The irony is
that the parent would be the US and its idiot
enforcers "team Blackwater" That we WILL leave is not
the question, now it may only be a matter of time.
(102607b) Sadr
City in a bit of an uproar over innocent dead killed in an
air strike. The US makes flat denials and evidence
mounts. (102307a) Luckily for us Sadr is and
has been holding back his forces … so … That last story segues nicely into this one which talks
about our
increasing use of bombing in Iraq.
(102307b) How
are the refugees from Iraq faring in Syria? Read
Riverbend's report. She's one who did make it out, just in
time. (102207) Another
set of "end game" scenarios for Iraq. Each has its problems,
of course, but the best solution, surprise surprise, is the
one least likely because it would require a "reality based"
policy from the US, Iraqi parties, Iraq's neighbors and also
cooperation. Well that should put the kibosh on that
sort of thing. (102107f) An
attack against an Iranian connected terrorist kills many,
including civilians. (102207f) It also
mentions, reminds rather, that Sadr has called off his
minions from making attacks on US forces. This may be one
reason attacks and violence is "down". The
daily toll in Iraq, even this set of summaries mention that
there is a reduction in the number of dead showing
up-still violence is high, chaos reigns and
abounding problems overarch all aspects of life. But this IS
a measure of progress. (102207o) And the Greater Islamic Southern Theater: Sudan
- Ethiopia - Somalia, etc.: Chad
has peace? That is the good news. Will it last longer than
other periods of peace? That is the question isn't
it? (102507a) Ethiopia: Rebels claim a victory, government denial
but what is clear is that there is less peace than
previously. Ethiopia is involved in a few wars now.
Apparently at least one of its own, Somalia's factional
fighting and there has been rumors of another.
This
is the price it pays for being a US proxy in the "vital horn
of Africa" (102107b) And the Greater Islamic Eastern Theater: -
India - Russia - China - South East Asia China Perhaps
THIS is the intended effect of Bush the dumber's treating
the Big Kahuna of Tibet, some dirt tossed on
China's image, some unrest in Tibet (102107c) Just
an indication of where we stand in Ecuador, which is to say
nowhere. (102607g) One
good turn deserves another, now Chile is opting to claim
more of the Antarctic pie. If everyone gets into
this act we could have "conflicting concerns" and soon.
(102207a) Another mega study, five
years in the making is framed as a "call to action" while
the data presented are actually in the "frightening"
category. (102507h) So before you look at specific incidents, data points as
it were, take
a look at the worst case scenario as envisioned by a world
class mind, someone who knows where of he speaks.
(102207n) Acid oceans? What is interesting is that the
process is accelerating and, being another global warming
effect, should continue to do so. The focus of the
article is the effect it will have on any ocean creature
with a shell. That
means plankton which is at the base of the ocean's food
chain. Probably waaaaaay not good.
(102107e) Although they do not mention global warming, they
do mention a drought, which is part and parcel of the
warming trend. This
is an example, therefore, of the local effects of GW in the
US as 250,000 are evacuated from a drought stricken region
of California (102207b) Wild fires and global warming do connect an amplifying
feedback is what it is called.
Global warming sets the stage for fires and they enhance
global warming's effect. (102607g) A
water fight that is not all "fun and games". Florida,
Georgia and Alabama tussle over the limited resource
in a time of shortages. The GW drought continues.
(102207l) Meanwhile
back at the ranches in "wild west" a similar tragedy unfolds
(102207m) The radioactive dust from all that depleted uranium
weaponry used in Gulf War's one and two have reached merry
old England. By extension it has also traveled the
world over.
Luckily Halliburton has taken care of the problem and
hushed it up for some time.(102107l) It is not as if the problem DU weapons cause is
unknown and unstudied. It has
been and, most likely will be-and for decades to come
(102107m) We hear, constantly, each and every time a Damocrap
"blasts" the administration about the war and how badly it
is going or that it can't be won, that such a candidate will
loose, well, history
has proved such prognosticators wrong, but that does not
stop such "media mush mouths" from continuing to flog their
dolphins in public, does it? (102107j) The sad truth about
the trashing of Gore in 2000, now that he's all Nobel and
stuff some have eaten crow but have not realized it
yet, others make excuses for themselves and their friends
while, rightfully, trashing others. Oh well. (102107o) The "chicken or the egg" phenomenon or question
applied to polling.
One good thing leads to another and it may be that this has
led to "Clinton's inevitability" Forget the issue of how
the election "coverage" is mostly about "horse race"
statistics, headline phrasing or money. (102107d) There was, some 40 years ago, another illegal war which
some resisted.
A strategy for those who resisted was created. The text
of their "reason for being" is relevant for today. It
explains why Vietnam was illegal and thus why Iraq and
Afghanistan are. It is very eloquent and
rational. (102607a)
10/13//07
10/20//07
10/27//07
11/03//07 The man who might be called the "father
of the Iraq war" already known as a phony and a liar is
exposed, finally on American TV (110207a) The roll out on the next "Big Tour" of the Bush and
Cheney Show. It
seems 52% of Americans believe its OK to attack Iran. The
Labor Day kickoff of the campaign has borne its fruit so
only time will tell. (103107c) Here's
a sample of a "coincidence" illuminating "the
plan" (103107d) What
IS all this about that "building on the Euphrates" that was
bombed by the Israelis? It's kicking up more
speculation than George W's wannabe dick.
(103007c) I wonder if it might all be just a theft with
accompanying murders, which has been played by others into
whatever they want.
Bush made 9/11 the 24/7 drama that it is but what if it WAS
just a rather large scale robbery obscured by its "ripple
effect". What about the gold stored at the world trade
center, up to a billion gone? What? Read the
discussion, it's a kicker. (102907j) Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Gaza - Israel -
Lebanon - Palestine Israel: Hamas is getting training and newer, better weapons.
The
IDF understands this and a slight but distinctive up-tick in
casualties among units taking action in Gaza.
(103007e) Lebanon: I
guess Lebanese firing on Israeli planes in Lebanon's
airspace is news but if it continues?
(102807e) Greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Turkey - Syria
- Jordan - Egypt Here is more on that, this
article says that 13 nations are "going for it". This is all
we need a nuclear "race" in the most unstable area of the
world. Chalk up another jackass
accomplishment to Bush the Dumber whose imbecilic efforts
stirred a host of chaotic forces in the region to greater
violence and impact. (103107f) Kurdistan: The language of defiance and suspicion
that the Turks really want to destabilize the Kurdish region
of Iraq to thwart any ambitions among its own Kurds is the
perspective of one Kurdish leader
(102807n) Turkey: Bush
the Dumberest has managed to change Turkey, from a, one time
staunch, no-brainer class, US ally, into something
else, but what?. (103107g) Part two: more
reasons, as if we need any (103107h)
The
politics of the region as well as various parts of the world
have impact on this problem as well as how its
resolved, not to mention its cause (102907g) Part
two, But
Is this the appropriate headline: "The Turks Are
Coming!" (102907h) Turkey has choices to make and considerations regarding
any kind of ground incursion. A
brief outline in this article sheds light
(102807b) Part two; The
cross claims of the blame game (102807c) An
overview of the various interests and how they view an
incursion by Turkey - hint most think it is a bad
idea, overall, but one that may be enacted nonetheless.
(102907f) Kurds
killed hundreds of miles inside Turkey, Iraq talks collapse
and (102807g) diplomacy
is sputtering out, Turks are building up troops so it could
get messy. My personal notion is that Al Qaida
could have Kurdish recruits and who knows but dat wily ol'
Bin Laden could be on the verge of draggin' in Turkey and
even Iran into the Iraq party mix - and no one will forget
the nuts (102807k) Greater Islamic Region: Western Theater: Saudi
Arabia - Iraq - Iran - Pakistan - Afghanistan Afghanistan: A
tactic used in Iraq comes to bear in Afghanistan,
attacking the aid convoys and personnel limits what
the NGO's can do (103007f) What's
more we hear that there is " a surge" of insurgents entering
the country, a bunch wilder than the usual
suspects. (103007g) Iraq: A
brief speculation on the "staying prospects" of the US or
allied forces in Iraq and Afghanistan.
(110207b) And
we're talking, as did Dumbsfeld, about 50 years or more and
it is NOT about oil (110207c) It is nothing like hearing it from the people
themselves, Iraqi's in the
resistance are given voice, the film is currently not being
seen in the US, but these few excerpts of what is
said, though dated, still apply (103107e) America's
newest embassy - silently it sends a message: we will be
staying on for some time to come. (lost this
listing) The upshot of a large discussion by those who know
the "ground situation" in Iraq are
seeing a future of "warlordism" the foundations are being
laid by current US policy and fragmentation assisted
by that same policy, there area 144 militia in Basra alone.
This means national unity is "not happening" and that chaos
is (102907c) The US wants to make security gains in Sunni areas so it
has bought off tribal leaders and pulled other tricks out of
the bag and there has been progress, but
setting up police and other forces from the "ground up" is
not popular with the Shia's governing in Baghdad, so a rift
or "misunderstanding" has developed.
(102807j) A segue to the fact that there is a decline in killing
apparent though what made it happen is a question,
still
Bush the dumber will claim bragging rights if "the surge"
could take full credit, nevertheless, as stated
before, I wonder if this success may encourage action with
Iran. (103107a) And then, well, there ARE other explanations. One
might consider, in the light of this data the notion that
the insurgencies violence has long been focused on ethnic
cleansing. (103107b) Then too there are figures which say the
decline has reached its nadir and there is an upsurge in the
killings (110207d) Just
an example of the apocalyptic thinking going around,
it is not only in the American Christian right, it's at home
in Basra as well. (102907b) Iran: A
reasonable view of how to deal with Iran sounds
good, except for one fact, it IS a reasonable
plan and so ... (102907d) Is Russia providing some kind of "deal" with Iran?
A
recent unusual summit swirls up rumors to that effect and
some "entanglement" between Iran and Russia
probably frustrate, to some extent Dickless Cheney
(102907i) Meanwhile an
attack would give some of the Iranian leadership what they
want, for them it seems they'd come out ahead
in the short and long term. (102907e) And here is some of what went on "behind the scenes" to
Iraq,
the neo cons misbegotten drunk for their "success" and
before they saw the truth and began looking to Iran
(110107c) Both the Iranian government and that of the US need each
other, the
recent sanctions make war more likely says this article and,
unfortunately it makes sense, too much so.
(102807m) Related to Turkey's problem is Iran's Kurd Question.
Only here the US is said to be involved with boots on the
ground and is supporting the Kurdish attacks
(102807h) Pakistan: A loss
in control for Pakistan's government? Radicals
take a swat at him? (110307a) Part two, some
details and bragging or threats. (110307b)
Just
a glimpse into the Pakistan resistance, a place beyond
government control, a militia and passion.
(102807a) And the Greater Islamic Eastern Theater: - India -
Russia - China - South East Asia China: A
brief history of China and Iran, modern relations, that
is. (110107d) And the Greater Islamic Southern Theater: Sudan
- Ethiopia - Somalia, etc.: Somalia: Mogadishu embattled again. Artillery
battles are mentioned in this report so I would guess the
"rebels" are getting a good level of funding from somewhere,
hmmm, I wonder where? (102807i) Maybe if they spent half as much energy protecting the
Arctic from the effects of global warming as
they do attempting to exploit the "openings" we'd
see some helpful changes but the gold rush is on.
(103007b) The
"Garbage Patch" a vast area in the Pacific where
everything plastic collects, degrades and causes problems,
the question is how to clean it up? (103007a) Coal
use seen as on the rise despite Global Warming's ever
present present ... (102807d) And
everyone wants a piece of the Chinese coal company's
action, a veritable who's who of the robber barons
and even Texan teachers are into the act (102807f) So how DID those nukes get moved? According to
this article the "it was all a series of accidents and
unexpected 'one time' events" does not fly. The
security on those weapons is very effective, so some one had
to disarm the alarms for them to move. Who, why, who ordered
it, and again why? (110307e) The "debate" on Iran continues, finally, with
the
Damnitcrapss and Repugnocant's going their own "debatable"
ways. (110307d) One persons "tells
it like it is regarding Iran and the article then portrays
the "rest of the field, disappointingly enough.
(110107b) So
someone who surprises most by wanting to reinstate or
revivify the War Powers Act and goes public and wants
congress to act on this ... gets (yawn) coverage.
(103007d)
Bush
seems to believe that if you repeat a big enough lie, often
enough, everyone will just nod off and accept it
for fact. Here are some of his favorites. (110907h) The extra legal trials, the Military Commissions
trying Guantanamo prisoners have succeeded in finding
one self admittedly guilty person, guilty-after six years.
At that rate we'll be "done" with Guantanamo trials in about
1800 years. (110907g) Several
crises now surround the "main front" of Iraq
which, ironically, has shown some evidence of a "cool down'.
However any one of these other situations can add to the
complexity of managing US policy in the region.
(110907c) A book "The
One Percent Doctrine" currently being ignored, details some
of the Gross Dumbell's "administration" and
making of war interesting details to be sure
(110707b) Calling the president a liar, a criminal and, in my
mind since deaths occurred during "enhanced interrogation" a
murderer. Shouldn't he be hung high and left to twist in a
drying breeze so the buzzards could have at him?
Why
don't you read it here (110607f) Israel: The
growth rate is good in the occupied territories of the
Palestinian people. Israel admits not keeping
its word. (110807g) Greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Turkey - Syria -
Jordan-Kurdistan - Egypt A big meeting, lots of nice rhetoric and the upshot is
same-o, same-o. Which
the Turks, I would guess, do not like and so we may see some
"action on the ground" (110407c) Turkey: Iraq: US
gives word that things are getting better, others debate
that assertion (110907e) 2.3
million internally displaced, that's the figure.
Other data points include Sadr getting nipped by the
"other Shias" with whom there may be grudges "goin on"
(110607d) A
land of refugees and prisoners, that is the portrait
here, given of Iraq, despite the touted
progress in violence reduction. (110607e) The violence is down. That seems to be accepted
and welcome news. The
downside is the cause for the decline, the
strategies and the means used. This may be a window of
opportunity which needs to be expanded, framed as it were,
securely. (110507d) Odd, but not really, that this is in the
news,
the "Iraqi government" boots the Russians out of an oil
field, soon to be opened to "outside interests"
and so Russia threatens to hit back financially
(110407d) Pakistan: Get yer' brand new Nukes here, get them while they're
hot! The
US knew more about Khan's doings than we've been led to
believe. A shocker that should be front page
news, but instead it is in a book being published overseas.
(110907d) Bhutto
is "freed" but the planned rally was not held.
(110907b) update: no it wasn't. The
media is not a lap dog in Pakistan. There
are news feeds reaching the people and the government can't
shut off the flow. (110907a) Well,
Mr. M. SAYS the elections will happen, but as
arrests continue one wonders who will run against him?
(110807c) Meanwhile the money flows on and on.
We
send cash, by the way, 100 million a month goes to Mr.
M. and he promises to spend it wisely.
(110807f) Arrests,
of some thousands it is implied, but protests none the less,
instability and threat (110607a) It
seems the Taliban is quick to take advantage of the
distraction (110707a) Mushmouth
says its all about fighting terrorism and then
makes the necessary excuses and lies, however, few buy it
(110607i) And
then Bhutto to hold a rally? Amid the "crack
down" what showmanship, eh? (110607j) A
ringing call for rebellion? But what they don't
say is that Bhutto left Pakistan shortly before the world's
newest dictator took control. (110607b) Where else does repression begin but on "the
Hill" itself. MushMouth Musharaff has his minions swarm the
place, with lobbyists of course, money is awash
no doubt and it is not at all clear that Bhutto
or any opposition has a presence at "the table" as it were
(110607c) Despite the media lock down
the web manages "go-a rounds" and the information super
highway allows information to circulate.
(110607d) Some
portions of Pakistan's press speak out as evidenced in this
brief. (110507a) But the crackdown is severe, wide spread, and this
article said it was "sparked"
by the Pakistani Supreme Courts being prepared to decide
that Mr. M. should step down. (110507f) Part two,
much
is being done to shut down any attempt at organizing
"the people" (110507g) Part three, the
only question, it seems, is how long will he keep it
up? (110507h) But
the money still flows and Mr. M. is still "our man" in
"Pakiland" (110507b) A
sudden seizure of power, papers shut down, opposition
members arrested by the hundreds, phone service cut
in the capital where the troops have been called
out. (110407b What gives? Well, not Mr. M. doesn't that
seems sure. Here
is a bit more on that (110407a) Well this is the story of the hour, and, it seems,
that Mush
Mouth Musharaff will be given a "talking to" by both the
Brits and CandyGirl Rice. (110407f) Korea This article indicates
doubt about the "facts" George W. Jackass stated as a reason
to upend Clinton's nuclear agreement with North Korea.
What the story ignores is the fact that
the intel "used" was probably as good as the intel that
led us into Iraq-that aspect of the issue is ignored.
(111007a) China: A
brief history of China and Iran, modern relations, that
is. (110107d) Russia: It seems the "colorful" revolutions spawned, some say,
by US institutions with the connivance of "the decider" has
had a set
back. You'll recall the "Rose Revolution", the promises, the
BushTalk and now, well … (110807d) A bit of an update on
the drought punishing the south east of the US.
Atlanta Georgia is the largest city with a desperate
need and a closing deadline. (110907j) And in this story you can see a map of
the blighted region and read of some particular incidents
that show the depth of the problem.
(110907k) What
might be one of the great dumbbell's "finest" achievements,
South America is going its own way, is a process
that has ramifications that only they know.
(110907i) The Future: This speculative article outlines the
"cost of the decider's presidency" It is
breathtaking to see just how vast and profound
the errors have been and it is clear that a few generations
shall pass before it is all repaired. (110807e) Herr Gropenfuhrer dictates budget cuts, why?
Because the housing markets corruption and rancor festers
large scale losses, everywhere (110607g) I
archive this because it is an attempted portrait of the
financial systems under duress. I can only
understand that a great deal of "non-money" has supplanted
"real money" which has supplanted real things of value such
as gold and commodities. (110507k) Part two, a
flood of numbers and some salient quotes make an
unsettling image (110507l) Part three another
set of notes concerning "the troubles" (110507m)
Part four, stories
from around the world (110507n) Part five,
the
blizzard of facts and figures continues.
Some one will sort this out some day. "We'll meet again,
don't know where, don't know when … "
(110507o) We
hear it mentioned, the "sixty vote requirement" to "get
anything done" in the Senate. It simply is not true.
What is true is that the DamnedDems are
unwilling to fight with anything like backbone or courage.
The Senate accepts a person who is "wrong on torture" and so
the US goes on record as being "wrong on torture"
(110907f) That
housing market thingy just won't go away and we
go inside a banking story to look for the billions and
billions of losses-yet to come (110507i) Part
two,
where the "ripple" effect will effect-the long road to the
top (110507j) Politics,
elections, Iran, Iraq all mixed together for a "fun
time." (110507e) One
wonders if this story about "construction opportunities" in
Iraq will EVER make the mainstream news. No, I
don't really wonder. (110807a) Salt
Lake City Mayor says 'We won't take it anymore!'
meaning Bush and Co. and says much more than
that, so this won't be on the "headline news" will it?
(110807b) Hope: Some
hope in that the "national ID" has met significant
resistance and may fall by the wayside.
However it is still "alive" and so best keep an eye on
the issue. (110407e) If these people are right then we've
a reason for hope: A
word from Global Warming doubters, some points
might be considered but, well, I believe the issue has been
settled (110407g) Part two, continuing
on with arguments and evidence. (110407h)
However one must ponder the facts from the field,
glaciers did not meld en masse back in the 30's, we did not
see the Arctic ice in such stark reduction, nor did the
ocean's temperature rise or its PH begin to change and then
the deforestation and extreme weather events are all
counterpoint to the article.
On
Memorial Day, 11/11/07 we mourn the dead, well, it
seems we mourn our dead and forget the million plus we've
killed since the Iraq invasion (111607b) Seeking
a smoking gun for the "Iran factor in Iraq" that is the
word. But it's not as if the US has not announced
many examples of "proof" already. (111007e) Some
resistance against a strike on Iran is in evidence, but one
has to wonder (111007l) Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Lebanon -
Israel - Palestine - Gaza Lebanon: Fiery
words from Hezbollah in Lebanon and this article,
written by an opponent of Hezbollah, is outraged but also
outlines some of the difficulties ahead.
(111307g) Greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Turkey - Syria
- Jordan - Egypt Syria: What
may be the last word on the "infamous" Israeli attack on a
"facility" in Syria. (111307i) Turkey: Some
cross border action is being reported between Turkish and
Kurdish forces (111307a) Greater Islamic Region: Western Theater: Saudi
Arabia - Iraq - Iran - Pakistan - Afghanistan Iraq: Moqtada
makes more moves-gusto for a new government? Putting
his followers into the Iraqi army by the thousands and
mournful Maliki both want to shun Sunnis that Syria is
"getting rid of" (111707c) Part two, more
on that (111707e.) The
latest glitch in the "improvements in Iraq" comes from the
Baghdad government US military says (111507b)
Part two, what
may be tearing Iraq apart is exactly what is contributing to
the relative peace right now. (111507c) Upbeat
news: the number of roadside bombs has dropped.
Again, as with all this recent good news from Iraq, my worry
is that it all only makes an attack on Iran more possible.
(111307c) I don't like the title of this article, but
the depiction of a fire fight is essential to understand the
kind of fighting and the kind of injuries that US troops
suffer through (111207o) An
overview of the improvements in Iraq are mostly statistical,
less attacks, less bombing raids, fewer bodies found
and some economic activity taking place. However the "window
of opportunity" to take this peace respite and extend it is
limited and it is unnerving to note that the US may still
miss the chance as the article makes clear
(111207m) Some more on that-violence
is down but that is because the sectarian killing has done
its job, there are two Baghdad's. Also Mr. Sadr has
called off his boys, massive bribes have former insurgents
putting on "legitimate uniforms" and then there IS the surge
also in the mix, seriously many more cache's have been found
(111307f) So
the plan is to take in volunteers who are then trained and
armed the problem is most volunteers are Sunni and
the Baghdad clique is distrustful and then the program is
not managed well, resources lacking and all that-still it IS
part of the solution (111207h) And
some street scenes that exemplify the problem
(111207i) A look at one
of the reasons violence in Baghdad is down, there
are now two Baghdad's (111207j) Iran: A
speculative look at Iran's demographics and why it may be
war, now or never for them (111307g) More
"proof" that Iranian support for certain insurgents in Iraq
are causing US casualties. So do we see a new
set of "go for Iran arguments" or what? (111107c) Efforts to isolate Iran prove more difficult
especially when one or more of our
"regional allies" help ease Iran's worries.
(111007b) This
writer thinks an Iran war is "on the back burner, for
now" citing something of a return to rationalism
to the current US administration-however we're not out of
the woods yet (111107d) However the
National Intelligence Estimate for Iran has not and is not
what Cheney wants, there is resistance in the
intel community yet (111207b) and
the details, details (111207c) Something of an odd story from Iran, Sufi's
fighting with heavy police after sectarian fisticuffs or gun
battles (111107a) Pakistan: Maybe
"game theory" is helpful in understanding what is going on
in PakWorld.chaos (111707a) Part two,
why
PakWorld.chaos will slide into problems
(111707b) Losing ground are we? That is the worrisome word, the
crackdown on the streets has
pulled "human resources" away from other problems and so has
helped the militants obtain some gains.
(111607e) Bhutto
is allowed to travel but Mushmouth is still holding the
reigns of power (111507a) So brief and so horrific, I must take pride in this
article, though not to much, after all I'd want a different
indication from what it presents, nonetheless,
I've
been saying for several years "it's Pakistan" that would be
the place "most likely" to render US policy efforts their
greatest defeat, possibly a crushing blow
(111407) You
know it is enough to make me think that there is a
pattern, a distractive one, in which we are swept
along from focusing on one then another of the world's ills.
(111407e) Meanwhile the field of fodder, drying in sun, awaits
that one spark. The tide is up at the dam. even as Mushmouth
has painted himself into a corner. (111407d) As Hillary runs for Prez, we should recall how well
her
hubby schmoozed with the mysterious Mr. M from Pakistan
(111407b) Bhutto
calls for Mr. Mushmouth to resign and an alliance
with another big time opponent of Mr. M.
(111307b) And there seems to be
something of a ticking time bomb, Thursday, Mr. M. is
supposed to make a decision, well, well see,
won't we? (111307e) And there is some debate as to
whether the
"state of emergency" has weakened efforts to deal with an
insurgency that is gaining ground.
(111307d) A brief interview portrays the difficulties
in Pakistan as being made much, much worse by US
policies, activities and military action in
Afghanistan (111007k) And the Greater Islamic Southern Theater: Sudan
- Ethiopia - Somalia, etc.: Global
warming is having its effect in Africa, disproportionately
so. (111207g) The upshot is that the extent
of the
damage and change is not sustainable for many of those
effected. (111207g) Somalia Battles
continue in the capital and the number of internally
displaced tops 800K (111207p) And the Greater Islamic Eastern Theater: -
India - Russia - China - South East Asia Russia
and China both make further sanctions on Iran quite
difficult and Russia is to begin sending fuel for
Iran's reactor. (111607a) How
that "housing issue" has metastasized.
International monetary trading is being effected and
Japan may have been set up for a rude awakening.
(111107b) Burma: The
crackdown continues and worsening, if anything.
(111207a) Why do we "want Chavez' out of there? Could
it be that he and his nation sit on top of an oil
empire? (111407a) The
political, military and social consequences of global
warming are being considered-a changing world means
meeting changing needs (111207d) Nations
of the Arctic regions are seeing the changes and are trying
to alert the world (111207e) The bee population crash recently has seen fixes put in
place, but
is there a guarantee that this will not happen again, maybe
they should LISTEN to the science the US government has paid
for. (111007c) Polls
show a post 9/11 word taking shape in the US
electorate (111607b) An example of what
media mavens are saying regarding the "true cost" of the
Iraq/Afghanistan war (111407c) The
price Kucinich pays for "going against the flow" of Pelosi
et al. (111207n) Kucinich
puts "impeachment of Cheney" on the table over Pelosi's
protest. Even some Repuglicans went along for this
ride. Perhaps we'll see something of a show?
(111007h) And here we are led to see that the
plan DOES include targeting Bush the dumber as well
(111007i) If you want a glimpse into the demise of the Repuglican
party
read about its rising star a huckster named Huckabee. He
is "wowing" them in Iowa, for now
(111007f) Holocaust
denial is verboten in the good old US of A, except if it is
the Armenian one, then well, it was an unfortunate
chapter in history and no reason to allow any interference
with current policy. So Bush the Dumber kowtows to Turkish
tantrums and the problem goes away. (111007) This story is included, just as a hedge. Some few years
ago I heard that the schema for obtaining global control
would proceed from the "cold war" theatre piece to that of
the "terrorist performances" and then transition to the
"alien threat". Each of these would entail more governmental
security and such like. Is
this a supposed harbinger of the "next phase"?
(111007g)
RummyDumbo gets a break from the French courts. It
seems that he can claim immunity from the charges of
torture. The precedent cases
cited are those that involved Chile's Pinochet and Chad's
Hissene Habre-just plain nice folks, I guess
(112307c) When it comes to Iran securing what it needs, it
seems US
allies such as Germany and Italy are the places to
go. In the case of Italy it is just another example
of how disjointed the NATO nations are and how loose the
"West" has become (112207b) Armed
men attempt to breach security at a nuclear site?
(111807e) Opening
a new front in the "Great War" an Islamic woman debates the
approach radical Islamists have taken, not that I
agree with all she says, especially about Israelis but she
has a point and it is hope as part of it. (111807a )
Meanwhile
Israel wants IAEA's chief to step down, he's soft on Iran
you know (111907d) Repuglicans
have been "betting" that Iraq will go well, recent
news has been supportive but time will tell the most
(112007b) What IS waterboarding, for those not in the know,
here is a detailed description of the "enhanced
interrogation method" that is NOT torture according the
prezydick of these United Snakes
(112007j) Europe: What?
Another war looming? Kosovo and Serbia are at
odds, to say the least and time is short for a solution.
Will miracles ever come? (112007i) Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Lebanon -
Israel - Palestine - Gaza The
role Turkey will play in this region is unclear.
Various issues: the kurds, the US debacle in Iraq, Iran,
oil pipelines, NATO's expansion, a "frisky" Russia, and
more. This article has nuggets to mine and explains a
good deal. (112007) Israel: Some
interesting historical details about Israel's nuclear
weapons, US foreign policy, history and
corruption, of course (112007k) Lebanon: Lebanon is close to chaos.
Friday is the deadline for some solution to the crisis in
"non-government" government (112007f) Surprise,
word is that the military is "holding the fort". Greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Turkey - Syria
- Jordan - Egypt Greater Islamic Region: Western Theater: Saudi
Arabia - Iraq - Iran - Pakistan - Afghanistan Thankfully there are some
who believe an attack on Iran is not in the cards but what
if an "accident" occurs. Speculation is that
either the US or Iran's leader could benefit from such an
occurrence even though the cost is huge.
(111907c) Iraq: A couple of years ago there was a story predicting this,
a tide of wounded coming back from the Iraq war where 1.5
million have served thus far. The
estimate is that maybe 150K have head injuries alone while
the "official" figure is a fraction of that
(112307a) The article implies that this category of
wounded is separate from the others. A
raid creates a set of data points concerning where the
foreign insurgents come from. Is it any surprise
that more than half come from our allies in the region?
(112207a) Finally, a hard figure, 4.2 million Iraqi refugees.
Another article today mentioned Iraq's population at 26
million. Let us do the math then, 4m left the country, 1m
dead, 2m wounded, injured, collaterally, 2 million
internally displaced. That totals out to 9 million, more
than 1 in three Iraqi's have been "impacted severely" and
negatively by the US policy. Yes
some are returning home, but to integrated "sect neutral"
neighborhoods? Hardly likely now.
(112107c) A number of articles say the same thing, yes
improvements are happening in Iraq, deaths being down and
such. But the caveat remains, we seem to be having a window
of opportunity, for one reason or another and we need to
take advantage of it. But the catch is the reason
for the window and what that portends. (112107d) Iran: Dozens
of dead in Pakistan. Is this the start of a new front?
(112307e) The idea is to mimic the strategy the US has used in
Anbar province, that
is to say funnel money to tribal groups or other leaders and
pay the tribes to "shoot the bad guys" as it
were. (112007c) Part two, the article
continues and, essentially does
not truly discuss risks, rather it attempts to argue for the
theoretical merits. (112007d) Mushmouth's
packed court gives him "a break" and so it is same o
same o for Pakiworld's main man while things fray around the
edges (111907b) We, the US, via the "honorable" Negroponte
tell Mr. M. what to do, we "urge him, I wonder what the
"translation of that is. (111807b) And the Greater Islamic Eastern Theater: -
India - Russia - China - South East Asia Russia: Russia
makes its moves in many ways, here we see another oil
deal (112307b) An
interesting story that Italy might look at.
(112307c) And
this is another story Italy might consider in its "energy
plan" (112307d) Drought usually lasts for ten years, they say, so
that means the
west's is at least half over but it seems to be a record
breaker in the 500-year category.
(111807f) We hear that the time is short for the
plateau areas of South America where glaciers, a major
source of fresh water, are melting away. Time is close for
impact here but still life goes on
(112307d) Here is an assortment of stories that demonstrate
how the US housing market is pulling at the pillars of world
financing, I know it's not just that and other
factors play but it may be a dozy of a year coming up
(112307e) Probable
cause takes a back seat sometimes and one wonders what the
future will bring if this trend is given its "head''
(112307b) This is interesting, sidestepping the issue of stem cells
allows the kind of research that conservatives wanted to
halt.
We shall see if they allow what amounts to the ability to
clone being "on the table" (112107b) Sometimes
inadvertence in stories are the gem for the discerning mind.
The story is supposed to be a bit of a rehash of the murder
of Litvinenko. He was poisoned in London with the
radioactive isotope polonium-210. But at the end this
sentence appears: "Lugovoi maintained Britain has
historically regarded Russia as an enemy and imperial
rival." The use of the term "imperial rival" is what catches
the eye. The writer is saying that Russia is imperial. This
had me consider the power alignments before WW1, such
passions led up to that great war. A lot to read from a pair
of words, true, but then, the news is the supporting data.
(112207) The long slow slide of the dollar has long term
consequences,
one is that it will cease to be the "default" currency and
that would mean a difficulty in sustaining deficit
spending which the US govt. depends upon
(112007e) Part of the problem the dollar has is the housing
mess, which has NOT seen the real crest of the problem,
that
comes with balloon payments in 2008.
(112407a)
I smell a bailout of course, the taxpayers will
duly fork out the requisite hundreds of billions….. Yet another hidden cost of our "great dumbbell's"
reign,
the spread of Democracy has apparently stalled and there
are some setbacks. (112007g) Part
two,
if the US had been focused on spreading democracy and
modeling it, it might have helped.
(112007h) At
the heart of the cool off in the stock market is the housing
mess, which has managed to spread its effects
worldwide, to Japan for example (111907a) According to this article the
2008 Defense Authorization Bill authorizes use of US
military for domestic purposes, rather quite against the
common perceptions of what the constitution or centuries of
US practice allows, eh? (112007a) You can get
a pdf file of the bill and find the relevant quotation on
page 673. I guess since the press won't do the work people write
tell all books. This
one has Bush and co shown as culpable in the PlameGate
scandal (112207c) Now that the "cat is out of
the bag" what will the damned Dems do? Love this story a microcosm of what is "wrong" with our
news system: corruption. Will
the 100 million dollar law suit against Ghouliani get
cleavage, uh, I mean coverage? Will the other
stories connected to it "get any"? Will we see the "long"
and short of it? please! (111907h) What
a difference reading a report makes as opposed to reading a
report about the report-leave it to our "news hounds" to
apply all the lipstick any pig will need
(111907e) uh, so to speak, that is-and it's
not just OUR press either. You have to go to England for a
balanced view of the report. How to sell a war with Iran, well first you do
research, this
means focus groups being asked which phrases or terms would
"get the public on board" as it were
(111907f) This is more of an OMG moment. I
miss out not reading the idiots that pass for, well idiots
such as a Mr. Friedman whose psycho playground instinct laid
bare for all the world to see-both enemies and
friends must find him "entertaining" (111907g) Would that this WAS in the past. A
new set of studies, done by economists, appear to show the
deterrent effect of capital punishment. Debate rages
anew, of course, logic notwithstanding, reason
notwithstanding and morality notwithstanding. The studies
apparently "show" lives are saved. I doubt it, my position
still stands. (111807c) Part two, the kicker is saved
until the last, apparently the heart
of the studies are simple assumptions, comparing rates of
executions with homicide rates and assuming that one effects
the other. If that's logical I'll eat my hat
(111807d)
11/10/07
11/17//07
11/24//07
12/01//07 Three
thousand, five hundred billion dollars. What WOULD that buy
for America and its citizens? That is the estimated
costs of our failing GWOT, remember that acronym?
(112507d) And this
is a set of story summaries marking out a portrait of the
moment as they might be considered today.
(112907h) And
something similar from only a couple of years back, just for
comparison's sake (112907i) Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Gaza -
Israel-Lebanon-Palestine Lebanon: Darkness falls, that is what this story is about.
Lebanon
literally and figuratively suffers what may be the
frightening calm before a storm.
(112607a) Greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Turkey - Syria
- Jordan - Egypt Turkey: Some action on the Turkish/Iraqi border continues,
despite
a troop build up there is no word of a large scale
attack. (120107c) Greater Islamic Region: Western Theater: Saudi
Arabia - Iraq - Iran - Pakistan - Afghanistan Afghanistan: Says
here that more than half Afghanistan is ruled by the
Taliban, we need to double our troop strength
to deal and humanitarian problems are severe. Oh, by the way
allied forces outdo the Taliban when it comes to killing
innocents and the drugocracy ruling the place is doing well,
thank you. (112507a) And this story begins with the
description of an incident, segues to a "larger picture"
which informs and "fills in" that story.
(112507i) Iraq: The
Sunni groups formed and armed by the US is touted as being a
cause for the lowering of violence in Iraq, there is
a threat that Iraqi's see and only the future will tell us
whether or not it is valid (113007a) The
real story about the returning Baghdadi's, something about
the inadvertent mention of a "5 year plan" and
more. (113007b) I would think each and every
presidential candidate would be asked about this "plan" What is the
Algebra of Occupation? Read on (112807a) The
genocide that is done on the side
(112607b) Well, we are changing our minds about permanent bases,
even the
Hillary isn't nay saying another decade or so in Iraq and
she's ANTIWAR, or so we understand. The comments for the
article are good. (112707b) Iran: Interesting notions from Scott Ritter
concerning why
we have not attacked Iran as of yet and what's up with the
"delay" (113007c) A new missile made by Iran with enough range to
reach Israel. New submarines are on the way too. Talk
is still "sharp" and issues are still at least heating up.
Oh
well. (112707a) Indicators show an uptick in
fuel delivery to US naval forces in the Persian Gulf
region. Speculation
has it that some increased activity will be
happening. (112507b) That story follows
closely on the heels of this one, which
lays blame on Iran for a bombing in Baghdad.
(112507c) Pakistan Talk
about "hot shoes to fill" the new leader of the military has
to "fish or cut bait" and the insurgents offer of ceasefire,
I guess, will not wait. (112907e) He has to
choose between his country and the US interests. It seems Pakistan is in for some kind of change.
Who
is the "most nuclear" of the possible replacements? The
argument goes on, but the US MUST be interested in the
possibilities (120107a) and if
history be a guide both Bhutto and Sharif have had their day
with the Taliban and have bragging rights about how
"inclusive" they each are. It is thought that
both will "toe the line" with the US, but what will the
people say? (120107b) Somalia: Mogadishu
continues to suffer greatly, fighting continues and the
possibility that the war might widen cannot
be overlooked as the US proxy-bully in the region has,
perhaps, bitten off more than it can chew.
(112907j) And the Greater Islamic Eastern Theater: -
India - Russia - China - South East Asia Russia: Russia
begins a build up "in response" to NATO's moves.
Nuclear weapons have readiness improved and so forth
(112507g) Drought is the unheralded marker of global
climate change. This
report highlights some incidents world wide. But the
question is, what does a metropolitan region of 4.5 million
people DO when that tap is tapped out? (112507h) I guess this is someone's plan for the future. The
article talks about the disappearing of Canada, but it
should really read the Disappearing of America.
(112907) For an overview of what is going on see
the August Review posted by 11/29/07. I guess covering the
basics. (112907c) How
fares the dollar? Not well it seems. If logic and
history be a guide the dollars days as "king of the hill"
are numbered, the only question remains: how long?
(112507j) So
stories of budgetary items that can be described as large
scale "holding sites" for people are being built. One can
hold over a half million persons. Question is what
is the need? Original stories said they created to be used
in the event that large numbers of persons needed to be
deported. So what's up? (112707c) Faith
Based Spending, one hears little about this "legacy" of the
Global Village Idiot's policy but it is here
nonetheless. (112507e) What WAS that pesky
"church and state" stuff in the constitution anyway? What
is the "Fascist Shift" that Naomi Wolf believes it is "on
track" in America? This brief interviews gives one
an idea that we are in a dangerous time.
(112507f) How
they explain themselves. Explain away rights and liberties
and those who would resist. (112907g) A survey
of news reporters in Iraq gives hints as to why the coverage
such as it is, is as it is (112897b) What
did the US get for 500 billion dollars and about a half
million incarcerated? Not much it seems if the
purpose of the "War on Drugs" was supposed to eliminate
availability and abuse. (120107d) So here is the six part Rolling Stone article that gives
all the details and fills in the picture sketched in the
above story
Part one (120107e) Part
two (120107f) Part
three (120107g) Part
four (120107h) Part
five (120107i) Part
six (120107j) And that's all
folks….. How
it was supposed to be done, Israel and Palestine, how it was
done and some slight hope that
An
"outsider's" view of the Great War. One might take
issue with some items but the upshot is clear, the Great War
isn't going so great. (120307b) An
empire in decline? That is the point being made.
Some mysteries of the cold war are exposed and the picture
isn't pretty. (120707d) Destroying evidence, the
CIA
somehow gets tied up in explaining itself while others are
glad to have a chance to make hay while the moon shines
too. (120707b) Apparently the JerkAHolic Administration of the
US has told England that it is perfectly OK to kidnap,
anyone for any crime. It was once thought that this
prerogative applied only to terrorists, but oh ho! No
longer! (120307f) Well, Europe, both "old" and "new" lets
Condigirl
put her hands down their pants when it "comes" to Iran's
nuke issue, doesn't it. (120607g) Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Gaza -
Israel-Lebanon-Palestine Read
a bit of Tutu. It is good for the soul.
(120207f) How US policy vis a vis the nukes in Iran
and Israel have
strained relations with those that are usually held to be
our allies. (120807a) Israel: Israel
is not moved by the "Non nuke" report on Iran. Same o, same
o. (120707f) Lebanon: Lebanon
finds some partial solution to its problem, a military
leader? (120207a) Greater" Muddle Eastern Theater: Turkey - Syria
- Jordan - Egypt Turkey: The headline talks about a
Turkish attack into Iraq, but the details are vague, then it
segues into other issues related, it seems, only to Iraq
illustrating that nation's unstable central
government. (120207b) Greater Islamic Region: Western Theater: Saudi
Arabia - Iraq - Iran - Pakistan - Afghanistan Afghanistan: A
raging battle to retake a city the Taliban have held for
several months. (120807b) Iraq: A
look at the Battle of Basra, where 80% of Iraq's oil is
located. Several interested parties are vying for
their share as the Brits pull out saying "All is well, now.
Our job is done" (120707e) The Surge is the touted reason for the decline in
violence, but as I've said before other reasons allow
a "confluence
of influence" and these other factors are not stable, each
allows a chance for destabilizing effects
(120507c) In an
interview one of the resistance in Iraq say that it is
regrouping perhaps to wait out the surge
(120307c) More
good news from Iraq according to the commanding US
general (120607h) Iran: Pragmatics are looked at, Bush
the Dumpers' "approach" to Iran does not seem to be informed
by information, logic, rationale or even the security
interests of the US itself. (120707d) Iran
is NOT determined to get nukes? That's our own government
talking, not Bush mind, he STILL believes it IS so.
No matter the war with Iran may be based on the attacks in
Iraq, which, oopsie, are also down, even from militants
"associated" with Iran, well, uh. Maybe bugger boy should
just punt? (120307a) So, one would think that Bush the Lesser would then
moderate his rhetoric regarding Iran, but you'd be
wrong. The
Jackass in Chief continues his farting mouth
ways. (120407a) And
Bush the Lesser says "I didn't know", well, that's just
B---s--- as they say, (120607b) How this intel flap has repercussions around the
globe and for
those involved in the Iranian issue, such as China and
Russia. (120607d) Part two the
detail and how other nations have to learn the new
dance (120607e) Of course the
Pentagon and Dickless Cheney have no reason to reassess or
change their planning or not planning as the case
may be. (120707a) And the funny thing is that Bush
KNEW about the report for a LONG time yet he still managed
to APPEAR surprised in recent other news worthy
comments (120507b) But the paradigm shift is played, now
the line is that Iran simply cannot be trusted with nuclear
technology whatsoever at all. (120507d) And this take on the story, what is the upshot? I think
the
US intel community is overtly firing back at the Great
Dimwad himself and making things "hard" for the poor
intelligence challenged individual.
(120507e) Iran
does an abrupt about face and puts the kibosh on previous
discussions regarding its nuclear program. The terms
used were quite strong and some called the talks a
disaster. (I20207c) Pakistan How
to rig an election, step one, prevent your opponent from
running. Sounds like good old US democracy in
action-I guess that's why we like Mushmouth so much!
(120307d) A look at what
is nagging everyone who is "in the know" these days, what OF
the nukes? (120207d) Part
two:
the plan to make those nukes "loose"
(120207e) Asia and the Greater Islamic Eastern
Theater: - India - Russia - China - South East
Asia Korea: Russia: Just
a side note really, democracy "comes of age" in Russia.
It is harsh but then it is Putin and he'll have his way
with the country and the world, it seems.
(120307e) Climate
change and carbon dioxide emissions both pick up pace and
exceed what was expected, even in recent studies.
Reality is outpacing research. (120207g) Part two,
some
talk of growing political will, but will it be in time?
(120207h) Here
is a another report indicating how far behind research is
from reality, a certain change is going on right now
that was supposed to come about decades from now.
(120207i) The
Homegrown Terrorism Prevention Act of 2007. A bit of
Orwellian history here and newspeak
(120207j) Are
the neo-cons "down and out"? Maybe they are and maybe
they're not. (120607c) A
prediction that since housing losses reached a peak in the
July-September quarter we might see a recession next
year. But prior articles stated it has not peaked. Who
knows. (120607a) A
primer in the American concentration camp program,
Haliburton is in the lead of this effort, how reassuring,
(120507a) Habeas
Corpus regarding the Guantanamo detainees reaches the
supreme court (120407b) Interesting
read and responses. Reads like a who' who gabfest
though (120407d) An
exemplar of how a major news outlets "cover" Iraq, they
really do a job, honest (120407c) What
would be the "best reason" to grant a corporate charter?
This brief answers that question
(120807c)
Keith Olberman gives it to the Dimwad in Chief, again.
If
you've never read his commentary check this one out, it is a
doozy…. (120907a) This article talks about how the CIA often gets it
wrong through history, and while this may be some
consolation to those who are against the
"new" NIE on Iran this is a two edged sword that cuts both
ways (121007g) How
the NIE for Iran is being played in EuroLand, is there any
change? Nada, nope, nil, none, nix etc… one
almost wonders why. (121007g) Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Gaza -
Israel-Lebanon-Palestine Gaza: The squeeze on Gaza continues and life gets tougher
and tougher.
I wonder how long it will take before something "breaks" and
we see some kind of change. (121007d) Israel: The
repercussions here regarding the "new" Iran NIE has everyone
huffing and puffing about the place
(121007e) It says there are
hundreds if not thousands of housing units already approved
for construction in Jerusalem, fueling a controversy
but plans go ahead (121107e) Greater Islamic Region: Western Theater:
Afghanistan - Iran - Iraq - Pakistan - Saudi Arabia
From the every "balanced" WSJ comes
the opinion piece that there exists, among Iran's neighbors,
a goodly reservoir of private concern and anxiety"
concerning Iran. The piece goes on to detail
some of Iran's ties with the region and suggests that the
Gulf States, together, could knock out Iran's nukes with air
strikes of their own. Not that that is likely, however,
religion being what it is and pragmatics following from
that, still good info here (120907c) Iraq: The
myth of progress, is seen in the relative calm in the
country, but our "propaganda" and media management
continue to present us with a reality as we like it
(121307c) An
indication of another power struggle getting underway Sunni
on Sunni, it seems (121307b) A
report of a mutiny, that was "understandable" read it
here (121307a) Something
of an up-tick in attacks around Baghdad. I'll take
a wait and see attitude before asserting the existence of a
trend (121107a What
is the Mahdi Army up to these days? (121107b)
They
seem to be mixing it up a bit and making plans
(121107c) And
some sorting out to do, right now calm seems to work for
everyone (121107d) Controversy
over the NIE for Iran, the new one, the one the
neo-cons couldn't switch out and reconfigure at will.
(121007a) So
what is up with Kikurk? This is the news, some "integration"
in the ruling of the area is "on the table" and talks are
happening, however the Kurds are returning, still,
by the thousands and so "the problem" still remains.
(121007f) Iran: We wonder whether or not this is true. If
the Iranians are already cashing out of the dollar and that
IS some sort of threat to the US petrodollar monopoly then
what IS our next "rationale" response to them?
(120907e) Meanwhile the polls say that the
people say Iran is going for nuclear weapons and that they
are a threat. Seems like the propaganda machine is doing its
job. (121007b) Pakistan The "Horn of Africa Another war looming?
Eritrea seems to be willing to stand up and fight, at least
with words now and maybe "other things" later.
(121307f) And how does this "story" play out in the broader
context? The
peoples of the region and the Muslim "street" view this as
another poorly planned war against them waged by the
US (121507b) Another example of how modeling predictions are
being outpaced by reality. Arctic
melting is occurring much faster than research can account
for (121307e) The
climate change is underway already and we'll suffer even if
we put on "the brakes right now and hand" that's my
translation of this well organized article, well worth the
read (121107f) Meanwhile oil companies, eyeing the price of a barrel of
crude, see profits in the tar sands of Canada
despite the physics which have such extraction contributing
significantly to global warming, before the oil is
even processed into fuels and used. (121107g) How has American society changed in the last 30 or so
years? An
important factor is the "mobility myth". Americans still
believe that hard work and good character will allow one to
rise in the world, however that is not reality. Our
society is, overall, stagnant and stratified thanks to
conservative attacks over the years that have created a
risky environment that penalizes poverty and so perpetuates
it. (121107h) A
look at the election of 2008 with some perspective of
history and patterns. (121007i) Part
two, here's
more on that (121007k) What
limits are placed upon the US government or its agencies for
spying on US citizens overseas? None. What are the
limits that this president accepts? Uh, none. "The
Department of Justice is bound by the President's legal
determinations." Great quote no? (120907b) Comparing
Al Gore to Jerry Lewis in the film Nutty Professor when
reporting on the awarding of the Nobel Prize? Sound
incredible well CNN is the station where "anything goes" and
courage is not lacking and so forth and so on.
(121007c) Check out this report that was censored.
It explains how vaccines made by Merk, a large
pharmaceutical company, have all sorts of "surprises" them.
Polio vaccines and others for example.
(120907d) Admittedly a bit of an "out there" story but
then what if? Understanding the nature of a "Central Bank" is important
to all American citizens. Start looking into what it is
"exactly" and then raise a fuss. Find out what these guys
were so upset about If the American people ever allow private banks to
control the issue of their currency, first by inflation,
then by deflation, the banks...will deprive the people of
all property until their children wake-up homeless on the
continent their fathers conquered... The issuing power
should be taken from the banks and restored to the people,
to whom it properly belongs." President, Thomas
Jefferson History records that money changers have used every form
of abuse, intrigue, deceit, and violent means possible to
maintain their control over governments by controlling money
and its issuance." President, James Madison "The Government should create, issue, and circulate all
the currency and credits needed to satisfy the spending
power of the Government and the buying power of consumers.
By the adoption of these principles, the taxpayers will be
saved immense sums of interest." Abraham Lincoln "You are a den of vipers and thieves. I intend to rout
you out, and by the Eternal God, I will rout you out... If
people only understood the rank injustice of the money and
banking system, there would be a revolution by morning."
Andrew Jackson
How
might an Al Qaida "year end review" sound? Well,
read this article to see what 2007 has wrought.
(122007e) I like the
convenience of reading headlines and there are a bunch in
today's, 12/19/07, Reuters, for example you can see
some good news regarding the housing crisis, Morgan Stanley
gets "support" from China, homeowners find little relief and
foreclosures are down, albeit slightly. We get some "horse
race" coverage from Iowa: Obama, Clinton, Huckabee …
yawn. Israeli housing in J'lem draws "fire" and France
embellishes its US "lapdog" status regarding Syrian
involvement with Lebanon. (121807f) Four
big time Admin. Legalbeagles took part in the Waterboard
tape discussions. I find that interesting.
(121807g) One wonders how what they've said so far
will juxtapose with the truth whenever we DO learn about
it Also
law suits regarding extraordinary rendition are popping
up (121807h) As
I said, popping. (121807i) Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Gaza -
Israel-Lebanon-Palestine Gaza: If
hundreds of thousands of supporters rallying to Hamas isn't
an indication of its solid support I don't know what
is. There is the promise, in this article, of
continuing violence and bloodshed. (121807o) Israel: Something
of a setback for those Israelis who want to build more homes
in Jerusalem (122007a) Greater" Muddle Eastern"
Theater: Egypt-Jordan - Kurdistan Syria - Turkey
- Kurdistan/Turkey: Turkish
air raids strike into Kurdistan. The description has it that
US intel helped guide the raid,
civilians were killed as well as some rebels. I suspect
that the "limitations" of this kind of tactic will be the
same as that Israel faces with the Palestinians, that is to
say there may well be a good measure of collateral damage
and this may be counterproductive. Time will tell
(121707a) It says, significantly, that the US gave the
Turks permission to do the raid, not Baghdad. Part two:
the
collateral damages
(121707b) Greater Islamic Region: Eastern
Theater: Afghanistan - Iran - Iraq - Pakistan - Saudi
Arabia Regarding the story below from
Kyrgyzstan,
one can see from this one here that US policy regarding
democratization is consistent, fair and effective,
NOT
(121707e) Afghanistan: An
example of how the fighting "goes" in Afghanistan.
(121607d) These
two reports constitute a devastating indictment of the Bush
administration's invasion,
which has compounded, not alleviated the crisis facing
the Afghan population.(121807j) As winter settles in the country is
divided
no matter the recent victory touted in the press, the net
summary of 2007 may well read: stalemate, overall,
with the gains possibly
favoring the insurgents (121707k) Iraq: Another
change in strategy, this
one has troop concentrations remaining high in Baghdad while
outlying regions have reductions. This is because the
decline in violence allows the surge to end and some
shifting to take place. We shall see.
(121607b) Iran: Russian
made nuclear fuel arrives in Iran.
The US says now they don't
need to enrich, Iran says it does, still and will. So this
change in tactics has not garnered the desired result, oh
well, back to the drawing board. (121707f) Kyrgyzstan: This
ally of the US, host to our military and once democratic
nation now has a "unanimous" representative body.
How democratic of them
and my how time changes in the wild west.
(121707c) Pakistan: A
suicide bomber kills 9 soldiers, suicide bombings have
become "part of the political
reality" and rumors of
an alliance among the resistance which has given a 10 day
notice to the government, time will tell
(121707d) The "Horn of Africa One does not have to read long to see the import of
this
simple article detailing the meeting of a legislative body
for a nation that should be a part of Somaliland, but
apparently does not think that it is. More chaos in
the "horn of Africa:"? Seems so (121807c) And this story of some 14 years ago, while Bush the first
ruled the US, indicates
that there is an "oil issue" in the background of Somalia's
problems anyone surprised? (121807d) And in case you want the skinny on the current
"situation" as of a few months ago, I mean to say the "why"
of it, here is an article covering the
"covert" US support which included giving an OK for Ethiopia
to buy North Korean weapons, amazing that last bit, no?
(121807e) Asia and the Greater Islamic Eastern Theater: -
India - Russia - China - South East Asia China: China
making more moves, expanding its influence into heretofore
"virgin' territory, namely Afghanistan. (121607e)
while India, shacked to the US policies regarding the
region is loosing out. Part two
oddments and details (121607f) demonstrate
the costs of "doing business:" Again, another
story on the housing mess, the dollar and China's policy
regarding buying our debt-are they caught in
a financial trap? (121607c) Peacekeeping missions for the big C are happening and
this seems to be a part of China
becoming a "global player", a role the US
might have issues with (122007c) Part two,
here is some thinking on the thinking behind these "moves"
(122007d) I had read an article recently which stated that
the
only ice mass on earth that was gaining mass was Antarctica,
however this article says the exact opposite.
Computer models had predicted that there would be gains on
the icy continent and snowfall continues but so does an
increase in the melt water (121807a) Just
a detailed look at the global credit conditions as inflation
seems to be running quite a bit higher, in many
places, and the bubbles, which "need" to be managed
continue to build inflationary pressure all the while
undermining the value of currency-sound like fun to you?
(122007f) Part two, someone
can make sense of the numbers but losses totaling
hundreds of billions can't be ignored.
(122007g) Part three, more
and more figures … (122007h) Mercury
being injected into millions over the years, long after it
was known that mercury is not good for us?
The practice continued after it was exposed and after a few
thousand law suits followed suit which had Merck say it
ceased the practice, well, what up wid dat sheeeeit, oh mah
brutha! (121707m) In
1991 the problem was known, well known and well not at all
known, was it? (121707n) Here is a brief and
recent history of the issue via the headlines and
introductory paragraphs of a number of stories.
(121707o) And another set of articles which indicate that the fight
continues and mercury
still moves in the "health care products" pipeline,
I mean nasal sprays??? (121707p) Welcome to the Intel-internet-telecom-state.
A
place where every communicant has his or her file and every
file an earmark. You too are being monitored.
(121707i) The article has one glaring error,
it claims that we basically still have freedoms, that we
elect our representatives, well, do we? When more than 30%
of the machines used in the last presidential election were
"suspect" and when there were many, many cases of fraud that
were simply ignored. My God what have we become/ If unions are a counterbalance to business interests
then
the Bushwhackoff team has made war on the unions one of
its priorities with big time successes
(122007j) Here is an interesting data point for you,
"how
to win an election" talks about the 2002 New Hampshire phone
bank scandal and the guy who was "thrown under the bus" is
talking real shit! (121807k) But
then you can always just bug the system from the get go
and then hack it to pieces altering an election and
leaving no trace … nice work if you can get it.
(121807n) Bush
Admin goes the "extra yard" to protect itself, congress, law
and justice be damned. (121707g) A second story, the
Negroponte Memo, what is it, where is it, and why its so
important to this case, if it is a case
(121707h) It
seems everyone is in on this act, the CIA's disappeared
tapes, a prezydick gone bananas along with a
congress and the courts who all seem to have forgotten the
rule of law and, "the American way" (121607a) The "bombshell" that was not heard. A
look at the most likely effect that G.W. Jackass will leave
as a legacy. Get your calculators ready (121807l)
And
then there is this, a quick overview of the facts
(121807m) A tad more on the housing-banking-wall St-dollar value
crises …
what's another 30 billion among fellow capitalist
war-mongering, running dog jackal, paper tiger
… etc … etc … usw (122007b) Only if you have not had your breakfast, or any other
meal for that matter,
should you read this examination of what passes for election
coverage. Amazing is the only word that describes the
decline and fall of the American press corps. Or
should I write the American Press Corpse?
(121707l) Keith Olbermann, over the years I've referenced several
of his stories, the
one that is referenced early on in this article which
profiles the man and gives a bit of his history and how he
came to be "on the scene" (121707q)
This wins the "that's not at all good" category of
news events for this week, maybe even this year or
decade, I mean Bhutto's
assassination. It was, apparently meant to look
like the work solely of the suicide bomber, but the cause of
death was a bullet. (122707a) Part Two,
the usual people, leaders, say the usual things, but
many in the country blame Mushmouth (122707b) Part
three, Sharif another Mushmouth competitor pays
his respect but even
his followers are not immune from being shot at and
pressured. (122707c) Impacting
the US GWOT effort, remember that acronym, is the
deteriorating status of the US. One reason is what
this article calls "US exceptionalism" (122407a) In
the two major theaters of this war, Iraq and Afghanistan the
air war is escalating, particularly in Afghanistan,
no one, it seems, is paying attention. (122307e) And
the wars continue on, but few hear about them or even know
where the countries are. (122307f) So,
what
went so darned wrong with this great war such that it isn't
so great anymore, more of a spreading malaise and
waste .. .hmmm? (122507g) Central Muddle Eastern Theater: Gaza -
Israel-Lebanon-Palestine Lebanon: Greater Islamic Region: Eastern
Theater: Afghanistan - Iran - Iraq - Pakistan - Saudi
Arabia Iraq: The "Iraq Today" blog for Wed. 12/26/07 has a coverage of
news. Rumblings
between Iran, the US, Turkey, Kurdistan, and other related
places keep tensions high although violence has dropped to a
lower level, for now. (122607h) The "Anbar Awakening" as its been called, has it
limitations, who really controls them? Well, nominally the
US does, but
on the streets the reality is a bit different and therein
lay the rub (122407e) What is called the
Iraqi government, does not trust these folks, probably
for good reason and so the question, which was asked when
the program began, what
is the plan for integrating these forces into the
"legitimate" forces of Iraq? (122407f) But
here are the graphs which show the decline in violence even
as the article attributes the cause to various effects.
As I've said before such data will only allow Bush the
Dumber to crow about successes and thus encourage that
portion of his cabal lusting after some definitive action
against Iran (122407i) Attacks
are still down but occasionally, well, they up tick.
(122307b) Again, the Kurds, again a
look at northern Iraq and what may be something of a powder
keg getting all set to go (122307c) Iran: We
may have been getting "help" from Iran, so this article
says, and well, what if it's true? Well, it makes
The Dumber look, well, dumber. (122307a) Then
again, maybe we are NOT getting help … or maybe
Iran has many actors on the "stage" called Iraq as does the
Iraqi government and so there is room for confusion
(122407g) Pakistan: Rioting continues, and
the PPP accuses the Mushmouth government of lying about the
cause of death and of poor security precautions.
(122907a) Violence
erupts, of course, it is widespread and "being dealt
with" (122807e)l AQ
takes credit for Bhutto's death? Corroboration seems to come
from Pakistani "intelligence" concerning a nation
wide network of cells operating with the purpose of
eliminating pro-western leaders (122807d) Other
stories allege the opposite, but in a world of "image" and
"sound bites" who knows? And
here is a brief look at the rather long list of possible
suspects in this assassination. (122707g)
It
seems there was no autopsy done, that there are varying
accounts of the gunfire and the cause of death
… so … lingering problems will haunt the country
and, like as not, fuel sectarian like conflict
(122807f) Stories
such as this one indicate that in the chaos of the event
there was room for various kinds of possibilities.
Who did it will be debated and fought over, probably.
(122807c) The
largest bit of fallout from the Bhutto assassination is
Sharif pulling his party out of the election. What
kind of vacuum now exists? Who will fill it? What will the
reaction be? Only time will tell. (122707d) The "Horn of Africa And
another report on the build up of military forces on both
sides of the Eritrean-Ethiopian border. The border
commission was not allowed to mark the border decided upon
and both sides appear confident. (122507f) Asia and the Greater Islamic Theater: - India -
Russia - China - South East Asia Russia
and Iran seem to "get it together" and between the two of
them they hold a good chunk of the worlds gas and
oil. (122507b) and so it seems like the US
and EU both have some "dealing to do" with serious
competitors Part two,
2007 a real winner of a year for Russia, a loss for the US
and the Iran factor (122507c) Russia: Putin's youth groups? Sound familiar: "We're talking
here about a
civilized protection racket," he says, cool as ice. "If they
don't give us money, we attack them."
(122507a) Arctic walrus populations are threatened by the same
changes in the arctic ice that threaten polar bears.
The
"slow motion" changers are described as a "death spiral"
by observers who've seen some recent die offs.
(122407d) When people vote with their feet you have a "true"
poll.
It seems the US economy is slowing and many illegal
immigrants are "self-deporting". While figures cannot be
exact the article describes a trend. What will come
of it is anyone's guess, perhaps some businesses will
"follow their workers" reducing further the opportunities
for American citizens or the affected companies will up
their prices if those replacing the immigrants require
better wages to work in the US and to manage its "cost of
living" (122407b) An interview, or rather a report on
an interview with the leader of Ecuador who seems to make
waves for those interested in profiting off the sorrow of
others (122407l) Zapatistas
have a calling and it may be that Mexico is preparing to
rout them (122307g) Keeping it all simple housing
and the dollar both have a bad week and a bad year.
The question is how bad will it get next year? The trillion
dollar question (122608a) Taking a
large scale view of macro economics, this article cites
central bank managers and others who see danger signs for
the upcoming year (122407m) Part two,
an
array of facts, figures, charts and graphs illuminate the
size of the problem (122407n) Part
three, so what's
a few trillion between neighbors? That IS the question the
EU may have to answer if the dumping of credit does
not stamp out the threat of a credit crunch driven downward
spiral. (122407o) Read this and weep: "Employers and some unions contend
that retirees under 65 have a greater need for
employer-sponsored health benefits because they are
generally not Medicare-eligible. Large employers have often
provided some health benefits to retirees 65 and older, to
help cover costs not paid by Medicare. But employers
have for years been trying to reduce retiree benefits or to
shift more of the cost to retirees" (122707f)
Well, they have succeeded as US ruling backs benefit cuts at
age 65 in their retiree plans, wunnerful and amazing, yes?
Just
the first page of the story, a peek at the "Gospel of
Wealth" and a look at one who suffered the cost of
her belief. (122707e) This is part and parcel to the
Religious Rights funding source, I believe. Mitt
Romney, the candidate accepts few or no limits on
presidential power. He is serious about this. And
he is a leading Repuglican candidate, how wunnerful is that?
(122407j) The housing mess, and our
Dumbell led administration have created an opportunity for
foreign buyers of US houses as the value of the dollar
declines "bargains" appear (122407c) What
makes some people so darned angry at Bush? Well
here is a well reasoned, even "fair and balanced" look at a
laundry list worth it reminiscence (122807g) especially
if you are a conservative. Bush
as a war criminal? That is the thesis of this
simple article, the comments are worth the perusal, if you
are patient. (122507d) Re:
the CIA's erased tapes - so how come no one is asking who
lied? Apparently, long before the tapes were
destroyed investigating justices asked if there were any
tapes, many who should have known said nothing-someone lied,
the question is who? (122307d) A
bit about New Orleans and the loss of public housing stock.
(122307h) How to not report a story, well, you COULD simply not
report it. Hows
about that for hard hitting journalistic balls?
(122407k)
12/08/07
12/15/07
2/22/07
12/29/07