10:10pm MDST
You Don't Need To Be A Career Politician To Run For Office... But There ARE Worse Things Than Career Politicians
It isn't only the KKK and American Nazis who have been inspired by Trump's candidacy. All kinds of egomaniacs with gigantic senses of entitlement and self-importance want to run for office as well. Kanye West must have thought that if Trump can get as far as he is, how hard could it be? And this week we have Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban, who says his policy positions aren't the same as Trump's but-- I love the fact that he has changed the game… The idea of imperfect candidates with forceful ideas opens the door for a lot of people that would not have previously run. Like so... more »
CNN Debate...
*I heard a rumor.* Yes I did. I heard through a very dependable rumor mill that Ted Cruz attended the "debate." Anyone else hear that?
Baltimore Illusionist Hospitalized after Stunt Goes Wrong
[image: illusionist] Baltimore illusionist Spencer Horsman is rushed to the hospital while trying to escape the same water torture stunt that nearly killed him in June. Marcus Washington and WJZ's cameraman were just feet away when paramedics pulled his limp body from... Continue reading *“Baltimore Illusionist Hospitalized after Stunt Goes Wrong”* at *baltimore.cbslocal.com*.
U.S. Training Helped Mold Top ISIS Commander (Jeremy Corbyn Being Slimed for Being Anti-War/Anti-Austerity/Pro-Refugee?) 9/11 Truth Movement Says Honor Victims by Questioning Official Narrative That Ignores Contemporaneous Exercises: Amalgam Virgo, Global and Vigilant Guardian (Banks Shouldn't Get Out of Bed Today?)
Batirashvili’s battlefield successes, including orchestrating the capture of Syria’s Menagh Air Base after two years of failed attempts, “helped to legitimize ISIS in militant circles, including in the North Caucasus,” Cecire said. “Batirashvili’s ability to demonstrate ISIS’ tactical prowess attracted fighters in droves from other factions and tipped the scales in foreign fighter flow and
More Details On The Killing Of The Islamic State Leader's Deputy By U.S. And British Special Forces Has Been Released
Assault: A Yazidi girl kidnapped by ISIS's oil chief Abu Sayyaf has revealed in detail, how US and British special forces raided his house and killed the extremist *Daily Mail*: *Inside the only SAS and Delta Force raid on an ISIS leader: How Baghdadi deputy was shot twice in the chest as he grabbed gun and his wife pretended to be a Yazidi sex slave in cowardly bid to evade capture* * British and American special forces raided Abu Sayyaf's hideout on May 16 * They rescued Yazidi teenager who has told the story of their daring assault * US bombarded complex in eastern Syria with mac... more »
DEBATE FACT CHECK: So, Did Trump Ask Jeb for Casinos in Florida or Not?
[image: trump and jeb bush__cropped] During the Republican primary on Wednesday night, Former Florida governor Jeb Bush and Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump got into a heated exchange about whether Trump tried to bribe Bush to allow casinos in Florida. Bush, as a policy, has... Continue reading *“DEBATE FACT CHECK: So, Did Trump Ask Jeb for Casinos in Florida or Not?”* at *businessinsider.com*.
Better Than Chemo: Turmeric Kills Cancer Not Patients
*Sayer Ji* - Researchers from the United Kingdom have just made a major breakthrough in cancer research. The post Better Than Chemo: Turmeric Kills Cancer Not Patients appeared first on Waking Times.
The Poet: Samuel Taylor Coleridge, "What If You Slept"
*"What If You Slept"* "What if you slept, And what if In your sleep You dreamed, And what if In your dream You went to heaven And there plucked a strange and beautiful flower, And what if When you awoke You had that flower in your hand? Ah, what then?" - Samuel Taylor Coleridge
"A Look to the Heavens"
“The well known Pleiades star cluster is slowly destroying part of a passing cloud of gas and dust. The Pleiades is the brightest open cluster of stars on Earth's sky and can be seen from almost any northerly location with the unaided eye. *Click image for larger size.* The passing young dust cloud is thought to be part of Gould's belt, an unusual ring of young star formation surrounding the Sun in the local Milky Way Galaxy. Over the past 100,000 years, part of Gould's belt is by chance moving right through the older Pleiades and is causing a strong reaction between stars and dust. ... more »
Chet Raymo, “The Radiance Of What Is”
*“The Radiance Of What Is”* by Chet Raymo “In the summer of 1936, as I nestled snug in my mother's womb, Fortune magazine sent the young writer James Agee and the photographer Walker Evans to rural Alabama to report on how the Great Depression was affecting the poorest of the poor. For eight weeks they lived with three impoverished sharecropper families. (Pictured below is the family of Bud Fields. Click to enlarge.) Their combined work never appeared in Fortune, but it was published as a book- “Let Us Now Praise Famous Men”- in 1941. The book was not an immediate success, but dec...more »
Kahlil Gibran, "A Poets Voice"
*"A Poets Voice"* by Kahlil Gibran “You are my brother, but why are you quarreling with me? Why do you invade my country and try to subjugate me for the sake of pleasing those who are seeking glory and authority? Why do you leave your wife and children and follow Death to the distant land for the sake of those who buy glory with your blood, and high honor with your mother's tears? Is it an honor for a man to kill his brother man? If you deem it an honor, let it be an act of worship, and erect a temple to Cain who slew his brother Abel. Is self-preservation the first law of Natur... more »
The Torus and Magnetic Fusion in the Ancient Rig Veda
*V. Susan Ferguson* - Magnetic confinement fusion technology was around in the ancient days as evidenced in the ancient texts. The post The Torus and Magnetic Fusion in the Ancient Rig Veda appeared first on Waking Times.
"Life..."
"Life is an end in itself, and the only question as to whether it is worth living is whether you have had enough of it." - Oliver Wendell Holmes, Jr.
"A Gathering of the Tribe"
"A Gathering of the Tribe" by Charles Eisenstein "Once upon a time a great tribe of people lived in a world far away from ours. Whether far away in space, or in time, or even outside of time, we do not know. They lived in a state of enchantment and joy that few of us today dare to believe could exist, except in those exceptional peak experiences when we glimpse the true potential of life and mind. One day the shaman of the tribe called a meeting. They gathered around him, and he spoke very solemnly. "My friends," he said, "there is a world that needs our help. It is called Earth,... more »
"The Philosophy Of Being"
* "The Philosophy Of Being"* By E D Detetcheverrie "Outrageous to some, clarifying for others, a strange conversation meant to provoke further thought... Now I know why they explain it in metaphors. The truth seems surreal. We are inadequate to describe it concisely. Ask not if you have strayed from the path; there is only one path, one way, and you are always on it... *Do they call it enlightenment because there is a light?* It is not mere photons, and light is only one part of it. *Who is in charge of it all?* Yes, we are. *Do the wicked receive their just reward?* We shall all, u... more »
The Daily "Near You?"
Jonquière, Quebec, Canada. Thanks for stopping by.
"We Like To Think..."
"We like to think that we are rational beings; humane, conscientious, civilized, thoughtful. But when things fall apart, even just a little, it becomes clear we are not better than animals. We have opposable thumbs, we think, we walk erect, we speak, we dream, but deep down we are still routing around in the primordial ooze; biting, clawing, scratching out an existence in the cold, dark world like the rest of the tree-toads and sloths." - "Grey's Anatomy"
Rip-off News round-up. Our pick of the last week's media (Thu 17th September)
Revenue & Customs 'winding down' inquiries into HSBC Swiss tax evaders HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) reopened its investigation into British customers of HSBC Suisse in February, but has failed to add to the single prosecution of a tax cheat from the bank. The disclosures have dismayed MPs who had pressed for further action over the HSBC files, which were first handed to HMRC five years ago.
"11 Things Everyone Needs You to Know"
*"11 Things Everyone Needs You to Know"* by Marc "A silhouette of a human being stands before you. Perhaps an old friend. Perhaps a neighbor. Perhaps a perfect stranger, like me. Here are 11 things we all need you to keep in mind… * 1.* *You never really know how much the people around you are hurting.* You could be standing next to someone who is completely broken inside and you wouldn’t even know it. So never deprive someone of hope; it might be all they have. And remember that there are two ways to spread light in this world: You can either be a flame of hope, or a mirror tha... more »
The Poet: David Wagoner, "Getting There"
* "Getting There"* "You take a final step and, look, suddenly You're there. You've arrived At the one place all your drudgery was aimed for: This common ground Where you stretch out, pressing your cheek to sandstone. What did you want to be? You'll remember soon. You feel like tinder under a burning glass, A luminous point of change. The sky is pulsing against the cracked horizon, Holding it firm till the arrival of stars In time with your heartbeats. Like wind etching rock, you've made a lasting impression On the self you were, By having come all this way through all this welter Unde... more »
"The Essential Thing..."
"The most important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle. The essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well." - Pierre de Courbertin
"What is the Measure of a Life?"
*"What is the Measure of a Life?"* by David B. Seaburn "In the early to mid-1970s when I was leaving college and entering seminary I came upon the writing of Sam Keen, a professor of philosophy, theology and, well, life. His book "Apology for Wonder" (1969) was written on the heels of the God-is-dead movement that captivated the mid-1960s, something that never reached the western Pennsylvania town where I grew up Presbyterian. Despite missing God’s death, I found Keen’s focus on wonder and meaning and gratitude to be refreshing whether God was the source or not. Recently, I redisc... more »
Today's U.S. Senate Hearing On The War Against The Islamic State Revealed That U.S. War Strategy Has Completely Failed
*Nancy A. Youssef & Tim Mak, Daily Beast:* *Obama’s General Just Set His ISIS War Plan on Fire* Even the Pentagon was wincing as a top general fumbled the most basic questions about the Obama administration’s strategy to combat ISIS. In the span of two hours, the cornerstone of the U.S. strategy toward the self-proclaimed Islamic State in Iraq and Syria crumbled—loudly, and in public. Testifying before the Senate Armed Services Committee, the general in charge of the war effort made clear that the U.S. strategy for arming “moderate” Syrian fighters had failed. Of the thousands of... more »
Biden Visits Los Angeles to Court Hollywood Donors
[image: biden] Air Force 2 has landed at LAX and Vice-President Joe Biden is on the move - because the freeway and parts of Santa Monica Blvd are closed down. After flying into Anaheim earlier today from D.C. to give a speech,... Continue reading *“Biden Visits Los Angeles to Court Hollywood Donors”* at *deadline.com*.
The RAN Hobart UFO Incident
So, I’m making a search of the various cable channels looking for something interesting and stumble onto another of those UFO mockumentaries. This was one had a segment about a UFO attack on the Royal Australian Navy destroyer, *Hobart*, during the Vietnam War. The ship was hit by three missiles killing two, wounding several and scattering debris throughout the ship. The cleanup uncovered bits of an American made missile that was traced to a couple of Air Force units flying F-4 Phantoms that for some unknown reason were referred to as Phantoms, F-4, in the program. Investigation of ... more »
Early GOP Debate Features Forceful Exchanges, Questions about Trump
[image: CNN GOP Debate undercard- 900 000] SIMI VALLEY, Calif. (AP) -- The four Republican presidential candidates who didn’t make the cut for the 11-person prime-time GOP debate met Wednesday for an undercard event at the Ronald Reagan presidential library, each searching for a breakout moment. George... more »
Coup Under-way In Burkina Faso
*Reuters:* *Burkina Faso presidential guard seize president and PM* Soldiers fired warning shots to disperse hundreds of protesters outside Burkina Faso's presidential palace on Wednesday after the presidential guard burst into a cabinet meeting and arrested the interim president, stirring fears of a military coup. The presidential guard gave no explanation for its move, which came less than a month before an election due to complete a transition back to democracy after a popular uprising toppled Burkina's long-time ruler last year. The guard, known as the RSP, was a key pillar o... more »
You can tell this prep school is The Donald's alma mater -- it's bankrupt
*By The Donald's own testimony, New York Military Academy in Croton on Hudson, NY, helped make him, er, what he is today. And, oh yes, it's gone bankrupt.* *"The academy was at one time seen by New Yorkers as a place that straightened out rambunctious young boys and taught them how to take orders. (Hmmm. Apparently failed in Trump’s case.)"* *-- the *Washington Post*'s Al Kamen, in* "Trump’s high school is bankrupt, up for auction" *by Ken* In a September 10 *NYT Book Review* review of Michael D'Antonio's *Never Enough: Donald Trump and the Pursuit of Success*, NYT columnist James ... more »
Satire: "Millions Watch American Democracy’s Final Episode"
*"Millions Watch American Democracy’s Final Episode"* by Andy Borowitz SIMI VALLEY, CALIFORNIA (The Borowitz Report)— "American democracy, a long-running institution whose popularity endured for over two hundred years, drew millions of viewers to its final episode Wednesday night. While the official ratings for democracy’s finale will not be available until Thursday, initial reports indicated that a larger than expected number tuned in to witness the last moments of the nation’s system of government. Network executives had warned that the final episode was not for the squeamish, bu... more »
Midday Musical Interlude: Ludovico Einaudi, “Lady Labyrinth”; “The Royal Albert Hall Concert”
Ludovico Einaudi, “Lady Labyrinth” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RqLKYhhfA_Q Ludovico Einaudi, “The Royal Albert Hall Concert” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BI8N2569jSg *Magnificent!*
The CNN Undercard Debate, As Seen on Twitter
[image: twitter - pixabay] The undercard debate featured Lindsey Graham, Bobby Jindal, George Pataki, and Rick Santorum, trying to battle their way into support that will get them onto the main stage. Here were some of the highlights, according to Twitter. Some would rather... more »
White House Invites Several Opponents of Catholic Teaching to Greet Pope Francis
[image: Pope Francis3 - 400] President Obama will apparently test just how far Pope Francis' notorious tolerance will go by inviting a rogue's gallery of people opposed to Catholic teaching to greet the pontiff at the White House during his visit next week. In a stunning... Continue reading *“White House Invites Several Opponents of Catholic Teaching to Greet Pope Francis”* at *breitbart.com*.
Is A Different Approach Needed To Resolve The War In Ukraine
Image: Wikimedia Commons/Michael *Michael O'Hanlon, National Interest:** How to Resolve the War in Ukraine* *"A different approach is needed, one that goes to the heart of the problem by creating a new security architecture for central Europe that all can accept."* As the fall of 2015 unfolds, the Russia-Ukraine crisis is not generating nearly as much news attention as it created throughout most of 2014. But in fact, it is still very serious—which is why the incoming Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Joseph Dunford, told Congress in his recent confirmation hearings in... more »
Alice Embree : METRO EVENT | The ‘New Greek Tragedy’ is focus of panel in Austin
Event: “A New Greek Tragedy? Inequality, Human Rights and Democracy” What: Panel discussion Date: Monday, September 28, 2015 Time: 4:00-6:00 p.m. Where: Sheffield Room (TNH 2.111), University of Texas School of Law Address: 727 E Dean Keeton St, Austin, TX … finish reading Alice Embree : *METRO EVENT* | The ‘New Greek Tragedy’ is focus of panel in Austin
Ukraine Militias Building Their Own Tanks
An overview of Azov Engineering Group's garage is seen on September 9, 2015 in Kyiv, Ukraine. At left is an inverted tank chassis in the process of being stripped down before being rebuilt as a new vehicle much like "Azovette" (top right), which went through a similar process. Image: Pete Kiehart *Geraldine Cremin, Motherboard:* *A Tour of Ukraine's 'Mad Max' Tank Factory* Roads in the east of Ukraine are littered with signs of war: roadblocks, craters, tanks, and camo-painted trucks. Occasionally a Mitsubishi L200 pickup painted in a striking geometric camouflage pattern will rol... more »
8.3 Quake Hits Chile, Tsunami Alert Issued
[image: Chile map - 900 000] SANTIAGO, Chile (AP) -- A powerful magnitude-8.3 earthquake hit off Chile’s northern coast Wednesday night, causing buildings to sway in the capital of Santiago and prompting authorities to issue a tsunami warning for the Andean nation’s entire coast. Officials reported... more »
Compass Festival Music! Food! This Weekend Food!!!!
September 19 - September 20 Sep 19 at 12:00pm to Sep 20 at 9:00pm 美術館綠園道 (五權5街/五權西3街) Art Museum Parkway (WuQuan 5th & WuQuan W 3rd St) https://www.facebook.com/events/646939795440196/ 2015第12屆康百視雜誌台中國際美食音樂節 Compass Magazine's 12th Annual Taichung Int'l Food & Music Festival, 2015 康百視美食音樂節又來了！超過50個攤位，上百種美食飲料，由台中各大餐廳酒吧所提供一個絕佳的機會來品嚐各式美食。並且有17個最佳原創樂團現場演出。免費入場，歡迎參加！ The Compass Magazine Food & Music Festival is back! Hundreds of food and drink options from over 50 booths hosted by the finest restaurants and pubs all over the city offer a great way to sample the best the city has to offer.... more »
Commentaries, Analysis, And Editorials -- September 16, 2015
*Dmitri Trenin, National Interest:* *Like It or Not, America and Russia Need to Cooperate in Syria* "The Obama administration is unlikely to fall for the Putin plan of a grand coalition with Moscow, Tehran and Damascus to accomplish that, but a degree of coordination is advisable." Many outside observers view the Russian military buildup in Syria as a way for President Putin to force his way through to the negotiating table with Barack Obama ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting in New York. There is some truth to that. To be effective, diplomacy should be backed by facts on t... more »
Re-analysis of controversial Paxil study shows drug “ineffective and unsafe” for teens
The antidepressant Paxil isn’t safe or effective for teens after all, says a re-analysis of a 2001 study published today in The BMJ. The original 2001 paper in Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry — study 329, as it’s known — helped greenlight use of the drug (generically known as paroxetine) in young people. […] The post Re-analysis of controversial Paxil study shows drug “ineffective and unsafe” for teens appeared first on Retraction Watch.
Trump Insists Everyone Speak English... But He Speaks A Language Of Obfuscation
I'm not sure how relevant Bill Kristol, son of Irving, is to anything anymore, but the neoconservative fanatic, the founder and editor of the *Weekly Standard*, sits on a bunch of wingnut think tank boards with Robert Kagan and Liz Cheney. He's best known for having been key to preventing millions of Americans from getting health insurance in 1993 and for helping gin up a climate of hysteria that worked to allow Bush and Cheney to start-- and then expand-- the unjustified and catastrophic Iraq War. Also, some people credit him for inventing Sarah Palin as a national figure. But y... more »
Michael Simmons : Steve Earle: ‘Mississippi, It’s Time!’
With this song, son-of-the-South Earle aims to help convince the Magnolia State to eradicate the Confederate symbol from its flag. By Michael Simmons | The Rag Blog | September 16, 2015 “It’s largely about empathy,” says Steve Earle of his … finish reading Michael Simmons : Steve Earle: ‘Mississippi, It’s Time!’
Why Are The NDP, The Liberals, And The Greens Handing The Election To The Harper Conservatives?
Why Are The NDP, The Liberals, And The Greens Handing The Election To The Harper Conservatives? *Written By Robin Mathews Sept. 2015* Sand Box Nobodies To begin. Like dumb school-yard bullies, Thomas Mulcair and Justin Trudeau have agreed to Stephen Harper’s terms for the final two Election Debates. They will exclude Elizabeth May. No better than them on the primary question – the major issue in the Election – Ms. May should, nonetheless, be in the debates. The two males could have done nothing but improve their own chances by insisting on her inclusion. “*No Elizabeth ... more »
Rae Gun Hallowen Costume Giveaway
I am beyond thrilled to bring you a giveaway for my favorite ETSY shop of all time. Rae Gun makes darling Halloween costumes, last year I was lucky enough to have one of her custom creations for my sweet baby and I got SO many compliments. This year YOU Can win one of her costumes for the cutie in your life. Read below to enter! [image: Super cute baby and toddler costumes perfect for Halloween and cosplay] Want a great Halloween costume for your baby or toddler this year? Oh great you're in luck today I'm sharing my costume line for 2015 for the Rae Gun Shop and as well as having a... more »
World News Briefs -- September 16, 2015 (Evening Edition)
*Deutsche Welle*: *Hungary fires tear gas, water cannons to hold back refugees* Police in Hungary's Roszke border crossing have fired tear gas and water cannons to scatter asylum seekers wanting to cross over from Serbia. Budapest has closed down its borders to keep new arrivals out. Hundreds of riot police tried to repel migrants attempting to break through a razor-wire fence from Serbia into Hungary on Wednesday. Budapest meanwhile informed Serbia that it had temporarily closed the Roszke-Horgos border crossing for 30 days, Serbia's foreign ministry said in a statement. Roszke-... more »
Governments Give Migrants a Disastrous Mix of Social Welfare and Bureaucracy
*Guest post by Justin Murray* *“If you are looking for a threat to [the west]’s long-term prosperity and tranquillity, do not look toward immigrants. Look into the mirror instead." ~ Marian Tupy & Alex Nowsareth, The Real Threat To America Is Not Immigrants, But Ourselves* On August 27, 2015, seventy-one refugees were discovered suffocated in an abandoned, locked transport truck in Austria just across the border with Hungary. These individuals, reported as refugees fleeing from the civil war in Syria, made a trek of over 1,000 miles. This is just a long string in the growing ... more »
Riot! Hungarian Police Repel Migrants at Serbian Border
[image: HORGOS, SERBIA - SEPTEMBER 16: Migrants remonstrate with Hungarian police before they were hit with pepper spray, water cannons and tear gas at the Horgos border post on September 16, 2015 in Horgos, Serbia. Hungary has introduced tough new laws to administer the influx of migrants and has declared a state of emergency in two of it's counties close to the border.] HORGOS, Serbia (AP) -- Europe’s migrant crisis took another ugly turn Wednesday when Hungarian riot police used tear gas, pepper spray and water cannons to beat back hundreds of people massed at the border with Serbi... more »
Ceasefire Still Holding In Ukraine
*USA Today*: *Fighting eases in east Ukraine as Russia backs off support for separatists* A long-sought cease-fire appears to be holding in eastern Ukraine, raising hopes that a truce negotiated in February may finally bring peace between Ukrainian national forces and Russian-backed separatists. No Ukrainian troops died in combat so far this week, the Ukrainian military said, and international monitors report that fighting has fallen to the lowest levels in more than a year, according to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe. Ukrainian government and separatist ... more »
Economics as hand-wringing
When your economic theory bears no relation to economic reality, instead of giving good advice when things go wrong, all you’re left with is hand-wringing. [image: us household income] *The title of the article is ‘**The Sad State of the American Worker,**’ but what it really underscores is the sad state of economic theory and the economists who come with it. Read the article if you must, but the authors have no idea what went wrong.* Nor any conception of how it might be put right. [Hat tip Steve Kates] Content is copyright PC.BlogSpot.Com © Please contact author for permission ... more »
Eight Reasons Trump Can’t Win
[image: Donald Trump Rally Dallas - 900] Donald Trump is leading in the polls for a reason: A lot of Republican voters are sick and tired of the Republican Party. They want to show their frustration in some way that is emotionally cathartic but has no lasting... more »
Deranged Partisans
I know I've gone after Obama-bot "Driftglass" before, but this really takes the cake. It's from last year, with the Edward Snowden taking refuge in Russia after exposing the US National Security Agency's illegal domestic spying program. Empty-headed people were condemning Snowden as a traitor, and, obviously, running to an enemy country just proved his traitorous nature. In response to that stupidity, Glenn Greenwald tweeted "How irrational to choose Russia over the luxurious, super-max hellhole of life-long solitary confinement the US generously provides people" Well! That got Dr... more »
Where Do These Navy Destroyers Go?
*Dredging just off Gangjeong village on Jeju Island* *Military housing steals land from Gangjeong villagers for Navy base* By Bruce K. Gagnon Do people in our community ever stop and wonder where the Navy destroyers actually go when they leave Bath Iron Works [Maine]? Do we wonder how they impact people’s lives where they are ported and what environmental footprint they leave? During the entire month of August, I was in Japan and South Korea where BIW-built Aegis destroyers (outfitted with so-called “missile defense interceptors”) are being ported. Currently, in both those countrie... more »
Untitled
*Experts foresee moving mouth of Mississippi River north as far as English Turn and abandoning towns south of there ~Bob Marshall, The Lens *
Chaos And Riots On The Hungary - Serbia Border
*Daily Mail*: *Storming the barricades: Hundreds of migrants smash their way through Hungary's razor-wire border with Serbia after hurling rocks at riot police who hit back with tear gas and water cannons* * Frustrated refugees finally lost their patience and demanded to be allowed to cross Serbia's border into Hungary * They have been stuck on the Serbian side of the crossing since Hungary finished erecting its razor wire fences * Several hundred refugees stormed the fences this afternoon, throwing rocks and bottles at Hungarian police * Riot officers responded by firing tear gas... more »
Was it cos he’s a Jew?
I’ve been looking at Twitter, just to see what people have been Tweeting to Ivan Lewis, because rumour has it that the antisemites are out. I don’t much like Twitter because of the way it makes everything so rude. Benign words nearly always turn all confrontational and insulting by the time they reach their destination. Something dark happens twixt keyboard and Twittersphere. You should be able to see the transition taking place before your very eyes as the message flies through *space*. But you can’t. Maybe if you looked through a powerful telescope? (from NASA?) Not that there... more »
Entrepreneurship and Interdisciplinary Scholarship
[image: entrepreneurship] While reading economist (and rabbi) Israel M. Kirzner's Competition & Entrepreneurship (1973), it occurred to me that his description of what the "pure entrepreneur" does could also be applied to what a good interdisciplinary scholar, such as someone who studies... Continue reading *“Entrepreneurship and Interdisciplinary Scholarship”* at *blog.acton.org*.
Is TANF Actually Helping the Poor?
[image: TANF] Welfare reform in 1996 ended the traditional cash welfare program called Aid To Families With Dependent Children (AFDC). In place of AFDC came a new program titled Temporary Assistance to Needy Families or TANF, which made assistance payments contingent on... Continue reading *“Is TANF Actually Helping the Poor?”* at *aei.org*.
How Star Trek Explains the Decline of Liberalism
[image: star trek] Leonard Nimoy's death in February brought to a close his unusual career continually playing a single role for half a century. Between 1966, when the television show Star Trek premiered, and 2013, when the movie Star Trek Into Darkness hit... Continue reading *“How Star Trek Explains the Decline of Liberalism”* at *thefederalist.com*.
Supplemental: Mika and Joe and the whole ship of fools!
*WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2015Scarborough does it again:* In Sunday’s column in the Post, Ruth Marcus correctly noted one of the problems with the press corps’ obsession with Candidate Clinton’s emails. We’ll suggest that you read the column. For today, let’s consider Joe Scarborough’s latest meltdown. The latest meltdown occurred on today’s Morning Joe. Scarborough ranted and railed and “went way over.” In the process, he also seemed perhaps a bit weak on at least one basic fact. Scarborough was deeply troubled by the fact that Clinton’s lawyer, David Kendall, has had access to ... more »
Alabama Puts Evolution, Climate Change into Classrooms
[image: Education] For the first time, Alabama students will be required to learn about evolution and climate change after the State Board of Education unanimously voted to update the science standard for 2016. The last time the science standards was updated was... Continue reading *“Alabama Puts Evolution, Climate Change into Classrooms”* at *pbs.org*.
CNN, Try These for Substantive Questions for Tonight’s GOP Debate
[image: Donald Trump Carly Fiorina GOP Debate - 900] Tonight’s GOP presidential debate, hosted by CNN, will be moderated by respected radio talk show host Hugh Hewitt, CNN’s Jake Tapper, also considered a straight shooter, and up-and-comer Dana Bash of CNN. Bash has already said she won’t make the debate... more »
STUDY: Obamacare Punishes Hospitals that See Poor Patients
[image: obamacare] An Obamacare program that aims to improve American health care may have an unintended side effect: penalizing hospitals that serve the sickest and poorest patients. The Affordable Care Act penalizes hospitals that have high readmission rates, where patients come back within... Continue reading *“STUDY: Obamacare Punishes Hospitals that See Poor Patients”* at *vox.com*.
"The Elite Have Prepared for the Coming Collapse – Have You?"
*"The Elite Have Prepared for the Coming Collapse – Have You?"* by Michael Snyder "Why are the global elite buying extremely remote compounds that come with their own private airstrips in the middle of nowhere on the other side of the planet? And why did they start dumping stocks like crazy earlier this year? Do they know something that the rest of us don’t? The things that I am about to share with you are quite alarming. It appears that the global elite have a really good idea of what is coming, and they have already taken substantial steps to prepare for it. Sadly, most of the... more »
UN Calls For The Creation Of A Special Court To Investigate War Crimes During The Sri Lankan Civil War
*Voice of America:* *UN Recommends Special Court for Sri Lanka War Probe* WASHINGTON — The United Nations released a report Wednesday saying Sri Lanka cannot rely on its own justice system and instead should use a special court to achieve accountability for violations that took place during the country's 26-year civil war. The recommendation came as part of a report on what the U.N. Human Rights office said were possible war crimes and crimes against humanity during the conflict that pitted government forces against rebels seeking independence for the nation's Tamil minority. The ... more »
Talkin' the Iran Deal on BRIC TV's "Straight Up"
The good folks over at Brooklyn's own BRIC TV kindly invited me on their reporter roundtable show Straight Up to discuss the Iran deal - the facts, falsehoods, details, media coverage, political posturing - along with prolific journalist Ali Gharib and host Jarrett Murphy of City Limits. Much ground was covered, I quoted Donald Trump, and we all a drank a number of pints of beer. And
U.S. Funding Regime Change Via NGO's
US government funds extremists to create regime change.....US AID, National Endowment for Democracy, CIA, State Department funds, and George Soros's Open Society Foundations all involved in funding the Ukraine coup d'etat and others around the world. This video includes short interview with renowned journalist Robert Parry from Consortium News.
Interesting Video: The Harper Deception
I have said it countless times now, and I do need to repeat it again...Canada is absolutely no longer a "free nation".... This nation that once prided itself on being probably the most "free" nation on planet Earth, has now fallen under the specter of tyranny... People in Canada NO longer have freedom of speech and freedom of choice..... We live basically under a dictatorship, and things will only get worse.... Yes, this October 19th, the people of this formerly free nation of Canada will go to the "polls" to basically select the next batch of criminals and misfits to run this natio... more »
The Brutally Honest Conspiracy Theory Cartoon that NBC Only Aired Once
*Vic Bishop* - This Saturday Night Live cartoon tells viewers what's really going on behind the scenes in network TV. The post The Brutally Honest Conspiracy Theory Cartoon that NBC Only Aired Once appeared first on Waking Times.
Afghanistan's Taliban Declare An End To Their Leadership Rift
Mullah Akhtar Mansoor still faces opposition at the top of the Taliban movement, according to a western diplomat. Photograph: Handout/Reuters *The Guardian:* *Taliban declare end to leadership rift* *Group’s media office claims Mullah Akhtar Mansoor has won support from key figures in Mullah Omar’s family, raising hopes for Afghan peace talks.* The Taliban claim to have resolved a big rift in their leadership, in a move that will likely consolidate the power of their new leader and could lead to a resumption of peace talks with the Afghan government. The group’s media office declar... more »
Mining 44, Presentation at the Mining 2015 Conference
Last Tuesday, September 15, I was one of the speakers during the opening day of the 3-days Mining Philippines 2015 Conference, held at the Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resort Casino Manila. Good audience, perhaps about 200 people. Opening speeches in the morning, then two focused group discussions in the afternoon. We were on the 3-5pm slot. This is my presentation, 28 slides total, showing 7 of them here. After showing various tables on comparative taxation in the region, I asked the audience of this question. About 4 hands were raised to say True, none raised hand to say False, th... more »
The Economy: “Inside Janet Yellen’s Brain at 4 a.m. (Part II)”
*“Inside Janet Yellen’s Brain at 4 a.m. (Part II)”* by Bill Bonner GUALFIN, Argentina – “According to several headlines, the U.S. stock market rose yesterday “ahead of Fed.” The Dow was up 229 points – or 1.4% – for the session. And so, we return to poor Janet Yellen. Tomorrow, much of the world turns its lonely eyes to the Fed and its chieftain. The Fed has as much as promised to make the blind see and the lame walk. It claims that it – and it alone – is capable of improving the U.S. economy and, by extension, the world economy. People will earn more money. They will live better. ... more »
Filmmaker Warns ‘True Christians’ about Islamic State and Why They Must Fight Back
[image: christian persecution] The writer and director of a feature film about a group of young people who fought to save the innocent during the Holocaust has unveiled a new movement aimed at raising awareness about the dire religious persecution of Christians in... Continue reading *“Filmmaker Warns ‘True Christians’ about Islamic State and Why They Must Fight Back”* at *theblaze.com*.
Securitization Forum: Introduction and Setting the Scene
The following is a lead piece for a forum discussing why securitization theory has had so little traction in American IR. Drawing on established and emerging scholars from around the world, the forum will run from September 16th – 30th and feature guest posts every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. Two years ago Dan Nexon approached […]
Saudi Arabia And The Gulf States Pay A Heavy Price In The Yemen War
*Long War Journal*: Gulf states continue to pay price in Yemen despite advances The Saudi-led coalition against Iranian-backed Shiite Houthi rebels and their pro-Saleh supporters in Yemen continues to experience losses in both southern Saudi Arabia and inside Yemen. While the coalition has been able to retake several cities and towns in southern Yemen, the Houthi rebels continue to be successful in taking out coalition armor, as well as some positions inside southern Saudi Arabia. Houthi rebels, through their official satellite channel Al Masirah TV, have released several videos ... more »
Kim Davis Honored with ‘Cost of Discipleship Award’ for Courage
[image: This Thursday, Aug. 3, 2015 photo made available by the Carter County Detention Center shows Kim Davis. The Rowan County, Ky. clerk went to jail Thursday for refusing to issue marriage licenses to gay couples, but five of her deputies agreed to comply with the law, ending a two-month standoff. (Carter County Detention Center via AP)] The Family Research Council will honor Kentucky clerk Kim Davis, who was jailed six days for being in contempt of federal court after refusing to issue marriage licenses due to her biblical opposition to same-sex marriage, as the recipient of... ... more »
Yemen Government Returns To Aden After Months In Exile
*Wall Street Journal:** Yemen’s Prime Minister Returns From Exile* Khaled Bahah and several of his ministers arrive in Aden after months in Saudi Arabia Yemen’s Prime Minister Khaled Bahah arrived in the southern port city of Aden Wednesday after months of exile in Saudi Arabia. Local officials and Saudi state media said Mr. Banah flew to Aden with several of his ministers after spending almost six months working from Saudi Arabia. The move appeared to be a step toward the establishment of a government in Aden to rival the one in the capital, San’a, which is controlled by Houthi ... more »
Biden Backed Bills To Make It Harder For Americans To Reduce Student Debt
*Student debt burden as of March 2015 (source)* *by Gaius Publius* As many readers know, I'm watching the Biden phenomenon (the "Biden bulge" in media attention) with interest. Part of this attention is driven by the Biden camp, but the media is playing its role by playing up the "Joe Biden, regular guy" angle, crossed with "Joe Biden, heartbroken father," in a way that stamps his tentative entry into the Democratic primary with the Mainstream Media Seal of Approval. Heartbroken father he certainly is. "Regular guy" he's not, as you'll see shortly. Yet if there's critical big-med... more »
Animal welfare breach prompts Nature correction
A 2011 letter to Nature from Harvard researchers received its second correction today, this time after discovering the researchers conducted experiments in which mice may have “experienced more pain and suffering than originally allowed for.” That quote comes from an accompanying editorial in the journal, a rare move for a correction to a 2011 letter. […] The post Animal welfare breach prompts Nature correction appeared first on Retraction Watch.
U.S. CENTCOM General: Only Four Or Five U.S.-Trained Rebels Fighting In Syria
*New York Times:* *4 or 5 U.S.-Trained Syrians Still Fighting ISIS, Senators Are Told* WASHINGTON — Only four or five Syrians trained by the United States military to confront the Islamic State remain in the fight, the head of the United States Central Command told a Senate panel on Wednesday. Gen. Lloyd J. Austin III, the top American commander in the Middle East, also told the Senate Armed Services Committee that the United States would not reach its goal of training 5,000 Syrian fighters anytime soon. His comments came during a testy hearing in which a succession of senators f... more »
Donald Trump Slams CEO Pay. A Traitor to His Class?
[image: Donald Trump5 - 400] Is presidential hopeful Donald Trump a traitor to his class? That question comes up because on Sunday, Mr. Trump took a shot at CEOs, saying on CBS's "Face the Nation" that chief executive pay in America is so high that... Continue reading *“Donald Trump Slams CEO Pay. A Traitor to His Class?”* at *csmonitor.com*.
CBS President Unimpressed by Film Sympathetic to Dan Rather
[image: Truth-400] Before its acclaimed premiere at TIFF, Truth -- about the scandal that ended the anchor’s CBS News career -- was screened for a special viewer: CBS president and CEO Moonves, who was not impressed. Truth, director James Vanderbilt’s drama about... Continue reading *“CBS President Unimpressed by Film Sympathetic to Dan Rather”* at *hollywoodreporter.com*.
Did U.S. Government Exaggerate Progress against ISIS?
[image: us airstrike_Islamic State] WASHINGTON (AP) -- The top U.S. military commander for the Middle East vowed Wednesday to take “appropriate action” if an investigation indicates that senior defense officials altered intelligence reports on the Islamic State and other militant groups in Syria to... more »
Muslim Petition To Ban Munich's Oktoberfest Creates Uproar
*Change.org*: *Ban the Intolerant and Anti-Islamic event of Oktoberfest* *Dear City council of Munich,I am writing this letter to bring to your attention something that I and many Muslims believe is unfair and requires attention. I would like to inform you that the Oktoberfest is an Intolerant and Anti-Islamic event. We tried to ignore the event, but there too many Un-Islamic acts done at the Oktoberfest. Such as alcohol consumption, public nudity etc.We understand that the Oktoberfest is a yearly German tradition, but we, Muslims, can not tolerate this Un-Islamic event, becau... more »
White House Divided On Having Talks With Russian President Putin On Syrian Crisis
President Barack Obama talks with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin at his dacha outside Moscow, Russia, July 7, 2009 (White House/Pete Souza) *New York Times*: *Obama Weighing Talks With Putin on Syrian Crisis* WASHINGTON — For more than a year, President Obama has resisted meeting one on one with President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia and only reluctantly taken a phone call, freezing out the Kremlin leader over his intervention in Ukraine in their own personal cold war. But this month, the two leaders will be in the same city at the same time amid rising tension in Syria, and... more »
Russian Army General Staff: Does Not Rule Out The Creation Of A Russian Air Force Base In Syria
*ITAR-TASS:* *Deputy General Staff chief doesn't rule out creation of Russian Air Force base in Syria* NOVOSIBIRSK, September 16. /TASS/. Russian army’s General Staff does not rule out creation in the future of a Russian Air Force base in Syria, First Deputy Chief of the Russian General Staff Nikolay Bogdanovsky told reporters on Wednesday. "There are no such plans [for the base creation] yet. But anything might happen," he said. White House spokesman Josh Earnest earlier said the US Administration was closely monitoring media reports about the alleged dispatch of Russian Armed ... more »
No Charges for Muslim Student Arrested for Bringing Clock to School
[image: Ahmed Mohamed - 400] IRVING -- Ahmed Mohamed -- who makes his own radios and repairs his own go-kart -- hoped to impress his teachers when he brought a homemade clock to MacArthur High on Monday. Instead, the school phoned police about Ahmed's circuit-stuffed... Continue reading *“No Charges for Muslim Student Arrested for Bringing Clock to School”* at *dallasnews.com*.
PROFESSORS AND EXPERTS AND JOURNOS: Good grief!
*WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 16, 2015Part 3—“Educational expert” at work:* Are high school seniors doing less well in math? Might they be doing better? Such questions are hard to answer. The SATs *cannot* be used to answer such questions, as everyone secretly knows. (For evidence, see below.) If the SATs can't be used, how about the National Assessment for Educational Progress (NAEP), the widely-praised “gold standard” of domestic educational testing? Can’t we start to answer those questions by looking at NAEP results? Presumably yes, as we noted yesterday and as we’ll see below. That sa... more »
Russian Helicopter Gunships Spotted In Syria
Hind-24 Helicopter Gunship. Wikipedia *FOX News*: *Russian attack helicopters spotted in Syria* Four Russian attack helicopters have been spotted on the tarmac of a Syrian airport that the Pentagon says is being converted into a Russian forward operating base. The arrival of the helicopter gunships follows the shipment of sophisticated battle tanks, and shows the Russian build-up in Syria escalating even after repeated complaints from the Obama administration. A U.S. official who had been briefed on the latest intelligence over Syria early Wednesday told Fox News that two Russia... more »
World News Briefs -- September 16, 2015
*Deutsche Welle:* *Heavy fatalities as rebels shell Aleppo; France and Russia mull military action* At least 38 people have been killed in a rebel bombardment of Aleppo, many of them children. As "Islamic State" presses an offensive in the north, France and Russia are considering military options. At least 38 people were killed in Aleppo on Tuesday when Syrian rebels shelled three government-held neighborhoods in the west of the city. Among the dead were said to be 14 children. "Rocket fire on government districts is still going on," said Rami Abdel Rahman of the Britain-based Syr... more »
Military And Intelligence News Briefs -- September 16, 2015
*New York Times:* *U.S. Analysts Detail Claims That Reports on ISIS Were Distorted* WASHINGTON — A group of intelligence analysts have provided investigators with documents they say show that senior military officers manipulated the conclusions of reports on the war against the Islamic State, according to several government officials, as lawmakers from both parties voiced growing anger that they may have received a distorted picture about the military campaign’s progress. The Pentagon’s inspector general, who is examining the claims, is focusing on senior intelligence officials w... more »
Navy Yard Marks 2 Years Since Shootings with Memorial
[image: Navy Yard Memorial-400] Officials at the Washington Navy Yard will be holding a private memorial on the second anniversary of the shooting there that killed 12 people. Washington Navy Yard spokesman Brian Sutton says the memorial Wednesday will be for people who work... Continue reading *“Navy Yard Marks 2 Years Since Shootings with Memorial”* at *nbcwashington.com*.
Phoenix Police Officer Shot During Traffic Stop
[image: Officer shot2 - 400] A Phoenix police officer was shot and seriously injured early Wednesday while making a traffic stop, and the shooter or shooters are on the loose, city police said. The officer was shot more than once shortly after initiating a traffic... Continue reading *“Phoenix Police Officer Shot During Traffic Stop”* at *cnn.com*.
First Aegis Destroyers Port at Navy Base on Jeju Island
Yesterday the first Navy Aegis destroyers (outfitted with so-called 'missile defense' systems) pulled into port at the new Navy base in Gangjeong village on Jeju Island, South Korea. The two warships were met with protests on the land and kayaks in the ocean. The US-Japan-South Korea military alliance is aimed at China and Jeju Island is now officially a prime target in future hostilities. See my Op-Ed on this very subject today in the mid-coast Maine *Times Record* *here* 제주 해군기지 첫 입항.. 주민 반발_(박주연.박재정) Posted by 제주MBC on Wednesday, September 16, 2015
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*California oilfield wastewater panic ignores first rule of toxicology* *So oilfield wastewater sprayed on CA cops contains toxins! How awful! What the Greenies don't mention is the first law of toxicology: The toxicity is in the dose. We ingest minute amounts of toxins all the time and it does us no harm. But even plain old drinking water can kill you if you drink too much of it. Wastewater for crop usage is purified according to official standards and there is no evidence it does any harm.* “You can't find what you don't look for,” UC Berkeley researcher Seth B.C. Shonkoff... more »
Time for Natural Guard
With the worsening reality of climate change the world is seeing a flurry of extreme weather incidents. (Here in Maine the TV weather forecasters are 'marveling' every night at the unseasonably warm temperatures. It's like they don't have a clue as to what is really going on!) Raging fires in California due to severe drought conditions, floods unlike any before in other places, and rising sea levels due to melting Arctic ice all indicate that our future on this spinning satellite Earth will be a difficult one. Rather than waste colossal amounts of taxpayers monies around the globe... more »
What to Watch for in the 2nd GOP Debate
[image: GOP 2016 Debate-900] WASHINGTON (AP) -- Eleven top-tier Republican presidential hopefuls face off in their second prime-time debate of the 2016 campaign Wednesday, in a clash between outsiders and establishment candidates under a cathedral of political conservatism. Set in the Ronald Reagan Presidential... more »
Pressure Building for Hillary Clinton to Debate Early and Often
[image: Hillary Clinton] The increasingly public rift between Democratic National Committee chairwoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz and others in her party's leadership over the number of presidential debates is threatening to become more than just embarrassing to the DNC. It's spelling trouble for Hillary... Continue reading *“Pressure Building for Hillary Clinton to Debate Early and Often”* at *politico.com*.
Migrant Torrent Shifts to Croatia after Hungary Border Sealed
[image: Hungary migrant Croatia_Reuters outbound] The first group of migrants has reached Croatia – opening up a new route to northern EU countries, a day after Hungary sealed its border with Serbia. About 150 migrants crossed into Croatia, an EU member, from Serbia. Croatia says... Continue reading *“Migrant Torrent Shifts to Croatia after Hungary Border Sealed”* at *bbc.com*.
Assad Says His Priority is ‘Defeating Terrorism’ in Syria
[image: This Is How Much Cash Iran Is Spending To Keep Assad Alive] BEIRUT (AP) -- Syrian President Bashar Assad said in an interview aired Wednesday that his priority is “defeating terrorism” in Syria and urged all political and armed factions in the country to unite in the fight against terrorist groups. In... more »
Reagan’s Sons — One Conservative, One Liberal — Trash Trump
[image: Donald-Trump__400] The two sons of former President Ronald Reagan have negative views of GOP presidential frontrunner Donald Trump. "Just on a human being kind of level, I can't think of two people who are more diametrically opposed," Ron Reagan told Politico.... Continue reading *“Reagan’s Sons — One Conservative, One Liberal — Trash Trump”* at *thehill.com*.
De Bait Nite
Something weird has been happening lately over at already-weird CNN. It's gone from being the War On Terror propaganda network to being the War *For* Terror propaganda network. It's morphed from scaring people about ISIS creeping across the borders to murder us all in our beds to thrilling people about Donald Trump creeping into all of our beds by way of his relentless presence on our video screens. Even the terror promos are eerily similar, right down to the drumbeat-heavy Doomsday soundtracks. When you don't see Jihadi John glaring at you, you see Donald Trump glaring at you. The... more »
Signed 9/15/2015: Executive Order -- Using Behavioral Science Insights to Better Serve the American People...
*really?* Do you realize there are people who don't believe they're being manipulated? *From: Whitehouse.gov * A growing body of evidence demonstrates that behavioral science insights -- research findings from fields such as behavioral economics and psychology about how people make decisions and act on them -- can be used to design government policies to better serve the American people. Where Federal policies have been designed to reflect behavioral science insights, they have substantially improved outcomes for the individuals, families, communities, and businesses those policies... more »
Bellingcat is back- Brought to us all by Brown Moses Media Ltd
This latest from bellingcat was enough to get me back here for a brief spell! * Sighting of R-166-0.5 signals vehicle affirms inflow of Russian military into Syria* Oryx is the author this time. I'll highlight the bits that cause me consternation and explain why *Bear in mind by using specific words, one can create a specific image in the mind of the reader.. Spelling------ words manage your perception* I am removing all external links contained in the article, save for one, because I'm not a fan of the concept of *'dazzling with bullshit'- * The past few days have seen *a steep... more »
Islamic State’s Newest Car Bomb Campaign In Iraq’s Capital
The Islamic State (IS) just started its latest vehicle borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) campaign in Iraq starting in July. It is a mix of tactical attacks upon the government’s forces in places like Anbar and Salahaddin, and more traditional terrorist bombings of civilians such as in the capital. An analysis of where these car bombs have gone off reveal an extensive network of bases throughout Baghdad’s belts, and the groups ability to infiltrate almost every part of the governorate. The Islamic State’s newest car bomb offensive began in July 2015. This has included a re... more »
Diono Rainier Giveaway
I am huge on child safety, so I am thrilled to be able to bring you this giveaway for this amazing booster! In honor of Child Passenger Safety Week 2015, we're bringing you a fantastic giveaway from our friends at Diono! We all want our children to be safe while riding in our vehicles, but what about when air travel is in your plans? Have you thought about the best ways to keep your little ones safe on an airplane? *Did you know that 80% of plane crashes happen within the first 3 minutes after takeoff and last 8 minutes before landing? *Traveling with kids is no easy feat and parent... more »
Capitalism, Poverty and Pope Francis
[image: CATO2 - 426] Panelists talked about Pope Francis’ views of capitalism and its effect on inequality and poverty around the globe. Catholic University president John Garvey and two Catholic scholars considered the pope's lessons and statements on global free markets and their tendencies toward... Continue reading *“Capitalism, Poverty and Pope Francis”* at *c-span.org*.
Mabus Throws Down: All Combat Positions in Navy Will Open to Women
[image: Ray Mabus__900] Despite considerable backlash from within the service, Navy Secretary Ray Mabus said again Monday that the Marine Corps infantry and Navy SEALs will open up to women, no matter what. After receiving heated comments from both male and female Marines who... more »
The Islamic State Is Winning In Iraq
*David Kilcullen, The Strategist:* *ISIS is Winning in Iraq* My last post examined Islamic State as a global terrorist entity—a complex and constantly evolving threat. This two-part post focuses more tightly on the unfolding war against ISIS in Iraq. Here things are much clearer: we’re losing. Anyone reading this already knows much of the history, but to recap: ISIS exploited Iraqi government ineptitude and sectarian division after US forces left in 2011, and used the sanctuary created by the Syrian civil war to grow from an urban guerrilla group—small cells, civilian clothes and ... more »
Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Blames The West For Its Refugee Crisis
*BBC:* *Syria conflict: Assad 'won't quit under pressure'* Syrian President Bashar al-Assad has said in an interview for Russian TV he will not quit under foreign pressure, saying the Syrian people must decide. Western powers and much of the Syrian opposition say it is not conceivable for Mr Assad to lead a post-war Syria. Mr Assad said Iran was supporting his government "politically, economically and militarily" but denied that Iranian ground forces had been sent. The latest comments come as Russia increases its presence in Syria. *WNU Editor:* Syrian President Bashar al-Assad bl... more »
Judge to Consider Releasing Church Shooting 911 Tapes
[image: South Carolina Judge J.C. Nicholson__1442403344_70.119.142.63] CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) -- A South Carolina judge was set to hear arguments Wednesday on whether to release 911 calls and other documents in the shooting deaths of nine black parishioners at a church. Various news organizations, including The Associated... more »
Fourth retraction for Einstein oncologist due to image manipulations
Two papers on a potential cancer drug have been retracted following an investigation that found “inappropriate manipulation of bands in gels.” This makes four retractions by our count for Roman Perez-Soler, an oncologist at the Einstein College of Medicine, and for co-author Yi-He Ling, whose current affiliation is unknown. Their previous two retractions, which we reported on in […] The post Fourth retraction for Einstein oncologist due to image manipulations appeared first on Retraction Watch.
Lawyer: Former Taliban Prisoner Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl 'In Physical Danger' From Fellow Soldiers
*ABC News:* *Lawyer: Bowe Bergdahl 'In Physical Danger' From Fellow Soldiers* Ahead of a key hearing this week in his case of alleged desertion, former Taliban prisoner Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl's defense team told a military tribunal that he has been "in physical danger" for a year from fellow soldiers who are angry over claims he betrayed his country. Bergdahl's civilian defense lawyer Eugene Fidell said former military and intelligence officers appearing in conservative news media had vilified Bergdahl and stoked hatred over social media such as Facebook over Bergdahl’s perceive... more »
This Top Islamic State Military Commander Was Trained By The U.S. Military
*Photo:* Abu Omar al Shishani, born Tarkhan Batirashvili in Georgia’s Pankisi Valley, is seen in an image captured from an Islamic State video posted on the Internet. The Pankisi Valley is home to perhaps as many as 150 Islamic State fighters. Screenshot from ISIS Video *McClatchy News:* *U.S. training helped mold top Islamic State military commander* * Tarkhan Batirashvili was a natural military star when he joined Georgia’s military * Fought the Russians during 2008 war, but left Georgia for Turkey in 2012 * In Syria, he’s known as Abu Omar al Shishani, commander in several major ... more »
Taking on Trump: GOP Hopefuls to Shift Strategies for Tonight’s Debate
[image: GOP Debate-900] WASHINGTON (AP) -- In the first Republican presidential debate, most candidates took a hands-off approach to Donald Trump and hoped the brash billionaire would hurt himself. Instead, he only got stronger. Trump’s unexpected durability has led some of his rivals... more »
Who Killed The 20th Century’s Greatest Spy?
*The Guardian:* *Who killed the 20th century’s greatest spy?* When Ashraf Marwan fell to his death from the balcony of a London flat, he took his secrets with him. Was he working for Egypt or Israel? And did the revelation of his identity lead to his murder? This much is certain: Ashraf Marwan, a man some describe as the 20th century’s greatest spy, was alive when he tumbled from the fifth-floor balcony of his £4.4m London flat. The Egyptian businessman landed, shortly after 1.30pm on 27 June 2007, in the private rose garden at number 24 Carlton House Terrace, a street whose forme... more »
Olympics: Dodged a Bullet, Set a Precedent?
Mayor Dad announced yesterday that Toronto is not going to bid for the 2024 Summer Olympics. Good. As observant readers have noted, this blog was opposed to the greed-corruption-anti-democracy festival that the Olympics bring to town. What galled me the most was the total needlessness of this kabuki. Some points: • We had already decided against this idiocy until John Tory got a bee in his bonnet and decided to drag us all through his dithering for more than a month. • An Olympic bid was not on anyone's agenda. No one campaigned on it. It had zero interest, let alone support. (See... more »
A Society Grows Great When.....A Greek Proverb
*Source:https://www.facebook.com/hopefulosophy*
Nelson Report on the Brookings Conference
*Picking tea in Nantou.* Section from Nelson Report on the CSIS/Brookings conference: +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ CSIS TODAY...an all-day conference "Strait Talk: Taiwan's 2016 Elections and the United States", with the usual all-star cast of foreign experts, and DC stalwarts led by CSIS's Bonnie Glaser, Mike Green and Chris Johnson, with big assists from former St. Dept. gurus Alan Romberg and Dave Brown, with current FSO now on leave Bob Wang. Shelly Rigger's lunchtime keynote hit most of the main points discussed, and Shelly has kindly shared her talking points, in full, b... more »
Self-Proclaimed "Moderate" Rob Portman Admits He Intends To Support Donald Trump
*Guest Post by P.G. Sittenfeld* Candidate for U.S. Senate When Ohio Senator Rob Portman said Monday that he would endorse Donald Trump for President should Trump win the nomination of the Republican party, Portman revealed his carefully crafted "moderate" image to be nothing more than a hollow shell. That Trump is a narcissistic blow-hard who takes special delight in degrading women, immigrants and minorities has long been obvious. That Portman would even consider endorsing a misogynist like him for President of the United States is proof positive that Portman does not belong in ... more »
Something Doesn't Compute
http://www.ctvnews.ca/ Stephen Harper began the week by crowing about his surplus. He fancies himself a magician; and so, nothing he says or does is ever what it seems. And such is the case with the "surplus." Jim Stanford writes: The Conservative government has been criticized (including by the Parliamentary Budget Office) for its routine practice of underspending Parliament-approved budgets in many departments, and approved but unspent allocations were a significant factor in this week's announced surplus. Lapsed funds totaled... more »
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*Obama promotes shell game in student loan system* IMAGINE YOU ARE adrift in a small, overcrowded lifeboat that is quickly taking on water. Calmly, the captain stands. “Don’t panic,” he urges, “I have this under control.” He then proceeds to drill a few holes in the bottom of the boat, “to let the water out.” Ridiculous as it sounds, that picture captures President Obama’s plan for dealing with the student loan crisis. With borrowers awash in a sea of debt, and the system taking on record defaults, the president and his allies blithely concoct different ways for those borrowers to... more »
Standing by the Torrent of Sludge
*Zen Gardner* - You have to see past all the BS first and not let it rattle you. The post Standing by the Torrent of Sludge appeared first on Waking Times.
Flood Waters Trap Hikers, Carry Away Cars in Utah; 16 Die
[image: Utah Arizona flash flood water 16 killed__1442404126_70.119.142.63] HILDALE, Utah (AP) -- A van and SUV carrying three women and 13 children sat near the widening stream, waiting for the water to recede so they could cross back to their homes in a small, polygamous town on the... more »
Motive Elusive in Mississippi Double Shooting
[image: Delta State University Prayer Vigil Mississippi Double Shooting_900] GAUTIER, Miss. (AP) -- Shannon Lamb’s motive for fatally shooting his girlfriend and a university colleague remains largely a mystery: The university instructor had no criminal record, he was a well-liked teacher, and police said there was no history of... more »
Court Battle Over Bowe Bergdahl about to Begin
[image: This photo provided by lawyer Eugene R. Fidell shows Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl preparing to be interviewed by Army investigators in August 2014. (AP Photo/Eugene R. Fidell)] One of the U.S. military's highest profile court cases in decades will open Thursday with prosecutors dissecting Army Sgt. Robert "Bowdrie" Bergdahl's decision to walk away from his combat outpost in Afghanistan in 2009, potentially paving the way for a... Continue reading *“Court Battle Over Bowe Bergdahl about to Begin”* at *washingtonpost.com*.
Military Photo of the Day: September 16, 2015
[image: IED Training-900] A U.S. Army soldier approaches a simulated improvised explosive device during training at Fort Irwin, Calif., on Sept. 10, 2015. While this photo may remind you of Kathryn Bigelow’s Oscar-winning 2008 Iraq war film The Hurt Locker, it also reminds us that Explosive Ordnance... more »
Feel-the-Bern Fiscal Policy
From the Wall Street Journal (news article, not editorial page): Sen. Bernie Sanders, whose liberal call to action has propelled his long-shot presidential campaign, is proposing an array of new programs that would amount to the largest peacetime expansion of government in modern American history. In all, he backs at least $18 trillion in new spending over a decade, according to a tally by The Wall Street Journal....To pay for it, Mr. Sanders, a Vermont independent running for the Democratic nomination, has so far detailed tax increases that could bring in as much as $6.5 trillion o... more »
Staying Close To Your Kids While You Are Away
This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #CloudPetsForever #CollectiveBias When I was in high school, my dad worked out of state. It was hard to not see one parents for days or even weeks at a time and now my youngest sister is going through it. I didn't ever think I would need to take business trips, but time and time again I find myself kissing my babies good bye and hopping on a plan to somewhere. Over the past few years we have found a rhythm with my trips and my dad with my youngest sister, to keep us connected an... more »
Jeremy Corbyn at Prime Minister's Questions
Jeremy Corbyn this morning pledged to try and change Prime Minister's Questions. Would he go for the "honest politics, plainly spoken" approach of his leadership campaign, avoiding the name-calling and yah boo sucks, or will he rise to the bait put to him by Dave? As we now know, he started as he's been carrying on for the last 32 years. He began with housing, and asked about what the government would do about the lack of affordable housing and soaring rents. Dave's reply, the first as part of his new strategy to offer substantive responses, waxed about more starter schemes, help t... more »
We Are The Ones.....A Hopi Indian Prophecy
We are the Ones We've Been Waiting For by the Hopi Elders You have been telling people that this is the Eleventh Hour, now you must go back and tell the people that this is the Hour. And there are things to be considered… Where are you living? What are you doing? What are your relationships? Are you in right relation? Where is your water? Know your garden. It is time to speak your truth. Create your community. Be good to each other. And do not look outside yourself for your leader. Then he clasped his hands together, smiled, and said, “This could be a good time! There is a river... more »
Trump Pledges Military Buildup, Better Deal for Veterans
[image: Donald Trump Military Buildup Veterans_900] LOS ANGELES (AP) -- Republican presidential contender Donald Trump is promising subsidized private health care for frustrated veterans, charging that immigrants in the country illegally receive better care than the nation’s wounded soldiers. The comments, delivered Tuesday aboard a retired... more »
Facebook Working on ‘Dislike’ Button, Mark Zuckerberg Says
[image: Facebook - 400] SAN FRANCISCO -- Coming soon to Facebook: a button that lets you express ‘dislike’ or emotions beyond the iconic thumbs up. Founder and chief executive Mark Zuckerberg made the announcement Tuesday during a Q&A session streamed live online from Facebook headquarters in Menlo Park,... Continue reading *“Facebook Working on ‘Dislike’ Button, Mark Zuckerberg Says”* at *usatoday.com*.
Taking Back the FDA by Dr Marcia Angell, MD
Taking Back the FDA by Marcia Angell Boston Globe Monday, February 26, 2007 It’s time to take the Food and Drug Administration back from the drug companies. Before a prescription drug can be sold, the manufacturer must conduct clinical trials to prove to the FDA that the drug is safe and effective. Without that, doctors have no way of knowing how good or bad a drug is. Just trying it out would be not only risky, but unreliable, since individual experience can be misleading. The scrutiny that this agency exists to provide is vital to our health. But in 1992, Congress put the fox... more »
Party Platforms, some thoughts!
If the choice is between fixing the hole in the roof and remortgaging the house then the choice is obvious, particularly with the interest rates so low. Throwing a tarp over it and putting a bucket under the drips is not a long term viable solution, that for so many of us finding a job to even purchase a tarp is a major problem simply highlights the position we are in both individually and as a country. If the roof has been leaking for some time and just moving the buckets around as needed was the solution chosen then simply doing more of the same is equally illogical. When your acc... more »
Lilith News Advertising Rates for 2016
Hello! Lilith News has decided to update our link advertising rates for the Lilith News and our associated websites. Our new ad prices are below. We charge $30 USD for a regular link ad. Renewable annually. $50 USD for a premium link ad or banner ad. Renewable annually. $70 USD for a premium banner ad. Renewable annually. $60 USD for a 500+ words custom article or blog post. Permanent. $90 USD for a 1000+ words custom article or blog post. Permanent. $200 USD to become an official sponsor (a big fat link near the top of the page of your choice). Renewable annually. If you ever wan...more »
Musical Interlude: Leonard Cohen, “Everybody Knows”
Leonard Cohen, “Everybody Knows” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lin-a2lTelg
Federal Red Tape Undermining U.S. Digital Security
[image: Hacker] Department of Homeland Security officials can't protect America's digital assets as well as they should because millions of tax dollars are being wasted in a bureaucratic system that drowns cyber-security tasks in red tape, a government watchdog said Tuesday. Fourteen... more »
Western Shoshone Ian Zabarte 'Cultural Triage is Genocide at Yucca Mountain'
Corbin Harney By Ian Zabarte Censored News I am the Principal Man for Foreign Affairs, of the government of Newe Sogobia and have the legitimate authority to speak on all matters subject to tribal law and custom. The exterior boundaries of Newe Sogobia are defined by the 1863 Treaty of Ruby Valley which include Yucca Mountain. I am a board member of the Native Community Action
Economic News , Data & Views ( September 16 , 2015 ) ..... Refugee situation Updates ( Croatia to allow refugees to pass into western Europe , Germany and Austria call for an Emergency Summit - origin / transit countries / hotspots their focus rather than quotas , Eastern European countries still recalcitrant regarding quotas and taking on refugees in general ) ...... Europe ( One hub of refugees , Syria , still caught in geopolitical struggles as UK consider No Fly Zone / French to lauch air-strikes in coming weeks / Putin vows to continue to support Assad , Polling for Saxony , Greece Snap Election items , EZ Growth for 2016 cut by OECD , ECB's Constancio speaks on QE , French Fin Min speaks on French debt and deficit targets ) ..... Asia Updates ( China , Japan and Australia in primary focus )
Evening wrap...... *fred walton* @fredwalton216 6h 6 hours agoPhiladelphia, PA fred walton retweeted The Greek Analyst And another poll , this time ND leading Syriza. fred walton added, *The Greek Analyst* @GreekAnalyst #Greece UoM/@skaigr ND 30% SYRIZA 29.5… *fred walton* @fredwalton216 6h6 hours agoPhiladelphia, PA fred walton retweeted The Greek Analyst This poll from ProRata shows Syriza leading ND.. fred walton added, *The Greek Analyst* @GreekAnalyst #Greece: Prorata Poll SYRIZA 28% ND 24… *fred walton* @fredwalton216 6h 6 hours agoPhiladelphia, PA fred wal... more »
Rosh Hashanah’s Shout for Joy
[image: Rosh Hashanah - 900 000] AL PERROTTA -- Rosh Hashanah, the Feast of Trumpets, the launching of the New Year for God’s Chosen People, came to a close at sunset Tuesday night. This Feast was to be a day to “blow the trumpets” (Numbers 29:1)... more »
Dusan Djukaric - watercolourist - Belgrade
Dusan Djukaric is a mesmerising *watercolourist* from Belgrade - the artistic freedom and graphical looseness in teh rendering of his watercolour images is something special...
Dutch Air Force Chief Slams US Army Helicopter Plan
[image: Lt. Gen. Alexander Schnitger]The head of the Royal Netherlands Air Force has a message for his U.S. Army colleagues developing the military helicopter of the future: You’re doing it all wrong. In a blunt address to a room of global helicopter experts, Lt. Gen. Alexander Schnitger said the two primary designs being evaluated by the Army are not ambitious enough and could fall far short of what NATO needs to win a war. “Sure, requirements call for a helicopter that is twice as fast and can fly twice as far as the current generation, but both solutions are based on ’80s techno... more »
ASV to Deliver Unmanned Surface Vehicle Systems to Anglo-French MMCM Program
[image: MMCM Halcyon mark II]Recognised as a world leader in the provision of autonomous surface vehicles, ASV has been enlisted as part of the Thales-BAE consortium to develop and deliver the first complete operational unmanned mine countermeasures system. The programme seeks to offer a low risk, robust and reliable solution into the UK/French Maritime Mine Countermeasures (MMCM) requirement. The USV capability to be provided by ASV has been proven and validated at sea through the Halcyon multi-role USV. The vehicle which was showcased at DSEI 2013 had its full autonomy capability ... more »
Sept. 15: Good Christian men rejoice!
Still got your Charlie Hebdo T shirt? You remember, Charlie Hebdo was that freedom loving cartoon paper in France that we all cheered for when it was attacked and some of its staff killed for its almost obscene cartoons making fun of Muslims, especially Muhammed. Christians all over the world cheered, and bought T shirts that screamed their support for Charlie Hebdo. Well, get your T shirt out again, and be ready to cheer once more for free speech and Christian morality. They've just put out a new cartoon issue. The Irving press didn't carry it though they, as I recall, cheered as... more »
Advanced LIGO is getting started
LIGO was proposed by Thorne and Drever at Caltech and Weiss at MIT in the early 1990s. The construction between 2002-2010 culminated with some detection run and no gravitational waves have been detected so far. People who walk there must think that the extraterrestrials have built some bizarre, useless caves here. The LIGO runs two sibling facilities, L-shaped corridors with the vacuum inside whose diameter is 4 km. One of them is in Louisiana, the other one is in the Washington State. At $0.365 billion, the price tag is nowhere near the LHC but it is the largest single experiment ... more »
U.S. Air Force warns F-35 order review could damage program
[image: F-35 BK-1 Lightning II]U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff General Mark Welsh on Tuesday warned that short-term moves to revise downward the Air Force's planned purchase of 1,763 Lockheed Martin Corp F-35 stealth fighters could damage the program and scare off foreign buyers. "Let’s delay this discussion for a little while until we see what happens in the world," Welsh told reporters at the annual Air Force Association conference, citing efforts by Russia and China to field more advanced fighter aircraft of their own. "All we do right now is risk damaging a program that's now gain... more »
American Osprey Lands on Spanish Ship
Maj. Bret Knickerbocker has made hundreds of landings in the MV-22B Osprey, but last week, something was different. It was his first opportunity to land on a Spanish amphibious assault ship, just off the coast of Spain, Sept. 9, 2015. "The goal of practicing landing the MV-22B Osprey on Juan Carlos I is to maintain our proficiency and familiarize the process while working with the Spanish Navy," said Knickerbocker, an MV-22B Osprey pilot with Special-Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force Crisis Response-Africa. "We have to make sure we are familiar with standard patterns, signals a... more »
India, US discuss plans to develop next-gen aircraft carrier
[image: USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78)]India and the US have started discussions to jointly develop a next-generation aircraft carrier to bolster the Indian Navy's blue-water capabilities, a top Pentagon official has said. During US President Barack Obama's visit to India in January, the two countries had announced the establishment of a working group for the proposed aircraft carrier, which held its first ever meeting here last month. The Indian delegation led by Vice Admiral S P S Cheema, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C), Western Naval Command, also visited the US Navy... more »
Creation and the Heart Of Man
[image: Creation and the Heart Of Man] Rooted in the tradition of the Orthodox Church and its teaching on the relationship between God, humanity and all creation, Fr. Michael Butler and Prof. Andrew Morriss offer a new contribution to Orthodox environmental theology. Too often policy recommendations from... more »
Blind Long-Snapper Jake Olson Joins Practice With No. 6 USC
[image: FILE - In this Jan. 11, 2014, file photo, Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll, left, talks with Jake Olson, 16, before an NFC divisional playoff NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in Seattle. Olson, a blind football player who is a long-snapper attending Southern California on a special athletic scholarship for physically challenged athletes, practiced with for the first time with the sixth-ranked Trojans, Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2015. Eligibility issues had prevented him from officially joining the team until Tuesday. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson, File)] LOS ANGE... more »
Glenn Beck: Tea Party People Who Back Trump Are Racists
[image: Glenn Beck - 400] On Tuesday, talk radio host Glenn Beck accused the Tea Party supporters of GOP presidential candidate Donald Trump of being racists. While he questioned whether Trump's supporters are genuine Tea Partiers, Beck said of them, "If you were a Tea... Continue reading *“Glenn Beck: Tea Party People Who Back Trump Are Racists”* at *breitbart.com*.
Navy Integrating SeaRAM on Rota-Based DDGs; First Installation Complete In November
The four ballistic missile defense destroyers patrolling 6th Fleet will get a self-protection upgrade beginning this year, as the Navy integrates Raytheon’s Sea Rolling Airframe Missile (SeaRAM) onto its Aegis-equipped Arleigh Burke-class destroyers (DDG-51) for the first time. U.S. 6th Fleet leadership sent an urgent requirement for self-protection on the four ships, which focus all their energy on the BMD mission, Program Executive Officer for Integrated Warfare Systems (PEO IWS) Rear Adm. Jon Hill said last week at an American Society of Naval Engineers event. “We put [the ships... more »
Missile destroyer INS Kochi to be commissioned on September 30
[image: INS Kolkata (D63)]INS Kochi, will be commissioned into Navy later this month by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar. Built by Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL), the new ship is part of the Kolkata-class (Project 15A) guided missile destroyers. The first ship of the class, INS Kolkata, was commissioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year. Read more
S. Korean Aegis Tasked with Detecting N. Korean Rocket
[image: ROKS Sejong the Great (DDG_991)]The South Korean Navy is said to have mobilized the full-fledged missile-detection capabilities of an Aegis-equipped warship after North Korea indicated a possible long-range rocket launch next month. A Navy official said Wednesday that to his knowledge, one of the Aegis Destroyers operating in the East Sea has been officially given the task of detecting a long-range rocket from the North. The official said the SPY-1D radar, a multi-function phased-array radar, is already built into the Aegis weapons system, but extra maneuvering is needed in... more »
BAE Systems Continues Success on U.K. Type 26 Global Combat Ship
BAE Systems today confirmed its selection as preferred bidder by the U.K. Ministry of Defence (MOD) to provide the gun system, known as the Maritime Indirect Fires System (MIFS), for the Type 26 Global Combat Ship. This follows the MOD’s £859 million Demonstration Phase contract for the Type 26 program that was awarded to BAE Systems earlier this year. Subject to contract award, BAE Systems will provide the MIFS Integrated Gunnery System (IGS), which includes the 5-inch, 62-caliber Mk 45 Mod 4 Naval Gun System, along with an automated Ammunition Handling System, Gun Fire Control Sy... more »
U.S. Trumped? (The Fraction of the One Percent that Makes the Vital Decisions Knows that What’s Important Is Not So Much Which Candidate Wins, As that the System Wins, by Reaffirming Its Legitimacy As Voters Dutifully Go to Polls, Voting for Tweedledee or Tweedledum, Only to Become Disillusioned, Voting Next Time for the “Other Party” As an Impotent “Protest” Leading Nowhere)
The articles referenced in today's essay must be great fiction. Because there is no way this can be true about the current conditions in the U.S. A. and the conduct of its wars. It has been said that America’s schools are the training ground for future generations. Instead of raising up a generation of freedom fighters, however, we seem to be busy churning out newly minted citizens of the
DSEI: Upgraded Merlin HM2 fully operational with Royal Navy
[image: Merlin HM2]The Royal Navy’s AgustaWestland Merlin HM2 helicopter fleet has achieved full operational capability, with 80% of its eventual 30 modified aircraft having been returned to use. Announced during the Defence and Security Equipment International (DSEI) exhibition in London on 15 September, the development is a declaration that the type is “able to support Royal Navy frigates, destroyers and eventually the Queen Elizabeth-class carriers on operations around the world”, says Lockheed. The Merlin fleet is being modified under a capability sustainment programme worth £8... more »
France's DCNS in talks with Fincantieri about JV - media report
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[image: IT Carlo Bergamini (F590)]French naval shipbuilder DCNS and Italian rival Fincantieri are in discussions about creating a joint venture, latribune.fr website reported on Friday. The two companies agreed this summer to come up with a roadmap to determine projects on which they could cooperate, a source close to the matter told Reuters. According to latribune.fr, the talks cover programmes such as the Multi-Mission Frigate (FREMM), research and development on future combat systems, equipment and marketing. Read more
PLA Navy's Sanya base a prime target, says People's Daily
China's nearly complete naval facility in the southern island province of Hainan would be a primary target for both air, surface and underwater attacks in a military dispute over contested territories in the South China Sea, Rear Admiral Yin Zhuo was cited as saying in the Communist Party mouthpiece People's Daily. The PLA Navy's new base in Sanya can accommodate two aircraft carriers, according to the Canada-based Kanwa Defense Review. The 700-meter dock is twice as long as US aircraft carrier docks at Yokosuka and Norfolk and boasts the longest carrier berth in the world. The fa... more »
First Steel Cut For Saab Kockums A26 Submarine
Defence and security company Saab has begun construction of the world’s most modern submarine programme, the A26. On Friday 4 September 2015 the first steel was cut for the first submarine’s hull. The construction phase for the Swedish Navy’s A26 next-generation submarine has officially begun. On 4 September 2015 at the Saab Kockums shipyard in Karlskrona, the first steel for the new vessel was cut. This is a key milestone for the world’s most modern submarine programme. The A26 is a next-generation submarine with the ability to perform in all oceans and across a broad spectrum of ... more »
Brazilian Navy completes first phase of S-BR1 submarine construction
[image: S-BR1 Riachuelo SSK]The Brazilian Navy has achieved a significant milestone in the Prosub submarine development programme after Nuclebrás Heavy Equipment delivered the final section of the pressure hull of the first conventional submarine (S-BR1). Itaguaí Construção Naval (ICN) received the pressure hull, marking the completion of the first phase of construction of the submarine, Riachuelo. Composed of structurally reinforced cylindrical sections, the pressure hull will withstand the maximum operating pressure of the submarine. Read more
Here’s How Religion Shaped Margaret Thatcher’s Politics
[image: Margaret_Thatcher_near_helicopter_900] Few people are aware that Margaret Thatcher, British Prime Minister 1979-1990 and one of the foremost politicians of the twentieth century, was a lay Methodist preacher before she entered politics. There has been very little examination into the role that... more »
Three-way contest for submarine program
[image: Collins class SSK]And then there were three. The federal government has reduced the choice of Australia's next-generation submarines to a three-way contest in an ad hoc defence department "competitive evaluation process" (CEP). The names of the contenders are now well-known, although little is known about them or about the CEP which will report to cabinet next year. The contenders are the Japanese Soryu, the French "short-fin" Barracuda, and the German Type-216 submarines. Depending on their roles and missions, and depending on how they are equipped to fight, any of the con... more »
Quantum Computing Will Bring Immense Processing Possibilities
[image: (D-Wave, CC BY 3.0)] I hate to say it, but the simplicity of the adding machine has produced modern computers. Whatever the next advance happens to be, it has to be in the form of a readily repeatable protocol that can be properly imagined i have recently come to understand that all life is managed by what i can only call logic machines. Their architecture consists of elements of Dark Matter looking like a weak dipole. They set up to form a natural loose matrix in three dimensions and they are all somewhat bound together with photon strips looping around two such dipoles... more »
The Theory of Parallel Universes Is Science That Can Be Tested?
A useful presentation of present thinking though the implied rigor of certain statements will not be appreciated by most. Meanwhile, as my readers know, i have constructed a cosmology that is founded on a thought experiment informed by an expanded understanding of the foundations of mathematics. This includes nth ordered metrics able to accommodate all n fundamental particles contained in the universe and a successful model of the fundamental particle itself leading to the assembly of all other particles by rigorous mathematical technique. From this I have recently come to appr... more »
Lime Juice Could Save 100’s of Thousands of Lives Each Year
How about lime juice and quinine while we are at it. The therapeutic effects are completely surprising and must surely go beyond simple acid content. I do like the effect on fish. I would consider dipping a fresh piece of fish in a solution of lime juice in order to extend its natural shelf life. Fish is our most sensitive meat and needs help. This knowledge needs to be well shared in culinary circles because it is very suggestive in terms of food preparation. . . *Lime Juice Could Save 100’s of Thousands of Lives Each Year * *By Sayer Ji* *The lime is best know for its ro... more »
10 Natural Remedies for Kidney Stones
If you have suddenly developed a problem then i would use the first protocol. hopefully that does it. the rest sound helpful bit are likely weaker in effect. The magnesium dose is also likely beneficial in a number of ways and should be added in. Otherwise this is a goodly compentium that allows us to compare and make choices with some confidence. *10 Natural Remedies for Kidney Stones * *By Dr. Edward F. Group* *The kidneys are one of the most important organs in the human body. The kidneys help to detox and filter impurities from the blood, as well as waste products fro... more »
China is trying to undercut Germany by offering submarines to Egypt for a lower price
[image: Type 039A (Yuan) class SSK]China is trying to sell two submarines to Egypt that are cheaper than vessels on offer from Germany, industry sources told Reuters, as Beijing looks to expand weapons exports beyond its traditional customer base in Asia. Beijing has sought to undercut Western submarine makers on price and by offering attractive export-credit terms for sales in Asia, the sources said. It has won deals with Pakistan and Bangladesh so far. China displaced Germany as the world's third-largest arms exporter, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) s... more »
Thank you, KMT, for letting Hung have unscripted Press Conferences
Hung and the cheerleaders, with English subtitles. The blurb by Solidarity has it perfect: KMT presidential candidate Hung Hsiu-chu (洪秀柱) today held a press conference to highlight the plight of 3 young women, Chloe (董梓甯), Chen Yi ( 陳伊), and Fan (小帆), former Lamigo Monkeys cheerleaders who were fired by the team soon after netizens pointed out they'd appeared in a young-people-for-Hung calendar. According to a team press release (http://www.lamigo-monkeys.com.tw/e_ne...), the three had repeatedly violated team rules by appearing in baseball-related outside promotions (under the nam... more »
Still No Pentagon Discussions With The Russian Military On How To Avoid An Accidental Incident In Syria
*The Hill:** US has no plans yet for Syrian airspace despite Russian presence* The Pentagon has no plans yet for how it would deconflict its air operations in Syria with Russia's, despite signs Moscow is establishing a forward air operating base to help bolster the Assad regime, according to U.S. officials. While Defense Department officials say they are concerned about U.S. aircraft operating in Syrian airspace along with Russia's, they acknowledge there are no plans yet on how to handle it. A U.S. official said on background that there is "no idea" on how it would happen, an... more »
Top U.S. Air Force General In Europe And Africa: Russia Has 'Closed The Gap' With U.S., NATO Air Power
*National Defense:* *Air Force Leaders Warn Russia Closing Gap With U.S.* NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. — Russia is modernizing its air force, deploying advanced air defenses and training its pilots specifically to thwart U.S. operations in Europe. The Russian air force has become “more professional” and has better equipment than it did a decade ago, said Gen. Frank Gorenc, commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa commander. “The advantage that we have from the air, I can honestly say, is shrinking,” Gorenc said Sept. 14 at a news conference at the Air Force Associatio... more »
Israeli PM Netanyahu vows stone-thrower crackdown per BBC News
This BBC report http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-34264938 was the first that I have found where the BBC report the death of Alexander Levlovitz. As usual with the institutionally anti Israel BBC they only report the death of a Jewish Israeli when Israel responds to that death. 'The Israeli prime minister has vowed to "use all necessary means" to stop stone throwers after an Israeli man died in a car crash linked to such an attack. Benjamin Netanyahu's statement came after an emergency meeting of his cabinet and security chiefs. Alexander Levlovitz died in a car accident... more »
Civilian? Not an Insult
Over the past week, in reaction to the reports about the gender-integrated Marine study, I have seen plenty of pushback mostly against women who tweet but also some male tweeps that basically say: “civ? Of course.” Which basically says that if you are civilian, you will have dumb opinions about the military. Kind of like […]
Is Joe Biden Really the Answer to the Democrats’ Problems?
[image: US-POLITICS-OBAMA-LGBT] The wheels haven’t come off Hillary Rodham Clinton’s bus quite yet, but they’re getting wobblier. Hence the Joe Biden boomlet. As a columnist, never mind as a conservative, I think it’s a fantastic idea. (A Biden vs. Trump debate would...mor
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