English: Spratly and Paracel Islands, from NASA World Wind Category:Maps of the Paracel Islands Category:Maps of the Spratly Islands (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Map of the Spratly Islands. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)RAND Study: A U.S. - China War Will Be The Most Destructive War Since The Second World War
*Defense News:* *Analysis: RAND Says US Facing Tough Fight With China* TAIPEI — A new RAND report challenges the US military to rethink a war with China. The report examines US and Chinese military capabilities in 10 operational areas, producing a “scorecard” for each, from four years: 1996, 2003, 2010, and 2017. Each of the scorecards evaluates capabilities in the context of geography and distance, each of the scorecards evaluates capabilities in the context of two scenarios: a Taiwan invasion and a Spratly Islands campaign. These scenarios center on locations that lie roughly 160... more »
Free Trade 53, TPP "final push" this September + paper by Dr. Clarete
There are rush efforts this month to finally push a Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP) Agreement. Here are some few news reports, September 16-18, 2015. From the Globe and Mail: *An effort to land a massive Pacific Rim free trade agreement within weeks is under way, raising the prospect the wide-ranging Trans-Pacific Partnership could dominate the final stretch of the Canadian election campaign.* *The costs of entry to the Trans-Pacific Partnership could include exposing the Canadian auto parts sector, which employs 80,000 people, to far more foreign competition and eroding the pref... more »
"Of Sound Mind..."
“A man who is "of sound mind" is one who keeps the inner madman under lock and key.” - Paul Valéry, “Mauvaises Pensées et Autres”, 1942
The Poet: John O’Donohue, “For The Time Of Necessary Decision”
*“For The Time Of Necessary Decision”* “The mind of time is hard to read. We can never predict what it will bring, Nor even from all that is already gone Can we say what form it finally takes; For time gathers its moments secretly. Often we only know it’s time to change When a force has built inside the heart That leaves us uneasy as we are. Perhaps the work we do has lost its soul Or the love where we once belonged Calls nothing alive in us anymore. We drift through this gray, increasing nowhere Until we stand before a threshold we know We have to cross to come alive once more. May we ... more »
Jimi Hendrix: Remembrances
I was in college in the mid and late 1960s. College for me was mostly about getting high-- on drugs, liberation politics and music. As chairman of Stony Brook's Student Activities Board, I got to do all three. I invited Timothy Leary to come give a lecture, and he gave me some very pure LSD when I picked him up at the airport. I used it for my first acid trip. Recently I wrote about the experience of having Julian Bond and Strom Thurmond come out to the school as part of the same lecture series. As for music... I've written about it many times here at *DWT* over the years. I was ... more »
"We Deny..."
"We deny that we're tired, we deny that we're scared, we deny how badly we want to succeed. And most importantly, we deny that we're in denial. We only see what we want to see and believe what we want to believe, and it works. We lie to ourselves so much that after a while the lies start to seem like the truth. We deny so much that we can't recognize the truth right in front of our faces." - "Dr. Meredith Grey," "Grey's Anatomy"
“Avoiding Negative Vibrations: Taking on the Energy of Others”
*“Avoiding Negative Vibrations: **Taking on the Energy of Others”* by The DailyOm “In order to protect ourselves from taking on any negative energy from other people or situations we can learn to shield. There are times when you may find that being around certain individuals or groups of people leaves you with feelings of discomfort. It may be that spending time with a particular friend feels draining or that dealing with a specific coworker exhausts you. Being around toxic or angry people is also draining. And you may even find that being surrounded by a crowd of people lowers your... more »
The Syrian War Is About To Escalate Significantly
*(Click on Image to Enlarge)* *Institute For The Study Of War:* *The Syrian war's trajectory could radically shift soon* The trajectory of the Syrian Civil War may fundamentally shift within the 90 day timeframe. Russia escalated its military assistance on behalf of the Syrian regime in early September 2015, deploying armored vehicles and hundreds of personnel to the Syrian Coast in preparation for the establishment of at least one forward air operations base. Rebel factions led by Syrian al-Qaeda affiliate Jabhat al- Nusra (JN) continue to pressure the regime’s stronghold along t... more »
She Said He Said
she said: U talk like a crossword puzle he said: Why dont you solve me
Stephen Harper, Prime Minister Moosehead
*Written by Grant G* Sweet, seductive and oh so feminine, the eyes are the entrance way to the soul and as a man I find many female attributes appealing but nothing can compare to inner feelings brought on by a direct gaze into a woman`s eyes.. Stephen Harper`s reference to "*Old stock Canadians*" in itself would be an inert statement, but in last night`s debate it wasn`t, Stephen Harper uttered those words when the debate moved into the refugee and niquab issue, and perhaps Canadian people are making too much of a big deal over the inappropriate comment but I don`t think so... ... more »
For better reading: Libraries, not heavy phonics
Sent to The Australian, September 18 The Chief Executive Officer at the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority wants a concentration on phonics because of its importance in developing reading ability ("Phonics, faith and coding for primary school kids," September 19) This doesn't agree with what the research says. The research says that heavy, intensive phonics instruction does not lead to better performance on tests of reading comprehension, tests in which children have to understand what they read. The research says that those who read better are those who hav... more »
Hungary's Foreign Affairs Minister: 35 Million Migrants Heading To Europe
Migrants stand in front of a barrier at the border with Hungary near the village of Horgos, Serbia, September 16, 2015. REUTERS/MARKO DJURICA *Express*: *35 MILLION migrants heading to Europe, says Hungary as it builds second fence* SHOCK estimates predict up to 35 MILLION refugees could head for Europe due to hugely unstable situations across the world. The huge figure was revealed today by Hungary's minister for foreign affairs and trade Peter Szijjártó. Speaking as the country begins work on its second fence to stop migrants heading across its border he predicted the current cr... more »
Court Rules against ObamaCare Birth Control Mandate
[image: Court Rules Against ObamaCare Birth Control Mandate] A federal appeals court on Thursday ruled against ObamaCare's birth control mandate in a decision that could invite a Supreme Court review. The 8th Circuit Court of Appeals ruled that four Christian nonprofits should not have to comply with the... Continue reading *“Court Rules against ObamaCare Birth Control Mandate”* at *thehill.com*.
EU Migration Crisis -- September 18, 2015
*Washington Post:* *Asylum seekers confront rejection as Europe puts up roadblocks* BREGANA, Croatia — On a grim march through countries that do not want them, the tens of thousands of asylum seekers making their way across Europe again faced rejection Friday, as Croatia tried to funnel them into Hungary and Slovenian border guards barred entrance into their country. It was the latest upheaval for the men, women and children fleeing war and poverty after their once-straightforward path to the havens of Germany and Sweden was choked off this week when Hungary closed its borders. Fo... more »
Culture Watch: Have you ever wondered about the history of obituaries? Wonder no more!
*N. Joseph Woodland, inventor of the bar code, is seen here -- according to the NYT caption that accompanied his December 2012 obit -- "explaining his prototype scanner for products with bar codes."* *by Ken* Now and then you stumble across a piece that not only articulates a question you didn't even realize you had but proceeds to answer it, and perhaps even answer it as spectacularly well as Molly Birnbaum's "The Perpetually Dying Art of the Small-Town Obituary," another great find on the Atlas Obscura website. Actually, the head is much too limited. While Molly has fascinating ... more »
Tonight's Movie Is 'Jarhead'
From *Wikipedia**:* Jarhead is a 2005 biographical drama military film based on U.S. Marine Anthony Swofford's 2003 memoir of the same name, directed by Sam Mendes, starring Jake Gyllenhaal as Swofford with Jamie Foxx, Peter Sarsgaard and Chris Cooper. The title comes from the slang term used to refer to United States Marines.
Tung Chen-yuan's presentation at SAIS on the upcoming Taiwan election
Here is a data-rich presentation on the upcoming election. 65 slides, posted with permission. Click on... _______________________ [Taiwan] Don't miss the comments below! And check out my blog and its sidebars for events, links to previous posts and picture posts, and scores of links to other Taiwan blogs and forums!
Commentaries, Analysis, And Editorials -- September 18, 2015
*Andrew Osborn, Reuters:* *Syrian army reversals spook Kremlin into hasty military build-up* MOSCOW (Reuters) - For Vladimir Putin, Russia's military build-up in Syria is a potential diplomatic trump card and a handy way of diverting attention from Ukraine's frozen conflict. But it was a panicky realization that the Syrian government was being turned over on the battlefield that tipped the Kremlin's hand. When it saw several months ago that Syrian government forces were retreating on several fronts at a rate that threatened President Bashar al-Assad, its closest Middle East ally,... more »
A Simple Idea for Better Health and Control of Your Emotions
*Anna Hunt *- Breathing practices may help you improve your health and have better control over your emotions and actions. The post A Simple Idea for Better Health and Control of Your Emotions appeared first on Waking Times.
Macleans Magazine Wakes Up
Thanks for finally noticing, Macleans. Better late than never I suppose but really, it's just too late to matter. The destruction has been completed. http://www.macleans.ca/news/canada/vanishing-canada-why-were-all-losers-in-ottawas-war-on-data/
ANALYSIS: Is Economics Amoral?
[image: ANALYSIS: Is Economics Amoral?] Economist and theologian Paul Heyne once asked the question, "Are economists basically immoral?" He asked this because economists have a frustrating tendency to interrupt the high moral aspirations of others with complications about how, in the real world, life is... Continue reading *“ANALYSIS: Is Economics Amoral?”* at *acton.org*.
Eating This Homeade Probiotic Food Prevents Lethal Cancer
*Sayer Ji* - This food is one of your best allies in preventing cancer. The post Eating This Homeade Probiotic Food Prevents Lethal Cancer appeared first on Waking Times.
Her Name is ‘Bella': Authorities ID Boston’s ‘Baby Doe’
[image: Her Name is 'Bella': Authorities ID Boston's 'Baby Doe'] BOSTON (AP) -- A mother and her boyfriend are “blaming each other” for the death of a little girl whose body was found inside a trash bag on a Boston Harbor island this summer, a state official said Friday, after...more »
Pope Francis’ New Accessory is the Cross of a Beheaded Iraqi Priest
[image: Pope Francis with cross - Wikimedia] Pope Francis said Thursday that he wears around his neck a cross that once belonged to an Iraqi priest who was beheaded for his faith. Speaking to a convention of 5,000 young monks and nuns, he began his remarks by... more »
Debate Bounce: Carly Leaps to Lead in One-Day New Hampshire Poll
[image: Carly-Fiorina-CNN-GOP-debate - 400] Presidential candidate Carly Fiorina is leading the GOP field in New Hampshire, a new poll finds. A Voter Gravity poll released Friday shows Fiorina with 22 percent support among Granite State GOP primary voters. She has a 4-point edge over her... Continue reading *“Debate Bounce: Carly Leaps to Lead in One-Day New Hampshire Poll”* at *thehill.com*.
Catholic Leaders Denounce White House for Inviting Pro-Abortion, Gay Rights Activists to Pope’s Reception
[image: Pope Francis Looking Down Praying - 400] Prominent Catholic leaders are denouncing the White House for inviting pro-abortion and gay rights activists to a reception honoring Pope Francis during the pontiff’s visit to Washington next week. The Wall Street Journal reported that "the Vatican has taken offense at the... Continue reading *“Catholic Leaders Denounce White House for Inviting Pro-Abortion, Gay Rights Activists to Pope’s Reception”* at *cnsnews.com*.
Obama Nominates First Openly Gay Army Secretary
[image: Eric Fanning - 900] WASHINGTON (AP) -- President Barack Obama is nominating longtime Pentagon official Eric Fanning to be the Army’s new secretary. If confirmed, Fanning would be the nation’s first openly gay leader of a military service. Obama says Fanning brings years of experience... more »
World News Briefs -- September 18, 2015 (Evening Edition)
*Wall Street Journal:* *Russia Moves Its First Tactical Fighter Jets to Base in Syria* Move raises U.S. concerns Moscow will play direct role in helping Bashar al-Assad WASHINGTON—Russia has moved its first fighter jets to a growing base in Syria, defense officials said Friday, raising new concerns Moscow is preparing to play a direct role in helping embattled President Bashar al-Assad against Islamic State militants. Moscow’s military moves came as U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter spoke to his Russian counterpart about Russia’s deepening role in Syria, ending a long pause in h... more »
AP: Marines Seek to Keep Certain Combat Jobs Closed to Women
[image: U.S. Marines attached to Marine Wing Support Squadron 172, 7th Communication Battalion, III Marine Expeditionary Force Combat Camera and the Provost Marshal's Office conduct combat exercises at the Jungle Warfare Training Center (JWTC) on Camp Gonsalves, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 21, 2009. JWTC training shows service members how to become effective war fighters in a jungle environment by teaching them land navigation, small unit leadership, patrolling and obstacle maneuvering. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Leon M. Branchaud/Released)] WASHINGTON (AP) -- U.S. officials say the c... more »
How dairy fats and coconut protect against type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes, in the etiology laid out by Professor Roy Taylor, is (in its usual form at any rate) a condition of fat accumulation in the pancreas, liver, and muscle cells, which causes insulin resistance, hyperinsulinaemia, hyperglucagonaemia, and a vicious cycle of glucotoxicity and lipotoxicity.[1] It is thus one of a constellation of associated lipid accumulation disorders connected with hyperinsulinaemia, the others including atherosclerosis, NAFLD, obesity. That these conditions are linked in some way was recognised as early as the 1880s by the great German physiologist ... more »
What If The Islamic State Wins?
*Landon Shroder, VICE News:* *What if the Islamic State Won?* More than 50 analysts at US Central Command have recently said that claims of the so-called Islamic State's weakness have been greatly exaggerated. If analysts' allegations are correct, maybe it's time to start asking the question everyone seems intent on avoiding: What happens if IS can't be defeated? Do we then have to acknowledge the possibility of an IS victory? We're not talking about a global "convert or die" type of victory that would see the world consumed by the apocalyptic ambitions of IS's megalomaniacal leade... more »
Was Trumpy Right About Carly Fiorina? Let's Look At That Face From A Planned Parenthood Perspective
Maybe when Trump looked at Fiorina's face and made the infamous and sexist remark, he wasn't talking about her being "ugly" per se, but about the twisted *inner* ugliness that was on display for the whole country during Wednesday night's CNN debate. DO LOOK AT THAT FACE-- it was twisted, contorted and misshapen in the same way Hitler's was when he was trying to manipulate large audiences. Fiorina was forcefully asserting that the blatant lies she was spouting were A Truth worth fighting for. And when sociopaths like Fiorina lie, they get intense as a mechanism for persuading lo-i... more »
Sept. 18: Let's start with China...
...because there isn't a whole lot to talk about in the Irving press. China is the biggest country in the world, and it's (maybe) on track to have the most economic power and, with that, the most political and military power in the world within decades. That being so, it's odd to see it so rarely even mentioned in the Irving press. We've had far more news of a new hockey rink than on something that could shake our earth to its foundations. So, where to start? Let's start with the word communism. Discussion of communism in China goes back well over a century. But it wasn't until the ... more »
Beyond the Abortion Wars: A Book Review
[image: Camosy book cover] Recently, after a too-expensive trip to the Strand bookstore on 12th Street, I was making my way to the subway when I noticed a protest going on two blocks away in Union Square Park. This is standard: Union Square is... Continue reading *“Beyond the Abortion Wars: A Book Review”* at *humanlifereview.com*.
Is The Islamic State 'Falling Apart'
Islamist fighters parading through the streets of Raqqa, the de facto capital of the ISIS empire *Daily Mail:** Is this the end of Isis? British special forces colonel claims devastating loss of land and troops thanks to air strikes and battles with Kurdish forces will lead to 'house of cards' falling down* * One British Colonel reportedly said ISIS are 'fragile' and in a 'poor position' * Brigadier added it was just a 'question of time' before jihadis were defeated * Kurdish fighter did not have 'a clue' before getting training from UK troops * Terrorist numbers said to have falle... more »
Ann Coulter, Do You Have a Problem With the Jews?
[image: Ann Coulter - 900] Dear Ann, You're obviously no stranger to controversy. To the contrary, you seem to thrive on controversy. In fact, you seem to enjoy provoking it. Yet your comments during Wednesday's presidential debate seemed over the top even for you, especially... more »
Judge Awards $4 Million to Daughter of Woman Kermit Gosnell Killed in Botched Abortion
[image: gosnell - 400] In Philadelphia, a judge has awarded nearly $4 million to the daughter of a the woman who died under the care of Kermit Gosnell, the late-term abortionist who was convicted on three counts of first-degree murder in 2013. As LifeNews... Continue reading *“Judge Awards $4 Million to Daughter of Woman Kermit Gosnell Killed in Botched Abortion”* at *lifenews.com*.
(Trump's Trap? Gladiator City! Fist-fights May Be Necessary?) North Carolina Republican Junta To End NC Teachers' Retirement Health Benefits Secretly (First You Run Against and Destroy It, Then Take Credit for Rebuilding In Your Image) Sounds Like the Iraq Plan (by PNAC)
If you think the Republican takeover of the North Carolina General Assembly was without some Koch-sponsored, long-term, state-deadening goals, then you're in line for some pretty big surprises before these boys leave town. (And I do mean boys, although the few girls jumping into the pile with them have no girlish apologies to make. It's medieval in there.) The Missing Buzz over the State
The Coming War in Vojvodina
*Powder Keg : Refugees of the War of Terror and the Coming War in Vojvodina* *The Great Serb Migration of 1690*
No body has the strength to win this new war
A war on mind and body mostly works ont the individual through sleep deprivation and that is the bed we all lie in because w we did nothing when the enemy attacked we alone in our lost hours sleep bed keep on keeping on obeying all the rules and then we did not have the time to read the headline for the good of Mankind you are now ruled FUCK THE LIZARD BRIAN LSD WILL CUT IT AWAY IF YU CNA HANDLE THE CHARGE
No body has the strength to win this new war
A war on mind and body mostly works ont the individual through sleep deprivation and that is the bed we all lie in because w we did nothing when the enemy attacked we alone in our lost hours sleep bed keep on keeping on obeying all the rules and then we did not have the time to read the headline for the good of Mankind you are now ruled FUCK THE LIZARD BRIAN LSD WILL CUT IT AWAY IF YU CNA HANDLE THE CHARGE
Grecian Lions
"As he [Xerxes] was proceeding by this way, lions attacked the camels which carried his provisions; for the lions used to come down regularly by night, leaving their own haunts, but they touched nothing else, neither beast of burden nor man, but killed the camels only: and I marvel what was the cause, and what was it that impelled the lions to abstain from all else and to attack the camels only, creatures which they had never seen before, and of which they had had no experience."
House Approves Act to Defund Planned Parenthood, But It’s Unlikely to Work
[image: Planned Parenthood10 - 900] The House of Representatives voted Friday to place a one-year moratorium on funding for Planned Parenthood. In a mostly party-line vote of 241-187, the Defund Planned Parenthood Act also approves investing another $235 million in Federally Qualified Health Centers in... more »
Obama Administration Slams Conservative School as Not a Real College
[image: Washington Statue, Fall 2009] An Obama administration representative took a shot at a well-known conservative college Thursday, saying the school wasn't included on its much-heralded new "College Scorecard" because it isn't a real two-to-four year college. Hillsdale College, a 1,500-student liberal arts college in... more »
The Unpundit Mom’s Scorecard for CNN’s GOP Presidential Debate
[image: SIMI VALLEY, CA - SEPTEMBER 16: Republican presidential candidates stand onstage during the presidential debates at the Reagan Library on September 16, 2015 in Simi Valley, California.] I’m calling Wednesday night’s GOP debates for Rick Santorum in the undercard debate and Carly Fiorina in the main event. It was a profitable debate with many substantive moments. We have a good crop of candidates from which to choose,... more »
Untitled
The zoimvie apoalyste is wella upon ujs becase terir was n wta ti caoutukve t= tiyrb=bs'd cys rw dwuisz Allen akj msticfich when the power goes out I live ib 0NTAIO thus is the reason after a lifetime (I should be proud ontario the power we contracted for has failed in this zoinbue oiyt but at least i
Free Trade Free Trade Free Trade as useful in practise as Communism for capitalist
Its all about the nickel or in the reality of high frequency trending a nano sent traded at the speed of light twice while you at your keyboard slept like twelve hours If the giant squid is to conquer the entire world and enslave humans in an better way than eUNchs he must pass treaties like Jabba the Hut even if your powerful you need alliances to assume perpetuity cause there is always a Paul Krugman a real smart ass who understands what you are doing and can not be paid off and is too high profile to kill Right now today our future is on some kind of balance if somehow we push the... more »
Dear - certain - serving and retired veterans and police
Know that by posting anti-Muslim, anti-immigrant, and often pro-Harper bullshit on social media, you're actually harming Canadians' sympathies for you. The Tories really haven't done much for you, and any future government might find it very easy to ignore all of you, if some of you keep posting far-right news and commentary and the Canadian public starts to lose its sympathies. The partisan
The War on Human DNA
*Julian Rose* - Humans are being altered and transformed into something not at all human. The post The War on Human DNA appeared first on Waking Times.
Russian Security Service: 2,400 Russian Nationals Fighting For The Islamic State
At least 2,400 Russian nationals are fighting for Isis terror group in Syria, Iraq. (representation pic) Twitter/Iranian Post *IBTimes:* *Moscow: 2,400 Russian nationals fighting for Isis in Syria, Iraq* Moscow has revealed that it has information of at least 2,400 Russian nationals fighting for the Islamic State (isis) terrorist group in Syria and Iraq. The First Deputy Director of Federal Security, Sergei Smirnov, said on Friday that of the 3,000 Central Asian nationals, at least 2,400 are Russians. According to the RIA news agency report, Smirnov told journalists that the mig... more »
House Democrats Finally Made to See the Undercover Planned Parenthood Videos in Hearing
[image: Blackburn_PP_health_hearing] The Subcommittee on Health of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce presented the undercover Planned Parenthood videos Thursday, which were discussed at length by Republican members and dismissed in outrage by Democrats. It was the first time many of the Democrats... more »
Photos Navajo in Palestine: 'Ethnic Cleansing: The Apartheid Wall'
By Dineh (Navajo) Farmer in Palestine Roberto Nutlouis Censored News "They built a wall to try to keep terrorists out And it becomes symbolic what terrorism’s about" (h. Salam) Spent the day taking with various communities impacted by the apartheid wall. They explained it as 'Ethnic Cleansing' by making their lives severely difficult
Science Signaling corrects data fudged by former UCSF student
A paper containing data fudged by former University of California San Francisco grad student Peter Littlefield has been corrected. We knew that this was coming — last month, the Office of Research Integrity issued a report that Littlefield had admitted to misconduct, and agreed to a retraction or correction of the two affected papers. Published in Science Signaling, […] The post Science Signaling corrects data fudged by former UCSF student appeared first on Retraction Watch.
BOLIVIA OCT 2015: World People's Conference on Climate Change and Defenders of Life
. Conference website Spanish, English, French http://www.jallalla.bo/
The Economy: "Viva ZIRP!"
*"Viva ZIRP!"* by Bill Bonner GUALFIN, Argentina – "Well, it’s ZIRP now. ZIRP forever. Viva ZIRP! Viva! Viva! As we suspected, Janet Yellen did not want to risk raising the federal funds rate. Bloomberg reports: "Federal Reserve officials left interest rates unchanged, opting to delay an increase amid stubbornly low inflation, an uncertain outlook for global growth and recent financial-market turmoil. In holding their benchmark federal funds rate at zero to 0.25%, policy makers showed they are still not convinced inflation will move gradually back to their 2% target, despite contin... more »
Unsettling Hue
I've noticed an unsettling hue arising from Fukushima Daiichi recently. I am not sure if its coming from unit 2 or unit 1: I don't know whether the red and yellow hues that seem to be coming up from the building are simply camera distortion. Alternatively, perhaps the incoming rain is creating an effect when hitting melted fuel in spent fuel pools. Unit 1 currently has much of its roof removed: I previously posted that sometimes a yellow-glow can be seem emanating from unit 1 where the roof was removed: http://majiasblog.blogspot.com/2015/09/fukushima-unit-1s-tainted-golden-... more »
Securitization Forum: Are they just not that into it?
This is the third contribution in our forum on securitization theory in the U.S. Amir Lupovici is a lecturer in the Department of Political Science at Tel Aviv University. His book The Power of Deterrence is forthcoming in Cambridge University Press. His previous publications appeared in International Studies Quarterly, Review of International Studies, International Studies […]
Securitization Forum: The Transatlantic Divide: Why Securitization Has Not Secured a Place in American IR, Why It Should, and How It Can
This is the second contribution in our forum on securitization theory in the U.S. Stacie E. Goddard is the Jane Bishop ’51 Associate Professor of Political Science at Wellesley College. Her book, Indivisible Territory and the Politics of Legitimacy: Jerusalem and Northern Ireland, was published by Cambridge University Press in 2010. Ronald R. Krebs is […]
Russian Human Rights Council: Russian Soldiers Fear Going To Syria
A Russian mortar team: It is not clear how many are going to Syria *BBC: **Russian troops 'fear secret Syria mission'* A top Russian human rights body says it has been contacted by Russian soldiers who fear being sent to fight in Syria. The presidential Human Rights Council told BBC Russian that it was seeking an explanation from the Russian military. Officers reportedly told some soldiers that they would be sent to fight "in a hot country". Russia has sent military hardware to Syrian government forces. Separately, a top Russian security official said nearly 2,400 Russians had jo... more »
Russia Presidential Spokesman Hints That Russia Will Consider Sending Combat Troops To Syria (If Asked)
Russian President Vladimir Putin (R), Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov (L) and Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Muallem (back to camera) attend a meeting at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, June 29, 2015.Reuters/Alexei Nikolsky/RIA Novosti/Kremlin *TASS:* *Russia ready to consider Syria’s request to send troops if Damascus asks for it — Kremlin* According to the Syrian foreign minister, Damascus will not hesitate to ask for support from Russia. SOCHI, September 18. /TASS/. Russia will consider Syria’s request to send troops if Damascus asks for it, but it is hard to talk about hypoth... more »
House Votes to Block Planned Parenthood Funds for a Year
[image: The United States Capitol building with the dome lit up at night.] WASHINGTON (AP) -- A divided House voted Friday to block Planned Parenthood’s federal funds for a year, as Republican leaders labored to keep GOP outrage over abortion from spiraling into an impasse with President Barack Obama that could shut down... more »
Annual NYC Muslim Day Parade Attended by Almost Nobody
[image: Muslim parade - 400] What if there was a parade and nobody showed up besides the marchers? It seems none of the displays from previous Muslim Day Parades in New York City -- the "black flags of jihad"; floats with girls riding in a cage in the back... Continue reading *“Annual NYC Muslim Day Parade Attended by Almost Nobody”* at *theblaze.com*.
Guess Which ABC Show Will Feature Full Frontal Nudity?
[image: NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 14: Muppet Kermit the Frog and his operator Steve Whitmire take questions from the audience at Barnes & Noble Lincoln Triangle on November 14, 2003,in New York City.] The other day I hopped off the R Train underneath the Fox News Corner of the World and came face to face with a poster promoting ABC's new interpretation of The Muppets. There, in all his glory, was Kermit the Frog --... Continue reading *“Guess Which ABC Show Will Feature Full Frontal Nudity?”* at *foxnews.com*.
Iraqi Christian Advocates to Greet Pope Francis with Prayer Vigil
[image: IRAQ-CONFLICT-CHRISTIANITY] The Iraqi Christian Relief Council will be welcoming the visit of Pope Francis to the United States with a candlelight vigil for the victims of genocide and religious persecution -- especially Christians in the Middle East. It purpose will be to ask Pope... more »
Glenn Beck is Right about Donald Trump’s Supporters
[image: Donald Trump - 400] Let me draw an analogy that will be familiar to people who are even casual fans of hockey. Every hockey team at pretty much every level of play has a guy who is commonly referred to as an "enforcer." I... Continue reading *“Glenn Beck is Right about Donald Trump’s Supporters”* at *redstate.com*.
Medical Care in Kansas and Why It Won't Be Fixed
* Coffeyville, Kansas, where nearly one in five people lives in poverty (source)* *by Gaius Publius* I want to present this story as a story first, before I let the writer make an analytical point and I make one of my own. This is from a much longer, excellent piece in *The Nation* called "Life and Death in Brownback's Kansas" by Kai Wright. No, this story doesn't end in death, but the steps its subject takes along the way, the drops she experiences from one level down to the next, are so predictable as to be obvious. They are also terribly common. *Charmaine's Story* This is ... more »
Lingerie show - Rule 5 Friday post - NSFW
Here is a full catwalk preview of the alluring and sensuous runway of Pretty Wild Lingerie as it unveils its AW 2015 collection during Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week in Amsterdam. Never miss out the black and white lace corsets in one piece monokinis and two-piece lingeries, complimented with vintage high waist and sensual suspender stockings. Also, fall in love with the teasing sheered lingerie robe in deep violet and feathered black cover-ups, including the black lurex mesh, long-sleeved shift dress.
Assisted Suicide and Real Death with Dignity
[image: Assisted Suicide and Real Death with Dignity] If you are wondering what the next social debate in the United States will be, NPR host Diane Rehm spelled it out recently in a public campaign: assisted suicide. Those like Rehm who believe terminally ill patients should be to... Continue reading *“Assisted Suicide and Real Death with Dignity”* at *christianitytoday.com*.
U.S. Begins Military - To - Military Talks With Russia Over Syria
Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu (L) and U.S. Secretary of Defence Ashton Carter. © RIA Novosti / Reuters *Washington Post:* *Senior U.S., Russian defense officials talk to defuse tensions over Syria* LONDON — Defense chiefs from the United States and Russia held their first direct talks in more than a year Friday, discussing the multiple conflicts in Syria and ways to battle the Islamic State as part of possible wider contacts aimed at easing tensions. The talks between Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter and Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoygu, announced by the Pentagon,... more »
Taliban Storm Pakistan Air Base, 42 Killed
*Al Jazeera:* *Pakistani Taliban storms airbase near Peshawar* At least 21 security officers among 43 dead in firefight after attack by fighters on military barracks and mosque. Fighters belonging to the Pakistani Taliban have stormed an air force station near Peshawar in Pakistan's northwest, resulting in a firefight with security forces and the deaths of at least 43 people, sources say. ISPR, the Pakistan military's media wing, said at least 21 security officers and five civilians working at the Badaber Air Force base died and 14 fighters were killed in Friday morning's gun batt... more »
Burkina Faso Coup News Updates -- September 18, 2015
*Reuters:* *Soldiers crush protests as military seizes power in Burkina Faso* Heavily armed troops crushed protests in Burkina Faso's capital Ouagadougou after a former spy chief seized power in a military coup on Thursday, derailing a democratic transition that had inspired many in Africa. At least three people were killed and more than 60 injured, according to hospital sources, when members of the presidential guard fired warning shots to disperse crowds and used batons to beat back stone-throwing demonstrators. The coup leaders' authority did not appear to extend beyond the ca... more »
KIPP Study Shows Declining Test Performance and No Improvements in "Character"
by Jim Horn The final piece of Mathematica’s $4 million KIPP study was just published. It was designed principally to try to gauge the effect of KIPP's continuing expansion on student achievement at elementary, middle, and high school levels. One of the prominent findings demonstrates that KIPP’s heyday came about 10 years ago, and KIPP’s continued expansion in the number of schools in recent years (thanks largely to a $50 million handout from USDOE) correlates closely to a decidedly downward trend in KIPP's ability to raise test scores. The chart below is from p. 31 of Mathemat... more »
A phony and a failure
After watching part of the clown show the other night it's a safe bet none of these guys or girl is capable of running anything. It looked more like a side show than a debate. Trump the bloviating usually master of ceremonies toned down his usual bombastic style yet had no answers as to exactly how he'd pull off one of the largest construction projects in U.S. history all the while making Mexico pay for it. The rest of the pack took turns spewing the usual right wing line complete with lies and falsehoods. The "Donald" was seen at an event just the day before aboard the U.S.S. ... more »
A Veteran’s Emotional Reunion with ‘Katrina Girl’ He Saved
[image: Katrina Girl-400] Master Sergeant Mike Maroney has kept a certain picture on his wall over the past 10 years - that of himself and a little girl he delivered to safety during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. As the poignant photo of the twosome... Continue reading *“A Veteran’s Emotional Reunion with ‘Katrina Girl’ He Saved”* at *people.com*.
Giants, Cowboys, Markets and Government Planning
[image: Giants Cowboy Government - 900] “Is the Giants’ decision not to run already the season’s worst call?”, ran the headline on The Guardian‘s homepage, speaking of the Sunday Night Game of the Week. The Giants had the ball on the one yard line on third down... more »
Income Inequality Hasn’t Made Americans Support Redistribution
[image: Income Inequality Hasn’t Made Americans Support Redistribution] With America's top earners enjoying bigger and bigger gains each year relative to the rest of the population, most voters would probably see their post-tax-and-transfer income go up (at least in the short term) if the United States implemented a European-style welfare state. So... Continue reading *“Income Inequality Hasn’t Made Americans Support Redistribution”* at *the-american-interest.com*.
The Bishop’s Candlesticks: Immigration, Refugees, and Justice
[image: The Bishop’s Candlesticks: Immigration, Refugees, and Justice] The media is buzzing with chatter about immigration and the heartbreaking refugee crisis in the Middle East. Yet even as we learn more about the types of suffering and oppression that these people are fleeing, the temptation to look inward remains.... Continue reading *“The Bishop’s Candlesticks: Immigration, Refugees, and Justice”* at *blog.acton.org*.
Dante Watches Planned Parenthood Video #10
[image: Dante in wood] Carolyn Westhoff, senior medical adviser for Planned Parenthood Federation of America, gave us an unwelcome glimpse of America’s seamy underside when she told an undercover reporter from the Center for Medical Progress that her baby-parts customers "want particular tissues. They... more »
More Than a Conspiracy, More Than Climate Science
The Notrickszone site has a post on universities suppressing non-consensus climate views. One commenter derided the post as a "conspiracy" view, while another, on the other side of the climate debate, looked back to the 1950s, when, he wrote, continental drift was suppressed. My response to both sides: *Continental drift was not suppressed, just strongly argued against, because geophysicists (not geologists, but physicists) could find no reasonable physical cause for it. And no one has ever actually found the internal magma currents supposedly driving continental drift, nor have they... more »
World News Briefs -- September 18, 2015
*VOA*: *Migrant Crisis: Croatia Seals Border With Serbia* Croatia's prime minister said his country cannot and will not close its borders to migrants who've been streaming into Europe, but instead will redirect them to Hungary. Zoran Milanovic said Friday that Croatia will no longer register the thousands of migrants entering the country, after more than 11,000 crossed into Croatia this week. Croatia sealed seven of its eight border crossings with Serbia late Thursday after migrants surged into the country and Hungary turned them away. *MIDDLE EAST* Senior U.S., Russian defense... more »
EXPERTS, PROFESSORS AND JOURNOS: Fixed, fake, phony, fraudulent—faux!
*FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18, 2015Part 5—Today we have posting of scores:* We have an unusual exercise planned. Today we have posting of scores! When it comes to the public schools, such postings are rarely done. Instead, we get standard emissions from journalists like the Washington Post’s Nick Anderson, with the help of “educational experts.” Their emissions peddle the fixed, gloomy themes the billionaire funders most love. But today, we’ll have posting of scores, with relevance to high school seniors. Are American high school seniors doing less well in math? For ourselves, we have n... more »
THE RISE AND FALL AND RISE OF RMG
Prior to the 2011 federal election fraud/robocalls scandal, few Canadians had ever heard of CIMS, the Conservative Party of Canada’s national permanent voter-tracking database, or its close relationship to Responsive Marketing Group or RMG, the Conservatives' main GOTV phone bank and fundraising company used in that election by the CPC national campaign and 97 individual Conservative candidates. Canadians did not know that the Conservative Party paid RMG $1.4million and provided them with a CIMS voters list and a script for its call centre employees to read to voters. That script,... more »
Praise for Caesar, then a dagger in his back
There could hardly be a greater contrast between Matthew Price's defensive reflections on the migrant crisis, stressing the human interest angle to the story, and those of *Newsnight*'s Mark Urban (in his latest blog post, Five new reflections on Europe's migrant crisis), which take a much more measured and analytical approach. Mark Urban is a fine journalist. I've long been an admirer of his. (Ah, *Time Commanders*!) Plus, he doesn't always sounds as if he's in tune with 'received BBC opinion' either (which helps). I remember a recent edition of *Today *where the BBC's Central ... more »
Military And Intelligence News Briefs -- September 18, 2015
*New York Times:* *U.S. to Begin Military Talks With Russia on Syria* LONDON — Secretary of State John Kerry said on Friday that the United States was prepared to engage in military-to-military talks with Russia concerning Syria. “The president believes that a military-to-military conversation is an important next step,” Mr. Kerry said, “and I think, hopefully, it will take place very shortly.” The initial purpose of the talks with Russia, Mr. Kerry said, will be to help “define some of the different options that are available to us as we consider next steps in Syria.” *Military... more »
ASU prof placed on administrative leave following plagiarism charges
A faculty member at Arizona State University has been placed on leave while the university investigates charges against him. According to a spokesperson for ASU, Matthew Whitaker has been placed on administrative leave and relieved of all duties. The University will follow Arizona Board of Regents policy as it reviews allegations that his conduct has fallen short of […] The post ASU prof placed on administrative leave following plagiarism charges appeared first on Retraction Watch.
The Trouble with Kids Today
[image: Maryland Governor Calls For Day Of Prayer After Weeklong Unrest In Baltimore] A review of "Our Kids: The American Dream in Crisis," by Robert D. Putnam. Policy analysts who write about America's new lower class hardly ever know what they're talking about--not at first hand. The typical social scientist in a major university,... Continue reading *“The Trouble with Kids Today”* at *thefederalist.com*.
Politics, the Pope and the Public Square
[image: Pope Francis at Vargihna - 400] If the attention he’s received over the summer is any indication, then Pope Francis’ upcoming visit to the United States is likely to receive a great deal of media scrutiny. Just picture the scene as the supreme pontiff of the... Continue reading *“Politics, the Pope and the Public Square”* at *thinkchristian.reframemedia.com*.
My Response to Rolling Stone‘s Attacks
[image: rolling stone] On Sept. 10, Rolling Stone magazine published a long article titled"Pope Francis' American Crusade -- The pope takes on climate change, poverty and conservative U.S. clerics." From the title alone you could tell where this was headed. Predictably, the magazine... Continue reading *“My Response to Rolling Stone‘s Attacks”* at *blog.acton.org*.
Did Matt Damon Greenlight Racism?
[image: matt damon] I don't personally know Matt Damon. Neither does Yesha Callahan. And I also don't know Ms. Callahan. Or Effie Brown. Or any of the potential directors vying for a shot at a career in Hollywood through the competition depicted on... Continue reading *“Did Matt Damon Greenlight Racism?”* at *acculturated.com* .
Satire: “Walker Bummed He Was Unable to Show He Memorized Three Branches of Government”
*“Walker Bummed He Was Unable to Show He * *Memorized Three Branches of Government”* by Andy Borowitz DES MOINES (The Borowitz Report)— "Assessing his performance in the aftermath of the second Republican Presidential debate, Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker said he was “saddened” that he never got a chance to show that he had memorized the three branches of the federal government. “If you do all of that homework and nobody even knows that you did it, what’s the whole point of doing it in the first place?” Walker, who was campaigning in Iowa, said. “I’d be lying if I said it didn’t s... more »
Assad Interview- ISIS/Western Propaganda/Kurds and John Kerry- Egad!
*RT* * In a rare interview with Russian media, including RT, Syrian President Bashar Assad opened up about terrorism, the refugee crisis, and Western propaganda. He went back in history, saying the US invasion of Iraq had set the scene for Syria's unrest.* *On the cause of the Syrian civil war:* *Assad: “It was the Iraq war in 2003, when the United States invaded Iraq. We were strongly opposed to that invasion, because we knew that things were moving in the direction of dividing societies and creating unrest. And we are Iraq’s neighbors. At that time, we saw that the war would t... more »
Alcohol, Cigarettes & Flamethrowers OK, but Having This Candy is a Felony Offense
*Marco Torres* - This is perfect snapshot of government regulatory insanity. The post Alcohol, Cigarettes & Flamethrowers OK, but Having This Candy is a Felony Offense appeared first on Waking Times.
Levin: 5 Takeaways from 2nd GOP Debate
[image: debate - 400] CNN’s format was awful. The entire effort was intended to instigate fights between and among the candidates. They wanted a brawl. The early part of the debate was the worst -- right out of the box, piling on Donald Trump.... Continue reading *“Levin: 5 Takeaways from 2nd GOP Debate”* at *conservativereview.com*.
Hillary Clinton Staffer in Hiding as Authorities Probe Campaign Work
[image: Gupana - 400] The Nevada immigration attorney and Hillary Clinton campaign fellow has gone into hiding since she was captured in a James O'Keefe video apparently conspiring to violate election laws. Gupana told who she thought were Hillary Clinton campaign staffers and volunteers... Continue reading *“Hillary Clinton Staffer in Hiding as Authorities Probe Campaign Work”* at *breitbart.com*.
Vatican Disputes White House Guest List for Papal Visit
[image: Retired bishop - 400] On the eve of Pope Francis's arrival in the U.S., the Vatican has taken offense at the Obama administration's decision to invite to the pope's welcome ceremony transgender activists, the first openly gay Episcopal bishop and an activist nun who... Continue reading *“Vatican Disputes White House Guest List for Papal Visit”* at *google.com*.
Syrian Refugees Are a Special Case and Christian Syrians Most of All
[image: Syrian refugees2 - 900] You would have to be utterly heartless not to feel pity for the thousands of people pouring out of the conflict in Syria each week. It is the saddest part of the current mass migration of people into Europe which... more »
Stanley Hoffmann’s approach to studying politics: in memoriam 1928-2015 .
[Note: This is a guest post by Peter Gourevitch, Founding Dean and Distinguished Professor Emeritus at the School of Global Policy and Strategy at the University of California San Diego. He is currently Visiting Professor at the Watson Institute, Brown University.] Stanley Hoffmann influenced the study of international relations greatly. From the 1960s on, generations […]
A List Of The Last 115 Detainees Who Are Still At Guantánamo.
(Reuters: Joe Skipper ) *Miami Herald:* *Who’s still held at Guantánamo* *Here is a list of 115 detainees currently held at Guantánamo.* McClatchy Newspapers and the Miami Herald consulted court and other public records as well as sources in tandem with secret U.S. military intelligence summaries provided by WikiLeaks to determine who was still being held there. Clicking on the name will take you to a U.S. intelligence profile provided to McClatchy Newspapers by Wikileaks, an assessment of each captive drawn up by the prison that their attorneys generally dispute. In many cases, th... more »
Papani: Zionist False Flag v2 coming to Chicago.
Papani: Zionist False Flag v2 coming to Chicago.: The next wave of the false flag done on the world stage will be a nuclear event most likely in the Windy City - Chicago, IL. Please be pa... more »
School Board Member Lays Out Cost of Charter Expansion
Recently the school board of Metro Nashville rejected three new charter applications. Will Pinkston was one of those thoughtful and responsible school board members who voted with his constituents' interests in mind, rather than with the segregating ideologies of corporate education reform schoolers. Here is Pinkston's recent op-ed in the Tennessean, which lays out his rationale for supporting public school children over corporate interests: Recently, outgoing Mayor Karl Dean penned an op-ed in the Tennessean applauding the successes of a student and a charter school, KIPP Nashvill... more »
Pope Francis Faces A Challenge in Opening Cuba to the Catholic Church
[image: 18CUBACHURCH-WEB-1-master675__1442580555_70.119.142.63] VATICAN CITY -- In brokering the historic thaw between Cuba and the United States, Pope Francis stepped squarely into the thorny realm of geopolitics, sending letters to the presidents of both nations, playing host to secret meetings in the halls... Continue reading *“Pope Francis Faces A Challenge in Opening Cuba to the Catholic Church”* at *nytimes.com*.
‘Obama is a Muslim’-Themed Question at Trump Rally Starts Media Frenzy
[image: Donald Trump Rally Dallas - 900] ROCHESTER, N.H. (AP) -- Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump declined to correct a questioner at a town hall event who incorrectly stated that President Barack Obama is Muslim, and the billionaire real estate mogul said he’d be “looking at” a... more »
Oregon Judge Who Won’t Officiate Gay Weddings Fights to Keep His Job
[image: 1judge-and-gavel] An Oregon judge is fighting an investigative panel's accusation that by declining to perform same-sex weddings on religious grounds, he violated both the state's constitution and code of conduct for judges. This and other allegations could result in the judge's... more »
Go ‘Nuclear’ to Stop Obama’s Iran Deal, Urge 57 House Republicans in Letter
[image: mcconnellmitch_091615gn2__1442582444_70.119.142.63] Dozens of House Republican lawmakers are making a late stab at pressuring Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) to abandon the filibuster on legislation to block the nuclear deal with Iran. A total of 57 House lawmakers signed on to... Continue reading *“Go ‘Nuclear’ to Stop Obama’s Iran Deal, Urge 57 House Republicans in Letter”* at *thehill.com*.
Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl’s Attorneys to Present Case at Hearing
[image: Bowe Bergdahl attorney] SAN ANTONIO (AP) -- Bowe Bergdahl’s attorneys will present evidence Friday during the second day of a hearing to determine whether the Army sergeant should face a military trial for leaving his post in Afghanistan, although they aren’t saying if... more »
Croatia Seeks to Redirect Migrants toward Hungary, Slovenia
[image: Mirgrant Crisis Croatia_900] TOVARNIK, Croatia (AP) -- Croatian Prime Minister Zoran Milanovic said Friday his nation is overwhelmed by a huge influx of migrants and will redirect people toward Hungary and Slovenia as they move north in hopes of reaching more prosperous European... more »
CNN’s GOP Debate: A Lighter Look
[image: Donald Trump - 900 000] Wow, did that debate run long, though at three hours it only felt longer than the Oscars. Like the Oscars, there was drama, there was melodrama, there was a moment or two we regretted Edison ever harnessed electricity. We didn’t get... more »
Accents and other challenges
The KMT News Organ has a translation and background on KMT Presidential Candidate Hung Hsiu-chu's words, which created a stir: KMT Presidential candidate Hung Hsiu-chu (洪秀柱) delivered a campaign speech yesterday at the Hsin-chu Allied Association for Science Park Industries (新竹科學園區同業公會). After her speech, *Pan Wen-huei (潘文輝), general manager of Gintech Energy Corporation (昱晶能源)*, remarked that according to a Key Performance Indicator (KPI) assessment of the Legislative Yuan's (LY) performance, the LY should be regarded as a failure. Pan asked, "Since you come from the LY, can you e... more »
Empathy
Complaints about the objectivity of BBC reporters seem to be getting through to them - if *Today* chief correspondent Matthew Price's latest online piece is anything to go by. It contains the following passage: I think that some of the questioning of BBC reporters concerns (a) their overwhelming focus on *un*represenative migrants/refugees - i.e women and children - and (b) their apparently *completely trusting/unquestioning *attitudes to any migrant/refugee whose story they broadcast. The first of those criticisms is something else Matthew Price appears to have picked up on. He ... more »
Afters
Here (h/t Guest Who) comes the BBC's official response to complaints it received about James O'Brien's overbearing behaviour towards Tory MP Daniel Kawczynski on *Newsnight *last week (as reviewed here): That's all very well from James O'Brien, admitting that he didn't get it quite right, and it's true that the BBC got complaints and plaudits for the interview (as we said at the time)... ...but that's only half the story and this *Newsnight *reply seems disingenuous. My impression on watching it (very much confirmed by re-watching it) *wasn't *that James O'Brien was spontaneous... more »
“Filthy Jews Feet” and other fears
Yesterday I mentioned Lyse Doucet’s approach to her work as the BBC’s chief foreign correspondent. When working abroad she aspires to get to know the people who live in that country, so that she can properly present their views; for interest’s sake she tries to find something new or unexpected to focus on. There’s nothing wrong with this noble and admirable aspiration, if only it were more evenly spread. The BBC’s obsessional focus on Gaza and the Palestinian cause has been queried by many people. Those whose political sympathies lie wholly with the Palestinians will argue that thi... more »
stephen harper Hid in a Closet
Lest we forget ... You can't pretend to be a fearless leader who is the only one who can protect his people, and whose bravery justifies your dressing up in actual military gear, when you're a pants-pissing coward who flees to a closet leaving your followers to their fate. So there was some sort of debate on the economy last night. I was out drinking so I didn't see it. Probably for the best. Various pundits have credited the win to all three of the men involved. Some call it for Mulcair. Others for Trudeau. Others for harper. If Elizabeth May had been allowed to participate, some m... more »
Accepting The Concept That There Are Limits To American Power?
Republican candidates at the debate in Simi Valley, California, United States, September 16, 2015. REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson *Eli Lake, Bloomberg:* *Republicans and the Limits to American Power* On the stage at the Reagan library Wednesday night, even the most hawkish candidates chirped only modest ambitions. The Republican Party is no longer the party of regime change, no longer the party of wars of liberation. The front-runner's vision for American power, in fact, was right out of Barack Obama's 2008 campaign. Back then, Obama distinguished himself from Hillary Clinton and the Repub... more »
Top official at Indian university plagiarized most of paper
A top official and law researcher at a university in India is facing dismissal after being charged with plagiarizing approximately three-quarters of one of her papers, among other allegations. Chandra Krishnamurthy, the Vice Chancellor at Pondicherry University, has been “placed under ‘compulsory wait’ by the Union human resource ministry following several charges against her,” according to […] The post Top official at Indian university plagiarized most of paper appeared first on Retraction Watch.
Jeb And Trumpy Debated The Efficacy Of Political Bribery-- Though Not The Morality Or Criminality
Although I loved the Rand Paul/Trumpy junior high exchange and Rand Paul's line that "there will always be a Bush or a Clinton for you if you want to go back to Iraq," probably the most memorable bits from CNN's long, mostly boring debate Wednesday night were when Jeb defended the honor of his brother's failed presidency by making the absurd statement that "he kept us safe," forgetting, apparently, the worst disaster to have happened on American soil in over a century; Carly Fiorina's endless cascade of deceitful bromides; and climate-change denier Marco Rubio's opening joke about... more »
Can Corruption In Ukraine Be Defeated?
*Ilya Lozovsky, Foreign Policy:* *The Spirit of Lviv* How Ukraine’s most European city forged a popular movement against corruption and bad governance. Ukraine’s 2014 Euromaidan revolution produced many memorable images, but some of the most striking came out of Mezhyhirya, the opulent country estate of deposed President Viktor Yanukovych. When activists stormed the grounds, they found luxury on a scale that was almost beyond parody: a vast collection of classic cars, fake ancient ruins, a restaurant shaped like a pirate ship. Most infamously, a two-kilogram loaf of bread made of s... more »
If You Squeeze It, You Get Lemon Juice: The F35 Lightning II POS Aircraft - US Airforce Admits F35 "Fighter" Can NOT Fight!
One of my pet peeves over the last while has definitely been the outrageously overpriced and absolutely horrific new "fighter" aircraft that Lougheed Martin in the United States has been developing to replace ALL fighter aircraft in the entire US air fleet... That sorry excuse for an aircraft is of course the F35 Lightning II that is absolutely turning out to be a flying "lemon"...... It is especially outrageous that this new "fighter" program has cost the American taxpayers some 1/4 TRILLION dollars already to develop with the final cost including production to be well over a trill... more »
‘Everything Is Just Going Crazy’: Washington Gears Up for Pope Francis’ Visit
[image: Pope Francis large__900X600] According to Joshua Gonnerman, a doctoral student in historical theology at the Catholic University of America, it's been anything but business as usual on campus for the past few weeks. "I honestly wouldn't describe it as much as a buzz...more »
If Syria Asks Us to Send Troops, We’ll Consider It, Russia Says
[image: Listen to Russia’s Embarrassing Attempt to Frame the U.S. For a Terrorist Attack] MOSCOW (AP) -- Russia would consider sending troops to fight in Syria if Damascus asked for them, a spokesman for President Vladimir Putin said Friday. Dmitry Peskov spoke in response to comments by Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem, who denied... more »
There Is Only One Way to End Federal Funding of Planned Parenthood. Here’s Why.
[image: Senate GOP Republicans_900] Why, oh why, is it so hard for Republicans to do the right thing and put up a good fight to end taxpayer funding of Planned Parenthood? On this issue, and others before it, it seems the GOP leadership has... more »
Radical Islam Watch: Boko Haram Violence Has Displaced 1.4 Million Children, U.N. Reports
[image: gettyimages-474796612__1442577678_70.119.142.63] "It's truly alarming to see that children and women continue to be killed, abducted and used to carry bombs" Half a million children have fled attacks from the Islamic militant group Boko Haram over the past five months, UNICEF said... Continue reading *“Radical Islam Watch: Boko Haram Violence Has Displaced 1.4 Million Children, U.N. Reports”* at *time.com*.
Out Of The Closet
http://www.scaryforkids.com/ At several junctures in last night's debate, Justin Trudeau interrupted Stephen Harper with a simple declarative sentence: "That's not true." Mr. Harper's government has distinguished itself with its in-your-face dishonesty. But, Michael Harris writes, it is even more noteworthy for its in-your-face corruption: Cheating, lying and misleading the House of Commons, elevating the ethically dubious to high office — these are not good character references for any party leader. For Harper — who leads a party th... more »
Chicken and Rice Casserole
When I think of comfort food. I think of Chicken and Rice. It was one of my mom's go to meals and so I can't help but get a little nostalgic when I taste it. My kids and husband love it so I have been able to have fun with it in the next generation. It is a very easy meal, with very little prep so it is perfect for a busy night. You will need: - 1 can cream of chicken soup or substitute - 2 cans of water - 2 cans minute rice - 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast - 1/2 c. frozen peas - 1 Tablespoon dried onion - 1/2 stick of butter, melted - 1 teaspoon of sa... more »
Eastern European countries quickly understand the reality
There are indications that the migration wave is slowing down thanks to the restoration of borders inside Europe, especially those around Hungary. However, there are still lots of events whose intensity seems to be exponentially growing. The relationships between nations and groups of people are quickly deteriorating. And even some of the predicted flows seem scary: the Hungarian minister of foreign affairs and trade warns that up to 35 million people are heading to Europe. Hungary has built a fence on the Serbian border. Note that most of the migrants go from Greece to Macedonia ... more »
The White House Invites LGBT Lobbying Group to Papal Ceremony during Pope’s U.S. Visit
[image: Pope Francis at Vargihna - 400] The White House will host a welcoming ceremony for Pope Francis next week, but it has invited several LGBT activist allies who are working to target Catholic beliefs and to influence the Synod on the Family. On Sept. 23, the... Continue reading *“The White House Invites LGBT Lobbying Group to Papal Ceremony during Pope’s U.S. Visit”* at *ewtnnews.com*.
Is Ray Davies of the Kinks a racist too?
"Millions of people swarming like flies 'round Waterloo underground " Obviously not, but then neither is David Cameron. The BBC are biased scum though.
Economic News , Data & Views ( September 18 , 2015 ) ....... Refugee Crisis Updates ( Europe's Refugee Crisis Continues To Reverberate - Croatia Hits The Wall Regarding Burden Sharing As To Refugees , Balkan States Still Very Resistant To Refugee Solutions Being Imposed - Germany Issues threat to over-rule opponents of mandatory quotas ) ....... Greece Updates ( Snap Election Coming to a Head - Debates are over , polls still neck and neck between Syriza and ND , Greece Economic Data of the day ) ....... Odds & Ends ( Al Qaeda Issues call for lone wolf attacks , Putin says he open to sending troops to consider sending troops Syria , post- Fed Day malaise in markets , additional items of note. )
Morning Tweets..... Europe.... *Q* @qpdp 2m 2 minutes ago Q retweeted Q Seat allocation likelihoods in the upcoming #Greek #elections, according to betting markets odds (note: 5% cutoff). Q added, *Q* @qpdp Πιθανότητες εδρών ανά κόμμα με βάση τις τιμές των στοιχηματικών αγορών 2 ημέρες πριν την κάλπη. #ekloges2015_round2 *Keep Talking Greece* @keeptalkingGR 1m 1 minute ago Greece’s elections: Public polls show no clear winner, yet coalition option are limited http://goo.gl/fb/imQxX4 *zerohedge* @zerohedge 2m 2 minutes ago Greece Heads Back To Th... more »
Fiorina’s Challenge: Channel Enthusiasm into Dollars, Votes
[image: Carly Fiorina CNN GOP debate_900] WASHINGTON (AP) -- Carly Fiorina’s first challenge in the Republican debate was simply getting a spot on the main stage. Now, after a standout performance, her next quest is to convert a burst of enthusiasm for her candidacy into actual... more »
This Ted Cruz Booster Is 13, Black, and Just Shredded Obama on Clock Kid
[image: CJ_Pearson_screengrab] Earlier this week, a 13-year-old kid named Coreco JaQuan Pearson sat down in front of a camera in the kitchen of his home in Grovetown, Ga. CJ had a lot on his mind: the 14-year-old Muslim student invited to the... Continue reading *“This Ted Cruz Booster Is 13, Black, and Just Shredded Obama on Clock Kid”* at *washingtonpost.com*.
Greg Hunter, “Weekly News Wrap-Up, 9/18/2015”
*“Weekly News Wrap-Up, 9/18/2015”* By Greg Hunter’s USAWatchdog.com “The Federal Reserve is not raising interest rates, but now there are hints by Fed Head Janet Yellen that it might consider negative interest rates if the economy gets bad enough. The economy is already bad, and the Fed decision to keep a key rate near 0% says it all. I have been telling you for a couple of years that there is no real recovery on Main Street. The only real recovery is on Wall Street. Data point after data point shows the economy is not good. This is why the Fed is not raising interest rates. I wond... more »
Looking Through the Peephole: Harpers Campaign
*A guest post by Pamela Mac Neil* The MSM and the opposition has given Harper another pass. What would it take for them to call him on his dictatorial, undemocratic behaviour? This behaviour is now being done in front of all Canadians. This behaviour also doesn't bother the CBC, as they give him full exposure at all of his rigged campaign stops. A PM who only lets Canadians who are from his base into his campaign stops is a tyrant. The exclusion of 2/3rds of Canadians from attending these campaign stops is nothing short of dictatorial. This is what autocrats do in dictatorships. Why ... more »
Friend of Alleged Church Shooter to Appear in Court
[image: Dylann Roof Charleston shooting] COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- A friend of the alleged Charleston church shooter was expected to make his first court appearance Friday, more than a month after authorities told him he was under federal investigation for lying to them and failing... more »
The CIA Invented Cough Syrup
Fotolia *io9*:* Why the CIA Invented Cough Syrup* Much of the cough syrup on the shelves today owes a little something to the US Navy and the CIA. One of its main effective ingredients was developed by a project funded by both agencies. Learn why. Dextromethorphan (DM), a major ingredient in many cough syrups, is not entirely uncontroversial. At high doses it can produce hallucinations and get people high. What it doesn’t do is get people pleasantly high. Forums dedicated to drug use include entries like, “Worst thing I’ve done,” and “Terrified of Dying.” That sounds like one of t... more »
Musical Interlude: Medwyn Goodall, "Invocation 2"
Medwyn Goodall, "Invocation 2" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ilsk2vkEWmA
The U.S. has destroyed a dozen countries in the past 20 years, setting the stage for the millions of survivers now looking for solace in an unprepared Europe. In the meantime Washington is still trying to overthrow the two remaining democractic countries in South America.
------------------------------ Washington wants “regime change” in Ecuador: “What is the CIA planning before Ecuador’s 2017 elections?” By Timothy Alexander Guzman Original Here Global Research, September 15, 2015 Silent Crow 14 September 2015 *The United States does not lack institutions that continue to conspire, and that’s why I am using this gathering to announce that we have decided to expel USAID from Bolivia” *Bolivian President Evo Morales Washington wants Ecuador’s President Rafael Correa removed f... more »
First Raytheon SeaRAM® missile fired from a US Navy Littoral Combat Ship
For the first time, the U.S. Navy successfully fired a tactical missile from a SeaRAM launcher on an Independence variant littoral combat ship. The missile was launched Aug. 14 during a live-fire exercise at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division sea range off the coast of California. U.S.S. Coronado (LCS 4) fired a Rolling Airframe Missile from a SeaRAM® anti-ship defense system, both produced by Raytheon Company. During the test, the SeaRAM detected, tracked and engaged an inbound threat target, and fired a RAM Block 1A that successfully intercepted the target. Read more
The CIA Has Declassified Some Fascinating Presidential Intelligence Briefings From The 1960s
*CNN:* *CIA declassifies trove of top-secret documents* Washington (CNN)In 1961, the CIA debuted a new type of confidential intelligence report for President John F. Kennedy, a daily morning briefing surveying the threats facing the country so top secret that it was kept even from his second-in-command. The CIA says it was directed that "under no circumstances" should it be delivered to Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson, likely due to political rivalries between the two. The detail is just one of many surrounding the key intelligence briefing the President receives each morning --... more »
China Reveals Air-to-Air Missile for Its Fifth-Generation Fighter Jet
[image: J-20 Powerful Dragon carrying PL-10 AAM]Rumors about China’s latest PL-10 short-range air-to-air missile have been circling for the last two years. Speaking during a Chinese television interview, the missile’s chief designer revealed that the missile is nearly complete, and offered new key details, APA reports quoting Sputnik. Designed by the Luoyang Electro-Optical Research Institute (LEOC), images of the fifth-generation PL-10 first surfaced in 2013. Carried onboard the J-20 fighter, the missiles have also been seen on the J-11, a copy of the Russian Su-27. Based purely o... more »
Royal Thai Army places additional order for STARStreak Air Defence Missile Systems
[image: STARStreak air defence missile system]Thales announced today at DSEI that it has signed a multi-million pound contract with DataGate in Thailand to supply the Royal Thai Army with the STARStreak air defence missile system. This contract follows on from Thailand’s initial purchase of STARStreak in 2012. The system comprises STARStreak missiles, the world’s fastest very short range air defence (VSHORAD) missile and Lightweight Multiple Launcher (LML). Read more
KAI will export T-50s to Thailand
[image: T-50 Golden Eagle]Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) said Thursday that it has signed a $110 million deal to export four T-50TH supersonic trainer jets to Thailand. Under the deal, the Korean company will deliver the trainer jets within 30 months. The signing ceremony took place at the JW Marriott Hotel in Seoul. Thailand has selected the KAI T-50TH over the Chinese-made L15 to replace aging trainer aircraft for its Air Force, according to sources. Read more
Why I Got Rid of My Cell Phone
The truth is that almost no one needs to be on call 24/7. So do not be. In the bad old days of Ma Bell i made my living communicating. That meant that i attended my office between set hours and made myself available. Everyone got used to that. Today it is even easier as the writer shows using the Google application. Everything lands in Google's Gmail including voice. You simply set a time to pay attention. Almost nothing is so urgent that a few hours pause will cause a problem. Better yet, you will learn time management and not allow anyone to demand unlimited use of you... more »
New Electronics to Turn Yak-130 Jet Into Deadly War Machine
[image: Yak 130 Mitten]An advanced radio-radar system and a new optical target-acquiring and navigation complex are in development for the Russian Yakovlev Yak-130 jet fighter/trainer, KRET Company reported on Thursday. The new equipment will allow the aircraft to attack targets beyond the operational area of enemy air-defense systems. "Despite the fact that the Yak-130 is a small aircraft, when updated it is expected to be successfully used in a number of combat missions which traditionally involve assault fighters and fourth-generation multirole jets," KRET CEO Vladimir Mikheev sa... more »
Venezuelan Air Force Fighter Jet Crashes near Colombian Border
[image: Su-30MK2 Venezuela Air Force]A Venezuelan air force jet has crashed after it was deployed to the northwestern region of the country to verify information that an aircraft had entered Venezuelan airspace, the ministry of defense reported Thursday. “At approximately 21:07 hours of Sept. 17, 2015, an airplane Sukhoi-30 of the air force has crashed with pilots Cap. Ronald Ramirez and Cap. Jackson Garcia on board,” the Minister of Defense Vladimir Padrino Lopez said in a statement. The military official said that the country's defense systems was activated after an illegal aircr... more »
Sept. 17: Another trivia day in the Irving press....
We'll go quickly through the Irving “news” of the day. The lead story on P.1 is a real, lead story. It's about a daycare which was closed abruptly, and done in such a secretive fashion by the government that we are left wondering what this is all about. Employees were fired; parents were in a quandary – and nobody seems to know what it's all about. Underlying it all is a hint that the provincial government was very slack, indeed, in dealing with the situation – whatever it is. We should be demanding a full explanation – and soon. Below it is another black eye for the provincial gove... more »
ALERT: Certified Organic Food Grown in U.S. Found Contaminated with Glyphosate Herbicide by Brian Shilhavy
Wheat, organic barley, oats, spelt, and einkorn ALERT: Certified Organic Food Grown in U.S. Found Contaminated with Glyphosate Herbicide by Brian Shilhavy Green Med Info, 17 September 2015 *Think you can avoid glyphosate by buying organic? Think again. A new investigation by Tropical Traditions reveals that many products in the organic grain market in the U.S. contain glyphosate residue at levels almost the same as conventional grains.* With over 80% of the U.S. food supply now reportedly contaminated with the *herbicide glyphosate*, many people are turning to USDA certified or... more »
The Preliminary Hearing For U.S. Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl Begins With Gripping Testimony From His Commanders
*Daily Beast: **Bowe Bergdahl’s Commanders Detail Their Frantic, Dangerous Search* Forget counterinsurgency—in the weeks after the sergeant’s disappearance, troops from his post risked their lives to scour the area and slept outdoors, commanders testified Thursday. In nearly three weeks of frantic searching for U.S. Army Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl, troops were forced to sleep outside after hiking through nearby mountains. They spooned to stay warm at night and even had to eat dirt, said Maj. Silvino S. Silvino, then the commander of Bergdahl’s Blackfoot Company. The 33 soldiers who were... more »
US spy plane makes several passes over Ireland
[image: E-3A Sentry]Questions have been raised as to why a US surveillance plane spent several hours over Ireland earlier this week. The plane, which made seven trips across the country on Tuesday, flew over Dublin, Shannon and Cork before returning to Dublin again in a triangular formation for five hours. The Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) confirmed the flight, saying that: "A US military aircraft, with a pre-filed flight plan, operated in Irish airspace on Tuesday with approval from the Department of Foreign Affairs." Read more
Kelvin Hughes SharpEye™ solid-state Doppler radar selected by world's navies
SharpEye™ solid state radars system of Kelvin Hughes, a world leading designer and supplier of navigation and security surveillance systems, was selected by 25 of the world’s navies and coast guards for 68 ships ranging in size and roles from fast patrol boats and OPVs to Corvette, Frigates and auxiliaries, the Company said in a press release. Most recently, the Republic of Singapore Navy’s new Littoral Mission Vessels (LMVs) have been equipped with SharpEye™ to complement a range of advanced sensor technologies. In addition, the Royal New Zealand Navy is employing SharpEye™ for t... more »
Navy secretary names new littoral combat ship the USS Wichita
[image: Lockheed Martin LCS]U.S. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus has announced the naming of the USS Wichita, a new littoral combat ship that's expected to be launched next year. A ship-naming ceremony for the vessel was held Wednesday morning at Wichita City Hall. During the meeting, Mabus said naming a ship after a city or state "is a reflection not just of heritage but also as an expression of gratitude" for their support. "I like to think that in naming a ship, it carries and projects some of the character of the name and place it is named after," he said. Read more
Video: U.K. Reveals New Type 26 Frigate Design
The Royal Navy revealed more information about the design and capabilities of its new Global Combat Ship Type 26 frigate at the Defence and Security Equipment International exhibition in London. The new design, which is much larger than the legacy Duke Type 23 class it replaces, would add significant anti-submarine warfare capabilities and features an “acoustically quiet design [that] prevents detection,” according to a video the Royal Navy released. It would also feature air defense systems and flexible open spaces to support a range of operations. Read more
Indonesia Orders 11 Eurocopter Panther Helicopters To Re-Kindle Anti-Submarine Unit
[image: Eurocopter AS565 Panther]Indonesia has ordered 11 Panther helicopters to re-enforce its anti-submarine unit. "The helicopters would be delivered gradually with four units to arrive by 2017," Navy spokesperson Rear Admiral M Zainuddin was quoted as saying by Xinhua news agency Wednesday. Squadron 100 was once regarded as one of the most powerful military units in the world in the 1960s.It was taken out of service in the late 1980s. Read more
Spearfish is more powerful
[image: Spearfish heavyweight torpedo]A prototype of the UK Royal Navy’s next-generation Spearfish heavyweight torpedo has successfully completed a first in-water trial at the BUTEC range on the west coast of Scotland. The trial is part of a five-year, £270 million Demonstration and Full Manufacture contract awarded in December 2014 that will see BAE Systems upgrade current Spearfish Mod 0 weapon stocks to the improved Mod 1 standard. Spearfish Mod 0 is in service on the Trafalgar, Vanguard and Astute class submarines. The Mod 1 upgrade will address the need for incremental improve... more »
U.S. nuclear missile submarine surfaces in Scotland in signal to Moscow
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[image: USS Wyoming (SSBN-742)]A nuclear-armed U.S. ballistic missile submarine arrived in Scotland this week amid growing tensions with Moscow over Ukraine and Russia’s strategic arms buildup. The submarine, the USS Wyoming, arrived at the British naval base at Faslane, Scotland, Wednesday morning for what the U.S. Strategic Command said is a routine visit. However, ballistic missile submarine movements and port visits normally are not announced by the Navy or the Strategic Command, an indication the Wyoming’s port call is intended as strategic messaging to Moscow. Read more
Iran ISOICO Shipyard Imagery Update
[image: Kharg (431) replenishment ship]The latest commercial satellite imagery shows some new developments at Iran’s ISOICO shipyard near Bostanu. In August, the Kharg (431) replenishment ship, which has been berthed at the shipyard since last November, was moved to the yard’s floating dry dock. Imagery suggests that the ship may be undergoing more extensive maintenance. Prior to the vessel’s arrival, it had been home ported at Bandar Abbas where monthly imagery suggests it has remained since late 2013 despite news stories to the contrary. The Kharg is operated by the Islamic Repu... more »
Migrant crisis: Croatia closes border crossings with Serbia per BBC News
This biased BBC report on http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34286432 includes some emoting from one of the BBC's chief emotion creators, Lyse Doucet. 'The crisis has challenged the Schengen agreement, with Germany, Austria and Slovakia all re-imposing checks on parts of their borders. EU regulations dictate the refugees must register and claim asylum in the first member state they reach. But many migrants and refugees wish to continue on to Germany and Austria, and do not wish to seek asylum in smaller, less well-off EU nations such as Hungary, Croatia and Slovenia.' The Sche...more »
Spending watchdog to probe Kids Company grant per BBC News
Strange how this BBC report http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-34281923 into the Kids Company has a picture of David Cameron at the top so as to blacken his name but no mention at all of the BBC's own Alan Yentob. It's almost as though the BBC was pathological in its anti Conservative bias.
Russian Northern Fleet Nuclear Subs Fire Cruise Missiles in Barents Sea
[image: Project 949A (Antey) Oscar II class SSN]Russian nuclear submarines from the Northern Fleet on Thursday fired cruise missiles as part of drills in the Barents Sea, the Russian Defense Ministry’s Northern Fleet press service head said Thursday. "During military exercises today from various forces from the Northern Fleet, Antei-class nuclear submarines fired cruise missiles from a submersed position at targets in the Barents Sea," Capt. 1st Rank Vadim Serga told journalists. He added that the warships participating in the drills had also carried out successful strikes, with al... more »
U.S. Navy Awards General Dynamics $322 Million for Nuclear-Submarine Support Work
[image: Seawolf class SSN]The U.S. Navy has awarded a $321.7 million contract option to General Dynamics Electric Boat to provide planning yard work, engineering and technical support for nuclear submarines. Electric Boat is a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics. Under this option, Electric Boat will provide design, engineering, material and logistics support, and research and development activities for active U.S. submarines and submersibles. Electric Boat also will provide information services, planning, scheduling and technical support for submarine maintenance and modern... more »
Military Photo of the Day: September 18, 2015
[image: Helicopter in Desert-900] U.S. Army soldiers conduct a sling load operation at Camp Buehring in Kuwait on Sept. 9, 2015. Wow! Thanks to 1st Lt. Benjamin Moreau for taking this amazing photograph.
How Is What’s Wrong With US Power Today
General Fan Changlong pictured with Ash Carter during his visit to Washington.Relations between the US and China are strained amid disputes over the South China Sea and alleged cyber attacks by Chinese hackers. Photo: Reuters *Jerry Hendrix and Bryan McGrath, Defense One*: *How This US Navy Admiral Gives In to China Is Exactly What’s Wrong With US Power Today* Authoritarian regimes are taking advantage of US passivity to gain territory, a phenomenon many thought extinct. he world desires and needs American leadership to confront the expansion of authoritarian regimes that seek to... more »
Did Refugees Fleeing Mexico Spark South East Colonization?
There are two critical eras that need to be understood. The first was the Atlantean Era which saw Old world colonization and heavy trade based on copper. The local tribes most certainly became trade partners but not natural participant in conquest or colonization. That would have been bad for business. The second Era was a thousand years later until contact. The emergent successor civilizations were pushing outward to create empires but little mutual trade. Sea traffic had not recovered although it had not gone away either. It makes perfect sense for pressured tribes on ... more »
The Dawn of Aquarius: A New People, A New Consciousness, A New Era
We are certainly entering a new age. in fact we are already there and the rest is about tidying up loose ends. My issue is that it has zero to do with Astrology and everything to do with artificial human connectedness through the internet which has become essentially universal. It is also introducing spiritualist truths and methods to the broadest possible audience as well. This can only be good. Otherwise, religion and general theology has yet to fully integrate all this into their own teachings although i see it as inevitable because of my recent understanding regarding the ... more »
The Foolproof Trick to Stop A Cut Avocado Turning Brown
*[image: image]* And yes, i would have tried all the rest before i picked onion. This is a very good tip and as counter intuitive as not putting those yams and sweert potatoes in your fridge. This is good news for those of us who love avocado and it has the benefit of also storing prepared onion as well. I wonder what else behaves well. since you now have a container with a layer of onion it may be time to experiment. Try a cut apple. Who knows? We are all been exposed to more and more exotic foods and that always means learning how to work with them. All of them have some sk... more »
Submarines set to be built in Australia under Turnbull government
[image: Collins class SSK]Defence Minister Kevin Andrews has strongly endorsed a pitch by shipbuilders to construct Australia's next fleet of submarines largely in Australia, signalling a major shift since Malcolm Turnbull became Prime Minister towards a local build that would deliver thousands of manufacturing jobs. In what amounts to a significant change by the Coalition, Mr Andrews talked up a pitch by French submarine builder DCNS under which about three-quarters of the building work – which will cost at least $20 billion – would be done in South Australia. His enthusiasm corre... more »
White House Has Prohibited The U.S. Navy From Sailing With 12 Miles Of Disputed Chinese-Built Islands In The South China Sea
An aerial photo taken though a glass window of a Philippine military plane shows the alleged on-going land reclamation by China on mischief reef in the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea, west of Palawan, Philippines, May 11, 2015. Reuters/Ritchie B. Tongo *USNI News:* *U.S. Weighing More Freedom of Navigation Operations in South China Sea Near Reclaimed Islands* The Obama administration is considering conducting more freedom of navigation missions in the South China Sea as a partial counter to China’s rapid artificial island expansion in the region, the Assistant Secretary of ... more »
Can The U.S. Military Compete And Stay Ahead Of China's Military?
A color guard of US and Chinese flags awaits the plane of China's President Hu Jintao at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland in this April 12, 2010 file photo. President Barack Obama unveiled a defense strategy on Thursday that would expand the US military presence in Asia but shrink the overall size of the force as the Pentagon seeks to reduce spending by nearly half a trillion dollars after a decade of war. Jonathan Ernst/Reuters/File *Peter Dombrowski, War On The Rocks:* *Can American Compete With China's Great Military Leap Forward?* Is the technological arms race offered by the ... more »
RICO: IPCC and comrades may be prosecuted for racketeering
ClimateDepot.com is informing us about a remarkable letter signed by 20 climate alarmists, Letter to President Obama, Attorney General Lynch, and OSTP Director Holdren . The famous climate scientist Kevin Trenberth is the only well-known signatory; the remaining ones are individuals who were hired in order to increase the apparent number of alarmists among the climate scientists. Yes, as you can easily calculate, about 19/20 ≈ 95% of the people often counted as climate scientists fit this description these days – they're intellectually impotent parasites paid to distort the scientif... more »
Syria, Just One of Obama’s Foreign-Policy Failures
[image: Map of Syria] The news that the Obama administration has spent $500 million to put “four or five” fighters on the ground in Syria adds an almost comic irony to what is ultimately a tragic farce. In the 1980s, the symbol of Republican... more »
Who Are The Winners And Losers From China Trade
Source: China General Administration of Customs; calculations by Rhodium Group *Andrew Coflan, Foreign Policy*:* Mapping the World’s Winners and Losers from China Trade* In the past year, the U.S., Australia, and Brazil have all taken a hit. The story of China’s trade over the past half-decade or more has stayed relatively consistent: countries exporting commodities to China have seen enormous inflows of money as the country has consumed huge quantities of raw materials, while developed countries in Europe and North America have run persistent and politically contentious deficits ... more »
City Under Siege: Artists Endorse Aaron Peskin To Lead Fight For Affordable San Francisco
Aaron Peskin, center, surrounded by supporters. Photo by Stewart Bloom By Denise Sullivan Cafe Zoetrope in North Beach was overflowing on Monday evening with politically engaged artists, writers, and neighbors gathered to support Aaron Peskin, candidate for Supervisor. A longtime affordable housing advocate and former chair of the SFDCCC, Peskin termed out of his Supervisor's seat in 2008, but a return to the Board representing District Three could mean a restoration to sanity in the City's legislative chamber if he succeeds in ousting the Ed Lee appointee, Julie Christensen. Citin... more »
Alcohol Is Becoming The Biggest Threat On The Ukraine Front Line
Kiev's war commanders are ready to allow almost anything to save soldiers from the gravest danger facing them during the current tentative truce -- booze (AFP Photo/Genya Savilov) *AFP*: *Shells silent, stressed Ukraine fighters face alcohol threat* Mariupol (Ukraine) (AFP) - Some Ukrainian troops play hours of football while others take dips in the sea as they try to adjust to a sudden drop in fighting following a fresh ceasefire deal. Kiev's war commanders are ready to allow almost anything to save soldiers from the gravest danger facing them during the current tentative truce --... more »
Musical Interlude: 2002, "Starwalkers"
2002, "Starwalkers" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SovcBYRFIxw
"The Small Beacon..."
"One is responsible to life: It is the small beacon in that terrifying darkness from which we come and to which we shall return. One must negotiate this passage as nobly as possible, for the sake of those who are coming after us." - James Baldwin, "The Fire Next Time"
"A Look to the Heavens"
“It's the bubble versus the cloud. NGC 7635, the Bubble Nebula, is being pushed out by the stellar wind of massive central star BD+602522. Next door, though, lives a giant molecular cloud, visible to the right. At this place in space, an irresistible force meets an immovable object in an interesting way. *Click image for larger size.* The cloud is able to contain the expansion of the bubble gas, but gets blasted by the hot radiation from the bubble's central star. The radiation heats up dense regions of the molecular cloud causing it to glow. The Bubble Nebula, pictured above in sci... more »
The Media’s Stupid Trump Obsession
[image: Paradox: Targeted by Fox News, Donald Trump Bombs First Debate — But GOP Still Loves Him] CNN gathered together all of the Republican presidential candidates at the Reagan Library for a highly touted debate and could hardly think to ask them about anything except Donald Trump. By one count, 44 percent of the questions touched on... more »
Chet Raymo, "Ratchet"
*"Ratchet"* by Chet Raymo "My MacBook laptop has been annoying me with glitches that are signs of old age (or planned obsolescence). Am I sorry? Not really. At last I can justify buying what I've wanted for several years - a MacBook Air. And here it is, in my trembling hands, in a package so sleek and slim that one wonders where there is room for the circuitry, flash drive and battery. For my money, the Air is the most sublime manifestation of human technology on the planet today. As a graduate student in physics in the early 1960s, I availed myself of a Univac computer that sat i... more »
The Poet: William Stafford, "Starting With Little Things"
*"Starting With Little Things" * "Love the earth like a mole, fur-near. Nearsighted, hold close the clods, their fine-print headlines. Pat them with soft hands- Like spades, but pink and loving; they break rock, nudge giants aside, affable plow. Fields are to touch; each day nuzzle your way. Tomorrow the world." - William Stafford
"Never Despair"
*"Never Despair"* by Sam Smith "Empires and cultures are not permanent and while thinking about the possibility that ours is collapsing may seem a dismal exercise it is far less so than enduring the frustrations, failures, damage and human casualties involved in constantly butting up against reality like a boozer who insists he is not drunk attempting to drive home. Peter Ustinov in 'Romanoff and Juliet' says at one point: "I'm an optimist: I know how bad the world is. You're a pessimist: you're always finding out." Or as GK Chesterton put it, "We must learn to love life without e... more »
“7 Best Shakespeare Insults”
*“7 Best Insults”* by The Huffington Post *"You should be women and yet your beards forbid me to interpret that you are so."* Shakespeare employs this biting insult in "Macbeth" to establish the complete and utter repulsiveness of the three witches. Their "withered and wild" features cause Macbeth and Banquo to question if the sisters are even human beings. *"Methinks thou art a general offence, and every man should beat thee. I think thou wast created for men to breathe themselves upon you."* In "All's Well That Ends Well," Lafeu hits infamous liar and coward Porolles with this... more »
Putin’s Gambit, Obama’s Puzzlement
[image: Vladimir Putin - 900] WASHINGTON -- Once again, President Obama and his foreign policy team are stumped. Why is Vladimir Putin pouring troops and weaponry into Syria? After all, as Secretary of State John Kerry has thrice told his Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov, it... more »
The Daily "Near You?"
Brainerd, Minnesota, USA. Thanks for stopping by.
"Mark Twain’s Top 9 Tips for Living a Great Life"
"Mark Twain’s Top 9 Tips for Living a Great Life" by Henrik Edberg "You may know Mark Twain for some of his very popular books like Adventures of Huckleberry Finn and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer. He was a writer and also a humorist, satirist and lecturer. Twain is known for his many – and often funny – quotes. Here are a few of my favorite tips from him. 1. Approve of yourself. “A man cannot be comfortable without his own approval.” If you don’t approve of yourself, of your behaviour and actions then you’ll probably walk around most of the day with a sort of uncomfortable feeling... more »
"Patience..."
"Have patience with everything unresolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves as if they were locked rooms or books written in a very foreign language. Don't search for the answers, which could not be given to you now, because you would not be able to live them. The point is: to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps, then, someday far in the future, you will gradually, without even noticing it, live your way into the answer." - Rainer Maria Rilke
"The Power Of Choice"
*"The Power Of Choice"* by Chuck Danes “Your power to choose is an unalienable right that each and every person on earth is given at birth, and has the ability to exercise. Every minute of every day the worlds population is presented with certain choices that must be made. These choices range from the most obvious, all the way to the extremely complex. In each of these choices being made, there is a specific outcome created that is eventually realized, and which ultimately determines a specific event in any given situation. These moment by moment choices that are made each day are ... more »
Things Are Getting Worse In Afghanistan
*Haroro J. Ingram, Quartz:* *On the streets of Kabul, despair and hope* It is fighting season in Afghanistan and August was particularly bloody on Kabul’s streets. In the weeks before I arrived in the city, attacks had left dozens dead, hundreds more injured and faith in the government’s ability to secure the capital all but shattered. While a secure Kabul rarely means a stable Afghanistan, an insecure Kabul inevitably signals a deeply unstable nation. Kabul’s violent summer pales compared to the surrounding provinces, especially in the south. As Western nations increasingly focu... more »
‘Anything Could Happen,’ GOP Debate Moderator Jake Tapper Said. Trumped Proved Him Right.
[image: GOP Debate Trump Bush Low Five - 900 000] SIMI VALLEY, Calif. -- “Anything could happen over the next few hours,” CNN anchor Jake Tapper announced at the prime-time Republican presidential debate. Anything did happen. Billionaire Donald Trump made faces and rolled his eyes. He mugged as a petulant little... more »
Perhaps surprisingly, there was a clear winner of last night's crypto-presidential debacle
*There's one candidate who contributed nothing dishonest, depraved, or demeaning to last night's debates (yes, debates -- either the varsity or the jayvee).* *"[N]ot an hour into the rollicking, interminable debate, as the candidates on the stage finally ganged up on front-runner Donald Trump, Gilmore tweeted that it was 'all process and nothing to tweet about.' "* *-- Dana Milbank, in his WaPo column* "The one candidate CNN refused to invite to the debate" *by Ken* No, of course I didn't watch That Thing Last Night. (You must be new here. No taker has begun to explore how much I w... more »
U.S. Defense Chief: U.S. Military Losing Its Tech Gap To Russia And China
*Photo*: U.S. Defense Secretary Ashton Carter. (Photo: US Defense Department) *Defense News:* *Carter: Russia, China Closing Tech Gap* NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. — Russia and China continue to close the military technology gap with the United States, Defense Secretary Ash Carter warned Wednesday. While the US remains ahead, that lead is imperiled by slow innovation and a lack of consistent budgets, Carter said in a speech at the Air Force Association’s annual conference outside of Washington. “Our technology remains the best," Carter said. "At the same time, we can’t ignore the overall... more »
Shorten the tests?
Sent to the New York Times, Sept. 17, 2015. Making the tests shorter is designed to give testing critics the feeling that they have accomplished something. ("New York Will Trim Common Core Exams After Many Students Skipped Them." Sept. 16.) All it does, however, is expand the floor of the cage a little bit. The serious problems with common core testing will remain: There will still be far too many tests and far too much time devoted to testing. Students will still be taking tests that have not been shown to be valid and have not been shown to increase learning. The tests cost schools... more »
20 Lies Everyone Should Know
*Media* - There is a wealth of truth hidden from us. Here's a list of 20 lies used to gain political or financial power that everyone should know. The post 20 Lies Everyone Should Know appeared first on Waking Times.
Is President Obama Doing The Same Mistake In Iraq That President Bush Did In 2003
President Barack Obama meets with his national security advisors in the Situation Room of the White House, Aug. 7, 2014. Credit: Official White House Photo by Pete Souza *Richard Fontaine and Vance Serchuk, Defense One*: *Obama Needs an ISIS War Czar Before It’s Too Late* Obama’s ISIS fight looks more like Iraq in 2003 than in 2007, when military and civilian leaders were synced hip-to-hip. With the Islamic State, or ISIS, still entrenched across a large swath of Iraq and Syria after a year of U.S.-led airstrikes, the Obama administration is under growing criticism for devoting in... more »
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