11:32 pm MST
Yesterday's SpaceX Rocket Launch In Southern California Attracted A Lot Of Attention
*Daily Mail:* *'The aliens are here': Arizona and California 911 centers are inundated with calls and celebrities go on a Twitter frenzy over 'spaceship-shaped light' in the sky - but it is just a Space X rocket* * Residents of Southern California and Arizona were startled just after dusk on Friday * A strange white light which later turned out to be a SpaceX rocket launch appeared in the sky * The streak of white light would create what turned out to be a fish-shaped pattern, prompting locals to speculate on social media as to what it was * Local television stations as well as ... more »
Picture Of The Day
*Loading a Round* A Marine loads a round into an M224 60 mm mortar system during a live-fire exercise at Camp Lejeune, N.C., Dec. 19, 2017. The unit used the hand-held, direct-lay and direct-alignment methods to engage targets 1,500 meters away. Marine Corps photo by Cpl. Aaron Henson *WNU Editor:* The above picture is from this photo-gallery .... *Marines Master Mortar System Skills* (US Department of Defense).
DJT Year One
Washington Examiner: *List of 81 Major Trump Achievements, 11 Obama Legacy Items Repealed*
A Look At Current Israeli Military Capabilities
*South Front:* *Israeli Military Capabilities, Scenarios for the Third Lebanon War* *The Current State of Affairs* At present time, Israel’s top political leadership is in the state of outright hysteria regarding Lebanese Hezbollah. Senior Israeli officials have repeatedly claimed that Israel will not allow Hezbollah and Iran to concentrate its forces in border areas and to expand their influence in the region, particularly in Syria and Lebanon. The already difficult situation in southern Lebanon and Syria was further complicated by the series of events, which contributed to the ... more »
Best of 2017
John Nichols put together *The Nation*'s annual honor roll a couple of days ago. The video above, by Arcade Fire and Mavis Staples was the pick for Most Valuable Song, "I Give You Power." He wrote that "Protest music made a comeback in 2017. Fiona Apple wrote an anthem for the Women’s March ('We don’t want your tiny hands anywhere near our underpants…'). Bruce Springsteen and former Iron City Houserockers leader Joe Grushecky ripped the new president on 'That’s What Makes Us Great' ('I never put my faith in a con man and his crooks…'). Joey Bada$$ spoke truth to power with 'Land o... more »
California says the only safe way to talk on your cell phone is to text
This month, the California Department of Health released guidelines warning residents about the dangers associated with putting cell phones up to our heads. While the guidelines have been in the works since 2009, for some reason, the state didn’t want to release them. However, thanks to a lawsuit from Joel Moskowitz, a Berkeley professor and director of
Fats don’t clog your arteries after all, new research shows.
Fats don’t clog your arteries after all, new research shows | World Economic Forum https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2017/05/why-scientists-might-have-it-all-wrong-about-fat-clogging-our-arteries?utm_content=bufferebebd&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer Advertisements
The world’s most popular operating system? You might be surprised.
The world’s most popular operating system? You might be surprised | World Economic Forum https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2017/04/the-world-s-most-used-operating-system-you-might-be-surprised?utm_content=buffera49b8&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer
Manhattan Town Hall with Kesha Rogers
World Land-Bridge Space Video of AhEacSq9QaQ Kesha Rogers, Independent Candidate for the 9th CD of Texas, joins the Manhattan Project to discuss the urgent necessity to establish a national science driver program and the economic principles of LaRouche's Four Laws as policy, to save the US economy from the imminent blowout of the financial system.
The Top 10 U.S. Military Stories of 2017
The Pentagon, headquarters of the United States Department of Defense, taken from an airplane in January 2008. Wikipedia *Military.com*: *The Top 10 Military Stories of 2017* The U.S. military saw a number of newsworthy events during the past year, from the swearing in of a new president and commander-in-chief to deadly ship collisions in the Pacific that triggered a leadership reorganization of the Navy's 7th Fleet. The list below highlights 10 stories from 2017 determined by Military.com editors to have the most editorial significance. But we also want to hear from you: What sto... more »
Christmas Musical Interlude: "Charlie Brown Christmas Dance"
"Charlie Brown Christmas Dance" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrDO_45yOsQ
Christmas Musical Interlude: The Eastern Wind Symphony, “Greensleeves”
The Eastern Wind Symphony, “Greensleeves” - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fnM0G7jcXLk
Christmas Musical Interlude: John Lennon, "So This Is Christmas"
John Lennon, "So This Is Christmas" - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClIv5FEHO3g
"A Look to the Heavens"
"The dark Horsehead Nebula and the glowing Orion Nebula are contrasting cosmic vistas. Adrift 1,500 light-years away in one of the night sky's most recognizable constellations, they appear in opposite corners of the above stunning mosaic. *Click image for larger size.* The familiar Horsehead nebula appears as a dark cloud, a small silhouette notched against the long red glow at the lower left. Alnitak is the easternmost star in Orion's belt and is seen as the brightest star to the left of the Horsehead. Below Alnitak is the Flame Nebula, with clouds of bright emission and dramatic ... more »
Chet Raymo, “Surrender To Facts”
*“Surrender To Facts”* by Chet Raymo “I'm currently reading two books. One I found in the house when I arrived, presumably left by a previous visitor: Cheryl Strayed's "Wild", a young woman's attempt to sort out her messed-up life and grief for her mother's death by hiking alone on the Pacific Crest Trail, many hundreds of miles along the ridges of California's Sierra Nevada and Oregon's Cascades mountains. The other, my friend Douglas Christie's "The Blue Sapphire of the Mind: Notes for a Contemplative Ecology", grounded in Doug's extensive knowledge of the Christian monastic trad... more »
US delegate to UN gets served by Russian Pranksters – video
The US ambassador to the United Nations has fallen victim to a phone prank perpetrated by a famous Russian duo, with whom she discussed the affairs of a fictional South China Sea island nation and the alleged harassment of the Ukrainian president by Kevin Spacey. Notorious Russian pranksters Vladimir Kuznetsov (Vovan) and Alexey Stolyarov (Lexus) […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Biggest rebel group in southern Syria rejects Sochi peace talks
BEIRUT, LEBANON (3:30 A.M.) – The largest rebel group in southern Syria issue a statement on Saturday rejecting the upcoming Sochi peace talks. In the statement, the Free Syrian Army’s Southern Front announced that they will not participate in the Sochi peace talks, adding that any rebel faction attending the conference will be considered an […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Jihadist war continues as ISIS storms Al-Qaeda’s positions in northeast Hama
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:55 A.M.) – The so-called Islamic State (ISIS) continued their offensive along the Hama-Idlib axis this weekend, targeting the defensive positions of the Al-Qaeda linked Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham rebel group at the large hilltop of Tal Zaghbaq. According to pro-opposition media, ISIS attacked Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham’s positions, tonight, at the southern slope of […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Largest Palestinian force in Syria heads to Hama for upcoming Idlib offensive
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:30 A.M.) – The most powerful Palestinian force in Syria, Liwaa Al-Quds, is heading to the northern countryside of Hama after a short deployment in the Deir Ezzor Governorate. According to Liwaa Al-Quds’ spokesperson, the Palestinian force is heading to northern Hama in order to meet up with the Syrian Arab Army troops […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Russian President Putin 'Sugar-Coats' The History Of The Soviet Secret Police
Russian President Vladimir Putin (C), Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu (L) and Russia's Federal Security Service (FSB) Director Alexander Bortnikov watch events to mark Victory Day in Sevastopol May 9, 2014. REUTERS/Maxim Shemetov *Newsweek:* *Putin: Soviet Secret Police Famed for Torturing, Jailing and Killing Millions Was Filled With 'True Patriots'* Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared the infamous Soviet Cheka secret police “integral” to the country’s history and stated that those who served in the ranks of the Kremlin’s security forces were patriots. “This year we mar... more »
Agriculture Associated with Central US Cooling Trend, Crop Growth
“Human activity has caused a significant long-term cooling trend (-0.35°C between the 1940s and 2009) and higher rainfall totals via the mechanism of “agricultural intensification” – a photosynthesis-associated increase in the air’s water vapor or humidity levels due to an … Continue reading →
Venezuela Expels Diplomats From Brazil And Canada
Delcy Rodriguez, president of the National Constituent Assembly, talks to the media during a news conference in Caracas in August. (Carlos Garcia Rawlins/Reuters) *BBC:* *Venezuela expels top Brazil and Canada diplomats* Venezuela has expelled the Brazilian ambassador to Caracas, Ruy Pereira, and Canadian charge d'affaires Craib Kowalik. The move was announced by the head of Venezuela's powerful Constituent Assembly, Delcy Rodriguez. Ms Rodriguez accused Canada of interfering in Venezuela's internal affairs and Brazil of violating the rule of law. Canada imposed sanctions on seni... more »
Model Failure…New Papers Show Climate Models Unreliable…At Times “Near-Zero Performance”!
A team led by Christopher O’Reilly has checked over how well the most common climate models have reproduced the winter temperatures of the northern hemisphere over the past 100 years. The scientists were astonished to find the prognosis performance for the middle of the 20th century was almost zero. That’s a bitter setback. The models appear … Continue reading "Model Failure…New Papers Show Climate Models Unreliable…At Times “Near-Zero Performance”!"
Climate Change Drivers
Summary Thermalization and the complete dominance of water vapor in reverse-thermalization explain why atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) has no significant effect on climate. Reported average global temperature (AGT) since before 1900 is accurately (98% match with measured trend) explained by a combination of ocean cycles (41.7%), sunspot number anomaly time-integral (38.0%) and increased atmospheric water … Continue reading "Climate Change Drivers"
The Navy Wants a New Frigate That Kills Submarines and Saves Aircraft Carriers
*Kris Osborn* *Security, * But will it be better than the LCS? *Plans for the ship, as specified by the solicitation to industry for concept design ideas, align with elements of the previously released Request for Information; Navy visions for the new ship appear to exceed some of the capabilities initially envisioned for a ship which began the planning stages as merely a more “survivable” variant of the services’ Littoral Combat Ship. While that sensibility is by no means lost, many sought after characteristics for the Frigate, such and anti-submarine and surface warfare, clea... more »
Would Britain Build Its Very Own Littoral Combat Vessel?
*Sebastien Roblin* *Security, Europe* London may have a native design that could do the trick. The United Kingdom is struggling to inject life in the shrinking Royal Navy and keep its shipyards active through its National Shipbuilding Strategy. For example, the island nation now has a single operational aircraft carrier—but, so far, no British F-35 stealth fighters to fly from it—and may retire all three of its amphibious landing ships. The new carrier *Queen Elizabeth*—along with all kinds of other vessels—requires escort ships to ride point and protect them from enemy warplane... more »
Why 'The Last Jedi' Teaches Us That the Battleship Is Truly Dead
*Robert Farley* *Security, * An old debate headlines a blockbuster movie. The first twenty minutes of *Star Wars: The Last Jedi* might have warmed the heart of Billy Mitchell’s Force ghost. The opening scenes effectively replayed the American interwar debates between advocates of air and naval power, with fighters and bombers attacking huge capital ships. These debates revolved around two big questions that drove procurement and the development of doctrine: how effective are aircraft against capital ships, and what kind of aircraft are most effective? *The Scene* The opening mo... more »
Lockheed Martin Awarded $7 Billion Contract to Get F-22 Ready for War
*Dave Majumdar* *Security, * And considering the stealth jet will be in service until 2060, it will be the first of many. The United States Air Force has awarded Lockheed Martin a new “indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract” worth roughly $7 billion to sustain the F-22 Raptor through December 31, 2027. “This contract provides for comprehensive F-22 air vehicle sustainment,” reads a Defense Department contract award. “Work will be performed at five operational bases: Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska; Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada; Tyndall Air Force Base, Florida... more »
Donald Trump Prepares to Escalate Confrontation with Russia over Ukraine
*Doug Bandow* *Security, Europe* Providing lethal weapons would almost certainly encourage the Ukrainians to press for even heavier arms and escalate the fighting, as well as discourage them from negotiating a settlement. Most Americans were told Donald Trump won the presidential election last year. But his policy toward Russia looks suspiciously like what a President Hillary Clinton would have pursued. Exhibit A is the apparent decision to arm Ukraine against Russia in the proxy conflict in the Donbass. This dunderheaded move will simply encourage Moscow to retaliate not only in... more »
Nazi Germany’s Super Jet Was Wooden and Designed to Be Flown by Teenagers
*Sebastien Roblin* *Security, Europe* A forgotten World War II saga. By the summer of 1944, the German Luftwaffe had a lot of problems. Huge Allied four-engine strategic bombers were pummeling Germany’s industrial base daily, escorted by long-range fighters that were frittering away the German flying arm’s elite cadres of combat pilots nurtured since the 1930s. While the bombing campaign failed to prevent German industrial output from increasing in 1944, due to increased mobilization and use of slave labor, attacks targeting petroleum production proved extremely effective. By the... more »
Che, Stalin, Mussolini and the Thinkers Who Loved Them
*Aram Bakshian Jr.* *Politics, Europe* [image: Image: Cubans march during the May Day parade on Revolution Square in Havana, May 1, 2007. Reuters/Claudia Daut] Why are intellectuals and thinkers, who normally face persecution and risk under dictatorial regimes, nonetheless attracted to tyrants and would-be liberators? Paul Hollander, *From Benito Mussolini to Hugo Chavez: Intellectuals and a Century of Political Hero Worship* (Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2016), 325 pp., $29.99. WE LIVE in the age of self-proclaimed “public intellectuals,” although precisely what they ... more »
To Stop North Korea, Deterrence Will Beat War Every Time
*Doug Bandow* *Security, Asia* Washington shouldn’t blow up the peninsula after helping to keep the peace for more than sixty-four years. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson has been roughly treated by the White House of late. Perhaps that explains his dismissal of the possibility of deterring North Korea, a military midget compared to Joseph Stalin’s Soviet Union and Mao Zedong’s China. When asked why it was not possible to contain the far weaker Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, he responded: “The difference is that with the past behavior of North Korea, it is clear to us th... more »
Programmed obsolescence for iPhone? Apple has an app for that! iOS update.
Forget planned obsolescence, the digital age means manufacturers can trigger killer apps like a remote switch for the hangman’s trap door. Just poke a hole in your customer’s canteen if you want to bring them back to your watering hole. Was Apple’s throttling of late model iPhones mentioned in the fine print which users approve […]
Want To Stop Conservative Democrats From Betraying The Party? Take Part In The Nominating Process
In the 2006 midterm elections there was a huge wave against Bush and the Republican Party, Despite the DCCC running some really ghastly Republican-lite candidates-- tons of putrid Blue Dogs-- the wave swept them into office. The Republican House losses: 30 seats. The list below are districts that flipped from red to fake-blue and then subsequently flipped back to red once voters realized they been cheated (primarily by DCCC charlatan Rahm Emanuel): *•* AZ-05- J.D. Hayworth to Blue Dog Harry Mitchell to David Schweikert *•* FL-16- Mark Foley to Blue Dog Tim Mahoney to Tom Rooney *... more »
Did Alabama Election Officials Find Thousands of Dead People Who Voted for Doug Jones?
Reports that Democrat Doug Jones received votes from over 12,000 dead people in a special Senate election are fake news.
Alt Media Journalist Broke a Story Before Local News, So She Was Arrested, Charged With Felonies
By Matt Agorist Laredo, TX — If you report a story before the police department is scheduled to release it to local media, you can... more »
Why Are We Still Using Facebook?
By Derrick Broze Facebook has acknowledged what multiple studies have already confirmed – the social network has a tendency to make users depressed, stressed, and... more »
New Gift-Wrapped UFO Revelations From The Pentagon: What’s Going On?
By Jon Rappoport You’re walking through a sea of misinformation, disinformation, lies, speculation, goofball theories—and suddenly, the wise men behind the curtain decide to reach... more »
Beyond Digital Addiction: Your Kids May Be Affected by Wi-Fi and Electronic Devices Even If You Aren’t
By Hope S. Good Emotional, Mental and Physical Health may be affected. Symptoms May Not Be Immediate. Misdiagnosis is Common. Medication offers no cure. Just... more »
Top Ten Conspiracy Theories That Turned FACT in 2017
By Matt Agorist In 2013, Professor Lance Dehaven-Smith—in a peer-reviewed book published by the University of Texas Press—showed that the term “conspiracy theory” was developed... more »
Masked Intruders Broke Into WikiLeaks’ Head Legal Office In Madrid, Tape Security Cameras
By Aaron Kesel As the war against the CIA heats up, masked intruders (likely belonging to the Central Intelligence Agency) broke into WikiLeaks’ head legal... more »
Facebook Continues Handing Data To Governments Worldwide
By Aaron Kesel Facebook is continuing to show its disregard for privacy as it hands its user data to governments all over the world. According... more »
Meet Mitt Romney’s Frank Nitti: Paul Traub
By Aaron Kesel According to well-known white collar defense attorney, Darryl A. Goldberg, Ponzi schemes remain on the radar of the DOJ because there were...more »
Major Protests Erupt In Iraqi Kurdistan Over Corruption, Salaries — Iraq Gov’t Warns KRG
By Brandon Turbeville Only a few months after a failed “independence referendum” which saw the Iraqi government reassert its control over the Kurdish areas, the...more »
Facebook Handing Over More Info To US Government: “This Is What Facebook Was Designed To Do”
By Mac Slavo Every year, Facebook gets tens of thousands of requests for data from governments worldwide, including search warrants, subpoenas, or calls to restrict... more »
FISA Reauthorization Delayed, But The Fight Against The Deep State Continues
By Derrick Broze On Wednesday the House Rules Committee decided to postpone a rushed vote on extending the controversial section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act.... more »
Greenpeace Always Makes a Disaster out of it
By Daniel Wetzel | As of: 18.12.2017 https://www.welt.de/wirtschaft/article171696371/Eine-Katastrophe-macht-immer-erst-Greenpeace-draus.html [This English version authorised by Patrick Moore.] “Arguably, the former environmental activist Patrick Moore is difficult to overcome” – Source: Martin U. K. Lengemann Patrick Moore once helped to found Greenpeace. Today, the ecologist considers the organization an unscientific lobby group. He has a provocative message: carbon […]
First two weeks of Bitcoin futures
*Bitcoin bears' path to killing the cryptocurrency industry and make a profit seems safe now* The Bitcoin futures as defined by CBOE have been trading since December 11th, 0:00 Pilsner Winter Time, and those by CME from December 18th, 0:00 Pilsner Winter Time. *Bitcoin price in the recent 7 days – picture will be updated.* We didn't know any *numbers* describing these new markets, especially the volumes and the ratio of bulls and bears. The volumes started at tiny values – roughly 3,000 CBOE contracts (=1 Bitcoin) and below 1,000 CME contracts (=5 Bitcoins). On the second day and... more »
"It's Still Possible..."
"It is still possible to have friendly discourse in America, as long as you don't bring up any subject." - Robert Brault
"Letting Go With Forgiveness"
*"Letting Go With Forgiveness"* by Madisyn Taylor, The DailyOM "Forgiveness is a very tender subject. It brings up lots of memories, emotions and desire in most of us. I’m glad you’ve chosen to explore forgiveness as a healing tool in your life, for it is a sacred journey. Forgiveness is the most powerful medicine I’ve found to heal the human heart. *What is Forgiveness?* As I mentioned earlier, forgiveness truly is heart medicine. It involves the healing experience of Divine contact. The Divine has many names, including the Holy Spirit, the Divine Mother, Father God, Great Spirit... more »
"A Great Shock..."
"It is a great shock at the age of five or six to find that in a world of Gary Coopers you are the Indian." - James Baldwin
The Daily "Near You?"
North Port, Florida, USA. Thanks for stopping by!
Paulo Coelho, "Christmas Prayer"
*"Christmas Prayer"* by Paulo Coelho "At a certain point during my pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, we came to a flat, monotonous field of wheat stretching all the way to the horizon. The only thing breaking the dull landscape was a medieval column with a cross on top, marking the pilgrims’ way. Petrus – my guide – put down his backpack and knelt down. "Have pity on those who pity themselves, and think life has been unjust to them – for they will never manage to engage in the Good Fight. But have more pity on those who are cruel to themselves, and can only see evil in their o... more »
"Can You Keep Christmas?"
"Are you willing to forget what you have done for other people, and to remember what other people have done for you? To remember the weakness and loneliness of people who are growing old? Are you willing to believe that love is the strongest thing in the world... stronger than hate, stronger than evil, stronger than death? Then you can keep Christmas! But you can never keep it alone." - Henry van Dyke
"Written on Christmas Eve, 1513"
"Written on Christmas Eve, 1513" "I salute you. I am your friend, and my love for you goes deep. There is nothing I can give you which you have not. But there is much, very much, that, while I cannot give it, you can take. No heaven can come to us unless our hearts find rest in it today. Take heaven! No peace lies in the future which is not hidden in this present little instant. Take peace! The gloom of the world is but a shadow. Behind it, yet within our reach, is joy. There is radiance and glory in darkness, could we but see. And to see, we have only to look. I beseech you to loo... more »
Newsweek reports that veteran intelligence experts believe that Trump is indeed a Kremlin asset.
Courtesy of Newsweek: *In a December 18 interview on CNN, retired Air Force Lieutenant General James Clapper, the former director of national intelligence, virtually called Trump a Putin puppet. The Russian president, Clapper noted, is a former KGB “case officer,” or spy recruiter, who “knows how to handle an asset, and that's what he's doing with the president. That’s the appearance to me.” (Pressed to clarify his “asset” comment, Clapper said, “I’m saying this figuratively.”)* *“Wow,” tweeted former CIA Russian hand John Sipher. “The rest of us try to find other clever ways to ... more »
"A Great Shock..."
"It is a great shock at the age of five or six to find that in a world of Gary Coopers you are the Indian." - James Baldwin
“Our Last Christmas In The Old America?”
*“Our Last Christmas In The Old America?”* by Justin Raimondo "As the world celebrates the birthday of the Prince of Peace, the Lord of War looms large over the land. The shrikes and talking heads are screeching for Iranian blood, and there are ominous signs in the stars. The war god’s acolytes flood the airwaves with “a complex of vaunting and fear,” as an old prophet once put it, and men of peace are disdained as “weak,” “dangerous,” and “extreme.” Who will save us from the coming slaughter? There is no Savior, no man on a white horse or divine sacrificial offering who can stop o... more »
"At The End Of The Day..."
"Maybe we're not supposed to be happy. Maybe gratitude has nothing to do with joy. Maybe being grateful means recognizing what you have for what it is. Appreciating small victories. Admiring the struggle it takes to simply be a human. Maybe, we're thankful for the familiar things we know. And maybe, we're thankful for the things we'll never know. At the end of the day, the fact that we have the courage to still be standing is reason enough to celebrate." - "Grey's Anatomy"
Climate scientists take on the ‘it’s not the heat, its the humidity’ meme
Originally posted on Watts Up With That?: From the THE EARTH INSTITUTE AT COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY and “the edge of wetness” department. Humidity may prove breaking point for some areas as temperatures rise, says study From US south to China, heat stress could exceed human endurance Climate scientists say that killer heat waves will become increasingly prevalent…
The Profound and Dominant Impact of Atmospheric Water Vapor upon Ozone Destruction
Originally posted on Watts Up With That?: Guest essay by Michael Wallace, Hydrologist The prevailing model of seasonal and long term global ozone depletion is grounded in a principal assertion that emissions of industrial refrigerants and propellants (also known as Ozone Destroying Substances, ODSs) are the primary causal agents. I review that assertion from a…
New York Times: President Trump Reportedly Said Haitians 'All Have AIDS' And Nigerians Live In 'Huts'
*Business Insider:** Trump reportedly said Haitians 'all have AIDS' and Nigerians live in 'huts' during outburst on immigration* * President Donald Trump reportedly said 15,000 Haitians who received US visas "all have AIDS" and 40,000 Nigerians would never "go back to their huts" after seeing the US. * Trump made the reported comments during a June meeting, after growing frustrated at the amount of foreigners allotted visas to the US. * The White House has vehemently denied that Trump used those terms in the meeting. President Donald Trump reportedly grew enraged at a June meeting ... more »
Unveiling the depths of the human psyche: Psychedelics may unlock parts of the mind that are normally inaccessible
By Dr. Mercola Peace. Love. Happiness. We, as human beings, sometimes spend our entire lives trying to fulfill an innate yearning for these deep-rooted emotions, which provide a unique feeling of interconnectedness that makes us feel one with nature and the universe as a whole. Unfortunately, Western culture is largely characterized by materialism, unrealistic demands
“The Dangers of Buying on Margin”
*“The Dangers of Buying on Margin”* By Joshua Kennon "Like the flashing lights and sounds of clinking coins at a casino, buying stocks on margin is one of those things that might appear on the surface to be a great way to make money. The pitch usually goes something this, "If you have a few thousand dollars in your brokerage account, you might qualify to borrow money against your existing stocks at a low interest rate to buy even more stock, leveraging your returns!" The reality is that trading on margin is an inherently speculative strategy that can transform even the safest blue ... more »
"Kite in a Tree"
*"Kite in a Tree"* by Jeff Thomas "When I was a boy, cartoonist Charles Schulz introduced a new comic strip called, “Peanuts.” Its central premise was children having the same problems as adults, and was an instant hit. There were several recurring themes and, each autumn, the cartoonist would have his main character, Charlie Brown, attempt to fly a kite. At first all would go well, and Charlie Brown would build up his hopes, only to have them dashed when a tree would snag his kite and eat it. This theme was endlessly enjoyable, as it reflected a syndrome familiar to all adults. T... more »
FBI Deputy Director Andrew G. McCabe To Retire Next Year
Andrew McCabe in July 2016. (Photo: James Lawler Duggan/Reuters) *New York Times:* *Andrew McCabe, F.B.I.’s Embattled Deputy, Is Expected to Retire* WASHINGTON — The F.B.I.’s embattled deputy director, Andrew G. McCabe, an unlikely lightning rod who has been attacked repeatedly by President Trump and congressional Republicans, is expected to retire after he becomes eligible for his pension early next year, according to people familiar with his decision. While Mr. McCabe’s plans to leave aren’t unexpected, his decision should take some of the pressure off Christopher A. Wray, who w... more »
ICE AGE EARTH: Global FREEZE lasting 120 YEARS threatens ‘more intense’ winters from 2019
//players.brightcove.net/2540076170001/B1UbbrV5l_default/index.html?videoId=5423032239001#t=00s In the coming years, David Dilley, CEO of Global Weather Oscillations, believes winters will only become “more intense” in the UK due to a combination of “dangerous” climate factors. His research shows that by 2019, Earth will enter a natural 120-year cooling cycle that happens roughly every 230 years, bucking the warming trend. Predictions … Continue reading "ICE AGE EARTH: Global FREEZE lasting 120 YEARS threatens ‘more intense’ winters from 2019"
Progressive Mendacity on Tax Reform
Vice President Mike Pence, as President of the Senate, announces final passage of the Tax Cut and Jobs Act in the Senate, 51-48. Screen shot of Right Side Broadcasting Network video on Youtube The lies of progressive politicians, pundits, and progressive allied news media have seriously misled Americans about what the recently passed GOP tax […] The post Progressive Mendacity on Tax Reform appeared first on A Divided World.
Syrian Army attempts to advance in southern Aleppo after failed jihadist assault
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:30 A.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) launched a powerful attack in the southern part of Aleppo, tonight, following Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham’s failed advance near the town of Khan Touman. Backed by the National Defense Forces (NDF) and Al-Ba’ath Battalions, the Syrian Army attempted to advance north of Khan Touman, where they […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Video: Houthi forces blow up armed vehicle with guided missile
DAMASCUS, SYRIA (12:25 AM) – Video footage released by Ansarullah, also known as the Houthi movement, show armed forces loyal to the organisation target and successfully blow up a military transport vehicle used by Saudi-backed troops. The attack took place in the Nihm district in northern Yemen, where Ansarullah forces ambushed a Saudi pickup truck […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Iranian minister slams Bahraini FM for offensive tweets
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:00 A.M.) – Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesman on Saturday censured the rude and offensive tweets posted by the Bahraini Foreign Minister regarding the Iranian territories and its government. “It’s not helpful to pick a fight with the USA over side issues while we together fight the clear and present danger of The Theo-Fascist […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Syrian Army imposes its will on northern Hama
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:40 P.M.) – For the second night in a row, the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) unleashed a vicious assault on the jihadist defenses in the northern countryside of the Hama Governorate. The Syrian Arab Army fired more than 100 surface-to-surface missiles and artillery shells into the towns of Al-Lataminah, Kafr Zita, and Latmin, […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Lebanese Army arrests several Syrian Al-Qaeda members near Israeli border
BEIRUT, LEBANON (10:40 P.M.) – The Lebanese Army arrested a large number of Syrian militants belonging to the Al-Qaeda linked Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham jihadist group in the disputed Sheba’a Farms on Saturday, a military communique read. According to the communique, the Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham militants were arrested by the Lebanese Army during a raid near […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Thousands mourn Palestinian killed in clashes with Israeli forces
Thousands of mourners, some crying in anguish and despair, attended the funeral of Mohammad Muhaisen in eastern Gaza, Saturday, after he was killed during a protest with Israeli forces day earlier. Footage captured a dramatic procession as they marched through the city streets carrying aloft the dead body. The 29 year-old Palestinian was reportedly killed […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Saudi-backed forces advance on Yemen’s capital
BEIRUT, LEBANON (10:15 P.M.) – The Saudi-backed Yemeni Army and Hadi loyalists continued their offensive in the eastern part of the Sana’a Governorate, Saturday, capturing several sites from the Houthi forces near the Marib axis. According to the Yemeni Army’s official media wing, their 7th Division attacked the Dahshush, Jabal al-Tafaha, Tabat al-Qanaseen and Jabal […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Russia hopes for joint work with US in fighting Jabhat Al-Nusra in Syria
Russia hopes for joint work with the U/S/ in fighting Jabhat Al-Nusra in Syria, head of the Russian delegation to the talks on Syria in Astana, the Russian president’s envoy on the Syrian settlement Alexander Lavrentyev told TASS on Saturday. “We have a positive experience in joint work fighting the IS (terrorist organization outlawed in […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Wealthiest Saudi prince reportedly pressured to pay $6 billion for freedom
Prince al-Waleed bin Talal, whose fortune is estimated to be some $18.6 billion, was detained in November along with other princes and high profile Saudi officials as part of the massive anti-corruption probe launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The Wall Street Journal has published a report suggesting that the Saudi government ordered al […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Syrian Army scores new advance inside Beit Jinn near occupied Golan Heights
BEIRUT, LEBANON (8:55 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) scored a new advance inside the Beit Jinn pocket near the occupied Golan Heights on Saturay, capturing several areas from the jihadist rebels of Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham. Led by their elite 42nd Brigade of the 4th Mechanized Division, the Syrian Arab Army continued their advance […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Tensions Continue To Rise Between Madrid And Catalonia
*The Guardian:* *Catalonia’s hopes for peace stall as further wave of arrests feared* Tensions continue to rise as Catalans elect 19 jailed, exiled or bailed politicians, and separatists claim the judiciary is acting on Madrid’s orders. The dramatic election in Catalonia on Thursday was supposed to draw a line under months of tension and division across the Spanish region over its future status. Instead it has opened a potentially damaging new division with suggestions that a fresh wave of arrests of Catalan nationalists may be unleashed. Altogether, 19 of the elected candidates... more »
"A Prayer for the World"
"A Prayer for the World" "Let the rain come and wash away the ancient grudges, the bitter hatreds held and nurtured over generations. Let the rain wash away the memory of the hurt, the neglect. Then let the sun come out and fill the sky with rainbows. Let the warmth of the sun heal us wherever we are broken. Let it burn away the fog so that we can see each other clearly, So that we can see beyond labels, beyond accents, gender or skin color. Let the warmth and brightness of the sun melt our selfishness, So that we can share the joys and feel the sorrow of our neighbors. And let the light ... more »
That would be a Mexican matter
Alinka Echeverria The BBC is, it goes without saying, more than capable of conjuring up the occasional gem. One such gem is a recent BBC Four series on Mexican art called *The Art That Made Mexico: Paradise, Power and Prayers*. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and recommend it strongly to you too. Even if you think you couldn't care less about Mexican art I suspect you'll find that you *do* care (even if only a little bit) after watching this glorious series. And my feelings towards presenter Alinka Echeverria are very warm. (I'd happily watch her present every episode of *Newsnight,* ... more »
Ice Cores an Unreliable Indicator of Past Climate Changes
There are several underlying assumptions made in studies of ice cores such as this which make the results unreliable indicators of past and future climate changes. Nevertheless this study represents a lot of work by many very talented scientists and … Continue reading →
The Winter Solstice Begins a Season of Storytelling and Ceremony
The winter solstice inaugurates storytelling season in Indian Country. The new lunar cycle is a spiritual time for many cultures including American Indian tribes. *Ojibwe (Minnesota Chippewa Tribe): *Like many events in American Indian culture there is a proper time and place for all activities. Traditional storytelling is reserved for the winter months for many tribes. This was a practical choice given the fact that during the other season’s, people were busy growing, gathering, and hunting food. It was in the winter, with the long dark evenings, the snow and wind blowing outside, ... more »
Did Trump Put ‘Make America Great Again’ on Presidential Challenge Coins?
Past designs of the tokens, have been subtler and included the phrase 'E pluribus unum.'
Apparently her engagement did not prove a big enough of a distraction so Willow Palin takes to social media to defend her out of control brother.
Courtesy of the Daily Mail: *The 23-year-old hairdresser took to social media and blasted her brother's critics on Friday, saying: ' I swear the second people decide to post a rude comment about someone else's family ... all of the sudden they come from a family full of frickin saints who have done no wrong.' * *She also took aim at one woman in particular who wrote: 'Well at least her brother didn't kick the s*** out of the fiance. By the way is Willow knocked up yet? You know, like following in her sister's footsteps.' * *Willow responded by mocking the woman,saying: 'Still want... more »
About that "Nativity" creche at the Vatican...
*instead of looking for Waldo, we're looking for the Holy Family.* Good luck finding them. And when you do, you'll also find an ugly manly Virgin, an upset and befuddled looking Joseph, and a bunch of cherubs who appear to have fully developed breasts. The baby Jesus is covered with a hastily thrown rag of a cloth and tied up with a rope until the kidnappers set him free on Christmas eve as soon as the ransom is paid. Surrounding this is a bunch of social justice warriors representing the corporal works of mercy, including a buff naked guy, and a dead guy on a pallet. *Nothing ... more »
Citing U.S. Pressure, Honduran Opposition Leader Accepts Defeat In Last Month's Presidential Election
Honduran opposition candidate Salvador Nasralla addresses the media after the U.S. backed the re-election of Honduran President Juan Orlando Hernandez despite allegations of fraud by the opposition, in Tegucigalpa, Honduras December 22, 2017. ( Reuters ) *TRT:* *Honduran opposition leader accepts defeat as US steps in* Salvador Nasralla conceded shortly after Honduras' key ally Washington endorsed President Juan Orlando Hernandez's re-election, following a month of sometimes deadly street clashes. Honduran opposition candidate Salvador Nasralla said his bid for the presidency was... more »
This is a local blog for local people...
In this house we always liked *The League of Gentlemen, *and it was very kind of the BBC to bring it back after 15 years for three final episodes on consecutive nights just before Christmas. It was horrifyingly funny. It was magnificent. I loved almost every second of it. (I got very squeamish about one thing - no, not the exploding hedgehog scene - but I'll only share that with a psychiatrist and/or Sue). Times change. The old *The League of Gentlemen *had us laughing at Barbara, the gruff-voiced, hairy-armed transsexual taxi driver. The new *The League of Gentlemen *also feat... more »
Deficit Spending And Populist E-Mail Chains
This has been circulating in Nashville's music community this week and, at first, I was surprised to see the progenitor was-- at least inspirationally-- Warren Buffet, rather than Jimmy Buffett. "Let's see," it begins, "if these idiots understand what people pressure is all about." Salary of retired US Presidents ... .. . . ..$180,000 FOR LIFE. Salary of House/Senate members ... . . .$174,000 FOR LIFE. This is stupid Salary of Speaker of the House ... .. . . ..$223,500 FOR LIFE. This is really stupid Salary of Majority / Minority Leaders . . ..$193,400 FOR LIFE. Stupid Average... more »
GOSH, WE HAVE NO IDEA HOW THIS HAPPENED, BUT THE DARN CARRIED INTEREST DEDUCTION IS STILL THERE
*The New York Times* reports that the Trump administration *tried* to get rid of the carried interest loophole, but darn it, the thing somehow survived. This week, as senior White House officials acclaimed passage of the tax overhaul in Congress, they also expressed one regret: failing to close the so-called carried interest “loophole” that benefits wealthy hedge fund managers and private equity executives. Despite Mr. Trump’s vows to eliminate a tax rule that allows some rich business leaders to pay lower tax rates than their secretaries, the president in this case was no match fo... more »
Backdoor Negotiations Between The U.S. And Venezuela?
Globovisión president Raúl Gorrín shakes hands with Vice President Mike Pence. Courtesy *Miami Herald*: *This Venezuelan mogul met Pence. Is he trying to broker an exit strategy for Maduro?* A Venezuelan millionaire declared persona non grata by the City of Miami for his alleged ties to the Maduro regime is trying to broker an exit strategy with the Trump administration for his beleaguered government, according to various Washington sources. Raúl Gorrín, criticized for the controversial purchase in 2013 of the then pro-opposition news channel Globovisión, has paid Ballard Partners... more »
Was Rosie O’Donnell Arrested for Trying to Bribe Lawmakers?
Reports that the comedian was taken into custody by federal authorities over a controversial political tweet are fake news.
The new face of science -- and attacking "citizen science."
We'll do a weekend science roundup, showing some of our tremendous advances... plus a strange look at citizen science. Starting with... ... foresight through AI: UC Berkeley researchers have developed a robotic learning technology that enables robots to imagine the future of their actions so they can figure out how to manipulate objects they have never encountered before. Useful for a myriad functions like self-driving cars… but also the underlying skill that led to human consciousness. “Facebook’s new “proactive detection” artificial intelligence technology will scan all posts for ... more »
The top Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee says the evidence he has seen makes the Russia investigation "the most important thing" he will ever work on.
Courtesy of Raw Story: *The ranking Democrat on the Senate Intelligence Committee suggested he’s seen damning evidence in the investigation of Russian campaign interference — but he hinted special counsel Robert Mueller had even more proof. * *Sen. Mark Warner (D-VA) said he’s more convinced than ever that the investigation is crucial to preserving U.S. democracy, according to Axios. * *The Virginia Democrat told the website that, “based on witness testimony and documents that he has seen behind closed doors, the Russia probe is ‘the most important thing I will ever work on.'” * ... more »
Top Russian Envoy To Afghanistan: Moscow Ready To Work With US On Afghanistan
National flags of Russia and the U.S. fly at Vnukovo International Airport in Moscow, Russia April 11, 2017. REUTERS/Maxim Shemetov Reuters *The Hill:* *Moscow ready to work with US on Afghanistan, top Russian envoy says* A top Russian foreign ministry official said in an interview published Saturday that Moscow is ready to cooperate with the United States on Afghanistan. Zamir Kabulov, Russian President Vladimir Putin's special envoy to Afghanistan, told Russia's state-run RIA news agency that Moscow has stayed in contact with Alice Wells, the acting U.S. assistant secretary of ... more »
India Recorded an Astounding 15.6 Million Abortions in 2015
[image: india-recorded-an-astounding-15-6-million-abortions-in-2015] India was responsible for an estimated 15.6 million abortions in 2015, putting it close to China's record in the number of pre-born baby killings.
THE BBC's OFFICIAL FESTIVE FIFTY BIAS TECHNIQUES...
Your Yuletide reading is here http://isthebbcbiased.blogspot.co.uk/2017/12/guest-post-bbcs-official-festive-fifty_22.html The 50 techniques of BBC bias listed. A much read for all, especially those who work for the BBC who can see how many of the 50 they are guilty of.
Facebook handing over tons of data to US government, exactly as it was designed to do
Facebook is handing over more and more data to government than ever before. More The post Facebook handing over tons of data to US government, exactly as it was designed to do appeared first on The Duran.
Saturday Afternoon Links
Assorted content for your weekend reading. - Joan Hennessy writes that instead of limiting ourselves to holiday-season charity, we should insist on fair wages and dignity for our fellow citizens throughout the year: ll the while, the economy has been on the mend and corporate earnings have risen, but the federal minimum wage remains $7.25 per hour, the level set in 2009. While the rate is higher in 29 states and the District of Columbia, it hovers below the $15 per hour that families need to put food on the table and pay the bills, according to the Massachusetts Institute of Techno... more »
Gasoline on a Fire: Why Arms Sales to Ukraine are a Really Bad Idea
*Ted Galen Carpenter* *Security, Europe* Washington’s authorization of weapons sales to Kiev risks destabilizing a very delicate situation. It’s been a very bad month for Washington’s relations with Moscow, culminating in the Trump administration’s ill-advised decision to authorize the commercial sale of “defensive” weapons to Ukraine. The flippant comment that Secretary of Defense James Mattis expressed earlier in Kiev apparently summarizes the administration’s attitude. According to Mattis, “defensive weapons are not provocative unless you are an aggressor, and clearly Ukrai... more »
The Mongol Horde of Women
Yes, of course the BBC is pushing a feminist agenda in its website 'news resource' on Modern women in the land of Genghis Khan, but it's an interesting, informative piece and it introduced me to a gigantic statue of Genghis Khan which I never knew existed. One of the passages in the pieces where the hardships caused by the collapse of communist one-party rule in Mongolia were mentioned made me raised my eyebrows heavenwards though: What that passage leaves out is that for that 'loss' something else of great importance was gained. Yes, Mongolia may have had more women MPs in the... more »
Israel, same as the US, to Exit UNESCO- Breaking News
*Via Jerusalem Post:* *Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Friday directed Israel's UNESCO ambassador Carmel Shama Hacohen to exit the United Nation's Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) after previous threats to do so.Joining the US, which left UNESCO in October, Israel notified the organization that, as of December 31st, it will no longer be a member.''Sane and well-run countries have nothing to find in the absurd theater which is UNESCO'', said Shama Hacohen. ''The US left UNESCO, at the bottom line, because of Israel, and it is our moral duty that i... more »
Russian Media: About 10,000 Islamic State Militants In Afghanistan
*VOA:* *Russia Says About 10,000 IS Militants Now in Afghanistan * ISLAMABAD — Russia has estimated there are about 10,000 Islamic State militants in Afghanistan and their number is growing because fighters fleeing Syria and Iraq also are heading to the war-ravaged country. Russian media on Saturday quoted Zamir Kabulov, Russia's special presidential envoy for Afghanistan, as saying Moscow is particularly worried about an increasing foothold of Daesh militants in northern Afghan provinces bordering Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. Daesh is the Arabic acronym for IS. "Russia was among... more »
Russian Deputy Prime Minister says Russians not going to Syria anymore
The flow of Russian nationals going to Syria in order to fight for terrorist groups has stopped, Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Khloponin said Saturday. “We do not see lots of them. No longer. Now we see that the flow going in revised direction,” Khloponin said, answering the question on whether many Russians were going […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
Syrian Army infiltration mission in north Hama backfires
BEIRUT, LEBANON (8:00 P.M.) – Free Syrian Army-linked militants have repelled an infiltration attempt by the Syrian Arab Army near a key rebel-controlled town in the northern countryside of Hama province. According to Free Syrian Army sources, rebel forces positioned at the Sakhr checkpoint, located south of the militant-held town of Kafr Nabudah, turned back […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز
The Radical “Environmentalists” Are Too Often the Problem, Not the Answer
Modern “environmentalists” are increasingly not the answer to environmental problems; they are too often the primary problem. They are attempting to remake society, government, and the economy to solve what they claim are environmental problems. Their “cures” are often much worse than the problems, which are increasingly more minor or even non-problems. Some of the … Continue reading "The Radical “Environmentalists” Are Too Often the Problem, Not the Answer"
Palm Springs Declares War On ‘RACIST’ Trees
The greatest advantage Progressives have over Conservatives is that they are willing to exploit epic levels of ignorance, and the fears, insecurities, and vulnerabilities of women and minorities. If you can convince your believers/Sheeple that trees are racist, you can convince them of anything. Progressives will never engage in a conversation to convince people that trees … Continue reading "Palm Springs Declares War On ‘RACIST’ Trees"
Couple Beaten, Arrested, & CONVICTED Until Body Cam Footage Proved Their Innocence
[image: couple]An innocent couple were beaten and arrested by cops and convicted of crimes they did not commit until body camera footage proved they were innocent.
Govt Looking At Road Tolls For Lorries
By Paul Homewood I think we all saw this coming: Britain’s first national pay-per-mile road charging system is being considered by the government, The Times has learnt. Mileage and emissions-based charges could be introduced for lorries to cut traffic under a proposal by the Department for Transport (DfT). It is outlining the system […]
Venetian winds
Something on tonight's *PM* made me laugh. Naga Munchetty was in full 'social justice warrior' flow about Princess Michael of Kent's blackamoor broach when the wind got abruptly taken out of her sails... ...not that she didn't persist with her original line of questioning regardless for quite a while longer though! Still, Joanna Hardy of *The Antiques Roadshow *gave her and the Radio 4 audience a welcome dose of informed good sense. On a less happy note, it makes you realise (yet again) just how silly, uninformed, irrational and downright unpleasant these kinds of Twitter-provo... more »
The Second Best Photo of 2017
*Barky and Mooch wave good-bye as they board Special Air Mission 28000 at Joint Base Andrews, Md. to fly their asses out of town, Jan. 20, 2017, after the swearing in of the 45th President of the United States.*
Prosecutors Finally Look at Neglected Rape Kits and Found Cops Let 817 Serial Rapists Walk Free
[image: kits]While Detroit Police filled a warehouse with more than 11,300 untested rape kits, nearly 1,000 serial rapists also continued to accumulate victims.
This Day In Iraqi History - Dec 23
1920 Iraq-Syria border set with Deir Ezzour going to latter 1983 Jordan gave Iraq $125 mil line of credit to help Baghdad in Iran-Iraq War 1986 Iran launched Op Karbala 4 attacking Basra Iraq warned beforehand by US intelligence 2004 UK intel did review of its 2002 reporting on Iraq’s WMD and said its assessments were all wrong 2005 IMF approved $685 mil loan for Iraq 2011 Maliki adviser said that Fin Min Issawi suspected of connections to terrorism Sadrists would not go along with his removal 2013 Sheikh Sulaiman said tribes would protect Ramadi pro... more »
Dec. 23: Just a short blog before Xmas....
...because I'm not likely to have time for one on Christmas day. This began with my reading of Saturday's paper. Ghastly at the best of times, this edition isn't even worth burning. All the newspapers of this province are owned by one man - who thinks it is just better all round if we are in complete ignorance of what is happening. If you have a computer, see if you can call up Moncton Times And Transcript or Brunswick News. It's hard to find editorial drivel of this contemptible quality. It opens with a slogan that it offers up to the minute, breaking news. What a moronic stateme... more »
The UAE Is Paying Ex-U.S. Intelligence Officers To Professionalize Their Intelligence Agencies
Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis meeting with the United Arab Emirates' Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi, UAE in February 2017. *Foreign Policy*: *Deep Pockets, Deep Cover: The UAE Is Paying Ex-CIA Officers to Build a Spy Empire in the Gulf* *They hired Americans to professionalize their intelligence service. But how far can former U.S. spies go? * Not far from the northeastern Zayed Port in Abu Dhabi, in a typical modern Gulf villa framed on one side by an elegant swimming pool, Westerners are teaching Emiratis the tools of modern spycraft. The da... more »
Writing by the seat of my pants
I think I'm developing in new ways as a writer. Part of that, I suspect, is that I'm getting fitter and stronger, as a result of the strength training that Miss D. and I are doing together. My pain level (from my disabling injury back in 2004) has not changed, but I suspect I'm getting mentally tougher as well as physically, and thus able to tolerate it better. A few weeks ago, I was working on my (carefully plotted out) manuscript for the sixth book in my Maxwell Saga. It wasn't going very well, and I was getting frustrated; so I decided to try something that had worked for me ... more »
I Wonder If There Are Still Any Gays And Lesbians Who Support Trump
This week Roy Moore, who still refuses to concede defeat in the Alabama Senate race, attacked Doug Jones' gay son, Carson for... being gay. (Moore's own son is a serial felon who has been repeatedly arrested for a variety of crimes.) Carson Jones is a zookeeper in Denver who specializes in taking care of elephants. Trump's detestable sons shoot elephants for fun. And Trump's Attorney General, Jeff Sessions, and vice president, Mike Pence, where named by the advocate this week as two of the three worst homophobes of 2017. And yet... among all the other blatant and absurd lies Trump... more »
Did Alabama State Police Arrest 3 Poll Workers in Birmingham?
Reports that poll workers in Birmingham were arrested for voter fraud in connection with the special Alabama Senate election are fake news.
Meeting report with State Rep sponsoring $60 million tax subsidy for General Dynamics
By Mary Beth Sullivan It has been reported in newspapers that State Representative Jennifer DeChant is submitting a bill in this legislative season to provide a $60 million tax subsidy to BIW over the next 20 years. This Bill would extend Maine's Shipbuilding Facilities Credit which has delivered BIW an annual $3.5 million subsidy since the 1990s. When she received correspondences opposing this bill, she invited people to her home for a meeting to discuss this bill. She then changed the venue to the Bath Library, then changed it again to City Hall. The meeting took place on Th... more »
Emperor Trump has a new coin designed in his honor.
Courtesy of WaPo: *For two decades, the commander in chief has doled out distinguished-looking coins as personal mementos. Now, the presidential “challenge coin” has undergone a Trumpian transformation. * *The presidential seal has been replaced by an eagle bearing President Trump’s signature. The eagle’s head faces right, not left, as on the seal. The 13 arrows representing the original states have disappeared. And the national motto, “E pluribus unum” — a Latin phrase that means “Out of many, one” — is gone. * *Instead, both sides of the coin feature Trump’s campaign slogan, “Ma... more »
Saudi Prince Told That He Must Pay $6 Billion To Be Freed From Jail
Saudi Prince Al-Waleed bin Talal [Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Alsaud/Facebook] *Daily Mai: **Saudi authorities tell jailed Saudi Prince al-Waleed bin Talal he'll have to pay at least $6BN for his freedom after arrest in anti-corruption round-up* * Al-Waleed among dozens of royals detained in Riyadh's Ritz-Carlton last month * The prince, who is accused of corruption, is the 57th-richest person in the world * Royal could have to break up part of his $9bn conglomerate to pay for his release Saudi authorities want at least $6billion from jailed Saudi Prince al-Waleed bin Talal to secur... more »
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