Friday, June 01, 2018

1 June - Blogs I'm Following 1 of 2

8:33 pm MDT

Pentagon: 500 Civilians Killed In U.S. Military Operations In 2017

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 13 minutes ago
*CNN:* *Pentagon says nearly 500 civilians killed in US military operations in Trump's first year* Washington (CNN)The Pentagon has told Congress it estimates that nearly 500 civilians were killed as a result of US military actions in the first year of the Trump administration. "(The Department of Defense) assesses that there are credible reports of approximately 499 civilians killed and approximately 169 civilians injured during 2017" as a result of military operations in Iraq and Syria targeting ISIS, operations in Afghanistan targeting the Taliban and ISIS, and operations in Y... more »

Russia, China to develop strategic energy alliance

Frank Sellers at The Duran - 25 minutes ago
Meanwhile, the US is levying $50 worth of tariffs on China and engaging in threatening postures More The post Russia, China to develop strategic energy alliance appeared first on The Duran.

Pentagon official issues veiled military threat to China

Frank Sellers at The Duran - 25 minutes ago
China's policy in the area is in diametrical opposition to that of Washington More The post Pentagon official issues veiled military threat to China appeared first on The Duran.

China, Germany agree on commitment to multilateralism, opposition to trade protectionism

Frank Sellers at The Duran - 25 minutes ago
The Chinese and Germans perceive tariffs as a threat to the rules based trade regime More The post China, Germany agree on commitment to multilateralism, opposition to trade protectionism appeared first on The Duran.

Escaping the plantation

Norma at Collecting My Thoughts - 54 minutes ago
Yesterday a caller to the Mike Gallagher show, nationally syndicated conservative taker, identified herself as a black woman and former Democrat. She said when she was 18 and ready to vote her father told her to vote Democrat, and she did for 28 years, but then started to study politics and history, and became a Trump supporter in 2016 (which means she voted for Obama twice). Yes, her family and friends give her a hard time and call her names. She said that Democrats use blacks for their votes and then lose interest in them after the election. Although I'm not sure which issue she ... more »

Good-bye Biblio

Norma at Collecting My Thoughts - 54 minutes ago
Yesterday I say good-bye to my Biblio collection, mailing 27 issues to Onalaska, WI. She could be a collector, or a picker for a used book/magazine site, but I hope she enjoys them. I still have the 6 issues of "Counter," for the really hardcore. The boxful weighed about 14 pounds so I went to the post office, and learned that because magazines contain advertising, they can’t go media rate and it would cost over $25. So I went across the street to UPS and sent them for $15.

New genetic study

Norma at Collecting My Thoughts - 54 minutes ago
This is going to overturn everything I was taught in school since the 1940s. 7.6 billion people, 500 million house sparrows, or 100,000 sandpipers, genetic diversity "is about the same." Nine out of 10 species on Earth today, including humans, came into being 100,000 to 200,000 years ago. Of course, I didn't believe in evolution even before I was a Christian, and even before I could read the Bible! I looked at the charts and graphs and said to self: This is the dumbest thing I've ever heard. I may have been 7 years old but I knew I hadn't come from monkeys or slime mold. http://w... more »

Barr-Bee

Norma at Collecting My Thoughts - 54 minutes ago
[image: image] Both women are leftists who insulted women. Barr ran for president twice on extreme left tickets, once with Cindy Sheehan. Single payer health insurance and free college were her talking points. Sound familiar? Her most recent show had a lot of diversity in the cast, including lesbian Gilbert, and among the fictional characters--a waitress, life coach, veteran, surrogate. I imagine they were handpicked by her. I have no idea what Bee's good points are other than a dirty mouth. Samantha Bee's attack on Ivanka Trump was scripted, approved, vetted, taped, approv... more »

The D’Souza Pardon

Norma at Collecting My Thoughts - 54 minutes ago
Washington Post doesn't like Trump's pardons. Of course not. For Dinesh D'Souza it shows how a raging Obama went after a film maker/author who exposed his private thoughts/parts/pieces. D'Souza was convicted under an obscure campaign law that no one had ever been found guilty of. Good job--no scandals in that administration--except attacking an immigrant and stealing his American dream, his income, his right to vote. Democrat social justice warriors have sympathy for MS-13 , Iranian bundlers, or even bank CEOs who have ruined thousands of their customers, but not a man who gave mo... more »

Russian President Vladimir Putin Signals That He Wants Détente With The West

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 1 hour ago
Russian President Vladimir Putin at the St Petersburg International Economic Forum on May 25, 2018. Photo: Reuters/Sergei Bobylev/TASS *M.K. Bhadrakumar, Asia Times:* *Russia censures Iran, expects Israel to help restore ties with US* *Vladimir Putin surprised many at the event known as Russia’s Davos with his comments on the Iran nuclear deal and Russia's relations with the US * The annual meeting of the St Petersburg International Economic Forum – dubbed as “Russia’s Davos” – on May 25, which traditionally promotes foreign investment in the Russian economy, ended this time around... more »

Okinawa: Why World War II's Last Great Battle Was Hell on Earth

Warfare History Network at The National Interest - 1 hour ago
*Warfare History Network* *Security, Asia* And why so many people lost their lives. To the Americans, Okinawa represented a major stepping-stone toward the final defeat of the Japanese Empire. The successful occupation of the island by American forces would provide air bases and naval facilities that would allow for attacks on the Home Islands themselves. To the Japanese, the surrender of a base so close to the heart of the empire would seriously compromise the ability of their armed forces to defend the homeland. Capture of the island would also interdict the critical flow of pe... more »

Russia's Tu-95 Bomber Is Really Old (But It Can Strike with Lots of Deadly Missiles)

Charlie Gao at The National Interest - 1 hour ago
*Charlie Gao* *Security, Europe* Moscow's B-52? The Tu-95 is one of the oldest designs in active service in the Russian Air Force. Driven by eight contra-rotating turboprop engines, it is the only propeller-powered bomber that remains in service today. It shows no signs of leaving service either, with the Russian Air Force rolling out the Tu-95MSM modernization that adds significant capability to the Tu-95, far beyond its original role of dropping unguided bombs. The current backbone of the Russian strategic bomber force is the Tu-95MS. While the main purpose of the Tu-95MS var... more »

Welcome to the U.S.-China War of 2030

Robert Farley at The National Interest - 1 hour ago
*Robert Farley* *Security, Asia* Ending the Sino-American War of 2030 would require careful diplomacy, lest the war become only the first stage of a confrontation that could last for the remainder of the century. The People’s Republic of China (PRC) and the United States appear ready to plunge off the precipice of a trade war. This war could have far-ranging effects on the economies of both countries, as well as the future of the global economic order. But as of yet, it does not seem likely to involve the flight of actual bombs and missiles. While the U.S. and China have a varie... more »

Japan Wants Aircraft Carriers Armed with F-35s (And It Could Happen Fast)

Zachary Keck at The National Interest - 1 hour ago
*Zachary Keck* *Security, Asia* By modifying some of its top ships. Japan’s ruling party is officially calling for Tokyo to return to the aircraft carrier business. On May 25, the Liberal Democratic Party—the party of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe—finalized proposals calling for the country to refit its massive helicopter destroyers so that they can carry fixed-wing aircraft, according to a number of local Japanese news outlets. “The party plans to submit the proposals to the government by the end of this month at the earliest, hoping that they will be reflected in the country’s def...more »

The Glock 19X: The Gun the Army Rejected Can Now Be Yours

Kyle Mizokami at The National Interest - 1 hour ago
*Kyle Mizokami* *Security, Americas* Or is it a big waste of time? Austrian Gunmaker Glock’s latest handgun is actually two existing handguns in one. The Glock 19X, meant to capture the U.S. Army’s Modular Handgun System contract, is actually a melding of the original Glock 17 and the compact Glock 19 resulting in a unique handgun configuration that very well could have become the next service weapon of the U.S. Armed Forces. Although the G19X lost out that distinction to the Sig Sauer P320 the pistol is available on the commercial market. The U.S. Army’s XM17 Modular Handgun Sy... more »

Interview: Will Russia Move to the Left?

Paul J. Saunders at The National Interest - 1 hour ago
*Paul J. Saunders* *Security, Eurasia* [image: Red Square. Wikipedia] Paul Saunders interviews Russian leading journalist Maksim Shevchenko. *Editor’s Note:** Paul J. Saunders, associate publisher of the *National Interest*, interviewed Maksim Shevchenko, a former newspaper editor and television personality who is a prominent left-wing candidate for the post of Moscow mayor.* *Q*: Thank you again for taking the time to talk to our readers. While you are among the leading candidates to compete for the position of Moscow mayor on behalf of the United Left opposition, most American... more »

History Tells Us North Korea Will Never Give Up Its Nuclear Weapons

James Holmes at The National Interest - 1 hour ago
*James Holmes* *Security, Asia* [image: North Korean soldiers salute in a military vehicle carrying a missile during a parade to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the signing of a truce in the 1950-1953 Korean War, at Kim Il-sung Square in Pyongyang July 27, 2013. REUTERS/Jason Lee] Nuclear powers seldom relinquish their arms. Nor should we expect them to. That insight should guide U.S. strategy going forward. Will North Korean despot Kim Jong-Un give up his nuclear weapons in negotiations with President Donald Trump? Says the Magic 8 Ball: Outlook not so good. Dispute the Ma... more »

Russian ambassador confirms ‘agreement’ between Russia, Israel on Syria

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 1 hour ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:30 A.M.) – The Russian Ambassador to the United Nations, Vasily Nebenzya, told journalists on Friday that there is an agreement between his nation and Israel regarding the removal of Iranian forces from the Syrian-Israeli border. “I can’t respond whether the agreement is already being implemented on the ground, but the sides involved […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Trump administration vetoes Palestinian ‘protection’ resolution at UNSC (video)

News Desk at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 1 hour ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (1:10 A.M.) – The United States vetoed a Kuwait-drafted resolution at the United Nations (UN) Security Council which requested “international protection” for Palestinian civilians, in a session from New York on Friday. It was also the only country to back its own measure condemning Hamas for the recent violence in the Gaza Strip. […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Newest Russian ship armed with Kalibr cruise missiles to go on mission in Mediterranean

News Desk at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 1 hour ago
Newest small-size missile ship Vyshniy Volochok that Russia’s Black Sea Fleet has entered in its tables of equipment will leave for a mission in the Mediterranean shortly where it will join the Russian Mediterranean Squadron, the Chief of Staff of the Black Sea Fleet, Rear Admiral Viktor Liin told reporters on Friday. “The Vyshniy Volochok […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

ISIS launches night assault west of Mayadeen City as Syrian troops prepare for new offensive

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 1 hour ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:45 A.M.) – The Islamic State (ISIS) launched a night assault in the western countryside of the Deir Ezzor Governorate, the National Defense Forces (NDF) reported. According to the NDF report, the Islamic State attacked the Syrian Arab Army’s positions in the eastern part of the Badiya Al-Sham region, which is located within […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Nikki Haley declares UN as ‘biased against Israel’ before vetoing Gaza resolution

News Desk at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 1 hour ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:15 A.M.) – The U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, issued a statement on Friday that condemned the Security Council’s decision to vote in favor of Kuwait’s resolution that condemns Israel for the violence in the Gaza Strip. “With its votes today, the UN Security Council majority that it was willing […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Breaking: Massive number of Syrian, Iranian-backed forces head to east Syria for ISIS offensive

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 1 hour ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (12:00 A.M.) – A large number of Iranian-backed forces and Syrian Arab Army (SAA) personnel have arrived in the western countryside of the Deir Ezzor Governorate this evening, as they prepare for a major operation to clear the Badiya Al-Sham region in the vast Syrian Desert. According to a Syrian military source in […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

International Waters: Royal Navy tracks Russian ship in English Channel (video)

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 1 hour ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:30 P.M.) – A British Royal Navy ship and helicopter were seen shadowing a Russian vessel through the English Channel on Friday. According to local media, HMS Diamond and a Wildcat helicopter from 815 Naval Air Squadron at RNAS Yeovilton accompanied the Russian underwater reconnaissance ship Yantar through British waters. The Royal Navy will […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Tonight's Movie Is 'Puppet on a Chain '

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 2 hours ago
From* Wikipedia*: Puppet on a Chain is a 1971 British thriller film directed by Geoffrey Reeve and starring Sven-Bertil Taube, Barbara Parkins and Alexander Knox. It is based on the novel Puppet on a Chain by Alistair MacLean. The story was Maclean's 14th and the seventh film adaption of a Maclean novel. The film's signature boat chase (8 minutes of screen time) along the canals of Amsterdam reportedly inspired the boat chase in the James Bond movie Live and Let Die two years later and in the 1988 thriller Amsterdamned, which would also feature a long canal boat chase.

Growing U.S. Economy Continues to Sizzle!

C. B. Thorington at A Divided World - 2 hours ago
Time evolution of the Atlanta Federal Reserve’s GDPNow estimate for Q2 GDP growth, as of May 31, 2018. Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta / GDPNow The plot above emphasizes again just how much our growing U.S. economy is sizzling. The Atlanta Fed’s GDPNow statistic is the best estimate the Fed has of how much GDP […] The post Growing U.S. Economy Continues to Sizzle! appeared first on A Divided World.

Middle Finger Symphony Theater

Diogenes Sarcastica™ at Diogenes' Middle Finger - 2 hours ago
** No Tuxedos Required * * Brought To You By *BLUESJUNKY*: Honorary Chair of Music - Middle Finger Symphony Music Director

Could a Blue Whale’s Gas Bubble Contain a Horse?

Alex Kasprak at Snopes.com - 2 hours ago
This story, like the feeding behavior of the animal in question, is a deep dive.

Kaniela Saito Ing Battles Another Republican Pretending To Be A Democrat, Beth Fukumoto

DownWithTyranny at DownWithTyranny! - 2 hours ago
Trying to figure out how someone is going to perform in Congress is the single most important factor in figuring out which candidate to support in a contested election. And as we saw earlier today, one of the easiest ways is to examine the voting records and leadership records of state legislators trying to make the jump. The best legislator in the state of Hawaii, Kaniela Saito Ing, is running for Congress in the Honolulu-based district being given up by Colleen Hanabusa. His opponents are from the Republican wing of the Democratic Party... except one. Until recently Beth Fukumot... more »

Environmental Groups Sue Trump Administration For Abandoning Investigation into Dangerous Pesticides

Derrick Broze at Activist Post - 2 hours ago
By Derrick Broze The Trump Administration and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are facing three new lawsuits regarding recently amended practices regarding the use of... more »

Musical interlude

Greg Fingas at Accidental Deliberations - 2 hours ago
Tom Cochrane - I Wish You Well

Scientific Method

Louis Hissink at Scientific Method – Louis Hissink's Crazy World - 3 hours ago
The scientific method is restricted to testing the known physical reality in the here and now. Prophesy is restricted to foretelling the future which is always tomorrow and hence the unknown. Climate change forecasting is prophesy, not science.

Atmospheric Rivers ?

Louis Hissink at Scientific Method – Louis Hissink's Crazy World - 3 hours ago
My latest copy of the IEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Society’s Newsletter (vol. 5, no. 6) notes that climate change may lead to bigger atrmospheric rivers. Huh? From the article: Atmospheric rivers are long, narrow jets of air that carry … Continue reading →

Commentaries, Analysis, And Editorials -- June 1, 2018

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 3 hours ago
*Doug Palmer, Politico:* *Trump’s global trade war* ‘Today is a bad day for world trade,’ says Cecilia Malmström, the European trade commissioner. Donald Trump’s move to slap penalties on imports from U.S. allies including the EU is moving the country to the brink of a global trade war — with U.S. consumers, farmers and manufacturers caught in the middle — as the White House tries to wrest concessions from reluctant trading partners. The Trump administration will impose new duties on steel and aluminum imports from the European Union, Canada and Mexico after failing to reach deal... more »

Thousands of Swedes Sign Up to Have Microchips Implanted Under Their Skin

Nick Meyer at AltHealthWorks.com - 3 hours ago
When it comes to the digital world, it’s no secret that things are changing faster than ever before. More than 2.5 quintillion bytes of data is now being put out onto the Internet every single day, and according to Forbes Magazine over 90 percent of all data in the world was generated in the past two years alone. We are being inundated with data from all angles, and it’s a growing trend with no signs of stopping. There is, however, one key place where most people draw the line, and that is on the subject of human microchipping. Unfortunately for those who prefer living microchip... more »

An “Unstoppable Behemoth That Will Harm Farmers and Keep Americans in the Dark:” Bernie Sanders Speaks Out Against Pending Bayer-Monsanto Merger

Nick Meyer at AltHealthWorks.com - 3 hours ago
As far as politicians go, there are few who have fought more diligently or consistently for the protection of our natural and non-GMO food supply than former presidential candidate Bernie Sanders. After all, it was Sanders who stood before Congress in 1994 and lambasted the government’s favoritism for the Monsanto Company over one of its most controversial products, recombinant bovine growth hormone. Since then, Sanders has continued to fight the good fight, even helping to pass a GMO labeling bill in Vermont that would have become the national standard had the controversial DAR... more »

Sustainable Pulse Interview: Leah Segedie on ‘Green Enough’ Her Bestseller on Toxic Chemicals

Sustainable Pulse at Sustainable Pulse - 3 hours ago
Sustainable Pulse are excited to interview Leah Segedie, Founder of Mamavation and Author of the #1 new release on Amazon – Green Enough – about toxic chemicals in our food and in our home and blogging for a better world. What made you write a book that concentrates on the hidden toxic chemicals in our […] The post Sustainable Pulse Interview: Leah Segedie on ‘Green Enough’ Her Bestseller on Toxic Chemicals appeared first on Sustainable Pulse.

Empathy and compassion

Bruce K. Gagnon at Organizing Notes - 3 hours ago
*Apologies for the misspelling of Yugoslavia. I didn't make this photo but think the content is very important.* *Empathy and compassion* Two words sadly with fewer practitioners during this dog eat dog time I admit I'm in the US where these values are often forgotten and trampled during our mad rush for the gold But I see that in some lands those words still have meaning are honored we need those folks more than ever... bless you all I've just seen one person shift from lacking empathy to embracing it humbling to watch the sparks of light Hope lives inside the shift each of us ... more »

The value of cash on hand is proved yet again

Peter at Bayou Renaissance Man - 3 hours ago
I've written before about the need to have a "cash stash" for emergencies. As far as I'm concerned, that also means carrying with me enough cash for a day-to-day emergency like paying in cash for something I'm buying, in case the power goes out and card machines stop working. I try to keep a couple of hundred dollars in my wallet, just in case. It looks as if that would come in very handy across Europe right now. Millions of people have been left unable to pay for goods and services in shops, petrol stations and railway stations across Britain and Europe after an unprecedented cr... more »

Why the Only Answer is to Break Up the Biggest Wall Street Banks

Robert Reich - 3 hours ago
On Wednesday, Federal bank regulators proposed to allow Wall Street more freedom to make riskier... more »

World News Briefs -- June 1, 2018 (Evening Edition)

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 4 hours ago
President Donald Trump said on Friday an unprecedented nuclear arms summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un that the United States pulled out of will now go ahead as scheduled on June 12 in Singapore, adding another twist to a high-stakes diplomatic dance. Reuters *Politico:* *Trump says Kim meeting is back on: ‘We’re getting along’* The announcement came after the president hosted North Korea’s No. 2 in the Oval Office on Friday. President Donald Trump held an extraordinary Oval Office meeting with Kim Jong Un’s deputy on Friday, after which he snapped a chummy photo with the ... more »

Cartel Charges Leveled Against Deutsche Bank and Others Over Australian Bank Deal

Alex Kasprak at Snopes.com - 4 hours ago
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission will prosecute ANZ, Deutsche Bank, and Citigroup on criminal cartel charges stemming from a 2015 deal.

"The Cruelest Joke Of All..."

noreply@blogger.com (Coyote Prime) at Running 'Cause I Can't Fly - 4 hours ago
"The smallest decisions made had such profound repercussions. One ten-minute wait could save a life… or end it. One wrong turn down the right street or one seemingly unimportant conversation, and everything was changed. It wasn't right that each lifetime was defined, ruined, ended, and made by such seemingly innocuous details. A major life-threatening event should come with a flashing warning sign that either said ABANDON ALL HOPE or SAFETY AHEAD. It was the cruelest joke of all that no one could see the most vicious curves until they were over the edge, falling into the abyss belo... more »

"Notes on Heartache and Chaos"

noreply@blogger.com (Coyote Prime) at Running 'Cause I Can't Fly - 4 hours ago
*"Notes on Heartache and Chaos"* by Jim Kunstler "I was interviewing a couple of homesteaders on an island north of Seattle at twilight last night when they noticed that the twelve-year-old family dog, name of Lacy, had not come home for dinner as ever and always at that hour. A search ensued and they soon found her dead in the meadow a hundred feet behind the house with two big puncture wounds in her body. Nobody had heard a gunshot. We’d just been talking inside and a nearby window was open. They suspect the dog met up with a black-tailed deer buck out there and was gored to deat... more »

Trump Says Summit With Kim Jong-un Will Go On

Warren Mass at rss - 4 hours ago
[image: trump-says-summit-with-kim-jong-un-will-go-on] President Trump will be meeting North Korea’s leader Kim Jong-un in Singapore on June 12, as originally planned.

Pope Francis to Meet With Big Oil Executives on Climate Change, Ignoring More Important Topics

James Murphy at rss - 4 hours ago
[image: pope-francis-to-meet-with-big-oil-executives-on-climate-change-ignoring-more-important-topics] As the pontiff prepares to meet with big oil executives to discuss so-called climate change, traditional Catholics must wonder what to think of Pope Francis and his social-justice warrior, Earth-worshipping ways.

Leftist Nicaraguan Tyrant Meets Uprising With Deadly Force

Alex Newman at rss - 4 hours ago
[image: leftist-nicaraguan-tyrant-meets-uprising-with-deadly-force] Nicaragua's totalitarian-minded leftist government, led by Sandinista Daniel Ortega, has responded to a growing uprising against the regime by murdering journalists, brutalizing and slaughtering protesters, and terrorizing the public. According to news reports and human-rights activists, the “former” Marxist mass-murderer is also unleashing savage gangs to dispense violence on his behalf and quash the opposition. Dozens have died already. And unless Ortega decides to relinquish power peacefully, analysts expect the ... more »

Illinois Ratifies Equal Rights Amendment 36 Years After Deadline

Christian Gomez at rss - 4 hours ago
[image: illinois-ratifies-equal-rights-amendment-36-years-after-deadline] The Illinois Legislature recently ratified the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) — reigniting discussion about its potential addition to the Constitution 36 years after the passage of the final deadline to ratify the proposed amendment.

Robust Jobs Report Erases Concerns About a Slowdown

Bob Adelmann at rss - 4 hours ago
[image: robust-jobs-report-erases-concerns-about-a-slowdown] The improving U.S. economy appears to be having another ameliorative effect: Talk of the "blue wave" in the Novmber elections has all but disappeared.

Law and the Political Economy of Technology

Guest Blogger at Balkinization - 4 hours ago
Amy Kapczynski In April, Jack Balkin, Yochai Benkler and I convened a workshop on the law and political economy of technology at Yale Law School. Participants drafted thought papers, which we spent the better part of two days discussing. In the coming weeks, many participants will post revised papers or reflections in a series of posts that will be featured on these pages and cross-posted at Balkinization. In convening the conference, we aimed to bring a political economy lens to a domain of extraordinary importance to our lives today. Robots, gig-economy platforms, surveillanc... more »

Ex-Mossad Chief: Prime Minister Netanyahu Ordered Mossad And The Military To Prepare For An Attack On Iran In 2011

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 4 hours ago
PM Netanyahu (C), outgoing Mossad director Tamir Pardo (R) and incoming director Yossi Cohen . (Kobi Gideon/GPO) *Haaretz*: *Ex-Mossad Chief Says He Questioned Legality of Netanyahu's Order to Prepare Iran Strike* Tamir Pardo divulged info during TV interview, saying he consulted with previous Mossad chiefs, legal advisers about 'who is authorized to give the order to go to war'. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered the Mossad and the military to prepare for an attack on Iran in 2011, a former spy chief has revealed. Tamir Pardo, the Mossad’s chief at the time, also disclosed... more »

Moscow Details Subversive NGO Activities in Russia and Around the World

Frank Sellers, The Duran – It’s no secret that the CIA and some wealthy business magnates have been funding and using Non Governmental Organizations to alter the political landscapes inside nations all around the world, whether through meddling in elections or through plotting coups. A detailed report has come out the Russian Parliament about how... (read more)

The New OLC Opinion on Syria Brings Obama Legal Rationales Out of the Shadows

jgoldsmith at Lawfare - 5 hours ago
(Photo: Matthew Kahn) There has been some heavy breathing in reaction to Steven Engel’s Office of Legal Counsel opinion released today in support of President Trump’s April 13, 2018 airstrikes in Syria. The opinion does indeed articulate an extraordinarily broad conception of the president’s authority to use military force abroad through air strikes without congressional authorization. But the opinion is in no way surprising. It follows straightforwardly from Obama-era legal opinions (including one we did not know about until today), which themselves built on earlier opinions. Th... more »

El acuerdo comercial con Japón se hizo sin reuniones con los sindicatos europeos

bilaterals.org - 5 hours ago
01-Jun-2018 ¿Sabía usted que el año que viene debe entrar en vigor un acuerdo comercial que abarcará una cuarta parte del PIB mundial? El JEFTA, aprobado a finales de año, fue redactado sin que la Comisión Europea recibiera a un solo sindicato u organización de pequeñas y medianas empresas.

Venezuela: $ 10,6 millardos adeuda el gobierno por procesos arbitrales ante el Ciadi

bilaterals.org - 5 hours ago
01-Jun-2018 Los inversionistas no confían en las condiciones que ofrecen las autoridades para hacer negocios en el país debido a que se irrespeta el derecho a la propiedad privada, dijo la investigadora Fanny Migliore

España quiere que el TJUE determine si la Carta de la Energía es aplicable en arbitrajes por las renovables

bilaterals.org - 5 hours ago
01-Jun-2018 Tras la pérdida por parte de España de varias demandas de arbitraje de inversiones sobre las reformas normativas de las energías renovables, España quiere que el Tribunal de Justicia Europeo (TJUE) determine si la cláusula de arbitraje invocando el Tratado de la Carta de la Energía es inválida en virtud de la sentencia en el caso Achmea.

Comisaria europea de Comercio dice que acuerdo con Mercosur "está cerca"

bilaterals.org - 5 hours ago
01-Jun-2018 Cecilia Malmström aseguró que el diálogo progresó mucho en el último año, aunque todavía falta negociar sobre vehículos, reglas de origen, agricultura y servicios. En junio retoman las negociaciones.

Russian Photographer Gets An Inside Look At One Of North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un's Homes

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 5 hours ago
Kim Jong-un's house: A Russian photojournalist was given access to one of the North Korean dictator's lavish homes at an undisclosed location near Pyongyang. According to the tyrant's former bodyguard Lee Young-kuk, the North Korean leader keeps at least eight separate palaces outside the capital. Although Kim has several palaces, pictures of them are hard to come by because the North Korean government has put in place tight security measures to make sure very few photographs exist *Daily Mail*: *Prim Jong-un! North Korean dictator's VERY tidy Pyongyang residence is revealed in nev... more »

Did Melania Trump Spell ‘HELP’ in a Tweet?

Arturo Garcia at Snopes.com - 5 hours ago
An artist's satirical post about the First Lady circulated online, eventually spreading without his name attached to the joke.

President Trump Says He Did Not Like Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov Meeting With North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un Yesterday

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 5 hours ago
North Korean envoy Kim Yong Chol talks with US President Donald Trump. © Leah Millis / Reuters *RT:* *Trump says he ‘did not like’ meeting between North Korean leader & Russian foreign minister * US President Donald Trump said he didn't like that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov met with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un earlier this week. The US leader was speaking to journalists following his own meeting with the North Korean senior official in the White House. During the meeting with the Russian minister, Kim Jong-un once again reaffirmed Pyongyang’s commitment to a compl... more »

Don’t drink the bottled waters that contain dangerous microplastics

Erin Elizabeth at Health Nut News - 5 hours ago
By Dr. Mercola Plastic has become an incredibly harmful convenience, now threatening environmental and human health alike, and in more ways than one. With Earth Day being tomorrow, there is no better time to analyze the impact bottled water has had on our planet. There’s the issue of bulk plastics in our landfills, where it […] The post Don’t drink the bottled waters that contain dangerous microplastics appeared first on Health Nut News.

The FBI warns that car hacking is a real risk

Erin Elizabeth at Health Nut News - 5 hours ago
(Editor’s Note: This story isn’t new, it’s from 2016. However, the threat is real. Read on.) In case you hadn’t yet heard, it is possible to remotely kill the transmition (as well as take over the driving of or use of the breaks) on a Jeep Cherokee. And now that the FBI knows they are […] The post The FBI warns that car hacking is a real risk appeared first on Health Nut News.

Scientists genetically engineer yeast to make THC, will the whole thing go to pot?

Erin Elizabeth at Health Nut News - 5 hours ago
Written by: Digital Trends (Note from Erin: We do not think genetically engineering this is a good idea but, no doubt, the government does. We’d also like to draw attention to this article, “The Complete Guide to Medical Marijuana for Seniors,” as it could be a helpful resource to many.) Medical marijuana is causing a stir as patients […] The post Scientists genetically engineer yeast to make THC, will the whole thing go to pot? appeared first on Health Nut News.

Pat Buchanan: Trump's doctrine for Singapore, Korea and beyond

arclein at Terra Forming Terra - 5 hours ago
Nice analysis but flawed. What is been negotiated is the unification of the Koreas over a ten year timetable. This is absolutely necessary simply because the North's economy is impossible to sustain if it ever was. The Nuclear program will act as a guarantor to the completion of that time table after which it will simply be absorbed into the Unified Korea. Once you understand that, it is all about pensions for the boys and some oriental face saving of course as we welcome our new best friend. I simply see no sticking points there. In fact all that face saving is in full s... more »

Ports, trade and jobs

Keith at musingsofanoldfart - 5 hours ago
In Steven Solomon’s book “Water: the Epic Struggle for Power, Wealth and Civilization” he notes two of the greatest water decisions that helped make America a global power are the building of the Erie Canal and Panama Canal. Both gave … Continue reading →

Breaking: Houthis declares Abu Dhabi military target amid recent advances by UAE forces on Yemeni port

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 5 hours ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:15 P.M.) – The official media wing for the Houthi forces issued a statement, tonight, declaring the Emirati (UAE) city of Abu Dhabi a military target. This announcement comes amid the latest advance by the UAE-backed Southern Resistance forces on the Hodeideh Port in western Yemen. If the Hodeideh Port falls to the […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

ISIS takes advantage of upcoming Syrian Army offensive in Daraa by launching their own attack

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 5 hours ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:05 P.M.) – The Islamic State (ISIS) has taken advantage of the upcoming Syrian Arab Army (SAA) offensive by launching their own attack against the rebel forces in western Dara’a. According to pro-opposition activists in the Dara’a Governorate, the Islamic State stormed the Free Syrian Army’s (FSA) positions inside the Yarmouk Basin region […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Mysterious assassinations of jihadist commanders continue in Idlib

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 5 hours ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (11:00 P.M.) – Another high ranking jihadist official has been killed in northern Syria by unknown assailants, local activists reported via social media tonight. The assassination occurred on Friday, when an unknown assailant opened fire on the Shari’ah official of Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham in the southeastern countryside of the Idlib Governorate. The Shari’ah […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Syrian Army strikes Islamist rebel positions near historical city in southeast Daraa

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 5 hours ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (10:40 P.M.) – For the first time in several weeks, the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) has targeted the Islamist rebels near the historical city of Busra Al-Sham in southeastern Dara’a. According to a military report, the Syrian Arab Army’s 5th Armored Division repeatedly pounded Hay’at Tahrir Al-Sham’s positions around Busra Al-Sham, scoring direct […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Saudi Arabia allegedly threatens military action against Qatar over potential S-400 sale: Le Monde

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 5 hours ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (10:10 P.M.) – Saudi Arabia has allegedly threatened to take military action against Qatar in response to reports that the small Gulf nation is preparing to purchase the Russian-made S-400 air defense system, the French publication Le Monde claimed on Friday. Citing information obtained by a diplomatic source, Le Monde alleged that the […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

UAE aims to strengthen ties, military cooperation with Russia (video)

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 5 hours ago
The United Arab Emirates’ Minister for Foreign Affairs Anwar bin Mohammed Gargash said that the Emirati leadership was seeking to increase cooperation with Russia, during an interview given in Moscow on Friday. The UAE official confirmed that future plans include increasing investment in Russia and improving cooperation in the military sector as a means of […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Iraqi troops officially take control of Nineveh-Syria border: commander

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 5 hours ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (8:20 P.M.) – An Iraqi military commander told BasNews on Friday that their armed forces have officially entered three border-towns in western Nineveh in a bid to fully secure the Syrian border. Hamad Al-Namis of the Nineveh Police told BasNews that the Iraqi military is extending its control from the Sinjar Desert to […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Syrian Army uncovers another large weapons cache in southern Hama

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 5 hours ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (8:10 P.M.) – The Syrian Arab Army (SAA) uncovered a large weapons cache inside the southern countryside of the Hama Governorate this week. According to a military report, the Syrian Army uncovered this weapons cache while combing through the southern Hama town of ‘Aqrab. Inside this weapons cache was a large quantity of […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Israel Execute A 21 year Old Woman Who Was A Medical Volunteer

Robert Inlakesh at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 5 hours ago
DAMASCUS, SYRIA (7:58 P.M)- A young Palestinian woman has reportedly been murdered by Israeli Regime Forces in the Gaza Strip whilst volunteering as a paramedic. Twenty-One year old, Razan Al-Najjar, was today executed by Israeli Snipers whilst volunteering in Awda Camp, in Khuza’a (Khan Younis), where peaceful demonstrations were taking place. Razan Al-Najjar was interviewed […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Israeli Army mobilizes around Gaza as March of Return prepares new protests

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 5 hours ago
Ahead of the new waves of Palestinian protests on the border between the Gaza Strip and Israel, a senior official of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF), cited by Haaretz, has stated that their protocol along the fence on the Gaza border remains the same as during the “March of Return” clashes. He said the IDF […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Russian military deploys to southern Hama town (video)

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 5 hours ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (7:45 P.M.) – The Russian military police have deployed to the southern Hama town of Qantarah this week after it was officially handed to the Syrian Arab Army (SAA) by the Islamist rebels. According to a military report, the Russian forces arrived with a large stockpile of food and medical supplies that they […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

US-backed forces form new brigade inside Idlib

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 5 hours ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (7:30 P.M.) – The US-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) announced on Friday that they are forming a new brigade inside the Idlib Governorate. According to the statement released by the SDF, their command is forming a group called the “Idlib Revolutionaries Brigade.” The new group will be under the commander of Iskander Alaa […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Brand new Russian Kamaz Typhoon vehicles in action (video)

Leith Aboufadel at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 5 hours ago
BEIRUT, LEBANON (7:15 P.M.) – Mine-resistant Kamaz Typhoon vehicles were introduced to active service by taking part in combat drills in the region of Novosibirsk on Thursday. The troops used the Typhoons as evacuation vehicles after getting trapped in hostile territory during a simulated attack. Starting on Friday, June 1, similar drills will be conducted […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

It’s Back On: Trump Will Meet with North Korea’s Kim Jong Un

TNI Staff at The National Interest - 5 hours ago
*TNI Staff* *Security, Asia* [image: U.S. President Trump talks with media afdter meeting with North Korean envoy Kim at the White House in Washington] Jacob Heilbrunn and Harry Kazianis discuss Trump’s decision to meet with the North Korean leader. *Editor's Note*:* In our latest Facebook Live interview (please like our **Facebook page** to see more of these events) Jacob Heilbrunn, editor of the National Interest, and Harry Kazianis, director of defense studies at the Center for the National Interest, **discuss Trump’s decision to meet with Kim Jong-un.* *Harry Kazianis recent... more »

LIVE! SPIRIT RESISTANCE RADIO, DINE' CARE'S Peoples Convention

Brenda Norrell at CENSORED NEWS - 6 hours ago
Dine' CARE's Western Peoples Convention, Dilkon, Navajo Nation, June 1 --3, 2018 http://spiresradio.com Listen! Spirit Resistance Radio Censored News . Photos by Brenda Norrell Dine' CARE founding board members today. Adella Begaye Earl Tulley Lori Goodman Anna Frazier In case you missed it earlier today: Today, founding board members described how Dine' CARE

Native American tribe files action over endangered fish species against federal agencies

White Wolf at White Wolf - 6 hours ago
A federally recognized Native American tribe has filed suit against government agencies over two endangered species of fish in Oregon and California. The Klamath Tribes filed a complaint on May 23 in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California against United States Bureau of Reclamation, the United States Fish & Wildlife Service and the National Marine Fisheries Service over alleged violation of the National Environmental Policy Act. According to the complaint, the plaintiff has filed the suit in an effort to protect two critically endangered species of fish, th... more »

BREAKING NEWS: President Trump Says Singapore Summit With North Korean Leader Kim Jong-un Will Happen On June 12

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 6 hours ago
*Daily Mail*: *BREAKING NEWS: I WILL meet Kim on June 12 says Trump after he rolls out the White House red carpet for North Korean envoy and holds Oval Office talks* * Trump said Friday after receiving a delegation of North Korean officials at the White House that he would attend a June 12 summit with Kim Jong-un * U.S. president said he hopes will result in a nuclear non-proliferation accord with the hermit nation, but the process is likely to extend beyond the initial meeting * 'We'll be in Singapore. It will be a beginning,' President Trump told reporters on the South Lawn after... more »

10 Reasons Why You Need Nutritional Supplements

thedrswolfson at The Drs. Wolfson - 6 hours ago
In a perfect world, we’d meet all our nutritional needs from food. Unfortunately, we don’t live in a perfect world. Due to soil depletion, modern agricultural practices, pesticides, genetically modified foods and environmental toxins, it’s virtually impossible to get adequate nutrition from food alone. Scientific American has an excellent article on a University of Texas […] The post 10 Reasons Why You Need Nutritional Supplements appeared first on The Drs. Wolfson.

Ancient heresies become new again

arclein at Terra Forming Terra - 6 hours ago
First, I want to state that Christianity will replace christianity. It teaches Love and Love must be taught. It does not naturally rise to the forefront of our consciousnesses unless we are somehow taught to think in the correct terms and forms. *What does leap up is instinct and that can be either distaste or attraction.* Without introspection it is impossible to confirm rational validity. I have been shocked at times and subtly influenced many more times. Yet i have the advantage of having met tens of thousands and to have interviewed thousands. That is enough to establ... more »

The Strangest Bedfellows

DownWithTyranny at DownWithTyranny! - 6 hours ago
*-by Skip Kaltenheuser* Anyone who’s had the pleasure of knowing Tom Dunkel knows he’s an adept and fair observer of unique Americana who readily turns phrases that do his subjects justice. His book *Color Blind: The Forgotten Team That Broke Baseball’s Color Line*, about a Depression-era integrated semi-pro baseball team out of North Dakota, is regarded as a top-tier sports book deftly matching cultural insight with entertainment. Catch a chapter here. Tom’s most recent offering, in the May 21 *Washington Post Magazine*, opens cultural veins some of Washington’s shakers and move... more »

FBI's Violation of Rules in Spying on Trump Campaign Further Exposes Deep State

C. Mitchell Shaw at rss - 6 hours ago
[image: fbis-violation-of-rules-in-spying-on-trump-campaign-further-exposes-deep-state] In its zeal to embed a spy into the Trump campaign in 2016, the FBI not only likely broke laws, but also certainly violated its own rules.

Is the Next Cryptocurrency Bubble Around the Corner?

Aaron at Activist Post - 6 hours ago
By Jeff Paul and Aaron Kesel Cryptocurrency has been in a bear market for the last five months. How much longer will it last? When... more »

The Even Older Plan For World Government You’ve Never Heard Of

Activist Post at Activist Post - 6 hours ago
By Truthstream Media This little-known organization is older than the United Nations and The League of Nations. In fact, it appears to be the first... more »

Betsy DeVos Becomes Arne Duncan

Peter Greene at CURMUDGUCATION - 6 hours ago
So here's the story. A Secretary of Education becomes frustrated with Congress because the august body of legislators can't get its act together to reauthorize/rewrite a major piece of law that governs an entire sector of education. So the frustrated secretary digs into their bag of tricks and decides, "Hey, by using my control of certain regulations, I can basically implement the rules that Congress won't." "Oh, now who's a naughty secretary?!" This, of course, is the Arne Duncan story. Congress wouldn't get off its collective keister to fix up the Elementary and Secondary Educati... more »

"How It Really Is"

noreply@blogger.com (Coyote Prime) at Running 'Cause I Can't Fly - 6 hours ago

"Anyone Who Isn't Confused..."

noreply@blogger.com (Coyote Prime) at Running 'Cause I Can't Fly - 6 hours ago
"Anyone who isn't confused really doesn't understand the situation." - Edward R. Murrow

Some EV Thoughts

E.M.Smith at Musings from the Chiefio - 6 hours ago
Some thoughts on the reality of Electric Vehicles. Continue reading →

"The U.S. Economy In Two Words: Asymmetric Gains"

noreply@blogger.com (Coyote Prime) at Running 'Cause I Can't Fly - 7 hours ago
*"The U.S. Economy In Two Words: Asymmetric Gains"* by Charles Hugh Smith "The core dynamic of the U.S. economy in this era is asymmetric gains: the gains in income, wealth and power are increasingly concentrated in the top slice of the economy and society, while the income, wealth and power of the majority stagnate or decline. The Status Quo must paper over this widening gulf with threadbare narratives that no longer match reality: for example, we're an ownership society. We sure are: the vast majority of the nation's productive assets are owned by the top 5%. The U.S. economy ha... more »

Security: Spokane Falls College Newspapers Weren’t Stolen

cmaadmin at Diverse - 7 hours ago
SPOKANE, Wash. – Spokane Falls Community College security has determined hundreds of copies of the student newspaper were not stolen in April, as student journalists suspected. The Spokesman-Review reported recently that about 400 copies of the March 8 issue of the Communicator disappeared from the racks at a rapid pace on April 2 and April […]

Trump Only Notices Mass Surveillance When He is the Victim

Activist Post at Activist Post - 7 hours ago
By Kurt Nimmo From Donald Trump’s perspective, the intelligence operation directed against his presidential campaign is “one of the biggest political scandals in U.S. history.”... more »

How Would You Know That You’re Safely Using Your Cell Phone and Other WiFi Devices If You Haven’t Read the Manuals?

Activist Post at Activist Post - 7 hours ago
By B.N. Frank Many of us are guilty of not reading manuals and safety guidelines for commonly used personal products such as cell phones, cordless... more »

A Beginner’s Guide to the Ketogenic Diet: An Effective Way of Optimizing Your Health

Waking Times at Waking Times - 7 hours ago
*Dr. Mercola* - This guide to the Ketogenic diet will tell you everything you need to know going keto.

Did a Sign for Starbucks Racial Bias Training Single Out White People?

Dan Evon at Snopes.com - 7 hours ago
A sign informing Starbucks customers that stores would be closed in order to "educate white people about their racism" was not created by the coffee chain.

Whole Foods Ditches Long-Awaited GMO Labeling Plans, Will Instead Defer to Federal DARK Act Labels

Nick Meyer at AltHealthWorks.com - 7 hours ago
As one of the pioneers in the organic and natural food movement, Whole Foods has been lauded as a leader in some circles, and at the same time criticized because of more than a few controversial actions. Many people for instance took issue with the company’s decision not to fight Monsanto harder on the issue of GMO alfalfa, which is capable of cross-contaminating non-GMO varieties. Others thought the company’s plan to label GMOs by the year 2018, while admirable at the time, did not do enough to address the presence of many unlabeled products containing an admittedly small amount... more »

Witness Says Cops Sat Handcuffed Man Down In Back of Police Car—Then Shot Him

Matt Agorist at The Free Thought Project - 7 hours ago
After police shot an unarmed man, a witness has come forward with photos and details claiming that the man was handcuffed and sitting in the back of the cruiser when the officer shot him for no reason. The post Witness Says Cops Sat Handcuffed Man Down In Back of Police Car—Then Shot Him appeared first on The Free Thought Project.

North Korean Top Aide Arrives at White House (Video)

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 8 hours ago
*WNU Editor:* Lives updates from AP .... *The Latest: Kim aide at White House to give letter to Trump* (AP).

Russia Feels Left Out On What Is Happening On The Korean Peninsula

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 8 hours ago
Kim Jong Un shakes hands with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov. Russian Foreign Ministry *L. Todd Wood, Washington Times*: *Russia frets as Trump orchestrates the mother of all deals* Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov was in Pyongyang Thursday, greeted with much fanfare on his way to talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. It’s a little drop-by that reveals many things about Russia, its priorities in Northeast Asia and its approach to the crisis on the Korean peninsula. A hallmark of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s foreign policy has been to re-establish Russia ... more »

5G: Hype Or Horror?

Activist Post at Activist Post - 8 hours ago
By Catherine J. Frompovich As a consumer, when you purchase an appliance, an automobile, a computer, an SUV, a TV—whatever—you take for granted the product... more »

New hurricane season jeopardizes Caribbean recovery: 5 essential reads

Catesby Holmes, Global Affairs Editor, The Conversation US at Politics + Society – The Conversation - 8 hours ago
The Caribbean braces for another hurricane season even as many nations remain crippled by the catastrophic damage of 2017. Here, experts assess the region's difficult and costly storm recovery.

The Spies Have Been The Leaders In Arranging The North Korea Summit

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 8 hours ago
Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, the former CIA director, and CIA official Andrew Kim, the pair on the left, have dinner with North Korea's Kim Yong Chol, a former intelligence chief, in New York on Wednesday. Current and former spy chiefs are playing an unusually prominent role in arranging a proposed summit between President Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. U.S. State Department *NPR:* *The Spies Have A Leading Role In The North Korea Summit* When Mike Pompeo became CIA director last year, he immediately set his sights on North Korea and its opaque nuclear program. "Wit... more »

U.S. State Dept. Pushes De-escalation of Syrian Strikes on ISIS and Al-Qaeda

Joe Wolverton, II, J.D. at rss - 8 hours ago
[image: u-s-state-dept-pushes-de-escalation-of-syrian-strikes-on-isis-and-al-qaeda] A statement issued by the U.S. State Department promises firm response to Syrian attacks on ISIS.

Canadian Sovereignty Down the Swirly, or Up In Smoke? -- Trump Tightens NAU Straightjacket

greencrow at Greencrow As The Crow Flies - 8 hours ago
*Proposed North American Union Flag* I almost felt sorry for him. Watching Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, looking dashingly wounded, eyebrows crinkled in pain as he spoke before the TV cameras yesterday about how Trump had surprised and shocked him by slapping tariffs on steel. How mean was that? he asked, after Canada had fought shoulder-to shoulder beside the US in two world wars, had joined them in NORAD and NATO and, saddest of all, had "helped" out the United States after it was savagely "attacked on 9/11". Did I say "almost"? Well, in actual fact I did not feel ... more »

North Korean Leader's Aide At White House To Give A Personal Letter To President Trump

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 8 hours ago
*Daily Mail:* *Trump confirms North Korean delegation headed by former spy chief will hand-deliver a letter to the White House from Kim Jong-un and that 'it'll be very positive'* * President said before boarding Air Force One that he might have to meet more than once with Kim Jong-un * Scheduled summit will 'hopefully' still happen June 12 according to Trump * He said a North Korean delegation would probably come to Washington on Friday to hand deliver a letter from Kim Jong-un * 'It'll be very positive,' Trump said * Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had a working dinner on Wednesda... more »

AMERICA'S CRIMES

Anon at Aangirfan - 8 hours ago
America's crimes? *In June 1921, white mobs and police, attacked the black neighborhood of Greenwood, Oklahoma in one of the worst massacres in US history.* The mob opened fire on black residents and set the whole community on fire, destroying 35 blocks and 1,200 homes. At least 300 people were killed. *The attack on Greenwood - one of the wealthiest communities in the US - was sparked by a false allegation that Dick Rowland, a black teenager, had assaulted a white woman.* *American Values‏ @Americas_Crimes* American Values‏ @Americas_Crimes May 29 In May 1830, Andrew Jackso... more »

A Nation That Doesn’t Know War: America Celebrates Memorial Day

Philip Giraldi at 8 hours ago
[image: undefined] Wednesday, May 30th, was Memorial Day in the United States. The commemoration began in 1868 shortly after the American Civil War, when townsmen in several communities came together to decorate the graves of the fallen on the last Monday in May. The practice began in the northern states but soon spread to the south and the annual remembrance ceremony soon took on the name Decoration Day. As wars proliferated in the twentieth century the commemoration eventually lost its association with the Civil War and was increasingly referred to nationally as Memorial Day, even... more »

The "ratification" of the ERA

Sandy Levinson at Balkinization - 8 hours ago
I must say that part of me is appalled by the argument being made that the ERA is still on the table for ratification, so that it is therefore legally significant that Illinois and other states are "ratifying" it. Unless one makes the altogether untenable arguments that a) Congress *cannot *impose a time limit on the consideration of proposed amendments and b) that states have no right to rescind earlier ratifications prior to the addition of a proposed amendment to the Constitution, then the ERA, alas, died as a legal possibility in 1982 (assuming of course, that Congress had the ... more »

That Time Fox News Retracted Their Story Linking Seth Rich’s Murder to Leaked E-mails

David Emery at Snopes.com - 8 hours ago
A year after retracting the conspiracy-tainted story and vowing to investigate the matter further, nary an update has appeared.

Did Michelle Obama Tell ABC to Fire Roseanne Barr?

Kim LaCapria at Snopes.com - 8 hours ago
A Twitter user claimed — with no evidence — that the former First Lady ordered the network to cancel 'Roseanne.'

Police Investigate Mummified Body Found in a Hoarder’s Home

Kim LaCapria at Snopes.com - 8 hours ago
In May 2018, police in Australia found a corpse in the home of a hoarder who died the year before.

Wisconsin Educator Picked to be UA Anchorage Chancellor

cmaadmin at Diverse - 9 hours ago
ANCHORAGE, Alaska — A Wisconsin educator will be the next chancellor of the University of Alaska Anchorage. UA President Jim Johnsen announced that Dr. Cathy Sandeen will succeed Sam Gingerich on Sept. 15. Sandeen is chancellor of the University of Wisconsin Colleges and the University of Wisconsin-Extension. She oversees combined faculty and staff of 2,200 […]

University of Idaho Extends Leave for Athletic Director

cmaadmin at Diverse - 9 hours ago
BOISE, IDAHO The University of Idaho says it has extended its athletic director’s administrative leave until the school completes an investigation into sexual assault complaints made against a football player. University President Chuck Staben announced Thursday that Rob Spear was originally placed on a 60-day administrative leave in April and it was set to expire […]

NATHAN LARSON IS A HORRIBLE PERSON. THE FACT THAT HE'S RUNNING FOR CONGRESS ISN'T HORRIBLE.

Steve M. at No More Mister Nice Blog - 9 hours ago
I obviously understand why this story is drawing *some* attention, but I don't understand why it's important enough to have been the lead item at the news aggregator Memeorandum all day: Nathan Larson, a 37-year-old accountant from Charlottesville, Virginia, is running for Congress as an independent candidate in his native state. He is also a pedophile, as he admitted to HuffPost on Thursday, who has bragged in website posts about raping his late ex-wife. In a phone call, Larson confirmed that he created the now-defunct websites suiped.org and incelocalypse.today ― chat rooms that s... more »

World News Briefs -- June 1, 2018

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 9 hours ago
*DW:* *As US tariffs go into effect, Europe, Canada and Mexico strike back* Canada and Mexico have already announced retaliatory tariffs on billions of dollars worth of US goods. The EU has taken the case to the WTO and vowed to hit iconic US products with import penalties. The US introduced a 25-percent tariff on steel and a 10-percent tariff on aluminum from the EU, Canada and Mexico on Friday, sparking furious reactions from European leaders who had been hoping for an exemption from the measures. In response, the EU has formally complained about the tariffs to the World Trade ... more »

David Brooks's unwillingness to connect the dots

Sandy Levinson at Balkinization - 9 hours ago
David Brooks has a column in today’s NYTimes entitled “One Reform to Save America.” Briefly, he calls for the adoption of the (uncited) FairVote proposal to get rid of single-member congressional districts in favor of multi-member districts elected with proportional representation, plus adoption of the alternative vote to assure that winners in First Past the Post systems will in fact have a plausible claim to have garnered majority support (and, therefore, an incentive to try to attract some centrist support). From one perspective, neither raises any basic constitutional issues... more »

Wind Power Drops To 2-Year Low

Paul Homewood at NOT A LOT OF PEOPLE KNOW THAT - 9 hours ago
By Paul Homewood h/t Dave Ward Wind power hit a two year low this morning, running at just 63 MW. https://www.bmreports.com/bmrs/?q=eds/main According to Gridwatch figures, it has not been that low since Jan 2016. This was just 0.2% of total demand. Advertisements

This Smartphone Pioneer Is Fighting to Create a Transhumanist Superdemocracy

Ethical Technology - 9 hours ago
David Wood, a man that helped revolutionize communication in the early days of the smart phone, now wants to make the government smarter too. The British transhumanist helped pioneer today’s smartphone industry when he co-founded mobile operating system developer Symbian in 1998, and now he’s calling for changes that would radically rethink how people and politicians interact.

Corporate Data Collection and U.S. National Security: Expanding the Conversation in an Era of Nation State Cyber Aggression

CCordero at Lawfare - 9 hours ago
*This post has been adapted from prepared remarks delivered at the Georgetown Law Cybersecurity Law Institute luncheon on May 24, 2018.* Are we framing the conversation about corporate data collection too narrowly? Traditionally, concerns about corporate data collection have been viewed through the lens of consumer privacy. Meanwhile, concerns about government surveillance have focused on the threats posed to privacy and civil liberties and protection from government overreach. But the 2016 election suggests that we should think more seriously about the national-security consequen... more »

FAKE NEWS FROM AMERICA

Carlos at Viva Bolivia - 9 hours ago
Fake news is used often against leaders; Evo Morales has to contend with it in Bolivia and from other nations' journalists. Donald Trump is also a victim of fake news. The monster that the press had made Trump out to be has been so scary that it impeeds relations and damages international cooperation. Which is the aim of certain intel agencies: divide and conquer. Making a mess by deception. Last month the newscasters reported that Trump called immigrants animals, and Morales responded. However, the press owes both men an apology. Here from the www.brothers4trump.blogspot.com site of... more »

Military And Intelligence News Briefs -- June 1, 2018

War News Updates Editor at War News Updates - 9 hours ago
F-22A Raptors from the 525th Fighter Squadron at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson taxi after arriving at Kadena Air Base in Japan on May 29. The Raptors are part of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command's theater security package to show support for allies in the region. (Staff Sgt. Matthew Fredericks/Air Force) *Air Force Times*: *Air Force F-22 Raptors are back at Kadena, Japan for the first time since 2014* F-22A Raptors this week returned to Kadena Air Base in Japan for the first time in more than three years, the Air Force said. In a release, Pacific Air Forces said that the fifth-generat... more »

Using a greenhouse for food self-sufficiency

Erin Elizabeth at Health Nut News - 9 hours ago
This Greenhouse Invention from Purdue Could Help Address the Global Food Crisis Recently, researchers at Purdue University have been working on creating an automated conveyor-belt type system for their 1,000-square-foot, on-campus greenhouse that’s designed to keep plants within the structure constantly moving. The team hopes that developing this technology will pave the way for options to address […] The post Using a greenhouse for food self-sufficiency appeared first on Health Nut News.

U.S. gov’t worker suffers traumatic brain injury after ‘abnormal sound’ incident in China

Erin Elizabeth at Health Nut News - 9 hours ago
The US State Department issued a health alert to US citizens in China on Wednesday after an American embassy employee suffered a traumatic brain injury. According to the State Department, the injury was due to an “abnormal sensations of sound and pressure.” RELATED STORY: CNN: Diplomats hit by ‘large’ sonic attacks causing nausea, headaches, hearing […] The post U.S. gov’t worker suffers traumatic brain injury after ‘abnormal sound’ incident in China appeared first on Health Nut News.

Study: This exercise method significantly boosts your mood

Erin Elizabeth at Health Nut News - 9 hours ago
By Dr. Mercola Resistance exercise training, commonly referred to as weight training or strength training, is often viewed as an activity aimed at building large muscles. While it certainly does build muscle mass and strength, its benefits don’t end there, as strength training offers bodywide benefits from your heart to your brain. In fact, recent […] The post Study: This exercise method significantly boosts your mood appeared first on Health Nut News.

Suitcases like I've never seen before

Peter at Bayou Renaissance Man - 9 hours ago
I had to smile when reading an article at Laughing Squid about a new self-contained kitchen-in-a-suitcase. There's also a desk (with chair) in a suitcase: And even a bed-in-a-suitcase: I'm not sure how practical they all are, but full marks to the designer for fitting everything into so small a space. The prices, however, are outrageous! Peter

VIDEO: Daraa rebels boast military parade as Syrian Army gears up for final battle

Zen Adra at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 9 hours ago
DAMASCUS, SYRIA (4:10 P.M.) – Rebel factions in Daraa province, known as Southern Front, delivered a massive military parade as more Syrian Army reinforcements arrive for the major assault. The parade involved large numbers of rebel fighters, machinegun-mounted vehicles, tanks, BMPs, medium and heavy artillery. The rebel forces, according to opposition sources, have been deployed […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

Satellite images show US expanded Tanf base as battle for Syria’s south looms

Zen Adra at AMN – Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - 9 hours ago
DAMASCUS, SYRIA (3:35 P.M.) – The US military has reportedly expanded its base in Tanf area as the Syrian government forces amass more troops for final battle in Daraa province. Recently-published satellite images show several buildings and barricades have been added to the base during the past three months, as well as heavy military equipment […] Source: AMN - Al-Masdar News | المصدر نيوز - The Arab Source

And No Barky, You Didn't Build It.

Diogenes Sarcastica™ at Diogenes' Middle Finger - 9 hours ago
*Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta* *GDP Estimate for 2018 Q2 * After strong gains in personal income and consumer spending in April, a bevy of Wall Street firms upped their GDP forecasts. Amherst Pierpont Securities raised its estimate to 4.5% from 4.2%. Macroeconomic Advisers increased its forecast to 4% from 3.6%. Natwest raised its projection to about 4% from 3.2%. Barclays also upped its estimate, but it was near the low end of forecasts. It raised its target to 3.3% from 3%. GDP has only topped 4% three times since the end of the Great Recession in mid-2009. - *MarketWatch* ... more »

Friday Edition: Things to Not Care About...

Adrienne at Adrienne's Corner - 10 hours ago
*thy name is legion.* - Foul mouthed "feminist" Samantha Bee losing sponsors - Equally foul mouthed "feminist" Sally Field out-foul-mouthing Samantha Bee - Roseanne Barr sounding stupid - in a foul mouthed way - Kim Kardashian meeting with Trump (no idea if there was any foul mouthing going on during the meeting) - Google listing "Nazism" as the ideology of the California Republican party (now that's pretty foul mouthed) - Today being National Donut Day *NO! Wait!* *We do care about National Donut Day. * Today you can get free donuts from Walmart, Kris... more »

WATCH: Cop Tortures Restrained Woman With Pepper Spray Until She Passes Out—Gets $50 Fine

Matt Agorist at The Free Thought Project - 10 hours ago
[image: pepper spray] Despite being caught on video torturing a woman with pepper spray who was in a seven point restraint chair, a police officer was allowed to retire and was issued a mere $50 fine. The post WATCH: Cop Tortures Restrained Woman With Pepper Spray Until She Passes Out—Gets $50 Fine appeared first on The Free Thought Project.

Dollar Store Economics Predict Revolutions of Rising Expectations

Majia's Blog at Majia's Blog - 10 hours ago
Today I read in the Wall Street Journal that the Dollar-store chains missed estimates of sales growth. What was interesting was the quote included in the article from Dollar Tree CEO Gary Philbin: "Our customer just doesn't buy some of the categories...until she really needs it." Cited in A. Prang (2018, June 1). Dollar-Store Chains Hurt by Costs. The Wall Street Journal, B3. Some of my readers have suggested that I am out of touch economically with the significantly worsening plight of America's declining working class. That accusation must be true because it really struck me tha... more »

Woman Named Crystal Methvin Arrested for Drug Possession

Dan Evon at Snopes.com - 10 hours ago
Florida police arrested the woman on drug charges after they allegedly found her in possession of methamphetamines.

Roseanne Barr Return Possible, but Lesser Platform Likely

Associated Press at Snopes.com - 10 hours ago
Mainstream television, where she saw soaring success both on the original "Roseanne" and the recent short-lived reboot, is probably out.

Facebook Kills ‘Trending’ Topics, Tests Breaking News Label

Associated Press at Snopes.com - 10 hours ago
Facebook claims the tool is outdated and wasn't popular, and says they are testing new features, including a "breaking news" label.

Is Congressional Candidate Nathan Larson an Admitted Pedophile?

Kim LaCapria at Snopes.com - 10 hours ago
A Virginia congressional candidate served prison time for threatening to kill the president and holds some highly unconventional viewpoints about children and sexuality.

Are DCCC Staffers Blowing It In California?

DownWithTyranny at DownWithTyranny! - 10 hours ago
*Gil Cisneros, the DCCC's 2018 mascot... and people wonder why California is looking dodgy* Six of the very best members of Congress-- plus many more-- declared their candidacies on the back on fantastic records as state legislators: Ted Lieu (CA), Pramila Jayapal (WA), Barbara Lee (CA), Jamie Raskin (MD), Mark Pocan (WI), Keith Ellison (MN). Some of the worst Democrats in Congress were grotesquely bad state legislators, like Joe Crowley (NY), Darren Soto (FL), Lou Correa (CA), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL). Today the Democrats are enthusiastically running the single worst member of... more »

Could Japan Have Won World War II by NOT Attacking Pearl Harbor?

James Holmes at The National Interest - 10 hours ago
*James Holmes* *Security, * What was Tokyo other options? *In other words, it would have evicted U.S. forces from the Philippine Islands, seized Pacific islands and built airfields there, and employed air and submarine attacks to cut the U.S. Pacific Fleet down to size on its westward voyage to the Philippines’ relief. Interceptive operations would have culminated in a fleet battle somewhere in the Western Pacific. Japan would have stood a better chance of success had it done so. Its navy still would have struck American territory to open the war, but it would have done so in f... more »

Student’s Remarks Illustrate Growing Black Disenchantment With Liberalism

Steve Byas at rss - 10 hours ago
[image: students-remarks-illustrate-growing-black-disenchantment-with-liberalism] A video gone viral of a black student at Stanford announcing that he is escaping the liberal plantation is a graphic illustration of a growing sentiment among the African-American population.

How Will Con-Con "Conservatives" Respond to Demands by Leftist Allies?

Joe Wolverton, II, J.D. at rss - 10 hours ago
[image: how-will-con-con-conservatives-respond-to-demands-by-leftist-allies] California Constitutional Convention is a Progressive group pushing for a con-con that has published a list of amendments it will demand at such a convention.

LaRouchePAC Friday Webcast - June 1, 2018

adam at LaRouchePAC Feed - 10 hours ago
LaRouchePAC Friday Webcast - June 1, 2018 Video of LaRouchePAC Friday Webcast - June 1, 2018 Join us LIVE at 2pm Eastern with our host, Matthew Ogden for the LaRouchePAC Friday Webcast.

Brazil’s Government Cuts Social Programs to Subsidize Fuel

Lise Alves at The Rio Times - 11 hours ago
By Lise Alves, Senior Contributing Reporter RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The federal government of Brazil announced yesterday (Thursday, May 31st) cuts of R$1.2 billion in social programs, infrastructure, incentives for exporters and maintenance of federal highways to cover the R$9.58 billion in expects to lose after giving into strikers’ demands and subsidizing diesel fuel […]

Jardim Botânico: Rio’s Garden Park Neighborhood in Zona Sul

Jack Arnhold at The Rio Times - 11 hours ago
By Jack Arnhold, Contributing Reporter RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – The neighborhood of Jardim Botânico is not as well known as some in Rio’s Zona Sul (South Zone), but this is one of the primary reasons why its residents enjoy living here so much. Named after the Jardim Botânico (Botanical Gardens) it is also home […]

Jorge Ben Jor to Play Rio’s Circo Voador this Friday and Saturday

Jack Arnhold at The Rio Times - 11 hours ago
By Jack Arnhold, Contributing Reporter RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL – There aren’t many names in Brazilian music bigger than Jorge Ben Jor, and fans of his oeuvre will be delighted to know that he will be playing two nights at Circo Voador, this Friday, June 1st, and Saturday, June 2nd. Jorge Ben Jor is best […]

Muslim Mob Chase Cops in London in 2009….Police Run for Cover

wmw_admin at The Truthseeker - 11 hours ago
Watch as scores of British police can literally be seen running from a violent Muslim mob in London in 2009

University of Texas to Treat Masculinity as a ‘Mental Health’ Issue

wmw_admin at The Truthseeker - 11 hours ago
Is the University of Texas attempting to stigmatize masculinity?

Chevron wins $38m from Environmentalists behaving badly: extortion, fraud, witness tampering, corrupt practices

co2islife at CO2 is Life - 11 hours ago
Score 1 for Chevron In 2011, environmentalists won the worlds largest judgement against Chevron (holy moley $18 billion), but it turned out it was all based on fraud, fake witnesses and telling lies. Who would think people who say they like trees and human rights would be so self serving? The award has since been … Continue reading "Chevron wins $38m from Environmentalists behaving badly: extortion, fraud, witness tampering, corrupt practices"

Why Data Tampering Matters

co2islife at CO2 is Life - 11 hours ago
“Who controls the past controls the future. Who controls the present controls the past.” ― George Orwell, 1984 I frequently post these graphs showing how NOAA and NASA have erased America’s hot past, and particularly how they made the incredibly hot year of 1934 disappear. Continue Reading Please Like, Share, Subscribe and Comment

What Does Trump EPA’s Scott Pruitt Need A Soundproof “Privacy Booth” For?

miningawareness at Mining Awareness + - 11 hours ago
For those who missed it, Pruitt had a sound-proof “privacy booth” (phone booth) installed in his office at the EPA. … Continue reading →

GAPS IN CHICAGO: Not even close to "learning the most!"

bob somerby at the daily howler - 11 hours ago
*FRIDAY, JUNE 1, 2018Part 4—The problem we all live with:* Back in December, a full-page report in the New York Times may have seemed to make a remarkable claim. Based upon its banner headline, it may have seemed to say that kids in the Chicago Public Schools are the "students who learn the most" across our big sprawling nation. That's what the headline may have seemed to say or imply. A reader might have gotten that impression from the way the news report started: BADGER AND QUEALY (12/13/18): *New Measure Shows Where Students Learn the Most* In the Chicago Public Schools syste... more »

....and it's a three-way in Taipei

Michael Turton at The View from Taiwan - 11 hours ago
[image: IMG_0555] *A winery outside Fengyuan* Yup. It's official. Pasuya Yao is now the DPP candidate for Taipei mayor. I was scared it might be someone who had some possibility of winning, but Yao will help current independent Mayor Ko Wen-je. Focus Taiwan reports: The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) on Wednesday nominated Pasuya Yao (姚文智) to run for Taipei mayor, making him the third prominent candidate in the election. ... A survey released May 22 by Taiwan Brain Trust showed Yao with 13.8 percent support in a possible three-way race against Ko (39.4 percent) and Ting (33.5 ... more »

MiniBoone Confirms Neutrino Anomaly

Tommaso Dorigo at Science 2.0 blogs - 11 hours ago
Neutrinos, the most mysterious and fascinating of all elementary particles, continue to puzzle physicists. 20 years after the experimental verification of a long-debated effect whereby the three neutrino species can "oscillate", changing their nature by turning one into the other as they propagate in vacuum and in matter, the jury is still out to decide what really is the matter with them. And a new result by the MiniBoone collaboration is stirring waters once more. read more

Hazardous Golf: Utah Couple Flees Lumbering Moose

Associated Press at Snopes.com - 11 hours ago
A young moose bigger than their golf cart chased a Utah couple off the links at the Park City Golf Club.

30-Year-Old Evicted by Parents Meets Deadline to Leave Home

Associated Press at Snopes.com - 11 hours ago
Michael Rotondo honked and waved to reporters as he pulled out of the driveway of his parents' home in Camillus, New York.

Trump Blasts Samantha Bee’s ‘Horrible Language’ About Ivanka

Associated Press at Snopes.com - 11 hours ago
President Trump tweeted that it was a "total double standard" that TBS hadn't canceled Bee's show.

Review Ahmad, Muhammad Idrees, The Road to Iraq, The Making of a Neoconservative War

Joel Wing at MUSINGS ON IRAQ - 11 hours ago
*Review Ahmad, Muhammad Idrees, **The Road to Iraq, The Making of a Neoconservative War**, Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press Ltd, 2014* Muhammad Idrees Ahmad set out to explain how the neoconservatives inside and out of the Bush administration set the stage for the 2003 war with Iraq. Every serious scholar agrees that the neoconservatives played a large role in that process. As Ahmad writes, it’s not just those at the top like President Bush and Vice President Cheney that set policy, but those that influence the decisions that should be studied as well. Ahmad correctly argues t... more »

Musings On Iraq - Jun 1

Joel Wing at MUSINGS ON IRAQ - 11 hours ago
1941 Regent of Iraq returned to power after PM Gaylani overthrown by British 1941 497 Iraqi soldiers killed and 695 wounded British lost 150 troops during Anglo- Iraq War 1941 Regent welcomed at airport by group of Jews from Baghdad who were attacked on way home that continued into capital 1941 Farhud anti-Jewish pogrom in Baghdad started Around 120 people killed and 850 wounded 1941 Yunis Sabawi pro-Nazi leader who appointed himself governor of southern Iraq planned pogrom against Jews but deported by Brits 1941 British troops barred... more »

Accused Spy Kevin Mallory Goes to Trial

mkahn at Lawfare - 11 hours ago
On Wednesday morning, in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Judge T.S. Ellis III presided over opening arguments in the espionage trial of former U.S. intelligence officer Kevin Mallory. Last summer, a grand jury returned an indictment against Mallory for turning over classified information to aid a foreign power in violation of the Espionage Act and lying to the FBI about it. It’s not every day that an accused spy sees his day in court—such cases rarely go to trial. Mallory is a 61-year-old former employee of the CIA, DIA, State Department and U.S. Arm...more »