04/01//06

I inaugurate a new headline section, the "Great War" will contain stories having to do with the new "East and West" struggle first:

How did Bushwhackoff get his "War On?" Well, he lied, and uh, lied a lot. Months before the war started he had a date set, regardless of the outcome of any "preventative strategy." (032706l)

The Muddle East:

Is Saudi Arabia going for the nukes? Did they help Pakistan fund their research and now is the time for some Quid Pro Quo? interesting reading. (040106b)

Israel / Palestine:

Israel's new party, Kadima, seems destined to go backwards. (032606l)

The bias in US meddle - east policy favoring Israel is costly and dangerous. It is also the one aspect which seems to get virtually no coverage, has millions of supporters and contributed to the creation of the wars we are now fighting or supporting, such as Israel's "go slow/quiet" war on the Palestinians. (032606i)

Iraq:

Vietnam and Iraq are different conflicts in many way, but quite similar in terms of the kinds of errors the US policy makers made. Here are the top ten of the repeated errors. (033006f)

Update: the experts look at Al Sadr, his rise, motivations and his attitude toward the resistance. (032906b)

Dozens die daily and now children going to school become targets. Spinning out of control? No, already done that, what's next? Can you spell chaos? (032906a)

Battles and beheadings, the article says Baghdad deteriorates by the hour. (032706j) Speculation is, in this article, that attacks are more and more sectarian and designed to segregate the society (032706k)

Well, image and message is the thing, ephemeral as they are, and it seems US troops and their allies shot up people at mosque, the mayor of Baghdad wants to sever cooperation with the US, others call it a massacre meant to ignite civil war, the street has a bad impression of this event. (032706a)

Regarding the 17 people mentioned below there is clarification, but this article talks about an alleged attack by US forces on people at mosque, Shia's at that, and well, this is the word that has gone out, maybe the facts, if they are different, will catch up, but image is everything. (032606e)

Why were 40 Iraqi police arrested for holding 17 non-Iraqi prisoners? Chaos seems like. (032606a)

The Greater Islamic regions:

Iran:

A new weapon, more rhetoric, more speculation regarding nuclear capability and the dance continues. Something has to give, eventually, and something will. Just what, how or when is a mystery. I feel it is a matter of time, however. (033106b)

The tango trip continues: another meeting,, another call for Iran to cease and desist, another assertion from Iran that it can to what it wants to do and that what it is doing is in line with the NPT. No one mentions the Israeli factor in all of this, but it is there nonetheless. (033006h)

Maybe this is good news: oil trumps nukes in the Iran debate, everyone wants it, it is just a matter of who gets it. Iran is busy making deals and, ironically, is still importing it - go figure. Pipelinistan, as a geopolitical adventure, is alive and well. (032706e)

Some speculations on the Iran situation, what if they cut off their oil to the world? (032606b)

Questioning the "Clash of Civilizations" theory. Some thoughts which make complex its over simplification of the issues and divergent nature of cultures. (033006i)

Just to bring it home. The oil problem in the world, this article demonstrates how much oil goes into making a simple breakfast. Energy costs are hidden everywhere. We are oil dependent and this is a weakness of our civilization. (032606d)

I wonder if this counts as a "severe" weather event. And is there is a "hint" of global warming, when the article some were surprised at the speed of the snow melt? (033106a)

Global warming = more hurricanes that will be both bigger and stronger. That "surprising" word gets some coverage (032706i) Here is an overview of the approaching or present "tipping point" (040106d)

A brief report indicating that the kind of ice melt we're seeing could be similar to what happened some 130,000 years ago, when the sea levels were several METERS higher than they are now. (032606i)

Arctic ice cover fails to reform ... (032706h) You have to buy the article but the lead paragraphs are enough for me.

Sometimes the frustration leaks out, even on CNN. Here is a bit on the Cancun confab and the issues and opinions being ignored. (040106a)

What is reality anyway? What does it matter? The Pentagon investigates itself and, guess what, everything is fine. No matter the Lincoln Group's planted stories, torture scandals, and so forth . (033006x)

One would think that huge volumes of cancer causing chemicals being leaked into water tables would be news. One would think that the EPA would take action. One would think that those in charge of defending our nation would be in agreement with such actions - and - yes, you saw it coming, YOU"D BE WRONG. (033006e)

Hey! the NYT finally mentions what should be called "memogate." The memo talked about indicates that Bush lied. Pretty clear and simply, he lied and people died. (033006c)

Iraqi Vets Against the War, IVAW, goes on a march, interviews happen, some bits of the truth spill out. (033006d)

Hey! Can it be only 326 days since congress requested an investigation into the Downing Street Memo? Boy time sure flies like hell when your having fun! (032706m)

Is the press in decline, some numbers suggest that it is only their profitability that is in question, and even that aint so bad. But there is a "sea change" in how they are owned and run (032706b)

 So how secure are we when radio active material can be smuggled into the US, set off detectors only to have forged copies of import documents downloaded from the web get them a wave through? (040106c)

The "seismic" "continental drift" of the evolving multi-polar world continues onward. Bushwhackoff doesn't seem to get it, the witless, limpwristed, jackanapes of a turd ball. (032706g)

Just how do "millions and millions" of women go "missing" every year? Here are the clues (032606m)

A look at the Bushwhacko religious right, the Iraq war, "end times" and more (040106e)

James Maidison, in his writing, would have me believe that we now have a tyrannical form of government. (033006a) Even some FISA judges say Bushwhackoff has it wrong - o (033006b)

Where has all the dollars gone, long time passing, where has our GDP gone, long time ago: financial house of cards? How hooked are we to exporting debt? (032706f)

Something that resembles a victory for immigrants, but it is really only a battle, the war has yet to really get under way (032906c)

Immigration reform sparks "contested" discussions at home and abroad. I don't want a permanent underclass of low-skilled and low-wage workers who have no enfranchisement, this would only hurt those native born who need such jobs by lowering the wages offered for such work. This is what Bushwhackoff might want for his corporate cronies ... (032706c)

Abrogation of the Constitution is a way of life now for Bushwhackoff and Co. His stealth weapon of choice is the signing statement. Essentially he uses them to admit that although he's signed the law he'll enforce is as he sees fit. (032606g) Here are the specifics on one case, the renewal of the USA Patriot Act (032606h)

George Bush has done what Che Gueverra, Castro and Daniel Ortega all together weren't, that is to say, bring leftism to South America, unify it against the US.(032605c) So one of our government's ideas is to build a wall across our border, how does that sit with the rest of the Americas? (032606e) The issue generated a stiff reaction, from Latino's and neo-confederate types (032606k)

A woman's work is never done, so goes the old saying, this woman created a movement and spectacular as her results have been she knows there is a distance to go. (032706d)

I inaugurate a new headline section, the "Great War" will contain stories having to do with the new "East and West" struggle first:

The Muddle East:

Palestine/Israel:

I don't have a solution but I do have a question. If Hamas remains true to its fervor, regarding Israel and Israel continues as it has and the international community cuts off the flow of aid, what happens? Would not we see a devolution of social order, meaning chaos? Meaning that some will take advantage of circumstances that will worsen, would we then call it Iraq 2? Mr. Abbas predicts another generation of warfare (040706i)

Iraq:

What is the "tethered goat strategy"? And why are jobs going unfilled and projects being ignored? What's in a blame game? (040706f)

Options in Iraq, one wonders, after we shoot ourselves, first in one foot and then the other, we try to fit both of them in our mouth. Then, when we complain about the pain while managing to twiddle our thumbs we manage to increase our enemy's strength, weaken our own position and put a blinder on so we don't see what is going on, That's my take on this interesting article. (040706c)

Condigirl out of touch again, just a few months late, I wonder if she's getting any and from whom? (040506d) How Condigirl "helps" out in Iraq (040606h) Mosque bombings provide another step towards open civil war. (040607a) and some details (040706b)

A demonstration that civil war is underway in Iraq, that the Sunni resistance has achieved, or very nearly achieved a significant strategic goal, at the expense of the US, and, well, it all seems to be chaotic. (040506b) And here is what I mean, we train police and the Iraqi government will not use them, bizarre that, it is a "contentious" issue, probably one of many. (040506c)

Large scale internal "migration" increases the sectarian divides which now fracture Iraq. (040306d) Meanwhile the US military remains "Clueless in Baghdad" see Major General Lynch's comments critiqued. (040306e)

The stats are in, segregation of Sunni and Shia, motivated by sectarian violence, now numbers in the tens of thousands. (040206d)

The Greater Muddle East

Iran:

Another coalition of the willing? For Iran? Sanctions? That is the rumor. (040706g)

A quick look, as if we need a reminder, at the pragmatics involved in a US strike on Iran. (040706d)

A set of new weapons, a hint that Russia has supplied them with a helping and more bluster as Iran runs through some war games in the Straits of Hormuz, an oil shipping bottleneck by the way (040306h) and part two (040306i)

Is this fear mongering, a realistic assessment, or just something to make a dull news day less dull? Iran, "they" say, has nasty options should we attack their nuke sites. (040206e)

Pakistan:

If it looks like civil war, sounds like civil war, and there are organized units taking and holding territory, well, what do we have? "Nothing at all according to the government. This is the third front in Pakistan's besieged condition, it is the most serious at this time. (040206a) and part two (040206b) and part three (040206c) I mean especially if the rallying cry is for independence...? (040206g)

Meanwhile in Waziristan ... fighting continues as well. (040206f)

Take a voyage through storm and beautiful calm in this 12 part article on the "Fate of the Oceans" part 1,(040806a) part 2, (040806b) part 3, (040806c) part 4, (040806d) part 5, (040806e) part 6, (040806f) part 7,(040806g) part 8,(040806h) part 9, (040806i) part 10,(040806j) part 11, (040806k) and part 12, (040806l)

Update on the Bird Flu. They use the word "alarming" but like they say in the article, who knows when, or if really, it will be come dangerous, pandemically speaking, to humans. (040306g) You might wonder why I include bird flu stories, well, my thought is that if we had more resources we'd be way ahead of this thing, but we, the US, are somewhat distracted, are we not?

The take on global warming evolves to, "Well, it has already begun, it is worse than we thought and the chance for fixing it looks small." (040306f)

Apparently professor Pianka's thinks that killing off 90 percent of humanity with airborne ebola "is the way to go" in solving most of the ills of humanity and for those we are causing the planet. Here is the story (040306b) Here is a web site with a piece of evidence for his view, look to the last comment just before the evaluations for fall 2005 (040306c)

Does this story from Europe sound familiar to what has happening in the north central US? Unexpectedly quick snow melt? (040306a)

It's just too "juicy" what are republicans made of? I may not know but I do know what one of them likes, 14 year old girls, and how! (040506a)

So, let's go back to square one, 9/11. Would it surprise anyone that the pipeline of electronic financial transactions was very, very unusually active in the world trade center right up to and including the time of the tower's destruction? (040606d) That wasn't the only source of profit taking, there were "short sales" and options that made 9/11 a very important date for those who were "lucky" (040606e) And a name pops up in all this stinking God awful mess; (040606f)

How about "Spooky" banks, what is the role, hmmm ... can't figure that one out. (040606g)

125 new nukes a year to replace old ones or rework the raw explosive materials into new configurations, but this effort is not meant to spark a new arms race, no sir, not at all. (040706e)

Yet another nation, Peru, heads for the LLLOL camp where Bolivia and Venezuela await them with salutations. (040706h)

Noam Chomsky: the US as a failed state, as a rogue state, a terrorist state ... just telling you what I understand him to say, but read for yourself, it is interesting. (040506e)

The Election Bets:

Does anything f - cking matter? Can this buffoon, this jackanapes, this proverbial turd in the swimming pool of life, just say and do anything while everyone just flaps their yap flappers, or does a crazy chicken dance? The story about the "leaker in chief" who has promised to "punish" leakers. Well, all I can say is don't hold your breath. (040606a) and part two (040606b)

Republicans may be in the path of a political hurricane (040606c) Or so says the article. It is wrong.

My prediction for the upcoming election is that the republicans will not loose congress. Oh, there'll be "close races" but a media so biased and corrupted allows no real examination of reality, election machines and vote processing rig the totals, various groups, organizations, business organizations and others support the republicans significantly WITHOUT cash donations, and the religious idiots who believe in creationism, that we're in the end times and that we ARE fighting evil, well ... need I say more. Then too, those persons or groups backing Cheney Bush et al, have determined to hold onto power, whatever the cost. Be worried about that.

Of course the Democrats, well ... um ... uh ... enough said, since they aren't saying anything worthwhile.

I have taken bets on this, with the understanding that A) elections will be held, B) there has been no large scale or sudden change in the important circumstances / issues which should frame the election's debate and C) that nature does not take a hand in things.

How low can Bushwhacoff go? I, cynically, don't think it matters. Those who want the repuglicans in power will keep them there. (040706x)

I inaugurate a new headline section, the "Great War" will contain stories having to do with the new "East and West" struggle first:

The Muddle East:

Turkey's problems with the Kurds take on an uptick. This situation is directly related to the US involvement in Iraq and how poorly, nay, badly we've goofed that all up to hell and gone. Another generation comes of age and the obdurate nationalist government is concerned that the uptick might be the start of a long term trend. (040906b)

Iraq:

I can't believe that I still hear people ask "What fuels the resistance?" How about hundreds of thousands of dead? How about more of the same every day and reasonably enough Iraqis can lay the blame on the bungled US invasion/occupation/liberation or whatever it is called (041506d)

A "non-government" really and escalating violence. A stubborn Jaffari and just as stubborn opponents. (041306f) The result of the chaos is the refugee problem as families, by the tens of thousands, seek "their own kind" (041406b)

Death rates for US troops climb again, does this coincide with US forces resuming a more active role at this time, for the time being? (041306b)

Two senior military officers who questioned Bushwhacky on the "Iraq thing" speak out again. Refreshing to hear their take on the situation now. (041206b)

Unpleasant commentary, what essentially is different about Iraq's conflict and what does it mean in the long term? (041006j) part two (041006k) and part three (041006l)

Palestine/Israel:

What happens if you put serious question to the relationship of the US and Israel regarding foreign policy? All hell breaks loose and the presstitutes hardly take note (041006e) A writer of the research takes losses (041006f)

With the restriction and or cutting of of US and Euro aid the line has been drawn. Now, there is a process of cantonization to complicate matters. (040906a)

The Greater Muddle East

Iran:

Here are some understandable reasons for an attack on Iran. You may not like what is said, but there are parts of it that make sense. However, I feel that Bushwhacky won't build a cooperative coalition, plan well, or be prepared for what may happen. (041406g) And, in case you need a review, these are some of the first few things we'd have to "fear or deal with" if we did attack Iran (041406h) And it all may just be bluster, lies and misdirection (041406i)

Reading this article you can see the fault lines appearing in what one might still call "the west" as well as between it and large Asian powers such as China and Russia. India probably has its own agenda as does Israel. How long will the US stand by and let Iran do what we said we attacked Iraq for doing, which it hadn't been doing - well - uh - that 's another story. (041306g)

So what's the big deal with not even a couple hundred old centrifuges? (041306a) And what would be the "cost" in casualties if we used those nuclear bunker busters we're so proud of? (041306c)

The dance continues with announcements and counter announcements, a nuclear Iran seems a certain development unless it is prevented by diplomacy or by force, gee I wonder which one Bushwhackoff will choose? (041106c) part two (041106d) and part three! (041106e)

El Baradei's trip yields nada, (041406e) The Chinese visit too, Iran such a popular summit point. (041406f)

Sy Hersh says Bushwhackoff is "cruisin' for a bruisin' " with Iran's nukes as the reason for an attack meant to topple the regime,. Administrative sources and the Brits say "Tut, tut, nonsense, no one is thinking that way." Smoke and mirrors, rumors? Whatever (040906c)

Comments regarding that article, one says we won't be going into Iran soon, (041006c) and the other says, "Well, why not? He lied, ignored counter indicating intelligence and common sense (041006b)

Interior details of Iranian culture, illuminated here, provide understanding of the regime's willingness to "stand tall" (041006i)

Pakistan:

A sectarian attack here? Sunni clerics killed in a blast that takes 40 lives (041106b)

The Greater Islamic regions:

In Afghanistan computer data is available in bazaar's. Some of it is very sensitive and one wonders how such data became available and if anyone who might use it against us is preparing to do so? (041406a)

Oil prices rebounding? Seems like instability in Nigeria and Iran seem to be part of the key, note that the article says OPEC is pumping at capacity

Russia wants to scuttle a pipeline and yearns for more influence in the "Pipelineistan" region of southern Asia. (040806n)

The Danube, a major river in Europe, is at an 111 year high mark. Something of a reprise of last year's flooding and problems; are we seeing the onset of new seasonal patterns? (041506a)

At least the Brits are sounding the alarm concerning global warming, some of the predictions for a 3 degree rise in temperature, something we are like to have to deal with. (041506j)

Well, coral bleaching and other plagues make their mark in the Caribbean. Coral the " canary in the mine shaft" of the ocean seems to be having a rough time with increased temperatures in various places in the world, (041006a)The bird flu makes some "interesting leaps" of geography and "something unusual is going on." (040806q)

So when general speak out it gets some air time, but the real message is lost, as to what it means for them to speak the way they are, as to what it means for our military in terms of taking an assessment of morale, and leadership. (041506e)

How a government lie develops and keeps going and going and going ... (041506b)

This is Sy Hersh sounding the alarm regarding action against Iran, (041206c)

This article calls him the "Pretzeldent" for all his contortions regarding leaking and such like. The issue raised are constitutional and thus connect with the bedrock values of our nation, the Plame Game continues to smolder (041206a) Here are more contortionist moves that the Prezydick breaks out - read carefully - and slowly (041306e)

Why don't stories like this get the kind of play that would turn the public's stomach? Oh, my bad, the press doesn't do that. (040906d)

China has changed, many people can talk about its economy, its military and a quest for a place on the world's stage, however something that looks like a terrorist bombings and which make the news? That is different, no details, just a preliminary death total. (041106a)

 It is not just a war, it is a crazy war. As if any war is not. Well, here are some insights to the meddle east, Lebanon in particular, during the Reagan years and how we duked it out using car bombs. (041506c)

McCain and Bush, the election coming and the "stupid state of the Union" given some critique (041306h)

The "famed" Council on Foreign Relations hails a new era of American nuclear supremacy which makes MAD obsolete. It is felt that we can destroy the Russian or Chinese nuclear arsenals in a first strike. Hurray! Now we can contemplate the impossible! (041006g)

China makes more moves in Pakistan in the areas immediate to the Indian Ocean, the "string of pearls" strategy continues. Developing a nice port near the straits of Hormuz, in Myanmar and even the Maldives. (040806m) And a glimpse into the glitter of a globalizing, growth hungry China, things were never this way before (040806r) But such things area a global phenomenon (040806s)

Protest is back in the news. Interesting that we have "waves" these days. Immigration has sparked the latest round, antiwar continues, then there was Paris and now China. Other places too, interesting. In that light look at this story if you want to reflect on "seismic changes" to the US political landscape. There are, uneasily you'll agree, to many groups around the world forcing their way onto the world's stage - to the regret of many. Think on it. (041406d)

Want an uncomfortable armchair view of the Bushwhackoff Administration's faith based plans and so forth? Great reading, lots of links, but I just have the overviews here. (041406c)

Iraq to be come the central issue of 2008's election? Kerry moving away from Lieberman and the military praying to be rescued? A wrap up of current issues by Mr. Buchannan. (041306d)

Anonymous quotation: "Will somebody PLEASE give Bush a blow job so we can impeach him?" Love it; it says it all!

South of the Rio Grande, continental sized changes are afoot and no one seems to be paying attention, well Bushwhacoff is, but then he's caused those changes and it's not really a good thing for the US. (040806o) In Colombia, meanwhile, the old recipe is being worked one more time, a repressive government impoverishing its people who rise against it. The US interests, globalization and so forth are after what ever they want, land for instance... profit essentially (040806p)

The NAFTA factor in the immigration debate, highlighted by the half million marchers in Dallas and demonstrations in other cities around the nation. (041006h)

Peru, has its electin and the results may go to a run off, the controversial nominally anti US contender has a bizarre family and a strange history, (041006x)

 Slowly, the interdenominational churches are not only waking up to the military, pulpit and business complex. Some resistance has formed and one wonders if the movement will spread, if there is time for any real effect to be felt. (040906e)

I inaugurate a new headline section, the "Great War" will contain stories having to do with the new "East and West" struggle first:

The Muddle East:

Iraq:

Those who can, are leaving, while not quite an exodus, hundreds of thousands have taken shelter in Jordan alone, while others go farther afield. (042106a)

It seems we ignored the rise of the Shia militia's, because we were focused on the Sunni uprising, because we did not heed intelligence, because the planning was bad from the get go and no one who made all this chaos possible, Rummydumdum included, are taking any responsibility (041806h)

Recollect Fallujah? We went in to clean it out, then surrounded it walled and fenced it, we, one time, declared it the safest city in Iraq, well, that has not been the case, the fighting continues. Lord only knows how the citizenry can abide in such a chaotic mess (042006a)

And here we read of a "new force" in Iraq, numbering some 146,000 and of it it is said: "the militias.," he adds, "are slowly gaining control of the [state security] apparatus." (042006d)

Palestine/Israel:

This story has a discovery of weapons in Jordan leading to some interesting facts, half of Jordan's population is Palestinian, these have a sort of "discounted" citizenship when it comes to representation and they have a measure of sympathy for the Palestinian cause (042206f)

Palestinian's have a shortfall of funding because the "west" has cut off aid to the Hamas led government. One wonders who will step in to fill that vacuum and what effect it will have. A spike in violence perhaps as this note suggests. (042006h)

I wonder why there has not been shrill invectives launched at Russia for its "involvement" with the Palestinians, Is Russia still trying to be a "playa'" in the meddle east? (041506h) Iran also wants to be a benefactor, a prospect that Israel must "truly think is wunnerful, jus' wunnerful" (041606a)

Israel declares the existence of a new "Axis of Terror" Hamas in Palestine, Syria and Iran. Threats and counter threats continue. (041806x)

The last Conquest of Jerusalem, a good description and a detailed map of various lines, walls, borders and demographics (041706h)

The Greater Muddle East

Afghanistan:

The interesting thing about this article, Afghan resistance won't slow, is the number of US troops given, it is 18,000. My memory has it that this is higher than it has been in some time and higher than the original invasion force. More troops, less stability? Sound familiar? (042106b)

Iran:

LIeberman talks about the Iran war (041806d) Is it more than the usual saber rattling? (041806e) and more information about what we're already doing inside (041806f)

What will we do? What will happen? One has to ask this with every provocative sound bite being aired. (041506g)And what of Saudi Arabia's rumored nuke program, its involvement with funding that of Pakistan's? Then, well, they follow through on recycling ambassadors, portending what? Evidencing what? (041706a)

Claims, counterclaims, suspicions, boasts, threats, and a situation that is as clear as mud, it seems Ahmadinejad is busy making a recipe for what? (041706d)

Here is some speculation based on reports over the last few months and statements made (041706e) And Mr. Tony Blair is reported to be saying "no" to action in Iran. (041706g)

Pakistan:

India accuses Pakistan of continuing to support militants, while that may be, but does anyone suspect that, perhaps, someone else would have reason to give that impression? Wouldn't Al Qaida want friction? Wouldn't they love to have Pakistan's government fall? Does anyone think that? (041806b)

The Greater Islamic regions:

Adaptability, that is the key phrase to the Jihadi's now a days. The recruitment of "white Muslims" who can blend in with "western crowds" seems to be another adaptation. (041706b)

South Korea and Japan still "struggle" over a set of rocky outcroppings. At issue are fishing rights and, of course, the prospects of oil. Normally, if we weren't so distracted that is, the US would be right in the midst of this situation, on top of it, as it were, because both are allies, we'd like a slice of whatever action comes of making peace and North Korea may well find a way to take advantage of the problems, as might Russia and China for that matter. Who knows. (041806a)

And dear old "Global Warming" gets some coverage, this article talks about a three degree change, there are scenarios, computer models, which figure on an increase of twice that, even more. (042106h)

The mystery of falling ice. From reports it is nice, hard, white ice. Not the blue stuff that planes might "drop". One wonders about this phenomenon. Explanation include being a side effect of global warming. It's no laughing matter. Who'd want hailstorms with hail the size of microwave ovens? (041506f)

Dust storms in springtime, an annual event in Chin's capital, this year, more storms and heavier ones at that. Ring a bell with anyone? No? Oh well. (041706c)

This report has it that this year promises the worst wildfire season ever, already the acreage burned is already five times the the average and we haven't seem summer yet. (041806c)

When a US government report says that 2005 was a record breaking year for terrorist activity and that 85% of the deaths due to terrorist action occurred in Iraq, will this get coverage? (042206g)

What does Scott Ritter have to say now a days? Plenty, about Iraq, Bush, Clinton, and even the peace movement. (042106d)

Want to have some fun with details? Remember the Niger/Yellow Cake/Wilson/Plame/CIA/Leak/Scooter Libby/Cheney/scandal? Here are two documents worth the reading, first the overview (042006e) and second, the documents referred to (042006f)

Does anyone remember how "the war would pay for itself" that "war is cheaper than continued containment" or how lowering the price of oil from its high, pre war mind, of 37 dollars a barrel and that things would go so well we'd have big tax cuts coming. (042106e.)

How did we manage to keep out of Kyoto or anything related to it? How did we "overcome' the "greenies" (041606d) 

And just a typical payola scheme, if you helped Bushwhackoff in Florida during the 2000 fiasco, you got your props and then some dough to go (042006g)

Warmongering in the press, a description of one case shows how far it has gone (042006b) and more of the same with CondiGirl quotes thrown in yet already (042006c)

Russia, a recent poll has it that 57% of them feel that the US is a "threat to global security" (041606b) In another story we get a picture of a substantial racist "tide" that has resulted in killings (041606c) The juxtapositioning of these two stories has me wondering what kind of government would be "electable" in Russia if they could tap both those sentiments and how such a government would "act" in the region.

So, China's leader comes to the US and nothing much is done. One headline read "agreed to disagree" The next day China's leader goes to Saudi Arabia and they wheel and deal, make speeches, sign agreements and so forth and so on. (042206e)

Why generals are "revolting" (041706f) Is it time for bushwhackoff to "go for" the "Hail Mary" play to beat all "Hail Mary" plays? (042106c)

Here is a set of pages that one might peruse, the first has to do with the sciences that understand the nature of the collapse of the twin towers.(042206b) Soon after 9/11 several of the hijackers, who were supposed to be dead you'll recall, protested their innocence from abroad. so who was taking their place? (042206c) And then there is the stock market where "unusual bets were placed" against the airline companies involved and insurance companies as well. (042206d)

Hugo Chavez is investing in his nation's people, what if other people's found out? (042106g)

Using sewage as a power source? Leave it to Norway to figure such a profitable scheme a trick that can be used in any city (042106f)

I inaugurate a new headline section, the "Great War" will contain stories having to do with the new "East and West" struggle first:

The Muddle East:

Palestine/Israel:

A potential for civil war in ... Palestine? Yup, with the money squeeze draining things dry chaos may have a larger and larger role (043006g) And here are more details on why there is "no deal" and no money getting through from others (043006h)

Our NeoCons get their big win only to have it squandered for them because, well, the wrong people won the election (042706f) Hamas has survival issues, Canada disappoints and crisis looms (042706g)

The Greater Muddle East

Persian Gulf states are stuck as Iran and the US tug at them. Which way should they go? The interesting part of this article is that it says no one takes the US threat of war against Iran seriously. We shall see soon enough. (042606)

Saudi Arabia: they see the great divide between Sunni and Shia (042606h)

Afghanistan:

Iraq:

It is unbelievable how money is wasted in Iraq! No it isn't and here is a stellar, if small example in four parts: part one (042506a) part two (042506b) part three (042506c) and part four (042506d)

Kikurk hasn't been in the news for some time; it is now. It seems that Sadr's Mahdi Army is making a move into the burg to counter Kurdish influence which means, more violence there (042406x)

Read the first part of this article, it reminds you of what we were led to believe would happen in Iraq. Fantasyland indeed! (042406p)

Iraq's new "main man" wants to reign in militias, but he is supported by two of them, one with Iranian connections and the other with Sadr all over it , but at least he's saying the right things. (042406d)

Could we possibly have another worrisome issue raised in Iraq? Why, yes we can! It seems Turkey and Iran have built up a military presence on Iraq's borders. They both want to "deal with the Kurds" but one wonders how they intend do do just that. (042306c)

Portrait of combat in Ramadi. It is nowhere near pacified despite the fact that open clashes are rare. (042306d)

Iran:

Is anyone surprised at the news that Iran refused to stop enriching uranium? Not I said the fox. (043006c) Page two has a McCain comment (043006d) On page three Russia waffles and China seems to disagree, still, with sanctions (043006e)

At the 11th hour CondiGirl talks about credibility, fancy that, regarding the security council, Iran and the nuclear issue not much information here, just the word "credibility" and Rice in a headline. Ok, ok stop laughing (042706a) Russia, meanwhile, seems to have no really good option in this situation regarding sanctions whether they support, abstain or veto problems will arise. (042706b)

Iran and Korea, working together for security and peace. That's spelled m-i-s-s-i-l-e-s. (042706d)

This article mentions, in passing, that October 06 is the date for an attack on Iran. It also suggests another reason for the attack and why Arab governments in the area are amenable to it and why they are visiting Pakistan (042306i)

If we ARE going into Iran why are we telegraphing our intent, plans, techniques and so forth? What is up with all that? (042306h)

So there is an alternative "trade zone" developing and, guess what, it involves Cuba, who would have thought, and Venezuela helping out its "friendly neighbors" with oil. (043006a) Yes the partnership is limited, part two (043006b)

China's Hu on a something of a world tour makes a stop in Nigeria. Oil is on the agenda and trade, of course. No word on what the US "is doing about this continuous expansion" of China's influence in the world. (042706c)

China's ever expanding role in the world has taken another step. Closer ties with the Vatican mean loosening ties with Taiwan. (042306e)

Let's look at Earth Day, Bushwhackoff style: Easing air quality restrictions is part of this story, (042606a) And tearing up the landscape, just a bit (042606b) He, his staff, or some such showed themselves just a tad insensitive (042606c)

A kind of a debate is going on regarding the right to dissent during war time. A range of opinions are compared. (042506f)

Let's do the numbers: C02 emissions, global warming areas cover the globe (042406f) What is for dinner? Oh, no, not "rain forest again!" (042406h) Hurricane seasons compared, it can't go on like this, certainly (042406i) A portrait of C02 how it is contributed (042406j) The water picture, is less more? (042406k) Have we improved gas mileage in 30 some odd years? Uh, nope. (042406l) Retreat of the ice cap (042406m) And one more C02 chart (042406n)

African tyrants, one is brought low simply because the US threatened to withhold assistant programs to any of his neighbors who helped him continue on. The trick worked. It shows what can be done and how easily - why are other despots allowed to continue festering? Anyone's guess is as good as mine, but I'm not talking (042306f) And here is something of a survey of those kind of individuals about the world today. (042306g)

Oh, by the way, this war goes terribly. Stats are in and they aren't pretty. (043006i)

Portly Gross, I mean Porter Goss, has some house cleaning to do, not that he will, he's to busy squelching anyone who puts the welfare of the US and its constitution ahead of his pig headed, "I'm a jackass in your face" kind of management style. (042606g)

No charges, no trial, no release? Well that's what you get for being in the wrong place at the wrong time, a vacation in "Club Guantanamo" (042506e)

Bin Laden tries to keep relevant? (042406b) Are they a spend force? (042406c) and Terror Statistics show a increase from 2004 to 2005 this means we're winning correct? (042406e)

An interesting point here a study of presidencies has illuminated patterns. the pattern that Bushwhackoff has is, not unsurprisingly, the one which would have us be the most concerned. He's right in there with LBJ, Nixon, Wilson and Hoover. The bad news is we have more to come. (042606e)

How is our economy anyway, not good according to this article's facts and figures. (042606d)

Has America ceased to be "great"? Have we ceased to be "good"? As Alexis de Tocqueville once had it? Are we radicals now? (042506g)

What is the "American Dream?" This article speculates on its simple basis and what may be coming when "the party's over." (042406o) Meanwhile the general's still speak to power (042506h) And there is more found here (042506i)

Do we have a democratic alternative to the repugicans? Sure we have "Bush Lite" the Dems seem to think an election about "nothing much" will work. It is amazing to me that titanic mistakes, vast corruption, incompetence, and more are not issues being raised, that leaves, well, nothing much. (042406f)

Even the investigations into the "intel problems or other such things" which led the US to go to war in Iraq, are tainted, that is to say, it was cherry picked, only this time to assist in a cover up. (042406a)

Well it is fun to go back and look at the scrapbook, as it were. Here are a couple of URLs to pages that feature photos from the Pentagon on that fateful day a few years back. One wonders, still, how the "explanation" the world was given was accepted - as accepted it was. No matter, apparently, even nonprofessionals can take apart the photos distributed in the press or on television to put together a puzzle the 9/11 commission cold not. Here is the first site (042306a) and here is the second, (042306b) peaceful dreams.

Some motion for impeachment, using an little known procedure where the motion can be introduced by a state legislature through its representative, but it is way to little and far to late. The agenda for further aggression, I believe, has been set 042706h)

05/06//06

I inaugurate a new headline section, the "Great War" will contain stories having to do with the new "East and West" struggle first:

The Muddle East:

Palestine/Israel:

The Greater Muddle East

This story involves Turkey, Iran and Iraq. The latter two have built up troops near or about the "tri-state" border region. Iraq can only complain about it. The Kurds are becoming active, that's the excuse for the troops, but Iranians shelling Iraq rebel bases is the headline. Interesting that they say the PKK is who they are shelling, a group we've listed as terrorists but now hailed as allies in the liberators of Iran - at least in other stories. (050106a)

Afghanistan:

This country's circumstances deteriorate, we spend many many millions and get all that corruption can buy, which isn't much save growing enmity from the people we went there to "save" (050606e)

Times are changing here, the US is set to withdraw and hand off to NATO, who won't handle the country in the same way, provinces have fallen to the resistance and, well, more fighting is to come. (050306b)

Iraq:

The "Shiite Friends" of the US are not as friendly as they used to be. We need their continue peaceful deportment so we can focus on the active rebellion of the Sunni's (050606h)

The infrastructure used to export Iraqi oil is "not really up to code" and vulnerable because it all goes to the same place (050306c)

Ramadi, just a glimpse into how we defend a road which is part of a supply route. (050206a) Japan is talking about the withdrawal of some of its forces from Iraq, gee I wonder why that is? (050206b) Sunni resistance targets Iranian goods being sold in their areas. (050106j)

Slowly the US military plays "catch up" we are finally admitting there is sectarian violence but deny that tens of thousands have become displaced (043006s)

Iran:

The US, Iran and realpolitik ... interesting (050406i) Meanwhile Russia and China "dig in their heels" against Chapter 7 provisions. (050606b) part two of the story (050606c) and part three (050606d)

According to this article Hillary Clinton is more of a hawk on Iran than most repuglickans. (050306d) She's voices support for a "quick strike" (050306e)

Here is the quote: "The head of the Republican Party said Tuesday that Iran's nuclear program threatens Israel, the Jewish people and the United States, and we must confront an evil ideology head on." Thanks Ken (050206e) And they say they've found new deposits of ore (050206f)

Bushwhackoff calls Putin and chats him up regarding action on Iran. Rice mentions "chapter 7" type sanctions, which include military action. Russia does not seem to be interested. (050106b) Will Israel sit "idly by" as Iran proceeds? (050106c)

Rice the "punisher" says we can "work outside of " the UN if its security council doesn't act the US won't wait. (043006t) And we are concerned as to how "Iran speaks", page two, (043006u)

Pakistan:

Time grows short, both sides or rather all the sides in Pakistan gear up for more action they are on the line, the fence, the hot seat - you name it; they're on it (050406h)

Could the government be loosing control of the situations in various parts of the country, the west, north, south, east, southwest and northwest for example, this story is from Waziristan and environs (050406b)

The Greater Islamic regions:

Nigeria's struggle continues, losses are significant and there is no end in sight for now. (050406d)

Though this story could be placed in other sections, it highlights China's newest move on the world stage regarding Iran and the importance of central Asia. (043006k) Chinese "spies" in Canada seeking technology (043006m)

Meanwhile the US is making its own moves and plans, of which the "temporary bases" in Iraq may well become integral to a "continental strategy" (043006l)

About half our wadeable streams are polluted, that is the finding, now what do you think Bushwhackoff will do about it? (050606a)

Trade winds fade? It seems so. Global warming weakens the "Walker circulation" and, by implication, others. Over a century of data supports this, the consequence is that rainfall patterns will change and so will the "fertility" of oceanic areas affected, the circulation mentioned runs between South American and Indonesia. (050406a)

Changes both global and local have put stress on eco systems world wide. Global warming gets the attention but there are other factors which put thousands of species at risk. (050206c)

How the press "does it" to anyone who criticizes our "Fearless Leader" Dat wily ol' Bushwhackoff in Chief dat is, he be ly-in' and folks be dy-in' but his attack moufs keep barkin' up de wrong tree, yahs-sir. (050206g) Why do we not know about depleted uranium? Here's why: (050206k)

If I read this article correctly, and I do, it means that billions live in nations which do not have a reasonable measure of freedom of the press (050206d)

I guess no one much heard the Bush impersonator getting his yucks off at the expense of a all to present Bushwhacky, who did not laugh at these lines, one wonders why... (050106i)

Well it is a "extravagantly delicious entree" for our "hungry reporters." The recipe: Hookers, Congressmen, Money, Lobbyists and to cap it all off, the Watergate complex. Hooya, lets see some hoopla on this one (050106h)

South America continues on its own way, creating an "Axis of good" (050606g)

Gang members in the armed forces, interesting problem, vis a vis the lowering of standards for recruitment. Blowback anyone? (050206i)

Just a little statistical look at the "signing statements" Bushwhackoff uses to deny the legality of laws that he signs. I guess this has to do with "that constitution thing", whatever... (050106g)

The lowdown on the Lodi terror ring, or is it three ring - as in circus? (050306g)

Abuses of prisoners, what are the stats on "fixing the problem" that is to say, how well have prosecutions fared? Ignore the fact that the chain of command was not investigated thoroughly, and the graphic is, well, graphic. (050106e) And here is the word on that, including some details. (050106f)

A new report shows that torture by US and allied forces continues despite US law, but then maybe Bushwackoff used one of his signing statements, who knows? (050306a)

Medicare and Social Security the twin pillars for the safety net we use to assist our elderly. Look at how Bushwhackoff manages the personnel, described in this story, how he disregards congress and does what he wants, in microcosm the macrocosm. (050606x)

The US has been involved with the "management" of over 200 "regime changes" between the time WW2 ended and 9/11. Not one of them produced a democracy. A number of cases our "dictator" was overthrown and then a real election took place. So with a track record such as this we can expect great things from Iraq, can't we? (050406f) If you want a list of our "regime changes and related lists, go here for an eyeful (050406g) And here is one more article that supports the prior one and puts some of the information in context (050406j)

What about our "Apocalypse Now" moment in Iraq? Civilian casualties mount and so does the resistance, what's up with that? (050406c)

Real money, by that I mean gold, has been doing well lately, up 60% in a year this article says, yet the perfect storm of circumstances which might have our economy, and the world's, tank is yet to congeal, or are we waiting for a match? (050306f)

Putting Canada "under our thumb" if not overtly, then covertly, quietly and hopefully without anyone taking or making note (050206j)

In case you need a refreshing overview of Bushwhackoff's overstepping constitutional bounds and ruining this nation both at home and abroad, here is a short article that brings one, well, up short. (050206h)

The steppingstone to war, the "Iran Freedom Support Act" another time when so many democrats just went along, even some who are, I guess, nominally "antiwar". Oh well, that is the way it goes. (050106d)

Regarding the articles on China, and the overarching policy of containing any potential rival, or rather preventing the rise of any rival, we see an assessment of how an attack on Iran could "undo the US" (043006o)

Predatory capitalism, nice phrase, yes? When such "behavior or practice" become the norm capitalism crumbles (043006q) A new "social contract" is needed, for example in the "NAFTA Zone" (043006r)

More on the Nordic "Fossil Free Fuel" story (043006j) Also how Russia and the G8 may be "busting out a move" on the issue (043006p)

I inaugurate a new headline section, the "Great War" will contain stories having to do with the new "East and West" struggle first:

The Muddle East:

Palestine/Israel:

Israel intent on keeping the Jordan Valley, in microcosm the whole shebang is reprised in this pitiful tale of settlers and geopolitics (050806c)

The Greater Muddle East

Egypt:

I guess our democratizing ally Egypt is sure showing progress in beating back peaceful demonstrators (051106l) And beating back other democracy protesters as well (051206n)

Iraq:

In Tal Afar, "a model of our successful strategy in Iraq" bombs go off, air strikes happen and sectarian killing is on the uptick. Yup, sounds like progress to me. (051106c)

Sectarian killing: the evidence mounts, just ask Baghdad's morgue (050706a) So why not just cut the country into pieces, that is what is being touted by some conservatives, "destroy it to save it" (051006e)

Iran:

Does the "balloon go up" in a few weeks? Rumors run, aircraft carrier groups head for Iran and well rumors fly (051206c) and here is a report on a "war game" run by a man who knows such, having to deal with Iran, part one (051206d) part two (051206e) part three (051206f) part four (051206g) part five (051206h) and part six (051206i)

So if it's not about oil, nukes or Iraq, what is the reason for attacking Iran ... surprise ... surprise, read on (051206j)

Here is a story that gets play: Iran asks for bombs from Pakistan, a threat to Israel is touted and more (051206b)

I like articles like this, lots of named quotes so that, in a few years, we'll be able to look back and see who called which of the shots as to the future of the current diplomatic debacle that is the dysfunctional US Iran relationship. (051106k)

An insightful overview of the Iran situation now that the "letter has been read" and "nothing" has changed. Realpolitik, geopolitics, oil, insurance and more all concise (051106a) Also, Ahmadinejad did not say he'd" wipe Israel off the face of the map", according to this article the translation of what was said goes something like this: "This regime occupying Jerusalem must vanish from the page of time" But the spin factor, well they had to "spice it up for the press gang. (051106b)

One cannot say the Iranians or their leader isn't smart, a deft move it's called, a trump card, hardly but still it gained time and wiggle room (050806d) However, together, Iran and the US have managed to make matters worse and even intractable, appearing (051006a)

Indonesia supports Iran's peaceful use of nuclear power the article makes a connection however muted that its a quid pro quo (050806a)

A quick and rational look at the Iran vs. US nuclear issue - what is all the fuss when greater threats loom and we do nada, zip, zero, nil and so forth (050706d) Tony "blah blah" Blair says nuking Iran is nuts, so if we go in - we go in alone? (050805b)

The Greater Islamic regions:

Uzbekistan, just another unstable central Asian nation, a target of US manipulation? A horrid dictator? Go for two out of three, it's your choice (051106h)

The Baluchistani part of Pakistan, another "indigenous people rising against oil and infastrucure" Terrorism against anti terrorism specialist forces (051106j) howzaboutdemappleshuh?

Just an object lesson, water is supposed to be clear, by itself. If it's purple or red perhaps it's not best for swimming or other recreations? (051106i)

Simple butterflies, are they just another "canary in the mine shaft"? The article does not state what the consequences would be for a butterfly die down. (051006d)

The press seems to pad along after a whacko Bushwhackoff regarding its coverage of the Iranian "threats" while ignoring rather large truths which are inconvenient. If we attack Iran and there is severe blow back, will the press then wake up? Will the US population demand a real press corps? (051206k)

Bushwhackoff's defenders claim that "other presidents did some wiretapping" With jackass like logic they say, yup that means it's OK. Well it doesn't and here are the three leading reasons why. (051106d) and the man Bushwhackoff wants to run the CIA, Hayden, doesn't know illegal wiretapping is illegal and is worthless besides (051106e) But he does know his bippies or bidets...seriously.

Prying the lid off an "unpleasant reality" that has been hammered down tight for about a half century, that is debating the US relationship to Israel. How to stop the debate? Call any questioner an Anti-Semite (050706c)

190 Nations meet up to talk climate and global warming, the US is participating ... sort of ... taking of a back seat (051306b) and part two (051306c) and part three (051306d)

Meanwhile the evidence is stronger that we've heated the world and that the rate of change is faster than we've been thinking it is (051306e) and part two (051306f)

What's this, a free trade agreement forming between the EU, Caribbean nations and some from South America? Yup, chalk up another by product of the Bushwhackoff's jackass administration gone wild. (051306a)

The pattern of urban development the "exurbs" as it were, where most of the population growth is likely to occur are, well, slums or worse. (051106f)

These recruiters really went the extra mile and the autistic 18 year old will make an excellent cavalry scout, you Betcha! (051006b)

A good question: What do we owe the American Indigenous People? Is it in the millions? Could it be billions? I heard about this lawsuit some time ago and now the punch line to the whole article is the last line, good writing (050606j)

On the home front, we seem to be fighting amongst ourselves and incompetently at that, millions of phone calls filed and searched through (051206l) But it's OK Bushwhackoff says its all legal, not bothering to cite any constitutional or other basis (051206o) US, read Bushwhackoff, goes to the mat to defend AT&T's giving up data (051306g) And parsing Bushwhackoff's words (051306h)

Helicopters are an important "workhorse" in Afghanistan's operations, this one may have been shot down, it is an indication of how "bloody" the theater can become if the region heats up. (050606l)

What's this I hear, even more security problems with the diebold machines? Seems like the hole in the system is big enough to drive elections through. (051206m)

Just one more instance where reality is inconvenient to policy makers and we see evidence that abstinence based sexuality programs are ... uh ... backfiring (051106g)

Nancy Pelosi seems to have motivated the party base, unfortunately it was not her party's (051006c) Maybe she's warming up with some "clever ideas" wouldn't that be nice? What is the "real danger" of the Bushwhackoff administration? It will be their legacy ... unfortunately (050706f)

A nice and concise overview of why FEMA and DHS are as dysfunctional as they are and provided disastrous management of a disaster. (050706e)

Leading toward the left, "Latin America" goes one more step (051206a)

This story is apt here, US intel is so busy worrying about "Muslim Bomb" in Iran that we fail to see the possibility or consider the consequences of a Latino Bomb. Brazil has made progress, not a bomb, yet, just enriching (050606k) And a concise overview of the "restiveness" as it might be called by SouthCom's Craddock. Bases anyone? (050806e)

Bush has low poll numbers, that is clear, however, the key in this article is the point that half the people polled said that "Bush is not a factor" when deciding who they'll vote for in 06. (050706b) The Dems seem optimistic, however I am not. I predict the Repuglicans will hold onto congress and maybe even make a gain or two. Oh and no, I won't tell you why.

I inaugurate a new headline section, the "Great War" will contain stories having to do with the new "East and West" struggle first:

The Greater Muddle East

Egypt:

A debate over aid to Egypt concerning its treatment of protesters and lack of progress toward democracy. There are "concerns" (051906a) part tow makes it clear that the "terror war" trumps that concern, and we still use dollar diplomacy (051906b)

Afghanistan:

For 18 months now the violence has been on the uptick, the story has some recent details. (052006b)

The car bomb problem is established in this country and UN forces are being targeted (051606b) An uptick in violence as US forces transition out and NATO enters in (051806j) And how western projects are bleeding the Afghan govt. white (051806l)

Iraq:

Now that a "government" is formed take a look at this bit of background for the new prime minister (052006a)

When you think that it cannot get worse, along comes some more bad news, amazing! Killing of innocents? (051806n)

Mosque bombing in Baqouba, Sunnis and Shiites both take part in the destruction, a cycle of retaliation seems underway (051806f) A weekend's worth of Iraqi violence and special note Basra seems to be in chaos, no one seems to be in control, not the British anyway who are supposed to be, not the governor or the state (051506q)

The "Battle of Baghdad" continues: casualties, a helicopter downed, accusations of innocents being targeted - the usual mess. (051506e) part two (051506f) part three (051506g) part four (051506h)

The Greater Islamic regions:

News from the Russian front, the "Chechnyan region" has the car bomb problem beginning to spread (051606a)

Colombia faces renewed attacks on oil infrastructure? (051906c) Russian energy infrastructure and bullying tactics with its unstable neighbors is a volatile mix and no one really gives the situation much attention (051906e)

Food productions, globally, is outpaced by consumption, while in some places surpasses mount in those same places farmers need to use food banks. A skewed system allows starvation to mount all while solutions exist. (051806m)