US juries get verdict wrong in one of six cases: study - Yahoo! News: "So much for US justice: juries get the verdict wrong in one out of six criminal cases and judges don't do much better, a new study has found.
And when they make those mistakes, both judges and juries are far more likely to send an innocent person to jail than to let a guilty person go free, according to an upcoming study out of Northwestern University."
What ever happened to "beyond a reasonable doubt?"
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Vaccinated Children Two and a Half Times More Likely to Have Neurological Disorders : TruthEra.com - Conspiracy Discussion & Alternative News
Vaccinated Children Two and a Half Times More Likely to Have Neurological Disorders : TruthEra.com - Conspiracy Discussion & Alternative News: "For older vaccinated boys in the 11-17 age bracket, the results were even more pronounced. Vaccinated boys were 158% more likely to have a neurological disorder, 317% more likely to have ADHD, and 112% more likely to have autism. Complete survey results are available at http://www.generationrescue.org/."
This is what happens when laws are written requiring vaccination, prodded by corporate lobbyists, and those same lobbyists pad the pockets of those who are supposed to oversee the safety of the pharmaceutical industry. One of the prime examples of this is the controversy over the new cervical cancer vaccine. States are pushing it into the pool of required vaccinations, when there is no information on possible long-term effects.
This is what happens when laws are written requiring vaccination, prodded by corporate lobbyists, and those same lobbyists pad the pockets of those who are supposed to oversee the safety of the pharmaceutical industry. One of the prime examples of this is the controversy over the new cervical cancer vaccine. States are pushing it into the pool of required vaccinations, when there is no information on possible long-term effects.
US Government ignored its own Katrina plans, DHS documents show | Press Esc
US Government ignored its own Katrina plans, DHS documents show | Press Esc: "Documents obtained through Freedom of Information Act requests to DHS and subsequent legal action show that FEMA forecast New Orleans would be flooded with 14-17 feet of water and the levee system inundated with at least 10 feet of water and the hurricane would move into Mississippi.
FEMA had predicted that one million people would evacuate, but flooding would trap at least 250-350,000, and each hurricane victim would require a minimum of two Meals Ready to Eat, one gallon of water and eight pounds of ice per day."
It is 2 years later now, New Orleans is still not fully rebuilt, and the levees are ready to break again. I wonder if they will be able to follow the plan the next time? That's right, Bush will just use the excuse to declare martial law, and he will have troops on the ground, as well as mercenaries. He will declare war on the hurricane and the people...
FEMA had predicted that one million people would evacuate, but flooding would trap at least 250-350,000, and each hurricane victim would require a minimum of two Meals Ready to Eat, one gallon of water and eight pounds of ice per day."
It is 2 years later now, New Orleans is still not fully rebuilt, and the levees are ready to break again. I wonder if they will be able to follow the plan the next time? That's right, Bush will just use the excuse to declare martial law, and he will have troops on the ground, as well as mercenaries. He will declare war on the hurricane and the people...
WorldNetDaily: New gun control: Shut down shops
WorldNetDaily: New gun control: Shut down shops: "'Imagine having your driver's license revoked because you did not completely spell out the word 'no' when answering a 'yes' or 'no' question on your application five years ago,' his petition asks.
He told WND the inspectors begin with efforts to locate any petty violation they can, usually clerical mistakes. 'They list these errors as 'willful' which Congress set in the wording to protect FFL dealers,' he said. 'The dealer's Federal Firearms License is then revoked and the dealer must enter an appeals process which is extremely unfair.'"
I used to work for a large department store selling long rifles and shotguns behind the sporting goods counter. When filling out the application, absolutely no mistakes were allowed. Everything must be spelled absolutely correctly, there can be no abbreviations, and there could be no corrections. If any of these were present, the form would have to be thrown away, and a new one filled out. Then after that process, my manager would have to double check the work, then we would have to contact the FBI for the background check. If anything on the form was incorrect, and the firearm was sold, we would face prosecution. Customers would have to wait for days sometimes to be cleared, and there was no explanation when they were not cleared to buy. God forbid if the gun was put on layaway, the customer faced losing a significant amount of money if denied the sale. Now, this was a long time before 9/11, I wonder how much worse it is now?
He told WND the inspectors begin with efforts to locate any petty violation they can, usually clerical mistakes. 'They list these errors as 'willful' which Congress set in the wording to protect FFL dealers,' he said. 'The dealer's Federal Firearms License is then revoked and the dealer must enter an appeals process which is extremely unfair.'"
I used to work for a large department store selling long rifles and shotguns behind the sporting goods counter. When filling out the application, absolutely no mistakes were allowed. Everything must be spelled absolutely correctly, there can be no abbreviations, and there could be no corrections. If any of these were present, the form would have to be thrown away, and a new one filled out. Then after that process, my manager would have to double check the work, then we would have to contact the FBI for the background check. If anything on the form was incorrect, and the firearm was sold, we would face prosecution. Customers would have to wait for days sometimes to be cleared, and there was no explanation when they were not cleared to buy. God forbid if the gun was put on layaway, the customer faced losing a significant amount of money if denied the sale. Now, this was a long time before 9/11, I wonder how much worse it is now?
Psychiatrists Top List in Drug Maker Gifts - New York Times
Psychiatrists Top List in Drug Maker Gifts - New York Times: "Vermont officials disclosed Tuesday that drug company payments to psychiatrists in the state more than doubled last year, to an average of $45,692 each from $20,835 in 2005. Antipsychotic medicines are among the largest expenses for the state’s Medicaid program."
Unfortunately, I have seen this behavior in action. Need an anti-depressant? Drug X is paying the most right now, so that is what everyone gets. Anti-psychotic? You get Drug Y, even if drug W may be a better choice. Are you all drugged up and feeling sluggish? You get drug Z, which is a prescription stimulant. Feel like your heart is going to explode now? Sorry, your 5 minutes of my time is up now, where is my 3:25?
Unfortunately, I have seen this behavior in action. Need an anti-depressant? Drug X is paying the most right now, so that is what everyone gets. Anti-psychotic? You get Drug Y, even if drug W may be a better choice. Are you all drugged up and feeling sluggish? You get drug Z, which is a prescription stimulant. Feel like your heart is going to explode now? Sorry, your 5 minutes of my time is up now, where is my 3:25?
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
Scholars urge Bush to ban use of torture - Yahoo! News
Scholars urge Bush to ban use of torture - Yahoo! News: "President Bush was presented with a letter Monday signed by 50 high school seniors in the Presidential Scholars program urging a halt to 'violations of the human rights' of terror suspects held by the United States.
The White House said Bush had not expected the letter but took a moment to read it and talk with a young woman who handed it to him."
They are probably headed to Gitmo to join the detainees now. I wish I could have seen Bush's face.
The White House said Bush had not expected the letter but took a moment to read it and talk with a young woman who handed it to him."
They are probably headed to Gitmo to join the detainees now. I wish I could have seen Bush's face.
FBI wants students to stop travelling
FBI wants students to stop travelling: "THE FBI IS visiting the nation's top technical universities in a bid to stop students taking their holidays outside the country.
MIT, Boston College, and the University of Massachusetts, have all had a visit from the spooks to warn them about the dangers of foreign spies and terrorists stealing sensitive academic research.
The FBI wants the universities to impose rules that will stop US university students from working late at the campus, travelling abroad, showing an interest in their colleagues' work, or have friends outside the United States, engaging in independent research, or making extra money without the prior consent of the authorities."
Wow, the FBI is being just a little paranoid here. Not to mention, these students will be loosing educational opportunities and their rights will be restricted.
Norman Mineta Confirms His Testimony with Members of 911TruthSeattle.org
Norman Mineta Confirms His Testimony with Members of 911TruthSeattle.org: "At a bare minimum, this confirmation by Norman Mineta is in gross contradiction to the 9/11 Commission Report and poses serious questions about the Vice President's role in ordering NORAD to stand down on 9/11."
He conveniently read the minds of the terrorists and determined that the "attack" was over...
He conveniently read the minds of the terrorists and determined that the "attack" was over...
Think Progress » CNN Dumps Michael Moore For Paris Hilton
Think Progress » CNN Dumps Michael Moore For Paris Hilton: "CNN, the 'most trusted name in Paris news,' continues to sink to new lows in its 'assault on reason.' Hilton is the latest 'serial obsession,' though the network recently hired a reporter devoted to 'covering things like Britney, as well as the Michael Jackson memorabilia.' Now CNN has ditched coverage of America’s broken health care system in favor of an hour-long interview of an incarcerated socialite."
What the hell is wrong with this country? CNN drops Moore because Paris will get better ratings. I enjoy watching some TV shows, but in the end it is obvious that television has destroyed this country. News has been dumbed down to 3-second clips for short attention spans, when it comes to important events, and the rest of the time is filled with useless celebrity gossip. Who is watching this crap?
What the hell is wrong with this country? CNN drops Moore because Paris will get better ratings. I enjoy watching some TV shows, but in the end it is obvious that television has destroyed this country. News has been dumbed down to 3-second clips for short attention spans, when it comes to important events, and the rest of the time is filled with useless celebrity gossip. Who is watching this crap?
Sunday, June 24, 2007
New study from Pilots for 9/11 Truth: No Boeing 757 hit the Pentagon - Yahoo! News
New study from Pilots for 9/11 Truth: No Boeing 757 hit the Pentagon - Yahoo! News: "Pilots for 9/11 Truth obtained black box data from the government under the Freedom of Information Act for AA Flight 77, which The 9/11 Report claims hit the Pentagon. Analysis of the data contradicts the official account in direction, approach, and altitude. The plane was too high to hit lamp posts and would have flown over the Pentagon, not impacted with its ground floor. This result confirms and strengthens the previous findings of Scholars for 9/11 Truth that no Boeing 757 hit the buillding."
Notice: This is From YAHOO news, not some random "conspiracy nut" site. These guys have the OFFICIAL black box data. They have hard evidence that a Boeing 757 NEVER hit the Pentagon. I bet the truth is locked up in Cheney's man-size safes, that happen to not be part of the executive branch, according to him, anyway. This just reinforces my belief that 9/11 was an inside job...
Notice: This is From YAHOO news, not some random "conspiracy nut" site. These guys have the OFFICIAL black box data. They have hard evidence that a Boeing 757 NEVER hit the Pentagon. I bet the truth is locked up in Cheney's man-size safes, that happen to not be part of the executive branch, according to him, anyway. This just reinforces my belief that 9/11 was an inside job...
The Raw Story | Cheney ordered Secret Service logs destroyed, paper reports
The Raw Story | Cheney ordered Secret Service logs destroyed, paper reports: "A massive piece in Sunday's Washington Post reveals the true extent of secrecy Vice President Dick Cheney requires.
So clandestine is the Vice President's work that he has created a new secret document designation: 'Treated As: Top Secret/SCI.'
That's not all: the piece also reveals that Cheney keeps 'man-size' Mosler safes on hand for 'workaday business' and has destroyed all Secret Service visitor logs, in addition to already refusing to comply with a national security directive issued by President Bush, which RAW STORY first reported earlier this week.
Not only does he refuse to give the names of his staff, Cheney won't even disclose how many people he employs."
Wow, can you say "shadow government?" Cheney is the man behind the curtain, a figure who's influence and power cannot be measured due to his obsessive drive towards secrecy. He is the most powerful Vice President that the United States has ever had, and we don't even know what he is really doing in the shadows.
So clandestine is the Vice President's work that he has created a new secret document designation: 'Treated As: Top Secret/SCI.'
That's not all: the piece also reveals that Cheney keeps 'man-size' Mosler safes on hand for 'workaday business' and has destroyed all Secret Service visitor logs, in addition to already refusing to comply with a national security directive issued by President Bush, which RAW STORY first reported earlier this week.
Not only does he refuse to give the names of his staff, Cheney won't even disclose how many people he employs."
Wow, can you say "shadow government?" Cheney is the man behind the curtain, a figure who's influence and power cannot be measured due to his obsessive drive towards secrecy. He is the most powerful Vice President that the United States has ever had, and we don't even know what he is really doing in the shadows.
Saturday, June 23, 2007
AlterNet: War on Iraq: U.S. Officials Have Absolutely No Clue about Iraq's Oil Law
AlterNet: War on Iraq: U.S. Officials Have Absolutely No Clue about Iraq's Oil Law: "In Washington, lawmakers and military officials say that Iraq's new oil law is vital for the country's future. But, as one reporter learned, most have no idea what they're talking about."
Well, most of our congress members do not read the bills they pass for America, why would they even fathom reading a bill they are talking up for a country half way around the world?
Well, most of our congress members do not read the bills they pass for America, why would they even fathom reading a bill they are talking up for a country half way around the world?
Guantanamo kept open for 'humane reasons' | Press Esc
Guantanamo kept open for 'humane reasons' | Press Esc: "United States President George W. Bush is keeping Guantanamo open until he figures out a way to ensure that the detainees are treated humanely once they are repatriated, a White House spokeswoman told the reporters yesterday."
So, after years of torture and imprisonment, Bush has decided he cannot close Gitmo until he gets assurances that they will be treated humanely in their home countries? What kind of doublespeak is this? What an arrogant moron.
So, after years of torture and imprisonment, Bush has decided he cannot close Gitmo until he gets assurances that they will be treated humanely in their home countries? What kind of doublespeak is this? What an arrogant moron.
The Raw Story | Democrats plan to cut Cheney out of executive funding bill
The Raw Story | Democrats plan to cut Cheney out of executive funding bill: "Following Vice President Dick Cheney's assertion that his office is not a part of the executive branch of the US government, Democratic Caucus Chairman Rep. Rahm Emanuel (D-IL) plans to introduce an amendment to the the Financial Services and General Government Appropriations bill to cut funding for Cheney's office.
The amendment to the bill that sets the funding for the executive branch will be considered next week in the House of Representatives."
I like this, finally someone with an imagination in congress. If he does not classify himself as part of the executive branch, Cheney will not get the funding he gets as part of the executive branch. Of course, our idiot congress will never get it passed.
The amendment to the bill that sets the funding for the executive branch will be considered next week in the House of Representatives."
I like this, finally someone with an imagination in congress. If he does not classify himself as part of the executive branch, Cheney will not get the funding he gets as part of the executive branch. Of course, our idiot congress will never get it passed.
Bush Claims Oversight Exemption Too
Bush Claims Oversight Exemption Too: " Washington - The White House said Friday that, like Vice President Dick Cheney's office, President Bush's office is not allowing an independent federal watchdog to oversee its handling of classified national security information.
An executive order that Bush issued in March 2003 - amending an existing order - requires all government agencies that are part of the executive branch to submit to oversight. Although it doesn't specifically say so, Bush's order was not meant to apply to the vice president's office or the president's office, a White House spokesman said."
Really, this should not surprise anyone. This administration has a long history of ignoring laws and the constitution. Now they are just being more blatant about it.
An executive order that Bush issued in March 2003 - amending an existing order - requires all government agencies that are part of the executive branch to submit to oversight. Although it doesn't specifically say so, Bush's order was not meant to apply to the vice president's office or the president's office, a White House spokesman said."
Really, this should not surprise anyone. This administration has a long history of ignoring laws and the constitution. Now they are just being more blatant about it.
Friday, June 22, 2007
US envoy: North ready to shut reactor - Yahoo! News
US envoy: North ready to shut reactor - Yahoo! News: "SEOUL, South Korea - North Korea is showing that it is ready to shut down its nuclear reactor, the top U.S. negotiator said Friday, adding to optimism that the communist government is intent on fulfilling its disarmament pledge."
They just don't want the nukes flying in their direction. We have Iran on our hit list, and it will very likely happen, especially if Cheney has his way...
They just don't want the nukes flying in their direction. We have Iran on our hit list, and it will very likely happen, especially if Cheney has his way...
NATO strike 'kills 25 civilians' - CNN.com
NATO strike 'kills 25 civilians' - CNN.com: "Taliban militants stormed police posts in southern Afghanistan, prompting heavy fighting and NATO air strikes that reportedly left 25 civilians and 20 militants dead, police said Friday.
NATO said it was investigating claims that nine women, three babies and a cleric were among those who perished in its bombardment, but blamed any casualties on the 'irresponsible' action of militants."
Yes, the militants were flying the planes, or perhaps they were psychically controlling the NATO pilots. Oh, well, more collateral damage...
NATO said it was investigating claims that nine women, three babies and a cleric were among those who perished in its bombardment, but blamed any casualties on the 'irresponsible' action of militants."
Yes, the militants were flying the planes, or perhaps they were psychically controlling the NATO pilots. Oh, well, more collateral damage...
One U.S. soldier who must be counted | Salon.com
One U.S. soldier who must be counted | Salon.com: "As of 10 a.m. EDT on Wednesday, 3,529 American military service members and civilian employees had died in Iraq, according to the Department of Defense. That prepositional distinction, 'in Iraq,' matters. On the same day, June 20, doctors withdrew life support from Army Cpl. Frank Sandoval, following complications from brain surgery for injuries he sustained in Iraq in 2005. He had been declared brain-dead several days prior. Sandoval didn't die in Baghdad or Fallujah; he died in a hospital in Palo Alto, Calif. But as of Thursday, Sandoval has not been included in the official tally by the Department of Defense."
This is a decent article reminding us that the official figures of those who died in Iraq are not necessarily accurate...
This is a decent article reminding us that the official figures of those who died in Iraq are not necessarily accurate...
WorldNetDaily: Your doctor could put you on no-gun list
WorldNetDaily: Your doctor could put you on no-gun list: "
Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, D-N.Y., announcing a provision to allow doctors to ban people from owning guns
The House of Representatives has fast-tracked new legislation to 'improve' the National Instant Criminal Background Check System by allowing doctors to now decide who can own firearms.
The proposal, H.R. 2640, was sponsored by U.S. Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, D-N.Y., in the wake of the April tragedy at Virginia Tech, when a gunman shot and killed more than 30 people, then killed himself.
McCarthy, whose own husband was killed in a random shooting on a commuter train in New York City in 1993, introduced the 'NICS Improvement Act,' which sailed through the House in three days."
Honestly, I don't think some prescription-pushing idiot, who has no more than 3 minutes to get to know me, should be deciding whether or not to violate my second-amendment rights. Let's hope this does not pass, because it would be very easy for the government to pressure doctors into using this law.
Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, D-N.Y., announcing a provision to allow doctors to ban people from owning guns
The House of Representatives has fast-tracked new legislation to 'improve' the National Instant Criminal Background Check System by allowing doctors to now decide who can own firearms.
The proposal, H.R. 2640, was sponsored by U.S. Rep. Carolyn McCarthy, D-N.Y., in the wake of the April tragedy at Virginia Tech, when a gunman shot and killed more than 30 people, then killed himself.
McCarthy, whose own husband was killed in a random shooting on a commuter train in New York City in 1993, introduced the 'NICS Improvement Act,' which sailed through the House in three days."
Honestly, I don't think some prescription-pushing idiot, who has no more than 3 minutes to get to know me, should be deciding whether or not to violate my second-amendment rights. Let's hope this does not pass, because it would be very easy for the government to pressure doctors into using this law.
Agency Is Target in Cheney Fight on Secrecy Data - New York Times
Agency Is Target in Cheney Fight on Secrecy Data - New York Times: "For four years, Vice President Dick Cheney has resisted routine oversight of his office’s handling of classified information, and when the National Archives unit that monitors classification in the executive branch objected, the vice president’s office suggested abolishing the oversight unit, according to documents released yesterday by a Democratic congressman."
This just keeps getting better. First he claims that he is not part of the executive branch, then he suggests dismantling the agency that was criticizing him. More evidence that Cheney is truly a madman.
This just keeps getting better. First he claims that he is not part of the executive branch, then he suggests dismantling the agency that was criticizing him. More evidence that Cheney is truly a madman.
Guantanamo meeting canceled after report closure is near - CNN.com
Guantanamo meeting canceled after report closure is near - CNN.com: "A White House meeting planned for Friday about the future of the Guantanamo Bay detention facility has been canceled after The Associated Press reported the Bush administration was 'nearing a decision' to close the center.
National Security Council spokesman Gordon Johndroe said there would be no meeting Friday, but he would not comment on the reasons for the cancellation
Earlier Thursday, AP reported that officials were close to a decision to shut down the facility in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and that the administration had scheduled a meeting to discuss a proposal to transfer the detainees to other military prisons.
Officials from the White House, the Pentagon and the Justice and State departments denied the AP report."
Well this is interesting... I wonder why it was canceled...
National Security Council spokesman Gordon Johndroe said there would be no meeting Friday, but he would not comment on the reasons for the cancellation
Earlier Thursday, AP reported that officials were close to a decision to shut down the facility in Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and that the administration had scheduled a meeting to discuss a proposal to transfer the detainees to other military prisons.
Officials from the White House, the Pentagon and the Justice and State departments denied the AP report."
Well this is interesting... I wonder why it was canceled...
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Decision near to close Guantanamo - Yahoo! News
Decision near to close Guantanamo - Yahoo! News: "The advisers will consider a new proposal to shut the center and transfer detainees to one or more Defense Department facilities, including the maximum security military prison at Fort Leavenworth in Kansas, where they could face trial, said the officials. They spoke on condition of anonymity because they were discussing internal deliberations."
Hiding these people in other prisons will not change the illegality of their unchallengeable detentions. Perhaps they will render most of them out of the country to hide the humanitarian abuses from onlookers.
Hiding these people in other prisons will not change the illegality of their unchallengeable detentions. Perhaps they will render most of them out of the country to hide the humanitarian abuses from onlookers.
Search Results - THOMAS (Library of Congress)
Search Results - THOMAS (Library of Congress): "A BILL
To abolish the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Federal reserve banks, to repeal the Federal Reserve Act, and for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,"
This is a bill sponsored by Ron Paul that would dismantle the Federal Reserve System. It will never pass, but at least someone in the congress is willing to take a stand against that corrupt system. Go Ron Paul!!! I am liking this guy more and more.
To abolish the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Federal reserve banks, to repeal the Federal Reserve Act, and for other purposes.
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled,"
This is a bill sponsored by Ron Paul that would dismantle the Federal Reserve System. It will never pass, but at least someone in the congress is willing to take a stand against that corrupt system. Go Ron Paul!!! I am liking this guy more and more.
Did Hitler unleash the Holocaust because a Jewish prostitute gave him syphilis? | the Daily Mail
Did Hitler unleash the Holocaust because a Jewish prostitute gave him syphilis? | the Daily Mail: "A brief encounter with a Jewish prostitute may have led to Hitler's genocidal Holocaust, claim psychiatrists.
They believe he may have caught the sexually transmitted disease syphilis which, if untreated, can eventually cause madness.
According to a report, mental and behavioural disturbances triggered by the advanced stages of the disease could have resulted in Hitler targeting Jews and the mentally retarded."
So Hitler may have had a medical reason that made him turn to fascism and kill millions of people. So what is Bush's excuse for turning to fascism and killing Iraqis and Afghanis?
They believe he may have caught the sexually transmitted disease syphilis which, if untreated, can eventually cause madness.
According to a report, mental and behavioural disturbances triggered by the advanced stages of the disease could have resulted in Hitler targeting Jews and the mentally retarded."
So Hitler may have had a medical reason that made him turn to fascism and kill millions of people. So what is Bush's excuse for turning to fascism and killing Iraqis and Afghanis?
The Daily Dish
The Daily Dish: "Here's a great map from a great blog, Strange Maps. Each state is represented by a foreign country with the same GDP. I'm struck by one obvious thing. The District of Columbia has the same GDP as New Zealand. Now imagine if no one in New Zealand were allowed to vote for their own government, and they were governed by the Senate in Australia as a colony. Yep: that's how it is in America - the once-colonized now colonize themselves."
Check the map out, it is very interesting...
Check the map out, it is very interesting...
Researchers Light Up for Nicotine, the Wonder Drug
Researchers Light Up for Nicotine, the Wonder Drug: "Smoking may be bad for you, but researchers and biotech companies are quietly developing pharmaceuticals that are decidedly good for brains, bowels, blood vessels and even immune systems -- and they're inspired by tobacco's deadly active ingredient: nicotine.
Nicotine acts on the acetylcholine receptors in the brain, stimulating and regulating the release of a slew of brain chemicals, including seratonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. Not surprisingly, the first scientific work that identified these chemicals and how they affect the body came out of nicotine research -- much of it performed by tobacco companies."
Now I see why they want us to quit smoking. First there was the patch and the gum, which were very expensive as prescriptions. Now there are pills that run more than a hundred dollars a month. Now big Pharma is going to hook us on nicotine all over again, and of course it will be much more expensive than actually smoking.
Nicotine acts on the acetylcholine receptors in the brain, stimulating and regulating the release of a slew of brain chemicals, including seratonin, dopamine and norepinephrine. Not surprisingly, the first scientific work that identified these chemicals and how they affect the body came out of nicotine research -- much of it performed by tobacco companies."
Now I see why they want us to quit smoking. First there was the patch and the gum, which were very expensive as prescriptions. Now there are pills that run more than a hundred dollars a month. Now big Pharma is going to hook us on nicotine all over again, and of course it will be much more expensive than actually smoking.
At Least 14 US Soldiers Die in Iraq in 48 Hours
At Least 14 US Soldiers Die in Iraq in 48 Hours: "Few details were released. But the military said that the deadliest attack involved a unit working with the Iraqi Security Force to 'clear and control' a section of northeastern Baghdad. Along with the five U.S. soldiers who were killed, three Iraqi civilians and one Iraqi interpreter died, and one other soldier and two Iraqi civilians were injured.
In other incidents, a U.S. soldier died and three were wounded when a rocket-propelled grenade struck their vehicle in northern Baghdad early this morning; four U.S. soldiers died yesterday when a roadside bomb detonated near a convoy in western Baghdad; two Marines were killed Wednesday during combat operations in Al Anbar province; and two other Marines died and four were injured by an explosive device near their vehicle southwest of Baghdad."
Just what I want to hear while my bother is over there.
In other incidents, a U.S. soldier died and three were wounded when a rocket-propelled grenade struck their vehicle in northern Baghdad early this morning; four U.S. soldiers died yesterday when a roadside bomb detonated near a convoy in western Baghdad; two Marines were killed Wednesday during combat operations in Al Anbar province; and two other Marines died and four were injured by an explosive device near their vehicle southwest of Baghdad."
Just what I want to hear while my bother is over there.
ABC News: Pentagon Funds Gay Bombs, Armed Sharks
ABC News: Pentagon Funds Gay Bombs, Armed Sharks: "Just three years ago, the military funded a specious study of psychic teleportation, according to the Federation of American Scientists. An 88-page report prepared by the Air Force Research Lab contended that moving through mind powers is 'quite real and can be controlled.'"
Mental teleportation, ok, I will believe that when I see it. The article goes on to say that the spending on these crazy ideas amounts to about 50,000 dollars a second. I wish I had a piece of that pie...
Mental teleportation, ok, I will believe that when I see it. The article goes on to say that the spending on these crazy ideas amounts to about 50,000 dollars a second. I wish I had a piece of that pie...
It's OK to kill millions in Iraq, Saddam did it too - Bush's spokesman | Press Esc
It's OK to kill millions in Iraq, Saddam did it too - Bush's spokesman | Press Esc: "US President George W. Bush's spokesman yesterday defended the killing of nearly a million civilians in Iraq on the basis that Saddam Hussein did the same.
'Many have died, and hundreds of thousands died under the previous regime,' Tony Snow told reporters at a White House press briefing. 'This is a place that has too long been wracked by violence.'"
So by this logic, Gary Ridgway is innocent compared to John Wayne Gacy. Ridgway, the "Green River killer," killed only 7 people, when Gacy killed 33.
'Many have died, and hundreds of thousands died under the previous regime,' Tony Snow told reporters at a White House press briefing. 'This is a place that has too long been wracked by violence.'"
So by this logic, Gary Ridgway is innocent compared to John Wayne Gacy. Ridgway, the "Green River killer," killed only 7 people, when Gacy killed 33.
Exposed : Abu Ghraib - Sodomy And Humiliation
Exposed : Abu Ghraib - Sodomy And Humiliation: "Seymour Hersh Reveals Rumsfeld Misled Congress over Abu Ghraib. How Gen. Taguba says the military has unpublished photographs and videos that show the abuse and torture was even worse than previously disclosed. That includes video of a male American soldier in uniform sodomizing a female detainee, and information of the sexual humiliation of a father and his son"
Just when you thought you heard the last of it... The true extend of the torture continues to expand...
Just when you thought you heard the last of it... The true extend of the torture continues to expand...
The Raw Story | Purdue researchers create 9/11 computer simulation
The Raw Story | Purdue researchers create 9/11 computer simulation: "More than five-and-a-half years have passed since terrorists toppled the World Trade Center, and questions still remain about how the buildings came down. Researchers at Purdue University have created a computer model attempting to answer some of those questions.
The simulation found jet engine shafts from airlines flown into the World Trade Center 'flew through the building like bullets,' according to an Associated Press video report."
If you dig deeper, you will find that a lot of the funding for this "simulation" came from government agencies. I find it funny that need to release another piece of propaganda to try and convince us of the "truth." In my mind, the video really explains nothing relevant. I also like the fact that aluminum is slicing through steel like a knife through butter. Not to mention, what happened to building 7? Let's not forget this from the Project for the new American Century:
"Section V of Rebuilding America's Defenses, entitled "Creating Tomorrow's Dominant Force", includes the sentence: "Further, the process of transformation, even if it brings revolutionary change, is likely to be a long one, absent some catastrophic and catalyzing event––like a new Pearl Harbor"'
The simulation found jet engine shafts from airlines flown into the World Trade Center 'flew through the building like bullets,' according to an Associated Press video report."
If you dig deeper, you will find that a lot of the funding for this "simulation" came from government agencies. I find it funny that need to release another piece of propaganda to try and convince us of the "truth." In my mind, the video really explains nothing relevant. I also like the fact that aluminum is slicing through steel like a knife through butter. Not to mention, what happened to building 7? Let's not forget this from the Project for the new American Century:
"Section V of Rebuilding America's Defenses, entitled "Creating Tomorrow's Dominant Force", includes the sentence: "Further, the process of transformation, even if it brings revolutionary change, is likely to be a long one, absent some catastrophic and catalyzing event––like a new Pearl Harbor"'
The Raw Story | Code Pink protesters removed from 'Attorneygate' hearing
The Raw Story | Code Pink protesters removed from 'Attorneygate' hearing: "Prior to the beginning of a subcommittee hearing on alleged political influence on the US Justice Department, members of an anti-war protest group were removed from the hearing room."
I guess you cannot sit quietly and hold protest signs in Washington now a days. I do not see the problem with their actions, and I believe that this is a direct violation of freedom of speech.
I guess you cannot sit quietly and hold protest signs in Washington now a days. I do not see the problem with their actions, and I believe that this is a direct violation of freedom of speech.
The Raw Story | Cheney tells agency that Vice President's office is not part of the executive branch
The Raw Story | Cheney tells agency that Vice President's office is not part of the executive branch: "The Office of Vice President Dick Cheney told an agency within the National Archives that for purposes of securing classified information, the Vice President's office is not an 'entity within the executive branch' according to a letter released Thursday by the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform."
That happens to be very convenient. I guess that will keep him off the hook for outing Valerie Plame. Dick Cheney is a very dangerous man, with very dangerous ideas. He is trying to push Bush head first into another war, with Iran. Who knows what else he has planned.
That happens to be very convenient. I guess that will keep him off the hook for outing Valerie Plame. Dick Cheney is a very dangerous man, with very dangerous ideas. He is trying to push Bush head first into another war, with Iran. Who knows what else he has planned.
The Raw Story | Pentagon confirms email system hacked
The Raw Story | Pentagon confirms email system hacked: "The Pentagon confirmed that its e-mail system was hacked, CNN reported Thursday afternoon.
'Here at the Pentagon, officials are confirming that they've been hacked,' a CNN news anchor reported. 'It's actually a fairly serious matter.'
The report continued, 'About one third of the computer users here in the Pentagon that work for Defense Secretary Robert Gates had their email system penetrated.'"
This is funny. Hopefully whoever hacked in will make the stolen emails public, that would likely be very interesting. Perhaps there are plans about the imminent war with Iran in there... You think they would have better security.
'Here at the Pentagon, officials are confirming that they've been hacked,' a CNN news anchor reported. 'It's actually a fairly serious matter.'
The report continued, 'About one third of the computer users here in the Pentagon that work for Defense Secretary Robert Gates had their email system penetrated.'"
This is funny. Hopefully whoever hacked in will make the stolen emails public, that would likely be very interesting. Perhaps there are plans about the imminent war with Iran in there... You think they would have better security.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
BBC NEWS | Middle East | 'Iraq drives' global refugee rise
BBC NEWS | Middle East | 'Iraq drives' global refugee rise: "The number of refugees worldwide has risen for the first time in five years, largely because of violence in Iraq, according to a United Nations report.
The total number of refugees rose by more than 14% last year to nearly 10 million, the UN refugee agency says."
We sure are winning friends and influencing people in Iraq. We are inviting many of these refugees into the US, which is great on a humanitarian level, but remind me again why did they have to leave in the first place? Oh, yes the destruction we have cause in Iraq. Though I am sure most are good people, there is certainly that one percent that has been influenced by our mistakes in Iraq, and are not exactly happy with the US. That could lead to a dangerous situation here in the states...
The total number of refugees rose by more than 14% last year to nearly 10 million, the UN refugee agency says."
We sure are winning friends and influencing people in Iraq. We are inviting many of these refugees into the US, which is great on a humanitarian level, but remind me again why did they have to leave in the first place? Oh, yes the destruction we have cause in Iraq. Though I am sure most are good people, there is certainly that one percent that has been influenced by our mistakes in Iraq, and are not exactly happy with the US. That could lead to a dangerous situation here in the states...
BBC NEWS | Business | Blackberry ban for French elite
BBC NEWS | Business | Blackberry ban for French elite: "Workers in the French president's and prime minister's office have been told their e-mails risk falling into foreign hands, Le Monde newspaper reports.
France's SGDN security service is worried because Blackberries use US- and UK-based servers, the paper says."
Well, I don't think any country should trust that the United States would not spy on their citizens right now. After all, America is spying on its own citizens...
France's SGDN security service is worried because Blackberries use US- and UK-based servers, the paper says."
Well, I don't think any country should trust that the United States would not spy on their citizens right now. After all, America is spying on its own citizens...
US, Israel finalise Iran strike plan | Press Esc
US, Israel finalise Iran strike plan | Press Esc: "Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert visited Washington yesterday and met with US President George W. Bush to finalise plans for a joint US-Israel strike on Iran's nuclear facilities.
President Bush hinted that actions against Iran will form the core of their discussion.
'I'm sure that we will find some time, also, to discuss other measures, such as the danger of Iran and the threats that come from the President of Iran, who talks time and again about the liquidation of the state of Israel, something that is totally intolerable and unacceptable,' he said. 'And we have to continue the measures taken in order to stop the Iranian efforts to establish unconventional weapons.'"
The two "satans" meet behind locked doors to discuss global domination. I am sure we will blow Iran off the face of the planet with nukes, like the British feared we would do in Afghanistan. Look out Syria...
President Bush hinted that actions against Iran will form the core of their discussion.
'I'm sure that we will find some time, also, to discuss other measures, such as the danger of Iran and the threats that come from the President of Iran, who talks time and again about the liquidation of the state of Israel, something that is totally intolerable and unacceptable,' he said. 'And we have to continue the measures taken in order to stop the Iranian efforts to establish unconventional weapons.'"
The two "satans" meet behind locked doors to discuss global domination. I am sure we will blow Iran off the face of the planet with nukes, like the British feared we would do in Afghanistan. Look out Syria...
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
US destroying Iraq with impunity | Press Esc
US destroying Iraq with impunity | Press Esc: "The United States and its allies are killing Iraqi civilians, stealing Iraq's oil and destroying the nation's heritage with total impunity, according to a report released jointly today by 30 NGOs which concluded that The US Coalition is the principal cause of Iraq’s current ills.
The 117-page War and Occupation in Iraq reveals that the US has established broad legal immunity in Iraq for its military forces, for private security personnel, for foreign military and civilian contractors, and even for the oil companies doing business with Iraq and that no matter what crimes the Coalition commits, Iraqis now or in the future face legal barriers if they seek accountability."
We sure know how to cover our rears...
The 117-page War and Occupation in Iraq reveals that the US has established broad legal immunity in Iraq for its military forces, for private security personnel, for foreign military and civilian contractors, and even for the oil companies doing business with Iraq and that no matter what crimes the Coalition commits, Iraqis now or in the future face legal barriers if they seek accountability."
We sure know how to cover our rears...
Truthdig - Reports - A Culture of Atrocity
Truthdig - Reports - A Culture of Atrocity: "The rage that soldiers feel after a roadside bomb explodes, killing or maiming their comrades, is one that is easily directed over time to innocent civilians who are seen as supporting the insurgents. It is a short psychological leap, but a massive moral one. It is a leap from killing—the shooting of someone who has the capacity to do you harm—to murder—the deadly assault against someone who cannot harm you. The war in Iraq is now primarily about murder. There is very little killing. American Marines and soldiers have become, after four years of war, acclimated to atrocity. "
Killing becomes second nature when you are brainwashed to do so. The modern military training techniques were instituted after America's civil war, because they would find soldiers dead with several rounds loaded in their muskets. They simply could not kill another human being, so they would load after load into the gun, and, in the confusion, no one noticed that they were not firing. Modern training is designed to slowly break down your morality, thus allowing you to be able to shoot a human. You are turned into a killing machine, a robot, who follows orders. There will always be atrocities on the battlefield because of this training.
Killing becomes second nature when you are brainwashed to do so. The modern military training techniques were instituted after America's civil war, because they would find soldiers dead with several rounds loaded in their muskets. They simply could not kill another human being, so they would load after load into the gun, and, in the confusion, no one noticed that they were not firing. Modern training is designed to slowly break down your morality, thus allowing you to be able to shoot a human. You are turned into a killing machine, a robot, who follows orders. There will always be atrocities on the battlefield because of this training.
The Raw Story | Judge gives go-ahead to lawsuit against Bush's bank transfer spying program
The Raw Story | Judge gives go-ahead to lawsuit against Bush's bank transfer spying program: "A federal judge in Chicago last week rejected a motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed against a Belgium-based bank transfer clearinghouse that collaborated with an anti-terrorism spying program led by the US Department of Treasury. The judge's decision will allow two plaintiffs to press their case that the Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial Telecommunication (SWIFT) violated the Fourth Amendment and financial privacy rights of bank customers throughout the United States when it collaborated with president George W. Bush's so-called 'Terrorist Finance Tracking Program.'"
Hooray for that judge. That is what they are supposed to do, determine whether a law is in line with the constitution and to act as a check to the executive branch... Unfortunately, if it reaches Bush's cronies in the Supreme Court, the program will stand.
Hooray for that judge. That is what they are supposed to do, determine whether a law is in line with the constitution and to act as a check to the executive branch... Unfortunately, if it reaches Bush's cronies in the Supreme Court, the program will stand.
Monday, June 18, 2007
The Blotter
The Blotter: "Large teams of newly trained suicide bombers are being sent to the United States and Europe, according to evidence contained on a new videotape obtained by the Blotter on ABCNews.com.
Teams assigned to carry out attacks in the United States, Canada, Great Britain and Germany were introduced at an al Qaeda/Taliban training camp graduation ceremony held June 9."
The corporate propaganda machine is following the administration's orders again. Like in 1984, the only way to keep the citizens as a nation of sheep, is to have a state of perpetual war. If some "terrorist" threat is not found here and there, people may actually question the validity of the war and the nullified civil liberties.
Teams assigned to carry out attacks in the United States, Canada, Great Britain and Germany were introduced at an al Qaeda/Taliban training camp graduation ceremony held June 9."
The corporate propaganda machine is following the administration's orders again. Like in 1984, the only way to keep the citizens as a nation of sheep, is to have a state of perpetual war. If some "terrorist" threat is not found here and there, people may actually question the validity of the war and the nullified civil liberties.
The Raw Story | Press corps evacuated from White House building
The Raw Story | Press corps evacuated from White House building: "A building close to the White House was evacuated says a breaking news report at the Associated Press.
'The evacuated building was the White House conference center, which is around the corner,' AP said of the facility cleared due to a 'bomb scare.' 'The conference center temporarily houses the White House press corp during a renovation in the West wing.'"
Oops! One of the press must have asked the administration a question that they did not like...
'The evacuated building was the White House conference center, which is around the corner,' AP said of the facility cleared due to a 'bomb scare.' 'The conference center temporarily houses the White House press corp during a renovation in the West wing.'"
Oops! One of the press must have asked the administration a question that they did not like...
Homeland Security opposes passport rule delay - USATODAY.com
Homeland Security opposes passport rule delay - USATODAY.com: "WASHINGTON — The Homeland Security Department is vigorously fighting a move by Congress to delay a requirement that U.S. citizens show a passport to re-enter the country by land or sea from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda or the Caribbean, saying it puts the nation's borders at risk."
Yes, because the Americans are the true "terrorists." We must be, that is why they are wiretapping our phones, reading our emails, watching our internet activities, searching our bodies and our homes, with or without a rubber-stamped warrant. This is why habeas corpus is gone, detention centers are being built, freedom of speech is being curtailed, and the Posse Commitus act has been nullified. And finally, this is why King George has given himself the powers of a dictator during the next national emergency, to prevent we the terrorists from destroying his government. When will the rest of the sheep pull the wool from their eyes, and stop believing that the administration is protecting our "freedom."
Yes, because the Americans are the true "terrorists." We must be, that is why they are wiretapping our phones, reading our emails, watching our internet activities, searching our bodies and our homes, with or without a rubber-stamped warrant. This is why habeas corpus is gone, detention centers are being built, freedom of speech is being curtailed, and the Posse Commitus act has been nullified. And finally, this is why King George has given himself the powers of a dictator during the next national emergency, to prevent we the terrorists from destroying his government. When will the rest of the sheep pull the wool from their eyes, and stop believing that the administration is protecting our "freedom."
UK police smash pedophile ring; 700 arrested - Europe - MSNBC.com
UK police smash pedophile ring; 700 arrested - Europe - MSNBC.com: "LONDON - British police, with aid from U.S. investigators, have shattered a global Internet pedophile ring, rescuing 31 children and rounding up more than 700 suspects worldwide, authorities said Monday."
Now these are people I would not mind being sent to Gitmo. Release the majority of "enemy combatants," and ship the pedophiles down there. "Police rescued 31 children, some of them only a few months old."
Now these are people I would not mind being sent to Gitmo. Release the majority of "enemy combatants," and ship the pedophiles down there. "Police rescued 31 children, some of them only a few months old."
WorldNetDaily: U.N. leader: Darfur slaughter triggered by global warming
WorldNetDaily: U.N. leader: Darfur slaughter triggered by global warming:
"U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon blames the ethnic and religious violence in Darfur on global warming and insists more conflicts of this kind are coming because of climate change.
'The Darfur conflict began as an ecological crisis, arising at least in part from climate change,' Ban said in a Washington Post opinion column."
Whether an ecological crisis is to blame or not in Dafur, as the Earth warms, there will conflicts developing over the control of natural resources, especially water and food.
"U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki-moon blames the ethnic and religious violence in Darfur on global warming and insists more conflicts of this kind are coming because of climate change.
'The Darfur conflict began as an ecological crisis, arising at least in part from climate change,' Ban said in a Washington Post opinion column."
Whether an ecological crisis is to blame or not in Dafur, as the Earth warms, there will conflicts developing over the control of natural resources, especially water and food.
FBI is Contacting More Than One Million PC Owners : TruthEra.com - Conspiracy Discussion & Alternative News
FBI is Contacting More Than One Million PC Owners : TruthEra.com - Conspiracy Discussion & Alternative News: "The initiative is part of an ongoing project to thwart the use of hijacked home computers, or zombies, as launch platforms for hi-tech crimes.
The FBI has found networks of zombie computers being used to spread spam, steal IDs and attack websites.
The agency said the zombies or bots were “a growing threat to national security”."
Yes, al-Queda has turned to sending spam about the newest male enhancement products. It is just another excuse to track Americans.
The FBI has found networks of zombie computers being used to spread spam, steal IDs and attack websites.
The agency said the zombies or bots were “a growing threat to national security”."
Yes, al-Queda has turned to sending spam about the newest male enhancement products. It is just another excuse to track Americans.
AlterNet: Health & Wellness: Why Is the Pet Food Industry Killing Our Pets?
AlterNet: Health & Wellness: Why Is the Pet Food Industry Killing Our Pets?: "The commercial pet foods industry rakes in billions of dollars annually. In exchange for our dollars, we trust the companies to provide our pets with quality nutrition. The recent pet food recall demonstrated that our trust has been misplaced. But while many were shocked by the tragic deaths of beloved pets, many more would be shocked to know that the pet food industry has a long history of mistreating our pets. I first began researching the industry in 1990, when my two dogs became ill after eating a well-known commercial food."
The vast majority of pet food companies were formed as a way to profit off the less-than-human quality by-products of the meat and grain industries. Corporate propaganda and corporate pressuring of veterinarians has led the consumer to believe that pet food is actually good for their pets. Our pets, however, were born to eat most of the same food that we eat.
The vast majority of pet food companies were formed as a way to profit off the less-than-human quality by-products of the meat and grain industries. Corporate propaganda and corporate pressuring of veterinarians has led the consumer to believe that pet food is actually good for their pets. Our pets, however, were born to eat most of the same food that we eat.
AlterNet: Pope Bendedict Argues Catholic Church 'Purified' Indigenous Peoples
AlterNet: Pope Bendedict Argues Catholic Church 'Purified' Indigenous Peoples: "During his recent trip to Latin America, Pope Benedict XVI offended millions when he arrogantly suggested that Catholicism had purified indigenous populations, and called the resurgence of indigenous religions a step backward. He also said the native populations were longing for Christianity, and had welcomed the Catholic priests at the time of European conquest."
Wow, what history book is this moron reading from? Latin America was destroyed and many of its inhabitants murdered, because they were "longing for Christianity?" Because of the conquistadors, we lost some of the most valuable knowledge of indigenous populations like the Aztecs, the Incas, and the Mayans. These natives were not running around with clubs beating each other over the head, they were far more advanced than they are commonly given credit for.
Wow, what history book is this moron reading from? Latin America was destroyed and many of its inhabitants murdered, because they were "longing for Christianity?" Because of the conquistadors, we lost some of the most valuable knowledge of indigenous populations like the Aztecs, the Incas, and the Mayans. These natives were not running around with clubs beating each other over the head, they were far more advanced than they are commonly given credit for.
In the Absence of Reason
In the Absence of Reason: "I earn a modest living by working in a small wood shop specializing in architectural radial millwork. The owner, like most of the employees, considers himself a devout Christian. He is convinced that he is doing the will of his God. My coworkers are good people, but they are sadly misinformed about the world in general, and things political in particular. They have subscribed to the mythos that the United States can do no wrong, and that the actions of the government in the Middle East, and elsewhere, are not only justified, but sanctified by god. That is the thinking behind manifest destiny.
How so many intelligent people could arrive at such an erroneous conclusion is not as mystifying as it might appear. It is the result of an assault on reason that is sweeping the nation and actively promoting ignorance and superstition in place of rational and ethical thought."
Yes, take a tragedy in America and turn it into an excuse to tame or destroy the Muslims. Make sure to mention god a few times, and the sheep will gladly follow you. Sounds a bit like the crusades, does it not?
How so many intelligent people could arrive at such an erroneous conclusion is not as mystifying as it might appear. It is the result of an assault on reason that is sweeping the nation and actively promoting ignorance and superstition in place of rational and ethical thought."
Yes, take a tragedy in America and turn it into an excuse to tame or destroy the Muslims. Make sure to mention god a few times, and the sheep will gladly follow you. Sounds a bit like the crusades, does it not?
Bush admin 'violated' Presidential Records Act | Press Esc
Bush admin 'violated' Presidential Records Act | Press Esc: "White House officials including Bush's senior advisor Karl Rove may have violated the Presidential Records Act by destroying emails relating to the decision to go to war in Iraq, making it the most serious breach of the 30-year history of the law, according to an interim report released by House Oversight Committee."
You cannot have an official electronic trail through white house servers when you are plotting to take over the middle east. What else went though the RNC's computers that we don't know about yet?
You cannot have an official electronic trail through white house servers when you are plotting to take over the middle east. What else went though the RNC's computers that we don't know about yet?
The Raw Story | Paper 'busts' Democrats at immigration rally pointing to 'empty boxes'
The Raw Story | Paper 'busts' Democrats at immigration rally pointing to 'empty boxes': "'As the Members repeatedly referred to the letters and gestured toward the boxes allegedly containing them as evidence of the support for the immigration bill that is struggling in the Senate, a crack Roll Call photographer on hand at the event began to grow suspicious,' Heil continues. 'He could see light shining through the handles of the boxes, indicating that they weren’t full.'
The paper reveals, 'Sure enough, a quick check revealed that the boxes were, indeed, completely empty.'"
Wow, another congressional con job? I love it.
The paper reveals, 'Sure enough, a quick check revealed that the boxes were, indeed, completely empty.'"
Wow, another congressional con job? I love it.
The Raw Story | Britain feared US would 'nuke' Afghanistan: ex-diplomat
The Raw Story | Britain feared US would 'nuke' Afghanistan: ex-diplomat: "Britain joined the United States' invasion to oust the Taliban in 2001 because it feared America would 'nuke the shit' out of Afghanistan, the former British ambassador to Washington reportedly told a television documentary to be screened Saturday.
In comments printed in advance in the Daily Mirror tabloid on Monday, Christopher Meyer said that fear explained why Prime Minister Tony Blair chose to stand with US President George W. Bush in his decision to invade Afghanistan in the immediate aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks -- to temper his aggressive battle plans."
This is funny, Britain was just there to be our conscience. Well, they did a really lousy job... I would not have put it past this administration to nuke the entire country over Bin Laden.
In comments printed in advance in the Daily Mirror tabloid on Monday, Christopher Meyer said that fear explained why Prime Minister Tony Blair chose to stand with US President George W. Bush in his decision to invade Afghanistan in the immediate aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks -- to temper his aggressive battle plans."
This is funny, Britain was just there to be our conscience. Well, they did a really lousy job... I would not have put it past this administration to nuke the entire country over Bin Laden.
The Raw Story | Government watchdog says Bush ignored law after 30% of signing statements
The Raw Story | Government watchdog says Bush ignored law after 30% of signing statements: "The Government Accountability Office issued a report showing that US government agencies ignored Congressional legislation on 30% of the occasions when President George W. Bush issued a 'presidential signing statement' after signing bills into law."
This is called "How to become a secret Dictator: 101." Bush has issued more "singing statements" than all of the other presidents combined, and, unlike most previous statements, they are worded such that he can ignore the law he just signed.
This is called "How to become a secret Dictator: 101." Bush has issued more "singing statements" than all of the other presidents combined, and, unlike most previous statements, they are worded such that he can ignore the law he just signed.
Truthdig - Ear to the Ground - Tragic Mistake in Afghanistan
Truthdig - Ear to the Ground - Tragic Mistake in Afghanistan: "An air strike by U.S.-led forces near the eastern border of Afghanistan killed seven children on Sunday night—a tragic error that coalition forces attributed to al-Qaida operatives who had used “human shields” as cover, according to The New York Times."
They will just call it collateral damage and move on...
They will just call it collateral damage and move on...
Saturday, June 16, 2007
AlterNet: Twenty Things You Should Know About Corporate Crime
AlterNet: Twenty Things You Should Know About Corporate Crime: "Did you know that corporate crime inflicts far more damage on society than all street crime combined? This and 19 more amazing facts about the state of corporations in America."
Somehow, I am not surprised. I know there are far fewer corporate thugs in jail than street thugs, however. Big money buys the best lawyers. All hail corporate America.
Somehow, I am not surprised. I know there are far fewer corporate thugs in jail than street thugs, however. Big money buys the best lawyers. All hail corporate America.
UK becoming a 'police state', UN warns | Press Esc
UK becoming a 'police state', UN warns | Press Esc: "Counter-terrorism laws are rapidly turning the United Kingdom into a police state, a United Nations independent expert warned today and added that targeting Muslims through religious profiling was counterproductive.
Asma Jahangir, the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief, was particularly concerned about the new stop and search rules allowing the police to to stop and search an individual without having to show ‘reasonable grounds’ for the action, which the British police themselves have deemed unnecessary."
At least we have our best ally with us as we journey down the road to fascism. Meanwhile, a US author has become tangled up in a UK law that may very well stifle her freedom of speech.
Asma Jahangir, the Special Rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief, was particularly concerned about the new stop and search rules allowing the police to to stop and search an individual without having to show ‘reasonable grounds’ for the action, which the British police themselves have deemed unnecessary."
At least we have our best ally with us as we journey down the road to fascism. Meanwhile, a US author has become tangled up in a UK law that may very well stifle her freedom of speech.
The threat to al-Jazeera
The threat to al-Jazeera: "But the station has had to pay a high price for its independence and professionalism. Its offices in Kabul and Baghdad were bombed by the US; its Baghdad correspondent Tariq Ayyub was killed; its Kabul correspondent Taysir Alluni was arrested in Spain and charged with terrorism; and its cameraman Sami Alhajj was kidnapped in Kabul and continues to be held in Guantánamo Bay. Most notoriously of all, George Bush even suggested to Tony Blair that they bomb al-Jazeera's Doha headquarters.
Now the US, which maintains a large military base in Qatar, has adopted a more subtle approach to breaking the Arabs' voice of independence and diversity. And the signs are that some elements in the Qatari government have yielded to the relentless US pressure. As one source close to al-Jazeera has put it: 'You don't need to bomb a TV station to change its direction.' A recent reshuffle has brought outspokenly pro-US directors on to the board, including a former Qatari ambassador to Washington. Another has boasted publicly that the tone and content of al-Jazeera's coverage is going to be changed. But these moves have already backfired and caused huge controversy not only in Qatar but throughout the Middle East, and there is every chance that what is in effect an attempted coup at the station will be reversed. It would be a huge loss for independence and freedom in the Arab world if it succeeded."
We cannot have media in the Middle East that is not completely for America. After all, we make the media in Iraq and Afghanistan, filling it with pro-government and pro-US propaganda. Al-Jazeera is one of the few free voices in the Middle East.
Now the US, which maintains a large military base in Qatar, has adopted a more subtle approach to breaking the Arabs' voice of independence and diversity. And the signs are that some elements in the Qatari government have yielded to the relentless US pressure. As one source close to al-Jazeera has put it: 'You don't need to bomb a TV station to change its direction.' A recent reshuffle has brought outspokenly pro-US directors on to the board, including a former Qatari ambassador to Washington. Another has boasted publicly that the tone and content of al-Jazeera's coverage is going to be changed. But these moves have already backfired and caused huge controversy not only in Qatar but throughout the Middle East, and there is every chance that what is in effect an attempted coup at the station will be reversed. It would be a huge loss for independence and freedom in the Arab world if it succeeded."
We cannot have media in the Middle East that is not completely for America. After all, we make the media in Iraq and Afghanistan, filling it with pro-government and pro-US propaganda. Al-Jazeera is one of the few free voices in the Middle East.
Salon.com | News Wires
Salon.com | News Wires: "U.S. defense contractors are receiving nearly half the money allotted by Washington to fight cocaine trafficking and leftist rebels in Colombia, throwing into doubt their mission to train Colombians to replace them.
When U.S. defense contractors were first hired by the U.S. government in 2000 to help the Colombian government under the multibillion-dollar Plan Colombia aid package, American officials assumed the contractors would be gradually replaced as they trained Colombians."
Our shadow warriors are taking more profit than they deserve? Where have we heard this before? This is what happens when you hire a corporation to play GI Joe...
When U.S. defense contractors were first hired by the U.S. government in 2000 to help the Colombian government under the multibillion-dollar Plan Colombia aid package, American officials assumed the contractors would be gradually replaced as they trained Colombians."
Our shadow warriors are taking more profit than they deserve? Where have we heard this before? This is what happens when you hire a corporation to play GI Joe...
WorldNetDaily: U.S. contemplating more weapons to Palestinians
WorldNetDaily: U.S. contemplating more weapons to Palestinians: "According to the diplomatic sources, U.S. and European Union officials are making plans to transfer emergency aid to Abbas' Fatah party to secure its grasp on the West Bank after Hamas this week took complete control of the Gaza Strip, including all Fatah security compounds, many of which contained American weapons. The proposed aid to Fatah in the West Bank entails providing both funds and heavy weaponry, the diplomatic sources said."
Yes, let's keep providing weapons to people who just may decide to use them against us or our allies in the future. Why can't we just stay out of other's affairs? Oh, yes, there is the huge amount of profit we make in weapons deals...
Yes, let's keep providing weapons to people who just may decide to use them against us or our allies in the future. Why can't we just stay out of other's affairs? Oh, yes, there is the huge amount of profit we make in weapons deals...
Friday, June 15, 2007
China's changing nuclear posture | Spero News
China's changing nuclear posture | Spero News: "But as the latest report from the US Army War College reveals, the Chinese political and military leadership is gradually revising its nuclear posture and even preparing for the possibility of using nuclear weapons in a pre-emptive counter attack should the need arise."
This is quite troubling, seeing as we are on increasingly shaky ground with Red China.
This is quite troubling, seeing as we are on increasingly shaky ground with Red China.
Crooks and Liars » The Daily Show catches Tony Snow Lying
Crooks and Liars » The Daily Show catches Tony Snow Lying: "Stewart then rolled video from Wednesday’s briefing, at which a reporter asked Snow: “At the beginning of this story, the President, you, Dan Bartlett, others said on camera that politics was not involved, this was performance-based, but –”
Snow’s reply: “No, that is something — we have never said that.”…"
Oops, Tony forgot about those new-fangled things called "video cameras" and "video recorders." Gotta love the spin.
Snow’s reply: “No, that is something — we have never said that.”…"
Oops, Tony forgot about those new-fangled things called "video cameras" and "video recorders." Gotta love the spin.
More Firings Fallout As Justice Aide Quits, Deputy Attorney General's Chief Of Staff Resigns, Was Accused Of Threatening Attorneys If They Spoke Out -
More Firings Fallout As Justice Aide Quits, Deputy Attorney General's Chief Of Staff Resigns, Was Accused Of Threatening Attorneys If They Spoke Out - CBS News: "A senior Justice Department official who helped carry out the dismissals of federal prosecutors said Friday he is resigning.
Mike Elston, chief of staff to Deputy Attorney General Paul McNulty, is the fifth Justice official to leave after being linked to the dismissals of the prosecutors."
And another one bites the dust...
Mike Elston, chief of staff to Deputy Attorney General Paul McNulty, is the fifth Justice official to leave after being linked to the dismissals of the prosecutors."
And another one bites the dust...
Duke prosecutor says he will resign - Yahoo! News
Duke prosecutor says he will resign - Yahoo! News: "RALEIGH, N.C. - A tearful Mike Nifong said Friday he will resign as district attorney after admitting that he made improper statements about three Duke University lacrosse players who were once charged with raping a stripper."
It is about time. What a horrible thing to do to those 3 innocent people, he should get jail time himself.
It is about time. What a horrible thing to do to those 3 innocent people, he should get jail time himself.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
The Queen of Earmarks?
The Queen of Earmarks?: "The Hill reported yesterday that Hillary Clinton inserted more earmarks into the latest defense spending bill than any other Senator except for Armed Services Chairman Carl Levin. The 26 earmarks, totaling $148.4 million, mostly went to the New York-based defense industry. (For more on Hillary's ties to military contractors, see the Village Voice article 'Mama Warbucks.')"
Here is a little indication of what Hillary's true policy in the middle east would be if she were elected: Surprise! More war profiteering...
Here is a little indication of what Hillary's true policy in the middle east would be if she were elected: Surprise! More war profiteering...
The Raw Story | Bush links Syria to killing of Lebanese MP
The Raw Story | Bush links Syria to killing of Lebanese MP: "US President George W. Bush on Wednesday indirectly accused Syria of involvement in the Beirut blast that killed a Lebanese anti-Syrian MP and nine others.
'There has been a clear pattern of assassinations and attempted assassinations in Lebanon since October 2004,' Bush said in a statement.
'Those working for a sovereign and democratic Lebanon have always been the ones targeted. The victims have always been those who sought an end to Syrian President Assad's interference in Lebanon's internal affairs.'"
Here we go again... The propaganda machine now has its sights set on Syria. Just like Iraq had WMDs and Iran is arming the Taliban, now Syria is causing the trouble in Lebanon. (of course, he fails to mention our involvement in Lebanon.)
'There has been a clear pattern of assassinations and attempted assassinations in Lebanon since October 2004,' Bush said in a statement.
'Those working for a sovereign and democratic Lebanon have always been the ones targeted. The victims have always been those who sought an end to Syrian President Assad's interference in Lebanon's internal affairs.'"
Here we go again... The propaganda machine now has its sights set on Syria. Just like Iraq had WMDs and Iran is arming the Taliban, now Syria is causing the trouble in Lebanon. (of course, he fails to mention our involvement in Lebanon.)
Think Progress » Snow: Intense New Levels Of Violence In Iraq Are ‘Signs Of Success’
Think Progress » Snow: Intense New Levels Of Violence In Iraq Are ‘Signs Of Success’: "During his press briefing yesterday, White House spokesman Tony Snow said the increasing chaos was a positive sign. The new levels of attacks 'fit a pattern that we see throughout the region,' he said, 'which is that when you see things moving towards success, or when you see signs of success, that there are acts of violence.'"
So, violence in Iraq = Success!! Mission accomplished again... This is straight out of Orwell's 1984, it is the exact definition of "doublespeak."
So, violence in Iraq = Success!! Mission accomplished again... This is straight out of Orwell's 1984, it is the exact definition of "doublespeak."
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Bush appoints top industry lobbyist as counselor | Press Esc
Bush appoints top industry lobbyist as counselor | Press Esc: "President Bush today appointed a top industry lobbyist who lobbied on behalf of America's biggest businesses and interest groups as his counselor, replacing Dan Bartlett who left the White House recently.
DaimlerChrysler, Microsoft, PricewaterhouseCoopers, SBC Communications, TysonFoods, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Viacom are just some of the clients of Ed Gillespie, who served as the chairman of the Republican National Committee (RNC) between 2003 and 2005."
Politics/business as usual... All of the politicians in Washington are simply corporate slaves... We should rename our country to the United Corporations of America.
DaimlerChrysler, Microsoft, PricewaterhouseCoopers, SBC Communications, TysonFoods, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Viacom are just some of the clients of Ed Gillespie, who served as the chairman of the Republican National Committee (RNC) between 2003 and 2005."
Politics/business as usual... All of the politicians in Washington are simply corporate slaves... We should rename our country to the United Corporations of America.
The Blotter: FBI Terror Watch List 'Out of Control'
The Blotter: "A portion of the FBI's unclassified 2008 budget request posted to the Department of Justice Web site, however, refers to 'the entire watch list of 509,000 names,' which is utilized by its Foreign Terrorist Tracking Task Force."
Just wait until the new FBI system is up and running. The list will probably triple when they add those suspected of "pre-crime."
Just wait until the new FBI system is up and running. The list will probably triple when they add those suspected of "pre-crime."
Tragic Catch-911 for dying woman - Los Angeles Times
Tragic Catch-911 for dying woman - Los Angeles Times: "The patient, Edith Isabel Rodriguez, was pronounced dead at 2:17 a.m., the victim of 'inexcusable' indifference by staff at King-Harbor, county health officials later acknowledged.
Rodriguez lay untreated on the ER lobby floor for 45 minutes before dying. A video camera captured the episode, showing that staffers and patients stood by as a janitor cleaned the floor around her. She was buried in Tehachapi on Tuesday."
This does not at all surprise me, given my family's experience with hospitals lately.
Rodriguez lay untreated on the ER lobby floor for 45 minutes before dying. A video camera captured the episode, showing that staffers and patients stood by as a janitor cleaned the floor around her. She was buried in Tehachapi on Tuesday."
This does not at all surprise me, given my family's experience with hospitals lately.
FBI Data Mining Program Raises Eyebrows in Congress : TruthEra.com - Uncover the Truth
FBI Data Mining Program Raises Eyebrows in Congress : TruthEra.com - Uncover the Truth: "Of further concern to the two congressmen are the FBI’s stated hopes to “pro-actively” mine the data to find terrorists using “predictive” analysis, according to its budget request, an unproven method according to experts and even the U.S. intelligence chief’s office.
In theory, predictive analysis involves mapping a known pattern of terrorist behavior — for instance, the sequence and timing of such mundane activities as bank transactions and travel purchases — against a massive collection of such records like the NSAC databases. If an individual’s actions match the pattern, they can be considered a suspect, even if they have no known ties to any suspected terrorists or known terrorist groups."
This is crazy, sounds a little like Minority Report. By grouping all 1.5 billion records together, and monitoring them, they will essentially be watching for "pre-crime." We will be suspects before we have even done anything.
In theory, predictive analysis involves mapping a known pattern of terrorist behavior — for instance, the sequence and timing of such mundane activities as bank transactions and travel purchases — against a massive collection of such records like the NSAC databases. If an individual’s actions match the pattern, they can be considered a suspect, even if they have no known ties to any suspected terrorists or known terrorist groups."
This is crazy, sounds a little like Minority Report. By grouping all 1.5 billion records together, and monitoring them, they will essentially be watching for "pre-crime." We will be suspects before we have even done anything.
China Threatens War Escalation Over Bush Handshake
China Threatens War Escalation Over Bush Handshake: "In a headline story that aired at 10pm Shanghai time Wednesday night on the Hong Kong based PHTV news channel, Chinese government leaders threatened to plan new war games and heighten military readiness in anticipation of any attempt by the U.S. to defend Taiwan should a Chinese invasion occur, or simply if Taiwan declares its independence."
China is slowly turning its back on us, and that could easily lead to the collapse of our economy, simply because they own most of our debt. Every time you buy a product that says "made in China" on it, think about the consequences.
China is slowly turning its back on us, and that could easily lead to the collapse of our economy, simply because they own most of our debt. Every time you buy a product that says "made in China" on it, think about the consequences.
Deep Sea News : Munitions Dumping at Sea
Deep Sea News : Munitions Dumping at Sea: "It is no secret that the U.S. military has used the ocean as trashcan for munitions in the past. Peter discussed at the Old DSN how federal lawmakers were pressing the US Army to reveal everything it knows about a massive international program to dump chemical weapons off homeland and foreign shores. 'The Army now admits that it secretly dumped 64 million pounds of nerve and mustard agents into the sea, along with 400,000 chemical-filled bombs, land mines and rockets and more than 500 tons of radioactive waste - either tossed overboard or packed into the holds of scuttled vessels.' "
Wow, I don't even know what to say about this. Don't we already have enough environmental issues going on? They mention later in the text how hundreds of dolphins washed up on shore, dead, with burns similar to the ones created by mustard-gas.
Wow, I don't even know what to say about this. Don't we already have enough environmental issues going on? They mention later in the text how hundreds of dolphins washed up on shore, dead, with burns similar to the ones created by mustard-gas.
Cheney's Iran-Arms-to-Taliban Gambit Rebuffed
Cheney's Iran-Arms-to-Taliban Gambit Rebuffed: " Both Gates and McNeill denied flatly last week that there is any evidence linking Iranian authorities to those arms. Gates told a press conference on Jun. 4, 'We do not have any information about whether the government of Iran is supporting this, is behind it, or whether it's smuggling, or exactly what is behind it.' Gates said that 'some' of the arms in question might be going to Afghan drug smugglers.
The commander of NATO forces in Afghanistan, Gen. McNeill, implied that the arms trafficking from Iran is being carried out by private interests. '[W]hen you say weapons being provided by Iran, that would suggest there is some more formal entity involved in getting these weapons here,' he told Jim Loney of Reuters June 5. 'That's not my view at all.'"
Busted... The media is trying to convince us that Iran's government is arming Sunni's in Afghanistan, when there is no evidence of it. It is far more likely that it is private parties moving the weapons.
The commander of NATO forces in Afghanistan, Gen. McNeill, implied that the arms trafficking from Iran is being carried out by private interests. '[W]hen you say weapons being provided by Iran, that would suggest there is some more formal entity involved in getting these weapons here,' he told Jim Loney of Reuters June 5. 'That's not my view at all.'"
Busted... The media is trying to convince us that Iran's government is arming Sunni's in Afghanistan, when there is no evidence of it. It is far more likely that it is private parties moving the weapons.
French Find Hidden American Satellites in Orbit : TruthEra.com - Uncover the Truth
French Find Hidden American Satellites in Orbit : TruthEra.com - Uncover the Truth: "A French space-surveillance radar has detected 20-30 satellites in low Earth orbit that do not figure in the U.S. Defense Department’s published catalogue, a discovery that French officials say they will use to pressure U.S. authorities to stop publishing the whereabouts of French reconnaissance and military communications satellites."
You have to wonder what these satellites do. God only knows when it comes to satellites that "do not exist."
You have to wonder what these satellites do. God only knows when it comes to satellites that "do not exist."
Put Rumsfeld, Gonzales back on the dock for war crimes - UN expert | Press Esc
Put Rumsfeld, Gonzales back on the dock for war crimes - UN expert | Press Esc: "Today, on the opening day of the UN Human Rights Council’s fifth session, Mr. Despouy noted with concern that the alleged perpetrators of the violations referred in his allegation letter of 13 July 2006 sent to the government of Germany, have still not been prosecuted in the United States and that, on the contrary, new legislation has been adopted in the US that practically impedes the prosecution of public officials suspected of being responsible for those acts."
Yes, our administration has made themselves untouchable in regards to its crimes of torture. It is very unlikely anyone will ever be held responsible.
Yes, our administration has made themselves untouchable in regards to its crimes of torture. It is very unlikely anyone will ever be held responsible.
My Way News - U.S.: Iran Sending Weapons to Taliban
My Way News - U.S.: Iran Sending Weapons to Taliban: "PARIS (AP) - A senior U.S. diplomat accused Iran on Tuesday of transferring weapons to Taliban insurgents in Afghanistan - the most direct comments yet on the issue by a ranking American official.
Undersecretary of State Nicholas Burns, speaking to reporters in Paris, said Iran was funding insurrections across the Middle East - and 'Iran is now even transferring arms to the Taliban in Afghanistan.'"
Gotta love the propaganda. This guy says they have evidence to back it up, but we have not seen this evidence. sounds just like the run-up to the Iraq war.
Undersecretary of State Nicholas Burns, speaking to reporters in Paris, said Iran was funding insurrections across the Middle East - and 'Iran is now even transferring arms to the Taliban in Afghanistan.'"
Gotta love the propaganda. This guy says they have evidence to back it up, but we have not seen this evidence. sounds just like the run-up to the Iraq war.
Truthdig - Reports - War and Censorship at Wilton High
Truthdig - Reports - War and Censorship at Wilton High: "I asked the student actors about their opportunities to discuss the war at school. Jimmy Presson, 16 years old, said his U.S. history class has a weekly assignment to bring in a current-event news item, with one caveat: 'We are not allowed to talk about the war while discussing current events.'"
The only people the students may discuss the war with currently are the military recruiters that lurk at their school. To get around that, they made a play about the war, and it was shot down by the school administration. What happened to free speech and the idea that current events should be discussed in schools?
The only people the students may discuss the war with currently are the military recruiters that lurk at their school. To get around that, they made a play about the war, and it was shot down by the school administration. What happened to free speech and the idea that current events should be discussed in schools?
Monday, June 11, 2007
Putin’s Censored Press Conference: The meeting you weren’t supposed to see
Putin’s Censored Press Conference: The meeting you weren’t supposed to see : "On Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin gave an hour and a half-long press conference which was attended by many members of the world media. The contents of that meeting---in which Putin answered all questions concerning nuclear proliferation, human rights, Kosovo, democracy and the present confrontation with the United States over missile defense in Europe---have been completely censored by the press. Apart from one brief excerpt which appeared in a Washington Post editorial, (and which was used to criticize Putin) the press conference has been scrubbed from the public record. It never happened."
Perhaps it was not intentional censorship. After all, what is happening with Paris Hilton and all the other celebs is so much more important than discussing a possible arms race, nuclear weapons, and the imperialism of the United States.
Perhaps it was not intentional censorship. After all, what is happening with Paris Hilton and all the other celebs is so much more important than discussing a possible arms race, nuclear weapons, and the imperialism of the United States.
Think Progress » Snow: Bush Will Not Listen To No Confidence Vote, ‘Not A Bit’
Think Progress » Snow: Bush Will Not Listen To No Confidence Vote, ‘Not A Bit’: "Tomorrow, the Senate will introduce a no confidence resolution on the management and credibility of embattled Attorney General Alberto Gonzales. Rarely used throughout American history, the resolution, if passed, would be a 'historical black mark' on Gonzales and the Bush administration."
Bush will not listen? No way!!! He must keep Gonzales in order to continue the election-rigging process. If we have an election in 2008, the administration must make sure another neocon puppet is sworn in. (Giuliani)
Update: Check out this little statement from Bush about the matter at hand, found on Salon.com:
"'Yes, it's an interesting comment about Congress, isn't it?' Bush responded. 'On the one hand, they say that a good general shouldn't be reconfirmed, and on the other hand, they say that my attorney general shouldn't stay. And I find it interesting. I guess it reflects the political atmosphere of Washington. And they can try to have their votes of no confidence, but it's not going to determine -- make the determination who serves in my government.'"
Apparently our government is no longer "of the people, by the people, for the people." The government belongs to the decider, King George of America.
Bush will not listen? No way!!! He must keep Gonzales in order to continue the election-rigging process. If we have an election in 2008, the administration must make sure another neocon puppet is sworn in. (Giuliani)
Update: Check out this little statement from Bush about the matter at hand, found on Salon.com:
"'Yes, it's an interesting comment about Congress, isn't it?' Bush responded. 'On the one hand, they say that a good general shouldn't be reconfirmed, and on the other hand, they say that my attorney general shouldn't stay. And I find it interesting. I guess it reflects the political atmosphere of Washington. And they can try to have their votes of no confidence, but it's not going to determine -- make the determination who serves in my government.'"
Apparently our government is no longer "of the people, by the people, for the people." The government belongs to the decider, King George of America.
Truthdig - Ear to the Ground - Colin Powell: Close Guantanamo Immediately
Truthdig - Ear to the Ground - Colin Powell: Close Guantanamo Immediately: "Colin Powell has come out against Guantanamo Bay: 'Guantanamo has become a major, major problem ... in the way the world perceives America and if it were up to me I would close Guantanamo, not tomorrow but this afternoon.' The former secretary of state has been eager to rehabilitate his image in recent years after a disastrous WMD sales pitch at the U.N."
Another defection from a former Bush associate. Of course, his opinion will do nothing to change the "decider's" stance.
Another defection from a former Bush associate. Of course, his opinion will do nothing to change the "decider's" stance.
China using 'child labour' to produce Olympics merchandise | Press Esc
China using 'child labour' to produce Olympics merchandise | Press Esc: "12 year-old children are forced to work 12 hours a day, seven days a week in unsafe and unhealthy conditions making Olympic merchandise, according to a report released by labour rights group ahead of the International Olympic Committee meeting in London today."
Is displacing more than a million people and adding to China's child labor problem really worth it for an athletic competition? Perhaps the decision makers of the Olympic committee should reconsider allowing China to host the games in the future.
Is displacing more than a million people and adding to China's child labor problem really worth it for an athletic competition? Perhaps the decision makers of the Olympic committee should reconsider allowing China to host the games in the future.
AlterNet: Environment: Colony Collapse: Do Massive Bee Die-Offs Mean an End to Our Food System as We Know it?
AlterNet: Environment: Colony Collapse: Do Massive Bee Die-Offs Mean an End to Our Food System as We Know it?: "What is so serious is not only that the bees themselves are dying off without a smoking gun present, but that most people have no idea of the role they play in the food supply at large. Commercial beehives pollinate over a third of America's crops, and that web of nourishment encompasses everything from fruits like peaches, apples, cherries, strawberries and more, to nuts like California almonds, 90 percent of which are helped along by the honeybees."
This is quite a disturbing phenomenon. In this article they mainly discuss the hives of commercial beekeepers, but this is also happening in the natural bee world. We could have serious problems if this trend does not change. Are our environmental practices to blame, or, possibly, our genetically engineered crops?
This is quite a disturbing phenomenon. In this article they mainly discuss the hives of commercial beekeepers, but this is also happening in the natural bee world. We could have serious problems if this trend does not change. Are our environmental practices to blame, or, possibly, our genetically engineered crops?
Sunday, June 10, 2007
For U.S. Unit in Baghdad, An Alliance of Last Resort - washingtonpost.com
For U.S. Unit in Baghdad, An Alliance of Last Resort - washingtonpost.com: "The American soldiers in Amiriyah have allied themselves with dozens of Sunni militiamen who call themselves the Baghdad Patriots -- a group that American soldiers believe includes insurgents who have attacked them in the past -- in an attempt to drive out al-Qaeda in Iraq. The Americans have granted these gunmen the power of arrest, allowed the Iraqi army to supply them with ammunition, and fought alongside them in chaotic street battles."
"'We have made a deal with the devil,' said an intelligence officer in the battalion."
How many times have we tried deals like this in the past and ended up paying for them in American lives?
"'We have made a deal with the devil,' said an intelligence officer in the battalion."
How many times have we tried deals like this in the past and ended up paying for them in American lives?
FOXNews.com - Owner Seeks $10 Million for Flight 93 Memorial Land - Local News | News Articles | National News | US News
FOXNews.com - Owner Seeks $10 Million for Flight 93 Memorial Land - Local News | News Articles | National News | US News: "Svonavec wants $10 million for his 273-acre property in Somerset County, far more than the per-acre amount paid for nearby land, White said Tuesday. He said Svonavec told him about his asking price last July, and that he has rejected three offers from the group — the latest for more than $500,000."
Here is the true American spirit: do anything to profit from the tragic loss of innocent American lives. Why not? Giuliani did it...
Here is the true American spirit: do anything to profit from the tragic loss of innocent American lives. Why not? Giuliani did it...
Pentagon shuts down portrait exhibit of US troops killed in Iraq | Press Esc
Pentagon shuts down portrait exhibit of US troops killed in Iraq | Press Esc: "The US Department of Defence has abruptly shut down Faces of the Fallen, an exhibition of 1,319 portraits of American military killed in Afghanistan and Iraq on the pretext of sending the portraits 'home to the families of the troops to serve as a lasting tribute to their service.'"
They must be running out of room for all the portraits. The funny thing is that they are not actually granting the money required to disassemble the memorial, though they ordered it shut down.
They must be running out of room for all the portraits. The funny thing is that they are not actually granting the money required to disassemble the memorial, though they ordered it shut down.
China forcibly evicts 1.5 million people for Olympics | Press Esc
China forcibly evicts 1.5 million people for Olympics | Press Esc: "The Chinese authorities are forcibly evicting 1.5 million people from their homes in Beijing without compensating them to make way for the Olympics leaving many displaced former residents homeless, the Centre on Housing Rights and Evictions revealed this week.
According to the Geneva based rights group's field research, based on Chinese government statements and documents, by April 2007, at least 1.25 million people have already been displaced as a result of urban development linked to the Olympic Games, and unknown numbers of these people were forcibly evicted."
The darker side of the Olympic games...
According to the Geneva based rights group's field research, based on Chinese government statements and documents, by April 2007, at least 1.25 million people have already been displaced as a result of urban development linked to the Olympic Games, and unknown numbers of these people were forcibly evicted."
The darker side of the Olympic games...
The Raw Story | Iran warns US: your Mideast bases in our range
The Raw Story | Iran warns US: your Mideast bases in our range: "'All the American bases in the region are within the reach of our weapons,' said Mohammad Baqer Zolghadr, the deputy interior minister in charge of security issues. 'If the United States attacked Iran, US interests would be in danger everywhere in the world,' added Zolghadr, a former deputy chief of Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards."
They are prepared for war. Are we really prepared?
They are prepared for war. Are we really prepared?
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Official: Cheney Urged Wiretaps - washingtonpost.com
Official: Cheney Urged Wiretaps - washingtonpost.com: "Comey said that Cheney's office later blocked the promotion of a senior Justice Department lawyer, Patrick Philbin, because of his role in raising concerns about the surveillance."
I am surprised that Cheney did not ship him off to Gitmo, or at least make him resign. He should consider himself lucky.
I am surprised that Cheney did not ship him off to Gitmo, or at least make him resign. He should consider himself lucky.
Andy Borowitz: TB Guy Tops Bush in New Poll - Politics on The Huffington Post
Andy Borowitz: TB Guy Tops Bush in New Poll - Politics on The Huffington Post: "In the latest sign of erosion for President George W. Bush's job approval rating, a new poll released today reveals that Mr. Bush is now less popular among the American people than the so-called 'TB Guy,' Atlanta attorney Andrew Speaker.
While the president's approval numbers have been in a virtual free-fall in recent months, few political insiders expected him to be trounced by Mr. Speaker, who has been accused of exposing airline passengers to tuberculosis.
Additionally, the poll results are historic in another way, since they mark the first time that a sitting president has been deemed less popular than a quarantined disease carrier."
This is great. When you think about it though, even if all of the people who were in contact Mr. Speaker developed tuberculosis, he still would have caused less deaths than Bush.
While the president's approval numbers have been in a virtual free-fall in recent months, few political insiders expected him to be trounced by Mr. Speaker, who has been accused of exposing airline passengers to tuberculosis.
Additionally, the poll results are historic in another way, since they mark the first time that a sitting president has been deemed less popular than a quarantined disease carrier."
This is great. When you think about it though, even if all of the people who were in contact Mr. Speaker developed tuberculosis, he still would have caused less deaths than Bush.
WorldNetDaily: China exports lead poisoning
WorldNetDaily: China exports lead poisoning: "WND Exclusive China exports lead poisoning
From eye shadow to glazed pottery, products pose danger to U.S. kids
Posted: June 7, 2007, 1:00 a.m. Eastern
© 2007 WorldNetDaily.com
Chinese eye shadow has been found to be tainted with both lead and microbiological contamination
WASHINGTON – In the wake of scandals involving tainted food and toothpaste from China comes word of a new concern from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission as well as the Food and Drug Administration – toys, makeup, glazed pottery and other products that contain significant amounts of lead."
Why bother with an expensive war, when you can poison millions of Americans with food and cheap manufactured goods. Do you think it may be planned?
From eye shadow to glazed pottery, products pose danger to U.S. kids
Posted: June 7, 2007, 1:00 a.m. Eastern
© 2007 WorldNetDaily.com
Chinese eye shadow has been found to be tainted with both lead and microbiological contamination
WASHINGTON – In the wake of scandals involving tainted food and toothpaste from China comes word of a new concern from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission as well as the Food and Drug Administration – toys, makeup, glazed pottery and other products that contain significant amounts of lead."
Why bother with an expensive war, when you can poison millions of Americans with food and cheap manufactured goods. Do you think it may be planned?
CIA 'disappeared' seven-year-old children | Press Esc
CIA 'disappeared' seven-year-old children | Press Esc: "Children as young as seven years old were 'forcibly disappeared' by the CIA, according to report published today jointly by six human rights groups naming 39 people who are believed to have been held in secret US custody and whose current whereabouts remain unknown.
The list-drafted by Amnesty International, Cageprisoners, the Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR), the Center for Human Rights and Global Justice at New York University School of Law, Human Rights Watch, and Reprieve-draws together information from government and media sources, as well as from interviews with former prisoners and other witnesses."
We must be in real trouble if a 7 year-old child is a serious threat to our national security. It was probably a CIA tactic to coerce one of the family members.
The list-drafted by Amnesty International, Cageprisoners, the Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR), the Center for Human Rights and Global Justice at New York University School of Law, Human Rights Watch, and Reprieve-draws together information from government and media sources, as well as from interviews with former prisoners and other witnesses."
We must be in real trouble if a 7 year-old child is a serious threat to our national security. It was probably a CIA tactic to coerce one of the family members.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Gothamist: Dude, Where's My Bike?
Gothamist: Dude, Where's My Bike?: "According to Time’s Up!, Robert Carnevale was arrested while videotaping the bike raid after he asked one of the officers for his badge number. Carole Vale, a nurse observing the scene, was also arrested when she asked why Mr. Carnevale was being detained. Mr. Carnevale was held for 22 hours and Ms. Vale was held for 13 hours. Time's Up!, along with the 6th Street cycling community are asking for a meeting with the commanding officer of the Ninth Precinct to explain the actions of the NYPD and to ask for their bikes back."
Yet another incident of police abusing authority. Don't you dare ask why you or someone else is being arrested when there is no perceivable reason.
Yet another incident of police abusing authority. Don't you dare ask why you or someone else is being arrested when there is no perceivable reason.
Japanese robot likes sushi, fears president - Yahoo! News
Japanese robot likes sushi, fears president - Yahoo! News: "The robot has 19 movable parts underneath the silicone face mask. When the robot hears the word 'president,' the online database picks up associated words such as 'Bush,' 'war' and 'Iraq' and creates an expression which the researchers said is meant to mix fear and disgust."
LOL, even Japanese robots hate Bush. I would like to place an order for 2,000 of them, with armor and weapons please. (Feds: That is a JOKE, please read the dictionary)
LOL, even Japanese robots hate Bush. I would like to place an order for 2,000 of them, with armor and weapons please. (Feds: That is a JOKE, please read the dictionary)
Bush: Russians have derailed reforms - Yahoo! News
Bush: Russians have derailed reforms - Yahoo! News: "'In Russia, reforms that once promised to empower citizens have been derailed, with troubling implications for democratic development,' Bush said, speaking at a conference of current and former dissidents."
Ok, Mr Bush, how arrogant of you to say this, when you are doing the same for your own country. Examples: warrantless wiretapping, limiting free speech (free speech zones, journalist arrests, surveillance of peaceful activists), virtual elimination of habeas corpus, revision of "enemy combatants" to possibly include Americans, elimination of the Posse Commitus act, warrantless searches, torture of "enemy combatants," dictator-like powers in the case of a national emergency, and the list goes on.
Ok, Mr Bush, how arrogant of you to say this, when you are doing the same for your own country. Examples: warrantless wiretapping, limiting free speech (free speech zones, journalist arrests, surveillance of peaceful activists), virtual elimination of habeas corpus, revision of "enemy combatants" to possibly include Americans, elimination of the Posse Commitus act, warrantless searches, torture of "enemy combatants," dictator-like powers in the case of a national emergency, and the list goes on.
WorldNetDaily: Military positioned to launch action – here
WorldNetDaily: Military positioned to launch action – here: "The United States military is being positioned to be put into action under presidential authority in any one of a dozen scenarios within the United States – including natural disasters, epidemics, terrorist attacks, insurrections, or domestic violence including conspiracies, according to a report from WND columnist Jerome R. Corsi.
He has concluded that under the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America, the military of the United States and Canada are turning NORTHCOMM into a domestic military command structure, with authority extending to Mexico, even though Mexico has not formally joined with the current United States-Canadian NORTHCOM command structure."
Wow, Bush's recent plans for declaring martial law, at the drop of a hat, are being extended to Canada and Mexico, as well. All hail King George, soon to be ruler of the world. (Except for Russia and China) This is troubling considering some other reports I have recently read about the North American Union. Also, Check this out on TruthEra. Can anyone say New World Order?
He has concluded that under the Security and Prosperity Partnership of North America, the military of the United States and Canada are turning NORTHCOMM into a domestic military command structure, with authority extending to Mexico, even though Mexico has not formally joined with the current United States-Canadian NORTHCOM command structure."
Wow, Bush's recent plans for declaring martial law, at the drop of a hat, are being extended to Canada and Mexico, as well. All hail King George, soon to be ruler of the world. (Except for Russia and China) This is troubling considering some other reports I have recently read about the North American Union. Also, Check this out on TruthEra. Can anyone say New World Order?
Gingrich Rips ‘Dysfunctional’ Administration : TruthEra.com - Uncover the Truth
Gingrich Rips ‘Dysfunctional’ Administration : TruthEra.com - Uncover the Truth: "Former House speaker Newt Gingrich, who is considering a run for the Republican presidential nomination in 2008, said Sunday that President George W. Bush is leading an administration that “is not functioning. It’s not getting the job done.”"
Oh yes, and Newt Gingrich would be so much better, I am sure. A large portion of his own party cannot stand him. And let's not forget his troubled ethics and the extra-marital affair he had while Clinton was undergoing impeachment hearings for his affair. (Wikipedia)
Oh yes, and Newt Gingrich would be so much better, I am sure. A large portion of his own party cannot stand him. And let's not forget his troubled ethics and the extra-marital affair he had while Clinton was undergoing impeachment hearings for his affair. (Wikipedia)
Bush derails attempts to end illegal wiretapping | Press Esc
Bush derails attempts to end illegal wiretapping | Press Esc: "President Bush derailed a bill by the US Congress aimed at ending the Administration's illegal wiretapping by not providing documents related to the President’s warrantless wiretapping program to the Senate Intelligence Committee that is currently reviewing the proposed legislation"
Why should King George have to account to anyone anyway? This is not a democracy, but his "democracy," and his alone.
Why should King George have to account to anyone anyway? This is not a democracy, but his "democracy," and his alone.
The Raw Story | Fox analyst: 'Space aliens kidnapped president' and 'left this tool'
The Raw Story | Fox analyst: 'Space aliens kidnapped president' and 'left this tool': "The discussion led to an unlikely reversal of political positions, with conservative Fox political analyst Tammy Bruce describing the situation as 'another glaring example of the growing incompetency of the Bush administration and his foreign policy,' while Democratic strategist Bob Beckel concluded that 'I support Bush on this ... and it's a strange day when I do that.'"
Surprisingly, it is a right-winger calling Bush a tool, and a lefty supporting Bush. But then again, immigration reform has always been unpopular with the right.
Surprisingly, it is a right-winger calling Bush a tool, and a lefty supporting Bush. But then again, immigration reform has always been unpopular with the right.
FOXNews.com - U.S. Embassy in Baghdad Not Yet Finished But Ready to Grow - Politics | Republican Party | Democratic Party | Political Spectrum
FOXNews.com - U.S. Embassy in Baghdad Not Yet Finished But Ready to Grow - Politics | Republican Party | Democratic Party | Political Spectrum: "WASHINGTON — It’s as big as Vatican City and makes the foreign embassies dotting the tree-lined streets of Washington, D.C., look like carriage houses, but the barely-finished U.S. embassy in Baghdad is already primed for expansion."
It is already the largest planned embassy in the world, and they still need to expand it. Inside, the fortunate employees will be able to go shopping at the PX, take refuge from the desert temps in the huge pool, or catch a movie at the cinema. Meanwhile, outside the fence, struggling Iraqi's will pray not to get bombed or shot at, and really won't have time to worry about their undrinkable water and failing electricity infrastructure. Why do the militants hate us?
It is already the largest planned embassy in the world, and they still need to expand it. Inside, the fortunate employees will be able to go shopping at the PX, take refuge from the desert temps in the huge pool, or catch a movie at the cinema. Meanwhile, outside the fence, struggling Iraqi's will pray not to get bombed or shot at, and really won't have time to worry about their undrinkable water and failing electricity infrastructure. Why do the militants hate us?
Monday, June 4, 2007
AlterNet: Blogs: PEEK: How To Foil a Terrorist Plot in Seven Simple Steps
AlterNet: Blogs: PEEK: How To Foil a Terrorist Plot in Seven Simple Steps: "3. The fact that you do not know any actual terrorists should not in any way deter you. Necessity is the mother of invention: if you can find the right raw material -- a sad, sick, lonely, drunk, deranged, disgruntled or just plain anti-American Muslim somewhere in the United States -- you can make your very own terrorist."
Funny, sounds a lot like many of the "terrorist" arrests that have happened since 9/11, usually at convenient points in the political time line.
Funny, sounds a lot like many of the "terrorist" arrests that have happened since 9/11, usually at convenient points in the political time line.
globeandmail.com: Putin threatens to target Europe
globeandmail.com: Putin threatens to target Europe: "MOSCOW — In a threat not uttered since the Cold War, Vladimir Putin said that Russia intends to aim its missile systems - potentially nuclear weapons - at targets in Europe in retaliation for the U.S. decision to establish antimissile bases there.
During a lengthy dinner, Russia's President defended his semi-authoritarian style and insisted he is the world's only true democrat. In an interview with The Globe and Mail and a small circle of other journalists, he stressed that his country is not moving away from a market economy, refused to consider extraditing a former KGB agent charged with poisoning a dissident in London, and lashed out repeatedly at the United States and NATO for operating in countries previously within Russia's sphere of influence."
Here we go again. Bush has transformed Russia from a friend to an enemy because he is meddling in places he should not. I believe the question now is not if we get hit by a nuclear device from a country we are angering, but when.
During a lengthy dinner, Russia's President defended his semi-authoritarian style and insisted he is the world's only true democrat. In an interview with The Globe and Mail and a small circle of other journalists, he stressed that his country is not moving away from a market economy, refused to consider extraditing a former KGB agent charged with poisoning a dissident in London, and lashed out repeatedly at the United States and NATO for operating in countries previously within Russia's sphere of influence."
Here we go again. Bush has transformed Russia from a friend to an enemy because he is meddling in places he should not. I believe the question now is not if we get hit by a nuclear device from a country we are angering, but when.
Sunday, June 3, 2007
The Raw Story | Murtha: Iraq War incites homegrown terror groups
The Raw Story | Murtha: Iraq War incites homegrown terror groups: "Rep. John Murtha (D-PA), on ABC's morning news show This Week, argued that the US presence in Iraq is being used by al Qaeda as a recruitment tool.
When asked by host George Stephanopoulos if 'homegrown terrorist plots,' like the one to attack JFK airport, were 'being inspired by the US work in Iraq,' Murtha responded, 'Absolutely.'"
Of course, the US cannot try to take over the world with absolutely no consequences on its own soil. Stay out of the world's business.
When asked by host George Stephanopoulos if 'homegrown terrorist plots,' like the one to attack JFK airport, were 'being inspired by the US work in Iraq,' Murtha responded, 'Absolutely.'"
Of course, the US cannot try to take over the world with absolutely no consequences on its own soil. Stay out of the world's business.
The Raw Story | Arkansas GOP head: We need more 'attacks on American soil' so people appreciate Bush
The Raw Story | Arkansas GOP head: We need more 'attacks on American soil' so people appreciate Bush: "In his first interview as the chairman of the Arkansas Republican Party, Dennis Milligan told a reporter that America needs to be attacked by terrorists so that people will appreciate the work that President Bush has done to protect the country.
'At the end of the day, I believe fully the president is doing the right thing, and I think all we need is some attacks on American soil like we had on [Sept. 11, 2001],' Milligan said to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 'and the naysayers will come around very quickly to appreciate not only the commitment for President Bush, but the sacrifice that has been made by men and women to protect this country.'"
What a an idiot, but of course, that is Bush's plan to take complete control, another "terrorist" attack. I am sure he will enlist the help of the CIA, and the Al-Queda operatives that they are allegedly now paying, to do his bidding.
'At the end of the day, I believe fully the president is doing the right thing, and I think all we need is some attacks on American soil like we had on [Sept. 11, 2001],' Milligan said to the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, 'and the naysayers will come around very quickly to appreciate not only the commitment for President Bush, but the sacrifice that has been made by men and women to protect this country.'"
What a an idiot, but of course, that is Bush's plan to take complete control, another "terrorist" attack. I am sure he will enlist the help of the CIA, and the Al-Queda operatives that they are allegedly now paying, to do his bidding.
Saturday, June 2, 2007
U.S. government fights to keep meatpackers from testing all slaughtered cattle for mad cow - International Herald Tribune
U.S. government fights to keep meatpackers from testing all slaughtered cattle for mad cow - International Herald Tribune: "WASHINGTON: The Bush administration said Tuesday it will fight to keep meatpackers from testing all their animals for mad cow disease.
The Agriculture Department tests fewer than 1 percent of slaughtered cows for the disease, which can be fatal to humans who eat tainted beef. A beef producer in the western state of Kansas, Creekstone Farms Premium Beef, wants to test all of its cows."
Once again Bush fights to keep the corporate profits high, while failing to keep the people safe. Those tests can be expensive, so let the people die.
The Agriculture Department tests fewer than 1 percent of slaughtered cows for the disease, which can be fatal to humans who eat tainted beef. A beef producer in the western state of Kansas, Creekstone Farms Premium Beef, wants to test all of its cows."
Once again Bush fights to keep the corporate profits high, while failing to keep the people safe. Those tests can be expensive, so let the people die.
U.S. warship bombards Somalia militants - Yahoo! News
U.S. warship bombards Somalia militants - Yahoo! News:
"MOGADISHU, Somalia - A U.S. warship pounded Somalia's remote coastal northeast, targeting Islamic militants hours after a gunbattle with Somali government forces that left eight insurgents dead, officials said Saturday."
We just cannot keep our fingers off the triggers. Maybe the sailors just needed some target practice before they have to start raining artillery down on Iran.
"MOGADISHU, Somalia - A U.S. warship pounded Somalia's remote coastal northeast, targeting Islamic militants hours after a gunbattle with Somali government forces that left eight insurgents dead, officials said Saturday."
We just cannot keep our fingers off the triggers. Maybe the sailors just needed some target practice before they have to start raining artillery down on Iran.
The Daily Dish: "Verschärfte Vernehmung"
The Daily Dish: "Verschärfte Vernehmung":
"The phrase 'Verschärfte Vernehmung' is German for 'enhanced interrogation'. Other translations include 'intensified interrogation' or 'sharpened interrogation'. It's a phrase that appears to have been concocted in 1937, to describe a form of torture that would leave no marks, and hence save the embarrassment pre-war Nazi officials were experiencing as their wounded torture victims ended up in court. The methods, as you can see above, are indistinguishable from those described as 'enhanced interrogation techniques' by the president. As you can see from the Gestapo memo, moreover, the Nazis were adamant that their 'enhanced interrogation techniques' would be carefully restricted and controlled, monitored by an elite professional staff, of the kind recommended by Charles Krauthammer, and strictly reserved for certain categories of prisoner. At least, that was the original plan."
For some reason, it is not surprising that our torture techniques and the Nazi torture techniques are quite similar.
"The phrase 'Verschärfte Vernehmung' is German for 'enhanced interrogation'. Other translations include 'intensified interrogation' or 'sharpened interrogation'. It's a phrase that appears to have been concocted in 1937, to describe a form of torture that would leave no marks, and hence save the embarrassment pre-war Nazi officials were experiencing as their wounded torture victims ended up in court. The methods, as you can see above, are indistinguishable from those described as 'enhanced interrogation techniques' by the president. As you can see from the Gestapo memo, moreover, the Nazis were adamant that their 'enhanced interrogation techniques' would be carefully restricted and controlled, monitored by an elite professional staff, of the kind recommended by Charles Krauthammer, and strictly reserved for certain categories of prisoner. At least, that was the original plan."
For some reason, it is not surprising that our torture techniques and the Nazi torture techniques are quite similar.
Friday, June 1, 2007
Health Care GREED
This post is about my family's experiences with one of my local hospitals in Schenectady, St. Claire's. Though it was once a good hospital, it has gone to crap in a matter of a few years.
Last September, my mother passed away from a stroke. It was the last of many strokes. The first stroke took a while to find. She had unexplained vision changes, and went to St. Claire's for it several times. On the final time, they decided to do a CAT scan. They finally realized it was a stroke, and that she had several of them previously, all relatively minor. Unbeknownst to me at the time, a sudden change in vision is a classic sign of a stroke, but, then again, I do not have a medical degree and earn six figures with it. They should have run a CAT scan the first time, and the fact that they did not do it was completely negligent on their part.
Shortly after my mother passed, my sister had a baby. She has always had troubled pregnancies that result in bed rest. In this case, the placenta ripped away from the wall of the uterus, as I understand. This left my sister bleeding profusely. Upon arriving at St. Claire's, much to her horror, they did not have a doctor available to treat her condition and perform the c-section. While she lay bleeding, they tried to track down their on-call doctors. None of their doctors would answer, so they essentially pulled out a phone book and started dialing unaffiliated, random doctors. It took a while for him to show up, and he walked in screaming at the nurses. He had expected, understandably, that my sister would be prepped for the c-section and that they would have the correct equipment in the room. They failed on both accounts, and my sister had to wait even longer for them to get everything set up. Minute by minute she crept closer to death. Fortunately, she and the baby are now healthy and happy, thanks to the work of the good doctor.
If that were no bad enough, because the baby was slightly premature, they decided to transfer the baby to the NICU at nearby Bellvue hospital. They, however, told my sister that they could not transfer her, because they did not have that type of agreement with Bellvue. My other sister watched over the baby, and happened to find out that that was a total lie from the nurses at Bellvue. Upon raising hell, the baby and mother were reunited. St. Claire's simply wanted the profit from the c-section recovery in their greedy hands.
Finally, it is time for my father's story. Due to declining health and a limited income, he recently moved in with me so that I could help him out. Thursday morning, he woke up with a severe loss of vision. He could not even see my greyhound atlas, as he was licking my father's face. Of course, I knew immediately that there was a possibility that he had a stroke. Unfortunately, we happen to live across the street from St. Claire's. Panicked, and with the knowledge that every minute can count in a stroke, we went across the street. I told them what was going on, and that a stroke was one of my suspicions. They did the standard triage regiment, said they would order a CAT scan, and then did some eye tests. After a few minutes the doctor came back, and said that my father should go to an eye specialist in nearby Latham.
The specialist said that the problem was due to cataracts. My father was warned a year ago that cataracts were starting to form, but they take several years to cause that kind of blindness, and it does not happen overnight. Skeptical, my sister tried to convince my father to go to Ellis, another local hospital that is better with strokes, immediately. He was very tired, however, and refused. After listening him describe his problems further, I managed to convince him to go today. As we suspected, it was a stroke.
Why had St. Claire's ignored it? My father owed them 16,000 from a previous visit, where they ran numerous expensive tests on him, and could not find anything at all wrong with him, except for high blood pressure. He walked out with a prescription to treat high blood pressure.
I know that they knew it was a stroke, they just did not want to get stuck with the bill. Unfortunately for them, my father will be getting Medicaid soon, which pays retroactively 3 months upon sign up. Then there is the eye doctor who already scheduled the removal of the "cataracts."
So, two parents and four children. This hospital has managed to make decisions that could have killed three out of the six of us, just in the last two years. Try to tell me that the health care system is not broken... It is ALL about profit. New fact, 8 dollars a day to watch TV in your room, with less than 20 channels. That is about 240 a month, and I pay about 70 for hundreds of channels. If you do not want to stare at the walls for hours upon hours, you pay through the nose.
This hospital is dealing with life or death, and it is likely to deal out death. Stay away from St. Claire's in Schenectady.
Last September, my mother passed away from a stroke. It was the last of many strokes. The first stroke took a while to find. She had unexplained vision changes, and went to St. Claire's for it several times. On the final time, they decided to do a CAT scan. They finally realized it was a stroke, and that she had several of them previously, all relatively minor. Unbeknownst to me at the time, a sudden change in vision is a classic sign of a stroke, but, then again, I do not have a medical degree and earn six figures with it. They should have run a CAT scan the first time, and the fact that they did not do it was completely negligent on their part.
Shortly after my mother passed, my sister had a baby. She has always had troubled pregnancies that result in bed rest. In this case, the placenta ripped away from the wall of the uterus, as I understand. This left my sister bleeding profusely. Upon arriving at St. Claire's, much to her horror, they did not have a doctor available to treat her condition and perform the c-section. While she lay bleeding, they tried to track down their on-call doctors. None of their doctors would answer, so they essentially pulled out a phone book and started dialing unaffiliated, random doctors. It took a while for him to show up, and he walked in screaming at the nurses. He had expected, understandably, that my sister would be prepped for the c-section and that they would have the correct equipment in the room. They failed on both accounts, and my sister had to wait even longer for them to get everything set up. Minute by minute she crept closer to death. Fortunately, she and the baby are now healthy and happy, thanks to the work of the good doctor.
If that were no bad enough, because the baby was slightly premature, they decided to transfer the baby to the NICU at nearby Bellvue hospital. They, however, told my sister that they could not transfer her, because they did not have that type of agreement with Bellvue. My other sister watched over the baby, and happened to find out that that was a total lie from the nurses at Bellvue. Upon raising hell, the baby and mother were reunited. St. Claire's simply wanted the profit from the c-section recovery in their greedy hands.
Finally, it is time for my father's story. Due to declining health and a limited income, he recently moved in with me so that I could help him out. Thursday morning, he woke up with a severe loss of vision. He could not even see my greyhound atlas, as he was licking my father's face. Of course, I knew immediately that there was a possibility that he had a stroke. Unfortunately, we happen to live across the street from St. Claire's. Panicked, and with the knowledge that every minute can count in a stroke, we went across the street. I told them what was going on, and that a stroke was one of my suspicions. They did the standard triage regiment, said they would order a CAT scan, and then did some eye tests. After a few minutes the doctor came back, and said that my father should go to an eye specialist in nearby Latham.
The specialist said that the problem was due to cataracts. My father was warned a year ago that cataracts were starting to form, but they take several years to cause that kind of blindness, and it does not happen overnight. Skeptical, my sister tried to convince my father to go to Ellis, another local hospital that is better with strokes, immediately. He was very tired, however, and refused. After listening him describe his problems further, I managed to convince him to go today. As we suspected, it was a stroke.
Why had St. Claire's ignored it? My father owed them 16,000 from a previous visit, where they ran numerous expensive tests on him, and could not find anything at all wrong with him, except for high blood pressure. He walked out with a prescription to treat high blood pressure.
I know that they knew it was a stroke, they just did not want to get stuck with the bill. Unfortunately for them, my father will be getting Medicaid soon, which pays retroactively 3 months upon sign up. Then there is the eye doctor who already scheduled the removal of the "cataracts."
So, two parents and four children. This hospital has managed to make decisions that could have killed three out of the six of us, just in the last two years. Try to tell me that the health care system is not broken... It is ALL about profit. New fact, 8 dollars a day to watch TV in your room, with less than 20 channels. That is about 240 a month, and I pay about 70 for hundreds of channels. If you do not want to stare at the walls for hours upon hours, you pay through the nose.
This hospital is dealing with life or death, and it is likely to deal out death. Stay away from St. Claire's in Schenectady.
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