The Rooster
"Okeydoke"
Saturday, March 07, 2009
The Economic ties the USA and Russia can build should overshadow any objections to National Security issues regarding escalation of nukes.
Besides the obvious potential muscle flexing of how the USA exerts power when there are 'investments' abroad; the 'idea' that sensitive areas of the Russia economy can literally be invaded by Wall Street and breech their security venues is a huge issue. There are entanglements for investment in Russia that aren't healthy for Russia or the USA and those venues need to be eliminated if there is going to be healthy relationships of mutual interests.
The Bush/Cheney Executive Branch was interested in exploiting every aspect of Russian assets for their cronies. That level of 'invasive' economics is a direct threat to Russia and most communist countries and they risk a loss of their culture. As people within a country are 'demoralized' from their culture the stability of the government shifts and not always for the best. Any turmoil or uprising, if accompanied by violence, risks the people themselves that we hope to engage in 'trade.'
In the year 2009, I do not see 'investment' as healthy in any international relationship. It is a direct imposition on sovereignty and places too much importance on 'government control' which increases the risk of the investor and loss of their capital. We have witnessed repeatedly since 2000, challenges to oligarchs that sincerely threatened the stability of Russia, including those that obtained fighter jets for the building of their own empires.
The point is that 'invasive investing' touted by the Republicans as capitalism and the expansion of democratic principles is far from it. Communist nations do not provide 'private ownership' of property. They will never have a 'mortgage crisis' simply because they don't own property. One of the ways that Democracy is imposed on these nations is to demand 'owenship rights' of natural resources and 'other concepts' of investment such as 'intellectual property.'
It is my opinion, the 'Western' idea of investment is counter culture to countries such as Russia and do not serve to 'reassure' them when it come to building strong relationships with the USA and Europe. Commerce has literally become a 'weapon' between the USA and Russia and it is a dangerous one.
There are ways that Russia and the USA can build 'strong' economic ties in the way of trade, but, to insure such a relationship each country has to have something to trade. Healthy balances of goods transported to and from other nations to the USA is vital to a healthy global economy. The USA has to return to manufacturing goods as well as purchasing them. Part of the global economic collapse lies in the 'lack of balance of trade' between countries and the 'free for all' investment and credit extension by nations such as China. When China provides huge loans to the USA to fund its government programs, there are compromise to the Chinese economy when those 'investment structures' are insulted. As a result, the people of China are imposed upon to produce differently and our 'issues' then translate directly to Chinese hardship. It's "W"rong and it has to stop.
International relations between countries have to 'resume' better boundaries. The 'idea' that the world is 'one family of countries' needs to be scrapped. The economic interdependancy of the Bush "World of National Families' has proven to be a complete disaster. It threatened alliances and caused nations to move their 'interests' into 'isolationist' mode. If anyone wants to know where the majority of the first $350 billion of the $700 billion AMERICAN bank bailout disappeared to, one can look directly at the Chinese loan structure. The monies disappeared and China has made its case why such things should occur, but, the fact of the matter is countries need to redefine 'the wealth of nations' as trade partners with self sustaining economies rather than 'co-dependant' entities that can only separate their efforts through war.
Economic interdependence is NOT beneficial when it crashes every economy on Earth. It is not beneficial when it promotes abuses of Earth's troposphere and robs the well being of future generations. It is not beneficial when countries 'compete' unhealthly in the global economic sphere to 'take jobs' away from a nation's population for the sake of 'profits.' When profits 'override' beneficial relationships of diplomacy there is something vitally lost.
If "Peace" is to be a directive of the Obama Administration, there needs to be a redefinition of diplomacy to RETURN to traditional models of addressing issues in a way that moves past economic issues and address the priorities of Mutual Interests in National Security rather than interests in mutual investments. The dynamics are all "W"rong and need to be abandoned. The USA was on its way to becoming a third world nation with the military being the best paying job within its borders before the Obama Stimulus for the sake of outsourcing and destroyed manufacturing sector.
Let's not return to that in the future. To that end, disarming from nuclear capacity should be a high priority in cooperation with building strong economies with good trading relationships. The 'interest' of money is NOT the best outcome to diplomacy, but, securing countries from the brink of mutual distruction needs to be. Treaties and not contracts is the best venue for diplomatic corps.
...Foreign investment in the 39 strategic sectors of the Russian economy is monitored by the Federal Security Service (FSB),[44] the agency responsible for carrying out many functions formerly performed by the KGB. Investors that have either inadvertently or purposely committed their funds to one of these sectors will not be without due recourse, as the actions of the FSB in relation to foreign investment are still subject to oversight by Russian courts. For example, if the FSB finds out that foreigners have bought up shares in a strategic enterprise via Russian front companies, it will have to report this to the authorized body, and the government commission will challenge the deal in court. [45] ...
The problem of course, is that where America 'has interests' so goes its military. THAT is an issue with Russia. It hasn't been with China, but, then again China owns the USA for the most part.
The Bush/Cheney Executive Branch was interested in exploiting every aspect of Russian assets for their cronies. That level of 'invasive' economics is a direct threat to Russia and most communist countries and they risk a loss of their culture. As people within a country are 'demoralized' from their culture the stability of the government shifts and not always for the best. Any turmoil or uprising, if accompanied by violence, risks the people themselves that we hope to engage in 'trade.'
In the year 2009, I do not see 'investment' as healthy in any international relationship. It is a direct imposition on sovereignty and places too much importance on 'government control' which increases the risk of the investor and loss of their capital. We have witnessed repeatedly since 2000, challenges to oligarchs that sincerely threatened the stability of Russia, including those that obtained fighter jets for the building of their own empires.
The point is that 'invasive investing' touted by the Republicans as capitalism and the expansion of democratic principles is far from it. Communist nations do not provide 'private ownership' of property. They will never have a 'mortgage crisis' simply because they don't own property. One of the ways that Democracy is imposed on these nations is to demand 'owenship rights' of natural resources and 'other concepts' of investment such as 'intellectual property.'
It is my opinion, the 'Western' idea of investment is counter culture to countries such as Russia and do not serve to 'reassure' them when it come to building strong relationships with the USA and Europe. Commerce has literally become a 'weapon' between the USA and Russia and it is a dangerous one.
There are ways that Russia and the USA can build 'strong' economic ties in the way of trade, but, to insure such a relationship each country has to have something to trade. Healthy balances of goods transported to and from other nations to the USA is vital to a healthy global economy. The USA has to return to manufacturing goods as well as purchasing them. Part of the global economic collapse lies in the 'lack of balance of trade' between countries and the 'free for all' investment and credit extension by nations such as China. When China provides huge loans to the USA to fund its government programs, there are compromise to the Chinese economy when those 'investment structures' are insulted. As a result, the people of China are imposed upon to produce differently and our 'issues' then translate directly to Chinese hardship. It's "W"rong and it has to stop.
International relations between countries have to 'resume' better boundaries. The 'idea' that the world is 'one family of countries' needs to be scrapped. The economic interdependancy of the Bush "World of National Families' has proven to be a complete disaster. It threatened alliances and caused nations to move their 'interests' into 'isolationist' mode. If anyone wants to know where the majority of the first $350 billion of the $700 billion AMERICAN bank bailout disappeared to, one can look directly at the Chinese loan structure. The monies disappeared and China has made its case why such things should occur, but, the fact of the matter is countries need to redefine 'the wealth of nations' as trade partners with self sustaining economies rather than 'co-dependant' entities that can only separate their efforts through war.
Economic interdependence is NOT beneficial when it crashes every economy on Earth. It is not beneficial when it promotes abuses of Earth's troposphere and robs the well being of future generations. It is not beneficial when countries 'compete' unhealthly in the global economic sphere to 'take jobs' away from a nation's population for the sake of 'profits.' When profits 'override' beneficial relationships of diplomacy there is something vitally lost.
If "Peace" is to be a directive of the Obama Administration, there needs to be a redefinition of diplomacy to RETURN to traditional models of addressing issues in a way that moves past economic issues and address the priorities of Mutual Interests in National Security rather than interests in mutual investments. The dynamics are all "W"rong and need to be abandoned. The USA was on its way to becoming a third world nation with the military being the best paying job within its borders before the Obama Stimulus for the sake of outsourcing and destroyed manufacturing sector.
Let's not return to that in the future. To that end, disarming from nuclear capacity should be a high priority in cooperation with building strong economies with good trading relationships. The 'interest' of money is NOT the best outcome to diplomacy, but, securing countries from the brink of mutual distruction needs to be. Treaties and not contracts is the best venue for diplomatic corps.
...Foreign investment in the 39 strategic sectors of the Russian economy is monitored by the Federal Security Service (FSB),[44] the agency responsible for carrying out many functions formerly performed by the KGB. Investors that have either inadvertently or purposely committed their funds to one of these sectors will not be without due recourse, as the actions of the FSB in relation to foreign investment are still subject to oversight by Russian courts. For example, if the FSB finds out that foreigners have bought up shares in a strategic enterprise via Russian front companies, it will have to report this to the authorized body, and the government commission will challenge the deal in court. [45] ...
The problem of course, is that where America 'has interests' so goes its military. THAT is an issue with Russia. It hasn't been with China, but, then again China owns the USA for the most part.
VI. Conclusion
Russia Are foreign investors squandering valuable opportunities by not capitalizing on the business opportunities presented by the growth of the Russian economy? Or perhaps the reluctance to take on the risks Russia presents is justified? Is Russia really unsafe for foreign investors? Or is this just a stereotype propagated by the Western media fueled by doubt that Russia will ever be able to adopt a true market economy? Perhaps there is a genuine misunderstanding of Russia ’s strengthening government? Will the reforms touted by Putin’s administration really be enough to address Russia's historical problem of poorly defined property rights and protect investors? The answers to many of these questions will undoubtedly be revealed in the years to come.
How does Secretary Hillary actually reset a 'critical reset' button with Russia? Humor can help, but, the USA is seriously reclaiming its democracy..
...and it is a position Russia has never faced with the USA before. It is my estimate, the rapid deployment of diplomatic efforts by the USA would be a strong indication that the people of this country haven't changed 'their will' so much as had it kidnapped for some eight years.
Just the same, Russia needs reassurances that it will no longer fall victim to 'political trade winds' in the USA and ultimately face 'threats' again from a country that it has mostly existed in peace with for generations. Russia wants 'the doubt' of its power and integrity removed, how that is accomplished with this administration will be odd, interesting and cautiously approached. It will be more than interesting to see what the two diplomats initially agree upon and watch it grow from there.
Just the same, Russia needs reassurances that it will no longer fall victim to 'political trade winds' in the USA and ultimately face 'threats' again from a country that it has mostly existed in peace with for generations. Russia wants 'the doubt' of its power and integrity removed, how that is accomplished with this administration will be odd, interesting and cautiously approached. It will be more than interesting to see what the two diplomats initially agree upon and watch it grow from there.
Ali Saleh al Marri, 43, a Qatari, the only enemy combatant on U.S. soil, at the U.S. Navy brig at Charleston, S.C., brig in January 2009.
The Miami Herald knows something about foreign nationals that come to American soil with suspect pasts. It will be of interest to their opinion of all this, however, in seeking Russian support by Secretary Hillary where does Russia begin to 'estimate' its future with the USA? Where can the two countries agree and how do we 'close the gap' on uncertain wars in the future. The 'course' the USA was on was Anti-America. It was Anti-Democracy. It was Anti-American Prosperity. It was Anti-Peace. The USA was hostile, aggressive while at the same time, 'contained' through global efforts. It was a hideous place for the USA to exist and it was more than uncomfortable for many patriotic Americans.
In some ways, the Russians should know what it is to have a revitalization of 'The Worker's Party.' It shouldn't be so much of a reach to find 'common ground' and bring about constructive change to finally end the hideous presence of nuclear weapons on Earth. If we are to end nuclear weapon capacity as was the 'spirit' of Non-Proliferation; what are the understandings and will both countries legislatively cease such research as an initial way of verifying their overall intentions and as example to other countries, including Iran, that the day of 'The Bomb' is over?
Supreme Court ends enemy combatant's detention challenge (click here)
By MARK SHERMAN
Associated Press
WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Supreme Court dismissed a challenge Friday by suspected al Qaeda sleeper agent Ali al Marri to the president's authority to detain people without charges, granting an Obama administration request to end the high court case.
The Supreme Court also threw out, as moot, the federal appeals court ruling Marri was challenging that affirmed the president's power to detain people in the United States without trial.
Last week, President Barack Obama ordered Marri transferred from military to civilian custody to face federal charges of conspiracy and providing support to terrorists.
But Obama has not renounced the use of preventive detention, which was pursued and defended aggressively by the Bush administration after the terror attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The administration's silence on this issue was the main reason Marri's lawyers pushed the court to hear the case, even after their client got what he was seeking -- if not his release, a trial at which he could answer criminal charges....
As suspected previously, there was a lot of damage done to our intelligence agencies with the Bush/Cheney Executive Branch. Records destroyed, policies changed and basically turning a democratic process of handling 'critical' information into a dictatorship that would 'secure the exoneration of its Chief Executives.'
Until the agencies finally cleanse themselves of 'ill gotten' policy and over reaching authority there will be little change as security overrides change. The agencies will more than likely 'tweek' their procedures and laws to better accommodate the needs of the country. Incremental change may be the word of the day as a reassurance to those that handle sensitive information it is on the path to better protections from a position of strength rather than compromise. I would hope the change President Obama will bring to the intelligence communities are policies they have longer for to enhance their abilities while protecting the precious freedoms guaranteed every American.
Obama releases secret Bush anti-terror memos (click here)
By DEVLIN BARRETT and MATT APUZZO
Associated Press
WASHINGTON -- The Obama administration threw open the curtain on years of Bush-era secrets Monday, revealing anti-terror memos that claimed exceptional search-and-seizure powers and divulging that the CIA destroyed nearly 100 videotapes of interrogations and other treatment of terror suspects.
The Justice Department released nine legal opinions showing that, following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, the Bush administration determined that certain constitutional rights would not apply during the coming fight. Within two weeks, government lawyers were already discussing ways to wiretap U.S. conversations without warrants.
The Bush administration eventually abandoned many of the legal conclusions, but the documents themselves had been closely held. By releasing them, President Barack Obama continued a house-cleaning of the previous administration's most contentious policies....
Michael Moore. Are you paying attention? The 'Dream' is coming true.
It is going to take a short while to pass the necessary legislation to reform the American Health Care System, so until that occurs, President Obama has included a subsidy for people that can lose their coverage due to the recession/depression. 65% sudsidy to COBRA recipients so they can continue to keep their 'wellness' while looking for work.
Not bad, Mike.
Not bad at all.
Thank you.
More about the COBRA subsidy (click title to entry - thank you)
One thing is clear, only those who lost their jobs between Sept. 1, 2008, and Dec. 31, 2009, are eligible.
By Francesca Lunzer Kritz March 9, 2009
After last week’s column on the insurance subsidy included in President Obama's stimulus package, we received quite a lot of mail asking more questions. That's understandable. The details are complicated. In a nutshell, some laid-off employees can get a 65% subsidy, for up to nine months, to help defray the cost of continuing their healthcare coverage through a program known as COBRA. The subsidy only applies to people who lost, or will lose, their jobs between Sept. 1, 2008, and Dec. 31, 2009.
No money changes hands. People who qualify for the subsidy will pay their employers for 35% (instead of 100%) of coverage costs each month they receive subsidies, up to nine months. If an employee continues with COBRA after the nine months, the payment goes up to full cost....
Just laid off? Go for COBRA (click here)
Posted by Cheryl Costa March 5, 2009 10:06 AM
...Starting March 1, 2009, anyone who loses their job between August 31, 2008 and December 31, 2009 can elect coverage under COBRA and 65% of their premium will be paid by the government for up to nine months. That's a huge savings considering the cost of coverage for a family can be $1,000 per month or more. For example, without this new break, a family would be responsible for paying the full monthly COBRA premium. Now, the family would pay only 35 percent or $350 per month. Over nine months, that is a total savings of almost $6,000....
8 Questions You May Have About the New COBRA Subsidy (click here)
March 05, 2009 08:00 AM ET Michelle Andrews
...Unfortunately, passing the law is only the first step in the process. A significant amount of bureaucratic machinery must grind into gear before the federal government is ready to actually start paying for the subsidy. In fact, consumers may not get relief until May, says Cheryl Fish-Parcham, deputy director of health policy for Families USA, a consumer advocacy organization. If that happens, people who've paid their full premiums for March and/or April will be able to get either a refund for premiums paid since February 17, when the bill was signed, or a credit against future premiums....
Russ Feingold really suprised me when he wanted President Obama to veto the spending bill. I half expect Bayh to do such a thing, but, not Feingold.
U.S. President Barack Obama walks with the White House Chief Usher Stephen Rochon to the Oval Office before departing on a day trip to Ohio from the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, DC, March 6, 2009. (REUTERS/Joshua Roberts)
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Democratic-controlled U.S. Congress on Friday sent President Barack Obama a bill to fund much of the government into next week, after Democrats hit a snag wrapping up a $410 billion measure to pay for the rest of this fiscal year which ends September 30....
In a back handed way, Feingold and Bayh did President Obama a favor. By opposing a spending bill that takes care of the federal government operations until September 30, 2009; they brought to focus how silly the opposition was in the first place.
If the bill passed in a majority without a complaint it would appear to be an administration that simply spends without regard to promises or concern. But, when Bayh and Feingold opposed the omnibus bill because of 'earmarks (click here), it brought to focus the 'FACT' that President was telling the truth. Imagine that a President that doesn't lie and has the intelligence to know that vetoing a vital bill is out of the question regardless of campaign promises to stop earmarks.
See, the 'naysayers' are struggling to dismiss the 'real responsibility' for the earmarks, which are last years left overs AGAIN. It is sad to realize that people and even trusted Senators are literally 'lying' about the origins of these earmarks and how this administration is NOT responsible for them being attached to vital fiscal legislation.
President Obama is AGAIN correct. The only effective way of stopping the abusive use of earmarks is to generate legislation that prevents it. Hello?
It boggles my mind to understand why President Obama is smeared in the media and by others that simply can't seem to grasp how incredible his leadership is and appreciate the energy and 'capacity' he can bring to the Executive Branch. He is a very ambitious President, but, he's doing it all correctly. He is NOT taking on all the tasks alone, but, EMPOWERING groups of people to move all the issues regarding the economy, global warming and health care to the forefront of 'action' for resolution.
All these issues are inter-related. The economy can't be strong without the reform to health care the President is pursuing. People don't understand that? Why bother 'fixing' the economy and building new energy sources if the health of the nation will only put a drag on all the improvements.
I swear, some folks are simply 'Party - Poopers.' Go get 'em, Barak.
Senators may punish Feingold, Bayh for opposing spending bill (click here)
By Alexander Bolton
Posted: 03/05/09 07:25 PM [ET]
Senate Democrats are debating whether Sens. Russ Feingold (D-Wis.) and Evan Bayh (D-Ind.) should be punished for opposing a $410 billion omnibus.Some Senate Democrats, including members of the Appropriations Committee, are angry that Feingold and Bayh have panned the massive spending bill after legislative priorities important to both lawmakers were included in the package....
Friday, March 06, 2009
It happened like it was supposed to. My son and his bride got their mortgage.
They purchased their first home and it all went through without a hitch.
I do not lie.
The reasonable purchase of a home is still possible. They were anxious about nearly everything in this market, but, there are more rumors than truth. They had not one problem in the entire process. I am very proud of him. He protected his credit and still has a job as does his future spouse and they are living the dream. It is a home that was a foreclosure house, more house than they would have been able to buy in a 'normal' market, but, it was not an auction, it was purchased in all the traditional venues, through a realtor.
Let's hope it continues as smoothly as it started.
NEW YORK, NY (click title to entry - thank you) - In December 2008, improvements in home affordability and low mortgage rates contributed to a 7% year-over-year increase in home sales in the 25 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) tracked by Radar Logic Incorporated. According to the December 2008 RPXTM Monthly Housing Market Report released today by Radar Logic, transactions increased in 14 of the 25 MSAs, with the largest increase in metropolitan areas where sales of foreclosed homes constitute a significant share of total transactions, particularly Las Vegas, Phoenix and the five California MSAs covered by the report. Sales of foreclosed homes by financial institutions, together with sales to third parties at foreclosure auctions, increased 177% in the 25 MSAs between December 2007 and December 2008. Over the same period, all other sales decreased by 17%....
Thursday, March 05, 2009
There is no cold air mass over WAIS.
Researchers from Rutgers University spent four weeks at sea on the 247-foot research vessel Laurence M. Gould, gathering data on the changing climate in west Antarctica. (PHOTO COURTESY OF RUTGERS UNIVERSITY)
Seal and penguins in Antarctica, with research vessel Gould and palmer Station in background. (Photo by Oscar Schofield/Rutgers University).
Base Jubany, Antarctica
Local Time: 10:39 PM GMT (GMT +00)
Lat/Lon: 62.2° S 58.6° W
Elevation :: 13 feet
Temperature :: 42 °F
Conditions :: Partly Cloudy
Humidity :: 75%
Dew Point :: 37 °F
Wind :: 12 mph from the ESE
Pressure :: 28.86 in (Falling)
Visibility :: 7.0 miles
Clouds :: Scattered Clouds 1476 ft
Mostly Cloudy 9843 ft
(Above Ground Level)
Rutgers documenting Antarctic climate shift (click title to entry - thank you)
By Kirk Moore
STAFF WRITER
March 4, 2009
A pair of New Jersey-built undersea probes and eight Rutgers University researchers are documenting a dramatic climate shift near the bottom of the world, where warming currents off west Antarctica are remaking the ocean ecosystem — and dealing a wild card for predictions of global sea level rise.
"It's the fastest-warming area on Earth," said Oscar Schofield, a professor at the Rutgers Institute of Marine and Coastal Sciences, who recently returned from weeks at sea off the Antarctic Peninsula.
Scientists reckon that average temperatures on that side of the continent have risen since 1950, and the Rutgers team took its underwater vehicles and sensor technology there "to see how the ecosystem responds," Schofield said.
"The heat source down there isn't the atmosphere. It's the ocean," he said. "There's warmer water coming off the Antarctic circumpolar current. This is where the current is closest to the ice sheet."
Previously, most of the warming was thought to occur only on the peninsula pointing toward South America, said Colin Summerhayes, executive director of the Britain-based Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research and a member of International Polar Year's steering committee.
But now the committee reports wider warming. The biggest west Antarctic glacier, the Pine Island Glacier, is moving 40 percent faster than it was in the 1970s, discharging water and ice more rapidly into the ocean, Summerhayes said.
"If the west Antarctica sheet collapses, then we're looking at a sea level rise of between 1 meter and 1.5 meters," Summerhayes said. That would be a rise of 3 feet 4 inches to nearly 5 feet....
"The heat source down there isn't the atmosphere. It's the ocean," he said. "There's warmer water coming off the Antarctic circumpolar current. This is where the current is closest to the ice sheet."
Previously, most of the warming was thought to occur only on the peninsula pointing toward South America, said Colin Summerhayes, executive director of the Britain-based Scientific Committee on Antarctic Research and a member of International Polar Year's steering committee.
But now the committee reports wider warming. The biggest west Antarctic glacier, the Pine Island Glacier, is moving 40 percent faster than it was in the 1970s, discharging water and ice more rapidly into the ocean, Summerhayes said.
"If the west Antarctica sheet collapses, then we're looking at a sea level rise of between 1 meter and 1.5 meters," Summerhayes said. That would be a rise of 3 feet 4 inches to nearly 5 feet....
Afghanistan - Karzai leaves a void of leadership in May. Clinton Summit needs to determine degree of USA Aggressiveness.
2008 is the highest year of defense spending in history. The complexity of the 'region' is at issue. The continued 'upheavals' between India and Pakistan strains any good relations between the two countries. While Pakistan attempts to 'settle' the tribal areas through Sharia Law, it is still unknown the extent there will be a peaceful return. Bin Laden certainly seems to manage, doesn't he?
Current U.S. Defense Spending vs. Spending Since 1948 (click here)
March 6, 2009
Attack on Sri Lankan cricketers (click here)
Clear security lapses 10 min-->
New footage shows gunmen making leisurely getaway
This 'allowance' of violence 'migration' into Afghanistan in exchange for 'an understanding' in Pakistan to provide 'peaceful coexitence' will definately escalate the war and provide a venue to defend lands occupied by al Qaeda. The 'cricket attacks' were more than likely conducted by al Qaeda as the 'use of motor bikes' is a classic escape for them. Find the terrorists that carried out the attacks and it might be the same place bin Laden calls home.
The 'occupation' of the tribal areas by the Taliban and al Qaede under the guise of 'peaceful coexistence' will ultimately lead to expansion as the population grows and the government becomes more competent in organizing attacks like those against the Sri Lanken Cricket Team as a show of strength.
Pakistan is an issue and has been. It is a grossly chaotic country that allows terrorists a haven, willingly or not.
Islamic Sharia law expands in northwest Pakistan (click here)
Pakistani officials agree to 17 steps as part of a peace deal with extremists in the Swat Valley, alarming rights groups and others. Also, a bomb explodes at a Sufi mausoleum in Peshawar.
By Mark Magnier 12:30 PM PST, March 5, 2009
Reporting from Lahore, Pakistan -- In an apparent expansion of Islamic fundamentalists' authority in the picturesque Swat Valley, local Pakistani officials have agreed to close shops at prayer times and crack down on prostitution and drug dealing as part of a proposed peace deal, according to local media reports Thursday....
Current U.S. Defense Spending vs. Spending Since 1948 (click here)
The elections in Afghanistan won't occur until August of this year, yet the Karzai term ends in May. The additional troops are stated to be an asset to the election process, but, long term efforts need goals.
Power struggle over timing of Afghan election (click here)
Pamela Constable, Washington Post
Thursday, March 5, 2009
(03-05) 04:00 PST Kabul, Afghanistan -- A deepening power struggle over the date for upcoming presidential elections is exposing the ugly, destructive side of politics in Afghanistan and raising questions about the viability of a crucial transition for this struggling, Western-backed democracy.
The conflict pits President Hamid Karzai, who hopes to win re-election after seven years in power, against an array of rivals eager to see him dethroned at any cost, and against members of an independent election commission whose desire to postpone the polling is supported by the United States, the United Nations and NATO.
It also leaves unresolved the critical question of who will lead the country during the summer months, when the Islamist Taliban insurgency is expected to intensify its attacks and thousands of U.S. troops will arrive. Karzai's term ends in May, and elections are currently scheduled for August....
Murtha says Afghanistan plan lacks goal (click title to entry - Thank you)
By Kimberly Hefling
The Associated PressPosted : Tuesday Mar 3, 2009 21:21:17 EST
WASHINGTON — Rep. John Murtha said Tuesday the situation in Afghanistan is so challenging that he estimated it would take 600,000 troops to fully squelch violence in the country.
The Pennsylvania Democrat, who chairs the powerful subcommittee that funds the military, said his figure was based on the country’s history of rigorous fighting and its size.
“That’s what I estimate it would take in a country that size to get it under control,” Murtha said in an interview.
Murtha also said he’s uncomfortable with President Barack Obama’s decision to increase the number of troops in the country by 17,000 before a goal was clearly defined. But he says he anticipates a plan will be developed to train Afghan security forces, and then the U.S. military will get out. He said he sees Afghanistan has more of a diplomatic mission, than a military one.
“I think you’ll see a change,” Murtha said. “I’m confident you’re going to see them only adjusting for a short period of time with these additional troops.”...
U.S. deaths in Afghanistan spike in 2009 (click here)
By Jason Straziuso - The Associated Press
Posted : Sunday Mar 1, 2009 8:21:52 EST
KABUL — U.S. deaths in Afghanistan increased threefold during the first two months of 2009 compared with the same period last year, after thousands more troops deployed and commanders ramped up winter operations against an increasingly violent insurgency.
As troops pour into the country and violence rises, another sobering measure has also increased: More Afghan civilians are dying in U.S. and allied operations than at the hands of the Taliban, according to a count by The Associated Press. In the first two months of the year, U.S., NATO or Afghan forces have killed 100 civilians, while militants have killed 60....
NATO may ask China for support in Afghanistan (click here)
By Slobodan Lekic - The Associated PressPosted : Monday Mar 2, 2009 21:34:01 EST
BRUSSELS — NATO may ask China to provide support for the war effort in Afghanistan, including possibly opening a supply link for alliance forces, a senior U.S. official said Monday.
The subject is still under consideration and no decision has been reached on whether to approach Beijing, the official said on condition of anonymity given the sensitivity of the issue.
He spoke ahead of a meeting of NATO foreign ministers on Thursday in Brussels, which will include Hillary Rodham Clinton in her first European trip as U.S. secretary of state.
One way Beijing could help would be to open an alternate logistics route through western China into Afghanistan, the U.S. official said in Brussels.
China shares a 50-mile-long border with Afghanistan in the Wakhan Corridor, a thin sparsely populated strip of Afghan territory separating Pakistan and Tajikistan. The 2,000-year-old-caravan route — once used by Marco Polo — is now a dirt road that crosses some of the world’s most mountainous regions....
Bomber Strikes Outside Main US Base in Afghanistan (click here)
By VOA News 04 March 2009
U.S. military officials said several people were wounded in two near-simultaneous bomb blasts outside the main U.S. military base in Afghanistan.Wednesday's attack occurred at Bagram Air Base, about 60 kilometers north of the capital, Kabul. A U.S. military spokesman said a car bomb exploded, and moments later a suicide bomber on foot detonated explosives near the base's main gate. Details of the casualties were not immediately confirmed. In other violence, military officials said a roadside bomb killed three Canadian soldiers in southern Afghanistan's Kandahar province Tuesday.
AAFES employee enjoys time in Afghanistan (click here)
By John Andrew Prime - The (Shreveport, La.) Times
Posted : Sunday Mar 1, 2009 16:50:28 EST
SHREVEPORT, La. — While some folks in Afghanistan might seem to be looking for a way out, Darlene Downing thinks she might ask for permission to stay another year.
“I was originally supposed to come back (in February) but I extended, and if they’ll let me, I may extend again,” said Downing, 45, who volunteered to go to the war-torn nation to do there what she does here: Sell goods to troops as an associate of the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (click here)....
...“The whole time she was here she was always saying ‘Those AAFES people, they are so sweet.’ Well, somebody helped my baby, so I thought ‘Let me go and look after someone else’s baby.’ ”
She said she felt right at home where she first was deployed — at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan.
The troops “give you the same love you give them,” she said....
Power struggle over timing of Afghan election (click here)
Pamela Constable, Washington Post
Thursday, March 5, 2009
(03-05) 04:00 PST Kabul, Afghanistan -- A deepening power struggle over the date for upcoming presidential elections is exposing the ugly, destructive side of politics in Afghanistan and raising questions about the viability of a crucial transition for this struggling, Western-backed democracy.
The conflict pits President Hamid Karzai, who hopes to win re-election after seven years in power, against an array of rivals eager to see him dethroned at any cost, and against members of an independent election commission whose desire to postpone the polling is supported by the United States, the United Nations and NATO.
It also leaves unresolved the critical question of who will lead the country during the summer months, when the Islamist Taliban insurgency is expected to intensify its attacks and thousands of U.S. troops will arrive. Karzai's term ends in May, and elections are currently scheduled for August....
Murtha says Afghanistan plan lacks goal (click title to entry - Thank you)
By Kimberly Hefling
The Associated PressPosted : Tuesday Mar 3, 2009 21:21:17 EST
WASHINGTON — Rep. John Murtha said Tuesday the situation in Afghanistan is so challenging that he estimated it would take 600,000 troops to fully squelch violence in the country.
The Pennsylvania Democrat, who chairs the powerful subcommittee that funds the military, said his figure was based on the country’s history of rigorous fighting and its size.
“That’s what I estimate it would take in a country that size to get it under control,” Murtha said in an interview.
Murtha also said he’s uncomfortable with President Barack Obama’s decision to increase the number of troops in the country by 17,000 before a goal was clearly defined. But he says he anticipates a plan will be developed to train Afghan security forces, and then the U.S. military will get out. He said he sees Afghanistan has more of a diplomatic mission, than a military one.
“I think you’ll see a change,” Murtha said. “I’m confident you’re going to see them only adjusting for a short period of time with these additional troops.”...
U.S. deaths in Afghanistan spike in 2009 (click here)
By Jason Straziuso - The Associated Press
Posted : Sunday Mar 1, 2009 8:21:52 EST
KABUL — U.S. deaths in Afghanistan increased threefold during the first two months of 2009 compared with the same period last year, after thousands more troops deployed and commanders ramped up winter operations against an increasingly violent insurgency.
As troops pour into the country and violence rises, another sobering measure has also increased: More Afghan civilians are dying in U.S. and allied operations than at the hands of the Taliban, according to a count by The Associated Press. In the first two months of the year, U.S., NATO or Afghan forces have killed 100 civilians, while militants have killed 60....
NATO may ask China for support in Afghanistan (click here)
By Slobodan Lekic - The Associated PressPosted : Monday Mar 2, 2009 21:34:01 EST
BRUSSELS — NATO may ask China to provide support for the war effort in Afghanistan, including possibly opening a supply link for alliance forces, a senior U.S. official said Monday.
The subject is still under consideration and no decision has been reached on whether to approach Beijing, the official said on condition of anonymity given the sensitivity of the issue.
He spoke ahead of a meeting of NATO foreign ministers on Thursday in Brussels, which will include Hillary Rodham Clinton in her first European trip as U.S. secretary of state.
One way Beijing could help would be to open an alternate logistics route through western China into Afghanistan, the U.S. official said in Brussels.
China shares a 50-mile-long border with Afghanistan in the Wakhan Corridor, a thin sparsely populated strip of Afghan territory separating Pakistan and Tajikistan. The 2,000-year-old-caravan route — once used by Marco Polo — is now a dirt road that crosses some of the world’s most mountainous regions....
Bomber Strikes Outside Main US Base in Afghanistan (click here)
By VOA News 04 March 2009
U.S. military officials said several people were wounded in two near-simultaneous bomb blasts outside the main U.S. military base in Afghanistan.Wednesday's attack occurred at Bagram Air Base, about 60 kilometers north of the capital, Kabul. A U.S. military spokesman said a car bomb exploded, and moments later a suicide bomber on foot detonated explosives near the base's main gate. Details of the casualties were not immediately confirmed. In other violence, military officials said a roadside bomb killed three Canadian soldiers in southern Afghanistan's Kandahar province Tuesday.
AAFES employee enjoys time in Afghanistan (click here)
By John Andrew Prime - The (Shreveport, La.) Times
Posted : Sunday Mar 1, 2009 16:50:28 EST
SHREVEPORT, La. — While some folks in Afghanistan might seem to be looking for a way out, Darlene Downing thinks she might ask for permission to stay another year.
“I was originally supposed to come back (in February) but I extended, and if they’ll let me, I may extend again,” said Downing, 45, who volunteered to go to the war-torn nation to do there what she does here: Sell goods to troops as an associate of the Army and Air Force Exchange Service (click here)....
...“The whole time she was here she was always saying ‘Those AAFES people, they are so sweet.’ Well, somebody helped my baby, so I thought ‘Let me go and look after someone else’s baby.’ ”
She said she felt right at home where she first was deployed — at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan.
The troops “give you the same love you give them,” she said....
March 6, 2009
Attack on Sri Lankan cricketers (click here)
Clear security lapses 10 min-->
New footage shows gunmen making leisurely getaway
LAHORE (PAKISTAN): Pakistan yesterday faced new questions about its security forces after an official admitted to 'very vivid' lapses in the attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team on Tuesday, even as dramatic footage emerged of the gunmen making a leisurely getaway from the scene of their deadly assault.
The images of them walking off calmly, without police or security forces in pursuit, will add to the speculation swirling around the brazen daytime attack that left seven people dead.
Police have brought in around two dozen people for questioning, but say none is linked to the incident. No one has claimed responsibility for the assault, which also wounded 19 people.
Up to a dozen men on Tuesday attacked the convoy of umpires, coaches and players with automatic weapons, grenades and a rocket launcher as it made its way to the cricket ground in the city of Lahore. All the gunmen fled without a trace.
The new footage, captured by closed-circuit cameras, showed two suspects carrying rucksacks and ambling down the road, apparently untroubled after the carnage. They then jumped onto motorbikes and sped off....
The images of them walking off calmly, without police or security forces in pursuit, will add to the speculation swirling around the brazen daytime attack that left seven people dead.
Police have brought in around two dozen people for questioning, but say none is linked to the incident. No one has claimed responsibility for the assault, which also wounded 19 people.
Up to a dozen men on Tuesday attacked the convoy of umpires, coaches and players with automatic weapons, grenades and a rocket launcher as it made its way to the cricket ground in the city of Lahore. All the gunmen fled without a trace.
The new footage, captured by closed-circuit cameras, showed two suspects carrying rucksacks and ambling down the road, apparently untroubled after the carnage. They then jumped onto motorbikes and sped off....
It is the return of the Taliban.
It is my opinion that the Taliban now conducting Sharia Law in Pakistan aren't interested in the 'definition' of peace that The West applies to it. Hence, the 'rise' of Sharia Law in this region masks the underlying 'understanding' to the 'peace deal' by those spreading the word and practicing Sharia Law.
I believe, the 'acceptance' of Sharia Law by Pakistan for this region 'gives permission' to the 'unwritten right' for the Taliban to assume authority to defend its people and land, regardless of the policies of Pakistan.
In other words, this is simply waving a 'white flag' to the Taliban to sequester them into a region they can call their own of which they won't 'venture' from into Pakistan, but, says nothing about expanding their influence in Afghanistan. Basically, what is resulting in Pakistan is a 'No Go Zone' for the Taliban to call home.
This 'allowance' of violence 'migration' into Afghanistan in exchange for 'an understanding' in Pakistan to provide 'peaceful coexitence' will definately escalate the war and provide a venue to defend lands occupied by al Qaeda. The 'cricket attacks' were more than likely conducted by al Qaeda as the 'use of motor bikes' is a classic escape for them. Find the terrorists that carried out the attacks and it might be the same place bin Laden calls home.
The 'occupation' of the tribal areas by the Taliban and al Qaede under the guise of 'peaceful coexistence' will ultimately lead to expansion as the population grows and the government becomes more competent in organizing attacks like those against the Sri Lanken Cricket Team as a show of strength.
Pakistan is an issue and has been. It is a grossly chaotic country that allows terrorists a haven, willingly or not.
Islamic Sharia law expands in northwest Pakistan (click here)
Pakistani officials agree to 17 steps as part of a peace deal with extremists in the Swat Valley, alarming rights groups and others. Also, a bomb explodes at a Sufi mausoleum in Peshawar.
By Mark Magnier 12:30 PM PST, March 5, 2009
Reporting from Lahore, Pakistan -- In an apparent expansion of Islamic fundamentalists' authority in the picturesque Swat Valley, local Pakistani officials have agreed to close shops at prayer times and crack down on prostitution and drug dealing as part of a proposed peace deal, according to local media reports Thursday....
Charles “Chas” Freeman. Too many conflicts of interest. He is NOT appropriate for the position. Who brought him forward anyway?
"The Washington Post" hasn't got the focus entirely correct, but, they bravely went where no one else did and I applaud them for it. They are correct that Charles Freeman is not the man for the job, but, there are a lot of issues with 'conflict of interest' as well as being far too much the passivist to be worthwhile in any area of USA Intelligence.
"Danger Will Robinson, Danger"
Without belaying the facts and overtures, there is a simple premise that over shadows any placement of Freeman into the delicate position of National Intelligence. He simply has too many interests in too many places. President Obama needs to redraw the line of what qualifies someone that is loyal to the USA 'without' conflicting interests in sensitive places. Mr. Freeman knows a lot and his insight would be instantaneous, however, it is tainted by 'philosophy' and 'passivism.' Freeman has a documented history of passivism and while that can be an asset 'when known and in perspective / on balance' on the diplomatic and 'business' front (especially business) it is a huge deficit to a complete picture to the security of our nation and that of our allies.
"Danger Will Robinson, Danger"
Without belaying the facts and overtures, there is a simple premise that over shadows any placement of Freeman into the delicate position of National Intelligence. He simply has too many interests in too many places. President Obama needs to redraw the line of what qualifies someone that is loyal to the USA 'without' conflicting interests in sensitive places. Mr. Freeman knows a lot and his insight would be instantaneous, however, it is tainted by 'philosophy' and 'passivism.' Freeman has a documented history of passivism and while that can be an asset 'when known and in perspective / on balance' on the diplomatic and 'business' front (especially business) it is a huge deficit to a complete picture to the security of our nation and that of our allies.
Mr. Freeman 'leans' far too much into 'business/profit oriented' dynamics and would definately have diminished urgency to areas that could lead to unexpected conflict, human rights abuse and valuing money over effective policy. Not a good idea. Not in the world 2009.
...The Obama administration has named Charles “Chas” Freeman (click here) as chairman of the National Intelligence Council, the organization responsible for compiling intelligence from 16 different government agencies to produce National Intelligence Estimates....
Obama's Intelligence Blunder (click here)
By Jon ChaitSaturday, February 28, 2009; Page A13
Most of President Obama's "missteps" to date have been Washington peccadilloes of the "let's find something to complain about" sort. But Obama has made one major mistake that has attracted little public attention:...
..."I do not believe it is acceptable for any country to allow the heart of its national capital to be occupied by dissidents intent on disrupting the normal functions of government, however appealing to foreigners their propaganda may be. Such folk, whether they represent a veterans' 'Bonus Army' or a 'student uprising' on behalf of 'the goddess of democracy' should expect to be displaced with despatch [sic] from the ground they occupy."...
I really want to know what prompted this nomination. I really want to know. He is 'positioned' to disenfranchise any issue with China and/or Iran. He is the "W"rong man for the job. Mr. Freeman is smart enough, however, he does not and cannot carry out 'objective' analysis. Whatever happened to old CIA agents like Johnson or better yet, Wilson or Plame for some of these positions?
Obama intel chief violating Iran sanctions? Board member of Chinese government-owned company in deal with Tehran (click here)
Posted: March 04, 20094:06 pm Eastern
By Aaron Klein© 2009
WorldNetDaily
President Obama's nominee for a top intelligence post sits on the board of a major oil company owned by the Chinese government that is in the midst of a multibillion dollar deal with Iran which may violate U.S. sanctions, WND has learned....
He 'gets it.' Absolutely. But. The concept of viability seems to elude a commitment to honest assessment.
Americans have always had a love affair with their cars, but, do we have the same affection for the automaker? When does the carnage stop?
It is alarming to realize the degree at which these institutions took risk. It is pervasive. Banks, manuafacturers.
What are the equity people doing these days?
Oil money behind consortium's bid for Anglo (click here)
By Joe Brennan
Saturday February 28 2009
OIL-RICH funds, owned by the Qatar and Dubai royal families, are understood to be major backers of the investment group that once chased Bank of Ireland -- but is now looking to win control of nationalised Anglo Irish Bank.
The so-called Mallabraca consortium was assembled late last year by Irish financiers Nick Corcoran and Nigel McDermott of Cardinal Asset Management and Bryan Turley of Sorrento Asset Management.
The group, also comprised of two major US private equity firms, Carlyle and JC Flowers, is looking to invest €5bn in Anglo to boost its reserves against a tide of losses on bad loans....
Carlyle raises $533 million second mezzanine fund – CMP II (click here)
...With strong support from its current LP base – including insurance companies, state pension plans, university bequests and high net-worth individuals – CMP II will pony up between $15 million and $50 million per deal. The essentially US-focused fund can also spend up to 25 percent of the fund outside the US, on an opportunistic basis.
The practically global Carlyle Group, with $91.5 billion of assets, was steadfast with 66 diverse-sector funds leveraged across six continents, in 2008. Since 1987, Carlyle has invested $52.7 billion of equity in 866 transactions for a nearly $225.8 billion total purchase price....
continued...
Rick Wagoner, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of General Motors Corporation, stands for the singing of the national anthem before announcing GM will invest more than $500 million to build the Chevy Cruze, an all-new global compact car, at its Lordstown Complex August 21, 2008 in Warren, Ohio. The Cruze will be officially unveiled at the upcoming Paris Motor Show.
(Photo by Bill Pugliano/Getty Images North America)
GM Lordstown plant to drop to one shift in April (click here)
Posted by Robert Schoenberger/Plain Dealer Reporter
January 26, 2009 11:15AM
UPDATED at 6 p.m.
CLEVELAND — General Motors Corp. will end production of its evening shift in Lordstown in April, costing 800 workers their jobs. It's part of a larger set of cuts that will end 2,000 jobs in Ohio and Michigan.
With sales of the fuel-efficient cars built there down sharply over the past four months, union leaders and workers said they weren't surprised by the shift loss at Lordstown. After the shift loss in April, the plant will have about 2,000 workers, down from nearly 4,000 last summer....
GM CEO's 2008 compensation valued at $14.9 million (click here)
5 Mar 2009, 2214 hrs IST, AGENCIES
DETROIT: General Motors Corp. says it gave Chief Executive Rick Wagoner compensation valued at $14.9 million last year for leading a company that
lost $30.9 billion and is running on government loans. But a large part of his pay package is in stock and options that have dropped in value from $11.9 million when they were granted in March of last year to just over $682,000 currently. The troubled automaker disclosed the amounts in its annual report filed Thursday with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Wagoner has agreed to accept a salary of $1 this year as part of the company's restructuring plan. Many of his stock options are now worthless since the company's shares have plummeted below $2.
GM says auditors report won't affect restructuring (click here)
March 05, 2009 14:59 EST
DETROIT (AP) -- Analysts differ on whether concerns raised by General Motors' auditors show the automaker is heading toward bankruptcy.In a filing today, the company auditors reveal "substantial doubt" about GM's ability to continue operations in the face of recurring losses. They say the company may need to seek bankruptcy protection if it can't complete a huge restructuring plan.One bankruptcy expert says the GM auditors' comments suggest a company that would "very likely" be heading for bankruptcy.But another says the auditors are just saying what the world has known for months -- that GM is in serious financial trouble.
GM yet to approach UK for aid (click here)
The Associated Press
Published: March 5, 2009
...Chick said GM would not be putting a proposal until it completes negotiations with the German government on the company's proposed rescue plan, which calls on governments to put up €3.3 billion. Germany was approached first because that's the location of most of GM's European operations, Chick said....
It is alarming to realize the degree at which these institutions took risk. It is pervasive. Banks, manuafacturers.
What are the equity people doing these days?
Oil money behind consortium's bid for Anglo (click here)
By Joe Brennan
Saturday February 28 2009
OIL-RICH funds, owned by the Qatar and Dubai royal families, are understood to be major backers of the investment group that once chased Bank of Ireland -- but is now looking to win control of nationalised Anglo Irish Bank.
The so-called Mallabraca consortium was assembled late last year by Irish financiers Nick Corcoran and Nigel McDermott of Cardinal Asset Management and Bryan Turley of Sorrento Asset Management.
The group, also comprised of two major US private equity firms, Carlyle and JC Flowers, is looking to invest €5bn in Anglo to boost its reserves against a tide of losses on bad loans....
Carlyle raises $533 million second mezzanine fund – CMP II (click here)
...With strong support from its current LP base – including insurance companies, state pension plans, university bequests and high net-worth individuals – CMP II will pony up between $15 million and $50 million per deal. The essentially US-focused fund can also spend up to 25 percent of the fund outside the US, on an opportunistic basis.
The practically global Carlyle Group, with $91.5 billion of assets, was steadfast with 66 diverse-sector funds leveraged across six continents, in 2008. Since 1987, Carlyle has invested $52.7 billion of equity in 866 transactions for a nearly $225.8 billion total purchase price....
continued...
Rick Wagoner, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of General Motors Corporation, stands for the singing of the national anthem before announcing GM will invest more than $500 million to build the Chevy Cruze, an all-new global compact car, at its Lordstown Complex August 21, 2008 in Warren, Ohio. The Cruze will be officially unveiled at the upcoming Paris Motor Show.
(Photo by Bill Pugliano/Getty Images North America)
GM Lordstown plant to drop to one shift in April (click here)
Posted by Robert Schoenberger/Plain Dealer Reporter
January 26, 2009 11:15AM
UPDATED at 6 p.m.
CLEVELAND — General Motors Corp. will end production of its evening shift in Lordstown in April, costing 800 workers their jobs. It's part of a larger set of cuts that will end 2,000 jobs in Ohio and Michigan.
With sales of the fuel-efficient cars built there down sharply over the past four months, union leaders and workers said they weren't surprised by the shift loss at Lordstown. After the shift loss in April, the plant will have about 2,000 workers, down from nearly 4,000 last summer....
GM CEO's 2008 compensation valued at $14.9 million (click here)
5 Mar 2009, 2214 hrs IST, AGENCIES
DETROIT: General Motors Corp. says it gave Chief Executive Rick Wagoner compensation valued at $14.9 million last year for leading a company that
lost $30.9 billion and is running on government loans. But a large part of his pay package is in stock and options that have dropped in value from $11.9 million when they were granted in March of last year to just over $682,000 currently. The troubled automaker disclosed the amounts in its annual report filed Thursday with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Wagoner has agreed to accept a salary of $1 this year as part of the company's restructuring plan. Many of his stock options are now worthless since the company's shares have plummeted below $2.
GM says auditors report won't affect restructuring (click here)
March 05, 2009 14:59 EST
DETROIT (AP) -- Analysts differ on whether concerns raised by General Motors' auditors show the automaker is heading toward bankruptcy.In a filing today, the company auditors reveal "substantial doubt" about GM's ability to continue operations in the face of recurring losses. They say the company may need to seek bankruptcy protection if it can't complete a huge restructuring plan.One bankruptcy expert says the GM auditors' comments suggest a company that would "very likely" be heading for bankruptcy.But another says the auditors are just saying what the world has known for months -- that GM is in serious financial trouble.
GM yet to approach UK for aid (click here)
The Associated Press
Published: March 5, 2009
...Chick said GM would not be putting a proposal until it completes negotiations with the German government on the company's proposed rescue plan, which calls on governments to put up €3.3 billion. Germany was approached first because that's the location of most of GM's European operations, Chick said....
In case you missed it, that British fellow was here.
"...an America renewed under a new President...an inspiration..."
I believe that is true. Europe is 'taken' by the ability of the USA to reclaim itself. I do believe our European allies sincerely are 'aahed' by our democracy. I do believe Prime Minister Brown genuinely expressed sincere relief and appreciation to the people of the USA. He was moved to come as early as he did to meet with President Obama, speak to us and extend insight to his perspective. He was sincerely proud to be here. It was very nice, decent and a bit eye-opening to realize how much our President meant to him and the hope for his country as well.
Interesting.
You know. It was almost as though he came without an invite or introduction, isn't it? Prime Minister Brown simply had to come. I recognize the connectedness. Oddly wonderful. No 'proper' measure could contain him. That level of 'need to be here' is not measurable. It is, however, moving to realize we mean that much to them.
I don't believe it is about money. It is about love of country and dedication to our quality of life with mutual struggles. I am confident he is relieved as well that Secretary Gates in back in Afghanistan in numbers that are fueling 'exposure' to the 'terrorist tinder' that was covert.
Friends in all that matters. Re-employment. Homes. The devastation of Global Warming. He's right, we are allies, friends and hold each other in dynamics of freedom. It can't be replaced and he is right to point out that isolation could be dangerous. It will come around.
Kennedy to get honorary knighthood (click here)
Washington Post
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Washington —- Sen. Edward Kennedy (D-Mass.) will receive an honorary knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II, British Prime Minister Gordon Brown announced during his address to a joint session of Congress on Wednesday.
Brown praised Kennedy’s role in bringing peace to Northern Ireland after generations of civil strife, and his decades of work to strengthen health care and education opportunities around the globe.
Kennedy, 77, is battling brain cancer and was not in the House chamber for Brown’s speech. Brown said the two spoke by phone Tuesday night.
According to Buckingham Palace, fewer than 100 U.S. citizens have received honorary knighthoods since the queen took the throne in 1952. Last month, the British Embassy announced that former senator John Warner (R-Va.) would be similarly honored.
Because the knighthood is honorary, Kennedy will not be able to officially use the title “Sir,” according to a spokesman for Britain’s Cabinet Office.
Unhappy with love, it could make you ill. It comes down to stress, emotional stress. Heartache not allowed !
"Until death us do part" takes on an entirely new meaning. We are familiar with 'Type A' and 'Type B' personalities in men that lead to heart attack, but, when it comes to 'long term' emotional stress it is women that have the greatest risk. Are women too stoic due to cultural oppression and conflicting values of family vs. self?
Bad Marriages Harder on Women's Health (click title to entry - thank you)
More likely than mates to show signs of metabolic syndrome in strained unions, study finds
Posted March 5, 2009
By Kathleen Doheny
Health Day Reporter
'...While both men and women in "strained" unions, those marked by arguing and being angry, were more likely to feel depressed than happier partners, the women in the contentious relationships were more likely to develop high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood sugar and other markers of what's known as "metabolic syndrome," said study author Nancy Henry, a doctoral candidate in clinical healthy psychology at the University of Utah.
Metabolic syndrome is known to boost the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.... '
Now, add to the list, depression.
Bad Marriages Harder on Women's Health (click title to entry - thank you)
More likely than mates to show signs of metabolic syndrome in strained unions, study finds
Posted March 5, 2009
By Kathleen Doheny
Health Day Reporter
'...While both men and women in "strained" unions, those marked by arguing and being angry, were more likely to feel depressed than happier partners, the women in the contentious relationships were more likely to develop high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood sugar and other markers of what's known as "metabolic syndrome," said study author Nancy Henry, a doctoral candidate in clinical healthy psychology at the University of Utah.
Metabolic syndrome is known to boost the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.... '
Now, add to the list, depression.
Scientists identify key factor in the cause of metabolic syndrome (click here)
Submitted by Mohit Joshi on Wed, 02/06/2008
...Metabolic syndrome is a collection of medical problems related to insulin resistance, including obesity, glucose intolerance, hypertension, lowered HDL (“good”) cholesterol and elevated triglycerides. Together these are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis, the build-up of plaque in the coronary arteries that leads to heart attack and stroke....
Submitted by Mohit Joshi on Wed, 02/06/2008
...Metabolic syndrome is a collection of medical problems related to insulin resistance, including obesity, glucose intolerance, hypertension, lowered HDL (“good”) cholesterol and elevated triglycerides. Together these are associated with an increased risk of atherosclerosis, the build-up of plaque in the coronary arteries that leads to heart attack and stroke....
Among all her other duties, Secretary Clinton is going to transform childrens' reality.
At nearly every stop in her 'introductory' tour she is met with children and their impressions of the USA. I can't think of a better person to 'heal the wounds' of the children diseffected. Sometimes. "It takes a village." Go get 'em, Hillary !
Afghanistan, US-Russia Relations to Top Clinton Talks With North Atlantic Council (click here)
By Sonja Pace Brussels
However, stability at what cost? The blood shed in the years past was considerable, but, extremism should be frowned on by Russia. Keeping order in Chechnya is at best difficult and life for the people there is better than 'anarchic death,' however, Russia has proven that they saved South Ossetia from genocide, certainly they don't want human rights abuses on their record now. Moscow, at the very least, should demand an investigation into this report.
U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton talks with Palestinian students at the English Access Microscholarship program in the West Bank city of Ramallah on March 4, 2009. The U.S. State Department has been funding the two-year program for disadvantaged Palestinian youth for the past five years. (UPI Photo/David Furst/Pool)
Last updated March 4, 2009 10:01 p.m. PT
ASSOCIATED PRESS WRITER
...NATO foreign ministers meeting Thursday appeared likely to decide the time is right. Such a move could boost President Barack Obama's efforts to build a stronger bond with the Russians after years of tensions during the Bush administration....
Russia was once supportive our USA efforts in Afghanistan. NATO currently has disproportionate numbers in the members participating in Afghanistan. Russia has its own issues in the Caucasus Region and no one knows what Prime Minister Putin would say to be invited in support of NATO. Vladimir Putin has been a long time critic of NATO and its growing number of 'force' in the region. This might be the opportunity he has waited for in bringing Russia's interest to the table.
Afghanistan, US-Russia Relations to Top Clinton Talks With North Atlantic Council (click here)
By Sonja Pace Brussels
04 March 2009
U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is in Brussels where she will attend a ministerial meeting of the North Atlantic Council, NATO's political and decision-making body Thursday. Afghanistan and relations with Russia are expected to figure prominently in the discussions....
I am confident Prime Minister Putin would consider 'stability' paramount to any elections.
The Guardian, Monday 23 February 2009
...The Kremlin now claims that the war is over and that there is peace and stability in the region. The reality is that the intensive bombings have been replaced with a regime of fear and oppression which has eroded civil society in Chechnya and suppressed any open and democratic voice. Visits are carefully choreographed for western journalists and dignitaries. They do not see the daily realities of Moscow-imposed Ramzan Kadyrov's rule.
The facade of stability is dangerous. The only way to establish lasting peace in Chechnya is through free and fair elections, which last took place over 10 years ago. On this World Chechnya Day, we urge President Medvedev to find a genuine political settlement that will finally put an end to an entire people's suffering.
The facade of stability is dangerous. The only way to establish lasting peace in Chechnya is through free and fair elections, which last took place over 10 years ago. On this World Chechnya Day, we urge President Medvedev to find a genuine political settlement that will finally put an end to an entire people's suffering.
However, stability at what cost? The blood shed in the years past was considerable, but, extremism should be frowned on by Russia. Keeping order in Chechnya is at best difficult and life for the people there is better than 'anarchic death,' however, Russia has proven that they saved South Ossetia from genocide, certainly they don't want human rights abuses on their record now. Moscow, at the very least, should demand an investigation into this report.
By LYNN BERRY – 4 days ago
...With money from Moscow, Chechen President Ramzan Kadyrov is rebuilding Grozny at a frenetic pace. Some in Russia say Kadyrov's attempt to create an Islamic society violates the Russian constitution, which guarantees equal rights for women and a separation of church and state. But the Kremlin has given him its staunch backing, seeing him as the key to keeping the separatists in check, and that has allowed him to impose his will....
...The 32-year-old former militia leader is carrying out a campaign to impose Islamic values and strengthen the traditional customs of predominantly Muslim Chechnya, in an effort to blunt the appeal of hardline Islamic separatists and shore up his power. In doing so, critics say, he is setting up a dictatorship where Russian laws do not apply.
Some in Russia say Kadyrov's attempt to create an Islamic society violates the Russian constitution, which guarantees equal rights for women and a separation of church and state. But the Kremlin has given him its staunch backing, seeing him as the key to keeping the separatists in check, and that has allowed him to impose his will....
Some in Russia say Kadyrov's attempt to create an Islamic society violates the Russian constitution, which guarantees equal rights for women and a separation of church and state. But the Kremlin has given him its staunch backing, seeing him as the key to keeping the separatists in check, and that has allowed him to impose his will....
If South Ossetia is welcoming interests for trade to their country, the USA should quickly get in line.
South Ossetia economy open to all - president (click here)
04.03.2009, 06.43
...Answering the newspaper's question how the funds on rebuilding South Ossetia are spent at present, Kokoity said large-scale construction in the republic would begin in the spring.
It will take five to ten years to build a town for 70,000 residents from scratch. Tskhinval's infrastructure has been fully demolished.
"After the strikes by Grad salvo systems we were unable to quickly rebuild in the winter 606 fully destroyed houses in Tskhinval, and more than 1,000 houses in rural areas.
"Another 3,000 residential buildings were partially destroyed.
"We'll take under state control the logging of beeches, oaks, and chestnuts. Agriculture and wine-making have good prospects, while mountain skiing and environmental tourism might prove to in demand in a more distant future.
"Of course, we see Russian businesses as main partners, although our economy will be open to all. South Ossetia has a sufficient basis of state and economic potential to become an independent and successful state," he said....
Sudan ruling: Darfur at a glance
Sudanese President Omar Hassan Ahmed Bashir
...The military forces Joint U.N.-African Union peacekeeping mission (click title to entry - thank you): The 15,000-member contingent, which by November is expected to grow to 26,000, remains underequipped and has been attacked by warring factions.
Sudanese armed forces: Believed to number more than 100,000.
SLA and JEM: Their combined forces number about 10,000, according to Jane's Information Group. The International Crisis Group puts the figure at 7,000 to 15,000, though some estimates put it much lower, about 1,200 to 2,000.
Janjaweed: Peaked at about 10,000, but figures fluctuate.
The ICC The International Criminal Court is the world's first permanent war crimes tribunal, coming into force in 2002 and headquartered in The Hague. It is an independent body, not a U.N. court. The ICC acts only when member countries are "unwilling or unable" to dispense justice themselves. It may prosecute individuals responsible for genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes committed after July 2002.
Sudan: International Court Issues Bashir Arrest Warrant (click here)
4 March 2009
...However, two of three judges on the court panel which issued the warrant declined on the evidence currently before them to press charges of genocide. It said the prosecution had failed to provide reasonable grounds for believing that the Sudanese government had the specific intent to destroy three ethnic groups in Darfur....
Let's get this right. Iraq is no longer the COLONY of the USA. They will split and there isn't any way that should be 'warred' upon !
There is NO REASON the Kurds cannot be self governing !!!!!!!!
No recidivism on Iraq.
Kurds Seize Iraq Land Past Borders in Blow to U.S. Pullout Plan (click title to entry - thank you)
By Daniel Williams
March 5 (Bloomberg) -- Just north of Mosul, Iraq’s second- biggest city, an ornamental metal gate spans the highway. Beyond it, the sunburst-on-tricolors of the Kurdistan flag proliferate in this region 20 miles (32 kilometers) south of the Kurds’ agreed-to autonomous zone in the country’s far northeast.
Neither Iraqi police nor soldiers venture beyond the gate....
By PAULINE JELINEK – 10 hours ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — The number of U.S. troops who have suffered wartime brain injuries may be as high as 360,000 and could cast more attention on such injuries among civilians, Defense Department doctors said Wednesday.
The estimate of the number injured — the vast majority of them suffering concussions — represents 20 percent of the roughly 1.8 million men and women who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, where blast injuries are common from roadside bombs and other explosives, the doctors said.
The estimate came in a Pentagon news conference on activities planned this month to bring attention to brain injuries. The doctors said the number could be as low as 180,000, based on estimates that between 10 percent and 20 percent of troops might have received such injuries.
The previous high estimate offered publicly was 320,000 in a study released a year ago by the private Rand Corp. It was based on about 1.6 million who had done tours of duty in the wars from late 2001....
General Assembly President Miguel d'Escoto Brockmann
Crises threaten attainment of rights by world’s poorest – Assembly President (click here)
...General Assembly President Miguel d'Escoto Brockmann4 March 2009 – The twin economic and financial crises threatens poorer nations’ ability to attain basic human rights, such as the right to food and access to water and sanitation, the head of the General Assembly declared today.
“Developing countries suffer the most” from the economic turmoil, Miguel D’Escoto told the United Nations Human Rights Council today in Geneva.
“It would be profoundly unjust to expect them to postpone the realization of basic rights,” he added.
The 63rd session of the Assembly has endeavoured to ensure that the poorest nations do not bear the largest brunt of a crisis for which they are not responsible, the body’s President said....
Who is looking for justice, besides me? No backing down ! None ! I promise you, it is OVER for The Republican Party in the USA. They might have a safe haven in China, so the Rights Council might have to ask the cooperation of other countries in their search for justice.
Rights Council urged to investigate massive violations in Iraq (click here)
Source: United Nations Radio
Date: 04 Mar 2009
Listen to the News
UN General Assembly President, Miguel D'Escoto Brockmann on Wednesday urged the Human Rights Council to investigate "massive human rights violations" in Iraq.
The Nicaraguan diplomat describes Iraq as "a contemporary and on-going example of how the illegal use of force leads inexorably to human suffering and disregard for human rights."
He says "it sets a number of precedents that we cannot allow to stand."...
No recidivism on Iraq.
Kurds Seize Iraq Land Past Borders in Blow to U.S. Pullout Plan (click title to entry - thank you)
By Daniel Williams
March 5 (Bloomberg) -- Just north of Mosul, Iraq’s second- biggest city, an ornamental metal gate spans the highway. Beyond it, the sunburst-on-tricolors of the Kurdistan flag proliferate in this region 20 miles (32 kilometers) south of the Kurds’ agreed-to autonomous zone in the country’s far northeast.
Neither Iraqi police nor soldiers venture beyond the gate....
We don't belong in Iraq.
We never did.
Wartime troop brain injures could reach 360,000 (click here)By PAULINE JELINEK – 10 hours ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — The number of U.S. troops who have suffered wartime brain injuries may be as high as 360,000 and could cast more attention on such injuries among civilians, Defense Department doctors said Wednesday.
The estimate of the number injured — the vast majority of them suffering concussions — represents 20 percent of the roughly 1.8 million men and women who have served in Iraq and Afghanistan, where blast injuries are common from roadside bombs and other explosives, the doctors said.
The estimate came in a Pentagon news conference on activities planned this month to bring attention to brain injuries. The doctors said the number could be as low as 180,000, based on estimates that between 10 percent and 20 percent of troops might have received such injuries.
The previous high estimate offered publicly was 320,000 in a study released a year ago by the private Rand Corp. It was based on about 1.6 million who had done tours of duty in the wars from late 2001....
General Assembly President Miguel d'Escoto Brockmann
Crises threaten attainment of rights by world’s poorest – Assembly President (click here)
...General Assembly President Miguel d'Escoto Brockmann4 March 2009 – The twin economic and financial crises threatens poorer nations’ ability to attain basic human rights, such as the right to food and access to water and sanitation, the head of the General Assembly declared today.
“Developing countries suffer the most” from the economic turmoil, Miguel D’Escoto told the United Nations Human Rights Council today in Geneva.
“It would be profoundly unjust to expect them to postpone the realization of basic rights,” he added.
The 63rd session of the Assembly has endeavoured to ensure that the poorest nations do not bear the largest brunt of a crisis for which they are not responsible, the body’s President said....
Who is looking for justice, besides me? No backing down ! None ! I promise you, it is OVER for The Republican Party in the USA. They might have a safe haven in China, so the Rights Council might have to ask the cooperation of other countries in their search for justice.
Rights Council urged to investigate massive violations in Iraq (click here)
Source: United Nations Radio
Date: 04 Mar 2009
Listen to the News
UN General Assembly President, Miguel D'Escoto Brockmann on Wednesday urged the Human Rights Council to investigate "massive human rights violations" in Iraq.
The Nicaraguan diplomat describes Iraq as "a contemporary and on-going example of how the illegal use of force leads inexorably to human suffering and disregard for human rights."
He says "it sets a number of precedents that we cannot allow to stand."...
The new Secretary of the Treasury did quite well yesterday in testimony.
I have not been a fan of Secretary Geithner. I am still not a supporter as I do not believe any more 'bank bailout' is necessary, however, I witnessed a man yesterday dedicated to his President and the agenda he was elected to uphold.
He was welcomed yesterday, not in voices of praise, but by those on the Committee that asked on several occassions whether he would be available for consultation at a future time. With every request for his time, Secretary Geithner answered without hesitation, "Yes." Simply, "Yes." No reservations and willing to 'be the person' every member of the committee could turn to for answers to tough questions.
I believe he is on the way of 'proving' himself a worthy person to our Treasury Secretary. If he works this hard at upholding his point of view with optimism I believe the country DESERVES, as Americans are the best work force in the world, he will be an indescribable 'force' and 'friend' to the people of this country. It could be this Goldman-Sachs homeboy might actually have had the desire to 'come home' to us rather than 'go to China.'
I look forward to 'good news' in the future as he builds concensus in Congress. I wish him well and much success in his 'council' to those that will support his budget and the sovereign fiscal well being of our country
...Rebutting Republican charges that the plan would raise taxes on a broad swath of Americans, White House budget director Peter R. Orszag and Treasury Secretary Timothy F. Geithner said the tax increases -- aimed primarily at business and a few million families who earn more than $250,000 a year -- are essential to reducing record budget deficits bloated by financial-sector bailouts and federal spending to prop up the economy....
He was welcomed yesterday, not in voices of praise, but by those on the Committee that asked on several occassions whether he would be available for consultation at a future time. With every request for his time, Secretary Geithner answered without hesitation, "Yes." Simply, "Yes." No reservations and willing to 'be the person' every member of the committee could turn to for answers to tough questions.
I believe he is on the way of 'proving' himself a worthy person to our Treasury Secretary. If he works this hard at upholding his point of view with optimism I believe the country DESERVES, as Americans are the best work force in the world, he will be an indescribable 'force' and 'friend' to the people of this country. It could be this Goldman-Sachs homeboy might actually have had the desire to 'come home' to us rather than 'go to China.'
I look forward to 'good news' in the future as he builds concensus in Congress. I wish him well and much success in his 'council' to those that will support his budget and the sovereign fiscal well being of our country
...Rebutting Republican charges that the plan would raise taxes on a broad swath of Americans, White House budget director Peter R. Orszag and Treasury Secretary Timothy F. Geithner said the tax increases -- aimed primarily at business and a few million families who earn more than $250,000 a year -- are essential to reducing record budget deficits bloated by financial-sector bailouts and federal spending to prop up the economy....
Barack Obama's overall job approval rating is at 60% as he finishes his first month in office.
The American Research Group doesn't get the highest ratings in the media, but, I still find it interesting as it is a 'household' survey. This administration is seeking to give dignity back to the 'idea' that Americans actually want good paying jobs. This administration is well invested in proving an economic opportunity to The Middle Class while providing the opportunity for them to actually be healthy.
...Overall, 55% of Americans say that they approve of the way Barack Obama is handling the economy, 39% disapprove, and 6% are undecided. Among registered voters, 52% approve and 41% disapprove of the way Obama is handling the economy....
...Overall, 55% of Americans say that they approve of the way Barack Obama is handling the economy, 39% disapprove, and 6% are undecided. Among registered voters, 52% approve and 41% disapprove of the way Obama is handling the economy....
The 2010 budget
(Getty Images photo by Win McNamee / February 26, 2009)
Copies of the Obama administration's 2010 budget go on sale at the Government Printing Office February 26, 2009 in Washington, D.C. The budget forecasts a deficit of $1.75 trillion for the current fiscal year and also aims to cut the deficit in half by the end of Obama's four year term.
This budget is honest. The truth hurts. As Harry Truman stated, “I never give them hell. I just tell the truth and they think it’s hell.”
The truth is that The Bush White House attempted to 'hijack' the country by placing it in irretrievable debt. In other words, then President-Elect Obama was to appear to be a fool. He was to be shackled by The Bush Strategy to 'undo' once again the power of The Vote.
President Obama, with this budget, harnessed 'the truth' of past Republican abuses and also included 'the promises' of his campaign to those whom elected him. We are going to be fine.
Why?
Because The American People now have the power to retrieve their country from any brink of disaster.
...Overall, 55% of Americans say that they approve of the way Barack Obama is handling the economy, 39% disapprove, and 6% are undecided. Among registered voters, 52% approve and 41% disapprove of the way Obama is handling the economy....
...Overall, 55% of Americans say that they approve of the way Barack Obama is handling the economy, 39% disapprove, and 6% are undecided. Among registered voters, 52% approve and 41% disapprove of the way Obama is handling the economy....
The 2010 budget
(Getty Images photo by Win McNamee / February 26, 2009)
Copies of the Obama administration's 2010 budget go on sale at the Government Printing Office February 26, 2009 in Washington, D.C. The budget forecasts a deficit of $1.75 trillion for the current fiscal year and also aims to cut the deficit in half by the end of Obama's four year term.
This budget is honest. The truth hurts. As Harry Truman stated, “I never give them hell. I just tell the truth and they think it’s hell.”
The truth is that The Bush White House attempted to 'hijack' the country by placing it in irretrievable debt. In other words, then President-Elect Obama was to appear to be a fool. He was to be shackled by The Bush Strategy to 'undo' once again the power of The Vote.
President Obama, with this budget, harnessed 'the truth' of past Republican abuses and also included 'the promises' of his campaign to those whom elected him. We are going to be fine.
Why?
Because The American People now have the power to retrieve their country from any brink of disaster.
The Party that rocked the world, now rocks The White House.
President and First Lady(AP photo by Haraz N. Ghanbari / February 22, 2009)
President Barack Obama joined by First Lady Michelle Obama head toward the East Room of the White House for entertainment following a dinner with the nation's governors in the State Dining Room.
...“From the very beginning, she has made servicewomen and their welfare a priority on which she is focusing,” Vaught said of Obama. “In doing this, she is following in the footsteps of first lady Eleanor Roosevelt’s WWII fame.”...
Obama hosts congressional leaders for dinner (click here)
By PHILIP ELLIOTT – 3 hours ago
WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama said he wants Democrats and Republicans to realize they share many interests, an appeal for cooperation as congressional leaders sat down together to dine Wednesday evening at the White House.
Obama welcomed the Democratic chairmen of congressional committees and the ranking Republicans on those committees, along with their spouses, to a packed East Room for dinner. About 200 people joined Obama, Vice President Joe Biden and their wives for the latest efffort in the administration's charm offensive, coming in the midst of congressional consideration of a $410 billion spending bill and future debate over Obama's $3.6 trillion budget proposal for the next year.
Obama, whose economic stimulus plan passed with only three Republican votes in the Senate, acknowledged it was not going to be an easy road.
"We are go to have some monumental debates taking place over the next several months and years," Obama said during his brief welcome.
"We also know that we're not always going to agree on everything, but given how hard so many of you are working on both sides of the aisle — day in, day out — we thought it was important for us to step back for a moment, remind ourselves that we have things in common — family, friends, laughter — and hopefully we'll have a chance to appreciate each other a little bit, take a time-out before we dive back into the game."...
Homeschool Discrimination Fixed in Byrd Scholarship
Robert Byrd
(AP photo by Susan Walsh / February 26, 2009)
Sen. Robert Byrd (D-W.V.), seated in a wheelchair, arrives on Capitol Hill in Washington on Thursday.
...The scholarship provides stipends of up to $6,000 over four years to high school graduates who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement and who have been accepted for enrollment at a college or university.
The problem, however, had been that when the Byrd Scholarship was created by Congress in 1985, an “eligible student” for the scholarship was defined as “a graduate of a public or private secondary school….” Homeschool graduates in states that recognized homeschoolers as a private school were able to benefit from this scholarship, but since many homeschool graduates live in states with a homeschool statute, these hardworking homeschoolers were inadvertently excluded from this scholarship. This could be fixed by simply adding to the “eligible student” definition above “or a home school, whether treated as a home school or a private school under State law.” This language would assure that homeschool graduates could benefit from the scholarship, but also protect against any federal definitions or regulations on homeschools....
Rush, "Fruit of the Loom"
The very sad truth about the USA Republican Party is that they have NO leader and when they do it manifests in the way of people that are unethical, exploitive and criminal in their approach to 'control' in government to benefit a political outcome.
Let us not FORGET the 'Terry's Law' and the Terry Shiavo Case (click here) that simply was a 'poitical favor' to Pro-Lifers that were attempting to disenfranchise a spouse and the Florida Court System. That effort was lead by Jeb Bush and Tom DeLay. These people are 'qualified' to speak to leadership issues and critique there of for The Republican Party?
The Republican Party is grossly negligent of the best interest of this nation as it has manifested in the fiscal collapse of its 'market place.' The Republicans claim that 'the market place' is their speciality and lowering taxes and eliminating taxation all together would prove a booming economy when nothing else could.
Really?
It would seem Tom DeLay has it "W"rong, hence, we need to apologize to the world for allowing 'The Fruit of the American Loom' to have actually propagated wars and exploitive economic policies that have threatened the sovereignty of every country, except of course, that of Goldman-Sachs.
Let us not FORGET the 'Terry's Law' and the Terry Shiavo Case (click here) that simply was a 'poitical favor' to Pro-Lifers that were attempting to disenfranchise a spouse and the Florida Court System. That effort was lead by Jeb Bush and Tom DeLay. These people are 'qualified' to speak to leadership issues and critique there of for The Republican Party?
The Republican Party is grossly negligent of the best interest of this nation as it has manifested in the fiscal collapse of its 'market place.' The Republicans claim that 'the market place' is their speciality and lowering taxes and eliminating taxation all together would prove a booming economy when nothing else could.
Really?
It would seem Tom DeLay has it "W"rong, hence, we need to apologize to the world for allowing 'The Fruit of the American Loom' to have actually propagated wars and exploitive economic policies that have threatened the sovereignty of every country, except of course, that of Goldman-Sachs.
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