No, I haven't been carted off to the looney bin. (yet.)
Internet's been down for the past week.
Not exactly working now.
Dunno when I'll get back to regular updates.
:(
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Tuesday, August 04, 2009
Romanian mayor in Nazi dress row
A Romanian mayor who appeared at a local fashion show dressed in a Nazi uniform is sharply criticised by Jewish groups.
Bad news for Brown as IMF says Britain's debt crisis is the worst among major economies
Search is on for "pirate attackers" in Baltic Sea
Stockholm - Swedish police Friday treating very seriously reports of a mysterious presumed pirate attack on a Maltese-registered freighter in the Baltic Sea.
UK: Non-Muslims turning to Sharia courts to resolve civil disputes
Ukraine May Get $1.7 Billion From International Lenders for Gas
***
Venezuelans protest dramatic rise in kidnappings
Venezuela begins shutdown of 34 radio stations
Venezuela OKs election law, foes say favors Chavez
Shocker!
Honduras’s Zelaya Not Welcome in Nicaragua, Lawmakers Say
The head of Nicaragua’s largest opposition party said deposed Honduran President Manuel Zelaya should find another country from which to stage a return to power.
haha! Nobody wants him.
Soldiers Deployed In Mexico After Cartel Attacks Police
About 2,500 soldiers spread out across the western state on Monday, adding to 1,500 police and 1,000 military personnel already deployed in the area.
Archaeologists find 20 ancient human skeletons with their offerings in Mexico
TG Daily - End of the world postponed until Christmas
The long-awaited restart of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) has been postponed until the winter of 2009.
Dude! As often as this gets put off, maybe it really would end the world.
Aerial Photos of Italian Farms Reveal Outline of An Ancient City
Texas Scorched by Worst Drought in 50 Years
Texas droughts force serious measures
$60 million in federal grants to ease Valley water shortages - Bakersfield, CA
India - Jharkhand farmers despair at drought
Researchers Project Intense Fire Season in the West
Fires rage across Canary island (check out the link to pics on the sidebar.)
Up to 4,000 people are evacuated from their homes as fires rage out of control on the Spanish island of La Palma.
Meteor Showers / For sky lights, put big city behind you
PA - Flooding forces evacuations near Watsontown
One dead and up to 40 injured after storm rips through Canadian music festival
Nigeria: Nema Allays Fear Over Poisonous Gas From Lake Nyos
Blame Canada: Source of booming sounds revealed?
A Romanian mayor who appeared at a local fashion show dressed in a Nazi uniform is sharply criticised by Jewish groups.
Bad news for Brown as IMF says Britain's debt crisis is the worst among major economies
Search is on for "pirate attackers" in Baltic Sea
Stockholm - Swedish police Friday treating very seriously reports of a mysterious presumed pirate attack on a Maltese-registered freighter in the Baltic Sea.
UK: Non-Muslims turning to Sharia courts to resolve civil disputes
Ukraine May Get $1.7 Billion From International Lenders for Gas
***
Venezuelans protest dramatic rise in kidnappings
Venezuela begins shutdown of 34 radio stations
Venezuela OKs election law, foes say favors Chavez
Shocker!
Honduras’s Zelaya Not Welcome in Nicaragua, Lawmakers Say
The head of Nicaragua’s largest opposition party said deposed Honduran President Manuel Zelaya should find another country from which to stage a return to power.
haha! Nobody wants him.
Soldiers Deployed In Mexico After Cartel Attacks Police
About 2,500 soldiers spread out across the western state on Monday, adding to 1,500 police and 1,000 military personnel already deployed in the area.
Archaeologists find 20 ancient human skeletons with their offerings in Mexico
TG Daily - End of the world postponed until Christmas
The long-awaited restart of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) has been postponed until the winter of 2009.
Dude! As often as this gets put off, maybe it really would end the world.
Aerial Photos of Italian Farms Reveal Outline of An Ancient City
Texas Scorched by Worst Drought in 50 Years
Texas droughts force serious measures
$60 million in federal grants to ease Valley water shortages - Bakersfield, CA
India - Jharkhand farmers despair at drought
Researchers Project Intense Fire Season in the West
Fires rage across Canary island (check out the link to pics on the sidebar.)
Up to 4,000 people are evacuated from their homes as fires rage out of control on the Spanish island of La Palma.
Meteor Showers / For sky lights, put big city behind you
PA - Flooding forces evacuations near Watsontown
One dead and up to 40 injured after storm rips through Canadian music festival
Nigeria: Nema Allays Fear Over Poisonous Gas From Lake Nyos
Blame Canada: Source of booming sounds revealed?
China arrests 7 in gun plot against HK democrat: report
Report: China stops mining project with NKorea
Big chunk of Australian tin off to China
TIN is one of the least fathomable base metals market at present, due partly to recent Chinese stockpiling of the metal.
China summons Aussie ambassador over Uighur visit
Meanwhile, China is still holding the Rio Tinto exec.
BHP Billiton Says Uranium Sales to China to Start Within a Year
ENRC pulls out of Kazakh-China railway
China dips its toe in the Black Sea
***
Christians arrested, 1 executed in N. Korea
U.S. Ships in Sim North Korea Missile Smackdown
N.Korea 'helping Myanmar build nuclear plant': report
Clinton in NKorea on apparent bid to free journalists
Hey, buddy, how'd that agreement to get them to stop the weapons program go?
Take Bush while you're at it, since he did squat when the inspectors were kicked out.
10,000 defy Malaysia police, protest detention law
***
Shifting Tides Of Influence In Central Asia
Eighteen years after the five former Soviet republics of Central Asia became independent, outsiders continue to jockey for position in the traditional contest for influence in the region.
The great powers -- Russia, the United States, China, and Europe -- follow two main strategies to gain or hold sway in the region: the provision of mutual security, and the use of financial measures and trade incentives in exchange for access to enormous energy reserves.
Officials fall to Kazakh corruption drive
Drive, purge, whatever...
Kazakhstan's uranium boss ill in detention: wife
Kazakhstan's most prominent uranium industry figure, whose arrest has alarmed foreign investors in Central Asia's biggest economy, is in poor health and requires urgent medical attention, his wife said on Friday.
Turkmenistan-Iran gas pipeline to be finished end-2009
Taliban vow to disrupt Afghanistan election
US general may ask for more troops for Afghan war
Pakistan Objects to U.S. Plan for Afghan War
Pakistan judge says won't try Musharraf for treason
Pakistan's top judge turned down a request on Thursday to launch a treason case against former military ruler Pervez Musharraf, saying the Supreme Court lacked the authority.
Where the Mullahs Are the Upper Crust
Pakistan’s Taliban seeks class war, but in the heartland, there is a surprisingly comfortable coexistence between the mullahs, the landlords and the political elite.
Man Tied to Group in Pearl Murder Arrested in Pakistan, AP Says
***
Six Christians killed in Pakistan over Koran 'insult' (early report)
An angry mob of Muslims on Saturday killed six Christians and wounded dozens after burning 40 houses and a church over the alleged desecration of the Koran in a remote Pakistani town, officials said.
PAKISTAN Muslims burn 75 Christian homes and 2 churches in Punjab
An alleged accusation of blasphemy sparks violence. The Pakistani president Zardari assures compensation for damages to the victims and sent the Minister for Minorities and Human Rights to express the government’s solidarity with the Christian community attacked.
Muslims burn Christians alive in Pakistani city after rumour about a defaced Koran sparked riots
Hundreds of Muslims torched and looted Christian homes in Gorja. A man, a woman and four children were burned to death in their house, and two other men were shot dead by the rioters.
Eight Christians burnt to death in Pakistan after Koran is ‘defiled’
Paramilitary troops patrolled the streets of a town in eastern Pakistan yesterday after Muslim radicals burnt to death eight members of a Christian family, raising fears of violence spreading to other areas.
***
Somali insurgents loot U.N. compounds
EU anti-piracy force to move some planes south
Monsoon season is almost over.
Caritas aid worker shot dead in Congo
PARIS, July 21 (Reuters) - A Congolese employee of French charity Caritas France was shot dead in Democratic Republic of Congo after being stopped by two men in army uniforms, the charity's umbrella organisation said on Tuesday.
Uganda: Seven Local Girls Sold Into Slavery Missing
Libya eyes a new arsenal
The Libyan coast guard is now operating Croatian-built patrol boats in the western Mediterranean as Russia and Western governments elbow each other for substantial orders for new equipment to update Col. Moammar Gadhafi's armed forces.
Al Qaeda claims deadly attack in Algeria - web
Al Qaeda's north African wing said on Saturday its fighters were behind an attack in Algeria earlier this week in which several soldiers were killed.
Lawmaker from Zimbabwe PM's party arrested for song
Mockery through music!
***
Nigeria on the brink
Four days of violence in Nigeria have left hundreds dead, destroyed towns and villages across the north, brought the cold-blooded police shooting of an Islamist rabble-rouser and left the outside world horrified.
Bodies litter streets after unrest in Nigeria
Nigeria clashes bode ill for west Africa
Nigeria: Boko Haram Leader, Yusuf, Killed
700 have died in Nigeria unrest
A Nigerian military official said Saturday that about 700 people were killed in the northern city of Maiduguri during recent fighting between police and a radical Islamist sect. The toll was previously thought to be around 300.
Make that 800:
Nigeria Violence Sparks New Concerns
More than 800 people were killed last week during fighting between an Islamic fundamentalist group calling itself Boko Haram, and Nigerian security forces. The clashes spread across several northern states.
Report: China stops mining project with NKorea
Big chunk of Australian tin off to China
TIN is one of the least fathomable base metals market at present, due partly to recent Chinese stockpiling of the metal.
China summons Aussie ambassador over Uighur visit
Meanwhile, China is still holding the Rio Tinto exec.
BHP Billiton Says Uranium Sales to China to Start Within a Year
ENRC pulls out of Kazakh-China railway
China dips its toe in the Black Sea
***
Christians arrested, 1 executed in N. Korea
U.S. Ships in Sim North Korea Missile Smackdown
N.Korea 'helping Myanmar build nuclear plant': report
Clinton in NKorea on apparent bid to free journalists
Hey, buddy, how'd that agreement to get them to stop the weapons program go?
Take Bush while you're at it, since he did squat when the inspectors were kicked out.
10,000 defy Malaysia police, protest detention law
***
Shifting Tides Of Influence In Central Asia
Eighteen years after the five former Soviet republics of Central Asia became independent, outsiders continue to jockey for position in the traditional contest for influence in the region.
The great powers -- Russia, the United States, China, and Europe -- follow two main strategies to gain or hold sway in the region: the provision of mutual security, and the use of financial measures and trade incentives in exchange for access to enormous energy reserves.
Officials fall to Kazakh corruption drive
Drive, purge, whatever...
Kazakhstan's uranium boss ill in detention: wife
Kazakhstan's most prominent uranium industry figure, whose arrest has alarmed foreign investors in Central Asia's biggest economy, is in poor health and requires urgent medical attention, his wife said on Friday.
Turkmenistan-Iran gas pipeline to be finished end-2009
Taliban vow to disrupt Afghanistan election
US general may ask for more troops for Afghan war
Pakistan Objects to U.S. Plan for Afghan War
Pakistan judge says won't try Musharraf for treason
Pakistan's top judge turned down a request on Thursday to launch a treason case against former military ruler Pervez Musharraf, saying the Supreme Court lacked the authority.
Where the Mullahs Are the Upper Crust
Pakistan’s Taliban seeks class war, but in the heartland, there is a surprisingly comfortable coexistence between the mullahs, the landlords and the political elite.
Man Tied to Group in Pearl Murder Arrested in Pakistan, AP Says
***
Six Christians killed in Pakistan over Koran 'insult' (early report)
An angry mob of Muslims on Saturday killed six Christians and wounded dozens after burning 40 houses and a church over the alleged desecration of the Koran in a remote Pakistani town, officials said.
PAKISTAN Muslims burn 75 Christian homes and 2 churches in Punjab
An alleged accusation of blasphemy sparks violence. The Pakistani president Zardari assures compensation for damages to the victims and sent the Minister for Minorities and Human Rights to express the government’s solidarity with the Christian community attacked.
Muslims burn Christians alive in Pakistani city after rumour about a defaced Koran sparked riots
Hundreds of Muslims torched and looted Christian homes in Gorja. A man, a woman and four children were burned to death in their house, and two other men were shot dead by the rioters.
Eight Christians burnt to death in Pakistan after Koran is ‘defiled’
Paramilitary troops patrolled the streets of a town in eastern Pakistan yesterday after Muslim radicals burnt to death eight members of a Christian family, raising fears of violence spreading to other areas.
***
Somali insurgents loot U.N. compounds
EU anti-piracy force to move some planes south
Monsoon season is almost over.
Caritas aid worker shot dead in Congo
PARIS, July 21 (Reuters) - A Congolese employee of French charity Caritas France was shot dead in Democratic Republic of Congo after being stopped by two men in army uniforms, the charity's umbrella organisation said on Tuesday.
Uganda: Seven Local Girls Sold Into Slavery Missing
Libya eyes a new arsenal
The Libyan coast guard is now operating Croatian-built patrol boats in the western Mediterranean as Russia and Western governments elbow each other for substantial orders for new equipment to update Col. Moammar Gadhafi's armed forces.
Al Qaeda claims deadly attack in Algeria - web
Al Qaeda's north African wing said on Saturday its fighters were behind an attack in Algeria earlier this week in which several soldiers were killed.
Lawmaker from Zimbabwe PM's party arrested for song
Mockery through music!
***
Nigeria on the brink
Four days of violence in Nigeria have left hundreds dead, destroyed towns and villages across the north, brought the cold-blooded police shooting of an Islamist rabble-rouser and left the outside world horrified.
Bodies litter streets after unrest in Nigeria
Nigeria clashes bode ill for west Africa
Nigeria: Boko Haram Leader, Yusuf, Killed
700 have died in Nigeria unrest
A Nigerian military official said Saturday that about 700 people were killed in the northern city of Maiduguri during recent fighting between police and a radical Islamist sect. The toll was previously thought to be around 300.
Make that 800:
Nigeria Violence Sparks New Concerns
More than 800 people were killed last week during fighting between an Islamic fundamentalist group calling itself Boko Haram, and Nigerian security forces. The clashes spread across several northern states.
A Red Cross worker in the northern city of Maiduguri, where most of the fighting occurred, said that 780 bodies had been collected in the past few days, and that at least 3,600 Maiduguri residents had been displaced. Officials in Bauchi, where the violence began, had earlier confirmed more than 50 deaths.
Rights groups say many civilians were among those killed, though exact figures remain unknown. Police say most of the dead were militants.
Powder keg.
Iraq's farms in shambles
Iraq PM flies to US to meet Obama, seek investment
Death toll reaches 12 in Iraqi refugee camp violence
At least 12 people have died in clashes between Iraqi police and members of an exiled Iranian opposition group at an Iraqi refugee camp, a group spokesman told CNN Friday.
***
Lebanon arrests 10 for plotting attacks on UN troops
What the Romans Wrought in Lebanon
Baal and Bacchus and Hizb'allah, oh my!
Sadr pushes bilateral ties in Syria
The visit to Damascus by Iraqi Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr was part of a broader effort to strengthen ties between the two Arab neighbors, officials said.
Assad: Golan will yet return to Arab hands
Saudi Minister Rejects Incremental Steps Toward Mideast Peace
Why Yemen could become Al Qaeda haven
***
Why Israel is Nervous
Tension is escalating between the U.S and Israel. The problem: The administration views the Israeli-Palestinian issue as the root of all problems, while Israel is focused on Iran’s nuclear threat, says Elliott Abrams.
Sheikh Khatib: We'll never give up al-Aqsa
Islamic Movement leader tells Arab children Israeli occupation of Jerusalem must end
Why Israel is Nervous!
Turkish leader presses Israel to return Golan
Why Israel is Nervous!
Saudi Minister Rejects Incremental Steps Toward Mideast Peace
Saudi Arabia praised the Obama administration Friday for its "early and robust focus" on the Middle East while rebuffing its efforts to push Riyadh to take confidence-building steps toward Israel.
Why Israel is Nervous!
Fatah to reject Israel as Jewish state at congress: document
Do I need to say it?
Anti-Settlement Group Takes Palestinian Property Claims to Israel's High Court
Ugh.
Poll: Israel is only country where support for US dropped
Israel is the only country paying attention to what's going on.
Europeans seeking $100m. investment in W. Bank power grid | Middle East | Jerusalem Post
***
For Iran’s Opposition, ‘Death to Russia’ Is the New ‘Death to America’
In Iran, opposition supporters who attended the Friday Prayer service in Tehran last week responded to calls to chant "Death to America!" by chanting "Death to Russia!" instead.
'Cause the government in curling up with the bear.
Iran activists dread midnight knock of police raid
Iran begins mourning cycle that could deepen unrest
Thousands of people clashed with security forces in the streets after a symbolic 40-day period since the death of protesters. Thirty years ago, such protests helped bring down the Shah.
Iran witnesses: Neda memorial
German Firm Withdraws Threat to Fire Employees in Iran
Knauf, a German building materials company that last week told its employees in Iran they would be fired if they participated in political demonstrations, withdrew the threat.
Iran detains US hikers who strayed across border from Iraq
Details are still emerging, but Kurdish officials say the tourists had been warned that the border was poorly marked.
Iran is ready to build an N-bomb - it is just waiting for the Ayatollah's order
Iran has perfected the technology to create and detonate a nuclear warhead and is merely awaiting the word from its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, to produce its first bomb, Western intelligence sources have told The Times.
Iraq PM flies to US to meet Obama, seek investment
Death toll reaches 12 in Iraqi refugee camp violence
At least 12 people have died in clashes between Iraqi police and members of an exiled Iranian opposition group at an Iraqi refugee camp, a group spokesman told CNN Friday.
***
Lebanon arrests 10 for plotting attacks on UN troops
What the Romans Wrought in Lebanon
Baal and Bacchus and Hizb'allah, oh my!
Sadr pushes bilateral ties in Syria
The visit to Damascus by Iraqi Shiite cleric Moqtada Sadr was part of a broader effort to strengthen ties between the two Arab neighbors, officials said.
Assad: Golan will yet return to Arab hands
Saudi Minister Rejects Incremental Steps Toward Mideast Peace
Why Yemen could become Al Qaeda haven
***
Why Israel is Nervous
Tension is escalating between the U.S and Israel. The problem: The administration views the Israeli-Palestinian issue as the root of all problems, while Israel is focused on Iran’s nuclear threat, says Elliott Abrams.
Sheikh Khatib: We'll never give up al-Aqsa
Islamic Movement leader tells Arab children Israeli occupation of Jerusalem must end
Why Israel is Nervous!
Turkish leader presses Israel to return Golan
Why Israel is Nervous!
Saudi Minister Rejects Incremental Steps Toward Mideast Peace
Saudi Arabia praised the Obama administration Friday for its "early and robust focus" on the Middle East while rebuffing its efforts to push Riyadh to take confidence-building steps toward Israel.
Why Israel is Nervous!
Fatah to reject Israel as Jewish state at congress: document
Do I need to say it?
Anti-Settlement Group Takes Palestinian Property Claims to Israel's High Court
Ugh.
Poll: Israel is only country where support for US dropped
Israel is the only country paying attention to what's going on.
Europeans seeking $100m. investment in W. Bank power grid | Middle East | Jerusalem Post
***
For Iran’s Opposition, ‘Death to Russia’ Is the New ‘Death to America’
In Iran, opposition supporters who attended the Friday Prayer service in Tehran last week responded to calls to chant "Death to America!" by chanting "Death to Russia!" instead.
'Cause the government in curling up with the bear.
Iran activists dread midnight knock of police raid
Iran begins mourning cycle that could deepen unrest
Thousands of people clashed with security forces in the streets after a symbolic 40-day period since the death of protesters. Thirty years ago, such protests helped bring down the Shah.
Iran witnesses: Neda memorial
German Firm Withdraws Threat to Fire Employees in Iran
Knauf, a German building materials company that last week told its employees in Iran they would be fired if they participated in political demonstrations, withdrew the threat.
Iran detains US hikers who strayed across border from Iraq
Details are still emerging, but Kurdish officials say the tourists had been warned that the border was poorly marked.
Iran is ready to build an N-bomb - it is just waiting for the Ayatollah's order
Iran has perfected the technology to create and detonate a nuclear warhead and is merely awaiting the word from its Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, to produce its first bomb, Western intelligence sources have told The Times.
Monday, August 03, 2009
North Korea to host Russian gas pipeline?
South Korean officials are set to visit Russia in August to discuss the potential for laying a gas pipeline through North Korean territory.
Putin marks construction of new pipeline
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin attended opening ceremonies Friday for construction of the first leg of a new natural gas pipeline in Russia's Far East.
Moscow, Baku relations linked to energy
Moscow, [insert any national capital here] relations linked to energy.
Ex-Soviet states meet for 'Russian NATO' summit
In Russia, witnesses risk their lives
Valery Kazakov was almost to the prosecutor's office when the killers caught him. He was shot as he cut through an alleyway, and when he stumbled bleeding into the street, a man bent down to stab the final breaths out of him.
Riot police use brute force to break up Moscow rally
"What kind of country is this? They're all bandits," cried Yekaterina Veselovskaya, 60, as riot police dragged off a friend. "We're going back to the Stalinist 1930s." In a new tactic, undercover agents and police arrested people for giving interviews to the press.
"Ever since Putin came to power, all his decisions have led to murder," Alexei Korostyshevsky told The Daily Telegraph before being grabbed by two undercover police. At least three similar arrests were made.
Russia to upgrade its naval base in Syria
Iran and Russia: No Love Lost
Yet they're now coming together.
Canada watching Russian Arctic moves closely
I would hope so.
***
Putin dives to new depths
Vladimir Putin has dived to the bottom of the world's deepest lake in Siberia, aboard a mini-submarine.
Putin dons wetsuit, gets cozy with whale: reports
You know what interests me about these PR stunts? The contrast with our own dear leader.
Putin carefully controls his image to come across as an aggressive manly-man.
Obama carefully controls his image to come across as a metrosexual intellectual.
Consider what that says about their target audiences. Oy.
***
A Hot Summer in Europe (short read, very good)
Russia Says Georgia Fired on South Ossetia, Threatens Force
Russia accused Georgia of firing at South Ossetia and warned that its troops may fight back, as the countries prepare for the first anniversary of the war over the separatist region. Georgia denied the claims.
Russia Accused of Altering Border
Georgia said Russian reconnaissance teams entered the village of Kveshi in a disputed region in an attempt to move the boundary several hundred yards to a strategically better position.
South Ossetia one year on: Georgians wait in fear for Russians to return
A year ago, the Kremlin shocked the world when it sent troops into Georgia. Today, the war clouds over South Ossetia are gathering once more.
INTERVIEW - Saakashvili says Russia still wants him out
Threat of war hangs over Georgian energy routes
BASHKOI, Georgia (Reuters) - More than 800,000 barrels of high-quality Caspian crude oil flow daily to the Mediterranean beneath this Georgian village, 42 km (26 miles) from breakaway South Ossetia.
Georgia’s Leader Escapes Damage in Biden Visit
But is his teleprompter still okay?
***
UN experts ask Azerbaijan to stop free speech curbs
Scuffle in wedding place in Baku, five knifed
Azerbaijan to start gold exports
Turkish oil exploration rankles Greeks
An oil exploration plan by Turkey increased tension created when Turkish jets violated Greek air space, officials told the news agency Kathimerini.
8,000-year-old human skeleton found in a Turkey tomb
An 8,000-year-old human skeleton was found during excavations in one of the oldest residential areas in southern Turkey, a media report said.
South Korean officials are set to visit Russia in August to discuss the potential for laying a gas pipeline through North Korean territory.
Putin marks construction of new pipeline
Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin attended opening ceremonies Friday for construction of the first leg of a new natural gas pipeline in Russia's Far East.
Moscow, Baku relations linked to energy
Moscow, [insert any national capital here] relations linked to energy.
Ex-Soviet states meet for 'Russian NATO' summit
In Russia, witnesses risk their lives
Valery Kazakov was almost to the prosecutor's office when the killers caught him. He was shot as he cut through an alleyway, and when he stumbled bleeding into the street, a man bent down to stab the final breaths out of him.
Riot police use brute force to break up Moscow rally
"What kind of country is this? They're all bandits," cried Yekaterina Veselovskaya, 60, as riot police dragged off a friend. "We're going back to the Stalinist 1930s." In a new tactic, undercover agents and police arrested people for giving interviews to the press.
"Ever since Putin came to power, all his decisions have led to murder," Alexei Korostyshevsky told The Daily Telegraph before being grabbed by two undercover police. At least three similar arrests were made.
Russia to upgrade its naval base in Syria
Iran and Russia: No Love Lost
Yet they're now coming together.
Canada watching Russian Arctic moves closely
I would hope so.
***
Putin dives to new depths
Vladimir Putin has dived to the bottom of the world's deepest lake in Siberia, aboard a mini-submarine.
Putin dons wetsuit, gets cozy with whale: reports
You know what interests me about these PR stunts? The contrast with our own dear leader.
Putin carefully controls his image to come across as an aggressive manly-man.
Obama carefully controls his image to come across as a metrosexual intellectual.
Consider what that says about their target audiences. Oy.
***
A Hot Summer in Europe (short read, very good)
Can President Obama and the European Union contain Moscow’s ambitions and whims? Or will they purchase a fallacious and precarious tranquility by sacrificing Georgia’s independence? At stake is the very sovereignty of Europe: its energy independence. Energy has become decisive because for Putin, gas is now a weapon as powerful as a deterrent arsenal. Consider a popular song performed by a military choir in Moscow. Its chorus depicts the “radiant future” that Gazprom is preparing: “Europe has a problem with us? We will cut off its gas; a big smile will rise in our eyes and happiness will leave us no more.” Similar sentiments are expressed toward the Ukraine and its desire to join NATO, as well as toward American forces all over the world. The Russian public loves the song.
If Tbilisi falls, there will be no way to get around Gazprom and guarantee autonomous access to the gas and petroleum wealth of Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, and Kazakhstan. As for the global credibility of President Obama, it will amount to no more than the empty-sleeved gestures of someone whose arms have been amputated.
Russia Says Georgia Fired on South Ossetia, Threatens Force
Russia accused Georgia of firing at South Ossetia and warned that its troops may fight back, as the countries prepare for the first anniversary of the war over the separatist region. Georgia denied the claims.
Russia Accused of Altering Border
Georgia said Russian reconnaissance teams entered the village of Kveshi in a disputed region in an attempt to move the boundary several hundred yards to a strategically better position.
South Ossetia one year on: Georgians wait in fear for Russians to return
A year ago, the Kremlin shocked the world when it sent troops into Georgia. Today, the war clouds over South Ossetia are gathering once more.
INTERVIEW - Saakashvili says Russia still wants him out
Threat of war hangs over Georgian energy routes
BASHKOI, Georgia (Reuters) - More than 800,000 barrels of high-quality Caspian crude oil flow daily to the Mediterranean beneath this Georgian village, 42 km (26 miles) from breakaway South Ossetia.
Georgia’s Leader Escapes Damage in Biden Visit
But is his teleprompter still okay?
***
UN experts ask Azerbaijan to stop free speech curbs
Scuffle in wedding place in Baku, five knifed
Azerbaijan to start gold exports
Turkish oil exploration rankles Greeks
An oil exploration plan by Turkey increased tension created when Turkish jets violated Greek air space, officials told the news agency Kathimerini.
8,000-year-old human skeleton found in a Turkey tomb
An 8,000-year-old human skeleton was found during excavations in one of the oldest residential areas in southern Turkey, a media report said.
Long hot summer...
UN agency: Saudi Arabia to fund world summit on food security in Rome in November
US signs disabled rights treaty
The United States on Thursday signed a U.N. treaty enshrining the rights of the world's 650 million disabled people, saying it symbolized President Barack Obama's commitment to upholding human rights through international agreements.
'$10 trillion' credit crunch cost
The global credit crunch has cost governments more than $10 trillion, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) says.
House Approves $636 Billion Defense Spending Bill
U.S. judge rules for Fed in Fox News Network request
G-20 police planning a puzzle for Pittsburgh chief
Arabic teacher at Clemson faces immigration charge
Clemson scholar moved to Alabama
After Bomb Scare, Tempers Flare at La Guardia
Even after terminals had reopened at La Guardia Airport, scores of flights were delayed and tempers were flaring.
Pentagon, Eyeing Iran, Wants to Rush 30,000-Pound Bomb Program
Regulators crack down on 3 Georgia banks
Regulators have served three small Georgia banks, including the Bank of Georgia in Peachtree City, with 'cease and desist' orders.
News From USJFCOM: Situational awareness experiment prepares for real world crises
During the recently completed Interagency Shared Situational Awareness (IA SSA) Limited Objective Experiment (LOE), U.S. Joint Forces Command and its partners addressed standards, policies and procedures involving sharing of information with interagency, multinational and non-government agencies during crisis operations.
Mystery ends: Pilot's remains found in Iraq desert
Capt. Speicher, finally coming home.
1 Month, 24 Bank Failures: Random Event or Wilting Economy?
Biggest revenue drop since 1932
Stocks Rally is "Excessive", Financial System "Very Damaged" Says Roubini
No, really? My take: over 10k by the time we get a "peace in our time" statement.
***
Northwest Arctic, North Slope villages to have cell coverage by September
Like many small Alaska villages, Buckland is still waiting for running water and a sewer system. But long before a single flush toilet is installed, it will have connectivity of a different kind.
Buckland, along with every village in the North Slope Borough, Northwest Arctic Borough and a handful of other communities, is getting cell phone service this September through GCI.
Cell phones before sewers?
Nazi concentration camp survivor, 90, found strangled
A 90-year-old Holocaust survivor was found strangled Thursday in his Upper East Side apartment, a spokeswoman for the New York City medical examiner said Friday.
Cash for Clunkers may take over your computer - Glenn Beck
And now today: Glenn Beck - The Government Removes Disclaimer,But Not The Law
It gives me the heebie-jeebies because I got a warning on another government site. See, I saw this story:
Florida man sees security exercise, calls police
and thought, gosh, there have been a lot of these drills lately. Maybe June or July is Disaster preparedness month or something?
So I went to FEMA's site (http://www.fema.gov/). They didn't have a 'news' section, so I clicked on Training. Once there I got there, I got distracted by this:
Well, shiny. That's not so terribly far from me. So I clicked on the link, and got a Java pop-up box and this:
Well, okay. So I backed away slowly.
Instead, here's the wikipedia entry on the CDP.
I wonder how many sites have such warnings?
Meanwhile, the natives are getting restless:
YouTube - Lloyd Doggett's meeting on Obamacare in south Austin, TX, 1 Aug 2009
***
YouTube - Crowd Explodes When Arlen Specter Urges That We "Do This Fast"
***
YouTube - US Soldier Demands Apology From Senator Claire McCaskill at Town Hall
***
YouTube - Obama Town Hall Meeting Protest Bristol Virginia July 29, 2009
***
Cops suspended for Obama check
Two DeKalb County Officers are being investigated for allegedly performing a background check on President Barack Obama.
Suborned in the U.S.A. by Andrew C. McCarthy
Mark Steyn: No turning back from Obamacare
US signs disabled rights treaty
The United States on Thursday signed a U.N. treaty enshrining the rights of the world's 650 million disabled people, saying it symbolized President Barack Obama's commitment to upholding human rights through international agreements.
The signing by U.S. Ambassador Susan Rice marked a dramatic shift from the Bush administration, which refused to take part in negotiations on the treaty, arguing that it would dilute protections for U.S. citizens under the 1990 Americans with Disabilities Act.
'$10 trillion' credit crunch cost
The global credit crunch has cost governments more than $10 trillion, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) says.
The IMF says that rich countries have provided $9.2tn in government support for the financial sector, while emerging economies spent $1.6 tn.
House Approves $636 Billion Defense Spending Bill
U.S. judge rules for Fed in Fox News Network request
A U.S. judge on Thursday denied a bid by Fox News Network LLC seeking details from the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve about the central bank's loans to companies affected by the financial crisis.
...
"I rule that one document, which the Board determined is not a record, is indeed, a record. The Board shall identify this document and either produce it or claim an exemption," Hellerstein said in a written order.
"In all other respects, I grant the Board's motion and deny Fox's motion, finding that the Board performed an adequate search and that Exemption 4 permits the Board not to disclose the documents that Fox seeks."
Under Exemption 4 of the FOIA, an agency must demonstrate that the information sought is a "trade secret" or "commercial or financial" in character and "obtained from a person" and "privileged and confidential."
G-20 police planning a puzzle for Pittsburgh chief
Arabic teacher at Clemson faces immigration charge
Clemson scholar moved to Alabama
After Bomb Scare, Tempers Flare at La Guardia
Even after terminals had reopened at La Guardia Airport, scores of flights were delayed and tempers were flaring.
Pentagon, Eyeing Iran, Wants to Rush 30,000-Pound Bomb Program
Regulators crack down on 3 Georgia banks
Regulators have served three small Georgia banks, including the Bank of Georgia in Peachtree City, with 'cease and desist' orders.
News From USJFCOM: Situational awareness experiment prepares for real world crises
During the recently completed Interagency Shared Situational Awareness (IA SSA) Limited Objective Experiment (LOE), U.S. Joint Forces Command and its partners addressed standards, policies and procedures involving sharing of information with interagency, multinational and non-government agencies during crisis operations.
Mystery ends: Pilot's remains found in Iraq desert
Capt. Speicher, finally coming home.
1 Month, 24 Bank Failures: Random Event or Wilting Economy?
Biggest revenue drop since 1932
Stocks Rally is "Excessive", Financial System "Very Damaged" Says Roubini
No, really? My take: over 10k by the time we get a "peace in our time" statement.
***
Northwest Arctic, North Slope villages to have cell coverage by September
Like many small Alaska villages, Buckland is still waiting for running water and a sewer system. But long before a single flush toilet is installed, it will have connectivity of a different kind.
Buckland, along with every village in the North Slope Borough, Northwest Arctic Borough and a handful of other communities, is getting cell phone service this September through GCI.
Cell phones before sewers?
Nazi concentration camp survivor, 90, found strangled
A 90-year-old Holocaust survivor was found strangled Thursday in his Upper East Side apartment, a spokeswoman for the New York City medical examiner said Friday.
Cash for Clunkers may take over your computer - Glenn Beck
And now today: Glenn Beck - The Government Removes Disclaimer,But Not The Law
It gives me the heebie-jeebies because I got a warning on another government site. See, I saw this story:
Florida man sees security exercise, calls police
and thought, gosh, there have been a lot of these drills lately. Maybe June or July is Disaster preparedness month or something?
So I went to FEMA's site (http://www.fema.gov/). They didn't have a 'news' section, so I clicked on Training. Once there I got there, I got distracted by this:
FEMA Training Organizations
Center for Domestic Preparedness
The Center for Domestic Preparedness (CDP) is the United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS)'s only federally chartered Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) training center. The CDP is located in Anniston, Alabama. The Noble Training Facility is also a component of the CDP.
Well, shiny. That's not so terribly far from me. So I clicked on the link, and got a Java pop-up box and this:
WARNING
The use of this U.S. Government system is restricted to authorized users only. Unauthorized access, use, or modification of this computer system or of the data contained herein or in transit to/from this system constitutes a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1030 and state criminal and civil laws. These systems and equipment are subject to monitoring to ensure proper performance of applicable security features or procedures. Such monitoring may result in the acquisition, recording and analysis of all data being communicated, transmitted, processed or stored in this system by a user. If monitoring reveals possible evidence of criminal activity, such evidence may be provided to law enforcement personnel. Anyone who accesses a Federal computer system without authorization or exceeds their access authority, and by any means of such conduct obtains, alters, damages, destroys, or discloses information, or prevents authorized use of information on the computer, shall be subject to fine or imprisonment, or both.
The use of this U.S. Government system is restricted to authorized users only. Unauthorized access, use, or modification of this computer system or of the data contained herein or in transit to/from this system constitutes a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1030 and state criminal and civil laws. These systems and equipment are subject to monitoring to ensure proper performance of applicable security features or procedures. Such monitoring may result in the acquisition, recording and analysis of all data being communicated, transmitted, processed or stored in this system by a user. If monitoring reveals possible evidence of criminal activity, such evidence may be provided to law enforcement personnel. Anyone who accesses a Federal computer system without authorization or exceeds their access authority, and by any means of such conduct obtains, alters, damages, destroys, or discloses information, or prevents authorized use of information on the computer, shall be subject to fine or imprisonment, or both.
Well, okay. So I backed away slowly.
Instead, here's the wikipedia entry on the CDP.
I wonder how many sites have such warnings?
Meanwhile, the natives are getting restless:
YouTube - Lloyd Doggett's meeting on Obamacare in south Austin, TX, 1 Aug 2009
***
YouTube - Crowd Explodes When Arlen Specter Urges That We "Do This Fast"
***
YouTube - US Soldier Demands Apology From Senator Claire McCaskill at Town Hall
***
YouTube - Obama Town Hall Meeting Protest Bristol Virginia July 29, 2009
***
Cops suspended for Obama check
Two DeKalb County Officers are being investigated for allegedly performing a background check on President Barack Obama.
Suborned in the U.S.A. by Andrew C. McCarthy
Mark Steyn: No turning back from Obamacare
I'm gonna rock and roll all night...
...and party every day!
Friday July 31
Magnitude 5.3 - TONGA
Magnitude 5.1 - NAMIBIA
Namibia: Strongest Quake in Country's History Shakes Erongo
Earthquake Shakes Khorixas, Namibia
Magnitude 4.9 - SANTA CRUZ ISLANDS
Magnitude 5.1 - SOUTHEAST OF EASTER ISLAND
Magnitude 5.2 - NEAR THE SOUTH COAST OF PAPUA, INDONESIA
Magnitude 5.4 - JAVA, INDONESIA
Sumba Timur Jolted By 5.5-Magnitude Earthquake
Magnitude 2.1 - VIRGINIA
Another Possible Earthquake - VA
Magnitude 2.0 - SOUTHERN ONTARIO, CANADA
Magnitude 3.1 - BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
Magnitude 2.5 - SOUTHEASTERN MISSOURI
Magnitude 2.2 - SOUTHEASTERN MISSOURI
Magnitude 4.2 - DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Magnitude 4.7 - EASTERN SICHUAN, CHINA
Rains hamper Mayon visual monitoring
***
Saturday August 1
Magnitude 4.8 - TONGA
Magnitude 4.7 - TONGA
Magnitude 4.5 - SOUTH OF JAVA, INDONESIA
Magnitude 5.0 - NEAR THE EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
Magnitude 3.7 - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Magnitude 5.2 - SOUTHERN EAST PACIFIC RISE
Magnitude 5.0 - NEAR THE WEST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
Moderate quake hits off Japan
Magnitude 4.5 - MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
Magnitude 4.8 - NEAR THE WEST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
Magnitude 4.5 - OFF THE COAST OF JALISCO, MEXICO
Magnitude 3.2 - NORTH CAROLINA
Small Earthquake Rattles North Carolina, 2 Other States
Minor earthquake rattles WNC
***
Sunday August 2
Magnitude 4.7 - MARIANA ISLANDS REGION
Magnitude 5.4 - TIMOR REGION, INDONESIA
Magnitude 5.0 - CENTRAL PERU
Magnitude 4.8 - BANDA SEA
Magnitude 6.1 - NEAR THE NORTH COAST OF PAPUA, INDONESIA
Magnitude-6.4 quake shakes Manokwari
Magnitude 4.6 - TAIWAN
Magnitude 4.7 - MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
Magnitude 4.5 - OFFSHORE EL SALVADOR
Volcano-like activity scares people across Lahaul-Spiti - India
***
Monday, August 3
Magnitude 5.0 - SOLOMON ISLANDS
Magnitude 5.1 - GUAM REGION
Magnitude 4.1 - SALTA, ARGENTINA
Magnitude 4.6 - NEAR THE EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
Magnitude 4.5 - MARIANA ISLANDS REGION
Magnitude 4.9 - HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
Moderate quake rocks E Indonesia
Magnitude 4.7 - KERMADEC ISLANDS REGION
Magnitude 4.8 - PAGAN REGION, NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS
Magnitude 5.8 - GULF OF CALIFORNIA
Magnitude 6.9 - GULF OF CALIFORNIA
Magnitude 5.0 - GULF OF CALIFORNIA
Magnitude 5.9 - GULF OF CALIFORNIA
Strong quake hits Mexico's Gulf of California
Earthquake in Mexico felt in Phoenix
6.9 earthquake in Mexico felt across O.C.
Series of earthquakes strike off Baja California, Mexico
Baja earthquakes shake San Diego, Los Angeles
Magnitude 3.4 - CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
Magnitude 2.3 - VIRGINIA
5.1 quake in Southland - NZ
Magnitude 5.3 - NEAR THE COAST OF CENTRAL PERU
Magnitude 5 earthquake shakes southern Peru
Friday July 31
Magnitude 5.3 - TONGA
Magnitude 5.1 - NAMIBIA
Namibia: Strongest Quake in Country's History Shakes Erongo
Earthquake Shakes Khorixas, Namibia
Magnitude 4.9 - SANTA CRUZ ISLANDS
Magnitude 5.1 - SOUTHEAST OF EASTER ISLAND
Magnitude 5.2 - NEAR THE SOUTH COAST OF PAPUA, INDONESIA
Magnitude 5.4 - JAVA, INDONESIA
Sumba Timur Jolted By 5.5-Magnitude Earthquake
Magnitude 2.1 - VIRGINIA
Another Possible Earthquake - VA
Magnitude 2.0 - SOUTHERN ONTARIO, CANADA
Magnitude 3.1 - BAJA CALIFORNIA, MEXICO
Magnitude 2.5 - SOUTHEASTERN MISSOURI
Magnitude 2.2 - SOUTHEASTERN MISSOURI
Magnitude 4.2 - DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Magnitude 4.7 - EASTERN SICHUAN, CHINA
Rains hamper Mayon visual monitoring
***
Saturday August 1
Magnitude 4.8 - TONGA
Magnitude 4.7 - TONGA
Magnitude 4.5 - SOUTH OF JAVA, INDONESIA
Magnitude 5.0 - NEAR THE EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
Magnitude 3.7 - SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
Magnitude 5.2 - SOUTHERN EAST PACIFIC RISE
Magnitude 5.0 - NEAR THE WEST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
Moderate quake hits off Japan
Magnitude 4.5 - MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
Magnitude 4.8 - NEAR THE WEST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
Magnitude 4.5 - OFF THE COAST OF JALISCO, MEXICO
Magnitude 3.2 - NORTH CAROLINA
Small Earthquake Rattles North Carolina, 2 Other States
Minor earthquake rattles WNC
***
Sunday August 2
Magnitude 4.7 - MARIANA ISLANDS REGION
Magnitude 5.4 - TIMOR REGION, INDONESIA
Magnitude 5.0 - CENTRAL PERU
Magnitude 4.8 - BANDA SEA
Magnitude 6.1 - NEAR THE NORTH COAST OF PAPUA, INDONESIA
Magnitude-6.4 quake shakes Manokwari
Magnitude 4.6 - TAIWAN
Magnitude 4.7 - MINDANAO, PHILIPPINES
Magnitude 4.5 - OFFSHORE EL SALVADOR
Volcano-like activity scares people across Lahaul-Spiti - India
***
Monday, August 3
Magnitude 5.0 - SOLOMON ISLANDS
Magnitude 5.1 - GUAM REGION
Magnitude 4.1 - SALTA, ARGENTINA
Magnitude 4.6 - NEAR THE EAST COAST OF HONSHU, JAPAN
Magnitude 4.5 - MARIANA ISLANDS REGION
Magnitude 4.9 - HALMAHERA, INDONESIA
Moderate quake rocks E Indonesia
Magnitude 4.7 - KERMADEC ISLANDS REGION
Magnitude 4.8 - PAGAN REGION, NORTHERN MARIANA ISLANDS
Magnitude 5.8 - GULF OF CALIFORNIA
Magnitude 6.9 - GULF OF CALIFORNIA
Magnitude 5.0 - GULF OF CALIFORNIA
Magnitude 5.9 - GULF OF CALIFORNIA
Strong quake hits Mexico's Gulf of California
Earthquake in Mexico felt in Phoenix
6.9 earthquake in Mexico felt across O.C.
Series of earthquakes strike off Baja California, Mexico
Baja earthquakes shake San Diego, Los Angeles
Magnitude 3.4 - CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
Magnitude 2.3 - VIRGINIA
5.1 quake in Southland - NZ
Magnitude 5.3 - NEAR THE COAST OF CENTRAL PERU
Magnitude 5 earthquake shakes southern Peru
Friday, July 31, 2009
Army officer seeks local truce with NPA due to ‘restive’ Mayon
Bombshell conspiracies in the Philippines
MANILA - A spate of deadly bombings has rocked stability in the Philippines, setting off conspiracy theories about whether Muslim rebels, internationally linked terrorists or President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's government are behind the mysterious attacks.
...
Former House speaker Jose de Venecia has claimed publicly that the bombs are part of a broad destabilizing plot to justify the declaration of martial law and suspension of democracy, including potentially democratic polls scheduled for next year in which Arroyo is barred by constitutional term limits from seeking re-election.
Speaker: No constituent assembly at SONA
Speaker Prospero Nograles downplayed yesterday allegations of former Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. that administration lawmakers would use the joint session of Congress when President Arroyo delivers her State of the Nation Address (SONA) next week to convene a constituent assembly or con-ass and introduce amendments to the Constitution.
Philippine bombings: No one is a suspect and everyone is to blame
The first bombs exploded outside two Catholic cathedrals on the restive southern Philippine island of Mindanao. They were followed by a series of blasts two days later that raised the toll to 12 dead and 100 injured.
***
U.S. ready for talks and sanctions for North Korea
SEOUL (Reuters) - The United States is ready to hold talks with North Korea if the conditions are right but will also press U.N. sanctions to punish Pyongyang for its nuclear and missile tests, a senior U.S. envoy for Asia said on Saturday.
I really don't know whether to scream or hurl.
New tensions as NKorea seizes SKorean fishing boat
3rd Bomb Failed, Saving Lives In Jakarta Attacks
Wife of fugitive militant detained
Ariana Rahma is married to Malaysian fugitive Noordin Mohammad, who is thought to also have masterminded Bali bombings.
China, Taiwan in direct exchange
China slams Uighur leader Kadeer's Japan visit: report
TOKYO (Reuters) - China's ambassador to Japan on Monday slammed a planned Tokyo visit by Uighur leader Rebiya Kadeer, in an apparent escalation of Beijing's campaign against the exile it accuses of instigating deadly ethnic riots.
Deadly riot by China steelworkers scuttles merger
China denies 10,000 Uighurs have disappeared
Abortions Surge in China; Officials Cite Poor Sex Education
How 'bout that one-child policy!
China Detains Prominent Legal Activist
Chinese authorities detained a prominent legal activist, escalating a clampdown on dissent ahead of the 60th anniversary of the founding of Communist Party rule.
China’s PLA opens its doors to raise trust quotient
Magnitude 4.8 - OFF WEST COAST OF THE SOUTH ISLAND, N.Z.
Magnitude 5.2 - NEW BRITAIN REGION, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Magnitude 4.7 - NEW BRITAIN REGION, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Magnitude 4.0 - SOUTHERN ALASKA
Magnitude 4.8 - EASTERN TURKEY
Magnitude 4.7 - SOUTHERN MID-ATLANTIC RIDGE
Magnitude 4.5 - RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS, ALASKA
Aftershocks continue in Fiordland
Magnitude 5.8 - TONGA
Magnitude 4.6 - KENAI PENINSULA, ALASKA
Magnitude 5.4 - SOUTH OF SUMBAWA, INDONESIA
Magnitude 4.6 - HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
Magnitude 4.8 - KOMANDORSKIYE OSTROVA, RUSSIA REGION
Volcanic Ash Threatens Aviation Across North Pacific
Two Hualien farmers tap mud volcano for free gas - China
Magnitude 4.5 - TAJIKISTAN
Another small earthquake beneath LAX
5,200 people affected in Nagchu earthquake
The July 24 quake.
In Japan, getting ready for the Big One
Comet 'unlikely to wipe out Earth'
Duh! Might kill a few billion, but the Book is clear, comets aren't the end.
Bombshell conspiracies in the Philippines
MANILA - A spate of deadly bombings has rocked stability in the Philippines, setting off conspiracy theories about whether Muslim rebels, internationally linked terrorists or President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's government are behind the mysterious attacks.
...
Former House speaker Jose de Venecia has claimed publicly that the bombs are part of a broad destabilizing plot to justify the declaration of martial law and suspension of democracy, including potentially democratic polls scheduled for next year in which Arroyo is barred by constitutional term limits from seeking re-election.
Speaker: No constituent assembly at SONA
Speaker Prospero Nograles downplayed yesterday allegations of former Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. that administration lawmakers would use the joint session of Congress when President Arroyo delivers her State of the Nation Address (SONA) next week to convene a constituent assembly or con-ass and introduce amendments to the Constitution.
Philippine bombings: No one is a suspect and everyone is to blame
The first bombs exploded outside two Catholic cathedrals on the restive southern Philippine island of Mindanao. They were followed by a series of blasts two days later that raised the toll to 12 dead and 100 injured.
***
U.S. ready for talks and sanctions for North Korea
SEOUL (Reuters) - The United States is ready to hold talks with North Korea if the conditions are right but will also press U.N. sanctions to punish Pyongyang for its nuclear and missile tests, a senior U.S. envoy for Asia said on Saturday.
I really don't know whether to scream or hurl.
New tensions as NKorea seizes SKorean fishing boat
3rd Bomb Failed, Saving Lives In Jakarta Attacks
Wife of fugitive militant detained
Ariana Rahma is married to Malaysian fugitive Noordin Mohammad, who is thought to also have masterminded Bali bombings.
China, Taiwan in direct exchange
China slams Uighur leader Kadeer's Japan visit: report
TOKYO (Reuters) - China's ambassador to Japan on Monday slammed a planned Tokyo visit by Uighur leader Rebiya Kadeer, in an apparent escalation of Beijing's campaign against the exile it accuses of instigating deadly ethnic riots.
Deadly riot by China steelworkers scuttles merger
China denies 10,000 Uighurs have disappeared
Abortions Surge in China; Officials Cite Poor Sex Education
How 'bout that one-child policy!
China Detains Prominent Legal Activist
Chinese authorities detained a prominent legal activist, escalating a clampdown on dissent ahead of the 60th anniversary of the founding of Communist Party rule.
China’s PLA opens its doors to raise trust quotient
Magnitude 4.8 - OFF WEST COAST OF THE SOUTH ISLAND, N.Z.
Magnitude 5.2 - NEW BRITAIN REGION, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Magnitude 4.7 - NEW BRITAIN REGION, PAPUA NEW GUINEA
Magnitude 4.0 - SOUTHERN ALASKA
Magnitude 4.8 - EASTERN TURKEY
Magnitude 4.7 - SOUTHERN MID-ATLANTIC RIDGE
Magnitude 4.5 - RAT ISLANDS, ALEUTIAN ISLANDS, ALASKA
Aftershocks continue in Fiordland
Magnitude 5.8 - TONGA
Magnitude 4.6 - KENAI PENINSULA, ALASKA
Magnitude 5.4 - SOUTH OF SUMBAWA, INDONESIA
Magnitude 4.6 - HOKKAIDO, JAPAN REGION
Magnitude 4.8 - KOMANDORSKIYE OSTROVA, RUSSIA REGION
Volcanic Ash Threatens Aviation Across North Pacific
Two Hualien farmers tap mud volcano for free gas - China
Magnitude 4.5 - TAJIKISTAN
Another small earthquake beneath LAX
5,200 people affected in Nagchu earthquake
The July 24 quake.
In Japan, getting ready for the Big One
Comet 'unlikely to wipe out Earth'
Duh! Might kill a few billion, but the Book is clear, comets aren't the end.
Watery graves - Mark Steyn
More Canadian honor killings)
NURSE 'FORCED' TO HELP ABORT
A Brooklyn nurse claims she was forced to choose between her religious convictions and her job when Mount Sinai Hospital ordered her to assist in a late-term abortion against her will.
Aunt: Mom accused in baby death had psych problems
Possession problems, is more like it.
Southwest Airlines Moves In on Frontier
Profit Dropped 66% in Quarter at Exxon Mobil
***
DHS - Remarks by Secretary Napolitano at the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Asset Forfeiture Program National Leadership Conference
Remarks by Attorney General Eric Holder on Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Asset Forfeiture Program at the National Leadership Conference
California's budget fiasco
Infectious Diseases Study Site Questioned
The Department of Homeland Security relied on a rushed, flawed study to justify its decision to locate a $700 million research facility for highly infectious pathogens in a tornado-prone section of Kansas, according to a government report.
Ya think?!?
Lawmakers Raise Concerns Over Defense Communications
Lawmakers are voicing concerns about the Pentagon's strategic communications programs, through which the military aims to win over civilians and erode support for adversaries in countries around the world.
The Pentagon Strives to Tuck in Its Long Logistics 'Tail'
Electricity from garbage, water from exhaust fumes: These could be the future fuel and drink of U.S. military combat soldiers.
The ultimate goal is a "zero footprint" camp that would leave no waste behind and would reduce water and fuel coming in.
*headdesk*
More Steyn: THE NATIONALIZATION OF YOUR BODY
Gateway Pundit: White House Budget Director: Obamacare May Fund Abortions (Video)
Neil Barofsky Says It's Possible Govt. Could Spend $23.7 Trillion to Fix Financial System
Shock: Inside the Healthcare Bill
Transcript of Obama Prime-Time News Conference
And then there were two: Obama meets the Chinese; transcript of president's speech
Honduras orders Venezuelan diplomats expelled
Exiled Honduran leader establishes border camp
Ousted President Manuel Zelaya encamped his roving government in exile in this sleepy mountain town near the Honduran border Sunday to launch his return to power after a coup last month.
Honduras officials lose US visas
The US revokes visas of four members of Honduras's interim government as it presses for ousted President Manuel Zelaya to return.
Fuck the US State Department. Bastards.
Mediator calls for continued sanctions in Honduras
Fuck the mediator, too.
Energy Deal With Brazil Gives Boost to Paraguay
Dozens missing after Haitian boat sinks; 15 dead
Chavez hits at Venezuelan media with new laws
Mexico lawman and his family are slain
More Canadian honor killings)
NURSE 'FORCED' TO HELP ABORT
A Brooklyn nurse claims she was forced to choose between her religious convictions and her job when Mount Sinai Hospital ordered her to assist in a late-term abortion against her will.
Aunt: Mom accused in baby death had psych problems
Possession problems, is more like it.
Southwest Airlines Moves In on Frontier
Profit Dropped 66% in Quarter at Exxon Mobil
***
DHS - Remarks by Secretary Napolitano at the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Asset Forfeiture Program National Leadership Conference
But the challenge for us is—how do we get information analysis from here to anywhere in the United States and get information and analysis back so that we're constantly working on data and information to target our efforts in order to build better cases. And since there are thousands and thousands of police in departments and sheriffs' offices around the country, the way we have decided to do it at the Department of Homeland Security is by more support to state and local fusion centers.
I don't know what states all of you come from, but I think it would be a good thing when you get back home to find out about your fusion center—find out what participation your office has with that fusion center, sit down with the head of it and think about ways that your OCDETF unit can work with the local, state and local fusion center—or indeed perhaps even place some personnel in it.
Because what we are going to get at—these battles cannot be won individually by any office or any agency or any department. They are won when we coordinate, use all of the assets that we have—which only serve to strengthen each other—and move forward on that basis. And I think over time—in particular—these fusion centers are going to be a key tool in our coordinated efforts against crime—particularly large-scale organized crime like drug trafficking organizations.
Remarks by Attorney General Eric Holder on Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Asset Forfeiture Program at the National Leadership Conference
Two examples of OCDETF's innovative and cooperative approach demonstrate the effectiveness of the OCDETF strategy: (1) the establishment of the OCDETF Fusion Center; and (2) the creation of permanent, co-located OCDETF Strike Forces.
The OCDETF Fusion Center was established to address a pressing need for reliable, in-depth intelligence -- from both human and electronic sources -- to target and attack sophisticated international drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. Building on the OCDETF philosophy of cooperation and information-sharing, the Fusion Center brings together into a common database the unfiltered investigative information of each OCDETF member agency. Known as "Compass," this database allows analysts to connect investigative information from multiple agencies and to provide real-time analysis to agents and prosecutors in the field. The Fusion Center works in concert with the DEA-led Multi-Agency Special Operations Division to provide the most complete intelligence picture of criminal organizations currently available to U.S. law enforcement.
...
Yet, the impact of forfeiture is greater than just money. When we look back on the last 25 years of the program, we see a forfeiture regime that has been transformed from a collection of centuries-old laws designed to fight pirates, enforce customs laws and fight illegal contraband, into an array of modern law enforcement tools designed to combat 21st century criminals both at home and abroad. We now have the ability to deprive global criminals of their ill-gotten gains, to seize the instrumentalities of their trade, and to use the power of asset forfeiture to destroy their illegal enterprises.
Operation Honor Student, a case that will be honored here later tonight, illustrates the power of asset forfeiture and its devastating effect on organized criminal activity. In that case, a task force led by the Rhode Island U.S. Attorney's Office, the Asset Forfeiture and Money Laundering Section of the Criminal Division, and the Food and Drug Administration's Office of Criminal Investigations obtained the forfeiture of $2.7 million from the accounts of GeneScience, one of the largest biopharmaceutical companies in China that had been involved in the illegal distribution of Human Growth Hormone into the United States. To accomplish this forfeiture, the task force employed a new statutory vehicle -- 18 U.S.C. section 981(k) -- which permitted the Government to seize the funds, physically located in China, from the corresponding accounts of Chinese banks in New York. This was the first use of section 981(k), enacted as part of the USA Patriot Act, against a Chinese entity, and its success has helped pave the way for subsequent investigations using this groundbreaking authority.
California's budget fiasco
Infectious Diseases Study Site Questioned
The Department of Homeland Security relied on a rushed, flawed study to justify its decision to locate a $700 million research facility for highly infectious pathogens in a tornado-prone section of Kansas, according to a government report.
Ya think?!?
Lawmakers Raise Concerns Over Defense Communications
Lawmakers are voicing concerns about the Pentagon's strategic communications programs, through which the military aims to win over civilians and erode support for adversaries in countries around the world.
The Pentagon Strives to Tuck in Its Long Logistics 'Tail'
Electricity from garbage, water from exhaust fumes: These could be the future fuel and drink of U.S. military combat soldiers.
The ultimate goal is a "zero footprint" camp that would leave no waste behind and would reduce water and fuel coming in.
*headdesk*
More Steyn: THE NATIONALIZATION OF YOUR BODY
Gateway Pundit: White House Budget Director: Obamacare May Fund Abortions (Video)
Neil Barofsky Says It's Possible Govt. Could Spend $23.7 Trillion to Fix Financial System
Sitting down?$23,700,000,000,000. I can't even write that without counting the places.
"The total potential federal government support could reach up to $23.7 trillion," says Neil Barofsky, the special inspector general for the Troubled Asset Relief Program, in a new report obtained Monday by ABC News on the government's efforts to fix the financial system.
Yes, $23.7 trillion.
"The potential financial commitment the American taxpayers could be responsible for is of a size and scope that isn't even imaginable," said Rep. Darrell Issa, R-Calif., ranking member on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee. "If you spent a million dollars a day going back to the birth of Christ, that wouldn't even come close to just $1 trillion -- $23.7 trillion is a staggering figure."
Shock: Inside the Healthcare Bill
Transcript of Obama Prime-Time News Conference
And then there were two: Obama meets the Chinese; transcript of president's speech
Honduras orders Venezuelan diplomats expelled
Exiled Honduran leader establishes border camp
Ousted President Manuel Zelaya encamped his roving government in exile in this sleepy mountain town near the Honduran border Sunday to launch his return to power after a coup last month.
Honduras officials lose US visas
The US revokes visas of four members of Honduras's interim government as it presses for ousted President Manuel Zelaya to return.
Fuck the US State Department. Bastards.
Mediator calls for continued sanctions in Honduras
Fuck the mediator, too.
Energy Deal With Brazil Gives Boost to Paraguay
Dozens missing after Haitian boat sinks; 15 dead
Chavez hits at Venezuelan media with new laws
Mexico lawman and his family are slain
US wants greater military cooperation with Libya
EGYPT: Fatwa issued against secular author
US Navy warns of increased pirate activity
The women who clear Sudan's minefields
ERITREA - THIRD CHRISTIAN THIS YEAR DIES IN MILITARY PRISON
Eritrea: Sanu Resources Ltd. Special Shareholders’ Meeting on Merger in August
mining.
Arabian-Nubian Shield - Wikipedia
UN: Thousands of Somalis are fleeing to Yemen
You KNOW it's bad when they're fleeing TO Yemen.
S.Africa police use rubber bullets to end protest
Sharia law: a recurring violence trigger in Nigeria
Nigerian Islamist attacks spread
65 killed as police battle Nigerian Islamists
Hostages freed in Nigeria clashes
Detained Nigeria sect head 'dead'
Lawmakers Urge U.K. Government to Stick to Rail Franchise Deals
A panel of lawmakers urged the U.K. government not to give in to pressure from rail companies to renegotiate their franchises after National Express Group Plc walked away from one of its operations.
...
On July 1 the government was forced to nationalize the East Coast Main Line, pending the choice of a new operator. The cross-party committee suggested keeping the service in public ownership and using it as a benchmark against which private franchises can be measured.
Forced to, you see. Has nothing to do with the statist takeovers sweeping the globe, oh no.
Spanish barracks hit by car bomb
Travel chaos after Mallorca car bomb kills two police officers
Two separate incidents.
Crimean Tatar Protesters Attacked In Kyiv
A Polarized Moldova Votes, Mindful of the West and Russia
Motorists to pay £250 tax for parking at work - UK
Roubini Sees Risk of ‘Double Dip’ Global Recession
U.S. Pushes for Law of the Sea Ratification as New Arctic Mapping Project Begins
Aaaarrgh!
U.S. Backs Implementing U.N. Doctrine Against Genocide
The Obama administration is supporting moves to implement a U.N. doctrine calling for collective military action to halt genocide.
The next step is to see if the countries in favor of implementing the policy will act when a new genocide is brewing if all other diplomatic actions fail. The doctrine is political, not legal: Although these countries have expressed the political will to act, they aren't legally bound to.
The U.N. just concluded a weeklong debate on implementing the doctrine, which was endorsed by U.N. members in 2005.
The U.S. joined a majority of U.N. countries, including Russia and China, in supporting implementation of the policy, called the Responsibility to Protect doctrine. It may be invoked in only four cases: genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, or crimes against humanity. Climate change, disease or natural disasters are excluded as causes for intervention.
Why am I not reassured?
G-20 groups to Pittsburgh: Nix riot gear
Yeah, just let us at you, don't protect yourself or anything.
EGYPT: Fatwa issued against secular author
US Navy warns of increased pirate activity
The women who clear Sudan's minefields
ERITREA - THIRD CHRISTIAN THIS YEAR DIES IN MILITARY PRISON
Eritrea: Sanu Resources Ltd. Special Shareholders’ Meeting on Merger in August
mining.
Arabian-Nubian Shield - Wikipedia
UN: Thousands of Somalis are fleeing to Yemen
You KNOW it's bad when they're fleeing TO Yemen.
S.Africa police use rubber bullets to end protest
Sharia law: a recurring violence trigger in Nigeria
Nigerian Islamist attacks spread
65 killed as police battle Nigerian Islamists
Hostages freed in Nigeria clashes
Detained Nigeria sect head 'dead'
Lawmakers Urge U.K. Government to Stick to Rail Franchise Deals
A panel of lawmakers urged the U.K. government not to give in to pressure from rail companies to renegotiate their franchises after National Express Group Plc walked away from one of its operations.
...
On July 1 the government was forced to nationalize the East Coast Main Line, pending the choice of a new operator. The cross-party committee suggested keeping the service in public ownership and using it as a benchmark against which private franchises can be measured.
Forced to, you see. Has nothing to do with the statist takeovers sweeping the globe, oh no.
Spanish barracks hit by car bomb
Travel chaos after Mallorca car bomb kills two police officers
Two separate incidents.
Crimean Tatar Protesters Attacked In Kyiv
A Polarized Moldova Votes, Mindful of the West and Russia
Motorists to pay £250 tax for parking at work - UK
Roubini Sees Risk of ‘Double Dip’ Global Recession
U.S. Pushes for Law of the Sea Ratification as New Arctic Mapping Project Begins
Aaaarrgh!
U.S. Backs Implementing U.N. Doctrine Against Genocide
The Obama administration is supporting moves to implement a U.N. doctrine calling for collective military action to halt genocide.
The next step is to see if the countries in favor of implementing the policy will act when a new genocide is brewing if all other diplomatic actions fail. The doctrine is political, not legal: Although these countries have expressed the political will to act, they aren't legally bound to.
The U.N. just concluded a weeklong debate on implementing the doctrine, which was endorsed by U.N. members in 2005.
The U.S. joined a majority of U.N. countries, including Russia and China, in supporting implementation of the policy, called the Responsibility to Protect doctrine. It may be invoked in only four cases: genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, or crimes against humanity. Climate change, disease or natural disasters are excluded as causes for intervention.
Why am I not reassured?
G-20 groups to Pittsburgh: Nix riot gear
Yeah, just let us at you, don't protect yourself or anything.
The Grimmest Waiting List in Russia
The human rights investigators in Russia are a tiny group, so each murder leaves a hole.
Putin to discuss joint projects with GDF Suez
Putin proposes $2.4 bln VEB loan to Gazprombank
Russian version of popular Czech song mocks Putin
hee!
Russia - Prime Minister Vladimir Putin met with Natalya Solzhenitsyn
Russia signs oil pact, offers $150M credit to Cuba
Russia to drill for oil off Cuba
Venezuela, Russia Sign Energy, Military Agreements
Vietnam, Russia Ink Pact On Nuclear Energy Cooperation
Moscow Denies Plan For Chinese Market
Russia - Prime Minister Vladimir Putin visited Ingush President Yunus-Bek Yevkurov to congratulate him personally on his birthday
In the hospital. Eep.
Former Adviser To Russia's Putin Denied Entry To Lithuania
Russia's Putin to visit Turkey on August 6
Russia aims to spur Afghan region economy, win aid
Russia starts new pipeline, Exxon under pressure
Russia dismisses NATO membership suggestions
Russia's South Stream will trump Nabucco.
The central idea behind Nabucco is to counter the Russian South Stream pipeline which will run beneath the Black Sea and provide natural gas to real consumers. It is supported by the U.S. government.
Ukraine, Russia expel diplomats
Uh-oh.
Georgia Wants U.S. to Monitor Conflict
Russia Warns U.S. Against Sending Monitors to Georgia
Russia's NATO Envoy Seeks Sanctions for Selling Tbilisi Arms
Medvedev hosts Armenia, Azerbaijan peace talks
Ashgabat, Baku spar over Caspian reserves
Turkey Detains 165 Suspected Members of Radical Islamist Group Hizb ut-Tahrir
The group we just let hold a conference in Chicago.
Greece and Cyprus warn Turkey against violating airspace
Two DTP members alleged victims of village guards
Two members of the pro-Kurdish Democratic Society Party (DTP) were allegedly killed by a team of village guards in the southeastern province of Şırnak on Saturday.
Turkmenistan signs landmark gas exploration deal
Taliban men fleeing Swat to Tajikistan?
Explosions In Dushanbe Lead To IMU Concerns
Two explosions in Dushanbe have raised concerns that members of the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) may have spread to the Tajik capital, RFE/RL's Tajik Service reports.
Tajikistan: Militants Attack Outpost in Rasht Valley
Uzbekistan charges Baptist camp with crimes
Bin Laden's Son Believed Killed in U.S. Airstrike
U.S. officials believe Usama bin Laden's son, Saad bin Laden, was killed in a U.S. airstrike in Pakistan.
Now we are so happy, we do the dance of joy!
US Eyes Private Guards for Bases in Afghanistan
Pakistan Arrests Cleric Behind Deal With Taliban
Pakistan police nab ex-lawmaker over Polish killing
Kyrgyz head officially re-elected
Election officials in Kyrgyzstan announce that incumbent president Kurmanbek Bakiyev has officially won last week's controversial poll.
Kyrgyzstan - Crackdown on Protests of Election Result
The police in Kyrgyzstan’s capital, Bishkek, detained 64 opposition demonstrators on Wednesday after marches protesting the results of last week’s presidential election.
Bus blast kills 6 paramilitary soldiers in India
Kushtia UP chairman shot dead on return from AL council - Bangladesh
The human rights investigators in Russia are a tiny group, so each murder leaves a hole.
Putin to discuss joint projects with GDF Suez
Putin proposes $2.4 bln VEB loan to Gazprombank
Russian version of popular Czech song mocks Putin
hee!
Russia - Prime Minister Vladimir Putin met with Natalya Solzhenitsyn
Russia signs oil pact, offers $150M credit to Cuba
Russia to drill for oil off Cuba
Venezuela, Russia Sign Energy, Military Agreements
Vietnam, Russia Ink Pact On Nuclear Energy Cooperation
Moscow Denies Plan For Chinese Market
Russia - Prime Minister Vladimir Putin visited Ingush President Yunus-Bek Yevkurov to congratulate him personally on his birthday
In the hospital. Eep.
Former Adviser To Russia's Putin Denied Entry To Lithuania
Russia's Putin to visit Turkey on August 6
Russia aims to spur Afghan region economy, win aid
Russia starts new pipeline, Exxon under pressure
Russia dismisses NATO membership suggestions
Russia's South Stream will trump Nabucco.
The central idea behind Nabucco is to counter the Russian South Stream pipeline which will run beneath the Black Sea and provide natural gas to real consumers. It is supported by the U.S. government.
Ukraine, Russia expel diplomats
Uh-oh.
Georgia Wants U.S. to Monitor Conflict
Russia Warns U.S. Against Sending Monitors to Georgia
Russia's NATO Envoy Seeks Sanctions for Selling Tbilisi Arms
Medvedev hosts Armenia, Azerbaijan peace talks
Ashgabat, Baku spar over Caspian reserves
Turkey Detains 165 Suspected Members of Radical Islamist Group Hizb ut-Tahrir
The group we just let hold a conference in Chicago.
Greece and Cyprus warn Turkey against violating airspace
Two DTP members alleged victims of village guards
Two members of the pro-Kurdish Democratic Society Party (DTP) were allegedly killed by a team of village guards in the southeastern province of Şırnak on Saturday.
Turkmenistan signs landmark gas exploration deal
Taliban men fleeing Swat to Tajikistan?
Explosions In Dushanbe Lead To IMU Concerns
Two explosions in Dushanbe have raised concerns that members of the Islamic Movement of Uzbekistan (IMU) may have spread to the Tajik capital, RFE/RL's Tajik Service reports.
Tajikistan: Militants Attack Outpost in Rasht Valley
Uzbekistan charges Baptist camp with crimes
Bin Laden's Son Believed Killed in U.S. Airstrike
U.S. officials believe Usama bin Laden's son, Saad bin Laden, was killed in a U.S. airstrike in Pakistan.
Now we are so happy, we do the dance of joy!
US Eyes Private Guards for Bases in Afghanistan
Pakistan Arrests Cleric Behind Deal With Taliban
Pakistan police nab ex-lawmaker over Polish killing
Kyrgyz head officially re-elected
Election officials in Kyrgyzstan announce that incumbent president Kurmanbek Bakiyev has officially won last week's controversial poll.
Kyrgyzstan - Crackdown on Protests of Election Result
The police in Kyrgyzstan’s capital, Bishkek, detained 64 opposition demonstrators on Wednesday after marches protesting the results of last week’s presidential election.
Bus blast kills 6 paramilitary soldiers in India
Kushtia UP chairman shot dead on return from AL council - Bangladesh
Horrific Stories of Iranian Militia Tell of Murders, Stonings
West must close Iran nuclear file: new atomic chief
Clinton outlines how U.S. might deal with nuclear Iran
We've already conceded.
Fight or flight? Many Head Out – Tehran
Report: Iran's Mousavi Says Protests Will Continue
Iran's opposition leader said on Monday that the protest movement which has swamped Iran since the country's disputed presidential elections in June will continue, saying the government crackdown on protesters will only increase the size of his movement.
Iran opposition rallies on complaints of torture, deaths in detention
Iran 'essential player' in Middle East peace: Brazil FM
Well. Isn't that comforting?
Court finds Iran minister guilty of fraud
Wanted: Unused USB Thumb Drives for Iran
California cyberactivist wants to smuggle censor-evading software into country.
Ahmadinejad battles new Iran crisis
Iran to open naval bases in the Sea of Oman
Iran approves $280 million loan for Bolivia
Iran protesters 'to face trial'
Reports: 50 'political figures' among Iranian detainees
Her name was Neda.
Iranian Police Clash With Demonstrators at Graveside Rally
Iranian security forces clashed with thousands of demonstrators across Tehran and struggled to maintain control Thursday after opposition leader Mir Hussein Mousavi was prevented from visiting the graves of those killed in protests last month, including 27-year-old Neda Agha Soltan, whose final moments were filmed and broadcast around the world.
The clashes were escalating Thursday evening as police fired tear gas and attacked protesters with batons in a bid to break up the demonstrations. But the protesters were fighting back, battling security forces in the streets. In one case, three members of the much feared voluntary militia known as the Basij were beaten with their own batons after a group of people pulled them off their motorcycles near a park. The motorcycles were set on fire.
Neda's Mother: 'I Asked Her Not To Go'
40th memorial day of the killing of Neda in Tehran
Amman begins stripping state's Palestinians of citizenship
I'm sure it's Israel's fault, somehow.
Summer Heats Up in Lebanon
After a brief postelection respite, tensions in Lebanon are on the rise. Despite reports that prime-minister-designate Saad Hariri is making progress toward forming a government, Hizballah and Syrian-generated pressures are complicating the already difficult task, raising the specter that March 14 will fail to consolidate the gains of its impressive June 7 election victory.
Gates meets Jordan king amid US peace push
*retch*
Arab human rights group barred for year by U.N.
We can't have anyone criticizing the countries of the religion of peace, now, can we?
Iran exiles 'killed in Iraq raid'
Seven Iranian dissidents have been killed during a raid by Iraqi security forces on their camp north of Baghdad, Iraqi police have said.
Iraq says raid on militant group's camp wasn't Iran's idea
The Iraqi government Wednesday rejected suggestions that Iranian pressure had prompted a raid on a camp belonging to an Iranian opposition group, saying that Iraqi security forces were merely seeking to extend sovereignty over all Iraqi territory.
I'm sure.
Saudis scramble to stop Hajj swine flu crisis
Enjoy your pig flu, hajjis!
West must close Iran nuclear file: new atomic chief
Clinton outlines how U.S. might deal with nuclear Iran
We've already conceded.
Fight or flight? Many Head Out – Tehran
Report: Iran's Mousavi Says Protests Will Continue
Iran's opposition leader said on Monday that the protest movement which has swamped Iran since the country's disputed presidential elections in June will continue, saying the government crackdown on protesters will only increase the size of his movement.
Iran opposition rallies on complaints of torture, deaths in detention
Iran 'essential player' in Middle East peace: Brazil FM
Well. Isn't that comforting?
Court finds Iran minister guilty of fraud
Wanted: Unused USB Thumb Drives for Iran
California cyberactivist wants to smuggle censor-evading software into country.
Ahmadinejad battles new Iran crisis
Iran to open naval bases in the Sea of Oman
Iran approves $280 million loan for Bolivia
Iran protesters 'to face trial'
Reports: 50 'political figures' among Iranian detainees
Her name was Neda.
Iranian Police Clash With Demonstrators at Graveside Rally
Iranian security forces clashed with thousands of demonstrators across Tehran and struggled to maintain control Thursday after opposition leader Mir Hussein Mousavi was prevented from visiting the graves of those killed in protests last month, including 27-year-old Neda Agha Soltan, whose final moments were filmed and broadcast around the world.
The clashes were escalating Thursday evening as police fired tear gas and attacked protesters with batons in a bid to break up the demonstrations. But the protesters were fighting back, battling security forces in the streets. In one case, three members of the much feared voluntary militia known as the Basij were beaten with their own batons after a group of people pulled them off their motorcycles near a park. The motorcycles were set on fire.
Neda's Mother: 'I Asked Her Not To Go'
40th memorial day of the killing of Neda in Tehran
Amman begins stripping state's Palestinians of citizenship
I'm sure it's Israel's fault, somehow.
Summer Heats Up in Lebanon
After a brief postelection respite, tensions in Lebanon are on the rise. Despite reports that prime-minister-designate Saad Hariri is making progress toward forming a government, Hizballah and Syrian-generated pressures are complicating the already difficult task, raising the specter that March 14 will fail to consolidate the gains of its impressive June 7 election victory.
Gates meets Jordan king amid US peace push
*retch*
Arab human rights group barred for year by U.N.
We can't have anyone criticizing the countries of the religion of peace, now, can we?
Iran exiles 'killed in Iraq raid'
Seven Iranian dissidents have been killed during a raid by Iraqi security forces on their camp north of Baghdad, Iraqi police have said.
Iraq says raid on militant group's camp wasn't Iran's idea
The Iraqi government Wednesday rejected suggestions that Iranian pressure had prompted a raid on a camp belonging to an Iranian opposition group, saying that Iraqi security forces were merely seeking to extend sovereignty over all Iraqi territory.
I'm sure.
Saudis scramble to stop Hajj swine flu crisis
Enjoy your pig flu, hajjis!
Temple Institute to Build Sacrificial Altar on Tisha B'av
The Temple Institute will begin building the sacrificial altar on Thursday, Tisha B’av, a fast day when Jews mourn the destruction of the Temple some 2,000 years ago.
...
The Temple Institute, which has already built many of the vessels for the Holy Temple, such as the ark and the menorah, has now embarked on a project to build the altar. Construction begins Thursday in Mitzpe Yericho (east of Jerusalem) at 5:30 p.m.
“Unfortunately, we cannot currently build the altar in its proper place, on the Temple Mount,” Temple Institute director Yehudah Glick said. “We are building an altar of the minimum possible size so that we will be able to transport it to the Temple when it is rebuilt."
***
PM rejects US demand to halt Jerusalem housing project
After US demands halt to e. J'lem housing project, PM aides reportedly say Obama "crossed red line."
Qatar Sheikh Funds Hamas to Buy Jerusalem Buildings
'US settlement policy contravenes Torah'
Israel may confiscate more Palestinian land
You mean take back more of its own land?
US: Construction in east Jerusalem will hurt peace process
"Peace process" my rear end. The US want's Israel to roll over and give up.
Palestinian PM urges US to draft Mideast peace plan
GAH!
Lebanon boosts forces near Israel border, fearing IDF fire
Romania: Israeli physicians arrested on suspicion of egg trafficking
News: Father, son who run Sabyc Fertility Clinic in Bucharest arrested for allegedly trafficking in human eggs, stem cells; both remanded for 29 days. Romanian authorities order two other Israeli doctors not to leave country, confiscate passports of five other Israelis involved.
Israel on Iran: Anything it takes to stop nukes
Israel hardened its insistence Monday that it would do anything it felt necessary to stop Iran from getting a nuclear bomb, just the ultimatum the United States hoped not to hear as it tried to nudge Iran to the bargaining table.
I feel that vein in my forehead beginning to throb...
Rabbi Ovadia slams US: We're not their slaves
Jewish Scene: In his weekly sermon Shas' spiritual leader protests US pressure on Israel to halt settlement construction, says 'Messiah will throw them out'
Go Rabbi!
Report: Hezbollah Leader Threatens Tel Aviv Strike
Hezbollah's leader was quoted by two Lebanese newspapers Monday as warning that his Iranian-backed militants will strike Israel's largest city of Tel Aviv with missiles from Lebanon
Hizbullah turns up the temperature in North
Feeling internal pressure, the group has sought once again to cast itself as the force of 'resistance' in Lebanon.
John Bolton: It’s Crunch Time for Israel on Iran
Go! Go, Johnny Go!
West Bank Settlers Send Obama Defiant Message
Several thousand Jewish settlers inaugurated outposts in a show of defiance as emissaries from the U.S. visited.
Mwahahaahaha!
Telling Israel No - Obama's Bold Move
Bold, my ass. Plotting the final solution is always popular.
The Temple Institute will begin building the sacrificial altar on Thursday, Tisha B’av, a fast day when Jews mourn the destruction of the Temple some 2,000 years ago.
...
The Temple Institute, which has already built many of the vessels for the Holy Temple, such as the ark and the menorah, has now embarked on a project to build the altar. Construction begins Thursday in Mitzpe Yericho (east of Jerusalem) at 5:30 p.m.
“Unfortunately, we cannot currently build the altar in its proper place, on the Temple Mount,” Temple Institute director Yehudah Glick said. “We are building an altar of the minimum possible size so that we will be able to transport it to the Temple when it is rebuilt."
***
PM rejects US demand to halt Jerusalem housing project
After US demands halt to e. J'lem housing project, PM aides reportedly say Obama "crossed red line."
Qatar Sheikh Funds Hamas to Buy Jerusalem Buildings
'US settlement policy contravenes Torah'
Israel may confiscate more Palestinian land
You mean take back more of its own land?
US: Construction in east Jerusalem will hurt peace process
"Peace process" my rear end. The US want's Israel to roll over and give up.
Palestinian PM urges US to draft Mideast peace plan
GAH!
Lebanon boosts forces near Israel border, fearing IDF fire
Romania: Israeli physicians arrested on suspicion of egg trafficking
News: Father, son who run Sabyc Fertility Clinic in Bucharest arrested for allegedly trafficking in human eggs, stem cells; both remanded for 29 days. Romanian authorities order two other Israeli doctors not to leave country, confiscate passports of five other Israelis involved.
Israel on Iran: Anything it takes to stop nukes
Israel hardened its insistence Monday that it would do anything it felt necessary to stop Iran from getting a nuclear bomb, just the ultimatum the United States hoped not to hear as it tried to nudge Iran to the bargaining table.
I feel that vein in my forehead beginning to throb...
Rabbi Ovadia slams US: We're not their slaves
Jewish Scene: In his weekly sermon Shas' spiritual leader protests US pressure on Israel to halt settlement construction, says 'Messiah will throw them out'
Go Rabbi!
Report: Hezbollah Leader Threatens Tel Aviv Strike
Hezbollah's leader was quoted by two Lebanese newspapers Monday as warning that his Iranian-backed militants will strike Israel's largest city of Tel Aviv with missiles from Lebanon
Hizbullah turns up the temperature in North
Feeling internal pressure, the group has sought once again to cast itself as the force of 'resistance' in Lebanon.
John Bolton: It’s Crunch Time for Israel on Iran
Go! Go, Johnny Go!
West Bank Settlers Send Obama Defiant Message
Several thousand Jewish settlers inaugurated outposts in a show of defiance as emissaries from the U.S. visited.
Mwahahaahaha!
Telling Israel No - Obama's Bold Move
Bold, my ass. Plotting the final solution is always popular.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Full solar eclipse turns day to night in Asia
‘Magical’ total eclipse of the sun wows viewers
Two killed in stampede during eclipse in India
Wall 'could stop desert spread'
The growing environmental threat of desertification could be stopped in Africa by solidifying dunes using bacteria.
Spain - Expats describe 'volcano of fire'
Hundreds of British expatriates have been evacuated from homes and hotels in south-east Spain as wildfires spread.
Texas Drought Takes Toll on Farmers
In Texas, drought means conserving every last drop
Central Texas drought grows more severe
As waters recede, drought reveals lake relics
How green was my valley: California's drought
Cash-strapped California's budget breakthrough this week is anything but good news for farmers in the fabled San Joaquin Valley.
Drought, budget cuts raise worries about wildfires
Huge tunnel to be built under San Francisco Bay
To bring in more water in the event of an earthquake. Don't ask me how they're sure it'll survive an earthquake.
Fla. Senators Encourage Hurricane Research Funding
Look, if y'all want more money for hurricane preparedness, spend it on infrastructure for evacuating.
Scotland - Mini tornado wreaks havoc on isle
A number of cars and homes are damaged by a mini tornado which hit Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis.
Seattle breaks temp record as heat wave continues
Northwesterners more accustomed to rain and cooler climate sought refuge from a heat wave on Wednesday, as Seattle recorded the hottest temperature in its history and Portland edged closer to its own record-breaker.
The National Weather Service in Seattle recorded 102 degrees by midday at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, breaking a previous record of 100 degrees, set in downtown Seattle in 1941 and repeated at the airport in 1994.
Jay Albrecht, a meteorologist with the service, said it's the hottest it has been in Seattle since records dating to 1891.
U.S. Northwest Feels the Burn of Extreme Heat Wave
Record Heat, Surprise Tornadoes: Wild Weather From Coast To Coast
Floods, landslides kill dozens in China
Afghanistan prepares itself to resist deadly plant plague that threatens food security in region
Ug99.
How Amazon's remote deletion of e-books from the Kindle paves the way for book-banning's digital future.
Hutterites consider leaving Alberta after losing court battle
The case involved the Alberta government and two colonies of Hutterites, who believe the Second Commandment's ban on "graven images" prohibits having their photos taken willingly. Supported by 14 other Hutterite communities in Alberta, the colonies sued the province for infringing on their religious freedom when it made driver's licence photos mandatory.
But after Hutterite victories in two previous court cases, the Supreme Court decided in favour of the province.
...
The Hutterites argued that their communal lifestyle would be threatened if they were unable to get driver's licences, while the province said the universal photo requirement would minimize identity theft and help build a facial recognition databank.
Microsoft/ESRI app boosts GIS data sharing at Mass. fusion center
To simplify matters, Microsoft and ESRI have created FusionX, an appliance preloaded with ESRI GIS data and software together with SharePoint and other applications to integrate fusion center operations. Microsoft worked with several agencies to develop the requirements for FusionX, including the Massachusetts center and the Illinois Statewide Terrorism Intelligence Center.
HR group blasts Interior Ministry's biometric ID legislation - Israel
Mexico to launch new biometric ID card program to fight corruption
We cannot afford to pass on secure identity documents
Secure state-issued identity documents can also obviate any need for a much more controversial national ID, whether in the form of an enhanced Social Security card or a similar worker identity credential favored by some members of Congress, including Sen. Charles Schumer, D-NY, who recently proposed this during discussion of immigration reform. That rightly strikes many as a true national ID including a centralized database and is sure to further complicate passage of immigration reform. Done right, securely issued state identity documents can serve much the same purpose without the same privacy concerns. A biometric Social Security card would cost somewhere in the neighborhood of $10 billion. The cost for Real ID is estimated at $4 billion. The biometric Social Security card would serve one purpose, to establish eligibility to work in the United States. Done properly, the Real ID can be used toward that task as well as others.
Biometric checks on the way for all US workers?
New York Senator Charles Schumer wants to introduce a new bill before the end of September that would force all American workers to prove they are eligible to work in the United States with biometric technology.
Schumer stated that the bill will require businesses to not only validate Social Security numbers but also to run fingerprints through the system using an E-verify system that contains a biometric identifier.
Lawmaker to introduce bill to require biometric verification of workers
Rep. Luis Gutierrez, D-Ill., testifying as a member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, expressed his support for the biometric system. "As Congress examines biometrics as part of a new and better system, I want to encourage you to ignore the naysayers, those who claim this can't be done," he said. "Incorporating an effective employment verification system is our only hope for truly ending illegal immigration."
Michigan Prevails in "Mark of the Beast" Lawsuit
A federal court has ruled in favor of the state of Michigan and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in a case alleging that rules requiring farmers to tag their livestock for identification in order to help identify and prevent the spread of disease violated the religious liberty of farmers who think such tags constitute the "mark of the beast."
My take: Their theology's wacky, but the precedent gives me the heebie-jeebies. No conscience clause exceptions for states. Yikes.
Pentagon blasts computer contractor
Pentagon investigators have discovered that one of its contractors failed to provide adequate computer security for a military health services operation.
Microsoft, Yahoo! agree on Internet search partnership
Microsoft Corp. has finally roped Yahoo Inc. into an Internet search partnership, capping a convoluted pursuit that dragged on for years and setting the stage for them to make a joint assault against the dominance of Google Inc.
Robot attacked Swedish factory worker
A Swedish company has been fined 25,000 kronor ($3,000) after a malfunctioning robot attacked and almost killed one of its workers at a factory north of Stockholm.
Skynet is most pleased!
‘Magical’ total eclipse of the sun wows viewers
Two killed in stampede during eclipse in India
Wall 'could stop desert spread'
The growing environmental threat of desertification could be stopped in Africa by solidifying dunes using bacteria.
Spain - Expats describe 'volcano of fire'
Hundreds of British expatriates have been evacuated from homes and hotels in south-east Spain as wildfires spread.
Texas Drought Takes Toll on Farmers
In Texas, drought means conserving every last drop
Central Texas drought grows more severe
As waters recede, drought reveals lake relics
How green was my valley: California's drought
Cash-strapped California's budget breakthrough this week is anything but good news for farmers in the fabled San Joaquin Valley.
Drought, budget cuts raise worries about wildfires
Huge tunnel to be built under San Francisco Bay
To bring in more water in the event of an earthquake. Don't ask me how they're sure it'll survive an earthquake.
Fla. Senators Encourage Hurricane Research Funding
Look, if y'all want more money for hurricane preparedness, spend it on infrastructure for evacuating.
Scotland - Mini tornado wreaks havoc on isle
A number of cars and homes are damaged by a mini tornado which hit Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis.
Seattle breaks temp record as heat wave continues
Northwesterners more accustomed to rain and cooler climate sought refuge from a heat wave on Wednesday, as Seattle recorded the hottest temperature in its history and Portland edged closer to its own record-breaker.
The National Weather Service in Seattle recorded 102 degrees by midday at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, breaking a previous record of 100 degrees, set in downtown Seattle in 1941 and repeated at the airport in 1994.
Jay Albrecht, a meteorologist with the service, said it's the hottest it has been in Seattle since records dating to 1891.
U.S. Northwest Feels the Burn of Extreme Heat Wave
Record Heat, Surprise Tornadoes: Wild Weather From Coast To Coast
Floods, landslides kill dozens in China
Afghanistan prepares itself to resist deadly plant plague that threatens food security in region
Ug99.
How Amazon's remote deletion of e-books from the Kindle paves the way for book-banning's digital future.
Hutterites consider leaving Alberta after losing court battle
The case involved the Alberta government and two colonies of Hutterites, who believe the Second Commandment's ban on "graven images" prohibits having their photos taken willingly. Supported by 14 other Hutterite communities in Alberta, the colonies sued the province for infringing on their religious freedom when it made driver's licence photos mandatory.
But after Hutterite victories in two previous court cases, the Supreme Court decided in favour of the province.
...
The Hutterites argued that their communal lifestyle would be threatened if they were unable to get driver's licences, while the province said the universal photo requirement would minimize identity theft and help build a facial recognition databank.
Microsoft/ESRI app boosts GIS data sharing at Mass. fusion center
To simplify matters, Microsoft and ESRI have created FusionX, an appliance preloaded with ESRI GIS data and software together with SharePoint and other applications to integrate fusion center operations. Microsoft worked with several agencies to develop the requirements for FusionX, including the Massachusetts center and the Illinois Statewide Terrorism Intelligence Center.
HR group blasts Interior Ministry's biometric ID legislation - Israel
Mexico to launch new biometric ID card program to fight corruption
We cannot afford to pass on secure identity documents
Secure state-issued identity documents can also obviate any need for a much more controversial national ID, whether in the form of an enhanced Social Security card or a similar worker identity credential favored by some members of Congress, including Sen. Charles Schumer, D-NY, who recently proposed this during discussion of immigration reform. That rightly strikes many as a true national ID including a centralized database and is sure to further complicate passage of immigration reform. Done right, securely issued state identity documents can serve much the same purpose without the same privacy concerns. A biometric Social Security card would cost somewhere in the neighborhood of $10 billion. The cost for Real ID is estimated at $4 billion. The biometric Social Security card would serve one purpose, to establish eligibility to work in the United States. Done properly, the Real ID can be used toward that task as well as others.
Biometric checks on the way for all US workers?
New York Senator Charles Schumer wants to introduce a new bill before the end of September that would force all American workers to prove they are eligible to work in the United States with biometric technology.
Schumer stated that the bill will require businesses to not only validate Social Security numbers but also to run fingerprints through the system using an E-verify system that contains a biometric identifier.
Lawmaker to introduce bill to require biometric verification of workers
Rep. Luis Gutierrez, D-Ill., testifying as a member of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, expressed his support for the biometric system. "As Congress examines biometrics as part of a new and better system, I want to encourage you to ignore the naysayers, those who claim this can't be done," he said. "Incorporating an effective employment verification system is our only hope for truly ending illegal immigration."
Michigan Prevails in "Mark of the Beast" Lawsuit
A federal court has ruled in favor of the state of Michigan and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in a case alleging that rules requiring farmers to tag their livestock for identification in order to help identify and prevent the spread of disease violated the religious liberty of farmers who think such tags constitute the "mark of the beast."
My take: Their theology's wacky, but the precedent gives me the heebie-jeebies. No conscience clause exceptions for states. Yikes.
Pentagon blasts computer contractor
Pentagon investigators have discovered that one of its contractors failed to provide adequate computer security for a military health services operation.
Microsoft, Yahoo! agree on Internet search partnership
Microsoft Corp. has finally roped Yahoo Inc. into an Internet search partnership, capping a convoluted pursuit that dragged on for years and setting the stage for them to make a joint assault against the dominance of Google Inc.
Robot attacked Swedish factory worker
A Swedish company has been fined 25,000 kronor ($3,000) after a malfunctioning robot attacked and almost killed one of its workers at a factory north of Stockholm.
Skynet is most pleased!
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