Adding to Bush's legacy, as noted in this week's Bits and Pieces, is this story from IRIN:

BAGHDAD, 31 July (IRIN) - Housekeeper and mother of three Anisah Kaseb, 58, says the relentless violence in Iraq has damaged her family psychologically: Her younger son committed suicide and her daughter now requires psychological help. Widowed and dependent on her deceased husband's pension, Kaseb tries to make some extra money by cooking for marriage parties or washing laundry at home. Her plight has worsened of late. "My son Muhammad, who was only 28 years old, was desperate: He had no job for the past two years and couldn't marry because we didn't have enough money. He was out on the streets one day looking for a job when a car bomb exploded near him. The incident affected him badly and he committed suicide, leaving us a letter saying that he couldn't bear life in Iraq any more and felt useless because he could not help his family economically. "It was the most terrible day in my life. He killed himself on the day of his sister's birthday on 14 May and since than my daughter Alia'a, 32, has tried to commit suicide twice, firstly by cutting her wrists and then by jumping in front of a car - which left her with a broken leg that required hours of surgery. "The violence pushed my son to suicide, and sometimes I think that if Alia'a kills herself, I would rather die too. I don't have any other person to live for as my eldest daughter, Juan, is married and lives in Syria with her husband. "I thought many times of taking poison after my son died, and I prayed to God for hours to dispel these thoughts. "My sister-in-law got desperate after my brother was killed in an explosion: She poisoned her two children and then herself, leaving a letter saying she wasn't able to support them and that she would rather they all died together than see them killed like her husband. "People in Iraq are living in constant fear of violence, unemployment, hunger and displacement. We are tired and many aren't able to flee the country and, like my son, end their lives."

Every one of you reading this is partly responsible for this family's plight.

Do something.

A new, despicable health insurance scam:

Insurance Companies Using Fake Grassroots Effort A group backed by big insurance companies has undertaken a new effort to scare seniors, whose traditional Medicare plans they are undercutting, into helping it protect huge insurance company profits received from expensive MA plans. America’s Health Insurance Plans (AHIP), a major lobbying group for big insurance, has developed a television ad campaign and “Six-Point Medicare Advantage Mobilization Plan” to convince seniors to fight upcoming legislation on MA on the corporations’ behalf. They plan to bring seniors to Washington, D.C. to meet with Members of Congress, and will send automated calls to all participants encouraging them to contact their legislators and oppose cuts to MA. The plan calls for insurance company staff to call their beneficiaries, using “personal relationships” to spur action from seniors. “To use insurance agents and the trust seniors have placed in them in an overtly political manner is deceptive and despicable,” said Ruben Burks, Secretary-Treasurer of the Alliance.

Iraq Wins Asian Cup

What an inspiring victory...for a country that is short on victory's lately.

JAKARTA, Indonesia - Iraq won the Asian Cup for the first time Sunday, a beacon of hope for a nation divided by war. Iraq's 1-0 victory over Saudi Arabia on a 71st-minute header by captain Younis Mahmoud was an inspirational triumph for a team whose players straddle bitter and violent ethnic divides. After the game, Mahmoud called for the United States to withdraw its troops from his nation. "I want America to go out," he said. "Today, tomorrow, or the day after tomorrow, but out. I wish the American people didn't invade Iraq and, hopefully, it will be over soon." Mahmoud also said he will not return to Iraq to celebrate. "I don't want the Iraqi people to be angry with me," he said. "If I go back with the team, anybody could kill me or try to hurt me." Iraq, whose only World Cup appearance was in 1986, dominated the Saudis, three-time Asian Cup champions. Iraq joins the United States, Brazil, Italy and host South Africa at the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup along with the champions of Europe, Africa and Oceania. Elation was juxtaposed against the tragedy in the players' homeland. Coach Jorvan Vieira and Mahmoud wore black armbands during the postgame news conference to commemorate the dozens of fans killed back home during celebrations following Wednesday's semifinal victory over South Korea. "It's very clear, from our arms, our respect to the people who died when we put Korea out of the competition," Vieira said. "This victory we offer to the families of those people." Vieira, who is Brazilian, resigned after the game. "I have worked my best to give happiness to the Iraqi people, to bring a warm smile to their lips and my mission is accomplished," Vieira said. "The satisfaction is doubled when you can get this cup and you bring happiness for a country, not just a team. It's more important than anything." Mahmoud, who plays for Al Gharafa in Qatar, scored his fourth goal of the tournament when he met Hawar Mulla Mohammed's corner kick at the far post. Goalkeeper Yaser Al Mosailem went or the ball but didn't get it, presenting an easy chance for an unmarked Mahmoud. At the final whistle, Mahmoud sprinted across the field with his elated teammates in pursuit before they collapsed into a pile, overwhelmed with their achievement. Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki's office announced that each Iraqi player will receive $10,000. About 3,000 Iraqi refugees celebrated in Damascus, Syria. In Dearborn, Mich., Iraqi-Americans gathered in the streets, honking horns, sitting on car roofs and waving flags. Jubilation over the team known as the "Lions of the Two Rivers" gave Iraqis a rare respite from the daily violence. The victorious run sent men of all ages cheering and dancing in Baghdad. Celebratory gunfire resounded across the city and revelers poured into the streets in defiance of orders from authorities while mosques broadcast calls for the shooting to stop. Security forces enforced a vehicle ban in an effort to prevent a repeat of car bombings that killed dozens celebrating Iraq's progress to the final. "The players have made us proud, not the greedy politicians," said Sabah Shaiyal, a 43-year-old police officer in Baghdad. "Once again, our national team has shown that there is only one, united Iraq."

Congratulations Iraq, on a great sports win!

Los Lonely Boys - Heaven

Bits and Pieces for the Week of July 22 - 28

Electricity in Iraq? What electricity in Iraq? Crocker told CBS News this month that electricity was "more important to the average Iraqi than all 18 benchmarks rolled up into one." Imagine that!? (7 of 6)

The Dow and Standard & Poor's 500 index has the worst week in five years. Is this a harbinger of things to come? Or is a $526.1 billion loss on Thursday and Friday of shareholder wealth from the S&P just normal? (7 of 6)

Aquafina bottled water, made by PepsiCo, admits to being tap water. How hard would it be to run a public water source through huge activated carbon filters, then Reverse Osmosis and have really clean bottled water? Being on well water, my main concern is excessive MCL (Maximum Contaminate Levels) of nitrates and nitrites, among other organics and inorganics. (7 of 6)

I'm finding it harder and harder not to schill for John Edwards, especially after his outstanding speech on creating tax breaks for the middle class. (7 of 6)

If I was a General about to be censured, I'd be really pissed that the White House is citing executive priviledge and keeping documents secret that could shed light on who else is guilty. Rummy, turdblossom, cheney...oh fuck it, the usual suspects!! (7 of 6)

Young cannabis users have a greater risk of developing psychotic problems in the future. (7 of 6)

8 more U.S. troops die in Iraq. Oh yeah, bu$h wants congress to pass the "Defense Department spending bill for the 2008 budget year, including money for the war in Iraq, which is costing Americans about $10 billion a month". (7 of 6)

At least the "Senate Slumber Party" woke up the media last week. The Dems still have to hammer home the case for a simple, Up or Down - Yes or No - Majority Vote. I don't think the public fully understands the Republi-con Obstruction. (7 of 6)

"People of middle age who drank as little as one soda a day - diet or regular - had at least a 40 percent greater chance of developing risk factors for heart disease than abstainers." (Mike)

If I had a rap sheet like Cindy Sheehan's, I'd frame it. (Mike)

TPM has a great 11-minute video recap of last night's debate. (Mike)

US - Iran have heated exchange. Did anyone expect anything different from our State department! (7 of 6)

You can count on the Bush Administration to beat you when you're down (Mike)

Turkey's ruling party claims win, while Murat Karayilan, the leader of the Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, is ready for a Turkish invasion. Time to earn your money Condi. (7 of 6)

Tired of being scared of your government? Then don't read this. (Mike)

FRIDAY F U N

• Press the "Now" button and see how quickly things happen
• Poorly placed ads
• America in the 1930's - fascinating look at the major events and culture
  
• Ask a philosopher any question you want and get a real answer
• Classic "priceless" video
  
• Believe it or not, squares A and B are the same color
• For god's sake, would someone please install seat belts on the Starship Enterprise
  
• Incredible, flexible girl
• Periodic Table of the... Internet
• If you grew up using slide rules, here's an online one
  
• The Fallacy Family

!PROGRESS!

The House passes HR 2929, 399 - 24

It is the policy of the United States not to establish any military installation or base for the purpose of providing for the permanent stationing of United States Armed Forces in Iraq and not to exercise United States control of the oil resources of Iraq.

Another Republi-con Obstructionist

Coming on the heels of the Dole/Shalala Commision, where they recommend, "...the experiences of these young men and women have highlighted the need for fundamental changes in care management and the disability system."

Larry Scott, at VA Watchdog dot Org summarizes Sen. Larry Craig's warning "that mandatory (Vetarans Administration) funding will not solve the long-term funding needs of that agency".

I'd like to add that until the Democrats took over Congress, Craig was Chairman of the Senate VA Committee. His comments ooze with hypocrisy. As chairman, he was instrumental in placing the VA in the current financial and healthcare crisis. Craig has allowed for the minimal basic requirements for the Veteran. It has always been politics as usual for him. He has constantly put the bu$h administration's needs first.

Now Craig is advocating NOT spending the money for Veteran's. All I have to say is, you owe us!

Sen. Larry Craig on Mandatory VA Funding: We Don't Want To Spend The Money -- Craig disses veterans by comparing VA spending to Medicaid, Medicare and Social Security. Sen. Larry Craig (R-ID), Ranking Minority Member on the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs, is at it again. Craig continues to argue AGAINST mandatory funding for VA healthcare. His arguments are ridiculous and show contempt for veterans and their service. Craig tries to compare VA spending to Medicaid (a welfare program), Medicare (an insurance program) and Social Security (another insurance program.) There is no comparison! And, Craig basically says he doesn't want to spend the money on veterans. Craig speaks of controlling the federal budget. He speaks of a "cap" on spending. Well, Senator Craig, there is no "cap" on war spending! And, there is no "cap" on the number of wounded who come back from our wars! For excellent arguments FOR mandatory VA funding...go here... And, for more on mandatory VA funding, use the VA Watchdog search engine...click here... Craig press release here...

UPDATE:

Bush also praised Bob Woodruff of ABC News, who was nearly killed by a roadside bomb in Iraq last year. "We're glad you're with us, Bob," Bush said. "Congratulations on the will to recover." When Woodruff asked Bush whether the government was moving fast enough to help families, the president declined to answer. White House press secretary Tony Snow said that Bush would not be acting immediately on any of the recommendations.

Luckovich

"....The Democratic leadership in Congress is playing a risky game of pretending to be the party of peace without actually pursuing the budget-cutting measures that would force an end to the war. "While this opportunistic strategy may produce a temporary political advantage, it will be of slight comfort to the families of American soldiers killed and maimed in Iraq over the next 18 months, not to mention the hundreds of thousands of future Iraqi victims. Nor will it con a public that has turned solidly against this war and is determined to hold politicians responsible for ending it." - - - Robert Scheer

Bumper Sticker

So True, So True

Posted by Jim Marcinkowski at "NO QUARTER" SECRET/NOFORN/NOMORONS/NOREPUBS/NOPOLITOCOS/NOHACKS TO: CIA STATIONS WORLDWIDE FM: LEGAL COUNSEL – LANGLEY, VIRGINIA RE: DISMISSAL OF WILSON/PLAME DISCLOSURE CASE – SUMMARY REF: Valerie Plame Wilson et al v. I. Lewis Libby, et al. As you are no doubt aware, last week Judge John D. Bates of the federal district court in WDC dismissed the Wilson case. While you operate overseas in a cover capacity and risk your life and that of your family members in various Third World “armpits” around the globe, please know that we here in WDC are fighting for you. Our battle here in Washington is with a White House that thinks it is above the law and a federal bureaucracy and national media that backs them up. None of the key players in Office of the President or Vice President have any clandestine experience. In fact, hardly any have even a military background. We make this point to make sure you are aware of what we here are up against. Simply put, we are under attack from all quarters from very effective morons that can’t get their arms around the covert intelligence collection process. The examples are endless. We all know that we were right on with our assessments on Iraq, yet those portions of our product that contradicted White House policy were suppressed and the facially supportive sections declassified and released to the public. The Bozos trying to play spy at the Pentagon, like Doug Feith, were allowed to get away with the largest swindle of American public opinion we can remember. And we have recently been confronted by another “useful idiot” of the conservative right-wing nuts, Rowan Scarborough and his book “America’s Enemies Within the CIA,” who questions our patriotism. It is not a good day to risk your life for our country. But you probably already know that. And you have more than a full understanding of the countless misperceptions of our work. After all, many of you have lived these events, not from the comfort of your living room in the good ole US of A. But you are as resilient as you are committed to this country and therefore can take yet another blow from your own government. First Amendment? No. Equal Protection? No. Due Process? No. Now some of you may interpret this as a CIA undercover officer having no more rights than the detainees of Guantanamo and other facilities. That is absolutely not the case. Let me make a number of clear distinctions as to why this is not so... ...(If any portion of this message appears garbled please see your systems administrator). It’s been repeated throughout history that laws are like a spiders’ web, which may catch small mosquitoes but lets wasps and hornets break through. This is nothing new and these times will pass. Finally, let’s redouble our efforts in our fight to protect this country and the cherished constitutional principles upon which it was founded. Good luck and God speed. FIELD RECOMMENDATION NOTE: WHILE THE REPUBLICANS CONTROL THE WHITE HOUSE, KEEP TWO HANDS OVER IT. SECRET/NOFORN/NOMORONS/NOREPUBS/NOPOLITOCOS/NOHACKS

Go to the link, the rest is funny as hell!

John Edwards just raised the bar on entertaining but effective campaign ads.

In case you haven't seen this yet:

Bits and Pieces for the Week of July 15 - 21

Oops. Jet Blue just fell off my list of favorite companies. (Mike)

September means November to Lt. Gen. Raymond Odierno in Iraq. (7 of 6)

The headlines just write themselves. " (FEMA) since early 2006 has suppressed warnings from its own field workers about health problems experienced by hurricane victims living in government-provided trailers with levels of a toxic chemical 75 times the recommended maximum for U.S. workers..." (7 of 6)

Unless an FBI agent trails you 24/7 holding a recorder next to your mouth, I don't think wiretapping can get any worse than this: Your cell phone can be remotely programmed to act as a bug even when turned off. (Mike)

A very wet solution to the Sudan/Darfur crisis? Let's hope so.... (Mike)

Well, that didn't take long...Hamas rejects bu$h'$ proposal for a Mideast peace conference, denouncing it Monday as nothing but lies, while Syria said it fears the offer is "just words." Ya think? (7 of 6)

So it turns out that many of the people Obama claims as donors to his campaign are actually souvenir buyers! (Mike)

BREAKING NEWS: Veteran's Affairs Secretary Jim Nicholson resigns! "Heckuva' job, Jimmy!" (7 of 6)

I guess it's a big "oops", "I didn't mean to say that, 'Americans could leave any time they want'", for Nouri al-Maliki. (7 of 6)

Conservative Christian group calls for Vitter's resignation. I did the same thing. Not because Vitter is like Bill Clinton. Because Vitter ran his campaign on the sanctity of marriage, while attacking Bill Clinton. (7 of 6)

"BILL MOYERS JOURNAL explores the talk of impeachment with Constitutional scholar Bruce Fein, who wrote the first article of impeachment against President Bill Clinton, and THE NATION's John Nichols, author of THE GENIUS OF IMPEACHMENT" - watch the video (Mike)

Mandatory dress code for all State Department employees in Iraq's Green Zone: "Personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory until further notice." This includes flak jackets and kevlar helmets. Yeah, serve your country, 130 degree heat and watch your ass because we can't guarantee your safety! (7 of 6)

"According to a senior U.S. military officer and Iraqi lawmakers, about 45% of all foreign militants targeting U.S. troops and Iraqi civilians and security forces are from Saudi Arabia." Well, that percentage is less than the number of 9/11 hijackers. (7 of 6)

Iraq Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki says, "Troops can leave 'any time they want'." Psst, Nouri buddy, that oil deal is not yet done. Without that oil, bu$h/cheney, ain't going nowhere. (7 of 6)

bu$h does not care about the memory of our Soldiers or the feeling's of their families. Case in point, Pat Tillman. (7 of 6)

"...Tony Snow acknowledged what the administration would prefer not to talk about: Iraqi's lawmakers are scheduled to do what Bush likes to do: take August off." (7 of 6)

Did the Democrats Blow A Chance at Winning Future Elections?

Under pressure from state and local officials, as well as from lobbyists for the disabled, House leaders now advocate putting off the most sweeping changes until 2012, four years later than planned. Overhauling voting systems before next year’s presidential election had once been a top Democratic priority, primarily to allow greater accountability and be certain that all votes registered on computerized touch-screen systems were counted. But state and local elections officials told Congress they could not make the changes in time for the balloting in November 2008, particularly in light of the extra workload involved in preparing for next year’s much-earlier presidential primary season. Confronted by similar concerns, Senator Dianne Feinstein, Democrat of California and the chairwoman of the Senate Rules Committee, said she had already decided against seeking any major changes in voting equipment before 2010.

Steven D from Booman's continues:

They've caved on Iraq. They've caved on Iran. They never had the chance to cave on impeachment since they unilaterally decided to disarm before they even assumed control of Congress. And now they have caved on voting reform, a critical issue to many of their constituents who put them in office to insure that all our votes would be counted next election in light of the vote fraud and voter suppression efforts engaged in by Republicans over the last 4 election cycles. I have to ask: Is there anything Congressional Democrats stand for at this point other than getting elected? It's getting harder and harder to make the case that they do, when their deeds consistently fall so far short of their rhetoric. No wonder Congress' approval rating is in a free fall. They were elected to at least try to get something accomplished. All too often they've refused to do even that much.

It's getting harder and harder to stay optimistic about the future of America!

Neil Young - War of Man

"....Back in the days of Watergate, Nixon was opposed by Republicans of conscience: people within Congress and the Justice Department who, despite sharing a party affiliation with Nixon, knew that illegal acts were illegal acts, and would not condone them. The difference between then and now is that there are no such men and women surrounding [Bush] or within his party. The president never cared to surround himself with people of integrity: his party has been purged of all but the most obsequious. "And that is why the scandal is still not recognized as a scandal in his own party or in the compliant arms of administration-friendly advocates: because in order for a violation of law or Constitution to be condemned, it requires people of integrity to condemn it. Any such voices, if they existed, would have already abandoned this president long ago; all that remain are sycophants nearly by definition. "So as of yet, violations of constitutional law remain seen as mere partisan squabbles. There is insufficient moral fiber within a hundred miles of the president for either press or party to declare it as anything worse." - - - Hunter

"Sunni Insurgents Uniting for Political Party"

Legitimate political parties that arise from conflict situations often establish their base of support as powerfully effective purveyors of violence, transitioning into civil society only when the state-run instruments of power allow them a feasible means to achieve political goals. A number of the most powerful insurgent groups in Iraq may be reaching that critical turning point, as a new piece in the UK Guardian reveals that discussions are underway to unite Iraqi Hamas, the 1920 Revolution Brigades, Ansar al-Sunna (offshoot), Jaish al-Islami, Jaish al-Mujahideen, Jama' and Jaish al-Rashideen under the new heading of the "Political Office for the Iraqi Resistance." The perception has spread through the groups that the US will withdraw its forces within the next year, so preparations are underway for a post-occupation role in Iraqi society. Seumas Milne spoke to leaders of Iraqi Hamas, the 1920 Revolution Brigades, and Ansar al-Sunna in a revealing interview that draws into question the narrative that former insurgent groups are choosing to side with the US to help in the fight against al Qaeda. The Guardian piece makes clear that these men have an abiding hatred for "al Qaeda," particularly for their attacks against civilian targets and the way that has allowed all resistance to the occupation to be portrayed as terrorism. But their hate of al Qaeda does not engender support of the US. "Remember that the Americans brought al-Qaida to Iraq," one points out. "Resistance isn't just about killing Americans without any aims or goals," said the spokesman of Ansar al-Sunna. "Our people have come to hate al-Qaida, which gives the impression to the outside world that the resistance in Iraq are terrorists. Suicide bombing is not the best way to fight because it kills innocent civilians. We are against indiscriminate killing - fighting should be concentrated only on the enemy. They believe that all Shia are kuffar - and most of the Sunnis as well." They estimate that al-Qaida now carries out between a fifth and a third of all attacks in Iraq. "Most of al-Qaida's members are Iraqis but its leaders are mostly foreigners," he said, "The Americans magnify their role, even though they are responsible for a minority of resistance operations." Another thing the leaders said the Americans exaggerate is the existence of Iranian or Syrian assistance to their groups, though they say Iran once offered to help.

"Remember that the Americans brought al-Qaida to Iraq..."
Crap, they're on to you bu$h, "heckuva' job Georgie"!

FRIDAY F U N

• See what your desktop icons do when you're not around your computer
  
• Feed The Head (Really weird. Just start clicking around until you can get balls to appear which you then put into the mouth.)
• This sidewalk construction crew is going to have a rude awakening when they're done.
  
• If you like Pixar animation, then check out this cute 5-minute video of a UFO story
  
• Here are some simple, fun games to play located on (believe it or not) an orthodontist's web site
  
• This site is hard to describe, so just check it out and have fun
  
• Ten bizzare things to plug into your computer's USB ports
• Ten reasons not to buy an iPhone
• Here's the first person ever to get stuck inside an iPhone
• For all you Physics majors out there: Water-walking robots

"Deals in Iraq Make Friends of Enemies"

By Thomas E. Ricks Washington Post Staff Writer Friday, July 20, 2007; Page A01 U.S. forces in Iraq are striking a variety of "handshake agreements" with Iraqi insurgents and militia groups, sometimes resulting in the release of fighters detained for attacking coalition forces, U.S. military officials said in several recent interviews. Such informal deals mark a significant tactical shift in the Iraq war and represent a potentially risky effort to enlist former U.S. foes in the battle against hard-line militants. Despite a White House report last week concluding that a formal amnesty initiative would be "counterproductive" for Iraq today, U.S. military officials in Iraq believe that successful counterinsurgency campaigns almost always involve some form of forgiveness as a means to ending the fighting and achieving political reconciliation. Though no formal arrangement exists for granting amnesty to insurgents, the current deals amount to a kind of don't-ask-don't-tell pardon system. U.S. forces cooperate with former enemies in exchange for information about roadside bombs, weapons caches and sanctuaries of al-Qaeda in Iraq, the mainly Iraqi group that has sought to intensify the country's low-level civil war. "Our engagement efforts with groups who were once adversaries is about getting them to point their weapons at al-Qaeda and other extremists," Army Lt. Gen. Raymond T. Odierno, the No. 2 U.S. commander in Iraq, said in a briefing yesterday, offering the most extensive public comments on the subject thus far. "We are ready and willing to engage with key leaders of any groups opposing AQI [al-Qaeda in Iraq] or other extremist groups." He said that U.S. forces have reached deals with a variety of groups, both Sunni and Shiite, "throughout Iraq," citing Baghdad, the provinces of Anbar and Diyala, the towns of Taji and Iskandariyah, the Arab Jabour region, and southern Iraq. "They're all very different; they're all very localized," Odierno said of the arrangements. But, he added, they tend to follow three basic steps. First, the leaders of the groups agree to stop attacking U.S. and Iraqi forces. Then they pledge to fight al-Qaeda in Iraq. Finally, U.S. and Iraqi officials try to get them to become part of Iraqi security forces, usually the police. "There are no signed agreements," Odierno added. "They are . . . handshake agreements." He did not offer details about the number of agreements struck or the number of people with whom they were reached. Other U.S. officials in Iraq have declined to provide any information on the effort. One reason is their belief that the Iraqi government's Shiite leaders would object to any formal program that appeared to forgive Sunni insurgents. A senior U.S. official in Baghdad said that the number of detainees released to tribal leaders so far is "very small" and "on a case-by-case basis." He and others noted that the number of detainees held by the U.S. military in Iraq has increased to almost 22,000, from 15,400 six months ago, when the current counteroffensive began. The issue carries a lot of emotional freight, added a member of the staff of Army Gen. David H. Petraeus, the top U.S. commander in Iraq. "Look at World War II, Korea, Vietnam," he said. "At some point in time, we've talked to, worked with those who were actually shooting at us and killing us." In a report last week on the Iraqi government's progress toward key political and security benchmarks, the White House stated that "little progress" has been made on legislation to enact a formal amnesty program. It went on to argue that such an initiative "would be counterproductive in the current environment," mainly because no major insurgent group or militia has signaled a willingness to renounce violence. A U.S. military intelligence official involved in Iraq matters explained that the United States "will release people to tribal or other key leaders -- including former insurgent leaders who are now working to fight AQI -- as long as they are legitimate leaders in their areas." The detainee releases recognize the reality of today's Iraq, said a retired Special Operations colonel who is working as a contractor in Iraq. "Most of those guys won't be prosecuted by the Iraqi criminal system, anyway. So why not use them as a bargaining chip?" he said. Also, said one person directly involved in the discharges, "I understand that many of the folks we are releasing have killed U.S. soldiers. But we have killed many of their family members, as well." Even so, the prisoner releases are likely to provoke grumbling among troops over what they call "catch and release" programs. Few detainees are held for more than one year, leading soldiers to object about having to recapture Iraqis originally apprehended months earlier for planting a roadside bomb or for shooting at coalition forces. "One of the most common complaints I've heard from our troops with regard to the detention system is it returns the bad guys to the street in about six months, at which point they understand our tactics better and have made a lot of new friends in prison," said Army Capt. Kyle Teamey, a military intelligence officer who has served in Iraq. "The prison system has continually released individuals who have killed Americans and Iraqis alike."

OK, call me a cynic!

What more can I say about this new shift in policy. The Whitehouse says it would be "counterproductive", the General's say, we need "catch and release programs"?!

No wonder the troops in the field are pissed. They end up fighting the same, previously captured, more dangerous than ever Iraqi!
But wait, there was a "handshake agreement", I'm sure that carries a lot of weight to an American soldier, especially after a young Iraqi comes out of prison and finds his family has been killed! That is some trusting strategy.

And what happens if the Iraqi's do not uphold their "handshake agreement"...we end up shooting and killing them! Over four years later and it's down to this, "handshake agreements"!

Why the fuck are we in Iraq???

A Rant by Mike

Sobering op-ed in today's L.A. Times (excerpts):

....For the United States, the world is now, as a result of the Iraq war, a more dangerous place. At the end of 2002, what is sometimes tagged "Al Qaeda Central" in Afghanistan had been virtually destroyed, and there was no Al Qaeda in Iraq. In 2007, there is an Al Qaeda in Iraq, parts of the old Al Qaeda are creeping back into Afghanistan and there are Al Qaeda emulators spawning elsewhere, notably in Europe. Osama bin Laden's plan was to get the U.S. to overreact and overreach itself. With the invasion of Iraq, Bush fell slap-bang into that trap. The U.S. government's own latest National Intelligence Estimate, released this week, suggests that Al Qaeda in Iraq is now among the most significant threats to the security of the American homeland. ....In history, the most important consequences are often the unintended ones. We do not yet know the longer-term unintended consequences of Iraq. Maybe there is a silver lining hidden somewhere in this cloud. But as far as the human eye can see, the likely consequences of Iraq range from the bad to the catastrophic. Looking back over a quarter of a century of chronicling current affairs, I cannot recall a more comprehensive and avoidable man-made disaster.

What a fucked-up world we now live in, courtesy of the fuck-ups in the White House who fucked it all up.


Click the image repeatedly and say "fuck you" each time. Nothing will happen, but maybe you'll feel a little better...

Oh, and a great big "fuck you" to Nancy Pelosi for never starting the impeachment process. More than anyone else on the planet, she is most responsible for enabling the two fuck-ups to continue the slaughter of thousands of Iraqis each week of this horrible, bewildering occupation. She could have started the process this past January. Instead, the blood of tens of thousands of additional humans will be on her rotten hands. She deserves a first class seat, on the express train to hell, between cheney-fuck and the dumb one. Harry Reid? He'll be in the coach car. The rest of us? We've all got reservations on that train because we didn't really do anything to stop these people. Instead, we just sit around, reading and writing this shit.

More bu$h Orders

First, is bu$h off his rocker with this latest notice from the Whitehouse:

Executive Order: Blocking Property of Certain Persons Who Threaten Stabilization Efforts in Iraq (B) undermining efforts to promote economic reconstruction and political reform in Iraq or to provide humanitarian assistance to the Iraqi people;

Then, a warning shot to Senator Hillary Clinton today from the DoD Under Secretary, Edelman:

Premature and public discussion of the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Iraq reinforces enemy propaganda that the United States will abandon its allies in Iraq, much as we are perceived to have done in Vietnam, Lebanon and Somalia. … [S]uch talk understandably unnerves the very same Iraqi allies we are asking to assume enormous personal risks.

I think we can forget about the "08" elections folks. This is all getting more and more spooky to me every minute. Yes, the 'tin foil hat' is on tight!

When our congress finally decides to impeach bu$h/cheney it will end up being too late! The bombing of Iran will have begun and full martial law will soon be in effect. And the media, republi-cons, and moderate Dems will all be saying, "I didn't see that coming?"

Interesting comment found HERE:

Come home troops. Come home to your fat wives, your shitty job, your depressed community, your whiney, overweight kids, your spiritual confusion, your grinding life of paying bills, buying more junk on credit cards, eating bad food, crap for health insurance, paying big oil their “due”, and cheering a flag that now symbolizes corporatized war. We salute you for your sacrifice, for your willingness to take a bullet for America, for the flag, for freedom, for apple pie, for mom and for big oil, Walmart and halliburton to make billions. Thanks - Now, shut up and don’t complain. You served yesteday, be happy for what you have left to call your own. Sincerely yours, The GOP, GW, Cheney, Fox News, Exxon-Mobil, China, and CNN

I appreciate everything noted, except the "fat wives" reference.

Question of the Day: Is Bush/Cheney going to start a war with Iran while Congress is in August recess? Leave your prediction in the comments. I'll post the most thoughtful answers.

HUMOR BREAK

"I'm happy to be a man, but I miss being groped. Everybody tried to grope me all day. Suddenly having breasts and a big bottom gained me so much attention. Men and women wanted to feel my breasts and feel my bum. I must be a slut because I didn't care. Men were flirting with me and I was being given power I never had before. I found it fascinating. Women have power I didn't know they had." - - - John Travolta - in an interview about his role in the upcoming movie, Hairspray

"...those of us in public television have an obligation to make sure viewers like you stay in the loop. I wish we had carried the congressional debate this week in full - all of it - in prime time. When we broadcast teach-ins on the Vietnam war, and the Watergate hearings during the trial of Richard Nixon, it was a real public service - the reason PBS was created. We should keep Iraq in prime time every week - the fighting and dying, the suffering, the debate, the politics - the extraordinary costs. It's months until September. This war is killing us now, body and soul." - - - Bill Moyers

Ever since Circuit City reduced their salary expenses by eliminating over 3,000 senior sales positions, I've shopped there twice and the changes are glaring. What a difference a bad corporate decision makes! Not only are there many fewer salespeople available now, but their general product knowledge is astonishingly anemic compared to just a few months ago. Now when I ask for simple information, like comparing the features between different brands of a product that I'm interested in purchasing, I receive mostly mumbling and blank stares. When I ask for the location of a product, unless I happen to be standing right next to it (which we all do on occasion, right?), they just point me to the some vague area of the store and wish me luck.

I'm sad about this. Over the years our family has purchased more electronic products and appliances from this company than all other companies combined because of their reasonable return policies, their product selection and their knowledgeable staff. I'm also sad that the company put the profit line above the importance of their staff, but that's nothing new in these days of corporate greed and immorality. I must now look for another source of electronics products while bad-mouthing a company with which I always felt comfortable.

I guess I'm searching for the "Trader Joe's" of electronic retailers. Anyone have any suggestions?

On: Pat Tillman

My feelings go out to Pat Tillman's family!

Once again, they must relive the tragic death of their son, brother and husband.

How sickening it must be to continually live with the fact that your own government, especially the executive branch, has lied to you. Worse, that your government has something to hide about the events of Pat's death to cover some bureaucrat's ass(es), a military plan gone awry or a special propaganda production.

Then realizing Pat gave his life trying to defend this current, corrupt, sham of a government.

Have they no shame? Of course they don't!
Jail is the only place for the criminals of this administration.
Time is running out, Congress.

May the Tillman family someday find peace in their heart and be able to finally put the death of Pat to rest!

FRIDAY F U N

• 10 drinks men should never order
  
• How to detect lying
• Instructions for bypassing phone trees and getting human customer service at these 500 companies
  
• Things you never knew had names
• Who was Jesus Christ?
• Find the five differences (game)
  
• Dying to get pulverized?
  
• Balancing objects
• Will an iPhone blend?
  
• Fake or real? (quiz)
  
• Knit your own iPhone
• And last but not least, Coming Out Insurance
  

Bits and Pieces for the Week of July 8 - 14

I came across this highly recommended free site: Secunia Software Inspector. I tried it and it works well. It will inspect your programs and let you know which ones need updating (and gives you the link, to boot!), which is a great way to help keep your computer secure since most program updates these days are for plugging security holes. (Mike)

I know that the President's Office has an expense account, but Bush has gone on a four-year spending spree (Mike)

The staff of this medical professionals web site have some great reviews of the movie Sicko (Mike)

Yay! Lakers finally make a good decision. (Mike)

How New York City Firefighters really feel about Rudy Giuliani running for President (Mike)

The US has close to 160,000 troops in Iraq, yet a $282 million bank robbery takes place? BTW, it was in US dollars. That will buy some major hardware for whatever faction took the cash! (7 of 6)

Just a polite but firm reminder to everyone: the Republicans are sincerely hoping for another terrorist attack in the U.S. (Mike)

Quite the harbinger: U.S. says al Qaeda will "lash out" in Iraq. Can't the DoD come up with something new? (7 of 6)

California oil refiner puts decals on gas pumps which admit that they are ripping you off (Mike)

Watch how Fox News trivializes global warming and equates Gore with the Nazis. (Mike)

This is messed up. Metallica's, James Hetfield was detained at London's Luton Airport on Thursday because of his "Taliban-like beard." (7 of 6)

This disabled Veteran's case is very similar to mine. "Entitlement to individual unemployability is denied." Mine was approved however. I guess I'm one of the lucky ones. Or not. (7 of 6)

"Again and again mothers who lost their sons in France have come to me, and, taking my hand, have not only shed tears upon it, but they have added, `God bless you, Mr. President!" Why should they pray God to bless me? I advised the Congress to create the situation that led to the death of their sons. I ordered their sons overseas. I consented to their sons' being put in the most difficult part of the battle line, where death was certain...Why should they weep upon my hand and call down the blessings of God upon me? Because they believe that their boys died for something that vastly transcends any of the immediate and palpable objects of the war. They believe, and rightly believe, that their sons saved the liberty of the world." - - - Woodrow Wilson - from a speech in Pueblo, Colo., September, 1919

After you watch this video, check out this person's opinion. He raises some good food for thought.

When you eliminate any connection between the media and candidates, the only two truly serious candidates for President in '08 are Dennis Kucinich and Ron Paul. Every word that comes out of the mouths of every other candidate, Democrat or Republican, is geared toward the media: polled, practiced, rewritten, repolled, practiced more, polished, and finally spoken in only structured and controlled settings (speeches, rallies, staged events, debates, interviews, etc). Sure Ron Paul has some extreme views, but then this country has some extreme problems. We should consider Paul's ideas if for no other reason than because they make us think about some really bad government institutions that we all gloss over and take for granted.

Report: al-Qaida Has Regained Strength Jul 11 05:58 PM US/Eastern By KATHERINE SHRADER and MATTHEW LEE Associated Press Writers WASHINGTON (AP) - The government has concluded that al-Qaida has rebuilt its operating capability to a level not seen since the summer of 2001, The Associated Press has learned. A new threat assessment suggests the group that launched the most devastating terrorist attack on the United States has been able to rebuild despite nearly six years of bombings, war and other tactics aimed at crippling it. (source)

So there you have it. After thousands of lives sacrificed and billions of dollars spent, the Bush Administration has jack shit to show for their invasion of Afghanistan in 2001 as a response to the bin Laden directed attack on NYC and the Pentagon.

Regarding Iraq.... Can one have negative jack shit?

Weather Report - Birdland

Tucker the Fool

While sick in bed last night I was channel surfing and came back to MSNBC after Keith Olbermann was over. Dan Abrams had a spot on David Vitter's latest escapades.

I have to admit, it was embarrassing to see Tucker Carlson defend Senator David Vitter (R-LA) on Abrams show. Carlson had the nerve to say (paraphrase), "When men live apart from their wives in Washington, they tend to commit adultery...That's just the way men are".
Excuse me? "Just the way men are"? Maybe in your circle of conservative friends Tucker.

Then, Carlson mention's the only reason Vitter was getting picked on is, "Because, it's about sex and he's a conservative." No Tucker, it's because Vitter ran a campaign on "the sanctity of marriage" and he's a hypocrite.
Watch the segment, Abrams proves his point and makes poor Tucker look like a fool.

And just a little update: "Sen. David Vitter visited a Canal Street brothel several times beginning in the mid-1990s, paying $300 per hour for services at the bordello. Attempting to defend Vitter against the solicitation of prostitution charges, the so-called Canal Street Madam whose operation was shut down by a federal investigators in 2001 said, I want his wife to know he’s a good man."

I'm glad Carlson has a Canal Street Madam to agree with him. That's two pillars of the community on Vitter's side.

To think, Tucker had this argument with his boss (Abrams) on live TV. Now maybe his boss will fire his ass, just for being stupid. No wonder Carlson's ratings are among the lowest for news shows during that block.

I still can't believe Vitter's story is getting buried by the MSM. Wait...yes I can.

Of course watching that segment didn't make me feel any better. It reminds me of when I have an argument with my wingnut sister, she, like Tucker, doesn't see the blatant misdeed.

Unfortunately I'm still sick; that's why my posting has been light.

Bits and Pieces for the Week of July 1 - 7

At "No Quarter", Larry Johnson's blog, (ex-CIA); he shows us the difference between the propaganda type car bomb in the U.K. and the kind of car bombs U.S. Soldier's are facing in Iraq. Yes, save me the superficial argument about them both being bad and intending harm. Look for yourself, tell me, which is...really bad? (7 of 6)

Room-size batteries will help conserve energy and make wind-produced energy more efficient (Mike)

"94 Die in Panama From Tainted Medicine". The chemical, diethylene glycol, found in Anti-Freeze, is the cause. The tainted medicine was supplied by China to a Spanish company, Medicom. What's interesting is that 3 Medicom executives are being held in prison. There are 293 more suspected cases. (7 of 6)

If I can swing it, I'll be in L.A. with Wes Clark between 12 - 1 PM. "We'll be standing outside the Federal Building in West L.A. at the corner of Veteran and Wilshire..." (7 of 6)

Will someone please tell Joe Loserman to STFU! Iran did not declare War on the U.S. The people don't want a War with Iran! Of course, another chickenhawk, Neo-Con Bill Kristol wants War with Iran, also. Since Kristol sets policy for our (p)Resident criminal, I guess we have no choice. (7 of 6)

Libby will serve no jail time. When will justice come to the bu$h cabal? *heavy sigh, hangs head, walks away slowly* (7 of 6)

My friend Lurch, at Main and Central, on "Converting the Heathen". Caution advised, religious tones and war images. (7 of 6)

What Promise To Veterans? - by Larry Scott "We Are U.S. Military Veterans - You Owe Us!" I concur Larry, we have to force the issue. (7 of 6)

Ratcheting up the rhetoric for War with Iran. I guess Sy Hersh was right...about it being bu$h and "the Dick's" wet dream to hit Iran! (7 of 6)

Barack Obama just lost my vote. (Mike)

The underrated value of Disability Insurance. You don't realize the importance of it until you need it. (7 of 6)

I can't actually see this video because my computer at work filters out stuff like this (I just see a big blank section of a web page). I hope it's good, though:

FRIDAY F U N

• Talented squirrel
• Want to get an iPhone just so you can open it up and look inside? See this photo gallery.
• Maybe it's time to brush up on your table manners
  
• Predictions about today from 100 years ago
• While getting my graduate degree in Physiology, it would have been great to have had access to a web site like this
  
• An iPod-sized printer that instantly prints out ink-free photos.
• Paris (no, not the blond felon) installs rent-a-bike stations
  
• And finally, watch this video to see how to cut a hole in an index card big enough to fit your body through.

Here's an interesting quote from Pat Nolan, former California Assemblyman who subsequently served 26 months in prison for racketeering and 13 other charges, who is now an advocate for prison reform. Currently in California, 70% of inmates are re-arrested within three years of release

"If hospitals were failing to heal two out of three patients, would we continue to pour money into them? Of course not. So shame on those who defend the status quo."

[Click this photo to see which candidate for President
in '08 now has the nickname of "The Mole"]

"It is easier to fight for one's principles than to live up to them." - - - Alfred Adler

"RESIGN"

A MUST SEE! THE MOST POWERFUL COMMENTARY FROM KEITH OLBERMANN YET!

Here's the last part of the script.

And in the end, even Richard Nixon could say he could not put this nation through an impeachment. It was far too late for it to matter then, but as the decades unfold, that single final gesture of non-partisanship, of acknowledged responsibility not to self, not to party, not to “base,” but to country, echoes loudly into history. Even Richard Nixon knew it was time to resign Would that you could say that, Mr. Bush. And that you could say it for Mr. Cheney. You both crossed the Rubicon yesterday. Which one of you chose the route, no longer matters. Which is the ventriloquist, and which the dummy, is irrelevant. But that you have twisted the machinery of government into nothing more than a tawdry machine of politics, is the only fact that remains relevant. It is nearly July 4th, Mr. Bush, the commemoration of the moment we Americans decided that rather than live under a King who made up the laws, or erased them, or ignored them — or commuted the sentences of those rightly convicted under them — we would force our independence, and regain our sacred freedoms. We of this time — and our leaders in Congress, of both parties — must now live up to those standards which echo through our history: Pressure, negotiate, impeach — get you, Mr. Bush, and Mr. Cheney, two men who are now perilous to our Democracy, away from its helm. And for you, Mr. Bush, and for Mr. Cheney, there is a lesser task. You need merely achieve a very low threshold indeed. Display just that iota of patriotism which Richard Nixon showed, on August 9th, 1974. Resign.

Catch Olbermann's full transcript at Crooks and Liars.

Gipsy Kings - Volare

Regarding the Libby Commutation:

"The next time you hear a Republican bellow about the Rule of Law when it comes to illegal immigrants, think of their doublestandard [sic] when it comes to rich white Republicans." Steve Soto

"...But I'm of the opinion that there are political risks to impeachment, and these are no small matter. I wish it weren't so close to the elections. I wish the majorities in the House and Senate were larger. I wish fewer voters bought the crap they get from Foxaganda and its kin, which will certainly be in fine spew if impeachment hearings actually get underway. "But what is our choice? We can't only defend the Constitution when the timing is convenient. We can't always wait until election day to make matters right. If that were the Founders' view, there would be no mention of impeachment in the Constitution. If the Bush-Cheney Administration cannot be compelled to turn over subpoenaed documentation relating to its Constitution-dismantling outlawry, and it plans to try every legal maneuver and delaying techinique at its disposal to avoid that compulsion, what remedy remains? "A court battle over these subpoenaed documents could take, in political terms, forever, with no guarantee at the end of even partial victory. The Nixon Administration engaged in legal wrangling over releasing incriminating audiotapes for more than a year, and that was before rightwingers had their hooks so deeply embedded in the federal judiciary. "The political risks of impeachment must be weighed against what's at risk from not impeaching, for failing to shield the Constitution and the American people from the continuing depredations of the lying, unaccountable cabal that's been in charge for the past six-and-a-half years." Meteor Blades

Why, oh why, is everyone so upset, angry and outraged by Bush's commutation of Libby's sentence? Come on, is anyone truly surprised? Did anyone really not expect this to happen? Is this action by Bush in any way inconsistent with his behavior over the past 6+ years? Come on, people, give me a friggin' break. (Mike)

The Madness Never Ends!

This is really sick! Bill Kristol, from the National Review, June 11, 2007.

—On Scooter Libby— KRISTOL: I think [the president] will not let Scooter Libby go to jail. He may not pardon him. He may commute the sentence, the prison sentence — in other words, say no prison sentence, but let Libby pay the $250,000 fine that Judge Walton imposed and therefore not overturn the actual verdict.

Damn, the madness never ends! The (p)Resident (criminal) of the United States is taking policy from a Fox News commentator and PNAC crony.


h/t Think Progress

Do you shop at Ralphs, Albertson's or Vons? If so, watch this: (Mike)

The Struggle Isn't Over

Some of the patrons from "The News Blog", the late, great Steve Gilliard's place, have formed their own place: "The Group News Blog". Lower Manhattanite first lays out the welcome mat in fine fashion and then gives up a fine tribute to Steve. He makes sure that this will not be an imitation of Steve because nothing can be. Never the less, Lower Manhattanite lets it be known that this new blog is an "uncanny offspring of a supremely talented cat...":

No, this is a kind of offshoot, wild-assed, cross-pollination, quill-shooting, radioactive mutant, test-tube baby of what happened those last four months at The News Blog, where some of us learned about the level and even presence of some of our nutty, hard-to-harness "powers". But the main thing is--the vision. The natural flow from "We Fight Back", to "We Fight On" as you see in the masthead above. So yeah, it's gonna be political. It's gonna be rough. It's even gonna be fun, and snarky and all that shit at times. But we're gonna try to make it one thing for certain: Sucka-free. Ain't gonna be about no back-slidin' or half-steppin. I'm a liberal. I'm a progresisve. I'm a dirty fucking hippie--cept' I ain't that dirty, and I like real nice clothes. I'm all the shit that wingnut bastards hate and I'm Goddamned proud of it. So rest assured, the fastballs are comin' as usual, hard and portside. And I love beaning slow-reflexed right-wingers. I got notches in my glove for every one. That's how this place is gonna play. It's gonna deal with the international, the national, and the local shit. We're gonna discuss war, and how to get...to peace. We're gonna look at what's shaping up to be--the longest election season since Guyana's Three-Toed Sloth Council voted for its Circle of Jungle Elders. Pop culture will be commented on--as will food, and yes...even advice. Health and gadgets too, ya'll. It'll be here. And I'll be here, too. Maybe a little hesitant. But fuck, now I can at last answer those who've said "Well, why ain't you blogging?" for the longest, with a simple, "I am...now."

He shares some light on his fellow bloggers at "The Group News Blog", Hubris Sonic and "Doc" Wendel.
He also gives thanks to the many supporters, commentators and lurkers who helped them through the last few months while Steve was sick.

Mostly, Lower Manhattanite informs us that the struggle isn't over:

So, we've had our sadness. Our hurt. It's gonna leave a scar. But you know what? The fight still goes on. Bastards still wanna flex--wanna boost your shit. Be it your rights, your dignity, or your very existence. Fuck all that. You're gonna fight, and live, and Goddamnit--enjoy. So belly up cats and kiddies, dudes and dudettes. And get your bloggy drank on. 'Cause we want you good and blotto on the grog we'll be serving when that inevitable moment comes. You know the one. Some wingnut's gonna roll by, like he's the man, and we're gonna have to say to him... "Hey! There's a new joke goin' round--have ya heard it? It goes...'What...did the five fingers say to the wingnut's face?" SLAP! :)

It's already in my favorites. Another place to visit for our continued struggle of good versus evil. It's not the same place, it never could be, only slightly different. I'll drink it in just the same, because we all know...LEFT is RIGHT!!

h/t terri at dkos