LEFT is RIGHT (blogging against The Bush-war) |
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Iraq War Cost
 
 
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| "Wars throughout history have been waged for conquest and plunder.... the working class who fight all the battles, the working class who make the supreme sacrifices, the working class who freely shed their blood and furnish their corpses, have never yet had a voice in either declaring war or making peace. It is the ruling class that invariably does both. They alone declare war and they alone make peace....They are continually talking about their patriotic duty. It is not their but your patriotic duty that they are concerned about. There is a decided difference. Their patriotic duty never takes them to the firing line or chucks them into the trenches." - - - Eugene V. Debs |
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August 30, 2005
Attention Opera Fans
If you've always wanted to try Opera browser but didn't want to pay the $39 price, the company is giving away free licenses for a short while at: http://clicks.aweber.com/z/ct/?QTaDHwzOcQsEJ.HqdlXxgg
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Stirring the Pot
Although rarely if ever covered in this blog, the hypocritical laws and staggering enforcement costs associated with medical marijuana have made a mockery of our medical and legal systems. Here's one physician's thoughts (subscription required):
| For many decades, marijuana has been the American poster child for how not to deal with a troubling psychoactive substance. By US law, a Schedule I substance is one with no recognized medical use and great potential harm to the user. Marijuana has been classified as a Schedule I substance for many decades, along with heroin and LSD. Judging from its easy availability, low cost, and widespread current use, such a restrictive classification has failed to retard its use. In fact, enforcement of unrealistic laws regarding marijuana has probably caused more harm than marijuana itself. Although far from harmless by toxicologic or pathologic criteria, marijuana is much less dangerous than many other substances in less restrictive schedules, like morphine and cocaine, not to mention the unscheduled legal mass killers tobacco and alcohol. Of course, marijuana does have proven medical usefulness for some conditions. People obey laws they believe to be just; they do not obey the marijuana laws because they know they are unjust, even absurd. Kids quickly see through lies. Many kids may discount the proper scare tactics about really dangerous drugs, like heroin and PCP, because the dangers of marijuana have been so overstated. Ninety percent of Americans believe that the federal government should not prosecute medical users of marijuana, despite the newest "federal foolishness" of the recent Supreme Court decision against it. This commonsense position of the people should give pause to any overzealous prosecutors who might have real trouble finding a jury that would convict a seriously ill user of medical marijuana. The court decision now provides the Congress and the Drug Enforcement Administration with a sterling opportunity to join with the population they are supposed to be serving and with the good science of the 10 states that have authorized the controlled use of medical marijuana and reclassify it at some level other than Schedule I. That's my opinion. I'm Dr. George Lundberg, Editor of MedGenMed. |
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| "The DC Democrats, hapless dupes that so many of them are, fail to understand that politics is blood sport, and they are coming to fight with those pillow bats that therapists give to patients in group therapy." - - - Liberal Street Fighter |
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August 29, 2005
Signs from Crawford
Here are some homemade signs I saw at Camp Casey II the previous weekend (click image for a larger version):
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| “I will reject it because it shows that women’s rights have been forgotten and they want to divide Iraq between groups and territories which are unacceptable. The constitution is the future of the country and should be prepared step by step and not just rushed to meet a deadline.” - - - Salwa Ibrahim, a Sunni woman in Baghdad |
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| "...it will be all too apparent -- even to American voters -- that any U.S. troop withdrawal is an abject retreat, nothing more. That will make it all the harder for Shrubya to abandon his "we will stay and win" rhetorical fantasies. It's like someone who refuses to stop drinking because he doesn't want to face the hangover -- but the longer the bender continues, the more painful the hangover will be when it finally ends." - - - Needlenose |
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Monday Bits
MP George Galloway, who undressed U.S. Senators in a hearing about Iraq pre-war intelligence failures a few months back, will be on a speaking tour of the U.S. shortly, terminating with the Sept. 24 anti-war rally in Washington DC.
Juan Cole summarizes the current reactions in Iraq to the faulty process of releasing the unfinished draft constitution to public referendum. The Sunnis have been excluded from the final amendment process, setting the stage for a bloody revolt.
Paul Krugman explains how Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan is partly to blame for the pending real estate market collapse and 2006 recession.
The Attorney General of California sued 39 drug companies on Thursday, accusing them of bilking the state of hundreds of millions of dollars by overcharging for medicines.
Juan Cole summarizes the current reactions in Iraq to the faulty process of releasing the unfinished draft constitution to public referendum. The Sunnis have been excluded from the final amendment process, setting the stage for a bloody revolt.
Paul Krugman explains how Federal Reserve Chairman Alan Greenspan is partly to blame for the pending real estate market collapse and 2006 recession.
The Attorney General of California sued 39 drug companies on Thursday, accusing them of bilking the state of hundreds of millions of dollars by overcharging for medicines.
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August 28, 2005
Here is a good live news feed from Louisiana covering Hurricane Katrina. If you are anywhere near New Orleans you need to get out of the area now or you will die. This is possibly the most destructive and deadly storm in history to hit the United States. Besides the nearly total destruction of the city and surrounding communities, the hurricane's impact on offshore oil facilites will likely create a short-term oil production shortage, causing a temporary spike in oil, then gas, prices in this country. Here is a current animated infrared video of the hurricane as it approaches and makes landfall.
Here is a current NOAA visible satellite loop, and here is a page with links to all types of storm-related maps.
Katrina
Here is a good live news feed from Louisiana covering Hurricane Katrina. If you are anywhere near New Orleans you need to get out of the area now or you will die. This is possibly the most destructive and deadly storm in history to hit the United States. Besides the nearly total destruction of the city and surrounding communities, the hurricane's impact on offshore oil facilites will likely create a short-term oil production shortage, causing a temporary spike in oil, then gas, prices in this country. Here is a current animated infrared video of the hurricane as it approaches and makes landfall.
Here is a current NOAA visible satellite loop, and here is a page with links to all types of storm-related maps.
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| "If tyranny and oppression come to this land, it will be in the guise of fighting a foreign enemy." - - - James Madison |
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August 27, 2005
| "I have been silent on the Gold Star Moms who still support this man and his war by saying that they deserve the right to their opinions because they are in as much pain as I am. I would challenge them, though, at this point to start thinking for themselves. Iraq DID NOT have WMD; Iraq WAS NOT linked to Al Qaeda and 9/11; Iraq WAS NOT a threat or danger to America. How can these moms who still support George Bush and his insane war in Iraq want more innocent blood shed just because their sons or daughters have been killed? I don't understand it. I don't understand how any mother could want another mother to feel the pain we feel. I am starting to lose a little compassion for them. I know they have been as brainwashed as the rest of America, but they know the pain and heartache and they should not wish it on another. However, I still feel their pain so acutely and pray for these "continue the murder and mayhem" moms to see the light." - - - Cindy Sheehan |
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LEFT is RIGHT goes international!
LEFT is RIGHT's posting about Camp Casey (recent posts below) has had the privilege of being referenced and reproduced across the pond in the United Kingdom at these two well-read social/political web sites:
IndyMediaUK
Fight Back (look for August 26)
I invite you to visit these sites and see how similarly our international neighbors perceive the inhumanity and injustice of the Iraq War and other globally-related issues. For some strange reason I suddenly have a strong urge for tea and crumpets...
IndyMediaUK
Fight Back (look for August 26)
I invite you to visit these sites and see how similarly our international neighbors perceive the inhumanity and injustice of the Iraq War and other globally-related issues. For some strange reason I suddenly have a strong urge for tea and crumpets...
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I thought that I had seen pretty much all the popular, progressive blogs around, but I just came across THIS HILARIOUS ONE tonight. Check it out.
Also, for the past two years I've faithfully posted a Friday Fun every single week. I never know if anyone checks them out or not, but if you do, I apologize for not putting one up this week. Between getting back from Crawford Monday, trying to catch up at work, and posting the comments and photos from Texas, I put zero time this week in assembling fun stuff. I'll try getting back on track next week. Cheers.
Also, for the past two years I've faithfully posted a Friday Fun every single week. I never know if anyone checks them out or not, but if you do, I apologize for not putting one up this week. Between getting back from Crawford Monday, trying to catch up at work, and posting the comments and photos from Texas, I put zero time this week in assembling fun stuff. I'll try getting back on track next week. Cheers.
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August 26, 2005
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Camp Casey II Photos from Saturday and Sunday
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Camp Casey I Photos From Sunday
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Unseen War
From Salon.com:
Injured U.S. soldiers sit on a cargo plane,
its interior lights red because of an attack,
before taking off to Germany from an air
force base in Balad, Iraq, Nov. 13, 2004.
Photo by Lynsey Addario/Corbis
Injured U.S. soldiers sit on a cargo plane,
its interior lights red because of an attack,
before taking off to Germany from an air
force base in Balad, Iraq, Nov. 13, 2004.
Photo by Lynsey Addario/Corbis
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After much thought and research, LEFT is RIGHT is releasing its official post-Iraq War Plan:
LEAVE NOW. |
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Wife of recruit headed to Iraq voices frustrations with government and media on Randi Rhodes show. (audio)
Bill Moyer, 73, wears a "Bullshit Protector" flap
over his ear while President George W. Bush
addresses the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
(AP Photo/Douglas C. Pizac)
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Pic o' the Week
Bill Moyer, 73, wears a "Bullshit Protector" flap
over his ear while President George W. Bush
addresses the Veterans of Foreign Wars.
(AP Photo/Douglas C. Pizac)
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August 25, 2005
More on Camp Casey II
Continuing with info about our trip to Crawford, TX last weekend. The single most profoundly impressive person we encountered throughout our stay was Lance Cpl. Jeff Key. He is currently awaiting discharge from the Marines after acting against the "don't ask, don't tell" policy. Here's a photo of him that I did not take:
Lance Cpl. Jeff Key, USMC
We first met Jeff Friday evening after arriving in Crawford. He had given a nice speech and then later came and sat down with us after I snagged him. I had wanted to find out if he knew our neighbor, a marine who was stationed at the same camp, Camp Pendleton. Our neighbor, while stationed in Iraq, had spearheaded a "Toys for Iraqi Orphans" drive which I extensively pushed and advertised last year on this blog. He talked to my wife and me for a while and we found him to be terribly charming.
During our conversation a recently discharged, very young and very shy Marine sat down at our table. He had served in Iraq and visibly was emotionally troubled. As soon as Jeff noticed him he ignored us (thankfully) and started to talk quietly to him and obviously console him for a long time in a very compassionate manner. We were just blown away.
The next night, on Saturday, Jeff performed a one-man play which he has done numerous times across the country (he has an acting background). The 90-minute play was composed of scenes recreated from excerpts of a personal journal he maintained while in Iraq, which he said helped him keep his sanity. It was deeply moving and gave us a keen insight into his personal thoughts and the decisions he made both before the war (enlistment) and while traveling throughout Iraq as a tank driver. His descriptions of his interactions with the Iraqi children and adults were priceless, as were his recreations of events involving fellow Marines including one of several from his unit who were killed. My wife said it was the best one-person performance she had ever seen.
Here's a photo I took on Saturday when he took the podium to deliver one of many speeches. He had been on the phone speaking to a new friend he had made in Utah and started telling us about his conversation:
Lance Cpl. Jeff Key (8/20/05)
Each night that we were at Camp Casey II he played taps (one of his Marine duties) at sunset to honor the dead soldiers Bush had sent off to protect the President's buddies' oil. On our last two nights he played taps in front of the "memorial crosses" (see photos in an earlier post below). As you can imagine, it was deeply emotional. In the crowd of 500+ people you could hear a pin drop.
At 6'5" Jeff is a towering individual and it was never a problem finding him in a crowd that, at peak times, reached around 1,000.
Irrespective of Key's political, sexual or religious inclinations, I found the man to be someone who makes me realize that, in our world today, we can have a military to protect us and be composed of service-men and -women who are compassionate towards foreigners. This in spite of being led today by a ruthless Administration in Washington D.C. whose only objective is to use the military for strictly person financial gain. I pray that someday, if not in my lifetime then hopefully in those of my children, there will no longer be armies on this planet. Until that time, I hope that the U.S. military will evolve such that it is composed mostly of caring and dedicated individuals like Jeff Key.
Lance Cpl. Jeff Key, USMC
We first met Jeff Friday evening after arriving in Crawford. He had given a nice speech and then later came and sat down with us after I snagged him. I had wanted to find out if he knew our neighbor, a marine who was stationed at the same camp, Camp Pendleton. Our neighbor, while stationed in Iraq, had spearheaded a "Toys for Iraqi Orphans" drive which I extensively pushed and advertised last year on this blog. He talked to my wife and me for a while and we found him to be terribly charming.
During our conversation a recently discharged, very young and very shy Marine sat down at our table. He had served in Iraq and visibly was emotionally troubled. As soon as Jeff noticed him he ignored us (thankfully) and started to talk quietly to him and obviously console him for a long time in a very compassionate manner. We were just blown away.
The next night, on Saturday, Jeff performed a one-man play which he has done numerous times across the country (he has an acting background). The 90-minute play was composed of scenes recreated from excerpts of a personal journal he maintained while in Iraq, which he said helped him keep his sanity. It was deeply moving and gave us a keen insight into his personal thoughts and the decisions he made both before the war (enlistment) and while traveling throughout Iraq as a tank driver. His descriptions of his interactions with the Iraqi children and adults were priceless, as were his recreations of events involving fellow Marines including one of several from his unit who were killed. My wife said it was the best one-person performance she had ever seen.
Here's a photo I took on Saturday when he took the podium to deliver one of many speeches. He had been on the phone speaking to a new friend he had made in Utah and started telling us about his conversation:
Lance Cpl. Jeff Key (8/20/05)
Each night that we were at Camp Casey II he played taps (one of his Marine duties) at sunset to honor the dead soldiers Bush had sent off to protect the President's buddies' oil. On our last two nights he played taps in front of the "memorial crosses" (see photos in an earlier post below). As you can imagine, it was deeply emotional. In the crowd of 500+ people you could hear a pin drop.
At 6'5" Jeff is a towering individual and it was never a problem finding him in a crowd that, at peak times, reached around 1,000.
Irrespective of Key's political, sexual or religious inclinations, I found the man to be someone who makes me realize that, in our world today, we can have a military to protect us and be composed of service-men and -women who are compassionate towards foreigners. This in spite of being led today by a ruthless Administration in Washington D.C. whose only objective is to use the military for strictly person financial gain. I pray that someday, if not in my lifetime then hopefully in those of my children, there will no longer be armies on this planet. Until that time, I hope that the U.S. military will evolve such that it is composed mostly of caring and dedicated individuals like Jeff Key.
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Liberals in the workplace
I think one issue that liberals/progressives think they must segregate into two parts is the relationship between their personal politics and their work environment. My personal feelings are as follows.
The most important things we can do on our job are to be honest, set high standards of work ethics and conduct for ourselves and our co-workers, and do as good a job as we can, always trying to improve our work skills and knowledge. That is the way we earn the respect of the people around us. When our co-workers then find out that we are flaming liberals who run anti-Bush blogs and attend peace marches and send money to groups advocating progressive causes, then it will be very hard for them to suddenly change their minds.
People by nature easily form judgments from initial impressions and then find it difficult for many reasons to change those impressions, whether it's because they don't want to admit to themselves that maybe they were wrong, or they have already told others how they initially felt about us and don't want to "lose face" at the water cooler, or whatever. So psychologically they have set themselves up to realize that some people who don't necessarily agree with them maybe have views and beliefs that bear consideration.
Of course there are the die-hard evangelical bible-thumpers who never learned how to think for themselves and just spout the safe, fanatical rantings of their religious leaders, but they have always been around (for our amusement, I think) and will always be there to firmly anchor the right end of the social spectrum.
It's the more recent, ill-informed converts to the Right that are susceptible to changing their views and beliefs as they are exposed more to the real world and to people like us who see the inhumanity around us and actually know the difference between good and evil. I think we're seeing that happening right now as we watch Bush's poll ratings sink into the sewer.
So I say to you, be honest and hard-working at your job, especially when times are as chaotic as they are right now. Always respect the opinions and beliefs of your co-workers, and always be proud of who you are, no matter what others may say to you or about you. No two people on this planet will ever agree on everything, and sometimes two people might never agree on just about anything, but we all have the same right to be here.
The most important things we can do on our job are to be honest, set high standards of work ethics and conduct for ourselves and our co-workers, and do as good a job as we can, always trying to improve our work skills and knowledge. That is the way we earn the respect of the people around us. When our co-workers then find out that we are flaming liberals who run anti-Bush blogs and attend peace marches and send money to groups advocating progressive causes, then it will be very hard for them to suddenly change their minds.
People by nature easily form judgments from initial impressions and then find it difficult for many reasons to change those impressions, whether it's because they don't want to admit to themselves that maybe they were wrong, or they have already told others how they initially felt about us and don't want to "lose face" at the water cooler, or whatever. So psychologically they have set themselves up to realize that some people who don't necessarily agree with them maybe have views and beliefs that bear consideration.
Of course there are the die-hard evangelical bible-thumpers who never learned how to think for themselves and just spout the safe, fanatical rantings of their religious leaders, but they have always been around (for our amusement, I think) and will always be there to firmly anchor the right end of the social spectrum.
It's the more recent, ill-informed converts to the Right that are susceptible to changing their views and beliefs as they are exposed more to the real world and to people like us who see the inhumanity around us and actually know the difference between good and evil. I think we're seeing that happening right now as we watch Bush's poll ratings sink into the sewer.
So I say to you, be honest and hard-working at your job, especially when times are as chaotic as they are right now. Always respect the opinions and beliefs of your co-workers, and always be proud of who you are, no matter what others may say to you or about you. No two people on this planet will ever agree on everything, and sometimes two people might never agree on just about anything, but we all have the same right to be here.
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Extremist? So be it.
People protesting as I have recently have been labeled "Anti-War Extremists". Well, if I was ever to become an extremist in my life, I couldn't have thought of a better cause. So I hereby proudly announce that I am a friggin' blue-blooded, tax-paying, troop-supporting, gay-marriage advocating, hybrid car-owning, wife-loving, Social Security-supporting, environment-caring, women's rights-backing, flaming Progressive who is as extremely anti-war as a person can be.
I AM AN ANTI-WAR EXTREMIST!!
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| In 2008 I want a leader who is willing now to say: "I made a mistake, and for my mistake I am going to Iraq and accompanying the next planeload of flag-draped coffins back to Dover Air Force Base. And I am going to ask forgiveness for my mistake from every parent who will talk to me."... The real defeatists today are not those protesting the war. The real defeatists are those in power and their silent supporters in the opposition party who are reduced to repeating "Stay the course" even when the course, whatever it now is, is light years away from the one originally undertaken. The truth is we're way off course. We've stumbled into a hornet's nest. We've weakened ourselves at home and in the world. We are less secure today than before this war began. Who now has the courage to say this? - - - Gary Hart |
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August 24, 2005
| "In the First Amendment, the Founding Fathers gave the free press the protection it must have to fulfill its essential role in our democracy. The press was to serve the governed, not the governors. The Government's power to censor the press was abolished so that the press would remain forever free to censure the Government. The press was protected so that it could bare the secrets of government and inform the people. Only a free and unrestrained press can effectively expose deception in government. And paramount among the responsibilities of a free press is the duty to prevent any part of the government from deceiving the people and sending them off to distant lands to die of foreign fevers and foreign shot and shell." - - - Justice Black. NYT v. US. 403 US 713 |
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Camp Casey Photos
When you enter "downtown" Crawford, TX on Hwy 185 you will pass the Peace House. This is the focal point of operations for the two Camp Caseys. Until a few weeks ago the House was operating on a shoestring budget, and couldn't even afford phone service. When Cindy Sheehan came to Crawford to lodge her protest she paid the $200+ bill. Since then the flood of donations has given the House a financial foundation to support all the necessary resources for running the two camps. If you decide to park near the Peace House you can take a shuttle to either of the Camps.
Crawford Peace House (8/21/05)
About 5 miles down some country roads lies the first location that Cindy set up to invite and then wait for Bush to visit and discuss the reasons he sent her son to Iraq:
Camp Casey I (8/21/05)
Continuing a few miles northwest on Canaan Church Rd. you will find the current hub of activity, Camp Casey II. The crosses were set up Saturday and represent all of the approximately 200 Texan soldiers Bush sent to die in Iraq. The tent itself was used a few weeks earlier for a fundraising event on the Bush compound:
Camp Casey II (8/21/05)
Casey II is adjacent to the western entrance to Bush's compound and is barricaded and protected by the Secret Service and state police:
Western entrance to Bush Compound and corner of Camp Casey II (8/21/05)
Upon entering the Camp II tent you immediately notice a mock coffin covered with photos and descriptions of all 1,860+ U.S. soldiers whom Bush sent to their death:
Memorial Coffin (8/21/05)
Memorial Coffin closeup
My next Crawford posts will contain more detailed photos of the two camps.
UPDATE: I came across THIS MUSIC VIDEO about Camp Casey I (found at THIS SITE).
Crawford Peace House (8/21/05)
About 5 miles down some country roads lies the first location that Cindy set up to invite and then wait for Bush to visit and discuss the reasons he sent her son to Iraq:
Camp Casey I (8/21/05)
Continuing a few miles northwest on Canaan Church Rd. you will find the current hub of activity, Camp Casey II. The crosses were set up Saturday and represent all of the approximately 200 Texan soldiers Bush sent to die in Iraq. The tent itself was used a few weeks earlier for a fundraising event on the Bush compound:
Camp Casey II (8/21/05)
Casey II is adjacent to the western entrance to Bush's compound and is barricaded and protected by the Secret Service and state police:
Western entrance to Bush Compound and corner of Camp Casey II (8/21/05)
Upon entering the Camp II tent you immediately notice a mock coffin covered with photos and descriptions of all 1,860+ U.S. soldiers whom Bush sent to their death:
Memorial Coffin (8/21/05)
Memorial Coffin closeup
My next Crawford posts will contain more detailed photos of the two camps.
UPDATE: I came across THIS MUSIC VIDEO about Camp Casey I (found at THIS SITE).
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August 23, 2005
Thoughts on Crawford
Until I have some free time to sit down and assimilate notes and photos, I would like to mention a few observations about what we witnessed in Crawford, TX over the weekend.
First and foremost, the organization of Camp Casey II was a marvel to witness. In only a week's time a group of dedicated people who came purely because of their convictions set up an efficient, well-run operation (in the friggin' middle of nowhere). The food is first-rate, the grounds are clean and well-kept, the shuttle service to "downtown" Crawford is continuous, and presentations, speeches and entertainment are well-coordinated (in spite of the ad-lib nature of the planning due to unscheduled and unexpected appearances of so many famous peace activists and entertainers).
What impressed me the most was the degree to which so many volunteered their time and resources to help. Nearly the entire operation is run by donations and individuals who just showed up and asked, "Tell me what I can do to help." Mrs. LEFT is RIGHT and I spent most of Sunday assisting with the food services.
Despite the 100+ degree days there is plenty of shelter and a plethora of cold drinks. The only thing missing was air conditioning, but hey, Progressives are not wimps, unless you're like me (from a temperate climate - Los Angeles) and at one point nearly passed out from heat stress due to not properly pacing myself while helping out.
The location of Camp Casey II, where we were, is literally next to the driveway that enters Bush's ranch. During our 3-day stay around two-to-three thousand or so people came and left, with a core group of probably 100-200 staying and running the entire operation. I understand that yesterday, the day we flew home, wireless internet was set up... just incredible.
They do need more volunteers. Even if you donate just an hour or two of your time, even if you just pick up a couple of people in your car as you pass through Crawford on your way to Camps I or II, every little bit of help makes a big difference.
I cannot tell you how uplifting it was to be around such a large group of people who care about exactly the same things as you and who are from literally every state in the nation and even other countries. It was mind-boggling. The Mrs. and I did not want to leave. But we both have kids and jobs back home and are fortunate to have had the opportunity to do this.
Although Cindy Sheehan is the seed and symbol of this movement, she is no longer the driving force. The driving force now belongs to you and me, people who have finally found a way to express their outrage against, and resolve to stop, this group of thugs who have stolen our government and wasted the once-promising lives of thousands of young Americans and tens-of-thousands of peaceful Iraqis. Folks, this IS the genesis of the people's anti-Iraq-War movement.
More to come...
First and foremost, the organization of Camp Casey II was a marvel to witness. In only a week's time a group of dedicated people who came purely because of their convictions set up an efficient, well-run operation (in the friggin' middle of nowhere). The food is first-rate, the grounds are clean and well-kept, the shuttle service to "downtown" Crawford is continuous, and presentations, speeches and entertainment are well-coordinated (in spite of the ad-lib nature of the planning due to unscheduled and unexpected appearances of so many famous peace activists and entertainers).
What impressed me the most was the degree to which so many volunteered their time and resources to help. Nearly the entire operation is run by donations and individuals who just showed up and asked, "Tell me what I can do to help." Mrs. LEFT is RIGHT and I spent most of Sunday assisting with the food services.
Despite the 100+ degree days there is plenty of shelter and a plethora of cold drinks. The only thing missing was air conditioning, but hey, Progressives are not wimps, unless you're like me (from a temperate climate - Los Angeles) and at one point nearly passed out from heat stress due to not properly pacing myself while helping out.
The location of Camp Casey II, where we were, is literally next to the driveway that enters Bush's ranch. During our 3-day stay around two-to-three thousand or so people came and left, with a core group of probably 100-200 staying and running the entire operation. I understand that yesterday, the day we flew home, wireless internet was set up... just incredible.
They do need more volunteers. Even if you donate just an hour or two of your time, even if you just pick up a couple of people in your car as you pass through Crawford on your way to Camps I or II, every little bit of help makes a big difference.
I cannot tell you how uplifting it was to be around such a large group of people who care about exactly the same things as you and who are from literally every state in the nation and even other countries. It was mind-boggling. The Mrs. and I did not want to leave. But we both have kids and jobs back home and are fortunate to have had the opportunity to do this.
Although Cindy Sheehan is the seed and symbol of this movement, she is no longer the driving force. The driving force now belongs to you and me, people who have finally found a way to express their outrage against, and resolve to stop, this group of thugs who have stolen our government and wasted the once-promising lives of thousands of young Americans and tens-of-thousands of peaceful Iraqis. Folks, this IS the genesis of the people's anti-Iraq-War movement.
More to come...
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Still not convinced that we are gradually descending into a fascist state??? Check out this INCREDIBLE FOOTAGE of police raiding a legal party in Utah. Wow...
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Pat Robertson Suggests A Way to Save $200B
| "You know, I don't know about this doctrine of assassination, but if he thinks we're trying to assassinate him, I think that we really ought to go ahead and do it. It's a whole lot cheaper than starting a war." - - - Pat Robertson on why we should murder Venezuelan Leftist President Hugo Chavez |
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August 22, 2005
Crawford Cindy
Just returned from Camp Casey today. Very tired from the heat in Crawford Texas all weekend and the traveling back and forth from Calif. to Texas. Will start posting about Camp Casey tomorrow, incl. lots of pics.
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August 19, 2005
Downtown Crawford, TX
This weekend LEFT is RIGHT will be traveling from his cozy home in Cerritos, California to join the protest in Crawford, Texas. I hope to see other Southern Californians there, helping out and making our voices heard.
Hotel/motel rooms in the surrounding areas, such as Waco and Dallas/Fort Worth, are going fast, so get online now and start searching if you're headed that way.
I must be careful when protesting, or I'll end up here:
Crawford City Jail
I probably won't be blogging while I'm gone, but I promise to all readers of LEFT is RIGHT that I will post some pics of Camp Casey next week.
Eastward, Ho!
This weekend LEFT is RIGHT will be traveling from his cozy home in Cerritos, California to join the protest in Crawford, Texas. I hope to see other Southern Californians there, helping out and making our voices heard.
Hotel/motel rooms in the surrounding areas, such as Waco and Dallas/Fort Worth, are going fast, so get online now and start searching if you're headed that way.
I must be careful when protesting, or I'll end up here:
I probably won't be blogging while I'm gone, but I promise to all readers of LEFT is RIGHT that I will post some pics of Camp Casey next week.
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Friday Fun
Early recorded sounds
Elvis the Robo Cat (video)
Speak n' Spell Emulator
Hillbilly Tribute (video)
English Nouns in Color
Serious Coin Flipping (video)
Modern Ruins
Do-it-yourself security inspections
"Hello. Technical Support. May I help you?" (video)
Useless Office Skills
Elvis the Robo Cat (video)
Speak n' Spell Emulator
Hillbilly Tribute (video)
English Nouns in Color
Serious Coin Flipping (video)
Modern Ruins
Do-it-yourself security inspections
"Hello. Technical Support. May I help you?" (video)
Useless Office Skills
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August 18, 2005
Yet Another Blunder by Bush-war in Iraq
What a sorry, major fuckup this is (emphasis added):
Yes, but the Iraqis now have "democracy"! Saddam wouldn't let them eat expired food, but now the Americans have given them the freedom to eat any food they want, no matter how toxic. Praise the lord for Bush and his invasion/occupation forces.
| BAGHDAD, 18 August (IRIN) - A serious rise in food poisoning cases caused by expired and contaminated food in Iraq has been reported by the Ministry of Health. “Government hospital directors have alerted our ministry that there is an increase in cases on a daily basis, especially in children, caused by poor food quality in the markets,” to Mustafa al-Aani, a senior official at the ministry said. Muhammad Shambar, a Baghdad doctor, said initial symptoms for the food poisoning are characterised by intense diarrhoea and constant vomiting. He added that urgent action should be taken by the patient before dehydration sets in. “We have at least three cases of food poisoning every day in our hospital and when you analyse the patient’s history you find that they ate food that had passed the sell by date or that it was prepared in unhygienic conditions,” Shambar added. Expired food had been sold in northern Iraq, which was considered to have the best food monitoring system in Iraq, officials said. During Saddam Hussein’s regime all food stuff entering the country was monitored for quality control and sell by dates were checked rigorously before entering shops. One of the main reasons for this recent increase in tainted food in the market is due to the removal of border customs check points, officials said. Dr Salah Hassan, a food quality control expert at the Ministry of Health, further explained that shopkeepers were being duped into buying such goods as the sellers were changing the date of expiry by sticking new labels on products. “I am sick now because I ate cheese which was supposed to be good quality. My son found that the label had been changed giving a longer expiry date. But you can see on the old label that it expired more than a year ago,” Saluwa Ali, a patient at Yarmouk hospital, said. The food sold is full of bacteria and harmful, doctors say. “We have found very dangerous bacteria or fungi on the expired products that we tested from local markets,” said Hassan. “Consumers are not aware of the bacteria because it is not visible in the food and subsequently find themselves inside an emergency hospital room.” Government health workers said they were working to stop the illegal trade and called on shopkeepers to be more vigilant when purchasing. |
Yes, but the Iraqis now have "democracy"! Saddam wouldn't let them eat expired food, but now the Americans have given them the freedom to eat any food they want, no matter how toxic. Praise the lord for Bush and his invasion/occupation forces.
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Today's Global Warming Reports
Drought-hit Spain and Portugal battle blazes in searing heat
Sens. McCain, Clinton probe melting Arctic
Climate change a 'blind spot' for U.S. insurers
Sens. McCain, Clinton probe melting Arctic
Climate change a 'blind spot' for U.S. insurers
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Midweek Bits
Bush-war's latest Disapproval Ratings (Mr. Prez: It ain't lookin' good. Your political capital has collapsed.)
The Chickenhawk Argument
"Instead of Saddam we now have thousands of Saddams."
The National Do Not Call Registry has topped 100 million phone numbers
An Analysis of Tom Hayden's Proposal to Withdraw U.S. Troops from Iraq
Trent Lott disses Bill Frist
Some "kiss" advice for Cindy Sheehan
The Chickenhawk Argument
"Instead of Saddam we now have thousands of Saddams."
The National Do Not Call Registry has topped 100 million phone numbers
An Analysis of Tom Hayden's Proposal to Withdraw U.S. Troops from Iraq
Trent Lott disses Bill Frist
Some "kiss" advice for Cindy Sheehan
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August 17, 2005
Hey, did you hear that? The Left is COORDINATED!
Which unfortunately means that everything R.L. said was a lie.
| "I mean, Cindy Sheehan is just Bill Burkett. Her story is nothing more than forged documents. There's nothing about it that's real, including the mainstream media's glomming onto it. It's not real. It's nothing more than an attempt. It's the latest effort made by the coordinated left." - - - Rush Limbaugh |
Hey, did you hear that? The Left is COORDINATED!
Which unfortunately means that everything R.L. said was a lie.
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On Sheehan
| "The silence of the anti-war movement has been deafening. There hasn't been a national protest since the war started (unless you count the RNC protests as anti-war, which I don't.) That should change on 9/24, though it appears UFPJ and ANSWER are doing their sectarian thing and organizing separate marches. Again. But the demobilization of the anti-war movement is a tragedy. "Right now it's completely awesome that Cindy Sheehan is doing what she's doing. And it's completely terrible that at a time when 60 percent of people in this country oppose the war that it almost seems like Sheehan is standing alone. And it's completely terrible that the right-wing is going into full caricature mode on both Sheehan and the other military families and anti-war folks that have now joined the protest." - - - Zagg at RandomWalks "The purity of Sheehan's protest has lately been diluted by her association with the far Left, the extravagance of her language and the arrival of political operatives to manipulate and manage her. But in a slow news month, Cindy Sheehan has helped turn the focus of national debate back to the war, at a moment of special vulnerability for the president. "According to Newsweek, support for Bush's handling of the war has fallen for the first time below 40 percent – to 34 percent, with 61 percent now disapproving of his war leadership. Compare these numbers to the 68 percent support Nixon commanded on Vietnam after that Nov. 3 address, and the gravity of Bush's condition becomes evident. "Put bluntly, the bottom is falling out of support for the commander in chief. What is remarkable is that no Democrat has stepped forward, as Gene McCarthy did, to lead an anti-war crusade and call for a date certain for withdrawal of U.S. troops. Cindy Sheehan is filling that vacuum." - - - Pat Buchanan (yes, THAT Pat Buchanan) "To make crystals, a single pure crystal is entered into a saturated solution. This is called the seed crystal. Other crystals then begin to form around the seed crystal, building themselves into the crystal lattice structure. Cindy is the seed crystal of the renewed antiwar movement. We are crystallizing about her, it is our job to build the lattice, the enduring structure that facilitates continued growth and emerges from the solution. "Let the lattice-building begin, we need to form organized, active grassroots antiwar structures everywhere we are. Don’t be afraid if your little town or conservative suburb has few against the war--now. Look at what one person, our seed crystal, has accomplished. We don’t need to be national heroes. But even a few voices, if everywhere, will grow together into a rising national chorus. "This is how we build the lattice, with a thousand small crystals all over the country, bringing the message to each and every community in America, and uniting for the big pushes such as supporting Cindy and the big marches. Bushco has made it clear that they intend to continue playing the same lying imperialist game that got us into this mess. The Democrats are still fearful, still under the sway of the Peter Beinarts telling them they must out-hawk the Republicans. But if the people lead, the leaders will follow. Cindy has opened the door, in her way not unlike the stand of Rosa Parks so long ago. Come together all you crystals, let us be the rock on which the warship of the regime is broken. Shine on, you crazy diamonds, shine on." - - - Dancing Larry |
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Daily Kos posted the following quotes:
And just who said these bold statements?
These are all quotes made when Clinton sent troops to Bosnia! The same people who now label as unpatriotic America-haters those people who say the same things today about Iraq. Oh my, the hypocracy on the Right is thicker than the cold-blooded grey matter behind Bush-war's eyes.
| 1. "You can support the troops but not the president." 2. "Well, I just think it's a bad idea. What's going to happen is they're going to be over there for 10, 15, maybe 20 years." 3. "Explain to the mothers and fathers of American servicemen that may come home in body bags why their son or daughter have to give up their life?" 4. "[The] President . . . is once again releasing American military might on a foreign country with an ill-defined objective and no exit strategy. He has yet to tell the Congress how much this operation will cost. And he has not informed our nation's armed forces about how long they will be away from home. These strikes do not make for a sound foreign policy." 5. "American foreign policy is now one huge big mystery. Simply put, the administration is trying to lead the world with a feel-good foreign policy." 6. "If we are going to commit American troops, we must be certain they have a clear mission, an achievable goal and an exit strategy." 7. "I had doubts about the bombing campaign from the beginning . . I didn't think we had done enough in the diplomatic area." 8. "I cannot support a failed foreign policy. History teaches us that it is often easier to make war than peace. This administration is just learning that lesson right now. The President began this mission with very vague objectives and lots of unanswered questions. A month later, these questions are still unanswered. There are no clarified rules of engagement. There is no timetable. There is no legitimate definition of victory. There is no contingency plan for mission creep. There is no clear funding program. There is no agenda to bolster our over-extended military. There is no explanation defining what vital national interests are at stake. There was no strategic plan for war when the President started this thing, and there still is no plan today" 9. "Victory means exit strategy, and it's important for the President to explain to us what the exit strategy is." |
And just who said these bold statements?
| 1. Rep Tom Delay (R-TX) 2. Joe Scarborough (R-FL) 3. Sean Hannity, Fox News, 4/6/99 4. Sen. Rick Santorum (R-PA) 5. Rep Tom Delay (R-TX) 6. Karen Hughes, speaking on behalf of George W Bush 7. Senator Trent Lott (R-MS) 8. Rep Tom Delay (R-TX) 9. Governor George W. Bush (R-TX) |
These are all quotes made when Clinton sent troops to Bosnia! The same people who now label as unpatriotic America-haters those people who say the same things today about Iraq. Oh my, the hypocracy on the Right is thicker than the cold-blooded grey matter behind Bush-war's eyes.
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| "I think it's important for me to be thoughtful and sensitive to those who have got something to say. But I think it's also important for me to go on with my life, to keep a balanced life ... I think the people want the president to be in a position to make good, crisp decisions and to stay healthy. And part of my being is to be outside exercising. So I'm mindful of what goes on around me. On the other hand, I'm also mindful that I've got a life to live and will do so." - - - Alcoholic and cocaine user President George W. Bush, while vacationing in Texas |
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Hugo Threatens Bush
Hugo Chavez (President of Venezuela) threatened to cut off his nation's oil exports to the U.S. if Bush doesn't back off.
Well, damn it, I just started pumping Citgo Gas into my Prius this year (in protest of the obscenely greedy American oil companies). What is a good Progressive supposed to do now?
(Thanks to Michael Miller at Public Domain Progress for the leads.)
Well, damn it, I just started pumping Citgo Gas into my Prius this year (in protest of the obscenely greedy American oil companies). What is a good Progressive supposed to do now?
(Thanks to Michael Miller at Public Domain Progress for the leads.)
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August 16, 2005
| "Psychologically, it [Iraq] may be the worst affected country in the world. What's going on is really a catastrophe from a psychological and a societal point of view.” - - - Dr. Harith Hassan, the former head of Baghdad's Psychological Research Center |
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Best Blog Post Title of the Day
Debate over .xxx domain slowly builds toward climax
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August 15, 2005
Constitution Shmonstitution
Juan Cole reports that the new Iraqi draft constitution is MIA:
My high school Civics class could have, as a project, set up a better transitional government and constitution than the Bush-war Administration has shown that they are capable of doing. I guess Bush should have been paying better attention in his Poli Sci classes.
***UPDATE*** They've tacked one week onto the deadline.
| Every indication is that a final text of Iraq's permanent constitution just won't be reported out of the drafting committee in time to have parliament vote on it on Monday. Now Iraqi politicians are talking about having parliament amend the interim constitution to allow a delay of say, two weeks. In fact, according to the Transitional Administrative Law, if the committee did not ask for an extension by August 1 (which it was pressured not to do by the Bush administration); and if the parliament did not approve the new constitution by August 15; then parliament should be dissolved... ...Thus, according to the existing interim constitution, the plan of extending the deadline at this late date is clearly unconstitutional, and parliament should instead be dissolved and new elections held. (They have to be held no later than December, but could be held, e.g., in September or October in principle). In fact, holding new elections will require another lockdown of the whole country, perhaps the addition of a division or 20,000 American troops to what is there now, another 3-day curfew on all vehicle traffic, and all the logistics these steps would entail. In other words, even if they interim constitution was followed, new elections probably could not be held before November at the earliest. In the meantime, with no parliament Ibrahim Jaafari and his Shiite-dominated cabinet would become an executive unchecked by a legislature, and so a sort of elected dictatorship (there is no supreme court yet) for two to four months.... |
My high school Civics class could have, as a project, set up a better transitional government and constitution than the Bush-war Administration has shown that they are capable of doing. I guess Bush should have been paying better attention in his Poli Sci classes.
***UPDATE*** They've tacked one week onto the deadline.
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Today's Global Warming Reports
Record Alaskan Heat
Drought Threatens Crops and Shuts River in Midwest
Deadly wildfires in parched Portugal worsen as temperatures soar
Drought is spreading, study finds
New sea wall may fall short as water rises, report says
I know nothing about this man other than I've always enjoyed his acting. I hope he's a good liberal.
Drought Threatens Crops and Shuts River in Midwest
Deadly wildfires in parched Portugal worsen as temperatures soar
Drought is spreading, study finds
New sea wall may fall short as water rises, report says
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Christopher Walken 2008
| "Our great country is in a terrible downward spiral. We're outsourcing jobs, bankrupting social security, and losing lives at war. We need to focus on what's important-- paying attention to our children, our citizens, our future. We need to think about improving our failing educational system, making better use of our resources, and helping to promote a stable, safe, and tolerant global society. It's time to be smart about our politics. It's time to get America back on track." The Official Homepage of the Walken 2008 Campaign: http://www.walken2008.com |
I know nothing about this man other than I've always enjoyed his acting. I hope he's a good liberal.
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Monday Bits
"Marine of the Year", an Iraqi veteran, opens fire at nightclub patrons in Massachusetts (subscr. req.)
The Republican Nemisis, or Why Democrats No Longer Can Win Big Elections
The Republican Nemisis, or Why Democrats No Longer Can Win Big Elections
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August 12, 2005
Weekend Bits
Sheehan updates
The Who's Who of the Valerie Plame Leak
U.S. Democratic Senators: So terribly out of touch with Americans
About Sheehan: The Conservatives get it wrong
The Who's Who of the Valerie Plame Leak
U.S. Democratic Senators: So terribly out of touch with Americans
About Sheehan: The Conservatives get it wrong
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Hey, California Prius Owners!
You can now drive in carpool lanes without passengers! The permit costs $8.00 and is available HERE. Woohoo!
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50K
Today LEFT is RIGHT will reach the artificially significant milestone of 50,000 hits.
Thank you, everyone, for allowing me to express my political and social opinions, rants and occasional prejudices to you for your skeptical or inquisitive consideration. It's been a fun ride and I have no plans to get off (the ride, that is...)
Thank you, everyone, for allowing me to express my political and social opinions, rants and occasional prejudices to you for your skeptical or inquisitive consideration. It's been a fun ride and I have no plans to get off (the ride, that is...)
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FRIDAY FUN
Anticlimactic Twilight Zone Episodes
Looking for my leopard (music video)
Our tenth planet
Edward Burtynsky, Photographer
Politicians Gone Wild (to 10 funny video clips of politicians)
Lesser-Known Movie Prequels
Unusually appropriate ad placement
Wasting Time
Where's the coyote? (video)
Boob Clouds
Loose Head (video)
Toothpaste for dinner (quirky drawings/cartoons for today's culturally challenged)
Best of History
50 Word Fiction
Looking for my leopard (music video)
Our tenth planet
Edward Burtynsky, Photographer
Politicians Gone Wild (to 10 funny video clips of politicians)
Lesser-Known Movie Prequels
Unusually appropriate ad placement
Wasting Time
Where's the coyote? (video)
Boob Clouds
Loose Head (video)
Toothpaste for dinner (quirky drawings/cartoons for today's culturally challenged)
Best of History
50 Word Fiction
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August 11, 2005
If you're out and about before dawn tomorrow morning, look up into the sky and you'll see:
2005 Perseid Meteor Shower!
Cindy Sheehan
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Will This Woman Represent the Turning Point?
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The Republican Party: Of, By, and For the Criminal
From Common Dreams (snippet):
Keep moving on, folks.... Nothing new to see here. Same old same old.
On this 60th year anniversary of the atomic bombs dropped onto Japan, and as nuclear proliferation once again (thanks to the policies of the Bush-war Administration) spreads across the planet, now might be a good time to read the first-hand accounts of survivors of Hiroshima. While reading these stories, remember that these were just tiny, tiny bombs compared to today's nuclear weapons.
I think that someday nuclear energy as a fuel source will become safe and practical, and that we should continue to research the potential applications, especially for something like space tavel. However, nuclear energy's evil twin, nuclear weapons, must be abolished from the face of the planet. It is nothing but pure evil.
| GOP Paying Legal Bills of Bush Official - - - By John Solomon Despite a zero-tolerance policy on tampering with voters, the Republican Party has quietly paid hundreds of thousands of dollars to provide private defense lawyers for a former Bush campaign official charged with conspiring to keep Democrats from voting in New Hampshire. James Tobin, the president's 2004 campaign chairman for New England, is charged in New Hampshire federal court with four felonies accusing him of conspiring with a state GOP official and a GOP consultant in Virginia to jam Democratic and labor union get-out-the-vote phone banks in November 2002. A telephone firm was paid to make repeated hang-up phone calls to overwhelm the phone banks in New Hampshire and prevent them from getting Democratic voters to the polls on Election Day 2002, prosecutors allege. Republican John Sununu won a close race that day to be New Hampshire's newest senator. At the time, Tobin was the RNC's New England regional director, before moving to President Bush's 2004 re-election campaign. A top New Hampshire Party official and a GOP consultant already have pleaded guilty and cooperated with prosecutors. Tobin's indictment accuses him of specifically calling the GOP consultant to get a telephone firm to help in the scheme. "The object of the conspiracy was to deprive inhabitants of New Hampshire and more particularly qualified voters ... of their federally secured right to vote," states the latest indictment issued by a federal grand jury on May 18.... |
Keep moving on, folks.... Nothing new to see here. Same old same old.
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Good vs. Evil
On this 60th year anniversary of the atomic bombs dropped onto Japan, and as nuclear proliferation once again (thanks to the policies of the Bush-war Administration) spreads across the planet, now might be a good time to read the first-hand accounts of survivors of Hiroshima. While reading these stories, remember that these were just tiny, tiny bombs compared to today's nuclear weapons.I think that someday nuclear energy as a fuel source will become safe and practical, and that we should continue to research the potential applications, especially for something like space tavel. However, nuclear energy's evil twin, nuclear weapons, must be abolished from the face of the planet. It is nothing but pure evil.
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Midweek Bits
Methane release from Siberian tundra is the latest product of global warming
My Life Living With Depleted Uranium
One Iraqi's synopsis of today's Iraq
Information on upcoming clean energy related conferences, fairs and workshops
How to Prevent Homosexuality (Yep, many people are still living in the dark ages, mentally.)
Why suicide attackers haven't hit U.S. again
Venezuela to U.S.: Don't even think about invading us.
Eriposte at The Left Coaster does an email interview with Ambassador Joseph Wilson.
Iraq: The Greatest Prize of All (or: Why we're spending hundreds of billions of $ on that desert)
Latest EPA appointments are anti-environmentalists
My Life Living With Depleted Uranium
One Iraqi's synopsis of today's Iraq
Information on upcoming clean energy related conferences, fairs and workshops
How to Prevent Homosexuality (Yep, many people are still living in the dark ages, mentally.)
Why suicide attackers haven't hit U.S. again
Venezuela to U.S.: Don't even think about invading us.
Eriposte at The Left Coaster does an email interview with Ambassador Joseph Wilson.
Iraq: The Greatest Prize of All (or: Why we're spending hundreds of billions of $ on that desert)
Latest EPA appointments are anti-environmentalists
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August 10, 2005
That was so good I'm putting it permanently at the top of the page.
What's Wrong With America - In One Picture
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| "No matter how paranoid or conspiracy-minded you are, what the government is actually doing is worse than you imagine." - - - William Blum |
That was so good I'm putting it permanently at the top of the page.
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| ...“Support our troops”, despite its benign-sounding inclusiveness, is not a neutral statement. As our new, federal slogan, it makes “our troops” inseparable from the government that commands them, leading to high cynicism; the near impossibility of our troops not being supported should they be doing rescue work, or genuine humanitarian protection, or genuinely defending the people of this country; and the deflection of valid criticisms, such as the war’s blatant manufacture, its illegality and immorality, a crime of the highest order – by keeping the focus on our troops who are doing the sacrificing – in effect, the government hiding behind the skirts of the troops while sacrificing them. The “War on Terror” is not really a war, and it’s certainly not on terror. It’s a brand. If the government was selling it for $$ it would have a logo. Instead they’re pitching it for obedience. Do what we say, and we’ll keep on keeping you safe from those terrorists. Only we know where a lot of terrorists are, and we know where they cash their checks. This is unofficial. Officially, we cannot commit terrorism because our State Department restricts it, by definition, to the sub-national level. Anyway, as I write this the brand is getting a little worn so the “War on Terror” is in the shop for a nomenclature change. ...If we live in a country with the widest disparity between rich and poor of any country in the world, with large numbers from both classes behind bars – the poor in their prisons and the rich in their gated communities – and national economic policy is to accelerate the pace of that widening gap; if we commit the “supreme international crime” of waging aggressive war, pretending we are freeing a people whose dead and mutilated we can’t be bothered to count; if we bomb Iraqi hospitals with children in them while prosecuting Americans who dare sneak vital medicines into Iraq; if our government plants fake “news” stories here at home while killing real journalists elsewhere; if our biggest problem with prison torture is the damn digital camera that revealed it, if this is what our republic is “standing for”, then what’s the difference if it’s under God or not? - - - James Rothenberg |
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August 9, 2005
Herr Regler Groperzenegger
Teachers, Schools Superintendent Sue Governor Over School Funding Yep, the only "special interest" group in the state of California with members whose balls are larger than the governor's (kids, steroids DOES shrink your testicles), have followed through on their threat.
Don't Say You Weren't Warned
Teachers, Schools Superintendent Sue Governor Over School Funding Yep, the only "special interest" group in the state of California with members whose balls are larger than the governor's (kids, steroids DOES shrink your testicles), have followed through on their threat.
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"A Look Into the Mirror"
Here is a terrific opinion piece by Manuel Valenzuela. Much too long to repost, but here is a sample:
| ...We outside the hallowed halls of power are rightfully quick to place blame for our nation’s ills on those prostitutes, shills, lackeys and traveling salesmen who without fault descend like vultures onto the mechanisms of governance, quickly gorging themselves on the bones and crumbs the Establishment and corporate world throw their way. Having transformed all three branches of government into swinging door bordellos, making mockeries of democracy and noble governance, eroding representation of constituents and forever burying the once eminent principle of a government of the People, by the People and for the People, the parasites holding the nation hostage, in essence betraying what we once held dear, by their actions committing unforgivable acts of treason against the republic, are nonetheless granted this power, this permission to rape and plunder and sabotage our lives, by none other than tens of millions of American citizens. It is us, one and all, who grant this scum of the earth, the greatest miscreants a nation can produce, the ability and permission to betray a nation of 300 million into the malfeasant claws of the Establishment and the corporate world, a small minority whose control of America grows stronger with each passing day. It is us, one and all, who cast ballots and grant the keys to the nation to malignant vermin and unscrupulous leeches who use our unenlightened vote to enrich their bank accounts, enhance their power and further their interests, in the process gifting our nation over to those whose interests lie in controlling America and its citizens.... |
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Street-Taking 101A
Here's a new website, Take To The Streets. As the press release on Common Dreams says:
It just started, so let's give it some time to ferment. There are already listings into October. Good luck to some true American patriots!
| August 8 - Two students have launched a new website called "take to the streets.com". Its sole purpose is to list progressive activities taking place nationwide, with emphasis on demonstrations and rallies. Instead of announcements of rallies being scattered over literally hundreds of websites, these students see the need for such a list to be compiled in one place for several reasons. They believe that such information has power only if it has focus. They also believe and hope that just seeing such a list will have a positive psychological effect on large numbers of people. They believe that it will excite enthusiasm and motivate open-minded and fair-minded people all over this country to take part, and take responsibility in helping America live up to its full promise. |
It just started, so let's give it some time to ferment. There are already listings into October. Good luck to some true American patriots!
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NARAL accused of being gnarly
FactCheck.org bashes NARAL:
Okay, Progressives. We're at a crossroads here. Do we continue to be righteous and moral and better-than-the-Republicans by making sure (through organizations like FactCheck) we continue telling the truth?
Results so far: We are getting bashed/crushed/steamrolled year-after-year-after-year by the smears and lies and "Swifties" spewed incessantly by the Right-wing Attack Machine.
Or do we bite the bullet and start doing what NARAL did, which was to viciosly attack back using the Right's own weapons?
What do you do at this point when your survival is at stake?
***UPDATE*** 8/10/05: FactCheck.org accused of being less than factual in their checking.
| NARAL Falsely Accuses Supreme Court Nominee Roberts Attack ad says he supported an abortion-clinic bomber and excused violence. In fact, Roberts called clinic bombers “criminals” who should be prosecuted fully. August 9, 2005 - Summary An abortion-rights group is running an attack ad accusing Supreme Court nominee John Roberts of filing legal papers "supporting . . . a convicted clinic bomber" and of having an ideology that "leads him to excuse violence against other Americans" It shows images of a bombed clinic in Birmingham , Alabama . The ad is false. And the ad misleads when it says Roberts supported a clinic bomber. It is true that Roberts sided with the bomber and many other defendants in a civil case, but the case didn't deal with bombing at all. Roberts argued that abortion clinics who brought the suit had no right use an 1871 federal anti-discrimination statute against anti-abortion protesters who tried to blockade clinics. Eventually a 6-3 majority of the Supreme Court agreed, too. Roberts argued that blockades were already illegal under state law. The images used in the ad are especially misleading. The pictures are of a clinic bombing that happened nearly seven years after Roberts signed the legal brief in question. |
Okay, Progressives. We're at a crossroads here. Do we continue to be righteous and moral and better-than-the-Republicans by making sure (through organizations like FactCheck) we continue telling the truth?
Results so far: We are getting bashed/crushed/steamrolled year-after-year-after-year by the smears and lies and "Swifties" spewed incessantly by the Right-wing Attack Machine.
Or do we bite the bullet and start doing what NARAL did, which was to viciosly attack back using the Right's own weapons?
What do you do at this point when your survival is at stake?
***UPDATE*** 8/10/05: FactCheck.org accused of being less than factual in their checking.
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| "It has been a tough couple of years but we are doing our best to insulate our children from any stress we might be feeling. The idea that the republican party believes it appropriate to go after two career public servants because of lies told by republicans to justify a war is beyond the pale and I think the American people are beginning to realize that." - - - Ambassador Joseph Wilson |
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N.A.R.A.L.: Is it self-defeating?
Daily Kos raises an interesting complaint about many of the single-issue progressive groups such as NARAL:
Wow. That's a tough one, since often it's a six-of-one-half-dozen-of-the-other when it comes to throwing your support (incl. financially) behind a political action group that really has one of our best interests in mind. Things just seem to get more complicated every day.
| Problem is, politics can't be divorced from the issue. So NARAL goes around endorsing Republicans like Chafee because they talk a good game about choice. But then, Republicans like Chafee vote for people like Trent Lott and Bill Frist as majority leaders. And then they vote to confirm reactionary anti-privacy, anti-choice judges like Janice Brown. Meanwhile, anti-abortion Democrats like Harry Reid don't vote for Frist or Lott, and they don't vote to confirm reactionary anti-choice judges like Janice Brown. There's no doubt Chafee will vote to confirm Roberts, regardless his record on choice, and yet NARAL would still rather endorse Chafee? You know, nothing says they have to endorse an anti-abortion Democrat, but clearly they don't understand that good politics -- turning the Senate Democratic is far more beneficial for their issue (women rights) than anything the Republicans can muster. Until NARAL (and the rest of the single-issue groups) understand that building a movement is more beneficial to their causes than singular devotion to their pet causes, I can't take them seriously. Divided those groups are being picked off, one by one. Trial lawyers, you're next up. United, the Republicans stand. The groups I take seriously? MoveOn, Democracy for America, National Political Hip Hop Conference, the bloggers -- groups that are working to build an effective progressive movement, not a single issue. Because when Democrats regain power, choice, the environment, worker's rights -- the whole gamut -- will be protected. |
Wow. That's a tough one, since often it's a six-of-one-half-dozen-of-the-other when it comes to throwing your support (incl. financially) behind a political action group that really has one of our best interests in mind. Things just seem to get more complicated every day.
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Hating Partisanship
By DOUG THOMPSON
You can replace the word "partisanship" with "patriotism" in just about every case above (in spite of the author's differentiation between the two) and you'll hit the target of what's so terribly wrong with our world today.
| Aug 8, 2005, 06:41 “Why,” the email writer wanted to know, “do you hate President Bush.” I don’t. “And,” the email continued, “you obviously hate Republicans and conservatives. Why?” Again, I don’t. I don’t hate anybody. Hate is not part of how I feel about people. I do, however, have problems with the blind partisanship of the President, the Republicans and the so-called conservative movement in this country. There is a big difference between hate and concern, between patriotism and partisanship, between love of country and blind, destructive allegiance to a political party, belief or ideological position. But I do hate partisanship, be it Republican or Democratic, conservative or liberal, right or left. I hate it with every fiber of my soul, with every beat of my heart, with every conscious thought my beleaguered brain can generate. Partisanship brings out the ugliness in people. It cannot exist without the inane belief that one group of people are better than others, that only one ideal can exist in a society or that only one philosophy can determine a country’s fate or future. Partisanship runs counter to the very concept of democracy. It disallows the notion that a free people can co-exist with differing philosophies, different religious beliefs (or no religious belief) or opposing positions on an issue. Partisanship demands lockstep conformity, a unified acceptance of one, narrow point-of-view in a country where freedom of choice, individual rights and diverse opinions are supposed to be the norm. Partisanship tries to stamp out debate by declaring opposing points of view unpatriotic. It ridicules the lifestyles of others who do not adopt the structure of those who control the government. In other words, partisanship stifles freedom and without freedom there cannot be a United States of America. Until we restore freedom to our own country, it is hypocritical to think we can “export democracy” to other parts of the world. How can we teach others to embrace a form of government that no longer exists in our own country? |
You can replace the word "partisanship" with "patriotism" in just about every case above (in spite of the author's differentiation between the two) and you'll hit the target of what's so terribly wrong with our world today.