Another Republican Politician Is In Trouble for Misconduct.
Apparently Rep. Mark Foley has a craving for teen Boys.
According to the NPR audio report below..... There are apparently even more explicit messages that the public does not yet know about.
Also, we now know that the Republican leadership in Congress knew all about the Foley situation a year ago, but did not act to remove him. This put other Congressional staff at risk from this guy.
Ahhh The Republican criminal organization continues to thrive.
See report here
Audio report here
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Were Americans Sold A Bad Detainee Bill of Goods?
Americans were sold a bill of goods with the new terror detainee legislation.
This is what happens in a country where the public is completely out of touch with what is going on in Washington D.C. and does not pay attention to what laws Congress is actually passing on their behalf.
There were all sorts of provisions hidden in the legislation that give the U.S. government broad new powers and potentially interferes with key Constitutional rights.
NPR has the story
We will just have to see how it all plays out... and watch how the White House & it's Department of Justice will apply the law.
This is what happens in a country where the public is completely out of touch with what is going on in Washington D.C. and does not pay attention to what laws Congress is actually passing on their behalf.
There were all sorts of provisions hidden in the legislation that give the U.S. government broad new powers and potentially interferes with key Constitutional rights.
NPR has the story
We will just have to see how it all plays out... and watch how the White House & it's Department of Justice will apply the law.
Uncovered: The Whole Truth About the Iraq War
Since Republicans like to re-write history to fit their own reality, here is a replay of this great 2003 documentary. There seems to be a lot of denial by Republican neo-cons about what was said leading up to the war in Iraq in order to scare the American people. They wanted to do anything they could to sell the war.
This film is becoming more & more correct as time goes on. Almost all of the arguments made to justify the war (before and since it began) have been proven to be false or misleading.
A recent report from the U.S. Senate killed many of the pro-war arguments about Iraq, particularly the attempt to link Iraq to 9/11 and linking Iraq to the war on terror.
View the 2003 Documentary Here (Resize the video screen.)
"Truth crushed to the earth shall rise again"
--William Cullen Bryant
This film is becoming more & more correct as time goes on. Almost all of the arguments made to justify the war (before and since it began) have been proven to be false or misleading.
A recent report from the U.S. Senate killed many of the pro-war arguments about Iraq, particularly the attempt to link Iraq to 9/11 and linking Iraq to the war on terror.
View the 2003 Documentary Here (Resize the video screen.)
"Truth crushed to the earth shall rise again"
--William Cullen Bryant
Friday, September 29, 2006
Jack Abramoff Had Very Close Ties To White House
More Bad News For Bush & Co.
"Bombshell" Report indicates that the ties between the convicted crook and his buddies in the White House were closer than first thought.
White House: "Oh we hardly know that Abramoff Guy....we barely see or hear from him"
Ooooops!
See report below
See written report here
"Bombshell" Report indicates that the ties between the convicted crook and his buddies in the White House were closer than first thought.
White House: "Oh we hardly know that Abramoff Guy....we barely see or hear from him"
Ooooops!
See report below
See written report here
Generals Speak Out About Iraq At Congressional Hearing
Top former military officers speak out about Iraq at Congressional Hearing.
This oversight hearing was held this week by the Senate Democratic Policy Committee.
From C-Span
Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-ND) chairs a Senate Democratic Policy Cmte. meeting on the planning and conduct in the War in Iraq. Mjr. Gen. John R.S. Batiste, U.S. Army (Ret.) and other former military officers testify.
Click Here To Watch Hearings
This oversight hearing was held this week by the Senate Democratic Policy Committee.
From C-Span
Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-ND) chairs a Senate Democratic Policy Cmte. meeting on the planning and conduct in the War in Iraq. Mjr. Gen. John R.S. Batiste, U.S. Army (Ret.) and other former military officers testify.
Click Here To Watch Hearings
Why Are Americans Surprised By New Poll From Iraq?
The TV and radio pundits (& bloggers) have been going on & on over the last couple of days about a new poll out of Iraq that suggests the citizens of that country want U.S. troops out soon, and don't mind supporting the cut throats who are battling U.S. forces there. It suggests that U.S. troops have lost the support of the Iraqi people in general. The Moderate Voice is also following this story.
The big money pundits (who are supposed to be experts), and the bloggers have been eating this story up. I just heard one pundit this evening (I forgot the network....seen one you've seen them all) who stated that he was "shocked" about the new survey out of Iraq. Are these people providing news or entertainment? (If you have seen my writings, then you know my answer).
These Playdo news organizations have to create ratings for themselves and need something to talk about.
I say.... If they had been paying attention all along and if they had not started studying the Middle East and Iraq for the first time on Sept. 12th, 2001, then they would have known that this has been the sentiment in Iraq for quite some time.... in fact, this has been the public sentiment in Iraq for most of the conflict.
Two separate major studies/surveys from 2 years ago said practically the same thing. Americans seem to have very short memories.
One Report was done by The Gallup organization, and the other was sponsored by the U.S. government. Several other surveys have also been conducted since these major 2004 reports.
See reports from 2004 here and here.
So there is nothing new from this latest report.
Americans are all riled up because of the mid-term elections (more like the mid-term ceremonies) in November.
The big money pundits (who are supposed to be experts), and the bloggers have been eating this story up. I just heard one pundit this evening (I forgot the network....seen one you've seen them all) who stated that he was "shocked" about the new survey out of Iraq. Are these people providing news or entertainment? (If you have seen my writings, then you know my answer).
These Playdo news organizations have to create ratings for themselves and need something to talk about.
I say.... If they had been paying attention all along and if they had not started studying the Middle East and Iraq for the first time on Sept. 12th, 2001, then they would have known that this has been the sentiment in Iraq for quite some time.... in fact, this has been the public sentiment in Iraq for most of the conflict.
Two separate major studies/surveys from 2 years ago said practically the same thing. Americans seem to have very short memories.
One Report was done by The Gallup organization, and the other was sponsored by the U.S. government. Several other surveys have also been conducted since these major 2004 reports.
See reports from 2004 here and here.
So there is nothing new from this latest report.
Americans are all riled up because of the mid-term elections (more like the mid-term ceremonies) in November.
Trent Lott Asks Why Sunnis and Shi'ites are Killing One Another
He Goes on to Say... "They All Look The Same To Me" (so why are they fighting?)
Another indication that these people don't have a clue of what's going on.
Unreal!
Story here...
Another indication that these people don't have a clue of what's going on.
Unreal!
Story here...
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
In Memory of 2nd Lt. Emily J.T. Perez
2nd Lt. Emily J.T. Perez
(Family Photo)
1983: Born in Heidelberg, Germany. Father and grandfather both served in the U.S. Army.
1998: Moved with family to Fort Washington. While a high school student, pushed for an HIV-AIDS ministry at Peace Baptist Church in the District and was honored as an AIDS educator by the American Red Cross.
2001: Graduated from Oxon Hill High School. Enrolled in the U.S. Military Academy at West Point Ran track and sang in the gospel choir. Was the first minority female command sergeant in West Point history.
2005: Graduated from West Point in the top 10 percent of her class. Was assigned to the 204th Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. Deployed to Iraq in December as a Medical Service Corps officer.
Sept. 12, 2006: Killed in Kifl by an improvised explosive device, the first female West Point graduate to die in Iraq.
See Keith Obermann Commentary In Response to Bush and Fox News
See an unprecedented commentary from MSNBC's Keith Obermann. MSNBC broke from tradition (the tradition of major news media being the platform for the government view) and unleashed a no holds barred special commentary against Bush and Fox News.
This commentary was sparked by the recent Bill Clinton Interview on Fox News with Chris Wallace. In the interview, Wallace (as expected) tried to paint Clinton as a soft on terror leftist.....even a terrorist sympathizer who caused the 9/11 attacks. They wanted to use Clinton as a punching bag, expecting that he would take it lying down (as most Americans have been doing all this time). They also wanted to deflect attention from Bush before the November elections, by putting a negative light on someone else. They didn't expect Clinton to stand up against the mighty Republican State-Run media.
Clinton did a pretty good job standing up against the Republican machine.... but Keith Obermann makes Clinton look like the Easter Bunny.
This also shows just how bad things have gotten in this country. Perhaps a bad sign of things to come.....which is why Obermann ends with an ominous "Good Luck"... meaning that the country is so screwed up and so poorly run that we may need that luck. Yikes!!! I hate to see the country this divided...but I also see this kind of thing as necessary growing pains.
This is what TV reporters should have been doing all along. Print journalists have done only a so so job of being critical, but we haven't seen much of this at all from TV reporters & commentators. Since the Congress isn't fulfilling its oversight responsibilities, news reporters & the so called "Free Press" have to step into the role of holding people accountable, and asking critical questions. I say, it's about time that one of them broke away from the unspoken "State-Media" system to bravely question what is happening in Washington D.C. & with Fox.
Commentary below
This commentary was sparked by the recent Bill Clinton Interview on Fox News with Chris Wallace. In the interview, Wallace (as expected) tried to paint Clinton as a soft on terror leftist.....even a terrorist sympathizer who caused the 9/11 attacks. They wanted to use Clinton as a punching bag, expecting that he would take it lying down (as most Americans have been doing all this time). They also wanted to deflect attention from Bush before the November elections, by putting a negative light on someone else. They didn't expect Clinton to stand up against the mighty Republican State-Run media.
Clinton did a pretty good job standing up against the Republican machine.... but Keith Obermann makes Clinton look like the Easter Bunny.
This also shows just how bad things have gotten in this country. Perhaps a bad sign of things to come.....which is why Obermann ends with an ominous "Good Luck"... meaning that the country is so screwed up and so poorly run that we may need that luck. Yikes!!! I hate to see the country this divided...but I also see this kind of thing as necessary growing pains.
This is what TV reporters should have been doing all along. Print journalists have done only a so so job of being critical, but we haven't seen much of this at all from TV reporters & commentators. Since the Congress isn't fulfilling its oversight responsibilities, news reporters & the so called "Free Press" have to step into the role of holding people accountable, and asking critical questions. I say, it's about time that one of them broke away from the unspoken "State-Media" system to bravely question what is happening in Washington D.C. & with Fox.
Commentary below
Illinois Woman Dies Waiting In Emergency Room
Story from NPR's News & Notes:
Lake County, Ill., coroner Dr. Richard Keller talks about a black woman who died in an emergency room after waiting two hours for care. A coroner's jury is faulting the hospital, calling her death a homicide.
I Say--This report reflects the health crisis in the U.S.; a topic that I have covered here on MOA. This also supports studies that show racial disparities in healthcare.... but I don't necessarily see that as a main factor in all cases... It's more about class...and a healthcare system that is falling apart.
Listen to Report here
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See a previous post on MOA on this general subject
Lake County, Ill., coroner Dr. Richard Keller talks about a black woman who died in an emergency room after waiting two hours for care. A coroner's jury is faulting the hospital, calling her death a homicide.
I Say--This report reflects the health crisis in the U.S.; a topic that I have covered here on MOA. This also supports studies that show racial disparities in healthcare.... but I don't necessarily see that as a main factor in all cases... It's more about class...and a healthcare system that is falling apart.
Listen to Report here
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See a previous post on MOA on this general subject
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Hear How Halliburton Is Stealing Your Money
Listen to an interview with documentary film director Robert Greenwald. He discusses the role of documentary film in today's political climate and about his latest film examining war profiteering. Greenwalds latest film is "Iraq for Sale: The War Profiteers".When will the American people wake up to this madness? For Gods Sake... the Vice President ran this company before taking office and still has contact with it.
Not only is Halliburton and other private contractors stealing your money, but they have been putting their workers in uneccessary danger, and putting the U.S. mission at risk with their employment practices. Generals and troops are beginning to lose faith in these contractors and raise questions about what these companies are doing overseas.
There has been no oversight or supervision of these companies.... not from the Defense Department and not from the U.S. Congress.
Someone needs to go to jail for the crimes that have come to light. You will learn about some of this shady fraudulent activity here. It's unbelievable!!!
Listen to Interview Here. Click on the mp3 option and save to your computer.
Also watch recent Congressional Hearings on Halliburton and its thievery and mistreatment of workers. Here you will see reports from whistleblowers, former workers, and others who will bravely tell their stories. This is what you won't see from FOX News.
You will also hear from an attorney who has been trying to conduct a legitimate investigation for a civil lawsuit. However, his work has been blocked by barriers put up by Halliburton. Halliburton is built more like a mafia organization rather than a legitimate company.
Watch Video Here
Video is of a hearing from Senate Democratic Policy Committee held within the last week.
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Related Links
Previous MOA post about the struggles of Private Truck Drivers in Iraq
Homepage for Film "Iraq For Sale"
Halliburton Watch website
Commentary from the Huffington Post
Clinton Locks Horns With Fox News Host
Are Democrats finally standing up to the Republican State-Run Media Machine? Perhaps they are. It's about time.... Way too late probably....but any time is better than never.
Slick Willie- Bill Clinton fights back.
But Did Clinton really believe that he was going to a Fox News Interview that was going to be "Fair and Balanced" and non-partisan? PLEASE!!! Fox News is Americas version of State-Run media in China, Russia, Egypt or any other country that controls what people see and think.
See story here.
Watch Interview Here
When will liberals learn? In fact...when will Progressives, independents and moderates learn that what they need is a strong media infrastructure like the Ultra-Conservatives have? Democrats, Independents and Moderates don't really have their own TV networks, own few TV Stations or radio stations, have few radio programs, and don't control their own voice. They have no media to speak of..... but they wonder why their messages are not being heard.
As long as Conservatives control the media....they control the agenda and control what Americans see (and to a large extent can control what Americans think). And as long as they can do that, they will control and win elections in the long-term. Even if Democrats win part of the Congress this year, Republicans will still have the long-term advantage because they have a huge media apparatus.
Karl Roves strategy and the 2000, and 2004 elections are no accident. There is a system working behind these things. Media control (FOX News in particular) is a key part of the Republican strategy and has been since before Republicans took control of the U.S. Congress in 1994.
Non-Republicans have nothing that comes close to matching the Conservative/Republican media infrastructure.
Slick Willie- Bill Clinton fights back.
But Did Clinton really believe that he was going to a Fox News Interview that was going to be "Fair and Balanced" and non-partisan? PLEASE!!! Fox News is Americas version of State-Run media in China, Russia, Egypt or any other country that controls what people see and think.
See story here.
Watch Interview Here
When will liberals learn? In fact...when will Progressives, independents and moderates learn that what they need is a strong media infrastructure like the Ultra-Conservatives have? Democrats, Independents and Moderates don't really have their own TV networks, own few TV Stations or radio stations, have few radio programs, and don't control their own voice. They have no media to speak of..... but they wonder why their messages are not being heard.
As long as Conservatives control the media....they control the agenda and control what Americans see (and to a large extent can control what Americans think). And as long as they can do that, they will control and win elections in the long-term. Even if Democrats win part of the Congress this year, Republicans will still have the long-term advantage because they have a huge media apparatus.
Karl Roves strategy and the 2000, and 2004 elections are no accident. There is a system working behind these things. Media control (FOX News in particular) is a key part of the Republican strategy and has been since before Republicans took control of the U.S. Congress in 1994.
Non-Republicans have nothing that comes close to matching the Conservative/Republican media infrastructure.
Iraqi President Calling For Long-Term U.S. Troop Presence
As if this was not the plan all along. This was always the plan.... politicians have just not been truthful with the American public.
But the Iraqi troops will have less of an incentive to "stand up" if U.S. troops stay.
See report from The Moderate Voice
But the Iraqi troops will have less of an incentive to "stand up" if U.S. troops stay.
See report from The Moderate Voice
A Major Classified Intelligence Report Says Iraq Making Terror Worse
A leaked classified Intelligence report, called the National Intelligence Estimate (NIE), Says that the Iraq War has worsened Terrorism around the world. The Report is put out by all of the major U.S. Intelligence Agencies....also known as "The U.S. Intelligence Community".The Report sent Bush & Co. Scrambling into Spin mode to try to get their lies straight. Hopefully the public will begin to see through the neo-Conservative bull....
Read report here.
Bin Laden Dead?
*sniff sniff* .......*sniff sniff sniff*
Ahhh yesss.... the funky smell of Karl Rove has filled the air..... all around this story.
Bin Laden Dead?
First they chase him and lose him..... then they can't find him for years....and within the last year or so the trail has gone completely cold with no one having the slightest clue about where to find him.
But now all of a sudden....around election time.... the U.S. seems to know for sure that he's dead....and even how he died? Hmmmmm O.k. possible certainly....but with this governments reputation, you can't accept what they say.
I'd like to see the body please. I'm from the Show-Me State.
The French government.... one of the alleged sources for the story, is already downplaying the report. This further indicates that it's probably another Rovism. Read the latest on the story.
How many of these reports have we heard over the past 5 years?
Ahhh yesss.... the funky smell of Karl Rove has filled the air..... all around this story.
Bin Laden Dead?
First they chase him and lose him..... then they can't find him for years....and within the last year or so the trail has gone completely cold with no one having the slightest clue about where to find him.
But now all of a sudden....around election time.... the U.S. seems to know for sure that he's dead....and even how he died? Hmmmmm O.k. possible certainly....but with this governments reputation, you can't accept what they say.
I'd like to see the body please. I'm from the Show-Me State.
The French government.... one of the alleged sources for the story, is already downplaying the report. This further indicates that it's probably another Rovism. Read the latest on the story.
How many of these reports have we heard over the past 5 years?
Monday, September 25, 2006
George Allen In The News Again
It appears that Good Old Boy George Allen has been outed as a racist....by at least three of his college buddies. They have admitted that Allen regularly used racial slurs in College.This comes after he used the slur against the East Indian (American born) staffer of his opponent, suggesting in his comment that the staffer was not American and should not be welcomed in his own country. And it also comes after it was revealed that Allen belonged to racist organizations.
The problem is.... He is running in Virginia... a Red State where such behavior may not matter to the mostly White Conservative voters. This racist could still win the election to keep his seat, as disgusting as that is to imagine. This is like Klan leader David Duke running for election in Gut Bucket Mississippi more than 15 years ago. I remember that story well. Duke didn't lose by much....not as much as most people would think. Nothing surprises me anymore in these United States of Amerikkka when it comes to matters of race. Anything is possible.
Read updated story from Truthdig.
The Field Negro has also posted on this subject.
U.S. Moves Closer to War With Iran
More Signs Indicate That the U.S. is Preparing For A Military Confrontation With Iran
The U.S. Military has received orders to prepare for deployment to the region. This information from Time Magazine matches up with earlier reports by veteran reporter Seymour Hersh.
Also listen to an excellent interview from the Diane Rehm Public Radio Program. The subject of the discussion is Iran...and the possible U.S. attack and blockade of that country.
Guests
Fathali Moghaddam, professor of psychology, Georgetown University author of "From the Terrorists' Point of View: What They Experience and Why They Come to Destroy"
Romesh Ratnesar, Assisting Managing Editor, TIME magazine
David Ignatius, Washington Post columnist
Listen to Program Here
Click here for direct audio link
Could an attack on Iran be the October Surprise that Karl Rove is talking about?
It is quite possible. Read here.
I am certain that any "surprise" will be war or terrorism related because that is the main game for the neo-Conservative Republicans running the country.
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Previous Blog Entries on This Topic
Iran Given Deadline
Earlier Report from Seymour Hersh
The U.S. Military has received orders to prepare for deployment to the region. This information from Time Magazine matches up with earlier reports by veteran reporter Seymour Hersh.
Also listen to an excellent interview from the Diane Rehm Public Radio Program. The subject of the discussion is Iran...and the possible U.S. attack and blockade of that country.
Guests
Fathali Moghaddam, professor of psychology, Georgetown University author of "From the Terrorists' Point of View: What They Experience and Why They Come to Destroy"
Romesh Ratnesar, Assisting Managing Editor, TIME magazine
David Ignatius, Washington Post columnist
Listen to Program Here
Click here for direct audio link
Could an attack on Iran be the October Surprise that Karl Rove is talking about?
It is quite possible. Read here.
I am certain that any "surprise" will be war or terrorism related because that is the main game for the neo-Conservative Republicans running the country.
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Previous Blog Entries on This Topic
Iran Given Deadline
Earlier Report from Seymour Hersh
Hezbollah Refuses to Disarm
As many predicted, Hezbollah is not giving up its weapons
This is yet another sign of Israels failure. I called it several weeks ago when the Israel/Hezbollah conflict was just beginning. I stated that Israel would fail in its military strategy to fight terrorism in Lebanon. Why? Because you can't defeat terrorism with warplanes, warships, tanks & soldiers. In fact, Israels war strategy (taken from the U.S. playbook) has had the opposite affect than what was intended. Hezbollah has come out of the conflict in a stronger position, not a weaker one.
Israels failure to defeat terrorism with military power should be a clue to the United States, which is finally beginning to see the limits of military power in its fight against terrorism. In fact, the pro-war approach continues to have the opposite affect against terrorism.
This is yet another sign of Israels failure. I called it several weeks ago when the Israel/Hezbollah conflict was just beginning. I stated that Israel would fail in its military strategy to fight terrorism in Lebanon. Why? Because you can't defeat terrorism with warplanes, warships, tanks & soldiers. In fact, Israels war strategy (taken from the U.S. playbook) has had the opposite affect than what was intended. Hezbollah has come out of the conflict in a stronger position, not a weaker one.
Israels failure to defeat terrorism with military power should be a clue to the United States, which is finally beginning to see the limits of military power in its fight against terrorism. In fact, the pro-war approach continues to have the opposite affect against terrorism.
Children Found Dead in East St. Louis
Update to earlier report.
I still don't understand this kind of thing/Why did it have to happen?
Of course there is probably a scientific explanation for how... But no practical, common sense, real world explanation for it.
I still don't understand this kind of thing/Why did it have to happen?
Of course there is probably a scientific explanation for how... But no practical, common sense, real world explanation for it.
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Replay of MLK Speech
What Would MLK Say About the Present State of the World?
Find out here. One of my favorite MLK speeches.
Find out here. One of my favorite MLK speeches.
Ed Gordon Out As NPR Host
Ed Gordon is out as the host of his own program (News and Notes) on NPR.
Farai Chideya is in.
Differences between Gordon and NPR could not be reconciled.
See reports here and here.
The program News and Notes (formerly the Tavis Smiley Show) is one of the most important, most informative, and most insightful daily programs run by African Americans today....that goes for radio or TV. The audience is mixed..... (as it should be).
Unfortunately, people have not been supporting the program in great numbers. More Black support would be great....but it's not surprising that the show has not been getting the support from Blacks.... There is a wave of anti-intellectualism that is crippling the so-called "Black Community" (I hate that term.... it segregates Black folks in so many negative ways IMO).
There are too many Blacks who would rather watch brainless BET (Black Exploitation Television), or VH1 with its sick Flavor of Love (What a disgrace to Public Enemy), or listen to the poison on Black radio than would listen to something educational and informative like NPR's News and Notes.....or NPR in general.
I listen (try to anyway) to NPR programs everyday.
I look forward to hearing more of Farai.... I love her interview style.
Farai Chideya is in.
Differences between Gordon and NPR could not be reconciled.
See reports here and here.
The program News and Notes (formerly the Tavis Smiley Show) is one of the most important, most informative, and most insightful daily programs run by African Americans today....that goes for radio or TV. The audience is mixed..... (as it should be).
Unfortunately, people have not been supporting the program in great numbers. More Black support would be great....but it's not surprising that the show has not been getting the support from Blacks.... There is a wave of anti-intellectualism that is crippling the so-called "Black Community" (I hate that term.... it segregates Black folks in so many negative ways IMO).
There are too many Blacks who would rather watch brainless BET (Black Exploitation Television), or VH1 with its sick Flavor of Love (What a disgrace to Public Enemy), or listen to the poison on Black radio than would listen to something educational and informative like NPR's News and Notes.....or NPR in general.
I listen (try to anyway) to NPR programs everyday.
I look forward to hearing more of Farai.... I love her interview style.
People Are Losing Their Minds In St. Louis Area
It must be something in the air in St. Louis that is causing people to flip out....perhaps it's the pollution. But people in my area have been losing their minds at a breakneck pace over the past week. What in the hell is going on?
Last week a woman slit the throat of a young mother and stole her newborn baby (Abby Woods).... luckily she was found a few days later.
Now a woman in East St. Louis has had her baby cut right out of her womb. We are hearing about more and more of these cases. The victim was left to bleed to death by the suspect. If that isn't bad enough, the victims' 3 other children are now missing.
A suspect is being questioned. Motive not 100% clear at this point.
See reports here and here.
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With so many children available for adoption, why do people resort to this kind of behavior? Granted, we don't yet know the motive in the East St. Louis case, but wanting a baby tends to be the main motivation in cases such as this.
Last week a woman slit the throat of a young mother and stole her newborn baby (Abby Woods).... luckily she was found a few days later.
Now a woman in East St. Louis has had her baby cut right out of her womb. We are hearing about more and more of these cases. The victim was left to bleed to death by the suspect. If that isn't bad enough, the victims' 3 other children are now missing.
A suspect is being questioned. Motive not 100% clear at this point.
See reports here and here.
_________________________
With so many children available for adoption, why do people resort to this kind of behavior? Granted, we don't yet know the motive in the East St. Louis case, but wanting a baby tends to be the main motivation in cases such as this.
First They Were Called Refugees, Now They Are Katricians
Gunshop owners in Houston take advantage of Katrina disaster to try to get more customers for their bottom line. A crude way to exploit a bad situation & get more business IMO.
The racism and classism (which was always there) is now coming to the surface.
See Article Below...
Arm Against 'Katricians,' Gun Dealers Tell Houston
Hurricane evacuees protest as hostility spills out over rising crime rates in the city.
By Miguel Bustillo
Times Staff Writer
September 18, 2006
HOUSTON — When the "Katricians" rise up in violence, Houstonians had better be packing some serious heat. That's the inflammatory message of a new gun-shop commercial on the radio that gives Hurricane Katrina evacuees a vaguely alien-sounding name, and advises Texans to take up arms to defend themselves against crimes committed by the newcomers.
"When the 'Katricians' themselves are quoted as saying the crime rate is gonna go up if they don't get more free rent, then it's time to get your concealed-handgun license," warns the radio ad by Jim Pruett, who co-hosts a bombastic talk-radio show and owns Jim Pruett's Guns & Ammo, a self-styled "anti-terrorist headquarters" that sells knives, shotguns, semi-automatic rifles and other weapons. As Pruett describes the dangers posed by "Katricians," glass can be heard shattering, and a bell tolling ominously.
The radio spot highlights what many gun-store owners say is a hot trend in Houston: trade in weapons amid a surge in the homicide rate that police attribute to the more than 100,000 hurricane evacuees still in the city. Though the gun sale reports are largely anecdotal, Texas officials said applications for concealed-weapons permits were up statewide: 60,328 from Jan. 1 to Sept. 1 this year, compared with 46,298 for the same period last year.
Continue Reading here...
The racism and classism (which was always there) is now coming to the surface.
See Article Below...
Arm Against 'Katricians,' Gun Dealers Tell Houston
Hurricane evacuees protest as hostility spills out over rising crime rates in the city.
By Miguel Bustillo
Times Staff Writer
September 18, 2006
HOUSTON — When the "Katricians" rise up in violence, Houstonians had better be packing some serious heat. That's the inflammatory message of a new gun-shop commercial on the radio that gives Hurricane Katrina evacuees a vaguely alien-sounding name, and advises Texans to take up arms to defend themselves against crimes committed by the newcomers.
"When the 'Katricians' themselves are quoted as saying the crime rate is gonna go up if they don't get more free rent, then it's time to get your concealed-handgun license," warns the radio ad by Jim Pruett, who co-hosts a bombastic talk-radio show and owns Jim Pruett's Guns & Ammo, a self-styled "anti-terrorist headquarters" that sells knives, shotguns, semi-automatic rifles and other weapons. As Pruett describes the dangers posed by "Katricians," glass can be heard shattering, and a bell tolling ominously.
The radio spot highlights what many gun-store owners say is a hot trend in Houston: trade in weapons amid a surge in the homicide rate that police attribute to the more than 100,000 hurricane evacuees still in the city. Though the gun sale reports are largely anecdotal, Texas officials said applications for concealed-weapons permits were up statewide: 60,328 from Jan. 1 to Sept. 1 this year, compared with 46,298 for the same period last year.
Continue Reading here...
Republicans Losing Grip on Rural Voters?
According to a new report, Republicans can no longer count on rural voters for automatic support.
Listen/Read report here.
Listen/Read report here.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Only 25% of Americans Approve of the U.S. Congress
Are Republican Heads Back on the Chopping Block?
Only 25% of Americans Approve of the U.S. Congress According to New Survey.
Bush's "boost" also seems to be fading.
See report here....
Only 25% of Americans Approve of the U.S. Congress According to New Survey.
Bush's "boost" also seems to be fading.
See report here....
Jesus Camp Molding Next Generation of Christian Radicals
Update!
Listen to great interview with Author Michelle Goldberg about the rise of the Christian Nationalist movement. Click and save Mp3 to your computers.... The link will only be archived for about 1 year.
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Right Wing Religious Conservatives are indoctrinating the next generation of Religious Right activists, hoping to steer them into politics & other parts of the Right wing establishment.
Their aim is to steer the U.S. more in the direction of a Conservative Christian State, where religion is officially merged with government/politics. They are already wrapping the flag around the cross. Constantinian Christianity is what it's called.
They (Christian Right activists & politicians) have also been reaching and influencing college age people with this kind of strategy. See one of my previous postings here about Patrick Henry College in the D.C. area... one of many colleges controlled or heavily influenced by the Radical Conservative Christian Movement.
The extremists in the Muslim world have the Madrassas where youngsters are brainwashed with hate, Israel (The Jewish Religious State) has their youngsters signing bombs used to kill babies of a different faith, and the U.S. has their version of this religious extremism.
This is bad for America in my opinion. If this is what the future looks like, then kill me now.
I'd rather be dead. An American (Christian) version of the religious madness that we see in the Muslim world, in Israel and other parts of the world would be a disaster.
Religious lunacy is unhealthy for the individual and for the nation as a whole..... It's bad for any country. And it doesn't matter what kind of package you wrap it in.... religious lunacy is religious lunacy.
This brand of radical religion has a way of stripping away almost all logical thought, leaving emotionalism in its place. Sensible thought and sanity are then lost. This is what makes this stuff so dangerous. Is this what America wants out of its future political, business and religious leaders? How about our future teachers and scholars? Can you imagine a future where certain doctors or hospitals won't help you because you're "not saved" or you are of a different faith? Americas Founding Fathers were terrified about this kind of Country emerging. This is why they crafted the government and its Constitution so carefully. They would be disappointed and concerned about the prospect of this kind of America.
You probably won't see the things I just described tomorrow when you wake up..... and you probably won't see it next month, next year, or even 5, 10, or 15 years from now. However, the U.S. seems to be slowly creeping towards this kind of nonsense. It's really not that far fetched and in historical terms.....it may not be far off. Some of us could see the U.S. become a "Taliban" style country within our lifetimes (although not as severe as the Taliban in Afganistan....but a much lighter version of it).
I despise ALL forms of religious extremism..... This is one of the main things that hurts & divides civilization today. With all the wars that religion fuels, this is the last thing that we need.
I found a great commentary about "Jesus Camp" that basically expresses how I feel about the matter.
Also Check Video Preview of Jesus Camp Below....
Listen to great interview with Author Michelle Goldberg about the rise of the Christian Nationalist movement. Click and save Mp3 to your computers.... The link will only be archived for about 1 year.
****************************
****************************
Right Wing Religious Conservatives are indoctrinating the next generation of Religious Right activists, hoping to steer them into politics & other parts of the Right wing establishment.
Their aim is to steer the U.S. more in the direction of a Conservative Christian State, where religion is officially merged with government/politics. They are already wrapping the flag around the cross. Constantinian Christianity is what it's called.
They (Christian Right activists & politicians) have also been reaching and influencing college age people with this kind of strategy. See one of my previous postings here about Patrick Henry College in the D.C. area... one of many colleges controlled or heavily influenced by the Radical Conservative Christian Movement.
The extremists in the Muslim world have the Madrassas where youngsters are brainwashed with hate, Israel (The Jewish Religious State) has their youngsters signing bombs used to kill babies of a different faith, and the U.S. has their version of this religious extremism.
This is bad for America in my opinion. If this is what the future looks like, then kill me now.
I'd rather be dead. An American (Christian) version of the religious madness that we see in the Muslim world, in Israel and other parts of the world would be a disaster.
Religious lunacy is unhealthy for the individual and for the nation as a whole..... It's bad for any country. And it doesn't matter what kind of package you wrap it in.... religious lunacy is religious lunacy.
This brand of radical religion has a way of stripping away almost all logical thought, leaving emotionalism in its place. Sensible thought and sanity are then lost. This is what makes this stuff so dangerous. Is this what America wants out of its future political, business and religious leaders? How about our future teachers and scholars? Can you imagine a future where certain doctors or hospitals won't help you because you're "not saved" or you are of a different faith? Americas Founding Fathers were terrified about this kind of Country emerging. This is why they crafted the government and its Constitution so carefully. They would be disappointed and concerned about the prospect of this kind of America.
You probably won't see the things I just described tomorrow when you wake up..... and you probably won't see it next month, next year, or even 5, 10, or 15 years from now. However, the U.S. seems to be slowly creeping towards this kind of nonsense. It's really not that far fetched and in historical terms.....it may not be far off. Some of us could see the U.S. become a "Taliban" style country within our lifetimes (although not as severe as the Taliban in Afganistan....but a much lighter version of it).
I despise ALL forms of religious extremism..... This is one of the main things that hurts & divides civilization today. With all the wars that religion fuels, this is the last thing that we need.
I found a great commentary about "Jesus Camp" that basically expresses how I feel about the matter.
Also Check Video Preview of Jesus Camp Below....
Parents Attempt to Force Daughter to Have Abortion
Parents Attempt to Force Daughter to Have Abortion Because Father of Baby is Black
Is this 2006 or 1956? Yikes!!!
A couple in Maine kidnap 19 year old daughter and try to take her across State lines to force her to get an abortion after learning she was pregnant by her Black boyfriend.
This is like lifting up the rug in an emaculate home and finding the dirt underneath.... it's another case of America showing it's underside (or other side).
I believe that this couple has only expressed the fear & prejudice that many (perhaps most) white families harbor deep inside.
There is still a huge stigma in these so-called "United" States when it comes to the issue of interracial relationships, especially as it relates to Black males. It is still unacceptable for most non-Black women to bring a Black guy home. It is seen as unacceptable and a disgrace to the families of these women, especially white and Asian families.
Now the guy in this case is probably a no good deadbeat. The major side issue here is why women are attracted to these kinds of males... (I don't want to call them "men" because they are really boys. They don't behave like men). But this is another issue....one that I have written about here on this blog. The problem of women who prefer to date creeps is something that annoys the hell out of me. And it is guys like this who make it hard for respectable Black men.... It's all about the image that is put out about men who look like me. The image of Black men has basically been destroyed.
In other words, this stigma problem is not only a problem for Black men who are no good deadbeats. It's a problem across the board. This guy could have been a Black Pope, and the daughter of this couple still would have been ostracized.
I have run into this problem myself (although not to the extent displayed in the above report). But I have been told several times by non-Black women that they were not interested based on my race. Some have told me that their families would not approve. And sometimes they won't come right out & tell me that race is a problem for them....but they pretty much let you know the reason why in other ways....and I always pick up on the signals/message.
The stereotypes faced by Black men can have a crippling affect.
There are so many issues that are connected to this story... I could write forever... There is class, race, modern black culture, Hip Hop culture (and its destructive images), the role of mass media, the lack of Black fathers or positive role models and the impact that this has on Black males, abortion, parenting, women and the "Bad Boy" sickness that so many of them are infected with....and the impact of Pop culture in general (the promotion of sex and having babies out of wedlock, and the pressure on young women).
This story is a symptom of a deeper problem in the society. And it's still a Taboo subject. One of the elephants in the room that everyone can see, but that no one wants to talk about.
Is this 2006 or 1956? Yikes!!!
A couple in Maine kidnap 19 year old daughter and try to take her across State lines to force her to get an abortion after learning she was pregnant by her Black boyfriend.
This is like lifting up the rug in an emaculate home and finding the dirt underneath.... it's another case of America showing it's underside (or other side).
I believe that this couple has only expressed the fear & prejudice that many (perhaps most) white families harbor deep inside.
There is still a huge stigma in these so-called "United" States when it comes to the issue of interracial relationships, especially as it relates to Black males. It is still unacceptable for most non-Black women to bring a Black guy home. It is seen as unacceptable and a disgrace to the families of these women, especially white and Asian families.
Now the guy in this case is probably a no good deadbeat. The major side issue here is why women are attracted to these kinds of males... (I don't want to call them "men" because they are really boys. They don't behave like men). But this is another issue....one that I have written about here on this blog. The problem of women who prefer to date creeps is something that annoys the hell out of me. And it is guys like this who make it hard for respectable Black men.... It's all about the image that is put out about men who look like me. The image of Black men has basically been destroyed.
In other words, this stigma problem is not only a problem for Black men who are no good deadbeats. It's a problem across the board. This guy could have been a Black Pope, and the daughter of this couple still would have been ostracized.
I have run into this problem myself (although not to the extent displayed in the above report). But I have been told several times by non-Black women that they were not interested based on my race. Some have told me that their families would not approve. And sometimes they won't come right out & tell me that race is a problem for them....but they pretty much let you know the reason why in other ways....and I always pick up on the signals/message.
The stereotypes faced by Black men can have a crippling affect.
There are so many issues that are connected to this story... I could write forever... There is class, race, modern black culture, Hip Hop culture (and its destructive images), the role of mass media, the lack of Black fathers or positive role models and the impact that this has on Black males, abortion, parenting, women and the "Bad Boy" sickness that so many of them are infected with....and the impact of Pop culture in general (the promotion of sex and having babies out of wedlock, and the pressure on young women).
This story is a symptom of a deeper problem in the society. And it's still a Taboo subject. One of the elephants in the room that everyone can see, but that no one wants to talk about.
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Lashawn Barber: There’s a rage in Harlem!
African American Political Pundit says: Black Conservative Blogger Lashawn Barber loves the fact that Bill Clinton and a group of white liberal bloggers joined together in Harlem without including Blacks and hispanics in the conversation.
Well, Ms. Barber, one has to wonder how many times you have been excluded from meetings with white conservative bloggers who see you as just another House Negro? Racism in america is not Republican or Democrat, Liberal or Conservative -its just racism.
P.S. Racism is not comedy.
Check out lashawn barber
There’s a rage in Harlem!
Well, Ms. Barber, one has to wonder how many times you have been excluded from meetings with white conservative bloggers who see you as just another House Negro? Racism in america is not Republican or Democrat, Liberal or Conservative -its just racism.
P.S. Racism is not comedy.
Check out lashawn barber
There’s a rage in Harlem!
I rarely blog about what liberal bloggers are doing, but there’s some dissension among the ranks worth mentioning.
Black liberal bloggers are upset about the lack of color at last week’s Slick Willie-liberal bloggers lunch in Harlem. Clinton’s keeping an office there, don’t you know. “Colored” liberal blogger Liza Sabater, fellow Blogher Advisory Board member, had some questions for lunch organizer Peter Daou, blogger, creator of the Daou Report, and blog advisor to Sen. Hillary Clinton:
What does it mean though that there are 20 bloggers invited to this lunch and not one is black or latino? What does it mean for this group of bloggers to be patting themselves on the backs for being with Clinton when they are all in Harlem and not one of them is a person of color? What does it mean for these people to be there and have not one of themn (sic) raise this issue in their blogs?
Continue reading Bill Clinton and the White Liberal Bloggers
African American Political Pundit is a regular contributor to Mirror on America
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Clinton meets with Lilly White Blogger Group in Harlem
African American Political Pundit says: Bill Clinton took time out of his busy schedule to meet in "Harlem" with a group of bloggers who happen to be majority white. What! The question from this meeting is why are black bloggers not included in discussions of this type. Is there a blogosphere and a blackosphere? Separate but unequal? More >>>
Source: jack and jill politics
Racial Politics This Week -- A Roundup
Cross-posted at MyDD
More >>>
I Guess it's just a Mirror on America...
Source: jack and jill politics
Racial Politics This Week -- A Roundup
Cross-posted at MyDD
This week, a controversial photo snapped at a blogger lunch in Harlem with Bill Clinton is under much discussion in the progressive blackosphere. You can follow the conversation here, here, here, and here And responses here and here. I know many of the bloggers in the photo -- including Chris Bowers and Matt Stoller of MyDD -- to be tireless workers against racism in America. I agree with Jeralyn Merritt at TalkLeft that:
More >>>
I Guess it's just a Mirror on America...
Democrats Lead Over Republicans Shrinking?
As I have been saying all along, the predictions of a takeover of Congress by Democrats may be too ambitious. Recent polls are showing that the Democrats' lead over Republicans has shrunk. Several individual races show Democrats running neck and neck with Republican opponents.
I have never seen the huge Democrat victory that has been predicted. The best that the Democrats can hope to do is gain control of the House of Representatives, way short of a full takeover of Congress. This will only allow them to block legislation and to hold hearings. It's not likely that the Republican controlled Senate would agree to consider any legislation put forward by a House of Representatives Controlled by Democrats.
To keep up with the 2006 Congressional Elections (to be held in November) you can click here for access to election projection maps and other resources. (at bottom of page).
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The Moderate Voice is also covering this story.
I have never seen the huge Democrat victory that has been predicted. The best that the Democrats can hope to do is gain control of the House of Representatives, way short of a full takeover of Congress. This will only allow them to block legislation and to hold hearings. It's not likely that the Republican controlled Senate would agree to consider any legislation put forward by a House of Representatives Controlled by Democrats.
To keep up with the 2006 Congressional Elections (to be held in November) you can click here for access to election projection maps and other resources. (at bottom of page).
_______________
The Moderate Voice is also covering this story.
Court Rejects Voter ID Requirement in Missouri
Another Defeat for Republicans
Republicans have been involved in a carefully crafted strategy to attempt to disinfranchise and discourage urban & low income voters in future elections. How have they been doing this? They have been creating new laws and procedures to put up obstacles for voters across the country- particularly voters who are likely to vote Democrat. Republicans have said that their plan was part of an effort to prevent voter fraud. However, the real aim is to create an advantage for their Party in future elections, 2006 and 2008 especially.
They have been largely successful at accomplishing their goal, however, in a few States (Missouri and Georgia in particular) Republicans have run into obstacles of their own. Courts in these States have rejected their voter ID plan.
Missouri was the latest State to reject the plan, when a Judge struck down the law last week. This is important for the State of Missouri because the Senate Race- McCaskill (D) Vs. Talent (R)- in 06 and the Presidential and Governors Races in 08 are all expected to be extremely close.
Article Below
Judge strikes down Missouri voter ID law
KELLY WIESE
Associated Press
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - A state judge struck down Missouri's new voter identification law Thursday as an unconstitutional infringement on the right to vote.
Cole County Circuit Judge Richard Callahan was considering two combined lawsuits claiming the requirement that people show a federal or Missouri-issued photo ID at the polls starting in November was an unconstitutional burden on voters.
Callahan's ruling bars the photo ID requirement from being enforced. He said the requirement is a particular burden to women and the poor. That's because a separate Missouri law requires those getting or renewing a driver's license to show they are lawfully in the country, generally with a birth certificate or passport.
Those whose name has changed, such as some married women, also must provide documents showing those changes. While the ID to vote would be free, underlying paperwork has a cost, and the judge said that's unacceptable.
Without the added requirements to obtain a license or state ID card, the judge ruled, the law might not be so burdensome.
"While a license to drive may be just that: a license and not a right. The right to vote is also just that: a right and not a license," the judge wrote.
Continue Reading Here
________________
Related Articles
National Review Covers Georgia and Missouri cases
Missouri ends ID program, but may try to appeal
Republicans have been involved in a carefully crafted strategy to attempt to disinfranchise and discourage urban & low income voters in future elections. How have they been doing this? They have been creating new laws and procedures to put up obstacles for voters across the country- particularly voters who are likely to vote Democrat. Republicans have said that their plan was part of an effort to prevent voter fraud. However, the real aim is to create an advantage for their Party in future elections, 2006 and 2008 especially.
They have been largely successful at accomplishing their goal, however, in a few States (Missouri and Georgia in particular) Republicans have run into obstacles of their own. Courts in these States have rejected their voter ID plan.
Missouri was the latest State to reject the plan, when a Judge struck down the law last week. This is important for the State of Missouri because the Senate Race- McCaskill (D) Vs. Talent (R)- in 06 and the Presidential and Governors Races in 08 are all expected to be extremely close.
Article Below
Judge strikes down Missouri voter ID law
KELLY WIESE
Associated Press
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - A state judge struck down Missouri's new voter identification law Thursday as an unconstitutional infringement on the right to vote.
Cole County Circuit Judge Richard Callahan was considering two combined lawsuits claiming the requirement that people show a federal or Missouri-issued photo ID at the polls starting in November was an unconstitutional burden on voters.
Callahan's ruling bars the photo ID requirement from being enforced. He said the requirement is a particular burden to women and the poor. That's because a separate Missouri law requires those getting or renewing a driver's license to show they are lawfully in the country, generally with a birth certificate or passport.
Those whose name has changed, such as some married women, also must provide documents showing those changes. While the ID to vote would be free, underlying paperwork has a cost, and the judge said that's unacceptable.
Without the added requirements to obtain a license or state ID card, the judge ruled, the law might not be so burdensome.
"While a license to drive may be just that: a license and not a right. The right to vote is also just that: a right and not a license," the judge wrote.
Continue Reading Here
________________
Related Articles
National Review Covers Georgia and Missouri cases
Missouri ends ID program, but may try to appeal
Discussion About The Rural and Urban Divide in America
Listen to a recent discussion about the Urban & Rural divide in the United States, and how this has changed politics. The discussion explains how and why the Republican revolution has been so strong.
Listen to program here
(click the Mp3 option and save to your computer. Archives are kept for only 6 months).
Listen to program here
(click the Mp3 option and save to your computer. Archives are kept for only 6 months).
Report on Republican Advantage
Amy Goodman reports on the Republican Party and its advantage in future elections.I have been trying to explain this to people for years. The points mentioned in the report are the reasons why Republicans win elections.
The report gives a review of a new book entitled: "One Party Country: The Republican Plan for Dominance in the 21st Century." The book was written by journalists Tom Hamburger and Peter Wallsten.
Watch/Listen to report from Democracy Now
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Bonus
Listen to a more detailed interview from the Diane Rehm Radio Program.
Former General Supports Withdrawal From Iraq
Exiting Iraq: Gen. William Odom's View
The Angry Independent says:
General Odom hits the nail right on the head
Summary
Lt. Gen. William E. Odom, U.S. Army (Ret.) -- former director of the National Security Agency -- says it's dangerous to build an Iraqi army until there's a stable government. And he warns that Iraq will make its decisions "with a gun, not a vote."
Listen to report here
The Angry Independent says:
General Odom hits the nail right on the head
Summary
Lt. Gen. William E. Odom, U.S. Army (Ret.) -- former director of the National Security Agency -- says it's dangerous to build an Iraqi army until there's a stable government. And he warns that Iraq will make its decisions "with a gun, not a vote."
Listen to report here
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Bush To America: Lets Torture our Enemies
African American Political Pundit says: I'm in agreement with this sunday's Washington Post Post editorial regarding George W. Bush. It's an editorial that allows us all to look at the mind set of the people running America. Here is some of what the editorial has to say:
A License to Abuse
Source: The Washington Post.com
Mr. Bush also wants the CIA to be able to treat its detainees to such practices as "cold cell," or induced hypothermia, in which detainees are held naked in near-freezing temperatures and repeatedly doused with water; "long standing," in which prisoners are handcuffed in an uncomfortable standing position and forced to remain there for up to 40 hours; and prolonged sleep deprivation.
Throughout the world and for decades, such practices have been called torture. That's what the United States called them when they were used by the Soviet KGB. As the president himself tacitly acknowledges, they violate Geneva and other international conventions as well as current U.S. law. News that the United States has used these techniques -- as well as waterboarding, an ancient torture technique that simulates drowning -- has gravely damaged U.S. standing in the world and the fight against terrorism. It increases the danger that captured U.S. servicemen will be exposed to similar treatment by nations that might otherwise feel obliged to respect the Geneva standards.
When Mr. Bush was asked Friday whether he wasn't in effect seeking sanction for torture, he responded with an evasion. He claimed that the Geneva Conventions' Common Article 3 is "very vague" and that his proposal would provide "clarity" for CIA professionals. In fact, the opposite is true.More >>>
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African American Political Pundit is a regular contributor to Mirror on America
Monday, September 11, 2006
Soulful Sounds For The Day
Soulful Sounds for the Day
(Right Click, Open In New Window)
Gladys Knight
Marvin Gaye
Curtis Mayfield
Mike James Kirkland
Joe Sample
Donny Hathaway
James Brown
Gil Scott Heron
John Coltrane
Bob Marley
Mayfield
George Benson
Grover Washington Jr.
(Right Click, Open In New Window)
Gladys Knight
Marvin Gaye
Curtis Mayfield
Mike James Kirkland
Joe Sample
Donny Hathaway
James Brown
Gil Scott Heron
John Coltrane
Bob Marley
Mayfield
George Benson
Grover Washington Jr.
Sunday, September 10, 2006
The War On Terror Explained
The On Point Public Radio program examines the "war on terror".
Topics:
--Bush Administration changes the CIA detention policies
--An examination of the war on terror.
Fast Forward to the Second half of the audio program to hear an excellent analysis of what is really going on with the "War On Terror" from Mr. Ian Lustick, professor of political science at the University of Pennsylvania. He gives one of the best explanations yet of the mistakes and fundamental flaws of the governments current "War On Terror". Lustick echoes what I have been saying for the last few years about the so called "War On Terror". He gives a clear explanation for why the "War On Terror" has not & will not work.
I also believe that the Bush administration attempt to connect the war on terror with the need for the U.S. to stay in Iraq will only hurt the Bush administration. Because they have put all their eggs in one basket... Iraq (and The Wrong basket!). By linking everything to Iraq (which was not really part of the War against Al Qaeda and extremism before 9/11) Bush is risking everything. If the Iraq adventure fails, so does the War on Terror and all of the Bush policies. The Bush policies of using military power as a primary tool against terrorism is not working and in fact plays right into the hands of the extremists, feeding their causes. Furthermore, the limits of U.S. military power have been exposed by the current approach.
The recent arrests in Great Britain- how was that accomplished? Through intelligence, diplomatic cooperation between countries, and through good law enforcement, OR through the dropping of bombs? The answer is clear.
This is also another indication that the U.S. government is not (and had no intentions of) leaving Iraq. By putting the entire Bush legacy, and the reputation of the U.S. into Iraq, the government was practically guaranteeing that the U.S. would be in Iraq indefinitely. U.S. politicians would not make such bold statements about Iraq without the intention of pouring billions more of our money into that country and committing troops there for the long term (i'm talking 10-20 years at least). U.S. leaders have known this fact all along and have been playing with the minds and fears of the American people by even suggesting that troops would be coming home.
The Bush administration, and many members of Congress have known that this idea of troop withdrawal was a lie all along.
I wonder when will the American people finally catch on?
Listen to program here. Click Audio links at top.
The second half of the program is especially interesting. As mentioned above, listen to the Comments from Ian Lustick. He hits the nail right on the head.
He is the author of the new book, "Trapped in the War On Terror".
___________________
Watch an additional Interview with Professor Ian Lustick. Click on the Webcast.
___________________
Listen to another report from NPR, which echoes the comments from Lustick.
Just How Far Has the U.S. Come Since 9/11 and The Start of The "War On Terror"?
Summary:
Five years after the Sept. 11 attacks, two keen analysts of U.S. foreign policy offer their observations on the Bush administration's war on terrorism. Former National Security Adviser Zbigniew Brezezinski and international scholar Fouad Ajami speak with Debbie Elliott.
Listen here
Topics:
--Bush Administration changes the CIA detention policies
--An examination of the war on terror.
Fast Forward to the Second half of the audio program to hear an excellent analysis of what is really going on with the "War On Terror" from Mr. Ian Lustick, professor of political science at the University of Pennsylvania. He gives one of the best explanations yet of the mistakes and fundamental flaws of the governments current "War On Terror". Lustick echoes what I have been saying for the last few years about the so called "War On Terror". He gives a clear explanation for why the "War On Terror" has not & will not work.
I also believe that the Bush administration attempt to connect the war on terror with the need for the U.S. to stay in Iraq will only hurt the Bush administration. Because they have put all their eggs in one basket... Iraq (and The Wrong basket!). By linking everything to Iraq (which was not really part of the War against Al Qaeda and extremism before 9/11) Bush is risking everything. If the Iraq adventure fails, so does the War on Terror and all of the Bush policies. The Bush policies of using military power as a primary tool against terrorism is not working and in fact plays right into the hands of the extremists, feeding their causes. Furthermore, the limits of U.S. military power have been exposed by the current approach.
The recent arrests in Great Britain- how was that accomplished? Through intelligence, diplomatic cooperation between countries, and through good law enforcement, OR through the dropping of bombs? The answer is clear.
This is also another indication that the U.S. government is not (and had no intentions of) leaving Iraq. By putting the entire Bush legacy, and the reputation of the U.S. into Iraq, the government was practically guaranteeing that the U.S. would be in Iraq indefinitely. U.S. politicians would not make such bold statements about Iraq without the intention of pouring billions more of our money into that country and committing troops there for the long term (i'm talking 10-20 years at least). U.S. leaders have known this fact all along and have been playing with the minds and fears of the American people by even suggesting that troops would be coming home.
The Bush administration, and many members of Congress have known that this idea of troop withdrawal was a lie all along.
I wonder when will the American people finally catch on?
Listen to program here. Click Audio links at top.
The second half of the program is especially interesting. As mentioned above, listen to the Comments from Ian Lustick. He hits the nail right on the head.
He is the author of the new book, "Trapped in the War On Terror".
___________________
Watch an additional Interview with Professor Ian Lustick. Click on the Webcast.
___________________
Listen to another report from NPR, which echoes the comments from Lustick.
Just How Far Has the U.S. Come Since 9/11 and The Start of The "War On Terror"?
Summary:
Five years after the Sept. 11 attacks, two keen analysts of U.S. foreign policy offer their observations on the Bush administration's war on terrorism. Former National Security Adviser Zbigniew Brezezinski and international scholar Fouad Ajami speak with Debbie Elliott.
Listen here
Major Computer Problems
I'm currently having major computer problems, and have been for the past week or so. I will have to take it to the shop for system repairs (really can't afford this problem right now). My posting might be light over the next week or two. But I shall return. I will still post when I can, as I am doing now... whenever the system is stable enough.
My operating system crashes every few hours.
My operating system crashes every few hours.
The Latest on the Genocide in Darfur
Amy Goodman reports on the status of Darfur.
The Genocide there continues, as the world does nothing.
Meanwhile, African Union Troops are preparing to withdraw soon.
Watch/Listen to report here.
Additional report from NPR
______________________
Previous blog entries on Darfur
My own op-ed pieces as well as reports from other sources
Holocaust In Darfur: What Is A Black Life Worth?
Commentary on Darfur from Mia Farrow
Major Symposium on Darfur in New York City
Previous report from Amy Goodman
Still no response to crisis
Holocaust Continues
The Genocide there continues, as the world does nothing.
Meanwhile, African Union Troops are preparing to withdraw soon.
Watch/Listen to report here.
Additional report from NPR
______________________
Previous blog entries on Darfur
My own op-ed pieces as well as reports from other sources
Holocaust In Darfur: What Is A Black Life Worth?
Commentary on Darfur from Mia Farrow
Major Symposium on Darfur in New York City
Previous report from Amy Goodman
Still no response to crisis
Holocaust Continues
U.S. Senate Reports No Link Between Al Qaeda and Saddam Hussein
It looks like yet another one of the governments key arguments for the war in Iraq has fallen apart. For the last 4 years, leading up to the war in Iraq and the years afterward, the Republican administration has been repeating the same argument (which I knew was a load of bulls....) saying that Saddam Hussein was connected with Al Qaeda and supported the group prior to 9/11. The Bush administration even went as far as suggesting that Iraq had something to do with 9/11. The government made this suggestion so strongly that it resulted in the majority of Americans (up until last year or so) believing that Iraq attacked the U.S. on 9/11.
The 9/11 Commission first waved red flags about this issue back in 2003, saying that there was no evidence of such a link. Now the U.S. Senate (a Republican controlled U.S. Senate) has come out with their formal report covering this issue, and the discussion can now be laid to rest. The U.S. Senate, in a difinitive report, has shot down this argument.
This is also yet more evidence that shows that the White House was involved in a carefully crafted scheme to intentionally mislead the American people.
What will come of this major story? Probably nothing, because politicians rarely prosecute their colleagues and hold them accountable for their actions. However, it is important for the American people to know the truth.
Report Below...
_____________
Senators report Saddam avoided helping Al-Qaida
TWO REPUBLICANS ENDORSE DEMOCRATS' DRAFT
By Greg Miller
Los Angeles Times
WASHINGTON - The Senate intelligence committee Friday said it had found no evidence that Saddam Hussein had ties to Al-Qaida or provided safe harbor to one of its most notorious operatives, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi -- conclusions contradicting claims by the Bush administration before it invaded Iraq.
In a long-awaited report, the committee determined that the former Iraqi dictator was wary of Al-Qaida, repeatedly rebuffed requests from its leader, Osama bin Laden, for assistance and sought to capture Zarqawi when the deadly terrorist turned up in Baghdad.
The findings are the latest in a series of high-profile studies to contradict some of the Bush administration's key arguments for invading Iraq, mainly that Saddam's government possessed stockpiles of banned weapons and had cultivated ties to terrorist networks. Presenting these since-discredited allegations as fact, President Bush and other high-ranking officials argued that Saddam's government posed an intolerable risk in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks.
The 356-page report is certain to fuel election-season debate over the administration's foreign policy as Bush is seeking to shore up support for the war in Iraq through a series of speeches that cast the conflict as central to winning the larger war on terror.
Continue Here
The 9/11 Commission first waved red flags about this issue back in 2003, saying that there was no evidence of such a link. Now the U.S. Senate (a Republican controlled U.S. Senate) has come out with their formal report covering this issue, and the discussion can now be laid to rest. The U.S. Senate, in a difinitive report, has shot down this argument.
This is also yet more evidence that shows that the White House was involved in a carefully crafted scheme to intentionally mislead the American people.
What will come of this major story? Probably nothing, because politicians rarely prosecute their colleagues and hold them accountable for their actions. However, it is important for the American people to know the truth.
Report Below...
_____________
Senators report Saddam avoided helping Al-Qaida
TWO REPUBLICANS ENDORSE DEMOCRATS' DRAFT
By Greg Miller
Los Angeles Times
WASHINGTON - The Senate intelligence committee Friday said it had found no evidence that Saddam Hussein had ties to Al-Qaida or provided safe harbor to one of its most notorious operatives, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi -- conclusions contradicting claims by the Bush administration before it invaded Iraq.
In a long-awaited report, the committee determined that the former Iraqi dictator was wary of Al-Qaida, repeatedly rebuffed requests from its leader, Osama bin Laden, for assistance and sought to capture Zarqawi when the deadly terrorist turned up in Baghdad.
The findings are the latest in a series of high-profile studies to contradict some of the Bush administration's key arguments for invading Iraq, mainly that Saddam's government possessed stockpiles of banned weapons and had cultivated ties to terrorist networks. Presenting these since-discredited allegations as fact, President Bush and other high-ranking officials argued that Saddam's government posed an intolerable risk in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 attacks.
The 356-page report is certain to fuel election-season debate over the administration's foreign policy as Bush is seeking to shore up support for the war in Iraq through a series of speeches that cast the conflict as central to winning the larger war on terror.
Continue Here
Pakistan Providing Safe Haven for Our Terrorist Ememies?
Pakistan Providing Safe Haven for Al Qaeda?
As Americans mark the 5th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, they should feel betrayed by their government
According to a recent report, the Pakistan government cut a deal with Taliban and Al Qaeda terrorists that would allow the groups to exist on Pakistans territory.
If this isn't bad enough, Bush recently commented on this report, saying that he was o.k. with it.
I thought Pakistan was a so-called ally in the "war on terror"? What happened to the John Wayne style proclamations that whoever harbored terrorists would face consequences?
It looks like Bush and Co. are cleaning egg from their faces on this one. Just a couple of years ago, the U.S. gave Pakistan the special diplomatic and military designation of "Major non-Nato ally". The designation cleared the way for certain types of sensitive weapons sales to Pakistan from the U.S. defense industry.
India was livid about the decision and felt betrayed by the U.S.
India felt that the U.S. weapons sales to Pakistan and the strategic partnership between the U.S. and the Muslim dictatorship was a threat to India and that Pakistan could not be trusted with such a position.
As the world's largest democracy, India felt that it should be the natural ally of the U.S., not Pakistan. Yet India does not enjoy the kind of special recognition by the U.S. government that Pakistan enjoys.
I am sure India is saying "I told you so" right now.
Follow story from The Moderate Voice.
As Americans mark the 5th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, they should feel betrayed by their government
According to a recent report, the Pakistan government cut a deal with Taliban and Al Qaeda terrorists that would allow the groups to exist on Pakistans territory.
If this isn't bad enough, Bush recently commented on this report, saying that he was o.k. with it.
I thought Pakistan was a so-called ally in the "war on terror"? What happened to the John Wayne style proclamations that whoever harbored terrorists would face consequences?
It looks like Bush and Co. are cleaning egg from their faces on this one. Just a couple of years ago, the U.S. gave Pakistan the special diplomatic and military designation of "Major non-Nato ally". The designation cleared the way for certain types of sensitive weapons sales to Pakistan from the U.S. defense industry.
India was livid about the decision and felt betrayed by the U.S.
India felt that the U.S. weapons sales to Pakistan and the strategic partnership between the U.S. and the Muslim dictatorship was a threat to India and that Pakistan could not be trusted with such a position.
As the world's largest democracy, India felt that it should be the natural ally of the U.S., not Pakistan. Yet India does not enjoy the kind of special recognition by the U.S. government that Pakistan enjoys.
I am sure India is saying "I told you so" right now.
Follow story from The Moderate Voice.
Saturday, September 09, 2006
Michael Powell and Michelle García of the Washington Post have written an insightful article on corporate greed, poor Federal, state, and local housing policy, and dysfunctional Federal, state and local government in their recent article, "After Attacks Changed the World, The Recovery Changed a City Near Ground Zero".
New Orleans
But I guess it is just another Mirror on America.
The article highlights the fact that "the scar that is the 16-acre hole is still there, a monument to political paralysis. But a forest of blue condominium towers rises, Hermes and Tiffany are opening shops downtown, Goldman Sachs is throwing up a 43-story office tower, and those Viking-stoved, Jacuzzi-ed lofts still attract high-roller bid-a-thons."
They also highlight "more than 5,800 apartments have been built in
Post-2001 New York has not been terribly kind to the $51,000-median-family-income New Yorker. In the first months, city and state officials held "listening sessions," and there was talk of parks and affordable housing. Plans for parks remain, but it would take a microscope to find affordable housing in downtown
By contrast, bonds issued for redevelopment went to 13 new luxury residential buildings with 4,468 market-rate units, including one that was in the works before the attacks. The state also handed out $539 million in business-recovery grants. Hundreds of millions went to large corporations. Exactly $62 million went to owners of small shops and food stores.
African American Political Pundit says: The Washington Post article highlights the New York andBut I guess it is just another Mirror on America.
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African American Political Pundit is a regular contributor to Mirror on America
Friday, September 08, 2006
Schwarzenegger don't like Black People, or Cubans, or Puerto Ricans, or ....
African American Political Pundit says: OK, now it's Schwarzenegger's turn. California Gov. has now apologized for saying a mix of "black blood" and "Latino blood," results in a "hot" temperament.
I guess this guy has lost everything, including his mind. I never like his last name anyway. Say his last name 5 times real fast. It may be how he feels about black people.
The Washington Post reports that California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's told advisers in a closed-door meeting last spring that Cubans and Puerto Ricans have "very hot" temperaments because they have a mix of "black blood" and "Latino blood."
There's more, In a six-minute audio tape obtained by the newspaper, the Republican governor was heard speculating with his chief of staff, Susan Kennedy, about the ethnicity of a Republican assemblywoman, Bonnie Garcia.
More >>>
* * *
African American Political Pundit is a regular contributor to Mirror on America
Spike Lee's "When The Levees Broke" (all 4 acts)
As the world watched in horror, Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans on August 29, 2005. Like many who watched the unfolding drama on television news, director Spike Lee was shocked not only by the scale of the disaster, but by the slow, inept and disorganized response of the emergency and recovery effort. Lee was moved to document this modern American tragedy, a morality play witnessed by people all around the world. The result is WHEN THE LEVEES BROKE: A REQUIEM IN FOUR ACTS. The film is structured in four acts, each dealing with a different aspect of the events that preceded and followed Katrina's catastrophic passage through New Orleans
Parts 1 & 2
http://rapidshare.de/files/30442835/hbo-whenthe_levees_brokepts1_and_2-3030.ala
Parts 3 & 4
http://rapidshare.de/files/30757991/hbo-when_the_levees_brokepts3_and_4-3030.ala
change .ala to .wmv after you download the files!!
Monday, September 04, 2006
Random Thoughts Sept. 4
Random Thoughts Sept. 4
Wondering how long I can survive on credit cards. A second job may be in order. Finding a "real job" has been much harder than anticipated. It's tough for college graduates attempting to enter the public sector. (or private for that matter). Thanks to the Conservative economy, where the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer, and the good jobs with livable wages are harder to come by.
So much for a college education.
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Still waiting to get my cable internet fixed. Charter Comm continues to tell me nothing is wrong with their service. If that's the case, why am I using Yahoo DSL right now? Yahoo also sucks. I have so much spyware on my computer from Yahoo, that it will take forever to clean it off my system.
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(Contradicting myself a little, I know) But I would love to go to Washington University this Fall, but I waited too long to decide to do anything. Bottom line is- I can't afford it. But I almost can't afford not to. I will be going back to school soon though for yet a 3rd degree.
I may have to make a decision soon just to keep my loan creditors off my ass.
************
************
Bob Dylan was right. The music of today (in general) really does suck, particularly the genres of R&B/Hip (slop), Rock, & Pop. I can't stand most of the stuff being produced today... I can't even stand listening to the radio anymore. I stick to public radio and net radio (can't beat it).
Of course there are a few exceptions- India Arie, Leela James, Erikah Badu, a little Alicia Keys (although her sound sometimes seems a little too commercial....talk about being overqualified for your job, lol. She has to under-achieve in order to stay relevent and sell albums to an audience that for the "most" part has been dumbed down).
Beyond that, the music of today is in the toilet. There are few good bands, rap music has become a self destructive minstrel show over the past decade or more, especially for young impressionable minorities, and the songwriting is pitiful. Much of the music today has no feeling.
Forget Beyonce (she's the Black Britney Spears. Yuck), Jay Z, P. Diddy, 50 Cent, Mary J. Blige (she tries) & the like.... I just don't relate to what they do.
If you have been reading this blog long enough you know that I can't stand celebrities, the Black celebs of today in particular. This is basically because of the influence that they have over the masses- an influence that they have squandered. The influence that THEY DO have is mostly a negative influence. What I see from these rappers and sports stars is almost enough to make me go crazy. The minstrel stuff just breaks my heart... Because what they do, impacts us all...in terms of image. The image of the Black American male has basically been pissed on and destroyed..... by people who look like me.
I prefer the sounds of the 60's, 70's and 80's. Much of the music of that time had feeling and a certain kind of spirit to it. In contrast, the music of today sounds so empty to me. There is very little individual character to it- everything sounds the same. No one wants to strive to be different anymore. You now have the opposite.....everyone is trying to look and sound like everyone else. WTH?
You can hardly tell the difference between "artists" anymore.
70's artists, on the other hand, are so identifiable, with just the first couple of notes.
************
************
I missed the historic search light being lit up the other day in my hometown. I'm originally from the St. Louis area community of "University City". (The city's "Loop" district is the St. Louis areas equivalent to the Village in New York). The City Hall is an historic century old building that doubles as a light tower (symbolically). See history and old photos here. It has one of the largest and oldest search lights in the country still in operation. I used to enjoy seeing the light tower lit up as a kid growing up near the Loop district.
However, in the last 15-20 years or so, the lighting of the city hall tower became a more rare event. It's only lit up for rare/special occasions. The city is celebrating its 100 birthday this year, and they had it lit up the other night....and I missed it. I plan to catch it next time though.
*************
*************
Why didn't the Right Wing religious Conservative TV/Radio media come down hard on thug and child rapist Warren Jeffs? Is it because Jeffs is one of them ("religious". "Conservative" & so on)?
I have noticed this throughout the Conservative media over the past week.
But last Saturday I ran across one commentator in particular that ticked me off. Right wing Conservative radio host Jerry Doyle spent part of his show defending Warren Jeffs. Doyle talked about why he thought Warren Jeffs should not have been on the FBI most wanted list, and seemed to defend the idea of children being married off to adult males in the Mormon Church. Doyle, showed that he didn't understand the law enforcement process that gets the FBI involved in these kinds of cases (when suspects cross State lines to avoid procecution, etc).
No surprise.... Conservatives have a tendency of not knowing what they are talking about.
*************
*************
I have to blog about the ordeal I had in July when I tried to renew my drivers license (wacky Homeland security stuff). I will get around to it within the next few days/weeks. I have been busy with lifes bull.... and haven't spent much time on my own stories.
Definitely an episode of the Adventures of an Angry Black Man......
*************
*************
We are approaching the 5th anniversary of the cowardly attacks on the U.S. by fanatical religious thugs- The worst terrorist attack in the history of the country (although my Native American cousins would probably beg to differ....but that's another blog entry). But we are approaching this anniversary and the nation is almost just as vulnerable now as it was on the day of the attacks 5 years ago. And what really bothers me is that the vulnerabilities now are the same as they were then.
Seems that all that has changed is the amount of bureacracy- a lot more of it now..... but there has been little in terms of results. Americans have been lulled into a false sense of security because there has not been another major terrorist attack since 9/11/2001. But what they don't understand is that there has not been another "big one" because the terrorists pick a time, date and location of their choosing..... the fact that nothing big has happened here since 9/11 has little to do with U.S. security measures.
Wondering how long I can survive on credit cards. A second job may be in order. Finding a "real job" has been much harder than anticipated. It's tough for college graduates attempting to enter the public sector. (or private for that matter). Thanks to the Conservative economy, where the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting poorer, and the good jobs with livable wages are harder to come by.
So much for a college education.
************
************
Still waiting to get my cable internet fixed. Charter Comm continues to tell me nothing is wrong with their service. If that's the case, why am I using Yahoo DSL right now? Yahoo also sucks. I have so much spyware on my computer from Yahoo, that it will take forever to clean it off my system.
************
************
(Contradicting myself a little, I know) But I would love to go to Washington University this Fall, but I waited too long to decide to do anything. Bottom line is- I can't afford it. But I almost can't afford not to. I will be going back to school soon though for yet a 3rd degree.
I may have to make a decision soon just to keep my loan creditors off my ass.
************
************
Bob Dylan was right. The music of today (in general) really does suck, particularly the genres of R&B/Hip (slop), Rock, & Pop. I can't stand most of the stuff being produced today... I can't even stand listening to the radio anymore. I stick to public radio and net radio (can't beat it).
Of course there are a few exceptions- India Arie, Leela James, Erikah Badu, a little Alicia Keys (although her sound sometimes seems a little too commercial....talk about being overqualified for your job, lol. She has to under-achieve in order to stay relevent and sell albums to an audience that for the "most" part has been dumbed down).
Beyond that, the music of today is in the toilet. There are few good bands, rap music has become a self destructive minstrel show over the past decade or more, especially for young impressionable minorities, and the songwriting is pitiful. Much of the music today has no feeling.
Forget Beyonce (she's the Black Britney Spears. Yuck), Jay Z, P. Diddy, 50 Cent, Mary J. Blige (she tries) & the like.... I just don't relate to what they do.
If you have been reading this blog long enough you know that I can't stand celebrities, the Black celebs of today in particular. This is basically because of the influence that they have over the masses- an influence that they have squandered. The influence that THEY DO have is mostly a negative influence. What I see from these rappers and sports stars is almost enough to make me go crazy. The minstrel stuff just breaks my heart... Because what they do, impacts us all...in terms of image. The image of the Black American male has basically been pissed on and destroyed..... by people who look like me.
I prefer the sounds of the 60's, 70's and 80's. Much of the music of that time had feeling and a certain kind of spirit to it. In contrast, the music of today sounds so empty to me. There is very little individual character to it- everything sounds the same. No one wants to strive to be different anymore. You now have the opposite.....everyone is trying to look and sound like everyone else. WTH?
You can hardly tell the difference between "artists" anymore.
70's artists, on the other hand, are so identifiable, with just the first couple of notes.
************
************
I missed the historic search light being lit up the other day in my hometown. I'm originally from the St. Louis area community of "University City". (The city's "Loop" district is the St. Louis areas equivalent to the Village in New York). The City Hall is an historic century old building that doubles as a light tower (symbolically). See history and old photos here. It has one of the largest and oldest search lights in the country still in operation. I used to enjoy seeing the light tower lit up as a kid growing up near the Loop district.
However, in the last 15-20 years or so, the lighting of the city hall tower became a more rare event. It's only lit up for rare/special occasions. The city is celebrating its 100 birthday this year, and they had it lit up the other night....and I missed it. I plan to catch it next time though.
*************
*************
Why didn't the Right Wing religious Conservative TV/Radio media come down hard on thug and child rapist Warren Jeffs? Is it because Jeffs is one of them ("religious". "Conservative" & so on)?
I have noticed this throughout the Conservative media over the past week.
But last Saturday I ran across one commentator in particular that ticked me off. Right wing Conservative radio host Jerry Doyle spent part of his show defending Warren Jeffs. Doyle talked about why he thought Warren Jeffs should not have been on the FBI most wanted list, and seemed to defend the idea of children being married off to adult males in the Mormon Church. Doyle, showed that he didn't understand the law enforcement process that gets the FBI involved in these kinds of cases (when suspects cross State lines to avoid procecution, etc).
No surprise.... Conservatives have a tendency of not knowing what they are talking about.
*************
*************
I have to blog about the ordeal I had in July when I tried to renew my drivers license (wacky Homeland security stuff). I will get around to it within the next few days/weeks. I have been busy with lifes bull.... and haven't spent much time on my own stories.
Definitely an episode of the Adventures of an Angry Black Man......
*************
*************
We are approaching the 5th anniversary of the cowardly attacks on the U.S. by fanatical religious thugs- The worst terrorist attack in the history of the country (although my Native American cousins would probably beg to differ....but that's another blog entry). But we are approaching this anniversary and the nation is almost just as vulnerable now as it was on the day of the attacks 5 years ago. And what really bothers me is that the vulnerabilities now are the same as they were then.
Seems that all that has changed is the amount of bureacracy- a lot more of it now..... but there has been little in terms of results. Americans have been lulled into a false sense of security because there has not been another major terrorist attack since 9/11/2001. But what they don't understand is that there has not been another "big one" because the terrorists pick a time, date and location of their choosing..... the fact that nothing big has happened here since 9/11 has little to do with U.S. security measures.
Sunday, September 03, 2006
The Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin Dead at 44
Steve Irwin, The Crocodile Hunter, has died.
Reports
Daily Telegraph
The Age
MSNBC/AP
Australia's News Interactive Service
Just a reminder, as if we needed another, that life is short.
I saw him as a great educator, and that will probably be the biggest loss for the public.
He got a lot of people excited about nature again.
Teachers all over should use some of his method as a model for educating IMO.
He was a little wild & crazy though, and in some ways, that probably caught up to him.
But his teaching style (the way he mixed information & entertainment) was pretty brilliant.
You are entertained after watching his programs, not realizing that you learned some things that you missed in school.... and for the kids....it's a whole new experience altogether.
He spawned a lot of copycats too.
Reports
Daily Telegraph
The Age
MSNBC/AP
Australia's News Interactive Service
Just a reminder, as if we needed another, that life is short.
I saw him as a great educator, and that will probably be the biggest loss for the public.
He got a lot of people excited about nature again.
Teachers all over should use some of his method as a model for educating IMO.
He was a little wild & crazy though, and in some ways, that probably caught up to him.
But his teaching style (the way he mixed information & entertainment) was pretty brilliant.
You are entertained after watching his programs, not realizing that you learned some things that you missed in school.... and for the kids....it's a whole new experience altogether.
He spawned a lot of copycats too.
Friday, September 01, 2006
Klan Member Ordered Reinstated As State Trooper
Klan member ordered reinstated as State police officer
OMAHA, Sept. 1 (UPI) -- An arbitrator ordered the Nebraska State Patrol to reinstate a trooper who was fired after his membership in the Ku Klux Klan was revealed.
The decision to reinstate Robert Henderson, who was fired after admitting to membership in the KKK and posting on a message board for white supremacist group the White Knights, has sparked controversy among those who disagree with the arbitrator's ruling that the State Patrol failed to demonstrate that Henderson poses a threat to the public or the police, ABC News reported Friday.
Nebraska Attorney General Jon Bruning has filed a motion to overturn the decision.
"We don't want this person on the staff (of the Nebraska State Patrol)," he said. "We don't want the agency destroyed by a racist like Bob Henderson."
Unless the appeal is granted, the state of Nebraska must reinstate Henderson, who has since resigned his membership in the groups and admitted that joining was a mistake, within 60 days.
Source
Major Symposium on The Future for African American Men
View a major symposium on the State of African American Men.
The event was held recently in Washington DC.
This is a continuation of the great debate sparked by Bill Cosby, and expanded on by others such as Juan Williams. At the heart of this debate is the failure of parents, and black leadership to identify the problems and to embrace the right solutions. Those solutions that have been lacking include such things as encouraging education, self pride, personal responsibility, rejecting the degenerate culture of thuggery, criminality & low expectations, and establishing the programs and institutions that have been needed to support young African Americans (men in particular). It ultimately centers on the need for African Americans to embrace personal responsibility, to solve their own problems rather than relying on the government, and on re-establishing the Black family and the idea of "Fatherhood".
This event includes a who's who of African American figures, including both Liberal and more Conservative voices, young and old. There are too many people to list, you will just have to watch the video to find out :).
Excellent event with a lot of interesting viewpoints. No shortage of frankness & plain speech either.
Watch video of the event.
The video of the event will probably be available for streaming only for a limited time. After that, it may be available as a DVD/Tape from C-span. Check the C-span website or contact C-span for availability.
If you have problems with the video stream, leave a message in the comments area to let me know.
***************************
***************************
Previous blog entries on this subject
An Exlusive Interview with Juan Williams
Juan Williams and Michael Eric Dyson in Debate on State of Black America
Is Cosby Wrong?
Black Men in Crisis
The event was held recently in Washington DC.
This is a continuation of the great debate sparked by Bill Cosby, and expanded on by others such as Juan Williams. At the heart of this debate is the failure of parents, and black leadership to identify the problems and to embrace the right solutions. Those solutions that have been lacking include such things as encouraging education, self pride, personal responsibility, rejecting the degenerate culture of thuggery, criminality & low expectations, and establishing the programs and institutions that have been needed to support young African Americans (men in particular). It ultimately centers on the need for African Americans to embrace personal responsibility, to solve their own problems rather than relying on the government, and on re-establishing the Black family and the idea of "Fatherhood".
This event includes a who's who of African American figures, including both Liberal and more Conservative voices, young and old. There are too many people to list, you will just have to watch the video to find out :).
Excellent event with a lot of interesting viewpoints. No shortage of frankness & plain speech either.
Watch video of the event.
The video of the event will probably be available for streaming only for a limited time. After that, it may be available as a DVD/Tape from C-span. Check the C-span website or contact C-span for availability.
If you have problems with the video stream, leave a message in the comments area to let me know.
***************************
***************************
Previous blog entries on this subject
An Exlusive Interview with Juan Williams
Juan Williams and Michael Eric Dyson in Debate on State of Black America
Is Cosby Wrong?
Black Men in Crisis
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