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Creating the Future
Like a malevolent cyclone whirling across the land, mowing down all we hold dear, the destructive forces inherent in Bush administration policies are wreaking havoc in the nation. We all know the litany: tax policies that are transferring wealth from the middle class to the very wealthy; a crippling of environmental regulations that is destroying our national heritage; a sea of red ink that will take future generations decades to overcome; an aggressive and militant foreign policy that is not only counterproductive but is devastating our armed forces; and many other examples too numerous to mention. In fact, these policies and their harmful consequences generate so much controversy and ire that it has been difficult to focus on constructive alternatives. Instead, we are constantly thrown into a defensive posture, attempting to ward off the bulldozing onslaught of a radical agenda and the politically motivated character assassinations that accompany it. As an alternative to our perpetual and self-defeating (though justified) outrage, let us consider the transformational potential of energized, focused thought. In other words, the concept that what your mind focuses on will grow. From this line of thinking, an argument could be made that by angrily focusing on the radical GOP agenda and its dark consequences, we have actually been empowering that to which we are vehemently opposed. On the other hand, what has been largely missing from progressive discourse, and what it is now time to create, is a crystal clear vision of the path we choose for America in the years ahead. Let us begin with national security. Rather than a War on Terror, it is a War on Foreign Fuel Dependency that must be mobilized. A focused, government-mandated policy to develop alternative fuel sources and vastly greater fuel efficiency can end our dependency on Middle Eastern oil in a few years, with the added bonus of greatly reducing our contribution to global warming. In addition, we would no longer need to maintain a military presence in the Middle East to protect our oil supply. Our increasing energy independence would therefore remove a major irritant in our relations with the Arab World - the ever-burgeoning number of our military bases on their soil - and dilute much of the rage currently fueling terrorism. New jobs would be created in this country, new industries born, and a general strengthening of the American economy would transpire. Within a few decades there could be a radical transformation of how our country uses energy – efficiently, without pollution, and independently. This is doable, but it requires leadership, which has been essentially non-existent under George Bush and his Republican-led Congress. Instead, Korea, Japan, and China are taking the lead in building fuel-efficient cars, GM is losing a over a billion dollars a quarter building cars no one wants, Americans are losing jobs, our trade imbalance is continuing to expand, and increasing billions are going to support those military bases. The latest Bush energy plan gives 98% of its tax incentives and subsidies to the fossil fuel industry and the development of nuclear power. A courageous and clear alternative plan, focusing on real fuel efficiency and renewable energy sources, should be boldly set forth by progressives so that the nation can begin to envision what is possible. The ramifications would impact the environment, the economy, and national security. Secondly, but of equal importance, ALL corporate money must be removed from politics. No donations should be allowed for any political campaign or elected official other than by private individuals or non-profit interest groups, and only within designated limits. The decrease in fundraising can be offset by a requirement that television and radio stations donate a certain amount of time to candidates for several weeks prior to elections. This may sound radical given the status quo, but the corporate money that saturates the political system keeps politicians beholden to their large financial backers and not their constituents. Corporations are not people with moral and personal concerns. Their only motivation is profit. They essentially pay politicians to back off from environmental cleanup regulations, tax enforcement, and limitations on monopolistic practices. Bluntly stated, if we cannot remove all corporate money from the political trough, we can kiss our democracy good-bye. On the other hand, by ending this scandalous practice, politicians would be free to support what they feel is in the best interest of their constituents, not in the interest of their corporate campaign contributors. There would no longer be any reason to gut environmental regulation to protect polluting industries from taking responsibility for their own clean-up, no reason to protect the already bloated incomes of the pharmaceutical giants, no reason to spend money on unnecessary weaponry and promote unnecessary wars to benefit the defense industry. It is not coincidental that George Bush received $48 million from the Texas energy industry during the 2000 election and has received $58 million since, while the nation’s energy policy consists primarily of tax cuts and subsidies to these same extraction industries and only a pittance for alternative energy and conservation practices. It is also not coincidental that the lavishly GOP-donating pharmaceuticals benefited enormously from the Medicare drug bill which did not include any bargaining for reduced group-drug costs for seniors. And it is additionally not coincidental that the Bush Social Security boondoggle would benefit a moribund investment industry, also a huge sponsor of the Bush and related GOP campaigns, while it eventually will cut benefits to middle class and poor recipients. It is time to perform radical surgery to completely separate corporate money from politics and remove a malignancy that is killing our democracy. Let us further remember that our democracy was created with the idea that all are equal and equally entitled to their differences, as long as they commit no harm to others. This concept has expanded to include minorities and women as the consciousness of the nation evolved, but the seed was there from the start. Thus, the beautiful image of a melting pot of people - with different religions and races and a cacophony of differing ideas and goals, merging their strengths but retaining their differences - becomes the ideal for modern America. In the realm of ideas and religion, however, people often have very strong feelings, and sometimes sense that theirs is the one and only true perspective. Such fervor can be a great blessing as it can instill a very strong and abiding faith or set of ideals in an individual. But it is also why many wars have been fought over religion. One of the most important roles of government in a democracy is to guarantee that the individual’s right to think, speak, and believe as he or she chooses is protected and to guarantee that each citizen is given equal protection under the law. For these First Amendment freedoms to coexist with the government’s role as dispassionate protector of every citizen, however, these two aspects of a democracy, freedom and equality, must be totally separate. The concept of the separation of church and state resolves any potential conflict of interest that could develop were the government to ally itself, for example, with a particular religion to the exclusion of others. Simply put, the government cannot be a protector of all religions or belief systems if it chooses one over the others. And conversely, the individual is free to believe in whatever he or she chooses so long as there is no attempt to coerce others to agree or harm them for disagreeing. Although these ideas may seem obvious and in total alignment with what we have always been told about America, our current government has begun to diverge from this path. Recently, there has been a blatant attempt by radical Republicans to align the government with one religious tradition and its goals. An example of this growing religious influence in public institutions can be seen in the increasing power of Christian evangelicals, and a corresponding increase of harassment of other religions, at the Air Force Academy. It is time to understand clearly what the separation of church and state is about and to reinvigorate its presence in our democratic traditions. Extrapolating from the government’s dispassionate role in protecting individual rights, we can draw some inferences for a sane foreign policy. Rather than evangelizing democracy in the Third World as the only correct form of government and militantly pursuing this objective, a truly democratic nation should respect the differences among nations and respect their right to grow or transform at their own pace, as well as respecting their right to disagree on matters of policy. Intervention should be encouraged only in the direst circumstances, such as genocide or the direct and imminent threat of another nation to our security. Negotiation, diplomacy, and an attempt to find common ground are always preferable. When our democracy is true to itself, and strong in its core principles, it will speak far more eloquently and effectively than the current big stick, bullying approach of the Bush Regime. Focusing on the America that we choose to create rather than being distracted by the gross distortions of our founding principles and the caricature of our ideals with which we are presented today is a formidable task but one which will generate a future we would be proud to leave to our children. Let us envision an America where the government, well-separated from religious disputes and any particular theological position, would protect every individual’s rights and freedoms and would consistently protect the citizens from those who would do harm, including criminals, aggressor nations, and corporations whose policies or irresponsible polluting are contrary to the public interest. Let us envision a government that acts as an overseer and regulator to the economic sector, for those times when the profit motive eclipses the safety and health of the community. Let us imagine our elected officials free to act on what they perceive as in the best interests of their constituents because they would no longer be beholden to any corporate money. Let us envision intelligent and comprehensive policies for such issues as global warming, alternative energy development, conservation, terrorism, bankruptcy law, Social Security, health care, etc., without the corrupting influence of corporate self-interest. Although much of this may seem merely a fantasy at present, it is important to plant the seeds in the collective mind of the nation of that toward which we strive. The more these ideas are spoken of and shared, the more real they become and the more potential they have of one day manifesting in our world. As Walt Disney once said, "All our dreams can come true...if we have the courage to pursue them."
Another characteristic of Uranus is its tendency to illuminate the truth in a sudden flash of awareness. The Schiavo case illustrates this point. All at once, it became quite clear that the Right Wing extremists were attempting to coerce the judiciary to ignore all legal precedent in order to force them to conform to fundamentalist ideology. The Radical Right was also seen as intruding upon a private family controversy and disregarding the personal choices of the patient and her husband to further an extremist agenda. Moreover, intrusive Republican politicians were seen to be opportunistically using this affair for political gain. This increasingly obvious abuse of power has been compounded by the Right’s attempt to squash the Senate filibuster and its failed attempt to castrate the House Ethics Committee. The return of Uranus square its own place in July and August 2005 and again in January 2006 may bring further stark realizations about the Radical Right’s abusive tactics and extremist agenda. The lightning-like flashes of understanding likely under this transit may well continue to illuminate what a somnolent nation sorely needs to see. Interestingly, Democratic Senator Harry Reid, the Senate Minority Leader, is simultaneously under a powerful Uranus transit. Reid, born 12/2/39 in Searchlight, Nevada, has a natal Sun/Mars square, suggesting qualities of great strength and a willingness to step up to a challenge with hard work and determination. His biography gives many examples of this assertive and tough configuration, from time spent in the mines with his father, to boxing in high school, to a brief time as a Capital policeman, and, finally, to a career as a lawyer and then a politician. Beginning in March 2005, this powerful natal Sun/Mars energy has been greatly intensified and called into play by transiting Uranus, conjunct Reid’s Mars (8Pisces) and square to Reid’s Sun (9Sagittarius). It remains quite active through mid September 2005, and, as with the Uranus transit in the US chart, will be quite noticeable in the summer months, returning briefly in January and early February 2006. September will have the additional energizing force of a slowly moving Mars conjunct Reid’s natal Uranus. Reid will be outspoken, determined, forceful, and courageous during this entire period. Setbacks for him are possible the first week of June and at the end of June and the first week of July, during Saturn’s transits square his Saturn and subsequently square his Node. Given that the second Saturn transit is during the July 4th recess, the possibility emerges of Bush pushing through some recess appointments during this time, dealing a brief, unexpected blow to Democratic strategy.
Bolton was born November 20, 1948, in Baltimore. The potential for his bursts of uncontrolled anger can be seen in his natal Mars/Jupiter conjunction opposite Uranus. This is a very aggressive and willful configuration that suggests difficulty in accepting restraint or compromise. Intensified in 2001 and 2002 when converse Mars moved to oppose natal Pluto, this configuration will be further inflamed from December 2005 through November 2006, when transiting Pluto will be conjunct Bolton’s Mars. In addition, the increased agitation and raw aggression in this aspect will be irritated by the converse progressed Sun square Uranus during the same period. Unexpected, upsetting events (Uranus) are likely to agitate Bolton’s already explosive temperament, causing enormous potential for his anger to burst through what little control he has. At least one embarrassing international incident is quite possible if this configuration finds him in the prominent position of UN Ambassador. At the moment, Saturn is squaring Bolton’s natal Venus. Without a birth time, we can only estimate that this transit will last through May 21, give or take about 6 days. Saturn here suggests that the burden of ongoing personal criticism is taking its toll and will continue to do so through the duration of this transit. A successful nomination is unlikely while it is still in effect. On May 12, when the Senate committee is set to vote on whether to send Bolton’s nomination to the Senate floor, the Sun will be sextile Saturn, triggering this aspect. The Moon will be conjunct Saturn by the following morning. These aspects indicate an unsuccessful vote for Bolton in the committee. The White House, however, is threatening to push the vote to the Senate floor in spite of the outcome of the committee vote. If this occurs and the final vote comes after the transit of Saturn to Bolton’s Venus (roughly after May 21), Bolton will have a chance of winning the nomination. Should this happen, expect major fireworks from him come December 2005 and beyond. We are currently in the final phase of Saturn crossing US Mercury. As predicted numerous times by Starlight News, this has brought about a contraction in US currency and a scarcity of resources, in particular, oil. On a positive note, the Saturn influence has raised awareness of the precarious state of our national financial picture and the ongoing danger inherent in our gluttonous addiction to foreign energy sources. A significant undercurrent to this transit has been the simultaneous quincunx of Pluto to US Mercury, suggesting an ongoing and profound transformation in US trade, currency, and investment realities covering the period from early 2005 through late 2006. In a few weeks, from May 13 through May 15, a powerful Mars/Uranus conjunction will occur just as Saturn moves into a one-degree orb of US Mercury for the final time, culminating around May 30, 2005. The Mars Uranus combination is likely to bring a temporary increase in violence, explosions, accidents and other sudden and destructive bursts of energy world-wide. In addition, this aspect is probably close enough to the square to US Uranus and the opposition to Bush’s Mars to indicate the possibility of unexpected and stressful events that impact the US in some way. The fact that it is followed by the two-week Saturn transit to US Mercury and the transit of Saturn quincunx transiting Pluto suggests that the repercussions of the sudden and explosive Uranus/Mars energy from May 13 through May 15 are likely to include a critically negative impact on US currency, trade, or oil availability.
Iraq is proving a black hole for American power and something of a graveyard for the administration's global ambitions and energies. In the same article, Engelhardt describes the administration’s numerous failed efforts in Latin America. Moreover, Bush’s 60 day Social Security tour has reaped him less support for this issue than he had when this tax-payer subsidized extravaganza began. Although June will mark the end of Saturn’s impact on Bush’s Cancer planets, September 2005 will herald the beginning of the year-long influence of this constraining, reality-focused energy on his Ascendant, Mercury, and Pluto conjunction. The Ascendant signifies where a person and the environment meet, suggesting Bush’s troubles will be very immediate and very burdensome. There is also some potential for ill-health with this alignment, though it can be the kind that is more encumbering and demanding than life-threatening. Late July and August 2005, however, could present a problem to those of us who prefer our current Chief of State somewhat bridled. Uranus will oppose Bush’s natal Mars, Inaugural tertiary progressed Mars will conjunct Pluto, and transiting Jupiter will conjunct Bush’s Moon and Jupiter, while it conjuncts its own place in the Inaugural chart and squares Inaugural Venus and Mercury. The confluence of these planetary energies suggests that Bush will be daring, reckless, at times angry, and full of bold confidence but potentially lacking in good judgment. It is possible (hopeful) that at least some of these qualities will be experienced during vacation time in Crawford, although the strong Jupiter presence suggests visiting foreign dignitaries in that setting. A stunningly audacious (Uranus) recess appointment during this period can also not be ruled out. But whatever happens in August, September will bring troubles anew to our Commander-in-Chief, and the consequences of previous mistakes will once again act as a restraining influence. The incoherence of many of the Bush regime policies is becoming increasingly difficult to obscure. Bush’s mounting frustrations and inability to move forward on a number of fronts gives Democrats an opening to paint clear and fresh alternatives that can move our nation forward into the 21st Century. The trap, as it has been for four and half years, is to get stuck in reacting to the whirlwind of destructive energy spawned by Bush’s extremist agenda. The multitude of failure, inconsistency, and confusion generated by that agenda, however, is now creating a window of opportunity for Democrats to take the lead in defining America’s goals and its future path as a nation. The time is now to put forth a bold, comprehensive vision that will fill the vacuum created by the bankrupt leadership of the Bush administration.
Nancy Waterman on May 4 | Link
Comments
Oh, Nancy, This is wonderful! Asolutely brilliant and beautifully, flowingly stated. What a joy. I agree wholeheartedly. Time to forge ahead with vision. Posted by: jm on May 5, 2005 12:04 AMThanks, jm. I sometimes worry we are addicted to all the criticism. Bush makes it so easy to do. But it gets us nowhere, just more of Bush. Posted by: Nancy on May 5, 2005 12:35 AMNancy, this is so rich. Thank you! We MUST focus on how to make our country better, you are absolutely right. I will read your article a few times and may comment again in a day or two. Thank you so much. Posted by: Laurie on May 5, 2005 12:37 AMBravo, bravo, Nancy! Now I have my platform for the 2006 and beyond elections--and will be working to implement it locally. "Don't stop thinking about tomorrow." Posted by: Barbara on May 5, 2005 12:49 AMJust read on Digby http://digbysblog.blogspot.com that today is 35th Anniversary of Kent State. Also, check out this interesting site: Posted by: Barbara on May 5, 2005 02:42 AMSo wonderfully well-written, Nancy. Thank you. And the astro-info is as compelling as ever. I, too, shall read this again (and again) over the next several days and may comment again later. Thank you for your obvious time and greatly appreciated effort. Posted by: Jonathan on May 5, 2005 02:45 AMDid everyone see that Astrodatabank has sent out Tom Delay's complete birth info? I haven't had a chance to work on the corrections yet to my noon chart but here is the info. 4/8/47 at 9:47 PM Great article Nancy and an appropriate one regarding the energy used to feed into anyone and in this instance Mr. Bush. There has absolutely been a shift amoung the "collective" unconscious or intelligence and it started with the Terry Schiavo case. The polls are falling with Bush, Delay, Arnold, Santorno, Frist, Congress, the war, Social Security, the religious right, any number of things. It's an indication that there has been a massive shift away from this present administration's course of action. People have made up their minds regarding the direction of this country so that "fight" is over for the time being. There will be more and more groups, different groups, coming to the front of the pack. I think we will see an increase of churches trying to care for social ills, educational groups trying to figure out a better way. Utah has already voted to ignore the Federal Government's "No Child Left Behind" standards. Senator Salazar calling James Dobson the "anti-christ" (even if he did back down from it) had the effect of bursting the bubble. It's been said about the Christian Right, even Laura Bush's risque comedy routine the other night broke some kind of mystic of infallibility. There will be other battles to be fought, but there won't be the attachment to the outcome or the same emotion involved. Today was the anniversary of the Kent State shootings in 1975. Venus and Mars was conj. the US Uranus, and today Uranus squared that point. Pluto was at 24 Virgo, transiting Pluto is squaring that degree today, there were aspects yesterday and today to set off the same type of violence, but it didn't happen here and didn't happen on a campus but there were 70 Iraqi's killed as a result of 2 suicide bombers and the growing Civil War. People are growing tired of fear, and war and they are turning energy toward change. It's hard to tell when the change will be enacted but it will be enacted. I think there is a very good possibility that Arnold will be impeached and Tom Delay will fall completely from grace before the summer is over. His worst time will be as Saturn approaches his 1 degree Leo Saturn for his second Saturn return. Posted by: Sally on May 5, 2005 04:38 AMhe'll be "resigned." this is all just too much. let him do the recess appointments. it's only for a year. it will turn the democrats red. excellent article nancy, and i do like the concentrated thought piece. very imporant. sit back, calm yourselves, and "Imagine Whurled Peas" oh yeah! i'm with it...good times, good times. sally, you are so on target about ken salazar. he was looking like a DINO (democrat in name only) on the early votes but he has my total respect for taking on dobson. the anti christ remark was devastating. you are right. the baloon has popped! (minor note: don't tell sen. salazar this, but scott baio is the anti christ, heard bobcat goldwaith say so in the 80's, in person...and then several times in a special message to me on my car radio...sirius, no less). just a "you told us so" nancy. you said arnold would start having trouble about now. well, congratulations are due in droves. he is so #$%ked! his endorsement of 'the minutemen' border thugs is purely toxic. while ca latinos/latinas are of different minds on illegals, they all know what harassment by the'gringo's' means and this is an abomination to all of them...btw, 33% of CA's population. this community in ca has integrated to the working middle and professional middle class faster than any ethnic group in american history. they have yet to roar loudly although they have much influence. when the latino mayoral candidate takes LA (DEM) and arnold's popularity drops below 30%, their roar will be deafening! nancy, please oh please say bush will be resigned (i'm reduced to begging). you were so right about arnold. but predictions don't interest me at all...i just read your columns for the stunning political narrative and now metaphysical insights (not) cheers Posted by: mike on May 5, 2005 06:12 AM
http://www.michaelmandeville.com/earthmonitor/ecbulletins/2005/ecb_May_4_05.htm Posted by: wv on May 5, 2005 01:05 PMI had to read the article again, Nancy. It is so motivating. It moves like a march. Steady, strong, and forward. This is inspired, Nancy. Your hard work is evident and i hope this finds a broad audience. We manifest "reality" through a collective disposition of that energy. Exercising our creativity to create a differing reality is not only possible but, it seems, we are being asked by the Universe to do so. One possibility might be community based -- groups of neighbors coming together to invest in a wind or solar station that benefits the community. Neighbors creating swap meets to trade both skills and goods. etc., etc. This small community in which i live is ripe with possibilities. Though we're new to the area, we've already attended one such community meeting. I've faith that we'll be doing more in the future than clean-up day (on the rural road). karen Posted by: farrout on May 5, 2005 01:45 PMNasty....
http://www.villagevoice.com/news/0518,hentoff,63572,6.html Posted by: wv on May 5, 2005 02:15 PMAwesome article, Nancy!!!
http://www.buzzflash.com/contributors/05/05/con05157.html Posted by: wv on May 5, 2005 04:12 PMNeerav Greg Palast: Impeachment Time: The Facts Were http://www.buzzflash.com/analysis/05/05/ana05013.html If there is any justice left in the world..he
Neerav: You asked about a potential impeachment during the difficult times ahead for Mr. Bush and this administation. An yes it is possible. There are some patterns that seem to repeat in American History and we can only wonder if they will repeat and removal from office is highly likely or statistically possible during this time, in fact right on up to Dec. of this year. It doesn't necessarily need to be a death or assassination but from an astrological statistical point of view, removal from office either by death or impeachment hangs in the balance. Harrison (d. 04.04.1841) Garfield (d. 09.19.1881) Harding (d. 8.2.1923) JFK (11.22.1963) Neptune was at 15 - 17 degrees of a fixed sign, making a harsh aspect to the US mid-heaven. (a sesqui-quadrate) also impacting several key midpoints in the US chart. When Lincoln died Neptune was in the US 4th house just past the opposition to the 10th house cusp, FDR We now have Neptune having transited to the disasterous 15-17 degrees of a fixed sign (Aquarius) the same spot it was in 1841 when William Henry Harrison died. Both Neptune and Uranus go back and forth over what seems to be dangerous degrees for US Presidents and corresponds to the removal of the US Leader. That removal can be through death, illness or impeachment although the historical evidence points to a high potential for death by fair or foul, it could just as easily be an impeachment, but the evidence points to a removal of a US leader. I put the Kent State shootings at 1975 WRONG. I was thinking 25 years and put a "5" in, the shooting was in 1970, May 4 Posted by: Sally on May 5, 2005 04:49 PMSally: What timeframe do you see the possibility of the removal of President Bush either via impeachment, death, or possibly via resignation from office? Posted by: Neerav Trivedi on May 5, 2005 06:18 PMNancy, Your article is wonderful, as so many have stated... your usual excellent writing, insightful astrological analysis. I particularly enjoyed your comments on John Bolton and the possibility of his nomination dying in Committee. Here’s hoping you continue your track record, and he goes away. Kudos on the call on Arnold. Actually, I believe your call on the Nov. 2 election was correct. Kerry won. The black boxes reported differently. imo – The comments you make at the beginning of the article, the more political ones, read like an affirmation of the ideals set forth when this country began... the ones we have cherished for so many decades. Many of us see these ideals in danger... and we are angry that the movement to destroy our Republic has succeeded in getting to where it is today. Some believe the silence of the Progressives and Democrats after 9/11 contributed heavily to the success of the agenda presently being pursued. And we are angry. Anger, as you, a mental health professional know, is not hatred. While there is a climate of hatred in our country today, in my opinion it is engendered by the Right Wing of the Republican Party... those who would replace our Republic with a Theocracy. Most Progressives and Democrats are busily fighting the efforts to dismantle our PRESENT vision, one to which we have adhered for over two hundred years. I believe it is important to be angry, to oppose what one believes is wrong, to call a scoundrel a scoundrel. Visions are necessary and actually vital. But at the moment we are engaged in a battle — though no artillery is involved, other weapons are being used... religion, tax cuts, regressive legislation that rewards the Corporations and the rich, punishes the poor and the ordinary — especially the children... and the coming effort to abolish the filibuster and social security... annihilate the ‘New Deal.’ That ‘battle’ — actually it is a full-blown war — is creating a cloud of smoke that obliterates ‘vision’ — at least for those engaged in the struggle. Posted by: Jo on May 5, 2005 06:18 PMThis bit of ‘news’ was at Yahoo... has now disappeared from headlines [who wants to remember Abu Ghraib anyway!] FORT HOOD, Texas - A military judge Wednesday threw out Pfc. Lynndie England's guilty plea to abusing Iraqi detainees at Abu Ghraib prison, saying he was not convinced the Army reservist who appeared in some of the most notorious photos in the scandal knew her actions were wrong at the time. http://news.yahoo.com/news?tmpl=story&u=/ap/20050505/ap_on_re_us/prisoner_abuse_england Remember that ‘accountability’ you were calling for couple of threads ago, Sally? Guess we’re not going to get it anytime soon. Pfc. England doesn’t stand alone in her guilt, but she is guilty — of torture... and the judge’s ruling is a sham... imo. Military postal ballots go AWOL [http://politics.guardian.co.uk/election/story/0,15803,1477244,00.html?gusrc=ticker-103704] and London Guardian is predicting Labour historic 3rd win... Phony Tony is smiling; Meanwhile back at the ranch, more and more children are being killed in Iraq, as more and more folks are dying... so much for the FREE election on January 30th . So much for the forward move of Democracy in the Middle East. The economy is still in free-fall... and it won’t be a soft landing... like watching an F-16 nosedive to earth [who wants to bet the ‘earth’ won’t stop its progress] — probably the only thing that will stop this government in its tracks. Watch bradblog and rawstory today. They are promising major news; specifically, that the Delay-Abramoff thing goes deep into the WH. Oh, boy!! Posted by: shylurker on May 5, 2005 06:37 PMSigh. Please go counteract the fundies: Nancy, Thanks so much as always for your superbly insightful and elegantly constructed article. Standard + Poors rating agency has just downgraded the debt of both G.M. and Ford to "junk bond" status. This of course means that many pension funds and other institutions will no longer be allowed, through their own internal rules, to hold these companies' bonds as investments. It will therefore soon become much, much harder for these two previously iconic American manufacturing companies to raise funds on the capital markets. Do I feel sorry for all the workers soon to be laid off? Of course. But the real problem has for a long time been the greedy short-sighted management looking for the quick financial kills generated by sales of 6500 pound SUVs, so that their often single occupants could fashionably drive to the corner store in "style" and "security", rather than having the companies make a serious effort to design, build, and promote credible hybrid vehicles. When I was in the retail auto business (I've always been a car buff) selling BMWs, Infinitis, Porsches, etc. I well remember the guilt and remorse of many of my more thoughtful customers who said "I would love to support our economy by buying American, but none of the U.S. auto manufacturers are currently producing anything I would even remotely like to own or drive!" Just as I intuitively thought the Schiavo case was the beginning of a political and attitudinal sea change re peoples' opinions of Bushco, I strongly feel that today is somehow the symbolic if not yet the real beginning of the end of the American manufacturing and corporate empire. Mid May financial problems for sure! Posted by: Grizzly on May 5, 2005 07:04 PMNeerav: Anytime from now to late Feb. at the latest, however this is just one person and this administration is still in charge. It's time for all of us to stop waiting for something to happen and get involved in being a part of the changes. I would hope and pray that there wasn't an assassination that would throw too much into turmoil with the present leadership. I would much rather see a blockage of all they do as a use of the energy. What is happening in the US is only a part of the global tragic situation around the globe. America will first be finding out they are not the center of the Universe and that will be our most painful lesson. Posted by: Sally on May 5, 2005 07:05 PMAnd that, Sally, will be worth watching. =D Posted by: Neerav Trivedi on May 5, 2005 07:08 PMDHS Raid Liberal Blogger's Home! 12 late model unmarked cars and SUV's, filled with agents from Customs, Border Patrol, ATF, FBI , and DEA quietly entered the main gate of a Santa Cruz County, AZ ranch belonging to the family of TustonDAZ, a liberal blogger who writes "diaries" at Daily Kos, and is a sometime Guest Poster at Liberal Street Fighter http://www.dailykos.com/story/2005/5/4/225014/9272 ------------ This young man has been posting a series a articles about the vigilante 'border patrol' at Liberal Street Fighter - following is only one of many http://liberalstreetfighter.com/ee/index.php?/trifecta/comments/real_id_deal_really_sucks/ Posted by: Jo on May 5, 2005 07:30 PMand while you're at Brad Blog, look at what Adding more fuel to that fire for shrub removal http://www.tompaine.com/print/iraq_when_was_the_die_cast.php Posted by: Raj on May 5, 2005 08:44 PMI was sure Tony Blair would be taken out because of this (Iraq lies) but UK elections show that Labour is ahead. It will be the Labour party that will reappoint the PM but it's highly unlikely they wouldn't reappoint Blair at this juncture. He has Saturn square his natal Saturn (ruler of his midheaven) today, but his party is slated to do well. This is Tony's last hit of Saturn to Saturn, but it goes on to oppose his Asc. and square his Mercury, Blair is not out of the woods for this summer Posted by: Sally on May 5, 2005 09:11 PMMe too, Cap'n Sally, but alas... the electorate has been cowed into voting Labour to prevent Tory success, plus there were reports about fraud in the mailout of ballots and this a.m. report that military ballots were never received for voting. Alas, I wanted Labour to succeed... but without Tony. Good news across the Pond. DailyKos's own Markos has an article in the Guardian: http://blogs.guardian.co.uk/election2005/archives/2005/05/05/up_close_and_unfrisked.html Posted by: Jo on May 5, 2005 09:25 PMI admit to being deep in a well of cynicism these days, and it's good to be reminded to focus on the culture we WANT, rather than the culture we currently seem to have (I do wonder if a relative few are simply being very loud...) So, thank you Nancy! My, what an article! Regarding Bush being removed from his position, remember, everyone, like Sally says, this administration will go on. As things stand right now, that means the Res would then be CHENEY. Eeeeuuuuw!!!!!!!! I was as appalled as anyone when the Abu Graib photos came out. Still, I can't help but feel that the move towards "justice and punishment" should start at the TOP, rather than the bottom. Privates in the military are heavily trained to take orders, and there was never a time I even considered that wasn't the case in this instance. (I know some DON'T take orders, and I believe those who don't tend to work or speak, etc., AGAINST the military, specifically.) I don't believe they go over some line of "military appropriateness and acceptableness." After all, they're in a WAR. That right there tells us all the usual rules of societal living are dead. In short, and at minimum, war really *&#ks with your head. I'm for getting the people at the top, and giving lighter sentences to the underlings. If the ones at the top, who engineered this (whether overtly or subtly), aren't taken care of, you KNOW it all will stop with people like PFC Lynddie England. (and exactly what is the relevance of her "having Granger's child????" nat'l news seems to be pushing that.) They're required to do all the dirty work all the time. I agree with Jo and Nancy: I think it's important to both fight the good fight AND be working and visualizing what will replace what we have now. Posted by: Lori on May 5, 2005 10:06 PMhttp://www.washingtonmonthly.com BEING TOM DELAY....Dana Milbank reports on the travails of the House Majority Leader these days: Tom DeLay sneaks around the Capitol like a fugitive these days, using back doors and basement passages to avoid television cameras. He skips meetings where reporters might get a chance to film his answers to their questions. He makes unscheduled appearances so he won't attract a media mob and disrupt colleagues' events. ....Yesterday's installment of the chase began at 9 a.m., at the weekly meeting of the GOP House caucus. Last week, DeLay tried to thwart reporters by using the back door, but this backfired and he found himself cornered by cameras in the bowels of the Capitol, calling for security. Now, reporters suspect, he has aides figure out which entrance has the fewest cameras. ....When a photographer caught him slipping out the back door of his office last week, DeLay shouted for the photos to stop. For his weekly session with the news media — off camera — reporters yesterday were herded into DeLay's office, while the leader was escorted into the back entrance by bodyguards and his press secretary. Poor guy. What's more, as Charles Kuffner relays, DeLay's approval rating in his own district is now 51% disapproval vs. 42% approval. Dark days indeed. Gotta love it! Posted by: abilene on May 5, 2005 10:28 PMI check in with Steve Judd (stevejudd.co.uk) because he has a face that appeals to my maternal instincts, I guess, and I do enjoy his vignettes. Anyway, he is predicting that Phony Tony will be gone by Xmas. So, take heart, Jo. One more astrologer is in agreement. Posted by: shylurker on May 5, 2005 11:13 PMAs far as the corporate downfall goes, I though that a company's survival depended on slow, steady growth. This cancerous uncontrolled growth is a sure sign for me that many will fail. And those that employ common sense business practices instead of greed will prevail, I would imagine. A complete transformation is due, I think, since many companies who have been the staple of our economy will be going down, and we will have to make major adjustments in our whole economic infrastructure, giving way to foreign dominance in some markets while creating new ones. I think it is essential at this point to start offering visions of the near future while the extreme Republican faction is self destructing. It would so good to move now to convince the people that some of us are genuinely concerned about their problems and are offering some real solutions. A lot of energy can be diverted to gaining their confidence and trust. I believe trust is going to be one of the biggest issues in the next elections. It needs to be built now. And positive solutions are vital. Along with some hope that we can successfully extricate ourselves from this trap. Posted by: jm on May 5, 2005 11:13 PMGreg Palast too says Blair is loathed and the MP's will not re-elect him. The UK does not vote for the PM, they vote for the Party and the PM is the head of the party. In the fall (maybe sooner) the Party will name who they want to be their leader, and it won't be Blair. Posted by: Sally on May 5, 2005 11:21 PMI think we should have a party for the Party when that happens.... Blair's release. Posted by: jm on May 6, 2005 12:04 AM
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2005/printer_050505B.shtml Posted by: wv on May 6, 2005 12:31 AMGuardian reports: Labour is set to win a historic third term but with a sharply reduced majority, according to exit polls and swings against the government in the first declared constituencies. Labour won the 2001 election with a 165 majority. ----------- Labour Party will undoubtedly win, but with a significant drop in its majority. The Queen may indicate tomorrow that Phony Tony is still the PM [as head of the Labour Party] but as Palast and others have indicated, Tony is an albatross around the neck of the Party. Shylurker, let's hope they ask him to step down real soon... I think Brown is expecting it... their little agreement in the bar ten or so years ago, is up for payment... It's my understanding that it is still somewhat a winner take all affair... is that correct? I hear there is reform in the air, with talk of coalitions for future elections. Again, I'm not that clear on Brits' politics. Posted by: Jo on May 6, 2005 01:05 AMDear shylurker... Jo, Steve Judd, who lives there, of course, has this to say about Phony Tony, "I think the guy’s deranged, getting worse and an escapist." Thought that would get a chuckle out of you. Teg, It is mind-blowing, is it not? And they've got all the bases covered, too. Apparently, their invisible sky being made all those "fossils" and things during the act of creation a few thouand years ago and planted them to test the faithful. Ah, yes. Posted by: shylurker on May 6, 2005 01:12 AMSomeone posted a great link to an interview with Richard Dawkins in the last few days. I wanted to send it to someone I was chatting with last nite on a backgammon site, but can't find it. If anyone can recall what site it was on, could you let me know pls? Tyvm.
Oops, sorry, Jo: "Thought you would get a chuckle out of that." I saw the error flash by as the message posted. Thnx for yr forbearance. Posted by: shylurker on May 6, 2005 01:14 AMRe: Ron Reagan......whom I like better every time I see him, was fighting the fundies today, and got sufficiently exercised to let out 2 personal facts I hadn't known. Ron is an atheist and his wife is a Buddhist. Did a quick mental check and realised that by far the nicest, kindest, most caring individuals I know tend to be atheists and buddhists. (Sometimes both) And we all know where the fundies land on the "kind and caring" scale. It should make people think a bit, don't you think? LOL Posted by: Teg on May 6, 2005 01:21 AMI was listening to part of Amy Goodman's Democracy Now tonight. There was someone on talking about the Christian Right. What struck me was the concept, which I think is recently gaining traction, that the people who have taken over the Republican Party and the people who are running the country want to make America a Christian nation. They want a theocracy. I know this isn't new to us, but my sense was that it is "out there" more than it has been, the sheer audacity of it may be starting to hit people. I think this fact needs to be driven home more and more. Many of the people who vote Republican aren't quite aware what they are following. I also think the filibuster issue needs to be connected to this radical Christian issue. The GOP leaders want to get rid of the filibuster so Bush can put these radical right wing judges on the bench and move us further and further toward a theocracy. Posted by: Nancy on May 6, 2005 02:53 AMJo, I enjoy and admire your posts but got to disagree on the Lyddie England ruling. I was thrilled that the officer/judge threw out her plea. Lori is right that the higher-ups who set the standards for Abu Graib should be held responsible. This administration's defense that a few privates and non-coms got together and decided to mistreat prisoners in a US military facility defies belief. The army just doesn't work that way. Clearly Lyddie's lawyers were influenced by the fact that her lover got 10 years after he testified that he was obeying orders. It was in the best interests of their client that she cop a plea. But it isn't in the best interest of American justice. Lyddie England is not an admirable person-- she is an uneducated, unsophisticated follower. But it would take more independence and moral courage than most possess to stand up for what is right by disobeying a direct order. One main thing that is drilled into recruits is that disobeying a direct order can result in courts martial and maybe even the death penalty. Posted by: Barbara on May 6, 2005 03:01 AMWell, for what it is worth, Shrub's solar return for 2005 is packed with some violence and Saturn. Thanks for your lucidity, Nancy Posted by: Beasley on May 6, 2005 03:09 AMNancy, do check out this thread. I agree this kind of thing needs to be widely publicized. Oh, and thanks ever so much for another great article. Are we blessed or what? Posted by: shylurker on May 6, 2005 03:11 AMI found the Dawkins article Posted by: Teg on May 6, 2005 03:34 AMThey excommunicated all the Dems at that church?!! This goes along with waht the the guy on Democracy Now was saying. He said it isn't just that they want a Christian country, but that they demonize anyone who disagrees with them. He said there is no place in the country for the rest of us who are seen by these people as the enemy, as satanic. This story about the church excommunicating the Dems is a perfect example of the demoninization of all who disagree. Posted by: Nancy on May 6, 2005 03:45 AMI trust they (that "church") are being reported to the IRS. We gotta use that separation of church and state thing as long as we got it. Posted by: shylurker on May 6, 2005 03:47 AMPretty soon we'll be having a repeat of the Salem witch trials. If you've every read the Arthur Miller play, "The Crucible," it is a very similar mindset and set of behaviors. Posted by: Sharon on May 6, 2005 04:30 AMSorry, but I ran across another one. Do you support Bolton? Barbara, Lori --- While I agree that those higher up the chain of command, (and I think all the way up to *) ought to be held accountable, I do not believe the judge was correct in ruling that Pfc. Lyndie England did not "know right from wrong." Ignorance is never a justification in a court of law... not American law. Furthermore, there have been numerous retired military officers speaking to the matter of refusal of orders... as well as Sgts. and other non-commissioned officers. Some enlisted people have spoken out about disobeying orders that are illegal and/or immoral. One does not have to obey an illegal order. In 1968 soldiers obeyed orders to 'search and destroy' --- to shoot when there was no gunfire in their direction, to shoot to kill... "those Gooks"... as they called them. My Lai and other incidents in Viet Nam are still fresh in the memories of some. It is perfectly acceptable for you to disagree with my opinion. :) I do believe Pfc. England knows right from wrong, and as the photos record her activities and those of others in her group, they appear to be enjoying their wrong doing. I think they should be punished. I also think their commanding officers, and their superiors, right up to Gonzales who crafted the memo and did the bidding of the White House --- they should all be punished. Of course you are entitled to a different opinion, and if I am the only person on this board or in this country who feels Pfc. England should be punished, that is still okay with me. Part of the anger toward Tony Blair having lied about the legality of the invasion of Irag has to do with the protection of the British soldiers. Military commanders wanted to know BEFORE they sent their troops into Iraq, if the invasion was legal; because if not, they would have to stand before a War Crimes tribunal. In 2002 then Sec'y of State Colin Powell took care of exempting the US and its military from war crimes ('til the end of time, I guess!) when he went to Denmark. The Brits still consider themselves part of the international community. They are therefore concerned for their troops' vulnerability to charges of war crimes. Namaste Posted by: Jo on May 6, 2005 05:20 AMre: that damned fortunate Jupiter In 1991, "that damned fortunate Jupiter" was supposed to be bringing something wonderful into my life, and I could FEEL it coming. Didn't need an astrologer to tell me it was on its way. What was it? I got creamed in a car accident and wound up a quad [but in such incredible pain I didn't breathe for more than a year...I hyperventilated, and had zero control over my breath, so I couldn't even try to "breathe my way out" of the pain]. The doctors told me the most for which I could hope was a bit of movement in my hands and lower arms... All in all, it WAS "a wonderful thing," and my life is e'er split as "before the accident" and "after the accident." In hindsight [and "fully recovered" (only I am aware of the things which never came back)], I wouldn't have missed it for the world. But neither would I wish such an experience "on my worst enemy." Perhaps * has something equally as "fortunate" and life-changing in his future. I wear no rose-colored glasses with regards to "that damned fortunate Jupiter." As a matter of fact, Jupiter scares the holy crap out of me, now. Hey, Jupe! Do me a favor and don't do me any favors, okay?! Posted by: vcz on May 6, 2005 06:03 AMThe Korea Herald B-2 bombers, F-15E fighters in Guam, Aegis ships in Japan The U.S. military is beefing up its military capabilities in the Pacific by deploying high-tech aircraft and Navy vessels amid worsening assessments of the prospects of an early solution of the North Korean nuclear standoff. http://www.koreaherald.co.kr/SITE/data/html_dir/2005/05/06/200505060007.asp Posted by: Jo on May 6, 2005 06:37 AMIt's sad, really... how delusional the people in that so-called "Christian" church are. They are so totally out of touch with the ideas of Christ himself. That, or they have some masochistic need to get beaten up by the Bushistas and Corporatists. Unless most of their members are making more than $200,000 and living at modest means, they could probably use a bit of tax relief and a more affordable health care plan. They wouldn't even have to ask me to confess and leave. I'd be out that door so fast without even bothering to look back. But maybe the good that eventually comes out of this will be that people begin to notice and question the "unholy" alliance between some of these churches and the Bush-GOP-Corporatists. Someone ask Pat Robertson what a so-called "Man of God" needs with a multi-million dollar estate here on Earth? Posted by: NEOBuckeye on May 6, 2005 06:40 AMHello, Jo, We agree that Lyddie England should be punished. What I didn't agree with was the deal the Army made with her lawyers to get her to plead guilty, say she "conspired" to abuse prisoners, so she would get an agreed-upon lighter sentence and the higher-ups would be ignored. If a private refuses illegal orders (which she should) she is punished. If she obeys them and is found out, she is punished. Meanwhile, the Resident and his merry torturers face no consequences (in this life, at least.) Posted by: Barbara on May 6, 2005 01:59 PMConyers is hot on the trail of this leaked memo about the prewar Bush/Blair deal. With 57% saying this war wasn't such a good idea after all, I wonder. Posted by: jm on May 6, 2005 02:59 PMJo, I very much enjoy and appreciate your postings; you have an excellent point about ignorance of the law being no excuse/defense for breaking the law. And as Barbara said, she and I both agree Pfc. England should receive some punishment. Horrible catch-22, though, that she points out about the life of a private. Additionally, we're talking about kids, basically, who are taken at a young and vulnerable age and put through God (and people who have gone through it themselves) knows what all in training. There's a whole psychological factor at play here; it's not just a matter of rational intellectual knowledge. And while we can look at, say, a photo of Pfc. England smiling as she's doing her dirty deed(s), how many of us know of crabby people who smile for photos when the photographer says, "say 'cheese?'" My point being that we know neither the details of interactions at the time, nor what was going on inside of England while this all took place. But Jo, let me assure you, in addition to Barbara and I agreeing that England should bear some consequences, others agree as well, including the friend with whom I discussed this last weekend, prior to the mistrial. I read in the paper today that "Army Reserve Brigadeer General Janis Karpinski, whose unit was in charge during the Abu Graib prisoner abuses...," has been demoted to colonel, "a move that required approval by the president." "The Army said three more senior generals had been cleared of wrongdoing...That means Karpinski is the only general to be disciplined...She has said publicly that she was not given full authority over Abu Graib." "...The Army also said...one colonel and two lieutenant colonels* linked to detainee abuses in Iraq and Afghanistan were given unspecified administrative punishment. Also, two other Lt. Col. were given letters of reprimand. *Exactly WHY is c-o-l-o-n-e-l pronounced "kernel?" Namaste, yourself, Jo. ;-D I truly love reading your posts! I do, I do! (And yours, Barbara. Very informative, thank you! And all of them. ALL Y'ALL'S posts on this site.) Posted by: Lori on May 6, 2005 04:18 PMhttp://www.gregpalast.com/detail.cfm?artid=425&row=0 TONY BLAIR DIDN'T WIN A British reporter from America explains why Britons voted for a guy named 'Brown' - not Blair http://www.gregpalast.com/blair_card.html Posted by: Pat C on May 6, 2005 04:19 PMVCZ: WHAT a story! Wow, that is really something! And very interesting view of it all, on your part. I tend to view life events along the same kind of lines. I'm sure the experience in itself was horrible, but WONDERFUL that you've come out of it as you have! NeoBuckeye: "It's sad, really... how delusional the people in that so-called "Christian" church are. They are so totally out of touch with the ideas of Christ himself." They sure are!! Which has prompted my husband to assign a new label to that bunch: "Old Testamentarians." Use it in good health! Posted by: Lori on May 6, 2005 04:25 PM"Old Testamentarians" is a great title, Lori. But I think I'm going to stick with "ignorant idiots". :-) Posted by: Jonathan on May 6, 2005 04:47 PMLori, Right back atcha with the love! Namaste Posted by: Jo on May 6, 2005 05:14 PMNancy, very eloquent article! Kudos to you!!! Pat QOP - Happy Belated Birthday! and here's something for everyone to (hopefully) smile about! 10 & 16 are particularly funny! 26 is a definite NO NO! ----- 1. Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead. Do not walk ahead of me, for I may not follow. Do not walk beside me either. Just pretty much leave me the hell alone. 2. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt and a leaking tire. 3. It's always darkest before dawn. So if you're going to steal your neighbor's newspaper, that's 4. Sex is like air. It's not important unless you aren't getting any. 5. Don't be irreplaceable. If you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted. 6. No one is listening until you fart. 7. Always remember you're unique- Just like everyone else. 8. Never test the depth of the water with both feet. 9. If you think nobody cares if you're alive, try missing a couple of car payments. 10. Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them you're a mile away and you have their shoes. 11. If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you. 12. Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day. 13. If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably worth it. 14. If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything. 15. Some days you are the bug; some days you are the windshield. 16. Don't worry; it only seems kinky the first time. 17. Good judgment comes from bad experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgment. 18 The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket. 19. A closed mouth gathers no foot. 20. Duct tape is like the Force. It has a light side and a dark side, and it holds the universe together. 21. There are two theories to arguing with women. Neither one works. 22. Generally speaking, you aren't learning much when your lips are moving. 23. Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it. 24. Never miss a good chance to shut up. 25. We are born naked, wet and hungry, and get slapped on our butt...Then things get worse. 26. Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night. 27. There is a fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness." 28. No matter what happens, somebody will find a way to take it too seriously. 29. There comes a time when you should stop expecting other people to make a big deal about your birthday ... around age 11. 30. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them. THE MOST WASTED DAY OF ALL IS ONE IN WHICH WE HAVE NOT LAUGHED Posted by: Marta on May 6, 2005 05:38 PM Marta, You sure got my endorphins going... FUNNYYYY... thank you. Made my day! Esp after the long night watching the Brits' returns online... Posted by: Jo on May 6, 2005 06:05 PMJo, thanks ... I'm glad ... and still smiling myself! Posted by: Marta on May 6, 2005 06:19 PMMarta, Funny!! Thanks! #26 did, in fact, make me snicker aloud. Jonathan: "ignorant idiots" is a lot nicer than the synomyms we use for OTs! haha! (I got it slightly wrong: should be "testamentians," as opposed to "testamentarians," but I guess either would work.) Cheers to you, J! Posted by: Lori on May 6, 2005 06:26 PMMarta, thank you for that! I needed that laugh! Posted by: Morgana on May 6, 2005 07:05 PMGosh brilliant astrology folks; how come no one is having a scream about the "Real ID Card" rider on the new appropriations bill that just passed the House yesterday? A Federal ID card required for ALL US citizens (run by your state and unfunded by the govt) with ALL your personal info on a central database!! It's the newest Fascist ploy stuck onto a bill as a Poison Pill that no one wants to say No to because the bill is for military appropriations. Only 58 Dems in the House had the spine to say No. (But why isn't everyone complaining about the wasted billions that have already disappeared without any new armour for the troops or vehicles? Do we think more millions won't disappear too?) Instead of better protection at ports, borders, chemical & nuclear plants they want to keep closer tabs on citizens!! Please write your senators and tell them not to pass that horrible bill when it goes to the Senate in 2 weeks. More info here. Sally or Nancy, do you think the National ID card could break the Neocons plans? Is it on the Senate agenda yet? If it passes we are no longer living in a free society! More info on ID card by Declan McCullagh: Thanks for yet again another great piece of writing Nancy. With all the talk of national ID cards of late, I have to share this email I received from a friend this morning (actually the founder and major shareholder of a multimillion$ international corporation who can't stand Bush) - big brother is certainly here - who knew! It seems NATO passed something after the sept 11 attack and this website has made a deal with NATO. I notice that there is a link to dial-a-prayer type info at the top so I would assume it may be right wing funded perhaps. I URGE EVERYONE TO READ THIS AND PASS IT ON The website address http://www.humnri.com/enter/passport Sorry guys, its a joke!!!! Posted by: Jeanie on May 6, 2005 09:22 PM
The message is ready to be sent with the following file or link attachments: Hey....I received an email from VCZ...she has been bitten by a brown recluse spider....everyone, it would be wonderful if you all could get a little healing light heading towards her in West Palm Beach FLA....isn't this such a Neptunian thing? VCZ...we are transmitting! Posted by: judi gemini on May 6, 2005 09:39 PMI received a letter from the intuitive I worked with for 2.5 years yesterday....I wanted to copy a few things she said and recommend her web site, which is only about her art...some lovely monographs... She (Serena Smith) wrote: http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/odd_invitation Read this and know the bozos, dingbats running the country after steraling elections Posted by: Raj on May 6, 2005 10:00 PMJust goes to show bozos will take money from anybody including terrorists to run their campaign Teresa came to us on the last thread I believe and announced that she had been contacted for the second time to talk on TV about her views on social security (the first time was in early Dec of last year). Teresa I apologize for not responding... I believe you asked Guru Mike for guidance and he gave a few words... but, please tell us how that is going for you... when we you be interviewed again, and will we be able to view when the interview is aired? Sending white light to you, know that you will do a wonderful job as you did last year... Namaste Posted by: Jo on May 6, 2005 10:36 PMNew take on an oldie Abbott & Costello -new style
Who's On First" -- new version
Condi: Sir, I have the report here about the new leader of China. George: Great. Lay it on me. Condi: Hu is the new leader of China. George: That's what I want to know. Condi: That's what I'm telling you. George: That's what I'm asking you. Who is the new leader of China? Condi: Yes. George: I mean the fellow's name. Condi: ; Hu. George: The guy in China. Condi: Hu. George: The new leader of China. Condi: Hu. George: The main man in China! Condi: Hu is leading China. George: Now whaddya' asking me for? Condi: I'm telling you, Hu is leading China. George: Well, I'm asking you. Who is leading China? Condi: That's the man's name. George: That's who's name? Condi: Yes. George: Will you, or will you not, tell me the name of the new leader of China? Condi: Yes, sir. George: Yassir? Yassir Arafat is in China? I thought he was in the Middle East, dead. Condi: That's correct. George: Then who is in China? Condi: Yes, sir. George: Yassir is in China? Condi: No, sir. George: Then who is? Condi: Yes, sir. George: Yassir? Condi: No, sir. George: Look Condi. I need to know the name of the new leader of China. Get me the Secretary General of the U.N. on the phone. Condi: Kofi? George: No, thanks. Condi: You want Kofi? George: No. Condi: You don't want Kofi. George: No. But now that you mention it, I could use a glass of milk. And then get me the U.N. Condi: Yes, sir. George: Not Yassir! The guy at the U.N. Condi: Kofi? George: Milk! Will you please make the call? Condi: And call who? George: Who is the guy at the U.N? Condi: Hu is the guy in China. George: Will you stay out of China?! Condi: Yes, sir. George: And stay out of the Middle East! Just get me the guy at the U.N. Condi: Kofi. George: All right! With cream and two sugars. Now get on the phone!
Who's On First" -- new version George: Condi! Nice to see you. What's happening? Condi: Sir, I have the report here about the new leader of China. George: Great. Lay it on me. Condi: Hu is the new leader of China. George: That's what I want to know. Condi: That's what I'm telling you. George: That's what I'm asking you. Who is the new leader of China? Condi: Yes. George: I mean the fellow's name. Condi: ; Hu. George: The guy in China. Condi: Hu. George: The new leader of China. Condi: Hu. George: The main man in China! Condi: Hu is leading China. George: Now whaddya' asking me for? Condi: I'm telling you, Hu is leading China. George: Well, I'm asking you. Who is leading China? Condi: That's the man's name. George: That's who's name? Condi: Yes. George: Will you, or will you not, tell me the name of the new leader of China? Condi: Yes, sir. George: Yassir? Yassir Arafat is in China? I thought he was in the Middle East, dead. Condi: That's correct. George: Then who is in China? Condi: Yes, sir. George: Yassir is in China? Condi: No, sir. George: Then who is? Condi: Yes, sir. George: Yassir? Condi: No, sir. George: Look Condi. I need to know the name of the new leader of China. Get me the Secretary General of the U.N. on the phone. Condi: Kofi? George: No, thanks. Condi: You want Kofi? George: No. Condi: You don't want Kofi. George: No. But now that you mention it, I could use a glass of milk. And then get me the U.N. Condi: Yes, sir. George: Not Yassir! The guy at the U.N. Condi: Kofi? George: Milk! Will you please make the call? Condi: And call who? George: Who is the guy at the U.N? Condi: Hu is the guy in China. George: Will you stay out of China?! Condi: Yes, sir. George: And stay out of the Middle East! Just get me the guy at the U.N. Condi: Kofi. George: All right! With cream and two sugars. Now get on the phone!
Who's On First" -- new version George: Condi! Nice to see you. What's happening? Condi: Sir, I have the report here about the new leader of China. George: Great. Lay it on me. Condi: Hu is the new leader of China. George: That's what I want to know. Condi: That's what I'm telling you. George: That's what I'm asking you. Who is the new leader of China? Condi: Yes. George: I mean the fellow's name. Condi: ; Hu. George: The guy in China. Condi: Hu. George: The new leader of China. Condi: Hu. George: The main man in China! Condi: Hu is leading China. George: Now whaddya' asking me for? Condi: I'm telling you, Hu is leading China. George: Well, I'm asking you. Who is leading China? Condi: That's the man's name. George: That's who's name? Condi: Yes. George: Will you, or will you not, tell me the name of the new leader of China? Condi: Yes, sir. George: Yassir? Yassir Arafat is in China? I thought he was in the Middle East, dead. Condi: That's correct. George: Then who is in China? Condi: Yes, sir. George: Yassir is in China? Condi: No, sir. George: Then who is? Condi: Yes, sir. George: Yassir? Condi: No, sir. George: Look Condi. I need to know the name of the new leader of China. Get me the Secretary General of the U.N. on the phone. Condi: Kofi? George: No, thanks. Condi: You want Kofi? George: No. Condi: You don't want Kofi. George: No. But now that you mention it, I could use a glass of milk. And then get me the U.N. Condi: Yes, sir. George: Not Yassir! The guy at the U.N. Condi: Kofi? George: Milk! Will you please make the call? Condi: And call who? George: Who is the guy at the U.N? Condi: Hu is the guy in China. George: Will you stay out of China?! Condi: Yes, sir. George: And stay out of the Middle East! Just get me the guy at the U.N. Condi: Kofi. George: All right! With cream and two sugars. Now get on the phone!
Thanks, Jo. I confess I haven't been on the board for the past week so I haven't seen Mike's response but I'll check it out. The re-interview resulted in a 10-second sound bite. I was asked what I would do if social security wasn't there. My response was that I hoped I still had some family around and they liked me well enough to take me in. My natural inclination for anonymity and privacy is highly offended by the Real I.D. bill passed by the House. I urge all of you to write your senator. Posted by: Teresa on May 6, 2005 11:10 PMJo, Sally... you are historians and maybe you could help me with this. And any others with expertise. It crossed my mind that in recent history it has been the Democrats that have had the most power. The great leaders of the last century have been Dems... right? I was thinking that maybe this madness is a Republican backlash from feeling so powerless. They are out of control with this newfound power knowing that it will probably be shortlived. Maybe it will have to run its course before they find their proper position. It seems that the Democratic party still represents the majority, so maybe in the big picture, it is an urge toward equilibrium. And an opportunity for progressives to reorganize and mobilize. Posted by: jm on May 7, 2005 12:57 AMRobin Cook on Blair's future... http://politics.guardian.co.uk/print/0,3858,5188401-116241,00.html Posted by: wv on May 7, 2005 02:27 AMVCZ very sorry to hear about that horrific Jupiter "hour." Mon Dieu! I think these guys in the crypts of Washington or where ever already know how many pimples we have and where. I was sent a letter a while back written in Arabic and English asking me if I would like to "join" the Army or some branch of it to do some translation work, and would I please put them in touch with other Arabic speaking people. I should have saved the letter, but I trashed it. Yes, I have traveled a bit, and my passport says I was born in Beirut, but I have never, ever spoken to the Army, Navy, Foreign Service, CIA, FBI or any such organization. Spooks every where. How does one know whether or how one is being watched, listened to? Posted by: Beasley on May 7, 2005 02:28 AMvcz, I do hope you are well. Please let us all know how you are doing. ................ Bush Bows to Logging, Energy and Mining Interests Alaska's Burning Heart Molly Ivins | The Current State of American Energy Policy South Africa Says Climate Change Will See Malaria Soar Neerav, I'm too biased this week to be make a credible prediction (cleverly implying i can make them at other times, watch me, i'm the spawn of the hallowed one). i'm all for the 'witching period'...as good an excuse as anyfor hope! wv, that's incredibly funny. what a talent you are. i'm sure that will be seen all over the internet(s). extremely clever. teresa, i did respond on the previous thread and what you did sounds great. that's a very good line. that's exactly what guido would do (then he'get drunk and steal another rhubarb pie from jo). Posted by: mike on May 7, 2005 03:09 AMjm, Wilson and FDR were both Democrats and shepherded us through both WWI and WWII. McKinley was in charge for the Spanish-American War. He was a Republican. That was another war started by lies. The Maine was not blown up by the Spaniards but the yellow journalists of the day built it up in a similar fashion to the run-up to the Iraq War. McKinley took the U.S. to war and used the opportunity for a major land grab (i.e., the Phillipines, Guam). Prior to McKinley, there was Lincoln, another great president, who was also a Republican back when the party was new and Republicans represented the interests of those who wanted to end slavery. The Republican party underwent a major change after Lincoln's death, becoming pro-business. I don't count Korea and Vietnam because they were not officially "wars" although Eisenhower, a Republican, first got us involved in Vietnam by sending in advisors to assist the French. Someone once told me that when the U.S. needed a great leader in a time of crisis, a great leader emerged. That is evident with Lincoln, Wilson and FDR. George W. Bush wants to rank himself with those leaders but he isn't fit to lick their boots. On another subject, here is a symbolic gesture that I am proud came from a local here in Independence: http://www.thekansascitychannel.com/politics/4461303/detail.html Posted by: Teresa on May 7, 2005 03:14 AMMike, I hope Guido someday makes a trip to the Midwest. I'd be glad to put him up. I make a mean batch of chocolate chip cookies and the applesauce raisin ain't too bad either. Posted by: Teresa on May 7, 2005 03:16 AMBeasley, a Brown Recluse spider is a very poisonous, tiny brown spider found throughout the South. People bitten by a young spider have been sick for weeks. I've never read what the toxin type is; but when I lived in the South, those spiders scared me much more than a black widow ever did. Jeanie, this is the real site for them: Thanks Jill G. Posted by: Beasley on May 7, 2005 03:31 AMTeresa, thanks... As sorry as it is, I got the feeling that this a brief Republican out of control orgy. They should be hitting the wall being so out of balance. But this group frenzy is what's happening at the moment. I don't think they can sustain it much longer. Posted by: jm on May 7, 2005 03:33 AMHeard it first on Astroworld!--referring to the East Waynesville (NC) Baptist Church's action against their Democratic members. Here is a Kos link on the story >http://www.dailykos.com/storyonly/2005/5/5/6/84353/67437 Hope the link works. If not, just try and find it from there. It appears that American Christians now have a clear choice: follow Bush or follow Jesus. And it had better be the former if they want to remain members of the East Waynesville Baptist Church. Posted by: Barbara on May 7, 2005 04:04 AMhttp://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20050506/ap_on_re_eu/vatican_jesuit_magazine_1 Editor of Jesuit Magazine Leaving The editor of the Jesuit weekly America is leaving the magazine after the Vatican received complaints about articles he published on touchy issues such as same-sex marriages and stem cell research, Jesuit officials said Friday. The Rev. Thomas J. Reese, a widely respected expert on the Catholic Church and the Vatican who was editor for seven years, is being replaced by his deputy, the Rev. Drew Christiansen, the magazine said in a statement. Jesuit officials in Rome and the United States, who spoke on condition they not be identified, said some American bishops had contacted the Vatican's Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith about articles in the magazine over the years that had presented both sides of controversies over sensitive church issues. The Vatican has had a sometimes tense relationship with the Jesuits, some of whose members in the past have questioned papal pronouncements on birth control, priestly celibacy and the ban on women priests. More... Posted by: Pat C on May 7, 2005 04:05 AMCounerbalance to desiderata (1972. I remhttp://www.nationallampoon.com/flashbacks/deteriorata/default2.aspember it well). Whoops! LAS VEGAS - Senate Democratic leader Harry Reid called President Bush "a loser" during a civics discussion with a group of teenagers at a high school on Friday. Thank you for your assessment of Harry Reid, Nancy. I was hoping someone would!
Happy Apres-birthday, PQ! You got through it... in good spirits, it seems. I am delighted. Posted by: jm on May 7, 2005 05:05 AMIf anyone missed "Real Time" on HBO, I hope you catch it on the rerun this week. Outstanding for the most part. No minced words on the takeover by the religious right. Posted by: Pat C on May 7, 2005 05:16 AMThe other thing about Brown Recluse spiders is that the poison from their bites, if left unchecked, can ferment for weeks and rot the entire area around the bite wound. Not pretty at all, though it is treatable if one doesn't put it off too long. Hopefully VCZ is getting some good care. It seems like every creature with a nasty bite is more common in the South, though we supposedly have them here in the North as well. I hear they like outdoor sheds and garages. -- Concerning the history of parties, presidents and leaders in this country: I think the "Grand Old Party" is illustrating for all to see right now why they could never hold on to power for very long in the past, and why, after their fleeting reign now, that they should never again be allowed to possess meaningful power of any sort, at any level of government. They clearly are not mentally, emotionally and spiritually mature enough to handle it, and it shows by their thoughtless, heartless, reckless, destructive, even murderous actions (i.e. Iraq & Afghanistan). I bet that many of them never thought they would see this much power, and have literally become drunken and mad with it. But as much as they have desired all of this power, they fear losing it even more -- "they" being the corporatists, neo-cons, "christian" fundamentalists and the other regressive elements driving the GOP's grab for total power and control over all. For this, I always like to use an analogy of holding sand in the palm of your hand. If you hold your hand open, you will probably manage to hold onto many more of the grains for a much longer period of time than if you choose to close your hand tightly around them. Somehow, in a tight grip, over time, all of the grains will eventually manage to slip through. The grains of sand represent public support and respect, which is the very essence of all political power. One's "trust" in the spirit of the people is determined by whether one's hand is completely open (total trust) or closed very tightly (no trust, personal insecurity). Grains "slipping through" can either represent objection and dissent from an oppressive closed handed leader, or the natural dissipation of an open handed leader's power and influence, as his ideas and leadership realize their full potential. Hence, open hand = an open leader/leadership which endures and prospers for a long time. A closed, tight hand = closed leadership (i.e. oligarchy, dictatorship, etc.) which eventually and inevitably fails in revolt and revolution, no matter how violent or severe the intimidation or the opression. Someone else on an earlier thread here at AW noted how the Bushes, going back to Prescott, have always coveted power and influence, but they just can't seem to hold onto it for very long. Maybe, if only they would open their hands a little more with those grains, rather than try and hoard all of them for themselves, they would know better fortune in this regard. But perhaps this also points out the fundamental motive and desire for political power. If political power is granted by the will of the people, then shouldn't one's desire for power only be to serve the people? Perhaps those who posess motives and intentions counter to this purpose are always, eventually doomed to fail? At any rate, as the pendulum finally begins to swing back the other way and the common people finally fight back en masse against this close-handed, desperate, immature and insecure cabal of men, they must not rest until the entire Republican Party and the power structure behind it has been driven out of power, disincorporated and totally abolished. No party that desires to dominate all of the word and acts on that desire should be allowed to remain in existence. I really think that the GOP must be sent packing, to join the American Whigs of old. But perhaps their end could be the beginning, not of Democratic Party dominance per se, but of a Multi-Party Parliamentary system of government right here in the US that supports and encourages diversity in views and opinions. Perhaps the interest groups that form the coalitions that are the current Big Tent parties could break out and form their own party? How about Labor/Liberal Democrats out of the current Democratic Party? Maybe the Green Party could finally ascend to become a major party and take on the more radical liberal Democrats, further to the Left? The GOP could give way to the (Classic) Conservatives, the "Christian" Party, and perhaps a real Libertarian Party. By forcing each of the interest groups within the current party structure to stand alone on its own merits, and possibly form outwardly visible coalitions with the other interest/parties, I believe that this would be a far more honest and open representation of the diverse interests in our country than what we currently have. The good news is, Howard Dean has actually stated that he would push for an overhaul to a Multi-Party system of government whenever the Democrats regain their majority in Congress. The question, however is, how long will it take to get to that point? The current Republican cabal will do absolutely anything to hold onto their power. They are absolutely terrified of the idea that they can lose, fail or even be thrown out of power, and they will do anything and everything to control any possible means by which their end may come. But perhaps, as Nancy pointed out in her wonderful article, they are already giving power to their worst fears, and hence their fall from power. Posted by: NEOBuckeye on May 7, 2005 07:06 AMVery, very well articulated, NEObuckeye. You are so right about the sand and the open hand. I'm going to keep that in mind for myself. Posted by: jm on May 7, 2005 07:32 AMthis came from VCZ earlier today (I have been working and tonight working late, which is why I am just now posting...there are many new things for me to deal with in getting used to apartment living...like the couple upstairs (she's pregnant) having sex on a squeaky bed directly overhead of where my drawing table is....had to wait to work! ) So this is for all of you who could be exposed to the brown recluse: VCZ wrote: |> CAN YOU GET TO TREATMENT FAST IF YOU NEED TO? The treatment is antihistamines + antibiotics + steroids + ibuprofen. I started on the ibuprofen, right away. Took a couple of benadryls a few hours ago, just because I could feel pain running from the bite to my elbow, and the bruise is Hey guys, I know I haven't posted in awhile. Since I teach bilingual Kindergarten here, the end of the school year is so busy that I don't have time to surf the net much. Anyway, I got news from a longtime friend today (friends since high school). He got fired from his job as a counselor when they found out he was gay!!! I told him years ago that he should move to liberal Austin, but he wanted to stay in south Texas where the Catholic Church owns everything. It just makes me sick. I'm thinking about organizing a protest. About Bush being impeached or being out of office, I think it looks really favorable that he will not finish his term, especially with a Neptune/Sun/Chiron conjunction on the second-term chart's Midheaven. Other factors especially with transits to Saturn show a very difficult second term. Thanks AW. So many of us have found a home here. It is great that so many are so supportive. Thank you Posted by: Travieso on May 7, 2005 01:57 PMPat C....one of the things I miss the most about having to give up HBO was Bill Mahr''s Real Time..... Posted by: judi gemini on May 7, 2005 03:11 PMTo this place of retreat, - Yao Ho (831) --------------- Well, a different YaHoo for sure...
David Ray Griffin The message is ready to be sent with the following file or link attachments: I saw "Kingdowm of Heaven" last night (hey Nancy, that's a good title for your next article for Starlight News), and it was all about the Muslims and Christain Crusades during the Middle Ages in Europe, and it just occured to me that what President Bush and his Republican/Christain Extremists are doing is exactly that. Behind the viel of spreading democracy in the Middle East by President Bush is the crusading of Christians to take back the Middle East from the Muslims (possibly in tandem with the radical Zionist Jews such as Ariel Sharon and his government), especially Jerusalem, to the Christain/Jewish faith, and spread the Christain faith by force (i.e. military force) at the expense of Muslims, hence renewing the Christian and Muslim Crusades. I am not saying that Christianity and Judaism are evil, piece of crap religions (I am Hindu, by the way), but the radical/extremists Christains such as Bush and others in government, plus the radical Zionists such as Sharon can cause a major war in the Middle East between the radical/extremists in the Judeo-Christain faith (combining the two religions into one) of George W. Bush and Ariel Sharon, and the extremist/radical Muslims, that it will seem very much like the Crusades. There are more similarities between Christianity and Judaism then there are between any or both those two religions and Islam, so natrually, those two religions would "gang up" against Islam, which is also why Bush's "War of Terror" and the "Iraq War", in addition, the Bush regime is probably secretly supporting Ariel Sharon and his radical Jewish (Zionist) government, especailly against the Palestinians and the other Arab nations of the Middle East - even secretly helping Isreal to attack Iran (if this is in fact true). As you can see, the parallels between the Crusades by Christians into Middle Eastern land to spread Christanity (and Judaism to some extent) by extremists in those religions against Muslims during the Middle Ages (as seen in the movie "Kingdom of Heaven"); and Bush's "War on Terror" and the "Iraq War", in addition to secretly supporting Ariel Sharon and his radical Jewish government against the Arabs are both quite alarming and are quite striking. Therefore, we must denounce both of Bush's two wars, and his support for the Isreali Government, or else this will be another version of the Middle Eastern Crusades, which will not just happen in Europe and the Middle East between the Christains, Jews and Muslims, but will spreasd globally, and involve those who are not of those faith. In essence, if these "Crusades" that Bush is doing spread globally, it will cuase terrorist attacks similar or worse than 9/11 that will affect everybody, not just Jews, Christains and Muslims, and will cause global conflicts that may eventually become World War III or a nuclear holocaust as we have feared happening for many decades, and even today. We must not let the conflict between these two or three religions turnout to be a massive global conflict in which everyone loses out!!! Posted by: Neerav Trivedi on May 7, 2005 07:36 PMHere's another one, this time re Barf Bolton: As these poll results show, large numbers of people in our country are persons of conscience. What we must figure out how to do, and to do well, is to inform them about what is actually going on so that, informed, they will act and demand an end to the terrible things done in our name and with our tax dollars. http://www.commondreams.org/news2005/0505-14.htm Posted by: shylurker on May 7, 2005 10:10 PMWV, Your version of Who's on First is a trip! I can see those two in the Oval Office --- well, actually, I just turned that image off... it was too much! But, I cut and pasted your version and sent it into cyberspace. And hey, three times is a charm! I'm going to skip the garden this year... maybe just a few pots on the deck... we're doing 'kindergarten' --- for the summer, and the oldest may be spending her last summer with us. She was looking for a summer job last month, 'til she found out she's still too young. But next summer... they simply grow too fast. Time next year for a garden. Not now... You enjoy though! Posted by: Jo on May 7, 2005 10:16 PMAnd we're up against the corporate media and their virtual black out of anything meaningful. Do most of the people in this country realize what "rendering" means, and the reputation for torture among those countries to which our "prisoners" are "rendered"? Do most people know that Gonzales has so narrowly defined torture that Smirky & Co. can say with perfectly straight faces that we don't do it. If "torture" is equivalent to killing or causing organ failure, then slowly pulling fingernails out with pliers is not torture at all. No sirree! Moreover, "rendering" relieves our guys of having to perform any of the dirty deeds anyway. How do we educate our own citizens about this? Posted by: shylurker on May 7, 2005 10:19 PMJo, loved the Yao Ho poem. Judi G, was so sorry to hear of Col. David Hackworth's death. What a good man he was. Maybe somewhere,somehow he will return to help our world again. Thanks for all info on brown recluse spider. I've had some experience with those also and it wasn't pretty. Teresa, re id bill, I think it may very well carry the seeds of its own destruction. Sounds like it may be way too unwieldly to work in any practical fashion. Marta, thanks for the laughs. Those are our salvation. This morning Atlanta Journal/Constitution page A-3 covered the East Waynesville (NC) Baptist Church story re expelling the Democrats. Didn't cover it very seriously, though.
Jo, loved the Yao Ho poem. Judi G, was so sorry to hear of Col. David Hackworth's death. What a good man he was. Maybe somewhere,somehow he will return to help our world again. Thanks for all info on brown recluse spider. I've had some experience with those also and it wasn't pretty. Teresa, re id bill, I think it may very well carry the seeds of its own destruction. Sounds like it may be way too unwieldly to work in any practical fashion. Marta, thanks for the laughs. Those are our salvation. This morning Atlanta Journal/Constitution page A-3 covered the East Waynesville (NC) Baptist Church story re expelling the Democrats. Didn't cover it very seriously, though.
Yay! I've been advocating for some time now that we give the term "marriage" to the religious groups and let them do whatever they want (read 'holy' texts, have special food/drink, light the incense, sprinkle holy water, smash the stem-ware, fling rice around, etc.) to bless and celebrate the union of two adults--and give "civil unions" or "domestic partnerships" or whatever you want to call them to the government. After all, it took us a century and a half or more of struggle to separate women and children from the property laws that prevailed and that were brought here by the Europeans. What remains--under the title of "marriage"-- are still concerns basically about property matters between two individuals who want to be a domestic unit. Let the state retain its purview on property matters and the religious groups can do whatever they want that satisfies their individual deities. Since the issue here is civil rights, and we do want to make sure that everyone enjoys the same rights, then civil unions or domestic partnerships or whatever you want to call them would apply to two adults not otherwise involved in such a relationship. Anyhow, I'm happy to note that over at DU they are reaching agreement, too: Shylurker...... I suspect that anyone whose rational thinking processes are in good working order has seen that as the blindingly obvious solution for a long time. But rational thinking is hardly a forte of the fundies. They're not too good with vocabulary either. The creationist half of a Kansas science curriculum debate on C-span this am kept referring to all the "imminent" scientists on his side. I had an evil impulse to call and ask him to bring all those imminent scientists into it later on after they had become scientists. Fortunately, I was restrained by c-span's busy signal Posted by: Teg on May 8, 2005 02:55 AMShylurker got me thinking. Seems to me almost every supposedly intractable problem this country has could be solved with the application of a wee bit of common sense. I suggest the following, inter alia: 1) Immediately deport every illegal alien currently incarcerated in the US.....savings, several billion per year. 2) Completely ban any sale of weapons and weapon-related technology to anyone, friend or foe, by either governmental or private interests. Savings in future wars, blood and treasure - incalcuable. 3) Ban all political contributions by any entity except natural persons.....and limit that to $100 a head per year. 4) Toss out the tax code ; have a progressive tax with no deducions for anything 6) Ban all money from lobbyists for any reason.....let them try persuasion instead of bribes 7) Legalise all drugs.....prosecute any bad behavior under their influence only. 8) Get out of all foreign conflicts. (Note..the last time the American military was used in any fashion that could even remotely be called defensive was in WWII......and I'm not even totally sure about that one 9) Fund the INS, and make hiring of illegals a felony. Use our bloated military to patrol the borders until a rational immigration policy has leveled the playing field for citizens. (And legal immigrants on their way to becoming citizens Reinstate estate tax Nationalise health care Got a lot more........ Any more ideas, everybody? Oh! Separation of church and state would be good! Posted by: Teg on May 8, 2005 03:33 AMGreat list, Teg! I would suggest one addition: remove from all our lawbooks the definition of a corporation as a person. They are business entities, nothing more. Posted by: shylurker on May 8, 2005 03:42 AMI don't know why but when Junior criticizes FDR it really makes me mad. Yesterday he criticized the Yalta agreements saying FDR and Churchill gave away Eastern Europe to Stalin in 1945. Apparently the little upstart wasn't very good in history or he would have known that Eastern Europe was never ours to give. The Soviet army was already there and controlled the entire area. Did he think Roosevelt should have gone to war then against Stalin to kick them out? FDR made mistakes during his 12 years in office. He tried different things and if one thing didn't work, he tried something else. The Yalta Agreement didn't place a large number of people under Soviet control; it simply formalized what already existed. Maybe I'm the only one who feels this way but I hope Putin puts him in his place when they meet. GWB is getting way too mouthy. What does he hope to accomplish by criticizing a man who did more for this country that any before him? Posted by: Teresa on May 8, 2005 06:32 AMTeresa, The man is out of control. He's making no sense. Well, he never does, but now he seems to be increasingly irratic. He is being heavily impacted by transiting Uranus opposite his natal Mars. It's making a long station there, turning retrograde in June and not leaving the degree till August. So fasten your seat belt. I am going to try and watch the show from a detached perspective. I don't see him coming out of this a winner. Posted by: jm on May 8, 2005 08:17 AMBTW, The Jupiter transit in his 3rd is making him so mouthy. In August, when Uranus retrograde leaves the Mars, Jupiter will be exactly conjunct his natal Jupiter for the last time. When Uranus returns to his Mars, Saturn will be exactly conjunct his ascendant ready to cross all those 1st house planets. That should be interesting. Hang in there. Posted by: jm on May 8, 2005 08:23 AMI remember writing a paper on the Yalta agreement in college. It was the best thing to do at that time. There were some right wing revisionist historisns around at the time who were saying that Yalta was a mistake and a give away but they were put down by real historians who provided the true facts. And that is the difference between now and then. All the historians were interviewed and things like were discussed on tv and radio in the 1970's. It was easy to have a good mind when you had good news available to you.bjt Posted by: Betsy on May 8, 2005 08:48 AMGood Morning AW, If I were casting director in Hollywood, I would have picked this man to play the role of Satan! Long heart shaped face, black hair goatee, and mustache, 2 long thin strands making an inverted V. Wearing a brown suede zip jacket, which gave him a "Pan-like" look. Ha ha! Satan on FUX! What a way to start a Sunday morning. You've got a great imagination, PQ. Oh, and opted for the natural cure. There was interest in a coup against FDR, if you'll recall. Gen. Smedley Butler was involved. So were ultra-right-wing Wall Street guys such as Smirky's grandpas * and Walker. Google it up. It's very interesting. And scary. Posted by: shylurker on May 8, 2005 05:29 PMI know that I’ve lurked more than I’ve posted so am a stranger to most of you, that this isn’t the place to ask for personal help, and that this is WAY off-topic, but it is Mother’s Day and I’m hurting for my son, who will be 47 at the end of the month. I desperately need advice, direction, insight – astrological or otherwise – in how to handle his situation. We have to decide whether to continue helping him (we’ve paid rent, utilities, internet, food, car repairs, medical & dental care and gas for over a year) or whether to turn him loose, which most likely means the street. I want a family session with a therapist before we make a decision, but can only afford one visit – we’re retired on a fixed income and struggling financially. Our son is brilliant (Gemini Sun) but has zero common sense. He suffers from major depression, so bad that at times it renders him non-functional. We had to hospitalize him once. He’s supposedly taking Wellbutrin but who knows? Neptune opposition Mercury doesn’t always tell the truth. The question comes down to can’t or won’t – has he been brought so low by depression that he CAN’T bring himself to look for a job, or is he so lazy that he WON’T get out and beat the bushes for one. I generally lean towards CAN’T but a couple of months ago he had an opportunity to make really good money working as a free-lance writer for the IBM website, and blew it. He has a totally afflicted first-house Neptune and apparently is alcoholic (he’s admitted that he’s had a drinking problem in the past and our doctor subtly let me know that it was bad enough that he’d suffered some liver damage). I don’t know if he’s drinking now, don’t see how he could afford it since he has no income. But who knows where the food money went. He has a T-square of Moon/Uranus at 3 & 8 Leo in the 10th, Neptune at 2 Scorpio in the 1st and Mercury at 8 Taurus in the 7th. My big concern is the Saturn & Pluto transits this month. Saturn transits his MC at 23 Cancer at the same time that Pluto transits his Saturn at 23 Sag. Lots of quincunxes going on, both natally and transiting. My hope is that his natal Saturn-Pluto trine will at least mitigate the transits. BTW, Jupiter and Venus, which straddle the horizon (Venus 20 Aries, ascendant 21 Libra, Jupiter 22 Libra), have brought a take-the-easy-way-out attitude instead of benefit. The statistics are 5/23/1958, 4:05 pm CST, 32N47, 96W47.
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The message is ready to be sent with the following file or link attachments: Donna, check your mail. Posted by: Pat C on May 8, 2005 07:16 PMShylurker: and the story in some circles is that the JFK assassination WAS a coup (and Oswald was a patsy), performed by the CIA, of which GHW* was an agent (theory is no one gets to be CIA director without being CIA first; he was named director in mid-70s). Teresa: 60 Minutes tonight has an interview with Putin; my newspaper says he will comment that Bush is a fine one to speak of democracy, justice, free press, fair elections, etc etc etc when he was picked by the US Supreme Court in 2000. HAHA! You go, Vlad. Putin may or may not be a good leader (I don't read too much about him, myself), but how hilarious is it to hear * speaking in this way about all the things he's trying to destroy in our country? Posted by: Lori on May 8, 2005 08:06 PMThanks, JM, Lori and Betsy. Donna, blessings and white light to you and your family. Posted by: Teresa on May 8, 2005 11:09 PMShylurker, Whoa Bessie, Pat QofP --- Careful where you step... that's Freeper... and I'm not sure it's documented...? Posted by: Jo on May 8, 2005 11:32 PMhttp://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Opinion/Editorials/03OpOPN82050705.htm Between truth and lies, Bush's bull in America's path John Kenneth Galbraith wrote that modern conservatives were engaged in that hoariest of philosophical exercises -- the search for a moral justification for selfishness. Their apotheosis of unregulated markets and low taxes for the wealthy allows the rich to enrich themselves further while claiming that a rising tide raises all boats. Unfortunately, in our society today not everyone has a yacht, or even a life raft. That truth is inconvenient, so the radical right ignores it. A caller on a recent National Public Radio talk show questioned how the Republican Party could "lie" so much. Do party leaders in fact "lie"? Perhaps not. They don't have to -- in the strictest sense of the word. A professor emeritus of philosophy at Princeton, Harry G. Frankfurt, recently wrote an entrancing little book called, simply, "On Bull****" (without the asterisks). Its introductory sentence: "One of the most salient features of our culture is that there is so much bull****." Hardly anyone would argue, but few have thought as clearly as he has about the subject. He does so in the abstract. He treats no personalities -- or political parties. He argues that the liar and the BS-er both represent themselves falsely as telling the truth. The liar, though, must know the truth, and "is responding to truth, and he is to that extent respectful of it." On the other hand, the BS-er "may not deceive us, or even intend to deceive us, either about the facts or about what he takes the facts to be. What he does necessarily intend to do is to deceive us about his enterprise . . . the truth-values of his statements are of no central interest to him." Simply, a BS-er has so little respect for truth that he doesn't even attempt to find out what it is. His sole interest is in convincing you to do what he wants. Now that sounds to me like the Bush administration. Bush is pushing the idea (BS alert!) of an "ownership society" to "reform" Social Security. He ignores these facts. By 1998 one percent of our population owned 38 percent of the national wealth. In an era of GOP dominance, 1979-2001, the income of the top 5 percent increased by 81 percent, while that of the bottom 20 percent went up by just 3 percent. Since 2001 Bush's tax policy has worsened that inequality. The Republicans apparently understand "ownership society" to mean one in which the very few own everything. Bush stands by while his acolytes stir up the radical right with claims (BS alert!) that the Democrats in the Senate are blocking the people's will in holding up Bush's judicial appointees. They never mention that 250 out of Bush's 260 nominations sailed through. Nor is it obvious that his judicial choices represent the "people's will." More.... Posted by: Pat C on May 8, 2005 11:50 PMPat C., Here you go (lefthand side of page). http://coat.ncf.ca/our_magazine/links/53/53-index.html Posted by: shylurker on May 9, 2005 12:17 AMGood find shylurker! Good find. Posted by: Pat C on May 9, 2005 12:32 AM
The message is ready to be sent with the following file or link attachments: more on Hillary... http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/7773614/site/newsweek/ Posted by: wv on May 9, 2005 01:21 AMJo, Sorry, Pat PofQ, I read too quickly... thought you were affirming what the website said... doing too many things at what time :) Happy Mothers Day! Posted by: Jo on May 9, 2005 02:32 AMhttp://www.nytimes.com/2005/05/06/opinion/06krugman.html? A Serious Drug Problem There was a brief flurry of outrage when Congress passed the 2003 Medicare bill. The news media reported on the scandalous vote in the House of Representatives: Republican leaders violated parliamentary procedure, twisted arms and perhaps engaged in bribery to persuade skeptical lawmakers to change their votes in a session literally held in the dead of night. Later, the media reported on another scandal: it turned out that the administration had deceived Congress about the bill's likely cost. But the real scandal is what's in the legislation. It's an object lesson in how special interests hold America's health care system hostage. The new Medicare law subsidizes private health plans, which have repeatedly failed to deliver promised cost savings. It creates an unnecessary layer of middlemen by requiring that the drug benefit be administered by private insurers. The biggest giveaway is to Big Pharma: the law specifically prohibits Medicare from using its purchasing power to negotiate lower drug prices. ... Needless to say, apologists for the law insist that the prohibition on price negotiations had nothing to do with catering to special interests - that it was a matter of principle, of preserving incentives to innovate. How can we refute this defense? One way is to challenge claims that the pharmaceutical industry needs high prices to innovate. In her book "The Truth About the Drug Companies," Marcia Angell, the former editor in chief of The New England Journal of Medicine, shows convincingly that drug companies spend far more on marketing than they do on research - and that much of the marketing is designed to sell "me, too" drugs, which are no better than the cheaper drugs they replace. It should be possible to pay less for medicine, yet encourage more real innovation. ... If all this sounds like a story of a corrupt deal created by a corrupt system, it is. And it was a very expensive deal indeed. According to the Medicare trustees, the fiscal gap over the next 75 years created by the 2003 law - not the financing gap for Medicare as a whole, just the additional gap created by legislation passed 18 months ago - will be $8.7 trillion. That's about three times the amount President Bush proposes to save by cutting middle-class Social Security benefits. In fact, I have a suggestion for Mr. Bush. One way to prove that he's really sincere about addressing long-run fiscal problems, that his calls for benefit cuts aren't just part of an ideological agenda, would be to put Social Security aside for a while and fix his own Medicare program. Oh, never mind. Donna.....I feel for you ....I am a Gemini, although later than your son is, and my birthtime is 5 minutes after his, which is weird, and I have gone thru depression and loss which started right at 47, the difference being I don't drink. It sounds to me as if he needs to get into AA ....and if a transit become difficult enough, it can spur a need to do so. My ex has Neptune conj. his ascendant....it is a creative aspect but also quite difficult to get a grasp on...during that period of time from 47 to 50 I lost everything I owned including my career, my home, etc.. I was a week away from being a homeless person with 3 dogs. I didn't work for 2.5 years and really couldn't have, but I did start a huge spiritual journey...the only thing I worry about for your son is the drinking....do everything that is humanly possible to get him dry. However, what I was taught at Alanon was that sometimes people have to hit the bottom before getting help. It is painful for others to watch. If you can, find some help from the associations which work with AA....allow help to come in any way which is appropriate to you....good luck, Donna, and lots of light and love.... Posted by: judi gemini on May 9, 2005 04:24 AMGood news from John Conyers, who is now a loyal devotee of the blogosphere. "You Are Invited to Participate in My First Ever Web Chat -- Tuesday, May 10, 3 PM ET
Tuesday afternooon’s on-line chat will be a revolutionary event where two of the leading Democrats in the House pool their resources and expertise to interact with you to respond to your concerns and questions. Among the topics that I expect will come up include the Ohio presidential election and election reform, the Jeff Gannon scandal, the recent disclosure that Bush agreed to go to war in the summer of 2002 before they even bothered asking for authority, the Schiavo case and the Republican assault on the judiciary, Bush’s attempted rip off of the Social Security System, the various additional abuses and misuses of power by the GOP Majority, the upcoming legislative agenda, and the state of the Democratic Party. Look forward to hearing from you Tuesday afternoon." teresa, well fire up the oven and have a batch ready. guido took my MDI Air Car (http://www.theaircar.com/) and headed for the mid west. said something about 'she's my type of woman' after he saw you on tv. i can no longer take responsibility for his vulgarity. now, he steals my car! he does love chocolate chip cookies and will probably have a steak or two at that famous reseaurant near the stock yards. wv, your piece was brilliant. i read it and laughed so hard. i sent a post but obviously it was not done properly on my part. this is really funny stuff. people whould spread it around the internet. heading toward my galactic center, Adn now, there are reports that Jack Abramoff had ties with President Bush! Go figure!!! Posted by: Neerav Trivedi on May 9, 2005 02:30 PMCOMMENTARY-670 WORDS EDITOR'S NOTE: U.S. officials are telling falsehoods about Iran and its nuclear program, most recently on PBS's NewsHour program, writes PNS contributor William O. Beeman, professor of anthropology and director of Middle East Studies at Brown University. Beeman is currently visiting professor of cultural and social anthropology at Stanford University. His forthcoming book is "The 'Great Satan' vs. the 'Mad Mullahs': How the United States and Iran Demonize Each Other." BY WILLIAM O. BEEMAN, PACIFIC NEWS SERVICE SAN FRANCISCO--The frustration of the Bush administration with Iran regarding its nuclear program is obviously boiling over when an administration official issues an outright lie about Iran in a public venue, as Undersecretary of State for Political Affairs Nicholas Burns did on television on May 5. Burns made the following statement on PBS's NewsHour program to interviewer Margaret Warner. WARNER: But as you know, I mean, Iran says that under the (Nuclear Non- Proliferation) treaty, it has an inalienable right to continue pursuing this technology for civilian purposes. BURNS: But the agreement that Iran entered into November of last year in Paris with Britain, France and Germany, is that it will not just suspend its nuclear fuel cycle activities. It will actually lead to cessation and dismantling. That means that Iran would not be able to have the possibility to enrich or produce fissile material which, as you know, is the essential ingredient in the capacity to build a nuclear device. Burns' statement is untrue. The Nov. 15 treaty, a public document, does not stipulate any agreement on Iran's part to dismantle any part of its peaceful nuclear development program. Moreover, Iran's cessation of enrichment activity was specified as voluntary in the treaty. Burns' remark is designed to show that Iran is in violation of a treaty subsequent to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), thus perpetuating the Bush administration portrait of Iran as an outlaw nation and "treaty violator." What Burns failed to point out is that Iran also subscribed to the following unambiguous statement in the November treaty: "Iran reaffirms that, in accordance with Article II of the NPT, it does not and will not seek to acquire nuclear weapons. It commits itself to full cooperation and transparency with the IAEA. Iran will continue implanting voluntarily the Additional Protocol [for enhanced inspections] pending ratification." Iranian officials have dug in their heels on this issue because they correctly feel that they have been unfairly singled out for attack. They know full well that Israel, India, Pakistan and North Korea are not signatories to the NPT; that they have nuclear weapons; and that the United States is doing nothing to target them. They also know that Brazil has a developing nuclear program, and that Taiwan supplies nuclear technology support to all and sundry, and these nations are likewise not the targets of American rhetoric. Iran is deeply proud of its technological advances. It is now manufacturing commercial passenger aircraft for export, and has the largest automobile manufacturing plant in the Middle East. It is diversifying its oil economy and has growing non-oil export trade. Nuclear energy technology is both a demonstration of its advancing skills in high-level engineering and a practical economic measure to free petroleum and natural gas for export to China, India and other nearby Asian markets. Iran's clerical leaders are not loved by its youthful population, but their support for nuclear energy development is almost universally supported by the populace. Since there has been no diplomatic relations between Washington and Tehran for nearly 30 years, the only way for either nation to get the attention of the other is through invective and excessive rhetoric. The Bush administration has decided that the nuclear issue is the one that will play best with the American public, and on the world scene, and so it seems ready to tolerate, and perhaps even orchestrate, stunts like the Burns prevarication. However, in the long run the United States is losing the battle. European powers are not willing to go along with U.S. strong-arm tactics, and even if the United States is able to haul Iran in to the United Nations to face sanctions, it is likely that China, Russia and France will veto the measure, causing embarrassment in Washington. Far better for Washington would be to do what Britain, France and Germany have been urging the Bush administration to do, and actually press to open direct talks with Tehran. This is the honest, the correct and the effective way to deal with the very proud nation of Iran. (05062005) ***END*** (C) COPYRIGHT PNS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED For subscription information or to reprint PNS articles, please go to http://news.pacificnews.org/news/view_custom.html?custom_page_id=48, or contact bhouston@pacificnews.org. ************************************************ To unsubscibe, click [here]. Hi Donna, I'm so sorry to hear about your son ... while I can't comment on the astrology (I'm a total neophyte, but trying to learn), I agree with Judi Gem that sometimes people need to get to the bottom before they can raise themselves up again. As long as you and your husband are picking up the pieces, he doesn't need to. It's called being a facilitator. I know, we call it helping. But in the end, if he doesn't have to get serious about his life and on top of it if he's drinking and you're paying all the bills .... the law of inertia says he can continue doing what he's doing because there's no penalty for him. He needs to learn to fix his own problems. He can't do that if you fix them for him. Sorry, I learned this first hand and I'm just giving you the benefit of my own experience. Blessings to you and your family. You will need to develop a lot of patience. As I told my girls when they were growing up and they mucked it up and were in trouble ... and were either punished or confronted with unpleasant consequences for what they had done ... I'd say ... who did this to you? (I'd wait a while and when they didn't answer I'd ask again until they would say in a tiny little voice ... me.) Then I'd make them say it louder and louder until they OWNED it, and the consequences of their actions. Otherwise they'd blame me, the school, a teacher ... it was never themselves. When they OWNED it they (eventually) stopped BREAKING it. I mean, it's just psychology in their case, boy did they feel stupid when they had to admit that they were the masters of their own disasters! Obviously your son is in a much more difficult place, and therefore, so are you. So it's not so easy. Posted by: Marta on May 9, 2005 03:55 PMMike, Guido was in pretty rough shape when he arrived here in your car early this morning. He was clutching a bottle of scotch and a fistful of Kentucky Derby betting tickets and mumbling "he placed 7th." Anyway, I got him a room at the Queen City Motel where hopefully he'll sleep it off. I'll take his cookies to him this afternoon. Posted by: Teresa on May 9, 2005 03:58 PMPowerful stuff. Heartbreaking that Smirky & Co. provided the subject matter. http://www.nytimes.com/2005/05/08/international/americas/08botero.html?hp&oref=login Posted by: shylurker on May 9, 2005 04:35 PM
http://news.independent.co.uk/low_res/story.jsp?story=636841&host=3&dir=75 Your tax dollars at work... Posted by: wv on May 9, 2005 05:01 PM
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Must-Flee TV: The GOP On PBS The Perfect Economic Storm Who's winning in Iraq? Ohhh Shylurker, such heartache... I am so ashamed to be an American sometimes... Watched 'Bound for Glory' last night (well, I watch it in pieces... I cry too much to take it all in in one sittting --- last night was third night to watch a segment) --- those white men and their clubs and guns... have they always been with us? Posted by: Jo on May 9, 2005 06:05 PMDonna - Your son has recently had Saturn square his Venus, Jupiter and Ascendant, as well as on his MC. This has been the winter-long Saturn station that is only just letting up later this month for him. This has clearly intensified his depression. Saturn on the MC ideally may actually bring him a job and force some reality (Saturn) on his MC. Later this year and early next it will be 3 times over his Uranus and square Mercury. This may also weigh on him but the choice is between facing responsibility and perhaps doing jobs he isn't too fond of and being depressed. That is the choice Saturn gives you. Responsibility and budensome jobs versus depression. Let him know he has the choice. Has he tried other meds besides welbutrin? Has he tried acupuncture or homeopathy for the depression? Posted by: Nancy on May 9, 2005 06:55 PMALCOHOROSCOPES ARIES : Drinking style TAURUS Drinking style GEMINI Drinking style CANCER Drinking style LEO Drinking style VIRGO Drinking style LIBRA Drinking style SCORPIO Drinking style SAGITTARIUS Drinking style CAPRICORN Drinking style AQUARIUS Drinking style PISCES Drinking style Lori, funny! I'm a pisces (sun, moon & venus) ... but too busy right now to stay in bed for days ... maybe in another life! Now that pitcher of margaritas on the other hand could be just the thing though ... you know? :) Posted by: Marta on May 9, 2005 08:38 PMThis came in my hotmail today. You asked us to keep you posted and that's just what we are doing. The Huffington Post is now live. Visit HuffingtonPost.com now and then come back every day -- several times a day -- to see the latest news 24/7 and our group blog. The Huffington Post is serving up-to-the-minute breaking news and blog posts from hundreds of the most interesting figures in politics, entertainment, business, the arts, and the media. In addition, Harry Shearer will be moderating a section on the media called "Eat the Press" -- where, besides documenting and discussing the absurdities within our news cycle, he will regularly be posting raw satellite feed of our nation's politicians and broadcasters in their most unguarded moments. Already, John Cusack, Ellen DeGeneres, Russell Simmons, Mike Nichols, David Mamet, Michael Isikoff, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Brad Hall, David Corn, and Marshall Herkovitz have posted their unique takes on issues as diverse as gay marriage, the war in Iraq, and what "SpamAlot" and political leaders have in common. The Huffington Post is also your source for breaking news. Today, the Post offers an exclusive pre-publication look at the explosive new book, "Secrets of the Kingdom," by best-selling author Gerald Posner, which reveals the unknown story of how Saudi Arabia’s oil fields are rigged to turn into a radioactive nuclear wasteland in the event of an invasion or internal revolution. So be sure and visit HuffingtonPost.com, and we'll keep e-mailing you updates on what is new and notable on the site -- scoops, great posts, and more. And then there is this...One Time only. Subject : Online Chat With Reps. Conyers and Slaughter I am thrilled to invite you to participate in an online conversation with two of our great Democratic leaders in the House: Representative John Conyers of Michigan and Representative Louise Slaughter of New York. My greatest motivation in coming on as Executive Director here at the DCCC was that I would get to work on behalf of a Democratic caucus that fights tirelessly in defense of the American people and our cherished values. No Democratic Members personify this better than the two who have volunteered to chat with you. They'll be here at the DCCC, answering whatever important questions you submit. If you're not feeling inquisitive, log on anyway and see what they have to say - I'm sure they won't disappoint. It's an honor for us to host them, and I hope you'll join us on Tuesday. Well. THAT doesn't look so good, after a post of support and information for Donna. Donna, I apologize if I hit a sore spot there. It's true what the others have said about the need to hit bottom and how helping someone in such a situation as your son with practical matters ultimately doesn't help at all. I had to file for divorce and leave the state for 4-5 mos. before my husband straightened up. Fortunately, he was my husband and not my son. This must be absolutely heartbreaking for you. It's really tough; very painful, but you also may feel some relief if you can let go and let him make it on his own. You have my sympathy! I apologize if the horoscopes post seems cold-hearted. I truly was not coming from such a place, but did find it amusing and even accurate in terms of sun-sign stereotypes. (And look at Guido. I mean...) I'm sincerely sorry, Donna, if I hit a nerve, which to me seems likely. Posted by: Lori on May 9, 2005 09:43 PMMarta, glad you enjoyed it and said so! (Lessens a little my embarrassment and that sheepish feeling...) Posted by: Lori on May 9, 2005 09:47 PMLori ... you're welcome my dear ... :) Posted by: Marta on May 9, 2005 10:43 PMLori, I really enjoyed your post, too. It was cute. There are many ways to look at something -- there's the lighthearted, joking way which can help get through many situation, and then there'a more serious, concentrated, problem-solving approach. If the 2 can be combined, more's the better. Sometimes, however they cannot, and we have to get down to the root of problem solving. However, a little levity can work wonders at times. It is wonderful of you, though, to be so sensitive to Donna and so respectful of her feelings. I'm a Pisces, too (sun, jupiter, venus, mars, NN) but on the Aquarius cusp. I recognized myself in both descriptions. Posted by: Sharon on May 10, 2005 12:39 AMHeads up! Nice thought we could all use (May 9th entry): Posted by: shylurker on May 10, 2005 01:57 AMTeresa, I don't know how to tell you this, but Guido has checked in at the Raphael using one of your credit cards and he's pretty much emptied the "mini-bar" fridge. I'll be glad to cover his current expenses but you should give them a call. Well, I've been imagining "Whirled Peas" but nothing much seems to be changing. How long does this "mindfulness" take. I would love to be Putin's confidante right now. I bet that person is getting an ear-full. Bush is dumber than ever and disarticulate! Saw him speaking to a table of European leaders last night; incoherrent and gesturing like an idiot. They all must think we're on crack here or they know that the thing was stolen (hope they do!). It's scandal time! Guido says we've got some juicy stuff coming up in the next 60 days, stuff that will take hold. He keeps saying, "remember, I was right about the Red Sox right after Game 3." Independent of the big scandal, Guido predicts that there will be some real shaking on the election fraud front. mike ***THIS JUST IN FROM THE CENTRAL OFFICE*** Celestial Plains, CO (May 9, 2005) AP. Guido Rudyar, Communications Officer for AstroWorld (AW) announced today a new AW policy for all users. Starting today, AWers are required to check the service periodically until 2:00AM EDT. Rudyar said, "There is a suprising drop off in posting activity after 11:00PM EDT which is troubling to some of our users." He said that AW's Chief Exective Officer and Captain, Sally Cheyne McDonald, was adamant about the policy. "Sleep is no excuse," said McDomand. "Siimply work up a lucid dream, switch on the ability to move your body, and log in, we'll be glad to see you." McDonald was unavailable for further comment as she was headed for an afternoon nap to accomodate her new policy. AstroWorld is the premier blog for political astrology, spiritual enlightenment, and subtle humor. It reaches over 500,000 users in 115 different countries. It was awarded the coveted UN Prize for Galactic Consciousness in 2004. I have noticed a drop off after 11:00 and quite agree that "sleep" does not excuse sloth of sharing. However, I did say a couple of weeks ago that as Saturn inched his sluggish body toward the US Mercury we could find ourselves in a collective depression, or at the least lack of creative spirit, perhaps even becoming downright dullards. I for one, with Saturn moving toward my Jupiter in the 10th house, find myself buried under work and looking for the slightest smallest ray of light at the end of the tunnel. I've always believed that we (Humanity) would destroy ourselves by drowning in a sea of paperwork. Saturn's idea of "toying" with us is to let us see the train coming ever so slowly to the musical refrain of "yo o heave ho, uhhh" and knowing we can't get away from being run down because we just cannot move. Give me until tomorrow and I am writing a perfect article about Saturn or his effect (he thinks he is God. The Republicans, Baptists, Catholics, and James Dobson's friends think so too) on the Church, and Pluto's stealth attack on their carefully crafted balony. I will say one nice thing about Saturn, he is absolutely a jealous God and loves to show upsurpers their place and remind people (administration and fat cats) that humility is a quality. Oh dear, I find that "sleep" is overtaking me, ah I must offer up my own slothful excuse and slip off to bed. Mike, you crack me up!
WV, you don't look a DAY over 49! I suspect Guido partakes of energizing substances, along with all that liquor. (Else HOW could one stay awake all the time like that??) Mike, have you checked Guido's sock drawer? Posted by: Lori on May 10, 2005 01:56 PMOMG! How wonderful!.....76. Posted by: jm on May 10, 2005 02:10 PMIn the woods here, we're definitely 'out of the loop' --- don't have cable (hey, I can live without that!) and have to rely on dial-up... and that wasn't a real problem 'til my hubby discovered the internet (about a year ago), but now I pretty much have to give up accessing AW in the evening... when he's online. USED TO BE, all the really good stuff happened after those of us on the East Coast dropped off to sleep anyway. :) Some of those lurking need to speak up after hours Mike! I don't know why they don't respond to Guido... he's funnier than Johnny Carson was in the old days! (Jupiter must be prominent in your chart... you have a mar-vo-lus (as Billy Crystal would say) sense of humor... we at AW do certainly appreciate it. As for your predictive abilities, I think they're great. So, keep the lines flowing... folks may not be talking, but they're listening to you... :) WV, your dogs have it made... :) you keep us perking here at AW during the day with all the great links you provide --- your philosophy and schedule obviously are working! West Virginia must be good for longevity... Cap'n Sally, we await your words on Saturn. Namaste Posted by: Jo on May 10, 2005 02:36 PMMike, too funny for words ... Guido is on a roll! Posted by: Marta on May 10, 2005 04:46 PMMike, I hurried down to stop Guido from doing too much damage to me at the Raphael. How did he manage to find the most expensive hotel in KC? By the time I got there, he was holding audience with a room full of people, including the manager of the hotel. He liked Guido so much that he forgave the bill. The open bar may have helped a bit there. Anyway, he's checking out today and said something about tracking down Ouida May so you might want to warn shylurker. Posted by: Teresa on May 10, 2005 06:27 PMI have actually seen so many things to post and I have been too...depressed? too lazy? too SATURN on my JUPITER? My Leo daughter had a massive meltdown yesterday because of her bosshole (thanks for that one, VCZ)strangling her with overorganized blaming stuff....I knew it was coming, and knew it needed to happen, but boy.....I just keep telling her she may end up working harder, but she will be happier to define what she will and won't put up with....she has so many difficult transits, but all transits bring needed change, which is how I now want to look at them. WV....I'm sure you don't look at day over 51....being all that capricorn energy. Well....here is an interesting article on Star Wars (Revenge of the Sith) and how the Dark side of the Force and the new movie align with our post 9/11 society. No one actually comes out and says that this administration IS the dark side of the force, but enjoy anyway....http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/c/a/2005/05/08/ING30CK6O81.DTL Is Guido Rudyar a relative of Dane Rudyar, Mike? I must say, he is in good company..... Posted by: judi gemini on May 10, 2005 07:10 PMPat QP....I didn't know you were having trouble with sending me stuff....please try again! you are in my address book, and the ISP has done lots of work over the last 2 months which resulted in much bounced mail....I complained....hopefully it isn't still happening. Sally....that Saturn thing - we both have Jupiter in the same place....I was born with the conj. to my sun , so I don't experience the slowing effects as much as others do. But it is about concentrating focus. Andre Agassi has sun/sat conj.....and he always wins when he has strong aspects from his mars to the conj....he really concentrates then, and his biggest wins are during those saturn times. Other times he flubbs around like an embarrasment or a person who lost their 'anchor'...hahahahah Posted by: judi gemini on May 10, 2005 07:52 PMre: Mike's May 10th post at 3:23, read this--looks like we've finally found out where Guido gets his info....BOOKIES!!!! http://www.huffingtonpost.com/theblog/archive/2005/05/biggest-story-of-our-live.html Please let this start the tidal wave in motion, culminating with Smirky-et-al-CO. dragged out of the WH in leg irons....... Posted by: Garry on May 10, 2005 08:00 PMI want to thank everyone who answered my cry for help about my son. My husband and I have an appointment to see an addiction therapist Thursday morning. I know that all of you are right, I have to stop enabling and let him make it or not make it on his own, but I'm going to need help - I can't do it by myself. My Libra Mars has been so steadfast in its refusal to confront that even when I've known he was lying I've not confronted him on it. Anyway, once again, thanks so much for your caring. And Lori, I took no offense at your post on astro alcohol. In fact, I enjoyed it. If we can't laugh we don't have much chance. Posted by: Donna on May 10, 2005 09:11 PMDonna...being a Libra isn't so easy! It is hard to say anything but yes when you are a Libra! good luck and with the right tools you and your husband will have a much more informed way of dealing with your son.... Posted by: judi gem on May 10, 2005 10:28 PMGarry....what is cool about Jim Lampley's report on the bookies is that bookies don't CARE who wins idealogically....so in a way, they aren't biased (money itself has no political affiliations is what I mean)...Zogby said it was 2 to 1 for Kerry, now it turns out that was the line on Kerry winning for the bookies. What next? So far none of it is impeachable....but it really should start people rethinking blaming Kerry for running a bad campaign Posted by: judi gem on May 10, 2005 10:44 PMthe 'blue dress' wasn't 'impeachable' --- but 'we' went there... * could have been impeached for a different charge every day since he was born, and we still would not have exhausted the charges. Namaste Posted by: Jo on May 10, 2005 11:40 PM... lovely ... By David Podvin It has long been apparent that the goal of Senate Democrats is not to defeat their opponents but to deceive their supporters. Democratic senators are functionaries of the Fortune 500, and their assigned task is to serve as accomplices while the Republicans rape America. The intramural squabbles between the major parties involve much contrived drama, but are ultimately resolved in favor of the GOP. Politics in this country is basically professional wrestling, albeit without the nuance. Washington’s current simulated death struggle involves the legislative “nuclear option”. The issue is whether Republicans will change the Senate rules so that George W. Bush can have all of his extremist judicial nominees confirmed, or whether things will stay as they are, in which case Bush must settle for having ninety-six percent of his extremist judicial nominees confirmed. Senate Democrats claim that the nuclear option is unacceptable because if it is implemented, the Republicans will get to stock the courts with fascists. Of course, if it is not implemented the Republicans will still get to stock the courts with fascists, and that is the relevant point. The GOP is sincere about using any means necessary to achieve total dominance of the judiciary. The performance art comes from the Democrats, who are pretending as though they care whether the federal bench is infested with Antonin Scalia clones. There is overwhelming evidence that they couldn’t care less. Senate Democrats have already activated the “betrayal option” by allowing almost two hundred Bush-appointed racist, misogynistic, and homophobic corporate whores onto the federal bench. While being in the minority imposes certain limitations, the Democrats have previously demonstrated an eagerness to capitulate from a position of strength, as when they controlled the Senate and allowed Clarence Thomas to be confirmed. Their leader has already proclaimed Scalia qualified to be Chief Justice, a preemptive surrender that was in no way dictated by minority status. ... more http://makethemaccountable.com/podvin/more/050510_NuclearOption.htm Posted by: Marta on May 10, 2005 11:48 PMDonna, glad you're biting the bullet and empowering your son to do his part. There are no easy outs on this type of situation for anyone involved. Say a prayer and give it up to God, the universe or whatever and hope for the best. You've done your job as a parent and now it's your son's turn to step up to the plate. It may take awhile, but baby steps can take your son all the way up the mountain if he'll only try. Breathe ...... Light and love to you and your family. Posted by: Marta on May 10, 2005 11:55 PMJo....I mean you can't impeach someone for not following the polls or the bookie line...even when we know the polls and the bookies were right and * election was fixed. the biggest thing about the blue dress and monica was the media flogging .... all of which was done because the word went out from certain sources (and you know who I mean) to get Shorty....and you know who I mean....and they GOT Shorty in short order. If those same media moguls and high level sources went after * ,he would be GOT also. But not now....no matter what....not only do we not seem to have 'god on our side'( as the right love to crow about HAVING god on their side)...we don't have the bucks, the clout, and the media bullhorn. But stupid is as stupid does.....it can't be long now before that cliche takes over. Posted by: judi gemini on May 11, 2005 12:16 AMMarta, do you think that if enough people start to dis the dems that they will be embarrassed enough to change? Or is the corporate trough the drowning pool for dems? Our side needs a break soon, and I am just not sure if it is going to happen at all. As Jo said, there are impeachable offenses every day from * and it just ain't happenin' and I don't think we can blame dems for that. I am sure we can blame dems for lots....but this onslaught (everybody please pick up a copy of Mother Jones) is huge and ongoing from the right wing. I feel as if I am the little boy in Holland with his finger in the dike. I have just picked up my 35 year old copy of Journey to Ixtlan (Carlos Castenada) and I am glad to be rereading it....especially his chapter on death. The people running this country have no idea, as Don Juan points out, that Death is off to our left, about an arms length away, and nothing we do in life is as important as that tap on the shoulder when it is our time to go. They think they are invincible and immortal and to throw in a cartoon character, are all Schwarzeneggers. And so they destroy people and think they are gods. I wonder what they will feel when their own tap comes? Unfortunately for them, I don't give a ratsass what they are going to feel....but I certainly hope it involves a great deal of pain. Posted by: judi gemini on May 11, 2005 12:32 AMTo back up what I was ranting about, I happen to find this at huffington post, right under the funny stuff from Larry Gelbart on Bullmedia and Bill Mahr on bio-deisels. 05.10.2005Rob Reiner Just yesterday, I was in the midst of a rant about the abysmal state of education funding in this country when a friend rejoined, “We get the government we deserve.” I have been fighting this toxic mixture of superiority and cynicism since I became involved in the child advocacy movement almost 11 years ago. The truth is, when Americans are treated with respect and receive accurate information, they make wonderfully wise decisions. The system breaks down, however, when the press fails to provide such information, as they do today. The so-called fourth estate is now little more than the public relations arm of a government propaganda machine in which all three branches are controlled by the same political party. Who is watching the store? In some ways, the mass media are all of our surrogates for the truth – they are our eyes and ears. In days gone by, they were just that. To take but one example, the Washington Post famously risked their entire existence when they pursued a story about a suspicious break-in long after everyone else believed the story was dead. Would they make the same tough decisions today? Would any media outlet? Certainly not if there was a government-issued Video News Release handy. Americans now face a choice between a news channel and cabal of radio hosts that are an arm of the Republican Party, or a lethargic sheep-like mainstream press that would rather discuss a woman who had cold feet the night before her wedding than the continuing chaos in Iraq, where the number of car bombs detonated was up 50% in April from March. I could go on, but there is no better proof than the fact that about 3 in every 4 [pdf] people who supported President Bush believed that Saddam Hussein was involved in 9/11 and that we actually found weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. Massive misinformation is not limited to the Iraq war, of course. Take, for example, the Tom Delay ethics scandal. Over and over we hear that nothing can be done because Republicans control Congress, and the Democrats have no investigative power. The way I remember it, investigation was also the press’ job. Whether in life or politics, it is impossible to make informed decisions when you are not properly informed. The mainstream media has abdicated its responsibility to the American people, and we all suffer for it. The press must be held accountable before it is too late. In a separate thought, on Friday we lost one of the true champions for social justice in this country, Miguel Contreras. He was a friend and I will truly miss him. Posted at 12:07 AM | Author Bio | permalink Hey Judi Gem ... don't know what the answer is as far as the dems ... don't believe in any of them anymore... they're all sellouts. I really don't know how to combat them on a physical plane, it's just on a mental and spiritual plane that I feel empowered. And maybe that's the answer because as long as they can't influence our minds or have us grovel either mentally or spiritually, maybe that's our baby steps until we can affect change. I'll tell you an interesting story that may or may not "tie-in" with this nebulous idea I'm having, but years ago I had a stalker. He assiduously stalked me and my two young daughters (I was a single parent for 16 years) and somehow this guy tapped into us. It drove me absolutely nuts. We never could catch him. The cops all knew me they'd been over to my house so many times ... I'd run into them in the supermarket and they'd say , "hey, you look familiar ....????" "Oh, yeah, you're the woman who has the stalker!" Can you imagine? Anyway, this went on for years (about 3) until finally my nerves were shot and I was fed up. Finally, after nothing had worked ... not stakeouts, not time, nothing! So I asked the I Ching what to do and the answer came back ... "by your mind do you command" ... or something like that (don't remember the hexagram, sorry). Anyhoo, long story short I changed my mind. I got really pissed. I called the police and told them who I suspected it was. I put a stop to it primarily because I threw away my feelings of victimization and more importantly my feelings of being tied to this person. I cut the link. It was very weird. He never bothered me again ... Don't know if this makes any sense ... but I don't think money, organizing, tactics, etc. are the only way to achieve change in this environment. People will find their way when they are ready. Just like I put a stop to this guy when I was ready. What I find empowering right now is to be able to speak truth. To look people in the eye and say things that they probably think are absolutely outrageous such as "we don't have elections anymore"! In the end that makes me feel empowered. To know it, feel it and then say it. That's why I don't get as upset anymore. I don't feel as responsible I guess. Heck, I didn't make the mess. Anyway, I'm drifting ... Don't worry, the pendulum will swing and cut these buzzards down. Read Edgar Allan Poe ... The Pit & the Pendulum ... that'll cheer you up! Posted by: Marta on May 11, 2005 01:40 AMps ... love Castaneda! Posted by: Marta on May 11, 2005 01:41 AMJudi, Journey to Ixtlan is one of my favorite books of all time. I especially remember the death on the left side chapter. Thanks for the reminder. I think I'll reread it myself. Posted by: jm on May 11, 2005 01:42 AMPhilosophical question: If a Bush commits a crime and no one hears about it, has a crime really been committed? Posted by: Pat C on May 11, 2005 02:25 AMDonna, glad you didn't take offense/feel poked in a sensitive spot. I very much wish you well in this work and I'm glad you'll have the assistance of the addiction counselor! It will be great if things get turned around without a big revolution. But if not, sooner or later a revolution seems likely. I recently saw Dr. Zhivago for the first time in my life. And just last weekend, Fiddler on the Roof was on PBS. Though I asst stage managed Fiddler in college, I didn't realize Perchik was a Bolshevist. This weekend I got it. My point is, historically, people do see what's happening, or at least they see how their own lives could be improved if only the gov't were doing a good job. When things get bad enough, big things happen in response. That's (at least in part) how Hitler came to power, and that's how Russia became the USSR. Seems the Bolsheviks went overboard in terms of control and human=worker=automaton thing, definitely. But always, always, always in life, something's got to give sometime. Pat C., I don't know, but I loved the question! what clever wit! Posted by: Lori on May 11, 2005 03:00 AMJeanie, what part of the world? wow, talk about sleep being a boring topic...brings 'em out of the woodwork on this site. jeanie, what part of the world (a continent will do) are we talking about (china? england?) wv, see you as i walk the dogs before retiring. i'm impressed. the 'spirit of '76, you and byrd) lori, i did check the sock drawer. found a gravity bong and a bottle of some johnny cash specials (from his early days). jo, well, listening will do. never thought of that marta, guido is the "king of comedy" or at least he thinks he's that robert dinero character from the movie of the same name. yes, judi, he is related to dane rudyar, but by marriage. he just adopted the name so when he's on either coast he'll get plenty of invitations. it's undle dane this, uncle dane that. he's without shame. teresa, you may think he's gone but keep an eye out for the air car. he has a habit of lurking around the restaurant district. garry, i saw that earlier. what a great column. right on target. vegas takes money more seriously than the fed. i hope a group of the smart guys go to sen. reid (who i like a great deal) and lay it out for him. this is THE ISSUE of our lifetimes: that which none is greater than. btw, i'm positive that the picture above the lampley column is larry merchant, lampley's broadcasting partner on hbo boxing (they were a great pair). lampley and merchant are the only two boxing commentators who have an extended track record of TELLING THE TRUTH, quit a feat in boxing over time. guido is ready for a nap he tells me by cell phone (mine, he stole it) but he is headed west to see his celestial girl friend quida may! cheers Posted by: mike on May 11, 2005 03:19 AMGuess you all have already heard that the "kick out the Democrats" preacher in North Carolina has resigned. There is a diary about it on Kos. http://www.daily kos Thanks to an AW poster (can't remember who) I bought the May 2005 Harper's magazine and it is outstanding! Besides the two lead articles on "The Christian Right's War on America" there is an article on the Religion of Economics by Gordon Bigelow. I've never understood the "science" of economics, but didn't know whether that was because of an aversion for bean counting or because a lot of it sounds like a hoax. Thanks to Bigelow's article I now understand economics--not the uses of it, but the theory(s) underlying it. And I now know why it's classic form (which was all I knew about) repelled me. "The Religion of Economics" led me to look up England's Poor Laws of the 1830s. At the time they went into effect Uranus was in Pisces and Neptune was in Aquarius. Somebody doublecheck, but I think that was the last time that transit occurred. The Poor Laws were essentially (1) the privitization of public welfare (the guy running the poor house also sold them the supplies) and (2) law enforcement of the idea that an indigent who was elderly, disabled, or orphaned was poor because of his own moral deficiency and required harsh treatment. These laws lead to many deaths in the British Isles including the one and a half million deaths in the Irish Potato Famine later (and after Uranus had traveled into Aires.) Forgive the long post. I'll end by saying the Gordon Bigelow article "The Religion of Economics" is one of the most important I've ever read. Oops! That link, of course, should be
Behold Uranus on Harry Reid's Sun Mars square: http://www.dailykos.com/story/2005/5/10/15536/2555 statement by Reid: Two weeks ago, Bill Frist and I exchanged proposals in an attempt to avert a vote on the nuclear option. One proposal allowed for up or down votes on all but four judges - which many of us on both sides of the aisle considered to be the goal of this hyped battle over judicial nominations. It also took the "nuclear option" off the table, which even Ken Starr said yesterday was damaging to the Senate as an institution and "amounts to an assault on the judicial branch of government." This compromise would break the gridlock over these seven judges, and allow us to get back to doing the people's business. Senator Frist's proposal does nothing to end the judicial impasse, as it would wipe away the very checks and balances that have prevented an abuse of power for more than 200 years. That result is unacceptable. I still consider this confrontation entirely unnecessary and irresponsible. The White House manufactured this crisis. Since Bush took office, the Senate confirmed 208 of his judicial nominations and turned back only 10, a 95% confirmation rate. Instead of accepting that success and avoiding further divisiveness and partisanship in Washington, the President chose to pick fights instead of judges by resubmitting the names of the rejected nominees. This fight is not about seven radical nominees; it's about clearing the way for a Supreme Court nominee who only needs 51 votes, instead of 60 votes. They want a Clarence Thomas, not a Sandra Day O'Connor or Anthony Kennedy or David Souter. George Bush wants to turn the Senate into a second House of Representatives, a rubberstamp for his right wing agenda and radical judges. That's not how America works. I believe there are two options for avoiding the nuclear showdown, which so many of us believe is bad for the Senate, and bad for America. But I want to be clear: we are prepared for a vote on the nuclear option. Democrats will join responsible Republicans in a vote to uphold the constitutional principle of checks and balances. If it does come to a vote, I asked Senator Frist to allow his Republican colleagues to follow their consciences. Senator Specter recently said that Senators should be bound by Senate loyalty rather than party loyalty on a question of this magnitude. But right wing activists are threatening primary challenges against Republicans who vote against the nuclear option. Senators should not face this or any other form of retribution based on their support for the Constitution. In return, I pledge that I will place no such pressure on Democratic Senators and I urge Senator Frist to refrain from placing such pressure on Republican Senators. I also suggest two reasonable ways to avert this constitutional crisis. First, allow up or down votes on additional nominees, as I addressed in my proposal to Frist two weeks ago. If this is about getting judges on the courts, let's get them on the courts. Second, allow the Senate to consider changing the rules without breaking the rules. Every one of us knows that there is a right way and a wrong way to change the rules of the Senate; the nuclear option is the wrong way. Senator Dodd will go to the floor this afternoon to expand on the way the Senate changes its rules. I suggest that Senator Frist introduce his proposal as a resolution. If he does, we commit to moving it through the Rules Committee expeditiously and allow for a vote on the floor. It takes 67 votes to change the rules. If Senator Frist can't achieve 67 votes, then clearly the nuclear option is not in the best interest of the Senate or the nation. Either of these options offers a path away from the precipice of the nuclear option. But if neither of these options is acceptable to you, let's vote. Posted by: Nancy on May 11, 2005 04:01 AMjudi - I don't think we should dis the Democrats. We should support Harry Reid's courage, as he is the one who is clearly demonstrating some real grit here. We should focus on strength and feed it. If we keep focusing on the wimpiness, we feed it. I always love reading Podvin. It is very satisfying to read his skewering articles. But I think we have a real trap we need to dodge in the satisfaction we get in slamming the Dems and focusing on their weaknesses, manifold though they may be. Reid is standing firm in a way Daschle never did. It is very heartening and we have the power to feed it and make it grow. He can start to be a role model for the rest of them. Posted by: Nancy on May 11, 2005 04:10 AMMike, uh huh, I knew it. And now, Guido, who complained that we're all a bunch o' party poopers is gonna crash? Early?? Very interesting about the Poor Laws, Barbara, esp. considering current Uranus & Neptune placements! I gotta say, these politician types confuse me. I really liked Paul Wellstone. It always felt like he was really coming from a sincere, heartfelt place; seemed like a rare good guy in that venue. So then they croaked 'im. Nice... 'night everybody. Psst. Guido, HEY GUIDO! Stop snoring! Posted by: Lori on May 11, 2005 04:19 AMHey...Marta, I totally agree with your assessment on 'changing mind'....it is a little like Don Juan telling Carlos he was too solid, and to accessible, therefore he should learn to be invisible. Rereading this book now is wonderful, as now I understand Don Juan instead of understanding Carlos!! hahaha....and Castenada's niece started a web site called http://www.castenada.com if you want to check it out...very interesting! Bucky Fuller really influenced him. JM...not surprised you would like Castenada....! Pat C.....that is a very Don Juan question you asked.....I laughed out loud....apparently trees are definitely not heard falling in B*s forrest.... Barbara....Harpers is ALWAYS educational....I think learning and relearning is something we should all be doing all the time....and they have such a wonderful way of breaking important stuff....that is where I first read about Thomas Frank's book about Kansas....I have a friend who sends me the articles of import....and she's never wrong. Lori...some Dems are speaking up, even ones with fortunes. I think Marta is right, we have to think out of the victim box. We need to do the mental work. We need to act as supporters to the ones who need the push....where is damn Jimmy Stewart and Mr. Smith when you really need them? Is Harry Reid the new Mr. Smith? Mike...loved your 'index'....hohoho....Rudyar was my all time fave astroguy....just suprised I hadn't met Guido until coming here... Nancy ....again....thanks for the Reid post.. Nancy...you posted while I was posting....just to make it totally clear, because I really don't like to dis dems....I am against it. But I was asking earlier in a rhetorical way to others if it was helping to do so. I am with you....we need to do support. There are enough repukes ready to destroy people if they don't do their bidding....I just don't see what good it does to destroy the people carrying the banner. But then I have so much Leo, including a Leo moon, that it takes a lot to stop that loyalty....and enough Scorpio rising to want to destroy people who are betrayers of the public trust. Boy...what a duet THAT is....I think I will do a Don Juan and get invisible....which is also very Scorpio I hear. Except I think Guido would be able to see me....and maybe WV out there at 5:30 walking the dog...(s) Posted by: judi gemini on May 11, 2005 04:30 AMDear Astroworlders, Tonite on our radio show, we had on Tom Laughlin, "Billy Jack". He is making a new movie and it is all about the Bush-Cheney lies about Iraq and the real reason why we went to war. Oil, Oil and more oil not wmd's, Osama or any other lie that Fox news spews forth. Check out billyjack.com. He plans public forums with the People taking back our government. Bill Marshall, radioastrologer.com Posted by: Bill Marshall on May 11, 2005 04:40 AMYou know, it is getting harder to know whom to trust. in this political climate, and if the repukes can cast dispersion upon our elected dems if and get us to believe it well, it is like throwing oil over the moat on the peasants, isn't it?...since some of the people on this board have seen or heard people they trust saying there is no difference between the two sides, etc....and using their intuition about the elections as their guideposts, while other see a different scenario, using their intuitions also, and yet again another....on and on. Some of it is disappointment, some of it is probably based in our very own psyches and upbringing, experiences and states of mind. The best thing about being in a democratic house and country is at least we can talk about it. Life is TOO SHORT TO NOT BE PRESENT. I am certain that had the scenario been different in Nov 04, we would not be having this discussion about the viability of the Dems. I believe Kerrey did win the election and treason was committed in high places. But some people believe he ran a bad campaign, had bad managers (which is probably also true) and / or he is strictly a plant of the people who 'run everything'.... I think those are really serious questions. Sure wish Guido (and Guida May) would tell me which one of those scenarios is the right one! And maybe the Guido/a s will be writing a book soon to answer all of these questions? Posted by: judi gemini on May 11, 2005 04:43 AMHey Mike, I be checking in from that little comma in the bottom left corner of Pacifica - New Zealand. Relocated from Hawaii last year. Maybe I'll start using my screen name ..... Posted by: Kiwi Jeanie on May 11, 2005 05:35 AMkiwi jeanie, great name. i hope globalization and all that stuff leaves you largely alone and that the rabble-rouser australians trow out the evil-doers who sent their massive contingent (750 troops i believe) to save the day in iraq! Reid, Reid, Reid...not a simiple personality to understand: dirt poor, dad suicides at 6, lives in the middle of no where, backs down mobsters (chokes one on hidden camera), and looks like bob newheart. He will surprise all of us...I love this statement. BTW, he knew Frist would reject any compromise he put forth. He just wants to look reasonable when he goes for it. He has some growing to do and he'll do that. Look for him to really get wild and wooly this summer and fall. Of all our public faces, he's the one that can appeal most to 'middle America.' As long as the message is right, who cares. It's 2:37 AM EST time. Do you know where your beds are? Posted by: mike on May 11, 2005 07:37 AMYes, Mike, Harry may not be as pretty as Barbara Boxer, but he's a fighter of equal class. I say we cheer him on... Marta's comment upthread about not giving up power to a stalker is part of what Nancy's words speak to in her article. We must not give our power up to Frist et al, who have given up theirs to "bag men" --- shades of Watergate, with a twist --- guys who think they can sell values the way they sell toothpaste. We recognize the GOP has been hijacked by the Neocons... we fail to recognize that they want the Democratic Party too, in toto... The system is broke but our only hope in fixing it is by shoring up and transforming the Democrats into a more authentic representation of the People. It's the only tool we have at present to fight those who are bent on dismantling our Constitution, our system of government. Mike, I think you are affirming Nancy's predictions regarding Harry Reid... looks to be an interesting autumn. [got to get rid of those emachines though!] Anybody noticed that the Marines are moving toward Syrian border in their efforts to rout out insurgents? Anybody noticed that we are closer to June, and Iran? Anybody notice that the US military is growing more aggressive? (Watch that three-card Monte going on...) Now that I've emptied my head, I can try to find my bed... Ne illegitimi carbunculi tibi in facie sint! Namaste The vagaries of life - Ikkyu (1394-1481) Mike, sadly no, big brother is changing NZ too - in fact I am absolutely shocked at what I see. It is NOT the country I grew up in. The global fascist brigade marches on. Between all the laws they've managed to get changed here and the large immigration (%age wise for a small country) the humble honest kiwi is becoming an endangered species - and I don't mean the bird!
The message is ready to be sent with the following file or link attachments: Dear Judi Gem (an emerald; much rarer than those dime-a-dozen diamonds...it's all in the marketing, folks!), you've hit the nail on the head. It's SO hard to figure out who to trust these days. Reminds me of when I was a kid, and Watergate, and me saying, "If you can't trust the President, who can you trust?" and Mom saying, "You can trust your dad." Which was and is true -- even though his vote is based on his anti-abortion feelings, he hasn't closed his eyes to the shenanigans and lies. He still questions and pays attention. Unfortunately (and in some ways, fortunately, haha) he's not the Prez, or even the Rez. Then Watergate makes me feel almost thankful, for having prepared me for today. So I'm not wallowing in depression. (Cynicism and distrust is the better part of depression?) I was raised by hardcore, union Dems; I STILL feel disappointed (and that they betrayed themselves and me) that my parents did the Reagan switch. Over one stinkin' issue. And Judi, I am confused. Sometimes Dems do something that feels so good (Aaaah!), others I wonder WHY they're voting for...the bankruptcy bill, or Clarence Thomas, or Iraq. Do they not know what's in these bills? (It's not uncommon for them to say, "Oops, we didn't know THIS was in here! We're now working to remove this item." as in the Patriot Act.) When the twin towers were hit, my mind conjured up the image of the gov't INSTIGATING it. When Iraq first was talked about, I said, "nothing to do with Osama; they don't have a single WMD." I don't fear terrorists; I'm not sure we have need to, to tell you the truth. I fear our gov't. That's pretty sad. I still tend to vote Dem, though voted for Nader in 2000. I was torn about that, too. There are certain issues I tend towards Libertarian; social issues I tend towards a more Socialist bent. Basically, it boils down to: take care of those less fortunate and other than that, do what you will BUT HARM NONE. (Wiccan creed) For me, caring for the less fortunate needs to be a gov't thing. We live paycheck to paycheck. No extra to give. And we live pretty frugally, pretty much just basic necessities (though no lack thereof). So yeah. I'm confused. I very much WANT to confidently put my trust in the Dems. I do so cautiously at this point. But ultimately I do. And I know you all are right. We have to support them and work to get them working for us more consistently. And perhaps they're doing a better job of it than I sometimes think. I'm a little afraid to throw in completely with them -- afraid of being devasted by disappointment, is the truth. But I do agree with you all, and in the end I do support them. And Jo is right that we have to work with and through the Dems. God knows *I* don't have a platform (hahahah! -- not entirely sure I want one, anyway...) I'll set aside the negative, and accentuate the positive! Posted by: Lori on May 11, 2005 03:18 PMHey everyone!!! Just to let you know, I greatly enjoy reading all of your posts and the articles buy Sally, Nancy and Jo. Keep up the good posting everyone!!!
With the conjunction of Mars and Uranus, whose effects will be felt for months, ocurences and attempts like these may not be uncommon anymore. Remember the article by astrologer Ed Tamplin, where is says that whe Neptune reaches the midpoint of a fire sign (16 or 17 degrees), that is when most assasination atempts on US Presidents occured, some of which were unfortunately sucessful. That is going on right now, and with this Mars-Uranus conjunction, I suspect that it will be even worse and more frequent. President Bush MUST be careful now when he travels oversees, because the stars and planets are getting aggresive on him. Also, since this conjunction between Mars and Uranus is occuring in a water sign, expect to see water-relatd events happening such as tsumanis over the next few months. Since North Korea is threatening to test one of thier nuclear weapons, the conjunction of Mars and Uranus in a water sign must also translated to the North Koreans testing one of thier nukes in the Sea of japan or in the Pacific Ocean. These are only some of the possibilities that come with his dangerous apsect of these two planets. I will keep you updated as the time progresses. Posted by: Neerav Trivedi on May 11, 2005 03:22 PM Great column, WV. Thanks for posting that. Posted by: Lori on May 11, 2005 03:28 PMBarbara, I sent your post about the Poor Laws and your reading of Harper's article on economics to my writer friend Ann....she wrote back: The Harper's article on religious economics is dead on the mark. It has always been part of the duality of Christians' argument with themselves: Is "Grace" given freely and randomly or must it be earned? You add to that basic Calvinism (money equated with moral worth, the poor divided into the worthy poor and the unworthy) with an immigrant, rapacious migrating population (if you can't keep up, you threaten the group and can be dumped by the side of the road as being of no value and if you have something we want, it's ours because we are chosen by God to build a shinning city on a hill) and you have the makings for a really cruel Darwinian, genocidal society masquerading as a "loving"Christian Nation. That conflicting dualism give us our appalling hypocrisy and since we refuse to acknowledge this dark heart at the center of our society and our psyches and choose to remain unknown even to ourselves, this makes us incredibly dangerous as a nation, both to one another and to other nations outside our borders. And soooo easy to lead down the road to hell, paved with shinning, smiley-faced lies. The Sky is falling! The Sky is falling! Chicken hawk Dick Cheney is in his bunker (*'s ratings are in the toilet!) --- a grenade 'near the Rez' --- ('scuse me, no thing, no one CAN get NEAR the Rez! esp. when he is traveling outside the USA) two weeks ago, the shadow from a helicopter that apparently had drifted into the 'no air' space over the White House caused a panic in Washington DC... now few minutes ago NORAD notified White House that a small plane had violated the 'no air' space and the White House, the Capitol, the Dept. of Labor (we know who is important, don't we) were evacuated! Dick to the rescue... got to get those ratings up! Nothing like a terra alert to remind folks to be afraid. To rephrase the words of Winston --- we have nothing to fear except this administration... Posted by: Jo on May 11, 2005 05:29 PMNeerav, Neptune is mid-pt of an air sign (Aquarius). I think with Mars/Uranus conjunct in a water sign (Pisces) the only way that Bush could go is another freaky accident involving water. Say, he slips and falls and drowns in his own big bathtub in Crawford. Re...Dems....there was a headline in the SF chron the other day that WOMEN are flocking back to the Democratic party...and these were women who voted for Bush in Nov....my question is....do we WANT them? LOL... Posted by: judi gemini on May 11, 2005 06:12 PM
1. Open a new file in your PC. Re: more on the Neptune Aquarius and Uranus Pisces cycle....I am glad Barbara brought that up in her post....because the 2nd of the two Poor Laws:The Poor Laws were essentially (1) the privitization of public welfare (the guy running the poor house also sold them the supplies) and (2) law enforcement of the idea that an indigent who was elderly, disabled, or orphaned was poor because of his own moral deficiency and required harsh treatment. These laws lead to many deaths in the British Isles including the one and a half million deaths in the Irish Potato Famine later (and after Uranus had traveled into Aries)stuck in my mind....I had heard it before....and then I remembered it...the Japanese professor of economics at Harvard Business School said that georgie boy used to quote it all the time....that was HIS view of the poor. And according to Reagan's daughter (I forgot her name...Pattie Davis?), Ronnie believed the same thing. What makes people have ideas like this? Are they ALIENS? (from another solar system, I mean)
http://www.truthout.org/docs_2005/printer_051105X.shtml Posted by: wv on May 11, 2005 09:59 PMAfgans Riot Over Gitmo Report http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2005/05/11/terror/main694379.shtml Good. At least someone's getting restless ... Posted by: Marta on May 11, 2005 10:17 PMagree with JillG, bush could easily do himself in--and today was another WH and Capitol airspace buzzing that shut down the Capitol - bush was on his 'bicycle' somewhere and SS pushed cheney into the bunker (he likes it there). these buzzings and the grenade incident the other day are, if nothing else, interesting little messages to bush - and rather nasty msgs to bush: we're watching you... Go to rawstory. Larry Flynt's claiming to have some major goods on Vile Bolton. Posted by: shylurker on May 12, 2005 01:14 AMCNN is carrying the memo story. Dare we hope that the media will run with this story for several weeks now that Jupiter is just reaching the trine to US Uranus (stationary for several weeks)? The Abu Ghraib story hit with Jupiter square US Uranus, stationary. http://www.cnn.com/2005/US/05/11/britain.war.memo/index.html Posted by: Nancy on May 12, 2005 02:57 AMHave you ever noticed those people who brag they have "never been sick a day in my life" are unsympathetic when others are ill? "If only those sick folk were as sensible/resolute etc. as I, then they wouldn't get sick," they seem to believe. On the other hand, there are some extraordinary people who dedicate themselves to healing not because they were ever ill, but because of compassion and empathy. It seems to me that the "born with a silver spoon crowd" come in two flavors: those who are taught perspective and "nobless oblige"; and those who are taught that their birth on third base means that they should take credit for hitting a triple. Anyhow, born rich or poor, I guess empathy or the lack of it, is the main factor in whether a person behaves humanely or not. And even with empathy and the best intentions it is hard to walk in someone else's shoes. That is why diversity in government is so good--with the best will in the world can I understand a man's point of view as well as he does? And with the best will in the world, how can men make the decisions that affect only women? And how easy it is for a well-educated person to tell the functionally-illiterate kid who was graduated from high school because he played ball well that he should just go out and find himself a job. On another note--my natal Mars/Saturn are conjunct at 8 Pisces. Was it someone here who mentioned Billy Jack's New Crusade/movie?! Pretty powerful stuff and not a moment too soon... http://www.billyjack.com/index.php?menuID=Page&pid=84 Between this and the Princeton Filibuster Frist movement (paralleled by other universities), Howard Dean, Boxer & Reid, I feel the spirit of the 60s coming on and it sure feels good. A new dawn is coming, boys 'n girls :-) Posted by: Sharon on May 12, 2005 05:16 AMWould you astrologers kindly see if there are any sexual implications (of the scandalous kind) in current aspects? First, the Larry Flynt accusations against Wild Vile Bolton: And now, even more stunning news about one of Smirky's appointees for reproductive health (oh, yeah!):
Ah, yes, and while the really big issue of that memo that Nancy mentioned a bit earlier rocks on, we have had: a grenade found somewhere in the vicinty of Smirky during his travels a day ago, a Cessna flying into hallowed (near the WH) air space (while Smirky was bicycling, I believe) today, and a fire in one of the Capital buildings (Senate????) a bit later in the day. What else we gonna have for diversions? Neptune involved in all this? Which planet is contributing the clownish aspect? Well, while they suppress the memo, at least Larry Flynt and the ex-wife of that sodomist are talking. Pluto? Please, help me out here. This is very interesting stuff. Posted by: shylurker on May 12, 2005 05:36 AMalways willing to help a shylurker in distress. this is a fun article. it shows just what a bunch of sleazoids the * people are. oh...my...god...becky! here's the link http://rawstory.com/exclusives/byrne/larry_flynt_bolton_511 RAW STORY From Mr. Flynt's release: Corroborated allegations that Mr. Bolton’s first wife, Christina Bolton, was *forced to engage in group sex* have not been refuted by the State Department despite inquires posed by Hustler magazine publisher Larry Flynt concerning the allegations. Mr. Flynt has obtained information from numerous sources that *Mr. Bolton participated in paid visits to Plato’s Retreat, the popular swingers club* that operated in New York City in the late 1970s and early 1980s. “The first Mrs. Bolton’s conduct raises the presumption that she fled out of fear for her safety or, at a minimum, it demonstrates that Mr. *Bolton’s established inability to communicate or work respectfully with others extended to his intimate family relations,”* said Mr. Flynt. “The court records alone provide sufficient basis for further investigation of nominee Bolton by the Senate.” These court records are enclosed here as an attachment. Mr. Flynt continued, “The U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations must be free of any potential source of disrepute or blackmail.” "forced" to have group sex." i'd say his wife recovered some semblance of sanity after she married him. you look at the guy and think, whad a dreck! "paid visits" to Plato's Retreat. I was in NYC when this place was around. it was a gay bathhouse and bett midler started there. then it became "Plato's Retreat," same set up just for so-called "straights." It was THE BIG JOKE OF NYC. You need the title "skivatz" to walk in the door. Paying to gothere conjures up :ROFLMAO: Is this guy a TOTAL LOSER or what! (rhetorical question). shylurker, now stop that :blushing: Posted by: mike on May 12, 2005 08:17 AMOMG!!! Between Bolton, Dr. Hager, and don't forget Ryan who dropped out of the Illinois Senate race - what is it with all these fundies and sodomy and group sex??? Oh - and look at the Spokane Mayor - ex-sheriff's deputy, opponent of gay rights, who solicits young men online and possibly molested young boys as a boy scout leader. All these conservative values make me want to puke!! Now everybody write a letter to "We'll yeh I can take all kinds of abuse as long as its a PROFESSIONAL, doing the abusing! http://salon.com/news/feature/2005/05/12/nuclear_option_primer/print.html Everything you wanted to know about the "nuclear option" May 12, 2005 | To hear the partisans on either side describe it, the coming debate over Bill Frist's plan to kill the filibuster is a thing of apocalyptic proportions. Focus on the Family's James Dobson says the ground in Washington is "almost too hot to walk on" right now, that the faithful are in their "foxholes" and the "bullets are flying overhead." Democratic National Committee chairman Howard Dean says Republicans are fixing to "blow up 200 years of Senate history" just because they're not getting their way on a handful of "radical" judicial nominees. On Capitol Hill, the threat of the "nuclear option" has created a sort of political ground zero, and activists on both sides believe that the way this thing plays out will control the shape of the federal judiciary -- and with it, the interpretation of the U.S. Constitution -- for decades to come.
So if you haven't been giving your undivided attention to Priscilla Owen, Abe Fortas -- he's dead, but he plays into this -- and the intricacies of Senate Rule XXII, you can feel proud that you're right in the middle of the American mainstream. But now it's time to pay attention. A vote on Frist's "nuclear option" may come as early as next week, and we're here to help you get up to speed. Call it a primer on the judicial confirmation process. Call it what you get when you spend way too much time reading Riddick's Senate Procedure. Just don't call it the "nuclear option" -- at least not when Bill Frist is around to correct you. The Senate majority leader doesn't want his plan to sound so explosive, but be forewarned: Unless somebody blinks first, we're in for a mind-warping set of unprecedented Senate maneuvers that could put Dick Cheney in charge of deeming the filibuster "unconstitutional" -- without a word from those folks in black robes across the street -- and grease the way for each and every right-wing extremist George W. Bush ever cares to put on a district court, an appellate court or the U.S. Supreme Court. More...
Mars coming up on Uranus. Is that what's happening here? There's a big Trickster influence operative, it seems to me. What a bunch of sick, repressed GOP slime-balls. And, apparently, even more to come. Meanwhile, there is that small matter of the leaked memo . . . Posted by: shylurker on May 12, 2005 02:32 PMTom Ridge was on the Today show this morning, ostensibly to talk about that nasty little plane that lost its way yesterday. Matt Lauer asked him about his recent comments pertaining to raising the "terror alert" level when he was head of "Homeland Security." Though Lauer kind of pounded him ("...people are going out and buying duct tape and water and supplies, and now they find out you were saying 'for THAT?!' What are they going to think?"),* Ridge was INSISTENT that "there was always a strong consensus" among the group deciding to raise the level. Call up in your memory how * always appeared so defensive, with a "put 'em up!" attitude while he insisted that there ARE WMDs in Iraq, or we WILL get bin Laden, or we MUST have private Social Security accounts or SS will go bankrupt...that's how Tom Ridge appeared on the Today show. He was practically YELLING at Matt Lauer. (Methinks you protest too much, Mr. Ridge.) These people get kind of upset if you don't swallow their lie(s) hook, line and sinker. Posted by: Lori on May 12, 2005 02:53 PMLori, Tom Ridge was never the brightest crayon in their box (but, then, who is?). However, there are things such as busted knee caps, info leaked to Flynt (Yay, Larry! We're so far gone that the publisher of Hustler has to try and save us.), denial/disappearanae of federal funds for local projects, blackmail and so on. Aside from the out-and-out hypocrisy, the "private lives" of the Repugs provide overwhelming documentation of how much they hate women. Just imagine: denying women the right to determine what goes on with their bodies (including, forcing them to bear children) while, simultaneously, forcing your unwilling wife to have anal sex. Posted by: shylurker on May 12, 2005 03:03 PMIt's all too much, Shylurker. I'm so stunned by the consistent straight-faced (or scowling), bald-face lies and the incredible extent of the hypocrisy, and the thievery, etc etc etc. I'm beyond words about all that. And when I'M beyond words, let me tell you, that's something! haha "Yay, Larry! We're so far gone that the publisher of Hustler has to try and save us." -- you said it, Shy! Go Larry!! (Forgot to explain * after my quote in my last post: I'm paraphrasing, not giving an exact quote.) Posted by: Lori on May 12, 2005 04:34 PMAlso, I think "...for THAT?!" lends creedence to the idea that this color-coded goofiness is used to keep the general public scared and in line. I just always feel skeptical that there's any threat. For all we know, they HAD the guy fly the cessna into WH no-fly zone yesterday! What a show. Keep us all on our toes, "yessir, no sir, whatever you say, sir." I just have a VERY hard time buying any of this business about any threats. I mean, why haven't they poisoned our food supply yet? (hahahaha! That Tommy Thompson, he just cracks me up!) Posted by: Lori on May 12, 2005 04:38 PMFrom Sirota's blog (link on Rawstory): "Should any political party attempt to abolish social security, unemployment insurance, and eliminate labor laws and farm programs, you would not hear of that party again in our political history. There is a tiny splinter group, of course, that believes you can do these things. Among them are [a] few other Texas oil millionaires, and an occasional politician or business man from other areas. Their number is negligible and they are stupid." Although there are many more good (and totally clueless) people in every religion, the subtext of the Jewish/Christian/Muslim religions is one of controlling males buying into a violent, punishing ethic, while on the surface espousing the words of Christ that no-one can live up to without seriously bending their human nature out of shape. In that sense, these religions are totally self-abnegating and self-hating. Meanwhile, submissive women (although, not all) are buying it, as Mrs. Hagar was, in return for upkeep, lifestyle, and social approval. It is really a horrible and hypocritical situation and reminds me of why I could not look at Nixon's face on tv and why my husband has turned off B** on TV and radio since the November election of 2000. These people really are living in a house of cards which they are putting all their aggressive, testosterine energy into keeping up, but all of the sick, neurotic, misplaced energy of these aging men is taking a toll on their health. Their days are numbered. This is the last dying gasps of patriarchal fascism on earth but, unfortunately, it may take a while to completely die out. Meanwhile, my cousin who follows an Indian meditation group, says the drama is perfect. All is happening as it is meant to. And we are meant to rise up and change it. Posted by: Sharon on May 12, 2005 05:07 PMWe are meant to rise up and change it are my words, part of my cousin's spiritual philosophy. But if it happens, then it's part of the drama. It's like Nietche's (sp?) theories of the will to power which influenced the Nazis and Fascists...use of the will to power alone creates a distorted, perverted charicature of a human. To further compound it in this case, is that these people want to believe that they are saved and now pure and holier than thou. In fact, they are Christians and only want the best for their fellow human, to see that G-d's will be done. What a sick and dangerous state of affairs when people like this have power. This "rant" arose from reading the article on David Hagar. It is just all so disgusting. Would that more wives would tell the truth of what they have had to put up with. In the Billyjack.com website, one can see that they have formulated a way to help girls and women develop their masculine side so they can be full and complete individuals and real women, not just MTs (masturbation tools). Good stuff and the way of the future, I would think. Posted by: Sharon on May 12, 2005 05:23 PM"not" part of my cousin's spiritual philosophy... Posted by: Sharon on May 12, 2005 05:24 PMSharon, You rock girl! Namaste Posted by: Jo on May 12, 2005 08:20 PMJust to be flippant for a moment:Anyone else notice the similarities getween the Bush administration and the Borg?'Resistance is futile! You will be assimilated into the New World Corporate Order!'On a serious ending note, the Bush administration has just declared war on everyone else in space. I'm beginning to wonder if these clowns aren't rogue Scientologists who took L. Ron Hubbard's disgusting science-fiction vision of A future and are trying to make it THE future.Softwaredata recoveryVoIPWhat is WiFiInternet TelephonyVoIP ProviderVoIP SoftwareVoIP Services What is VoIPVoIP Phone SystemVoIP DrawbackVoIP ArchitectureVoIP Solutions VoIP ReviewsVoIP TechnologyWiFi CardsWiFi AntenaWiFi IEEE WiFi RangeWiFi WAPWiFi futureWiFi SecurityWiFi Hotspot WiFi BluetoothWiFi Drawbackwhat is data lossdata recoveryraid data recoverydata recovery softwarehard drive data recoverydata recovery servicehard disk data recoverydisk data recovery emergency data recoveryrecovery solutionsComputer Data RecoveryNetwork securityFireWall securityAbout UsNetwork securityContact usSite MapFirewallSecurity TipsFirewallRole of IPHacker TechnologiesVPNRelated Topics Application Layer AttacksIP AddressingIP Spoofing Netwark security scannerNetwork packet sniffersPassword attacksProtecting confidential informationSecurityTrusted Networkbusiness cardsfirewallfirewallcar rentalnetwork securitycruisesweddingcorporate giftscheap flightsantivirus softwareBackground ChecksCRMVOIPFree VoIPDefinition of VOIPVoIP ArchitectureVOIP ReviewsAuto Telephone DialersUnlimited Free VOIPCRM software reviewsVOIP TechnologiesVoIP ProviderBPOVoIP Site mapBackground checksData recoveryAdvantages of WiFiScuba DivingNetwork SecurityLindsay LohanVoIPConferencingSoftwareWiFi Certification http://www.nutinhermouth.org/upskirtsniper/ http://www.allaboutashley.biz/ I agree with you .
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