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China In Record US Debt Sell-Off
China in record US debt sell-off | Al Jazeera
Submitted by Michael Munk | www.MichaelMunk.com
"Chinese leaders are deploying their reserves to try and pressure the US to stop haranguing China about its currency and trade policies and to back off from interference in its domestic political and human rights issues,"..."While China may reduce its holdings of US debt in order to send a signal to Washington - though this is not necessarily the only reason it would do so - it has no intention of selling debt to the point that it wrecks the US economic recovery, since doing so would destroy China's own economic and socio-political stability,"...
China sold a record amount of its US Treasury holdings in December, ceding its place as the world's biggest foreign holder of US debt to Japan.
According to Treasury figures released on Tuesday, Beijing sold off more than $34bn of its holdings in the final month of 2009, cutting its holding of US debt by just over 4 per cent to $755.4bn.
Japan now holds almost $11bn more US debt than China, with a total of nearly $769bn.
Japan had been the largest holder of US Treasury bonds until September 2008, when it was overtaken by China. Read more.
Afghanistan: Charlie Wilson And America's 30-Year War
Afghanistan: Charlie Wilson And America's 30-Year War
Rick Rozoff | Stop NATO | Blog site | February 15, 2010
The extraordinary American patriot and cinema hero Wilson said of his efforts in the 1980s, "This is the one chance to send the Soviet young men home in body bags like they sent our boys back in body bags. Let's make this a Vietnam for the Soviets."
On February 13 the United States and NATO led an assault with 15,000 Western and Afghan government troops against Marjah, a town in Helmand province with a population of 75,000. One soldier for every five civilians. The NATO contingent involved in the offensive includes troops from Britain, Canada, Denmark, Estonia and the U.S.
In the opening hours of the massive attack, "the biggest air[borne] assault ever undertaken by coalition forces in the country," [1] two rockets fired from a NATO High Mobility Artillery Rocket System slammed into a house outside Marjah and killed twelve civilians. General Stanley McChrystal, commander of all U.S. and NATO Forces in the country, described the incident as "regrettable."
An account from a British newspaper described the situation in the town after the assault began: "The populous Taliban stronghold of Marjah has, say residents, become a ghost town. Shops are shuttered, streets deserted and most inhabitants are hiding inside their mud-brick houses wondering when their 'day of doom' will come." [2]
The operation is the largest staged by the U.S. and its NATO allies since the war in Afghanistan was launched in early October of 2001. It is the opening salvo in the plan for escalation of the counterinsurgency war in that nation announced by U.S. President Barack Obama at the West Point Military Academy last December 3. [3]
Outside View: Vietnam 1963 and Afghanistan 2010
Outside View: Vietnam 1963 and Afghanistan 2010
By Col. Lawrence Sellin, Ph.D. | UPI
McChrystal, NATO and U.S. commander in Afghanistan, admits that the Afghan national army and the Afghan national police are not sufficiently effective to take ownership of Afghanistan's security. He has recommended that the ANA accelerate growth to a new level of 134,000 by fall 2010, with required additional growth to 240,000. McChrystal has also requested ANP growth to a total strength of at least 160,000.
According to McCaffrey, the United States and its allies are unlikely to achieve the political and military goals in the 18 months as set out by President Barack Obama when he announced his troop surge of 30,000 additional U.S. forces. McCaffrey noted that "this will inevitably become a 3-to-10 year strategy to build a viable Afghan state with their own security force that can allow us to withdraw. It may well cost us an additional $300 billion and we are likely to suffer thousands more U.S. casualties."
Ten years after NIE 53-63 was published, the United States finally left South Vietnam.
According to a strategic assessment of security operations in Afghanistan prepared by U.S. Army Gen. Barry McCaffrey (Ret.) on Dec 9, 2009, the Taliban believe they are winning.
Additionally, the Afghan people do not know whether the current government or the Taliban will prevail. The population, particularly the majority Pashtuns, are hedging their bets. Most Afghans are dismayed by the injustice and corruption of the central government, in particular, the Afghan National Police, McCaffrey said.
Such observations follow closely those of U.S. Army Gen. Stanley McChrystal in his Aug. 30, 2009, report: "Many indicators suggest the overall situation is deteriorating. We face not only a resilient and growing insurgency; there is also a crisis of confidence among Afghans -- in both their government -- and the international community -- that undermines our credibility and emboldens the insurgents. Further, a perception that our resolve is uncertain makes Afghans reluctant to align with us against the insurgents." Read more.
U.S. Extends Missile Buildup From Poland And Taiwan To Persian Gulf
U.S. Extends Missile Buildup From Poland And Taiwan To Persian Gulf
Rick Rozoff | Stop NATO | Blog site | February 3, 2010
On January 20 Poland's Defense Ministry revealed that a U.S. Patriot missile battery previously scheduled to be stationed near the nation's capital will instead be deployed to a Baltic Sea location 35 miles from Russian territory; on January 29 the White House approved the transfer of 114 Patriot missiles to Taiwan as part of a $6.5 billion arms package that also includes eight warships the receiving nation plans to upgrade for the Aegis Combat System with the capacity for carrying Standard Missile 3 (SM-3) ship-based anti-ballistic missiles.
On January 22 head of the Pentagon's Central Command General David Petraeus told an audience at the private Institute for the Study of War that two warships equipped with the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System "are in the Gulf at all times now." [1] A news report on the same day remarked "That statement - along with the stationing of other U.S. air defense assets in the region - sends a strong signal to Iran...." [2]
The New York Times reported on January 30 that the U.S. was expediting the deployment of Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) interceptor missiles to four Persian Gulf nations - Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates - thereby paralleling the combination of sea-based Aegis and land-based Patriot missiles intended for the Taiwan Strait aimed at China and in the Baltic Sea targeting Russia. The Gulf deployments are intended for use against Iran.
"One senior military officer said that General Petraeus had started talking openly about the Patriot deployments about a month ago, when it became increasingly clear that international efforts toward imposing sanctions against Iran faced hurdles...." [3]
On February 1 The Times of London commented on the coordinated interceptor missile plans: "Tensions in the Gulf between the US and Iran are set to rise further after it emerged that American-made anti-missile systems are to be deployed to Washington's Arab allies in the region.
"The Obama Administration said yesterday that it was speeding up arms sales to a number of states and that it had also deployed warships in the Gulf...."
As in the Baltic Sea and Taiwan, PAC-3 missiles - "dedicated almost entirely to the anti-ballistic missile mission" [4] and which soon will have their capability increased by 50% with an upgrade called Missile Segment Enhancement - will be used for short- to medium-range and Aegis class warships for medium to long-range missile interceptions. The basic ingredients of a multilayered theater missile shield.
Game Changer: China Plans to Open Military Bases Worldwide
Game Changer: China Plans to Open Military Bases Worldwide
by Pluto | Antimedius
This we know.
It has been speculated upon in open-source intelligence circles for years. So, there is little surprise for the rest of the world when it hears of China's first major foray in its new role as a Superpower.
Although Americans might be surprised. That is, if they even hear about it before the Juarez, Mexico base goes live.
China mulls setting up military base in Pakistan
Well, why not?
China already pays for our military imperialism by loaning us the money to play soldier. So, why shouldn't the world's new Superpower just cut to the chase and open their own bases? Read more. Click "Read more" below to see the Economist magazine cover "How China Sees the World."
Hillary Clinton's Prescription: Make The World A NATO Protectorate
Hillary Clinton's Prescription: Make The World A NATO Protectorate
Rick Rozoff | Stop NATO | Blog site
"European security is, not only to the individual nations, but to the world. It is, after all, more than a collection of countries linked by history and geography. It is a model for the transformative power of reconciliation, cooperation, and community"....However, "much important work remains unfinished. The transition to democracy is incomplete in parts of Europe and Eurasia."...
To elite trans-Atlantic policy makers the above paragraphs' meaning is indisputable: The use of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization military bloc - the true foundation of the "transatlantic partnership" - in waging war in and effectively colonizing the Balkans and in expanding into Eastern Europe, incorporating twelve new nations including former Warsaw Pact members and Soviet republics, is the worldwide paradigm for the West in the 21st century.
U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton was busy in London and Paris last week advancing the new Euro-Atlantic agenda for the world.
As the top foreign policy official of what her commander-in-chief Barack Obama touted as being the world's sole military superpower on December 10, she is no ordinary foreign minister. Her position is rather some composite of several ones from previous historical epochs: Viceroy, proconsul, imperial nuncio.
When a U.S. secretary of state speaks the world pays heed. Any nation that doesn't will suffer the consequences of that inattention, that disrespect toward the imperatrix mundi.
On January 27 she was in London for a conference on Yemen and the following day she attended the International Conference on Afghanistan in the same city.
Also on the 28th she and two-thirds of her NATO quad counterparts, British Foreign Secretary David Miliband and French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner (along with EU High Representative Catherine Ashton), pronounced a joint verdict on the state of democracy in Nigeria, Britain's former colonial possession.
Afterwards she crossed the English channel and delivered an address called Remarks on the Future of European Security at L'Ecole Militaire in Paris on January 29. That presentation was the most substantive component of her three-day European junket and the only one that dealt mainly with the continent itself, her previous comments relating to what are viewed by the United States and its Western European NATO partners as backwards, "ungovernable" international badlands. That is, the rest of the world.
China May Punish US War Contractors
China may punish US war contractors
US Companies, Workers At Risk of Losing Chinese Business Because of US-Taiwan Weapons Deal
Michael Munk wrote:
Responding to Obama's provocation, China may impose sanction on US companies who sell military weapons to Taiwan. Ignorant reporters write that since US companies are banned from selling arms to China, they would not be hurt.
Nonsense: Most of the military-industrial complex members listed below are not only merchants of death. United Technologies sells elevators and air conditioning to China; Boeing sells civilian aircraft and manufactures sub-assemblies in China.
When US companies lose a market in China, eager competitors, usually from Europe, rush to replace them.
Here's a partial list of US companies expected to sell $6.4B in arms to Taiwan.
- 60 Black Hawk helicopters ($3.1bn) Sikorsky aircraft division of United Technologies Corporation (CT)
- 114 Patriot missiles ($2.81bn) Raytheon (MA) and Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control (FL)
- Communication equipment ($340m)
- 2 Osprey mine-hunting ships ($105m) Northrop Grumman Ship Systems (MS) and Intermarine (GA)
- 12 Harpoon missiles ($37m) Boeing (MO)
Clinton Threatens China With Isolation Over Iran Sanctions
Clinton Threatens China With Isolation Over Iran Sanctions
China's Latest Call for Talks Enrages US
by Jason Ditz | AntiWar
Chinese officials again stressed their support for additional talks with Iran and objection to sanctions, sparking a surprising condemnation from US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.
In a long diatribe against both Iran and China, Clinton declared that it was time to "move away from the engagement track" and apply more sanctions against Iran. She warned that China would face diplomatic isolation and disruptions to its energy supply. Read more.
Dylan Ratigan: Economic Warfare Erupts
Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy
Yesterday the Senate approved legislation to increase the national borrowing limit to $1.9 Trillion. The vote was along party lines, raising the debt ceiling to $14.3 Trillion dollars. Watch Dylan Ratigan explain the ominous implications of that debt load for our national security.
Okinawa Town Elects Mayor Who Opposes U.S. Base
Okinawa Town Elects Mayor Who Opposes U.S. Base
By Associated Press | NY Times
Japan's prime minister said Monday he may nix a key military deal with Washington on relocating U.S. troops, after a local election in Okinawa showed that residents oppose any new Marine base in their region.
Residents of Nago elected a mayor who is staunchly against moving a base there from a larger city nearby -- plans which Washington considers fundamental to its troop realignment in the region. An agreement on the relocation was made under the previous government that lost power last year.
Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama said the results of Sunday's election reflected the will of the people, and that Japan would completely re-examine its accord with the U.S.
''The country will start from scratch on this issue and take responsibility to reach a conclusion by the end of May,'' he told reporters.
His government has repeatedly put off making a decision, risking a rift with the U.S., its main military ally, in the face of security concerns like North Korea's nuclear program and China's rising strength. Read more.
Haiti and China: A Tale of Two Earthquakes
Haiti and China: A Tale of Two Earthquakes
By Austin Ramzy | Yahoo! News | Submitted by Michael Munk | www.MichaelMunk.com
Looking for parallels to Haiti's catastrophe, many point to China. In May 2008, a magnitude 7.9 earthquake struck the southwestern province of Sichuan, pancaking schoolhouses, buildings and homes and killing at least 68,000 people. But the ferocity of the tremor and a huge death toll may be the only parallels between the two quake-stricken nations.
I went back to Sichuan six months after the catastrophe and was amazed at the speed of physical and economic recovery. In Dujiangyan, the largest city in the quake zone, the rubble and the tent cities had disappeared. The jumble of debris was replaced by piles of new bricks, lumber and other construction materials. There was a building boom across the region, and dozens of temporary villages were erected to house the five million people rendered homeless by the quake. The prefab housing was made out of blue aluminum siding lined with styrofoam insulation. They had cement floors and were arranged in neat rows in flat spots at the bases of the mountains. Conditions weren't luxurious, but the camps were clean and the housing dry and fairly warm. Read more.
U.S.-China Military Tensions Grow
U.S.-China Military Tensions Grow
Rick Rozoff | Stop NATO | Blog site
Even though the U.S. military budget is almost ten times that of China's (with a population more than four times as large) and Washington plans a record $708 billion defense budget for next year compared to Russia spending less than $40 billion last year for the same, China and Russia are portrayed as threats to the U.S. and its allies. China has no troops outside its borders; Russia has a small handful in its former territories in Abkhazia, Armenia, South Ossetia and Transdniester. The U.S. has hundreds of thousands of troops stationed in six continents.
While Gates was in charge of the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and responsible for almost half of international military spending he was offended that the world's most populous nation might desire to "deny others countries the ability to threaten it."
On December 23 of last year Raytheon Company announced that it had received a $1.1 billion contact with Taiwan for the purchase of 200 Patriot anti-ballistic missiles. In early January the U.S. Defense Department cleared the transaction "despite opposition from rival China, where a military official proposed sanctioning U.S. firms that sell arms to the island." [1]
The sale completes a $6.5 billion weapons package approved by the previous George W. Bush administration at the end of 2008. In the words of the Asia bureau chief of Defense News, "This is the last piece that Taiwan has been waiting on." [2]
"Peace Island" Petition To Stop US Military Missile Defense Presence to Provoke China
We, the undersigned global organizations and individuals, call upon the South Korean and US governments to cancel all plans to build a Navy base on Jeju Island. The base will destroy coral reefs that have been listed as world heritage environmental sites by the UNESCO Pand will destroy the fishing and way of life of the people.
The deployment of naval Aegis destroyers, outfitted with missile defense systems, will be used to surround and provoke China and will make Jeju Island a prime target.
Jeju is called the peace island and must remain free of provocative military bases.
To sign please reply to: email@example.com
Iran vs. China in Cyber War
Iran vs. China in Cyber War
By Adam Gonn | Media Line
Chinese hackers incapacitate Iranian government websites in retaliation for Iranian attacks.
Several Iranian state websites have been taken down by Chinese hackers in retaliation for Iranian attacks on China's biggest search engine.
The websites of Iran's supreme leader and president along with those of the ministries of defense and foreign affairs were all brought down by Chinese hackers, referring to themselves as the Honker Union, in revenge for an attack on China's Baidu site earlier this week.
An Iranian group, the Iranian Cyber Army, claimed responsibility for the sabotage of Baidu in response to Chinese web users' support for Iran's opposition movement.
"The solidarity and support for the people in Iran has been limited to statements," Iranian opposition blogger Potkin Azarmehr told The Media Line. "But this is the first cyberspace help from outside Iran on behalf of those who support the green movement."
"It's just more evidence to show how important cyberspace is to what's going on in Iran," he said. "This is probably the first revolution where it's not just a struggle on the streets but also across cyberspace." Read more.
Tomgram: Dilip Hiro, Iran, 1979 and 2010
Tomgram: Dilip Hiro, Iran, 1979 and 2010
The Obama administration's Iran policy is a riddle wrapped inside a conundrum folded into a pickle. So many signals are being sent in so many directions that it's a wonder the Iranians (or other involved parties) have any idea what's going on. Barack Obama came into office pledging to reach out diplomatically to Iran. In fact, the administration did so in only a half-hearted way, even as the president quickly began setting deadlines for the Iranians to respond (on their nuclear program) in a way Washington considered satisfactory -- or face further "crippling" sanctions. Now, the latest of these deadlines, January 1, 2010, has passed and a move towards new sanctions, especially against companies associated with Iran's Revolutionary Guard Corps, which controls significant parts of the country's economy, is evidently being prepared. But China, which holds the presidency of the Security Council for the month of January, recently rejected even a debate on the subject. Like the Russians, the Chinese are deeply involved in developing long-term energy relations with Iran, which means that no sanctions which might "cripple" that country's economy are likely to make it through the Security Council, no matter which country has the presidency....
Two Movements, Two Moments
Don't Bet on It...Yet
By Dilip Hiro
A short review of Iran's 31-year-old revolution is in order. In February 1979, the autocratic monarchy of the Shah collapsed when the country's economy ground to a halt due to strikes not only by the religiously observant merchants of the bazaar, but also by civil servants, factory employees, and (crucially) leftist oil workers. At the same time, the foundations of the modern state -- the armed forces, special forces, armed police, and intelligence agencies, as well as the state-controlled media -- cracked.
The street demonstrations, launched in October 1977 by Iranian intellectuals and professionals to protest human rights violations by SAVAK, the Shah's brutal secret police, lacked both focus and an overarching set of coherent demands articulated by a towering personality. That changed when Khomeini, a virulently anti-Shah ayatollah exiled to neighboring Iraq for 14 years, was drawn into the process in January 1978. From then on, the ranks of the protestors swelled exponentially.
Call for Signatures Protesting Navy Base Construction that will Destroy Coral Reefs In South Korea
By Bruce K. Gagnon, Coordinator
Global Network Against Weapons & Nuclear Power in Space
I try not to visit a place and then forget about the people and the struggle they are engaged in. Since my visit to Jeju Island, and the Gangjeong village last October, I have been closely following developments about the South Korean government's plan to build a Navy base where pristine coral reefs, fishing, and tangerine groves are now integral to the people's way of life.
U.S., NATO Expand Afghan War To Horn Of Africa And Indian Ocean
U.S., NATO Expand Afghan War To Horn Of Africa And Indian Ocean
Rick Rozoff | Stop NATO | Blog site
In parallel with the escalation of the war in South Asia - counterinsurgency operations in Afghanistan and drone missile attacks in Pakistan - the United States and its NATO allies have laid the groundwork for increased naval, air and ground operations in the Horn of Africa and the Gulf of Aden.
During the past month the U.S. has carried out deadly military strikes in Yemen: Bombing raids in the north and cruise missile attacks in the south of the nation. Washington has been accused of killing scores of civilians in the attacks in both parts of the country, executed before the December 25 Northwest Airlines incident that has been used to justify the earlier U.S. actions ex post facto. And, ominously, that has been exploited to pound a steady drumbeat of demands for expanded and even more direct military intervention.
The Pentagon's publicly disclosed military and security program for Yemen grew from $4.6 million in 2006 to $67 million last year. "That figure does not include covert, classified assistance that the United States has provided." [1]
In addition, "Under a new classified cooperation agreement, the U.S. would be able to fly cruise missiles, fighter jets or unmanned armed drones against targets in the country, but would remain publicly silent on its role in the airstrikes." [2]
Activist: Farmer Suicides In India Linked To Debt, Globalization
Activist: Farmer suicides in India linked to debt, globalization | CNN
Thousands of poor farmers in India have committed suicide over the past decade as changes in India's agricultural policy set off a widening spiral of debt and despair, one environmental activist said Tuesday.
"The farmer suicides started in 1997. That's when the corporate seed control started," Vandana Shiva told CNN's Christiane Amanpour. "And it's directly related to indebtedness, and indebtedness created by two factors linked to globalization."
For Shiva, who works with farming communities across India, those two factors were the ceding of control of the seed supply to the corporate chemical industry -- leading to increased production costs for already-struggling farmers -- as well as falling food prices in a global agricultural economy.
An estimated 200,000 farmers have taken their own lives in India over the past 13 years, according to Indian government statistics.
"The combination is unpayable debt, and it's the day the farmer is going to lose his land for chemicals and seeds, that is the day the farmer drinks pesticide," Shiva said. "And it's totally related to a negative economy, of an agriculture that costs more in production than the farmer can ever earn." Read more.
TomDispatch: The Second Decade: The World in 2020
Tom of TomDispatch writes:
Here, in a nutshell, is the world of 2020, as seen by Michael Klare, whose expertise in energy, scarce resources, and the politics of war is well known: "For now, expect the dragon ascendant, the eagle descending, the South rising, and the planet possibly trumping all of these." In other words, while the first decade of the twenty-first century still looked at least somewhat like the world of 1999, by 2020, this planet will have a genuinely different look to it. Momentous shifts in global power relations and a changing of the imperial guard, just now becoming apparent, will be far more pronounced by that year as new actors, new trends, new concerns, and new institutions dominate the global space.
Klare tracks all of this from China's rise to America's relative descent and the increasing power and energy of the global South. But that's only part of his canny, wide-ranging analysis of where we'll be a decade from now. The kicker is that "blowback," still a political concept today, will become a natural one by 2020. As Klare writes of the imperial and other politics of the planet to come: "Nonetheless, all of this is the norm of history, no matter how dramatic it may seem to us. Less normal -- and so the wild card of the second decade (and beyond) -- is intervention by the planet itself. Blowback, which we think of as a political phenomenon, will by 2020 have gained a natural component. Nature is poised to strike back in unpredictable ways whose effects could be unnerving and possibly devastating."
The "blowback effect" -- nature paying us back for our operations against her -- is a new concept that grounds this typically provocative and carefully thought out piece by Klare.From TomDispatch this afternoon: A New Year's look deep into the future, taking up the fate of China, the United States, the Global South, and nothing short of a planet ready to strike back by 2020 -- Michael T. Klare, "The Second Decade, The World in 2020" http://www.tomdispatch.com/archive/175186/
The Second Decade: The World in 2020
By Michael T. Klare
As the second decade of the twenty-first century begins, we find ourselves at one of those relatively rare moments in history when major power shifts become visible to all. If the first decade of the century witnessed profound changes, the world of 2009 nonetheless looked at least somewhat like the world of 1999 in certain fundamental respects: the United States remained the world's paramount military power, the dollar remained the world's dominant currency, and NATO remained its foremost military alliance, to name just three.
By the end of the second decade of this century, however, our world is likely to have a genuinely different look to it. Momentous shifts in global power relations and a changing of the imperial guard, just now becoming apparent, will be far more pronounced by 2020 as new actors, new trends, new concerns, and new institutions dominate the global space. Nonetheless, all of this is the norm of history, no matter how dramatic it may seem to us. Read more.
Announcing International Conference on Achieving A Nuclear Weapons & Missile Defense Free Asia
International Conference on Achieving A Nuclear Weapons and Missile Defense Free Asia
Nagpur, India | October 9-12, 2010
Click "Read more" for Agenda, arrangements, contacts!
U.S Kill 63 Civilians, 28 Children in Yemen Air Strikes
U.S Kill 63 Civilians, 28 Children in Yemen Air Strikes
By Press TV | Information Clearing House
Yemen's Houthi fighters say scores of civilians, including many children, have been killed in US air-raids in the southeast of the war-stricken Arab country.
The Shia fighters on Friday reported the deaths of 63 people, including some 28 children, in the southeastern province of Abyan.
Almost 90 people were also injured in the attacks by US warplanes in the village of Bakazam, they added.
Yemen's southern provinces have recently been the scene of US airstrikes which Washington claims to be aimed at uprooting an al-Qaeda cell operative in the Persian Gulf state. Read more.
The Week the IAEA Applied a Nuclear Double Standard
By Gareth Porter
WASHINGTON, Dec 19 (IPS) - In 2004, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) revealed that a member state had violated its Safeguards Agreement by carrying out covert uranium conversion and enrichment activities and plutonium experiments for more than two decades. The nature of certain of those enrichment activities, moreover, raised legitimate suspicions of interest in a nuclear weapons programme.
The state was found to have lied to the IAEA even when it began investigating these suspicious activities, claiming that its laser enrichment research did not involve any use of nuclear material.
If that sounds like a description of Iran's troubled relationship with the IAEA up to 2004, that's because it bears striking resemblance to it. In fact, however, it is a description of the deception of the IAEA by the government of South Korea.
"Why Are We in Afghanistan?" Debuts at US Labor Against the War Conference
Why Are We In Afghanistan? Trailer from Why Afghanistan? on Vimeo.
"Why Are We in Afghanistan?" Debuts at US Labor Against the War Conference By John Braxton
I just returned from the US Labor Against the War Assembly in Chicago, December 4-6. There were lots of high points, including the fact that oil workers from the U.S. got together with the heads of the oil unions in Iraq and Venezuela.
But for me the most exciting part was the release of a new 28-minute DVD entitled "Why Are We in Afghanistan?" I admit to being biased, as I participated in the early drafts of the DVD, but I think it will be a great tool for educating and mobilizing union members to oppose the escalation of the war in Afghanistan. Education about the facts and the costs of the war was the number one item in USLAW's Plan of Action; the hope is to show it at union meetings at all levels. There's also a ten-minute version.
We have our work cut out for us. Many people who opposed the Iraq war are torn about the war in Afghanistan. Unlike Iraq, Afghanistan was and is a haven for Al Qaeda cells. "Why Are We in Afghanistan?" helps to answer these doubts. Click "Read more."
A Sharp Turn Toward Another Vietnam
A sharp turn toward another Vietnam
By George McGovern | Washington Post
As a U.S. senator during the 1960s, I agonized over the badly mistaken war in Vietnam. After doing all I could to save our troops and the Vietnamese people from a senseless conflict, I finally took my case to the public in my presidential campaign in 1972. Speaking across the nation, I told audiences that the only upside of the tragedy in Vietnam was that its enormous cost in lives and dollars would keep any future administration from going down that road again.
I was wrong. Today, I am astounded at the Obama administration's decision to escalate the equally mistaken war in Afghanistan, and as I listen to our talented young president explain why he is adding 30,000 troops -- beyond the 21,000 he had added already -- I can only think: another Vietnam. I hope I am incorrect, but history tells me otherwise.
Presidents John Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson and Richard Nixon all believed that the best way to save the government in Saigon and defeat Ho Chi Minh and his Viet Cong insurgents was to send in U.S. troops. But the insurgency only grew stronger, even after we had more than 500,000 troops fighting and dying in Vietnam.
We have had tens of thousands of troops in Afghanistan for several years, and we have employed an even larger number of mercenaries (or "contractors," as they're called these days). As in Vietnam, the insurgent forces are stronger than ever, and the Afghan government is as corrupt as the one we backed in Saigon.
Why do we send young Americans to risk life and limb on behalf of such worthless regimes? The administration says we need to fight al-Qaeda in Afghanistan. But the major al-Qaeda forces are in Pakistan. Read more.
From Hiroshima to Gaza
From Hiroshima to Gaza
By Hisae Ogawa
The first time I met and had a chance to talk to Palestinian women was back in 1975, the United Nations International Women's Year. I was then working for the Women's International Democrat Federation (WIDF), one of the Non-Governmental Agencies accredited by the United Nations.
WIDF's head office was in East Berlin, the capitol of the German Democratic Republic. It had over 100 member groups all around the world and representatives that were called "secretaries" were sent from more than ten countries from Europe, Africa, Asia and America. At the time the General Secretary of WIDF was from Argentina and the President was from Australia. It was indeed an international place. But at the same time I was so disturbed to see the East Berliners suffered lack of freedom due to the wall dividing the city.
One of my co-workers was a young girl from Iraq. She was working hard trying to cover the whole issues in the Middle East. From her I learned what was happening in the Middle East.
It was through her that I got to know the Palestinian issue and made friends with Palestinian women. One day she brought some women from Palestine to the WIDF office. They were touring Europe to publicize their plight. They said Israel was doing the same things to Palestinian people as the Nazis had done to the Jewish people during the World War II.
U.S., NATO War In Afghanistan: Antecedents And Precedents
U.S., NATO War In Afghanistan: Antecedents And Precedents
Rick Rozoff | Stop NATO | Blog site
The U.S. (and Britain) began bombing the Afghan capital of Kabul on October 7, 2001 with Tomahawk cruise missiles launched from warships and submarines and bombs dropped from warplanes and shortly thereafter American special forces began ground operations, a task that has been conducted since by regular Army and Marine units. The bombing and the ground combat operations continue more than eight years later and both will be intensified to record levels in short order.
The combined U.S. and NATO forces would represent a staggering number, in excess of 150,000 soldiers. By way of comparison, as of September of this year there were approximately 120,000 U.S. troops in Iraq and only a small handful of other nations' personnel, those assigned to the NATO Training Mission - Iraq, remaining with them.
"Secretary Gates has made clear that the conflicts we're in should be at the very forefront of our agenda. He wants to make sure we're not giving up capabilities needed now for those needed for some unknown future conflict. He wants to make sure the Pentagon is truly on war footing....For the first time in decades, the political and economic stars are aligned for a fundamental overhaul of the way the Pentagon does business."
Over the past ten years citizens of the United States and other Western nations, and unfortunately most of the world, have become accustomed to Washington and its military allies in Europe and those appointed as armed outposts on the periphery of the "Euro-Atlantic community" engaging in armed aggression around the world.
Wars against Yugoslavia, Afghanistan and Iraq and lower profile military operations and surrogate campaigns in nations as diverse as Colombia, Yemen, the Philippines, Ivory Coast, Somalia, Chad, the Central African Republic, South Ossetia and elsewhere have become an unquestioned prerogative of the U.S. and its NATO partners. So much so that many have forgotten to consider how comparable actions have been or might be viewed if a non-Western nation attempted them.
Innocent Uighurs Still Detained at Guantánamo after Being Cleared for Release Since As Long Ago As 2003 Ask SC to Set Them Free
"To the founders of this republic, freedom was a national conviction. Today neither the President nor the Congress has the courage of that conviction. We urge the Court to remind us all of our ancient trust, and at last set these men free."
December 4, 2009, New York – Today, attorneys asked the Supreme Court to allow seven men who remain imprisoned at Guantánamo Bay despite being cleared for release to be released into the United States when there is no other remedy available. The men, Uighurs from the East Turkestan region of China, are represented by the Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR) and co-counsel Bingham McCutchen LLP, Kramer Levin Naftalis & Frankel LLP, Miller & Chevalier, Baker & McKenzie LLP, Reprieve and Elizabeth Gilson.
This will be the first time the Court hears a Guantánamo case since it decided the landmark cases brought by CCR and co-counsel, Boumediene v. Bush, in June 2008, and the first time the Obama administration will defend a Guantánamo case before the high court.
Said Sabin Willett, of Bingham McCutchen, lead attorney for the Uighur detainees:
"Today we have asked the Supreme Court to free Uighur clients who now pass their eighth year in the Guantanamo prison. The courts and the Defense Department have said they are neither enemies nor criminals. They fled from communism, and were taken in error. Companions live in Europe and Bermuda, and yet we imprison them still. These men are a living rebuke to America's boast to be a freedom-loving people.
US Naval Intelligence Views Iran's Naval Forces
By Steven Aftergood | Secrecy News
A new report (pdf) from the U.S. Office of Naval Intelligence describes Iran's naval order of battle, as well as the Iranian Navy's history, strategic options, and favored tactics.
"Today, Iran's naval forces protect Iranian waters and natural resources, especially Iran's petroleum-related assets and industries. Iranian maritime security operations guard against the smuggling of illegal goods (especially drugs) and immigrants, and protect against the poaching and stealing of fish in territorial waters."
"Additionally, Iran uses its naval forces for political ends such as naval diplomacy and strategic messaging. Most of all, Iranian naval forces are equipped to defend against perceived external threats. Public statements by Iranian leaders indicate that they would consider closing or controlling the Strait of Hormuz if provoked, thereby cutting off almost 30 percent of the world's oil supply."
The unclassified U.S. intelligence assessment was published on the Office of Naval Intelligence website, but last week it was abruptly withdrawn, along with another ONI report on China's navy. A copy of the report was obtained by Secrecy News. See "Iran's Naval Forces: From Guerilla (sic) Warfare to a Modern Naval Strategy," Fall 2009.
Bill Moyers Journal: LBJ's Path to War
Bill Moyers, of PBS' Bill Moyers Journal, began this week's program this way:
Our country wonders this weekend what is on President Obama's mind. He is apparently, about to bring months of deliberation to a close and answer General Stanley McChrystal's request for more troops in Afghanistan. When he finally announces how many, why, and at what cost, he will most likely have defined his presidency, for the consequences will be far-reaching and unpredictable. As I read and listen and wait with all of you for answers, I have been thinking about the mind of another president, Lyndon B. Johnson.
I was 30 years old, a White House Assistant, working on politics and domestic policy. I watched and listened as LBJ made his fateful decisions about Vietnam. He had been thrust into office by the murder of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963-- 46 years ago this weekend. And within hours of taking the oath of office was told that the situation in South Vietnam was far worse than he knew.
Less than four weeks before Kennedy's death, the South Vietnamese president had himself been assassinated in a coup by his generals, a coup the Kennedy Administration had encouraged.
South Vietnam was in chaos, and even as President Johnson tried to calm our own grieving country, in those first weeks in office, he received one briefing after another about the deteriorating situation in Southeast Asia. Read the transcript, watch the videos.
Missile Defense on the Peace Island
By Bruce K. Gagnon, firstname.lastname@example.com
I just got home from 3-weeks in South Korea. It was quite a trip.
During my last two days I was visiting Jeju Island (about 500 miles south of the Korean peninsula) which is recognized by UNESCO as being a place of world class environmental quality and one that hosts many endangered forms of corals and other sea life. To say it is a jewel would be an understatement.


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Willing to share a Mickey Bar?
I brought it with me everywhere on my Disney cruise Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: a Yankee in Virginia
Posts: 3,021
Eastern Magic Report - Nov 13-20 - Day 1
Could never understand why, with all these enthusiastic DIS'ers, there aren't more trip reports. Well, now that it's my turn, I think it can be a combination of exhaustion, trepidation at the piles of laundry and work waiting for us upon our return, or just not knowing how to put all those Magical experiences into a few words. Maybe all of the above, but I'll give it a shot:
The cast: Me, DH 41, DS 12 and DStwins age 7. This was the first cruise for all of us. Arrived at terminal 10:05, told to park and wait as the terminal wasn't open yet (people still disembarking). I remember from these boards that sometimes people are given misinformation, and after about 15 minutes of waiting I asked a different security person where folks just being dropped off have to go. He told us to drop our luggage under the white tent and go on in. Needless to say, once we got in there was a HUGE line for checking in. In truth, it went pretty fast. The kids explored the terminal, and DH gathered them when it was our turn at the check-in counter. After the check-in line, we moved into the next line, which is for waiting to board. I waited here while DH took the boys to the restroom and more exploring/tv watching. Goofy came in and the boys got their picture taken with him in front of the scale model of the ship. And...how bizarre..but how totally neat...it was to be greeted throughout the terminal by people who knew me from the boards, but whom I'd never met before! Hello DisFriends!!! It was so much fun picking my "friends" out of the crowd. TIP: No need to have alot of carry on luggage with you in the terminal. We had a small backpack for each boy (with their pins, autograph books, and disposable cameras), a rolling cooler, video camera bag, and a back pack with jewelry, cameras, other valuables. They opened up the ship at 11:30 (yayyyy!) and the boarding line moved very fast. They line up your family for an embarkation picture, announce your family name as you board, and there you are...standing in the middle of the Magic's beautiful atrium, all decorated for Christmas. It's a bit bewildering at that moment, you think "Now what do we do??? Where do we go???" And then a nice, smiling DCL worker will come up to assist you. TIP: Have a game plan worked out for your first day (but, of course, be flexible). It's so overwhelming once you board, I don't know how people who have never cruised would know what to do next if not for the DIS boards!!! I had booked the REAS, so didn't need to worry about the spa/Palo thing. We went right up to the Lab to register the boys for the club and the lab, and then head up to sunny deck 9 for lunch! I wanted to get started on sunny vacationing right away, so we ate outside at Topsiders, and then the boys (who were wearing their swim suits) hit the pools while waiting for the staterooms to open up. Note: Although I had read the pools get really crowded, one thing I hadn't factored into planning my perfect vacation was crowds, noise and stress. In truth, the kid pools were generally very crowded, the deck was rather loud (from both music and crowds) and it was disconcerting having my kids keep running off in three different directions!!! So, that leads me to my next tip... TIP: If you are travelling with children, don't expect to be sitting in a deck chair blissfully sipping a little umbrella cocktail upon embarkation. (I'm sure that was part of my pre-cruise fantasy!) There's a lot going on all the time all around you, it may take some time for you and your kids to fall into a comfortable routine. Okay, that probably wasn't so much a tip as a reality check! Around 1:30 we we were able to get into our staterooms (we had two Cat 6s, side by side on deck 5 aft). Loved the location - the aft elevators were fast, the kids clubs are on Deck 5 mid ship. TIP: When travelling by elevator, try to use the forward or aft elevators; the wait for the midship elevators is noticeably longer. At first I was taken aback by how tight the rooms were (remember, I'd never cruised before, so even though I "knew" staterooms are generally small...), but honestly, they were plenty big enough, and I loved them! Unfortunately, our rooms didn't have connecting doors, and that was a bit of a pain throughout the week. Unpacked a little, then I headed to my Dismeet while DH and boys continued to swim. We had a fairly large DIS crowd, so we planned to meet in the Promenade lounge. It was fun to put together names with faces, and Hannomom and her daughter, ChiChiHoney had put together fun goody bags for everyone for the Sail Away Party (and I think GrayFal had a hand in that too! Thanks y'all!!!). Time for the safety drill. Had this been a real emergency....I predict there would have been chaos! Hard to hear the drill leaders, but it was over quickly and time for the sail away party up on Deck 9. The music was too loud for the twins, so we watched from Deck 10 - had a great view! DS12 stayed down there on the dance floor, in the mix. We had early seating, so dressed for dinner - Parrot Cay. We had a table to ourselves, but were right next to a family of our DISfriends. We were SO tired at this point, having driven 12 hours the day before. BIG TIP: Definitely travel the day before embarkation if you are coming some distance!!! Less stress and less fatigue the day of sailing! We had packed a small bag with sail-day clothes, and left the bag and old clothes with the car. At dinner, one of the twins started complaining about a tummy ache (hence, he had the famous plate of "nothing" for dessert!). I was truly surprised at how much the ship was rocking, but chalked that up to my cruise inexperience. Turns out, the ship did rock noticably for the next 3 days, more than usual, according to the cruise staff. But I digress...back to the tummy ache...DS got back to the cabin and immediately got sick all over the place (as we tried to hurry him into the bathroom). Poor guy. Happily, he felt much better after that! (and, happily, we had two rooms! Hence we all slept in the other room that night!) I had taken bonine that day and the day before, and because of all the motion, I continued to take it the rest of the week. DH took some freebie motion sickness medicine that they were giving out at the health clinic on Deck 1. I gave the twins Benadryl that first night (after the sickness episode) and one other time during the cruise when they complained of feeling queasy. DS12 never needed anything. I'm pleased to report that we had no other sea sick episode for the rest of the cruise, despite all the rocking! With DS feeling better we went to Studio Sea to play a little Mickey Mania. DS 12 and I got to be contestants. I was a little embarrassed when he buzzed in to answer "What flag flies above the Swiss Family Treehouse?" and answered "England". but then the next family buzzed in and answered "Germany", so I felt better. I'm sure the audience was pulling their hair out!!! We came in second and all received little medallions (congrats to the winning team! they really knew their Disney trivia!!!). After that, the boys all checked into the Club/Lab for some meet and greet time, while DH and I unpacked. We passed on the opening show (heard it was great though! and I think we could've seen it on TV, but missed it). Soon it was time for bed for our very tired family.The boys settled into bed and caught some Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban on tv (we watched that about 100 times during the week, in bits and pieces whenever we were in the room). The best part of the cruise so far...DH was ecstatic about the shoe holder over the door trick!!! All our "stuff" went in there...disposable cameras, sun screen, watches, my Passporter, etc, etc. He thought this was the greatest thing since sliced bread (and it was!). Thus... TIP: Heed the "shoe holder over the door" tip!!!! Really helps keep things organized! Well, that's Day 1! Now, off to help the kids catch up on a week of school work! (shouldn't flubber-making count for some science credit???!!!) Click here for Day 2 Report - Day at Sea
My laughing place... Disneyland-1971, 76 Carib Beach'90 Dixie Landings/POR - '95, '04, '05, '06 SSR '07, AP 03-04
MNSSHP '04, '05, '06 MVMCP '07 and a few All Star quickies DCL Magic Nov '04 Eastern Trip Report Magic Wstrn Dbl Dip Aug '06 Trip Report, Wonder Dec '07 Trip Report Magic Dble Dip Aug '09 Trip Report Wonder Feb '10 DCL Dream July '11, Aug '13 Last edited by PoohJen; 11-22-2004 at 09:48 PM. |
Join Date: Mar 2002
Location: Connecticut
Posts: 2,893
Excellent report! I love your tips!
I always INTEND on doing trip reports, but I don't remember important details by the time I get home. Can't wait to read more! |
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I'll be drooling and dreaming
Never know how the pixie dust will fall Keep a look out for a white kia with a DCL antenna topper Join Date: May 2003
Location: Mt Washington Ky
Posts: 4,486
keep it up jen. it brings back the trip. cant wait to see the rest. we will also do a trip report
Certified pixie dust user
Join Date: Jul 2000
Location: North Carolina (Pirate Country)
Posts: 838
Dear PoohJen,
Just in the nick of time! I've been jonesin' for a good cruise report since I leave on Saturday (!!!) for my first ever cruise-your report is just what I need to get my thoughts in order! I really enjoy reading the tips especially since you and your family were first-time cruisers as well...it's always interesting to hear how the cruise rates in reality! I would especially enjoy hearing more about how your 12 year old son enjoyed the cruise as I will be cruising with my nephew as a belated 12th BD celebration...I'm a bit nervous since he's at such a hard age to please. What did your oldest son most enjoy and any tips to keeping those stubborn 12-year-olds happy onboard? Did he enjoy the Lab at all? (MY Dnephew isn't too happy about being kept out of the teen club...) Did he seem to enjoy himself all around? Since this is a birthday cruise, I really want to do all I can to make sure he enjoys himself! Thanks for letting me play "Twenty Questions" with you! Keep writing when you can...You're doing a great job! IVY
July 1986 (Disney Inn) April 1991 (CBR) Oct. 2000 (ASMo)-Matt's 12th BD! Sept. 2001 (ASMu) Oct./Nov. 2002 (POFQ/ASMu) -Moriah's 12th BD, 1st MNSSHP! May 2003 (CBR)-Mother's Day! Oct./Nov. 2003 (ASMu) Jan. 2004 (Pop Century) May 2004 (POFQ) August 2004 (POP)-Rode out Hurricane Charlie! Nov./Dec. 2004-First DCL 7-day Eastern cruise & Micah's 12th BD! Dec. 2004 (offsite)-First Christmas trip! August 2005 (OKW studio, offsite) Nov. 2007 (POP)-Thanksgiving! June 2010 (offsite)-1st Amtrak ride, Disney Y.E.S. Program! January 2012 (1 bedroom at BLT with rented points)-Niece's 1st trip; Molly's 1st trip (in utero)
Disney Planning Addict
My son was slimed at Nick Studios, but I have no proof since I left the camera in the hotel room! Join Date: Oct 2002
Location: somewhere really cold
Posts: 1,410
great trip report
looking forward to reading more
Join Date: Jan 2001
Location: Eastern Shore, MD
Posts: 167
Jen! We were at that Mickey Mania! The Swiss flag never crossed my mind either However, I did have Epcot figured out. Didn't you hear me trying to feed it to you??
We were at Parry Cay the first night also. We sat at table 15. Our servers were Roland and Beata. They were AWESOME! We had so much fun dancing at the Sail Away Party! So much energy! Unfortunately, after saving the ships horn as a suprise for 7 months, the taxi cab driver blew it on the way over from Ron Jon's. Go figure! We did the Golden Eagle and Doubloon sail in St. Thomas. Did you see that rainbow leaving St. Maarten??? Glad you had fun-we sure did!!
11/2001 Contemporary Tower Club, 10/17/2003 Polynesian-Samoa building, 5/15/2004 OKW!!! 10th Anniversary, 6/2004 Saratoga Springs is now our 2nd home!!, 11/13/2004 Cruisn' on the Magic!, 01/19/05 Hard Rock Hotel UO/IOA, 5/11/2005 Mommy & Daughter only trip Saratoga Springs , 1/22/2006 Mommy and son trip-AKL concierge, 6/2006 Family trip to Saratoga Springs and to swim with the Dolphins, 10/06 40th Birthday Girlfriend Weekend at Saratoga Springs, 7/08 Mommy & daughter trip to Saratoga Springs, 10/09 Highlight of 6 month long 40th celebration all girlfriends trip-Saratoga Springs, 10/10 Mommy & Daughter trip BWV, 7/11 Mom & Daughter trip Saratoga Springs , 7/12 Family trip Kidani Village , 10/13 Mom & Daughter trip Bay Lake Tower, 5/2014 no kids 20th Anniversary trip BWV 11/2014 President's Cup Lax tournament and MVMCP-Saratoga Springs |
I am REALLY over-vacationed this year ... well, EVERY year!
Join Date: Jan 2003
Location: The Hamptons, New York
Posts: 1,905
Jen, Jen, Jen........
The report is great!!!! I was the instigator of the head boppers but I must admit the Hannosmom's did ALL the work!!! (Thanks Linda and Sarah!) So when do we get to the best part......ME (just kidding ) Can't wait for day 2 Please play hookie in 2006 Met JenB on line going in - and realized her stateroom was down the hall from us - great door signs, JenB ...and can u believe Athene has all her pix developed and in an album????
"The Big Red Boat" Disney Cruise X 2 Wonder New Years Eve 2002/03 Magic Eastern 11/13/04 Magic Altered Western 12/03/05 Magic "Double Dip" Special Western 11/11/06 Magic Trans-Atlantic Repo 8/18/07 Wonder 12/6/07 "Surf & Turf" 9/18/10 Magic Westbound Trans-Atlantic "30th Anniversary" Cruise & 14 Day Hawaii October 2012 |
Willing to share a Mickey Bar?
I brought it with me everywhere on my Disney cruise Join Date: Jun 2004
Location: a Yankee in Virginia
Posts: 3,021
Ivy - DS had a great time on the cruise! He can't wait for our 2006 Western Special! I sent you a PM with more details.
JenB - I did see some of the audience itching at the Epcot question. I was ashamed of my lack of Disney knowledge on some of the questions ("I'm so unworthy"!) Next time I'll be better prepared, I promise. Wasn't it a fun cruise???!!!! Here's the link to Day 2 report!
My laughing place... Disneyland-1971, 76 Carib Beach'90 Dixie Landings/POR - '95, '04, '05, '06 SSR '07, AP 03-04
MNSSHP '04, '05, '06 MVMCP '07 and a few All Star quickies DCL Magic Nov '04 Eastern Trip Report Magic Wstrn Dbl Dip Aug '06 Trip Report, Wonder Dec '07 Trip Report Magic Dble Dip Aug '09 Trip Report Wonder Feb '10 DCL Dream July '11, Aug '13 |
DIS Veteran
Join Date: May 2004
Location: Albuquerque
Posts: 884
Great Report. We are going in May, and I have B/G twins who will be 5. So, it's great to see how your twins did, and what they enjoyed. Thanks for the report and tips. Can't wait to hear more !!
(DH) (ME, can't stay off DIS) (DD13) (DS13)Pixie Our 10yr. old twins take on the World for Spring Break-2010 http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2424485 |
Join Date: Jan 2004
Location: Rhode Island
Posts: 130
What a great sense of humor you have. I really enjoed your report and can't wait for the rest. I also love the Flubber as a science credit idea.
May All Your Dreams Come True
Question anything the facts don't support.
Join Date: Dec 2003
Location: Carmichael, California
Posts: 19,068
Re: Eastern Magic Report - Nov 13-20 - Day 1
Great report so far! You're making me feel like I'm there with you!
DVC Members since 2003: 7 Disney Cruises and Counting: AP holders
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I had a charter arms 22 stolen --model explorer 2-----in the year 2000 --recently got a call from the Sheriff and they told me they had recovered the pistol- NOW --I need a magazine for this pistol ---can you tell me where I could find one?
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Numrich I'd say...
The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. Thomas Jefferson
thanks for your help


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The Supreme Court in U.S. v. Windsor held that the federal Defense of Marriage Act's (DOMA) section defining marriage as between a man and woman is unconstitutional because it violates the Fifth Amendment's equal protection clause. Under Section 3 of DOMA a person could only be considered a spouse under federal law if they were married to a person of the opposite sex.
The term "spouse" appears several times in the Securities and Exchange Act Rules. Exchange Act Rule 10b5-2 provides a non-exclusive definition of circumstances in which a person has a duty of trust or confidence for purposes of the misappropriation theory of insider trading. The misappropriation theory expands the traditional view of insider trading to cases where a person misappropriates confidential information in breach of a duty owed to the source of the information.
Subsection (b)(3) of Rule 10b5-2 enumerates circumstances where this duty is presumed to exist and includes circumstances when "a person receives or obtains material nonpublic information from his or her spouse[.]" Because Rule 10b5-2's enumerated list is non-exclusive it's possible a duty of trust and confidence could be found between domestic partners regardless of the Windsor ruling. However, the expanded definition of spouse post-Windsor shifts the burden, creating a rebuttable presumption that such a duty exists between same-sex couples in states where they are legally married for the purposes of the misappropriation theory of insider trading.
There are other instances where the term spouse may be significant under the securities laws, including beneficial reporting requirements for Section 16 insiders and Audit Committee independence rules.
Topics: DOMA, Equal Protection, Fifth Amendment, Marriage, Same-Sex Marriage, SCOTUS, SEC, Securities Exchange Act, US v Windsor
Published In: Business Torts Updates, Civil Rights Updates, Constitutional Law Updates, Family Law Updates, Securities Updates
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Grand Plaza Ballroom
The elegant, column-free Grand Plaza Ballroom measures 1,404 square meters and can accommodate 1,500 persons in a banquet setting and may be divided into three smaller function rooms. The ballroom has repeatedly hosted events of importance by heads of state, multinational companies and other momentous occasions such as weddings, debuts and birthday celebrations. An expansive foyer and a balcony providing magnificent views of the bay may be enjoyed by guests.
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MCC Chosen to Join National Project Aimed at Improving Student Success (01/07/2013) ROCHESTER, N.Y. —Jan. 7, 2013— The Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) announced today that Monroe Community College is one of 10 community colleges—and the only New York school in this cohort—selected to join the Developing a Community College Student Roadmap Project .
### Media Contact: Janet Ekis Marketing and Community Relations 585-292-3023 firstname.lastname@example.com |


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Rowan Yarns
http://www.makeitcoats.com/en-gb/explore/our-brands/rowan-yarnsRowan is an internationally renowned design led luxury handknitting yarn company, whose reputation for inspirational and creative handknit design is unsurpassed, producing two pattern collections a year to support our portfolio of premium yarns.
Rowan is an ethically conscious brand, with an emphasis on creating luxury, premium yarns sourced from organic, natural fibres.
Established in 1978, the aim was to develop colourful weaving yarns. The focus quickly changed to handknit yarns and the rest is history.
Our ethos has always been to inspire and teach people the joy of knitting – whether you're a beginner or an advanced knitter, we offer an extensive Rowan workshop programme to suit you. Being a design-led handknit yarn company, we produce two seasonal collections a year, along with our acclaimed Rowan Magazine.
To discover the Rowan Yarns world click here.
Rowan Yarns Facebook activity
Congratulations to Antonella on her very first Rowan knit!! This fab colour block sweater is Heike from Mag 56.
We still get lots of enquiries about our very old yarns. Which old Rowan favourites do you have lurking in your stash?
Rowan Yarns shared Ute Rehner's photo.


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Vixen - Swing Bracket
Inroducing the new Vixen Fork Mount Swing Bracket MT-FM-3798image. This Vixen telescope accessory attaches to the Vixen BT80A (BT80M-A) binocular on its tripod.
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Orion - VersaGo II Altazimuth Telescope Mount*
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Vixen - 63mm DC Ring
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Zeiss - 8x32 Conquest HD Binoculars
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Swarovski - Modular Objective Lens - 85mm
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Swarovski - Modular Objective Lens - 65mm
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Swarovski - STX Spotting Scope Modular Zoom Eyepiece - Straight
The Swarovski Optik STX Spotting Scope Modular Zoom Eyepiece (Straight Viewing) is a wide angle eyepiece specifically engineered for the STX spotting scope series.
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Swarovski - ATX Spotting Scope Modular Zoom Eyepiece - Angled
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TeleVue - In-Travel Adapter*
This 2" to 1.25" adapter allows more in-travel for 1.25" eyepieces than Televue's "flat-top" or "high-hat" adapters. This adapter is designed to attach to the 1.25" eyepiece barrel and convert the eyepiece for use with a 2" focuser or diagonal. Its main applications are:
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Regular Price: $50.00
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Yet another product I would never have tried had it not been for the unfailingly excellent advice from the people on this site! While I'm not an across the board product snob, I do tend to be picky when it comes to foundation and powder. Not anymore! So many others have articulated the merits of this, so I'll try not to be repetitive.
Some things I particularly like about this:
1) The consistency: This is so finely milled; it's almost lighter than the consistency of baking soda, which means it's perfect for setting concealer. There's no danger of it settling into fine lines or appearing chalky. It actually reminds me of the setting powder in Laura Mercier's Undercover Pot (which is far more expensive than this). I've not tried it as a thickener for lashes before applying mascara, but I suspect it'd be perfect for that, too.
2) The fact that it truly is sheer. I like the consistency of Neutrogena's mineral powder, but I can't find a shade that matches my skin. That's not a problem with the E.L.F., as it's so fine that it dissipates into skin.
My only criticism would be with the packaging - while I do like the utility of the solid black box, trying to turn the square, chunky lid is a bit awkward. At the risk of sounding prissy, I swear I've nearly broken a nail twice on this thing. :o)
All that said: Great product, great value. Thanks again, MUA reviewers!
3 out of 3 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
This is a HG product for me! Works wonderfully! Feels so good on my face. Also a great setting powder for Concealer.
1 out of 1 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
I can't believe how long lasting the E.L.F HD Studio Powder. It definitely beats Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish powder by a tenfold.
Let's go the packaging first.
It is sturdy yet bulky. It doesn't have any whimsical designs..it's just a solid black box with a label on top. It is impossible to stash it inside your everyday cosmetic pouch because of it's big and angular shape.
It is definitely long lasting! I have combination to oily skin, combination on cold weather and oily skin in hot weather, and astounds me that it lasting half a day without touch up. Despite my hectic schedule, running to and fro from air conditioned room to the natural environment with sweat dripping. It stayed put like an obedient dog.
Unlike Make Up For Ever HD Microfinish powder, it doesn't settle down on large pores. It somehow make the face smooth and soft with minimized pores.
PS. This is the first time I gave a 5 star to a product so that means I'm definitely impressed by this.
7 out of 7 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
After reading all of the great reviews about ELF's HD powder, I had to try it for myself...after all, what's the most that I'd lose--$6 and an hour in Target? So why not?
The reviews are spot-on. This is a great setting powder. Coverage is light, not cakey or chalking. It goes on smoothly and blends wonderfully. It feels light and silky on my skin; I don't feel--or look--like I slapped on a whole bunch of powder. It sets my foundation without adding additional color, which is exactly what I'm looking for. Oil control is fair, but keep in mind that this isn't specifically billed as an oil-control product, so if you're very oily this might not work for you. I alternate using this with my Tarte Amazonian Clay powder.
My only complaint is the packaging. Yes, it's large which is nice as you're getting a lot of product for your money. The large lid is also great for swirling the brush in and tapping off the excess. However, the screen lets out the product too easily (a complete 180 from Tarte's one-hole powder dispenser). So it's easy for too much powder to end up on your brush or puff. I don't use the puff for applying the product; I use it to keep the powder in place when I travel. I use ELF's Kabuki brush (another awesome product) to apply the powder.
I will definitely repurchase this.
4 out of 4 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
This is a great product for the price you pay. Its a basic translucent powder that helps control oil and set your foundation. I dont care for the packaging very well but dont know how to make packaging better. I use the poof or whatever it is first and just pat the product on and then use my e.l.f. Kabuki to blend it and apply more to my T-zone. This does a good job of controlling oil, but isnt amazing. I will continue to purchase this instead of spending a fortune for nearly the same product in different packaging and a well known brand name. I love how you can apply a ton and it wont get cakey or anything.
Controls Oil
Not cakey
Smooth and blendable
Packaging is bulky and annoying
Doesnt fully control t-zone oil but what does?
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
This product is good, it's a translucent finishing powder, when used with the puff included it really locks in any face makeup, controls oil well, blurs imperfections and pores. It's not amazing but it's decent and cheap.
Finally, a five star product from e.l.f. This stuff is so neat. It really does "blur" lines and imperfections. I love it!
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
ELF never fails to amaze me. Seriously.
I needed a good setting powder, but I wasn't in the market for something with coverage, as my foundation and concealer do enough on their own. I just wanted something that would set the makeup in place and look flawless.
I've been using the HD powder from ELF for about six months now, maybe more, and I adore it. I use it over BB creams, foundation, tinted moisturizer, or just as an all-over dusting when I've done spot concealing and left my face otherwise bare. It's perfect.
My skin is quite oily and porous, and this keeps my face from looking like a cavernous Slip 'n Slide. It photographs beautifully as well.
I find the pouf that comes with it to be useless in terms of direct application, but it is great for dispensing the product. I keep it in the container to keep the powder from getting everywhere, and when I want to use it, I press the pouf against the top, turn the container upside down, and then pat my ELF kabuki brush onto the pouf, picking up what was dispensed. I find it gives me just the right amount of product and keeps messes at bay. But don't apply to the face with the pouf or you'll end up applying way too much.
The package itself is a tad bulky, but it looks pretty. Simple and matte black.
And the price is obviously fantastic. To me, paying $6 for something that in my experience works every bit as well as the MUFE HD powder is a no-brainer.
5 out of 5 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No
I really love this product! It leaves my skin super soft! Also I have HUGE pores which it has no problem covering. It is very nice for some oil control but I use a oil control primer also so I can't tell that much. This is a must buy.
This is a decent setting powder. I like that it is colorless. I feel like powders with color tend to change my foundation color. This feels super smooth going on, almost too smooth. It tends to make everything it touches slippery. I learned this the hard way! The packaging isn't the greatest and a lot came out at once and got all over my makeup case. When I went to pick up a brush it had some of this powder on the handle and it flew out of my hand into the toilet. Boo! Then a couple days later after I thought I had cleaned everything up, I picked up my mascara and the same thing happened. Ughhhhh. But I won't complain because the price is right and it works ok for me. This doesn't keep my super oily skin matte for long but then again nothing does. But I like that it's finely milled and I am able to touch up without looking cakey.
2 out of 2 people found this review helpful. Did you? Yes No


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Most Czech central bank board members see risks pointing to a need of "slightly" looser monetary policy by the middle of next year, minutes from their March 28 rate-setting meeting showed.
The domestic economy is more subdued than the central bank had forecast and weaker household demand signals deferred consumption caused by declining prices aside from food and fuels, the central bank, which targets inflation, said in the minutes posted on its website today.
After cutting borrowing costs three times last year to effectively zero, the Ceska Narodni Banka is in uncharted territory as policy makers debate whether to engage in currency interventions amid a record-long recession. The $217 billion economy is contracting as households and businesses spend less due to Europe's debt crisis and government austerity measures that trimmed the fiscal deficit more than planned last year.
"A majority of the board members agreed that the risks to the forecast were tilted to a need for slightly easier monetary conditions at the forecast horizon," according to the minutes. "It was said repeatedly that directly influencing the exchange rate is an effective monetary policy instrument in a small open economy in a situation where monetary policy rates are at technically zero."
At least one board member said that further discussion of monetary policy options available for responding to current and future shocks was "absolutely vital in the present macroeconomic situation," according to the minutes, which don't disclose opinions of individual policy makers expressed in the debate.
Rate Vote
All seven policy makers voted to leave the two-week repurchase rate at 0.05 percent for a third meeting on March 28, almost three-quarters of a percentage point less than the euro- area benchmark.
The inflation rate dropped to 1.7 percent in February from 1.9 percent in January, below the central bank's 2 percent target. Fourth-quarter gross domestic product shrank 0.2 percent from the previous three months, the fourth consecutive quarterly contraction. Household spending fell 3.5 percent in the full year of 2012, the first decline since 1998, the statistics office has said.
To contact the reporter on this story: Peter Laca in Prague at firstname.lastname@example.com
To contact the editor responsible for this story: Balazs Penz at firstname.lastname@example.com


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I am in love with everything about this garden, especially the fencing.
My garden has chicken wire with metal posts, very... Greeeenacres is the place to be, farrrm livin' is the life for me.
Sorry, couldn't help myself. Who remembers coming home from school watching that fun t.v. show?
Such a fun room. Lil Peanut and I could get our creative juices flowing in here easy breezy.
And these Abs!
The hubbs would be so happy.
A girl can dream...


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The Harrison County School Board approved a draft budget for the 2009-2010 school year at Tuesday evening's school board meeting.
"This is the worst it's been in the eight years I've been here," said Director of Finance Julie Asher.
Asher said she was meeting daily with Superintendent Andy Dotson and Assistant Superintendent DeeGee Fischer to come up with possible plans for cutting the school district's budget to coincide with possible additional funding cuts from the state.
Gov. Steve Beshear announced recently a campaign to encourage more Kentuckians to apply for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a refundable federal tax credit for low- and middle-income working individuals and families.
"The EITC is one of our best anti-poverty tools, and I want to make sure every eligible Kentuckian takes advantage of it and gets the money they deserve," Beshear said in announcing the campaign.
In just 20 months, 600,000 visitors from 60 countries will be flocking to the Bluegrass for the 2010 World Equestrian Games.
How will Harrison County participate?
That's a multi-faceted question that a contingent of citizens are beginning to answer.
Dr. Lori Garkovich of the University of Kentucky told about 30 people Monday that the group needs to concentrate on four questions:
•What can Harrison County offer in the way of a WOW experience?
Cynthiana resident LeAnn Moore was one of 68 seniors who took part in Berea College's Recognition Service for mid-year graduates on Dec. 7. The ceremony honors students expected to complete degree requirements by February 2009. Moore, who is majoring in German, is the daughter of Glen and Nancy Moore and granddaughter of Chuck Palmer of Cynthiana.
After 33 years on the job, Wanda Marsh celebrated her retirement as Harrison County Circuit Clerk Tuesday afternoon with coworkers, family and friends.
"It's been a good 33 years," said Marsh.
Marsh's last day in the circuit clerk office was Wednesday, Dec. 31.
"I've enjoyed my work," Marsh said. "I've enjoyed working with the attorneys and helping the public to the best of my ability."
Marsh began her career as a deputy clerk in 1975 under the direction of circuit clerk Zetta Hollar.
Four indictments were returned by a Harrison County grand jury on Tuesday during its first session of 2009.
Daniel Baron, 26, faces a four-count indictment for alleged events that occurred on Nov. 9, 2008.
According to the grand jury, Baron attempted to flee from police and disregarded directions to stop. He was also accused of driving under the influence of alcohol or other substance, which created a risk of death or injury to other persons.
Twenty-one-year-old Danyell Kearns is dead after an early Tuesday morning car collision on US 62 East, about 10 miles from Cynthiana.
At approximately 8:20 a.m., Kearns was traveling west in a 1995 white Pontiac Grand Am when she struck another vehicle and traveled down an embankment.
"It looks like she drove off the side of the road and over corrected," said Harrison County Deputy Sheriff and Accident Reconstruction Specialist Dean Hutchison.
Cynthiana city commissioners remain deadlocked in their attempt to choose a mayor pro-tem.
In a tied vote, with Commissioner Amanda Moore and Commissioner Mark Mattmiller voting for Mattmiller as mayor pro-tem, and Commissioner Jimmy New and Commissioner Jack Keith voting for Keith as mayor pro-tem, the commission adjourned Monday morning with the hope of coming to a decision at their next meeting on Jan. 13.
Harrison Memorial Hospital's new chief executive officer began work on Monday, but Sheila Currans didn't have any problems finding her way around the hospital.
Working at HMH since 1973, Currans served as a staff nurse, assistant head nurse, ICU/CCU head nurse and supervisor, Director of Quality, Director of Nursing, and Chief Operating Officer before filling the position left by Darwin Root, who retired on Jan. 2.
"I loved it all," Currans said about her previous nursing and management roles at HMH.
There will be balls and soirees. Throngs of people and small groups will all be gathering for one common goal... To welcome a new president and a new era.
On Jan. 20, just one day after the late Dr. Martin Luther King is honored with parades and speeches across the country, the United States will be honoring yet another historic figure.
America's first African American president will be inaugurated.
At noon on Tuesday, Jan. 20, Barack Obama will become the 44th president of the United States. He will be sworn in as he recites the 36-word oath:


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This issue is Green Shield Continuity #13, and went on sale on time. It also features the "Origins & Omens" promotion on the cover for April 2009 titles.
Story continued from Superman (DC, 2006 series) #684, and continues in Superman (DC, 2006 series) #685.
Story continues in Superman (DC, 2006 series) #686.
Ian discusses what is coming up in the Justice Society of America title. Ad for Superman #685. Appears on page 34 in this issue.
House ads for: Supergirl, Batman (Whatever Happened to the Caped Crusader?), Justice League of America action figures series 3, DC Comics Classics Library, World of New Krypton, Origins & Omens, and All Star Superman 2 hardcover. Appear in various places in this issue.


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dog walking
Go Walk Your Dog; It's Good for You and Your Pet
Walk the Dog!
Treat your canine—and yourself—to daily excursions.
By Lisa King
No matter what type of purebred or mixed breed dog you own, chances are he's not performing the duties he was bred for: herding sheep, chasing vermin into their burrows, tracking large game across open plains. Modern life offers few chances for dogs to do their intended work, so how can owners provide the exercise and stimulation their dogs need?
The answer is simple: Take your dog for a walk. A good long walk outside won't do you any harm. Since October began with Walk Your Dog Week, now is a good time to resolve to walk your dog more regularly.
The frequency and duration of these walks depends on many things, such as your dog's size, breed, health and age. A young Lab or Shepherd mix can handle much longer and more vigorous walks than an elderly Pug. Ask your veterinarian for guidance and pay attention to how tired your dog is getting. In general, a young athletic dog should be walked for 30 minutes to an hour once or twice a day, while a small lapdog can get plenty of exercise from a 20-minute walk. A dog who gets enough exercise is much less likely to exhibit nervous barking and destructive behavior around the house. Walk him at roughly the same time every day if possible.
Choose a secure collar and, if desired, a harness, plus a study nylon or leather leash. Walking in an urban area requires a shorter leash so you can prevent your dog from entangling other pedestrians, while walking in an open area allows you to use a longer leash. A retractable leash can work well for both these scenarios.
Before leaving the house, provide your dog with proper identification. A tag with the dog's name and your phone number on it plus microchipping in case his collar is lost are the ideal combination.
To make the walk more pleasant for both of you, teach your dog to heal rather than drag you along behind. If your dog persists at pulling on the leash, try using a head halter, which redirects his efforts so he can't pull you.
Find interesting places for the two of you to walk. Your dog will find plenty of interesting smells and sights in your neighborhood, but once in a while he should get to walk someplace new, such as a park, nature trail, lake or beach. Check first to make sure dogs are allowed at the location you plan to visit. If your destination is a dog park or dog beach, make sure your dog is comfortable around other dogs before venturing out.
Walks are when many dogs relieve themselves, especially if they're apartment dwellers. Besides marking new and old territories with urine, they're bound to defecate while on walks. Whether you're on a mountain trail, on a city street or in your own front yard, pick up your dog's solid waste and discard it appropriately. Carry some type of baggies with you on every walk.
If the walk will be a long one, bring water for both you and your dog, especially in hot weather. Collapsible bowls, soft foldable bowls, receptacles that clip onto human water bottles and many other types of drinking containers are available at pet supply stores. Bring along a pocket full of your dog's favorite treats, too, to reward good behavior.
Having a dog and walking him regularly not only gives you both much-needed exercise, it facilitates bonding. Dogs look forward with great anticipation to their walks and to spending time exploring the world with their favorite human.
About the Author: Lisa King is a freelance writer living in Southern California. She is the former managing editor of Pet Product News International, Dogs USA and Natural Dog magazines. Lisa is also the author of the well-received murder mystery novel "Death in a Wine Dark Sea" and the recently released "Vulture au Vin."
Dog Walking Etiquette
Dog Walking Etiquette
By Stacy Mantle
Walk Your Dog Each Day
In a world where many different species enjoy walking each day, it's important to understand the rules of the road for canines. The rules below are not hard and fast, they aren't legally binding and they aren't meant to be regulated. They are intended as good "common sense" rules for any pets who enjoy walks.
1. Respect personal space. Whether you're on a trailhead or at the dog park, there are people who will not love your dog. Even fellow dog lovers are hesitant around other breeds. Some small-breed lovers will be in complete fear of your large-breed dog no matter how friendly, and vice versa. Never force your dog on another person or animal.
Teach your pet to keep his nose to himself. People don't generally like to be sniffed—particularly if they are running or walking or just enjoying the day. Keep your pet under control and never allow her to pull at the leash in search of a quick sniff of another dog or person.
2. Leashes are required. Besides being good common sense, leashes are required by law in nearly every state and that includes state and national forests. It doesn't matter if your dog is friendly, it doesn't matter if your dog always listens. If any other person views your pet as a threat, they can legally defend themselves, which can lead to tragic results.
Keep your leash short. This can help eliminate problems with tangled leashes, territorial sidewalk users and other such problems. The only exception to using a leash is in a designated off-leash area.
3. Clean up after your pet. You should not allow your pet to urinate or defecate in a person's yard, a golf course or in a public park. Urine can leave ugly brown spots and create problems for a property owner. Look for a public, remote area for your pet to do her business. If an accident does happen, be courteous and clean up after your pet. It's the law in most municipalities and it makes for good neighbors.
4. Not all dogs are friendly. You should never assume that because your pets are friendly, other people's pets are friendly, too. Don't allow your pet to approach other animals without an invitation. You never know how controlled the other animal may be.
5. Be respectful of other species. Cats are going out on walks more frequently, as are birds, ferrets and even other lesser-known and more unusual species. This is why you should never allow or encourage your dog to chase any type of animal. Your dog may interpret a cat to be a squirrel, leading to disastrous consequences. Train your pets to recognize and be receptive to other species.
6. Announce your arrival. When running or walking with your dog, it's always polite to inform those ahead of you that you're coming up behind. This can be done with a simple "Behind you" or "To your left" announcement, letting them know you're planning to pass. This is particularly important when using public walkways.
7. Teach children. Nearly 4.5 million people are bitten by dogs every year and more than 72 percent of those are children. We have to begin educating kids (even other people's children) on the proper way to approach an animal. This begins with you and your dog. Let parents and children know they need to approach slowly, ask to pet your dog and always keep their faces away from the dog.
8. Elevators and enclosed areas. When in an elevator or other enclosed area of a public building, your dog should move to the back corner of the elevator and sit quietly near you as people get on and off. Keep your pet on a short leash, as some people have a real fear of being in an elevator with a dog.
9. Stop and sit at crosswalks. Your dog should always stop before a crosswalk and sit quietly beside you. While not all dogs can be trained to do this, it's important to work up to it. Not only that, it could save their lives if they ever got loose.
10. The five training commands. Come, drop, leave it, heel and sit-stay are the five basic commands every pet should know before walking out the door. If your pets cannot do these things, you should focus your training until they can.
Owning a pet is about being a responsible pet owner. You are responsible for teaching your pets good etiquette as they will not learn from others. Together we can make the world a better place for our animals and other humans.
About the Author: Stacy Mantle is the founder of PetsWeekly.com and the bestselling author of "Shepherd's Moon." Learn more great tips for living with animals by visiting PetsWeekly.com or get to know a little more about the author at www.StacyMantle.com


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Sun, Oct 20, 13 at 13:34
Do you have suggestions for good loquat cultivars for NW Florida, and what varieties are good for grafting? Which are good root stock? |
Follow-Up Postings:
I live inland central FL and grow a seedling loquat, I'm lucky its very good tasting and grew very quickly. I get lots of fruits every year. I'm sorry I know nothing about root stock and grafting... Below is a link that might help... |
Here is a link that might be useful: Loquats
- Posted by AmberBrook 9 (My Page) on Tue, Oct 22, 13 at 17:19
Here's a good link that has a list of loquat varieties. I think you can just use any loquat seedling for rootstock. |
Here is a link that might be useful: Loquat varieties
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More People Are Buying Yoga Clothes Than Actually Doing Yoga
7 Ways To Look Younger Now
Are you tired of feeling older than you actually are? People tell you all the time how good you look but you just don't feel that way. Would you like to feel as young as you look? Simple changes can be made to your daily life to help you feel younger and look great. They don't have to be dramatic changes but even the slightest change could make a world of difference.
Eat Without Getting Fat
Now that I have your attention, I want to share with you some thoughts about getting rid of fat. In a new Gallup poll, obesity is rising.


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Common English Bible (CEB) | New International Version (NIV) |
36 If the created order should vanish from my sight, declares the LORD, only then would Israel's descendants ever stop being a nation before me. | 36 "Only if these decrees vanish from my sight," declares the LORD, "will the descendants of Israel ever cease to be a nation before me." |
Copyright © 2011 Common English Bible (Common English Bible) | Scripture quoted by permission. Quotations designated (NIV) are from THE HOLY BIBLE: NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®. NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 by Biblica. All rights reserved worldwide. (New International Version Bible Online) |


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i am looking for a duck hunting/pheasant hunting dog that does not shed and is not super expensive
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Pheasant, I like English pointers. I don't hunt alot of duck, so I can't comment. I don't think they shed a lot, but they may be pricey.
Try Chesapeake Bay Retriever. I have seen them in field trials and duck hunting. They are not cheap. No good hunting dog is. It is in the breeding, unless you are very lucky. Also I think you can get duck at the grocery.
"...from my cold dead hands" Charlton Heston & NRA "He which hath no stomach to this fight,/ Let him depart." Henry V
The OP has unreasonable expectations. A dog that is bred to hunt pheasants isn't going to do well retrieving ducks. You can't expect a retriever to go out and point birds.
^^And he has made several threads asking pretty much the same questions. IMO the OP does not have much experience with dogs, (in another thread he asks if Labs shed). Training a hunting dog is not easy and if someone has no experience they should seek out and heed the advice of a good trainer, otherwise the OP is just setting himself for disappointment. I am all for hunting dogs and have hunted with them in the past (black and tans, labs and pointers). However those were all dogs that were owned and trained by friends. I have owned dogs all my life, from Labs to Danes to St. Bernard's and all sorts of mixed breeds. They have all been family pets, I am not sure I could do the work involved in training a dog to hunt. It really is a huge commitment.
To the op..... How old are you? Do you have any experience whatsoever with firearms, animals, bows? No disrespect meant, just all your questions are the same and lack knowledge, which is fine. That's why we are here.
Oh dern.... Revelation 19:11 And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.


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Dan Smith ups the ante vocally, turning the song into an eerily pretty mid-tempo ballad — complete with strings. They even bring Billy Ray Cyrus' "Achy Breaky Heart" into the mix, making this version of "We Can't Stop" a strangely poignant must-hear. Watch in awe up top.
Is this version better than the original? Let us know in the comments below.