Charles, when will you put up some video of YOU jammin!

American Jazz is big in Japan (and Europe). We saw Pancho Sanchez at the Tokyo Blue Note last year. Great memories.

First the cycling, then the modern jazz!?!?

Charles, you're acting like this is your blog with your biases in it.

What gives you the right?

/s

Should I point it out?

OT But WTF?

JOHN MCCAIN: “Now we’ve got the cables. We’ve got talk radio. We’ve got the bloggers. I hate the bloggers. We’ve got all kinds of sources of information.” [Link: www.crooksandliars.com...]

re: #1 Macker

Should I point it out?

re: #3 zombie

You better not turn this into another ID thread!

/snicker

re: #2 Roentgen

American Jazz is big in Japan (and Europe). We saw Pancho Sanchez at the Tokyo Blue Note last year. Great memories.

if I was in Japan I wouldn't be going to see jazz, American or otherwise! I'd be at the indy rock clubs, for sure.

Sorry to change the subject, but I have been busy with reserve stuff, so I have missed most of the last 1-2 weeks. Anybody been banned or any controversial subjects ( other than intelligent design-Yawn- just my opinion)? Basically I am looking for juicy gossip and such.

re: #5 ec marm

OT But WTF?

That's from 7 months ago. Old news.

re: #8 zombie

if I was in Japan I wouldn't be going to see jazz, American or otherwise! I'd be at the indy rock clubs, for sure.

Sure. I also wanted to hit a karaoke club, to see Japan they way many of her citizens do, but my peeps wouldn't go for it. Next time.

That was fascinating. I really liked the the section about a minute and a half in, on the lower end of the musical scale. That was cool.

Whether or not McCain hates the bloggers, we're going to get him elected.

Actually, two things:

a. He was joking.
b. To the extent that he does "hate the bloggers," he's undoubtedly talking about the powerful lefty bloggers who get most of the press attention, and who bash McCain a hundred times more than we do.

G-D I hate listening to a baseball game down by ESPN with Morgan and the other old guy.

I've been out riding my cheapo bike around on this beautiful Sunday afternoon. It's nice to just jump on and ride without worrying about shoes and clothes, although you really miss the clip-on pedals at first.

Huh. Just watched that McCain clip - yeah, he was joking. But with a little bit of truth in it, no doubt.

re: #8 zombie

Many Japanese musicians pride themselves on their mastery of American Jazz. One of the best swing bands I've ever heard (and easily the best I've heard in person) is in Kansai.

re: #13 zombie

Whether or not McCain hates the bloggers, we're going to get him elected.

Actually, two things:

a. He was joking.
b. To the extent that he does "hate the bloggers," he's undoubtedly talking about the powerful lefty bloggers who get most of the press attention, and who bash McCain a hundred times more than we do.

Sometimes I doubt he is joking and he better get his act in order. Stop talking about Obama is so bright and qualified, and how he wants to run a " dignified" campaign.

re: #5 ec marm

I don't think he means us.

Charles....I have been meaning to ask. Do you make a living at this blog or do you have a 9 to 5 like the rest of us. Can one donate to your site?

re: #20 Big Steve

Charles....I have been meaning to ask. Do you make a living at this blog or do you have a 9 to 5 like the rest of us. Can one donate to your site?

.
If you got money burning a hole in your pocket, you can send it to me.

re: #19 lone_wolf_in_illinois

One thing that leaves me cool about Sen. McCain is what you just outlined - sometimes it is difficult to know what he really thinks. I suppose that makes him no different than most politicians, but McCain does have a way of speaking metaphorically or hyperbolically at times.

re: #21 Nevergiveup

.
If you got money burning a hole in your pocket, you can send it to me.

Say something interesting and I might!

re: #20 Big Steve

If our Lizard Leader ever divulged that information, he/she would have to kill you....

re: #20 Big Steve

Click the flippy triangle for tools.

re: #10 zombie

That's from 7 months ago. Old news.

Funny that one of those hated bloggers created a new entry yesterday. Maybe the video just appeared on YuckTube. Crooks & Liars - are they lefties?

re: #23 Big Steve

Say something interesting and I might!

Interesting-hum-you mistake me for someone like A-Rod who has his head up his ass. But I digress. Well I am a weird bird- 53 years old and trying to go on active duty.

By the way, McCain is right to be wary of blogs. All politicians should be.

re: #28 Charles

By the way, McCain is right to be wary of blogs. All politicians should be.

Maybe, but not disrespectful of his base!

re: #20 Big Steve

Charles....I have been meaning to ask. Do you make a living at this blog or do you have a 9 to 5 like the rest of us. Can one donate to your site?

We need more Big Guys like Big Steve around here!

re: #27 Nevergiveup

Tough luck for you because I always hated people in the class of '75. Good luck on going active. I toured in my 30's (1st Gulf War). What branch are you going for?

re: #28 Charles

Except this one......

re: #9 Nevergiveup

Sorry to change the subject, but I have been busy with reserve stuff, so I have missed most of the last 1-2 weeks. Anybody been banned or any controversial subjects ( other than intelligent design-Yawn- just my opinion)? Basically I am looking for juicy gossip and such.

Well, it has been confirmed that Obama drowns a sack of puppies every week. It has been all over the media. It is just so damn shocking.
Alright, it's not true , but I think it just might be a cover up.

re: #31 Big Steve

Tough luck for you because I always hated people in the class of '75. Good luck on going active. I toured in my 30's (1st Gulf War). What branch are you going for?

I am in the Navy-Active Reserve ( so I may go active with out asking - at the President's discretion and all). I am a Doc so that is why they want and would take an old fart like me. But to really go active, I would want to get my life and finances in order.

re: #29 Nevergiveup

Maybe, but not disrespectful of his base!

Uh huh. That is what is so infuriating about him. He believes that somehow ,we are his moral & intellectual lessers. 'Just STFU & vote for me."

re: #4 Roentgen

Should I point it out?

I think I have an idea too. - but not confirmed!

Funniest picture of the day:

Segway commandos

If there's anything that strikes fear in the hearts of terrorists, it's Segway-mounted paramilitary policemen. Here they roll into action at speeds exceeding 4 mph while drilling for the Beijing Olympics in Jinan.

re: #28 Charles

By the way, McCain is right to be wary of blogs. All politicians should be.

I just wish he'd be more wary of the party across the aisle.

Charles....I did check out the flippy triangle for donations and went to the Amazon site to see how it worked. See below.....have you gone Euro on us? Is "littlegreenfutbols" legit and will it get to you?

You are paying: Charles Johnson (littlegreenfutbols)

Privacy Notice: No information about you will be shared with the recipient. Learn more about privacy.

Anyone seen/ posted this yet?

A three-foot-tall tablet with 87 lines of Hebrew that scholars believe dates from the decades just before the birth of Jesus...may speak of a messiah who will rise from the dead after three days.

If such a messianic description really is there, it will contribute to a developing re-evaluation of both popular and scholarly views of Jesus, since it suggests that the story of his death and resurrection was not unique but part of a recognized Jewish tradition at the time.

The tablet, probably found near the Dead Sea in Jordan according to some scholars who have studied it, is a rare example of a stone with ink writings from that era — in essence, a Dead Sea Scroll on stone.

re: #37 zombie

Funniest picture of the day:

Segway commandos

I'd like to see the reasoning behind putting them on those.

re: #39 Big Steve

Charles....I did check out the flippy triangle for donations and went to the Amazon site to see how it worked. See below.....have you gone Euro on us? Is "littlegreenfutbols" legit and will it get to you?

You are paying: Charles Johnson (littlegreenfutbols)

Privacy Notice: No information about you will be shared with the recipient. Learn more about privacy.

Thanks, Big Steve - that is my real account. (It's a sort of in-joke. James Lileks once referred to LGF that way back in the day.)

re: #41 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

I'd like to see the reasoning behind putting them on those.

They got a bulk purchase discount.

re: #38 Sharmuta

The party across the aisle is in a big mess. It is just sinking in to them that they have nominated a rookie, who has substantial problems with key constituents and who may be one fumble away from abandonment.

re: #15 Charles

The only time I ever had a bad accident on a bike involved those blasted clips over the shoes.

Granted, it was also my brother's bike, and about four inches too big for me, but I still blame the pedal stirrups.

re: #42 Charles

Ah an insider joke....thanks

re: #40 transient

Anyone seen/ posted this yet?

I saw it. Very interesting. Just think of the great things they have not found yet. I hope I am alive to see some of them.

hi folks, I threw together some personal opinons today about a Israeli hit on Iran. I've emailed this to a couple folks' blogs that guest post on, but if you want to post it on yours, go for it. My blogging email for any feedback is included at the bottom of this:

When will Israel hit the Iranian nuclear program?

I believe that the Israelis will bomb Iran's nuclear weapons program soon. By 'soon' I mean between now and October. Israel views the Iranian bomb as a threat to it's very existence. Israel has only 2 options in dealing with the Iranian bomb: either stop the program, or live life every day with the threat of being wiped off the face of the earth. Living life like that is not viable. I believe the Israelis will launch a attack by themselves. The Israelis don't have to hit every single target that is part of the Iranian nuclear program to succeed. If they inflict enough damage and /or kill enough nuclear technicians to set the Iran bomb project back, that will be a win for them. I don't believe that the US will actively participate in the bombing strikes. If the US is involved it will be on the sidelines in the form of Tanker/Electronic Warfare/Jamming support. The main US participation will be in the form of the US giving overflight rights to the IAF as the strike package flies over Iraqi airspace.
What could be the possible Iranian reactions? That depends honestly on a lot of factors that I'll admit I'm not knowledgeable enough to talk about, but here I go:

The Iranians have publicly stated that if attacked, they will close down the Straits of Hormuz. Yes, the Straits are a pretty narrow chokepoint, but to totally close it down and prevent shipping to exit/enter the Gulf is still a challenge. Their navy is a joke. When the Iranian navy went up against the US Navy in the late 1980's (Operation Preying Mantis) Their navy was soundly thrashed. Today , they have a few ex-Russian Kilo-class subs, but I don't think the overall material condition of the subs and also their crews's training standards are that high. They do have a lot of small fast speedboats . If they load one up with explosives and suicide it into a tanker that will probably kill a tanker. They could get very lucky and sink a tanker right in the straits, but even that outcome will hurt the Iranians too. After all, Iran exports oil out of the gulf just like everybody else. Since the only way the Iranians make money is by exporting oil, their economy will get crushed if the straits are blocked for a long period of time. The Iranians have in the past dumped contact mines into the gulf and damaged a few tankers, but again, if the Iranians succeed with the mines, their own economy takes a hit too.

Since it looks like any Iranian attempt to shut down the Straits will hurt them just as much as everyone else, what other cards can the Iranians play? Iran possesses a number of ground missiles with the range to hit targets across the gulf. they could hit US bases in the gulf. However, we have anti-missile systems like Patriot to handle this threat. Besides, if one of those missiles goes off target and say, instead hits downtown Kuwait City, then the Iranians may have to deal with Israel airstrikes against them turning into other gulf nations taking up arms against them too.


to be continued

Charles; stumbled across a link posted by user;"Drained Brain"
. Not lgf material.

re: #43 opnion

They got a bulk purchase discount.

Oh, well in that case, it make perfect se....

WAIT A SEC!

Sounds like the action sequence background music in "Rambo, First Blood Part 1".

re: #44 experiencedtraveller

Did you see the spinoff today about their convention? They're worried that the mismanagement of the convention will reflect on the party. Gee- ya think?!

OT:
I just spent an hour looking back at the first couple days' posts after 9/11 - I wasn't around here then, and I just had to know. Chilled me to the bone.

Charles, the pain you must have felt during your own metamorphosis was palpable. I admire you all the more for it.

re: #37 zombie

Funniest picture of the day:

Segway commandos

And here's another photo of the dreaded Chinese Segway commandos!

The best course of action the Iranians have is doing something against Israel. They can use their surrogates in Syria and Hezbollah to launch terror attacks in Israel and/or step up the never-ending rocket strikes on Israeli border communities. I don't think the Syrians would launch conventional military attacks across the Golan. But, if they did, the Syrian Military would have a couple very exciting days before getting wiped out. If the Syrians did throw in with the Iranians, the end result would be Merkavas parked on the lawn of the Syrian presidential palace in Damascus and baby Assad taking a one-way flight to Tehran (provided he hadn't already been bombed or his presidential jet smoked out of the sky as he attempted to flee).


Another factor to consider in any Iranian reaction to airstrikes on it's nuclear facility is the Iranian national will to respond to airstrikes. Yes , the Iran nuke program is considered a point of pride by the Iranian people. but, if the Iranian people realize that their nuke program is hurting them they will probably drop support for it. There is already high Inflation and Unemployment along with low Economic growth. The Iranian leadership is already unpopular because of the domestic economic issues, if their desire to possess nukes causes a great deal of national pain...... well, Iran is a country that has had a revolution, nothing says the people can't have a second one to throw out the religious leadership. Granted, Iran is a police state, so a popular overthrow of the government is unlikely but not impossible. There are way too many possibilities to consider when thinking about a popular overthrow of the government (for example, would the Iranian military back up the government or side with the people?) to write about right now. but I do think a popular overthrow of the religious leadership is possible.
What would a attack on Iran's nuclear program mean for the rest of the world? The price of oil will shoot up, that is a given. I could see Crude Oil trading at about $200/barrel in the aftermath of any strike on Iran. Gold and Silver would also shoot higher (for the purposes of full disclosure, I'm a self-employed day-trader, I currently have small buy positions in both gold and silver because of the possibility of strikes on Iran). I think the price of Crude would depend on the amount and type of airstrikes against Iran. Again, this involves too many variables to consider (if the airstrikes are a single day's worth of airstrikes versus a days long campaign, if only Iranian nuke program targets are hit , instead of strikes that include Iranian military targets, if Syria decides to throw down with Iran, etc.).

One other possibility to consider is the effect a strike against Iranian Nuclear assets would have on the coming US presidential contest in November. Once more, there are too many possibilities to write about, but I think the aistrikes would hurt the Obama campaign and the Dems. Why? they stand together against any possibility of domestic oil drilling here. If OIl goes to $200/barrel with the resulting rise in domestic gas prices this will kill any Dem chances to win in November.



To wrap things up, here is where I see things. I believe the Israelis will hit the Iranian Nuclear weapons program soon, within the next few months. Crude Oil prices will move higher in the aftermath of any strikes. Their exact rise and how long they stay at elevated levels involve too many probabilities to figure out fully. Other commodity prices, especially, Gold and Silver will rise also. The range of possibilities in the aftermath of airstrikes goes from no Iranian reaction all the way to a regional war that could include the use of WMD'S. Sorry, this is the best I can do for outcomes. There are just too many things that need to be considered when pondering the aftermath of airstrikes. If you have any thoughts, questions, gripes, etc. feel free to email me at chicagodudewhotrades@gmail.com


Thanks for your time,
CDWT

re: #52 Sharmuta

Didn't see the spin-off but spent a few hours with a Democratic county chairman (Hillary man) who is aghast at the reality.

re: #15 Charles

I've been out riding my cheapo bike around on this beautiful Sunday afternoon. It's nice to just jump on and ride without worrying about shoes and clothes, although you really miss the clip-on pedals at first.

I would like to know what you consider a "cheap" bike? I remember back in the day that we all longed for a Schwinn Varsity. At over $250 dollars it was a bit rich for me. Too bad my bike riding days are over.

re: #56 experiencedtraveller

Here's the spinoff.

re: #17 freetoken

Many Japanese musicians pride themselves on their mastery of American Jazz. One of the best swing bands I've ever heard (and easily the best I've heard in person) is in Kansai.

Did they play "Dust in the wind"?

re: #54 Macker

And here's another photo of the dreaded Chinese Segway commandos!

I dont know, I think the flame thrower demonstration (3rd slide) for dealing with rioters might be a tad more effective as a detterent.

Groucho: "When you come to tune, play it."

Chico: "I can't think of the ending."

Groucho: "That's funny. That's all I can think about."

re: #48 chicagodudewhotrades

On the closing of the straits of Hormuz - complete blockage isn't necessary to achieve Iran's tactical goal. Any tanker owner will not put their (very expensive) assets at risk of being sunk. Remember, insurance companies normally do not cover "acts of war." If Iran merely openly shoots at tankers might be enough to drop the oil exports dramatically.

Also, isn't the conventional wisdom that Israel won't do anything before the US election?

re: #48 chicagodudewhotrades

Very, very thought-provoking stuff. Thanks.

re: #57 Truck Monkey

I would like to know what you consider a "cheap" bike? I remember back in the day that we all longed for a Schwinn Varsity. At over $250 dollars it was a bit rich for me. Too bad my bike riding days are over.

Paid a little over $200 for last year's Schwinn Voyageur cyclocross bike. That's about as cheap as you can go for a halfway decent townie bike.

re: #60 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

I'll see that and raise you a Segway!

re: #62 freetoken

On the closing of the straits of Hormuz - complete blockage isn't necessary to achieve Iran's tactical goal. Any tanker owner will not put their (very expensive) assets at risk of being sunk. Remember, insurance companies normally do not cover "acts of war." If Iran merely openly shoots at tankers might be enough to drop the oil exports dramatically.

Also, isn't the conventional wisdom that Israel won't do anything before the US election?

US Naval vessels are/were/will be in/near the SoH for the foreseeable future, and I'm fairly certain that the Iranian Navy isn't as stupid as to open fire on a US warship.

re: #55 chicagodudewhotrades

I like your analysis but my only point of skepticism concerns Israeli public opinion/political will. Is Olmert in a position politically to take the risk? Morally, of course he obviously is. However, could he sustain the political fall out should the operation not go off as planned?

Perhaps some of the Lizards who are more tuned into Israeli politics could elaborate.

re: #62 freetoken

That tanker insurance can work both ways. the Iranians have to insure theirs too. As for the US elections, I think the Israelis deep down don't trust Obama not to sell them out. They may as well get their licks in while the administration is friendly to them

re: #17 freetoken

Many Japanese musicians pride themselves on their mastery of American Jazz. One of the best swing bands I've ever heard (and easily the best I've heard in person) is in Kansai.

Speaking of Japanese playing American music -- here's some. the better version stuff has apparently been removed (probably to avoid being reported to Viacomm)...

re: #49 swamprat

Charles; stumbled across a link posted by user;"Drained Brain"
. Not lgf material.

Why do you say that? Can you elaborate?

re: #64 Charles

Paid a little over $200 for last year's Schwinn Voyageur cyclocross bike. That's about as cheap as you can go for a halfway decent townie bike.

I remember paying $175 for a Mercier ten speed back in '73. It was a 27 inch with long frame that fit my long frame perfectly. It broke my heart when some evil-eyed, lowdown, black hearted mmmalefactor stole it.

re: #48 chicagodudewhotrades

I agree with most of what you are saying. However I have concerns and scenarios that may have to play out:

1) Even if Israel's Air Force doesn't have to take out the complete package, it
still is small in comparison to ours and that presents problems and
presents a greater demand to get it right.
2) We ( USN ) may have to take out some of those Kilo class subs and other
potential threats against our ships and other assets in advance or at the
same time as a necessary precaution.

3) We all better be prepared to back up our principals with our bucks. Gas will
go way up no matter what. That not only effects individuals but the
economy as a whole. And let's not even mention the Election.

re: #70 abolitionist

defending the right to send children to school wearing a swastika

re: #48 chicagodudewhotrades

When will Israel hit the Iranian nuclear program?

I believe that the Israelis will bomb Iran's nuclear weapons program soon. By 'soon' I mean between now and October.

I recently had this discussion with some friends, and only afterward found reports of interviews with Bolton that supported our theory. That is, that Israel will hit Iran after US elections in November, but before inauguration. The reasoning is that Israel will not want to do anything that might affect the election (if one assumes that McCain is "better for Israel" then a military attack might have the effect of creating more anti-war sentiment and more support for Obama).

If Obama is elected, Israel will certainly want to attack while Bush is in office and they have his support. If McCain is elected, they could in theory wait, but why dump the responsibility for reaction and follow up in his lap (which could cost him political capital and thus make him less friendly towards Israel), when Bush has nothing to lose?

I believe the Israelis will launch a attack by themselves. I don't believe that the US will actively participate in the bombing strikes. If the US is involved it will be on the sidelines in the form of Tanker/Electronic Warfare/Jamming support. The main US participation will be in the form of the US giving overflight rights to the IAF as the strike package flies over Iraqi airspace.

Agreed.

What could be the possible Iranian reactions?

The Iranians have publicly stated that if attacked, they will close down the Straits of Hormuz. Yes, the Straits are a pretty narrow chokepoint, but to totally close it down and prevent shipping to exit/enter the Gulf is still a challenge....After all, Iran exports oil out of the gulf just like everybody else. Since the only way the Iranians make money is by exporting oil, their economy will get crushed if the straits are blocked for a long period of time. The Iranians have in the past dumped contact mines into the gulf and damaged a few tankers, but again, if the Iranians succeed with the mines, their own economy takes a hit too.

Iran seems perfectly willing to sacrifice their own blood and treasure for the sake of war with the West, so I don't think the economic cost to them would be more than a speedbump. I am not familiar with the particulars of the US Navy but I agree that the US would be pulled in to keep the straits open.

Iran possesses a number of ground missiles with the range to hit targets across the gulf. they could hit US bases in the gulf. However, we have anti-missile systems like Patriot to handle this threat.

Certainly possible. Maybe you haven't gotten to this yet, but I think the one nearly certain response would be steel rain from Hezballah /Lebanon into Israel. Israel must be prepared for a multi-front battle from Lebanon, Gaza, and possibly long range missiles from Iran.

re: #62 freetoken

On the closing of the straits of Hormuz - complete blockage isn't necessary to achieve Iran's tactical goal. Any tanker owner will not put their (very expensive) assets at risk of being sunk. Remember, insurance companies normally do not cover "acts of war." If Iran merely openly shoots at tankers might be enough to drop the oil exports dramatically.

Also, isn't the conventional wisdom that Israel won't do anything before the US election?

A lot of talk now, that they will strike during the campaign.
The logic is to make Obama take a side of the issue.
If he condemns Israel, he could dry up his Jewish support including cash. If he supports Israel, the left goes nuts.

re: #69 christheprofessor

Speaking of Japanese playing American music -- here's some. the better version stuff has apparently been removed (probably to avoid being reported to Viacomm)...

Some of their original stuff in the same vein is good too. The Pillows are pretty good. Here is a good one, ignore the video, I'm talking about the music.

re: #73 swamprat

defending the right to send children to school wearing a swastika

The kid drew it on her own arm and the government took the kids from the parents. It's worth the watch.

Tokyo and impressionism. Debussy seems apt.

re: #75 opnion

A lot of talk now, that they will strike during the campaign.
The logic is to make Obama take a side of the issue.
If he condemns Israel, he could dry up his Jewish support including cash. If he supports Israel, the left goes nuts.

Or he could do what he usually does. Support it one day, oppose it the next and if any vote in the Senate comes up- vote Present. " Profiles in courage"?

re: #66 illegal upchuck

US Naval vessels are/were/will be in/near the SoH for the foreseeable future, and I'm fairly certain that the Iranian Navy isn't as stupid as to open fire on a US warship.

It is an insurance issue.
1. Iran declares a closure and makes a credible run at one merchant ship.
2. Lloyds will not insure any ship or cargo in the region.
3. The Straits are effectively closed.

Saddam tried it with floating mines in '91 and the Iranians threatened with Silkworms. Back then the threat was at the head of the Gulf to the West. The Straits being narrower are more vulnerable to this type of blackmail. Remember these are merchant ships we are talking about. They do not have to consistently sink them. They only have to make a credible threat.

re: #66 illegal upchuck

The Iranian Navy is not the real threat... they're a traditional service. It's the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guards. Those fanatics have speedboats and missiles... they would shoot at a US warship, or at least at a tanker. But the Iranians won't start anything until after the election. They always figured Bush was an aberration. The mullahs are banking on President Obama handing Iraq over to them in exchange for pretending to be nice for a few months.

re: #77 MacGregor
not the way it was presented, but ok

re: #52 Sharmuta

Did you see the spinoff today about their convention? They're worried that the mismanagement of the convention will reflect on the party. Gee- ya think?!

Won't Daddy Sorosbucks help out?

re: #74 transient

You nailed it. The Mullahs are praying for an Israeli/US strike. The country is broke, the population growing weary of their leaderships excesses. (Remember, the Shah was deposed in 1979 - almost 30 years ago. Iranians under 40 have no connection to the Islamic revolution.)

An attack would allow them to stir the nationalist stew and get people to stop thinking about their Swiss bank accounts.

I say give them what they desire.

re: #73 swamprat

I watched the video. Canadian TV put Ezra Levant in a weird position with that one. He's forced to defend the free speech of neo-Nazi parents with a kid who drew a swastika on her arm.

A bad position to be in. But he's right. The Canadian government is taking children away from parents because of their political views. Just consider that for a few quiet moments.

re: #73 swamprat

That was actually an interesting video of Ezra Levant raising the question of whether the State could remove children from parents who hadn't actually broken a law. Given the actions, I agree they were likely not a good parent, but the potential for abuse of bureaucratic judgment as far as being able to punish 'incorrect' thinking is huge.

re: #82 swamprat

not the way it was presented, but ok

Watch the end. ;)

re: #74 transient

Don't overlook Hezbollah/Iranian attacks at sites outside the Middle East. They've been seen surveying targets in UK, US & Canada recently.

re: #67 ironbill

I like your analysis but my only point of skepticism concerns Israeli public opinion/political will. Is Olmert in a position politically to take the risk? Morally, of course he obviously is. However, could he sustain the political fall out should the operation not go off as planned?

This is a great question and I'm not sure anyone has the answer though I'm sure there are plenty of opinions!

The Israeli public is as close to unanimous as Israelis ever get about the threat from Iran. The support for an attack would have to have the support of all the major political parties. It would not be at all surprising to have the leaders of opposition parties brought in and briefed. (This was the case before the attack on the Iraqi nuclear reactor in '82. Peres nearly screwed it up, apparently.) Once there is agreement that it has to be done, I think it will be done, despite the utter chaos (worse than usual) in current Israeli politics.

re: #79 Nevergiveup

Or he could do what he usually does. Support it one day, oppose it the next and if any vote in the Senate comes up- vote Present. " Profiles in courage"?

I think that this is one that he would have trouble nuancing.
The Iranian program progresses every day. There is really no reason that I can see to wait if you plan to attack.

re: #76 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

Interesting. Not my particular style, but thanks for that. And you are correct - skip the visual!

Oops, Pat if you're here, sorry, I posted a spinoff that you'd already posted a couple of threads down.

I usually look first but didn't this time. :p

re: #85 Charles

That was the Manitoba provincial gov't actually. The Canadian Federal gov't was not involved.

re: #85 Charles

I watched the video. Canadian TV put Ezra Levant in a weird position with that one. He's forced to defend the free speech of neo-Nazi parents who sent their kid to school wearing a swastika.

A bad position to be in. But he's right. The Canadian government is taking children away from parents. Just consider that for a few quiet moments.

So would the Canadian/Canadien government intervene to protect a child whose parents tried to send them out in a burkha?

re: #84 ironbill

You nailed it. The Mullahs are praying for an Israeli/US strike. The country is broke, the population growing weary of their leaderships excesses. (Remember, the Shah was deposed in 1979 - almost 30 years ago. Iranians under 40 have no connection to the Islamic revolution.)

An attack would allow them to stir the nationalist stew and get people to stop thinking about their Swiss bank accounts.

I say give them what they desire.

I think it ultimately has to be done, but are you prepared to pay 10, 11, or 12 dollars a gallon for gas? I am. I feel it will cost less now than later, but make no mistake, the economy will tank.

Oh, hell. Let's have some fun.

re: #95 Nevergiveup

I think it ultimately has to be done, but are you prepared to pay 10, 11, or 12 dollars a gallon for gas? I am. I feel it will cost less now than later, but make no mistake, the economy will tank.

Yup

re: #88 kenneth

Don't overlook Hezbollah/Iranian attacks at sites outside the Middle East. They've been seen surveying targets in UK, US & Canada recently.

Agreed, I'd forgotten about that.

re: #89 transient

For my nickel I think Israel has to act before the US election.

re: #83 MandyManners

Won't Daddy Sorosbucks help out?

How long has this damn convention been in the making?
It's a 3 day convention and they're effin' it up all to hell.
But they wanna be in charge of a country. Yeah, they'll do well with that.

Some were wondering on the previous thread why the yellow cake story isn't a bombshell...

US removes uranium from Iraq

Tuwaitha and an adjacent research facility were well known for decades as the centerpiece of Saddam's nuclear efforts.

Israeli warplanes bombed a reactor project at the site in 1981. Later, U.N. inspectors documented and safeguarded the yellowcake, which had been stored in aging drums and containers since before the 1991 Gulf War. There was no evidence of any yellowcake dating from after 1991, the official said.

I think that explains it..

re: #85 Charles

A bad position to be in. But he's right. The Canadian government is taking children away from parents. Just consider that for a few quiet moments.

"But its for the good of the children!"

And if they decide that perhaps being raised a Jew or a Christian, or home schooling, or if the parents don't vote a certain way is bad for the children?

The government should not have that power.

re: #94 lifeofthemind

Exactly.

re: #71 USBeast

I remember paying $175 for a Mercier ten speed back in '73. It was a 27 inch with long frame that fit my long frame perfectly. It broke my heart when some evil-eyed, lowdown, black hearted mmmalefactor stole it.

In my mid teens I road about 30 miles a day just for fun I had a motobecane it was a very light weight and fast bike but when I turned 18 I moved up to a Fuji what a bike that was I could go as fast I dared to go. I now have a very nice Mongoose but I have not taken it out for 3 years.

re: #94 lifeofthemind

So would the Canadian/Canadien government intervene to protect a child whose parents tried to send them out in a burkha?

Probably no more than the US gov't would protect a child whose parents wanted to send him to a gov't school...

re: #85 Charles

I think that was the purpose.

re: #99 lifeofthemind

For my nickel I think Israel has to act before the US election.

Yeah, force Obama to take a stand

re: #95 Nevergiveup

I think it ultimately has to be done, but are you prepared to pay 10, 11, or 12 dollars a gallon for gas? I am. I feel it will cost less now than later, but make no mistake, the economy will tank.

Wish I could get back on active duty myself. Would love the new Dress Khakis. Yes the economy will tank. Yes we should raise 6 more divisions and double the size of the fleet and number of air wing. Yes the left will scream.

re: #85 Charles

I watched the video. Canadian TV put Ezra Levant in a weird position with that one. He's forced to defend the free speech of neo-Nazi parents with a kid who drew a swastika on her arm.

A bad position to be in. But he's right. The Canadian government is taking children away from parents because of their political views. Just consider that for a few quiet moments.

Terrifying.

re: #94 lifeofthemind

That would be culturally insensitive.

re: #99 lifeofthemind

For my nickel I think Israel has to act before the US election.

Post election, pre-swearing in.

re: #98 transient

I've heard arguments the US will act in August, & that Israel will act before innaugeration. I also believe the Iranians won't give them any excuse to do so to help Obam get elected. Watch for concilliatory comments from Iran in the next few months.

re: #104 BBev

I now have a very nice Mongoose but I have not taken it out for 3 years.

What's that I hear? _{BBev! BBev! Please take me for a ride! Please!}

re: #83 MandyManners

Did you read that spinoff link? They have bigger problems than just the funding. Caterers are pulling out, the media might get stuck next to protesters- without air conditioning, and there's a shortage on hotel rooms and rental cars. It's a bigger mess than Daddy soros can solve.

I can't wait!

re: #97 opnion

Yup

I'm with you. That is why I am getting rif of my 350 HP manual car I love for a really low HP manual car next week.

re: #99 lifeofthemind

For my nickel I think Israel has to act before the US election.

I understand your sentiments but such an act would have to be overwhelmingly decisive. It would have to reduce Iran to squashed bug status without overt U.S. aid.

Post election, pre inauguration is another matter.

re: #114 Sharmuta

Did you read that spinoff link? They have bigger problems than just the funding. Caterers are pulling out, the media might get stuck next to protesters- without air conditioning, and there's a shortage on hotel rooms and rental cars. It's a bigger mess than Daddy soros can solve.

I can't wait!

Sounds like a perfect storm of leftism.

This is cute. :)

/my pets haven't gone green yet. they'll have to find another home if they try. lol

re: #102 Kragar (Proud to be Kafir)

"But its for the good of the children!"

And if they decide that perhaps being raised a Jew or a Christian, or home schooling, or if the parents don't vote a certain way is bad for the children?

The government should not have that power.

No, they should not! Short of an actual crime, parents should be left pretty much in charge of their kids. Even when I don't like what the parents are teaching.

re: #113 christheprofessor

What's that I hear? _{BBev! BBev! Please take me for a ride! Please!}

I know I was looking at it today.

re: #95 Nevergiveup

As for me: Yes. Unfortunately that is a question that is being asked to an unrepresentative sample here at LGF.

A big complaint concerning Iraq is that the nation never went into war mode like we did during WWII. I cannot recall where I saw it (probably here) but some Marines in Iraq made a sign that read "The Marines went war. America went to the mall."

re: #108 lifeofthemind

Wish I could get back on active duty myself. Would love the new Dress Khakis. Yes the economy will tank. Yes we should raise 6 more divisions and double the size of the fleet and number of air wing. Yes the left will scream.

You know they are actually REDUCING the number of carrier groups by 2. UN- FUCKING believable!

re: #115 Nevergiveup

I'm with you. That is why I am getting rif of my 350 HP manual car I love for a really low HP manual car next week.

Man, what is happening to us? Driiiiiiiiiil! Do not let the crude be exported.

re: #114 Sharmuta

I admit to chuckling. I know I shouldn't, but this is gonna be better than Carter's acceptance speech, where he shouted, "Herbert! Horatio! Hornblower! uh...Humphrey!"

re: #85 Charles Raising your child to be a nazi is child abuse..... But there are some interesting points. Your choice if you want it on your blog, and I thought you should be aware of it.

re: #101 Killgore Trout

Good job. Answered my query.

A million moonbats will sleep much easier tonight (not that if it did turn up as being from Niger, they would care).

re: #120 BBev

I know I was looking at it today.

Okay, you have all week to buff the dust off, make her shine, get her all oiled up... Saturday is only five days away! She'll appreciate it (your legs and butt may not, though)...

re: #123 opnion

Man, what is happening to us? Driiiiiiiiiil! Do not let the crude be exported.

Hey I'm keeping and driving my Dodge 2500. when you small car drivers try and cut me off, good luck. Maybe I will put a plow on it for the summer also. I don't want to scratch the bumper.

re: #124 Dianna

He yelled "Horatio Hornblower", for real? Oh that's hilarious!

re: #121 ironbill

As for me: Yes. Unfortunately that is a question that is being asked to an unrepresentative sample here at LGF.

A big complaint concerning Iraq is that the nation never went into war mode like we did during WWII. I cannot recall where I saw it (probably here) but some Marines in Iraq made a sign that read "The Marines went war. America went to the mall."

I agree, That was one of Bush's great mistakes, not forcing the nation to make sacrifices.

re: #127 christheprofessor

Okay, you have all week to buff the dust off, make her shine, get her all oiled up... Saturday is only five days away! She'll appreciate it (your legs and butt may not, though)...

I'm giving notice at work tomorrow, I might be able to give it a spin by noon.

re: #85 Charles
I, too, am not comfortable with government playing the role of "Big Brother".

re: #129 gop_patriot

I was a witness.

My mom and I fell off the couch.

re: #95 Nevergiveup

I think it ultimately has to be done, but are you prepared to pay 10, 11, or 12 dollars a gallon for gas? I am. I feel it will cost less now than later, but make no mistake, the economy will tank.

The cost of sending The Kid to his private, Christian academy would shoot up to close to $1,500.00/mo..

Let's open up more domestic drilling first.

re: #55 chicagodudewhotrades

The best course of action the Iranians have is doing something against Israel. They can use their surrogates in Syria and Hezbollah to launch terror attacks in Israel and/or step up the never-ending rocket strikes on Israeli border communities. I don't think the Syrians would launch conventional military attacks across the Golan.

Yes. on Hizballah. Syrians always like working through Lebanon, plausible deniability. Doubt they will attack from Syrian soil for reasons you state. Before the recent Lebanon war, Hizballah was estimated to have about 13,000 missiles. They have been resupplied courtesy of Iran and Syria and it is now estimated they have over 30,000, and longer range. It will not be pretty.

Another factor to consider in any Iranian reaction to airstrikes on it's nuclear facility is the Iranian national will to respond to airstrikes. If the Iranian people realize that their nuke program is hurting them they will probably drop support for it. There is already high Inflation and Unemployment along with low Economic growth. The Iranian leadership is already unpopular because of the domestic economic issues, if their desire to possess nukes causes a great deal of national pain...... well, Iran is a country that has had a revolution, nothing says the people can't have a second one to throw out the religious leadership.

I would not count on this at all. There is nothing like an enemy attack to rally the people around their government, even if it's not a popular one. And as you say, Iran is a police state, and they are quite capable of cracking down brutally on any protests. Revolution works best when the government in power has lost political will as well as credibility, and there is no sign of loss of will on the part of the mullatocracy.

An Israeli attack, even a conventional one, could even have the opposite effect of increasing Iranian support for their "defensive" nuclear program. Additionally, because the Iranian regime has intentionally located their nuclear sites near civilian populations, it is possible there may be significant civilian casualties, which will anger the Iranian populace.

Don't get me wrong-- I don't see a lot of options for Israel other than to hit the Iranian nukes sites, but I think the cost will be high, and this is why everyone has delayed so long.

re: #124 Dianna

I admit to chuckling. I know I shouldn't, but this is gonna be better than Carter's acceptance speech, where he shouted, "Herbert! Horatio! Hornblower! uh...Humphrey!"

Carter & Mondale were on one of the morning shows today.
Both of them defended & are proud of their conduct during the Iranian hostage crisis! It is actually lunacy as that is the genisis of the current Jihad. Neither one is out of step with the Democrat party now.

re: #128 BBev

Hey I'm keeping and driving my Dodge 2500. when you small car drivers try and cut me off, good luck. Maybe I will put a plow on it for the summer also. I don't want to scratch the bumper.

Gun turret! Thats the ticket!

re: #134 MandyManners

The cost of sending The Kid to his private, Christian academy would shoot up to close to $1,500.00/mo..

Let's open up more domestic drilling first.

We should have done it 35 years ago and built so many nuclear power plants it would make France envious, but the Dems are still against it.

re: #130 Nevergiveup

I agree, That was one of Bush's great mistakes, not forcing the nation to make sacrifices.

Just one. Another was letting the left and their minions in the media define the war on their terms (remember Jorge Boosh's war for oil?).

Bush abandoned the field in the Information War...

re: #131 BBev

I'm giving notice at work tomorrow, I might be able to give it a spin by noon.

I'm sorry to hear that (unless it's for bigger and better things, or, better yet, time to retire -- but, I repeat myself!).

Do you think they'll just escort you to the door upon notice? If so, make sure you get what you want out of your office, desk, and computer...

re: #136 opnion

That is pitiful!

re: #137 opnion

Gun turret! Thats the ticket!

I did not think of that, cool

re: #124 Dianna

I think it's pretty pathetic- here's a party that can't even organize it's own convention, yet we're supposed to believe that somewhere in their ranks is a person capable of running the country? The ideas they have about running their convention are a microcosm of how they'd like to run the country, and yet it's imploding on them. I'm sure the idea of rethinking their "nifty" ideas has yet to occur to them.

re: #130 Nevergiveup

I agree, That was one of Bush's great mistakes, not forcing the nation to make sacrifices.

I have always maintained that President Bush's errors concerning Iraq were: 1) Underestimating the inherently corrupt nature of Muslim societies, and 2) trusting that Democrat politicians would actually seek the greater success of our nation despite the political benefit it might give their opponents.

re: #136 opnion

Carter & Mondale were on one of the morning shows today.
Both of them defended & are proud of their conduct during the Iranian hostage crisis! It is actually lunacy as that is the genisis of the current Jihad. Neither one is out of step with the Democrat party now.

The must be suffering from dementia. (Sorry to those who may have a family member who is actually suffering from this horrible condition - intended to be somewhat funny in this context.)
/

re: #122 Nevergiveup

You know they are actually REDUCING the number of carrier groups by 2. UN- FUCKING believable!

Can someone hand them a dictionary and have them look up synergy to explain the need for more carriers for multi-carrier ops? I'm a black shoe and I know that. Also they should read John Lehman's autobiography to get the importance of NIBWM in the retention of skilled personnel.

re: #112 kenneth

I've heard arguments the US will act in August, & that Israel will act before innaugeration. I also believe the Iranians won't give them any excuse to do so to help Obam get elected. Watch for concilliatory comments from Iran in the next few months.

I've given up expecting the US to act directly/openly. I certainly don't think we will do it before the election, because there is the worry that part of the electorate will say "Look, the Republicans have gotten us into another war" and vote for Obama. I also doubt we'll do it after the election. I don't think presidents like to dump big things like this on the next guy.

A cooperative operation between Israel and the US is another story, as long as Israel gets the headlines. Yes, everyone will know the US is involved even if US involvement is "covert," but appearance matters.

re: #140 christheprofessor

I'm sorry to hear that (unless it's for bigger and better things, or, better yet, time to retire -- but, I repeat myself!).

Do you think they'll just escort you to the door upon notice? If so, make sure you get what you want out of your office, desk, and computer...

Well seeing as I run just about everything right now my guess I will escort myself out.

re: #139 christheprofessor

Just one. Another was letting the left and their minions in the media define the war on their terms (remember Jorge Boosh's war for oil?).

Bush abandoned the field in the Information War...

In my opinion, his biggest mistake was in the way that he defined the enemy, 'A minority, who hijacked a peaceful religion"
It does not take much research to discover that is not the case.
But most Americans got their attitudes from that assertion. I did not want him to stir up hatred toward Muslims in this country, but a touch of reality would have been nice.

re: #73 swamprat

I believe Ezra Levant is not speaking to promote nazi symbols at all, but is raising alarms about a government exceeding its authority where people's children are concerned. In effect, the government is very close to using kids as hostages for purposes of punishing political dissent. That's very scary.

What if I taught my kids that Global Warming is bullcr** and that Al Gore is an evil charlatan, and (if I lived in Canada) the government considered this to be child abuse? I think that's what Levant is speaking about.

Agreement with the "child abuse" allegations in a case such as this is to give a government way too much power.

I'm with Levant on this one.

re: #134 MandyManners

The cost of sending The Kid to his private, Christian academy would shoot up to close to $1,500.00/mo..

Let's open up more domestic drilling first.

I realize that sounds selfish but, that's what I'm facing. It likely would increase a lot more than that once tuition went up to reflect the cost of maintaining the campus. And, lunch would likely increase to $150.00-$200.00/mo.. Just paying for the gas to travel 300 miles/wk. would empty my pool of ready cash. Twenty mpg @ $10.00/gal. would cost me more than $1,000.00 a month.

re: #138 Nevergiveup

We should have done it 35 years ago and built so many nuclear power plants it would make France envious, but the Dems are still against it.

Oh, fuck the Democrats.

re: #151 MandyManners

I realize that sounds selfish but, that's what I'm facing. It likely would increase a lot more than that once tuition went up to reflect the cost of maintaining the campus. And, lunch would likely increase to $150.00-$200.00/mo.. Just paying for the gas to travel 300 miles/wk. would empty my pool of ready cash. Twenty mpg @ $10.00/gal. would cost me more than $1,000.00 a month.

Is my math correct?

re: #151 MandyManners

I'm spending $1,000.00 per month right now,

re: #143 Sharmuta

Oh, yes.

Now it's dinner time, so I'm out for a bit.

re: #148 BBev

Well seeing as I run just about everything right now my guess I will escort myself out.

I think you should call security on yourself... Make it interesing...

re: #149 opnion

I tend to agree. He had to be tactful, to be sure, but he didn't have to be obtuse.

re: #152 MandyManners

Oh, fuck the Democrats.

Every chance I get.

re: #152 MandyManners

re: #138 Nevergiveup

We should have done it 35 years ago and built so many nuclear power plants it would make France envious, but the Dems are still against it.

Oh, fuck the Democrats.

Everybody remember Hanoi Jane heroically confronting the evil of nuclear power in "The China Syndrome?" and the hysteria about Three Mile Island?

re: #154 BBev

I'm spending $1,000.00 per month right now,

Well, I'm not. He's not in school and our lives pretty local right now. That would be an enormous slam. He'd go to public school. My main problem with ths public system is that he's reading at a 4/5/6 grade level and they just could not handle that. He gets bored very quickly.

re: #157 Nevergiveup

Every chance I get.

Not even with Dirk's...never mind.

re: #156 christheprofessor

I think you should call security on yourself... Make it interesing...

re: #149 opnion

I tend to agree. He had to be tactful, to be sure, but he didn't have to be obtuse.

UM......I'm security also. I made the local paper last week busting some guys causing trouble. But I can still call myself from my cellphone to the office phone

re: #156 christheprofessor

I think you should call security on yourself... Make it interesing...

"Won't someone help that poor man?!"

(RIP Cleavon Little)

re: #158 lifeofthemind

Everybody remember Hanoi Jane heroically confronting the evil of nuclear power in "The China Syndrome?" and the hysteria about Three Mile Island?

I found my "I'm Not Fonda' Hanoi Jane" T-shirt the other day. I'm thinking of wearing it when I go vote in November.

re: #153 MandyManners

Just paying for the gas to travel 300 miles/wk. would empty my pool of ready cash. Twenty mpg @ $10.00/gal. would cost me more than $1,000.00 a month.

By my calculations (wine-induced, I might add -- add --- heh), that's $150/month. 300/20 = 15 gallons, at $10/gallon = $150...

re: #161 buzzsawmonkey

Absolutely correct. Levant is defending the sanctity of the family against the interference of the state, unless there is demonstrable physical abuse of the child.

Permitting the state to intervene against parents who do not have the "correct thoughts" of the moment is the death of liberty--and opens the door to abuses going in whatever direction the political winds blow.

I suggest everyone add The Kidnaping of Edgardo Mortara to their reading list. This details the story of the Inquisition kidnaping the six-year-old Jewish child Edgardo Mortara from his parents in 1857, on the grounds that his Christian nanny had secretly baptized him during a prior illness. Despite international outcry, Edgardo was never restored to his family. He later became a priest, and died in Belgium during the Nazi occupation.

I've never heard of that until now.

re: #165 christheprofessor

By my calculations (wine-induced, I might add -- add --- heh), that's $150/month. 300/20 = 15 gallons, at $10/gallon = $150...

Oh, my. THANK YOU!

Man, oh man.

I can handle that.

What was I thinking?

re: #162 BBev

UM......I'm security also. I made the local paper last week busting some guys causing trouble. But I can still call myself from my cellphone to the office phone

Can you get a masturcalling plan?

re: #163 Occasional Reader

"Won't someone help that poor man?!"

(RIP Cleavon Little)

Isn't that from Blazing Saddles? They've been showing the hell out of that lately... Perhaps in part as a tribute to Harvey Korman...

re: #150 abolitionist

I'm with Levant on this one too....100%. Taking the kids away for these reasons is....well, it's quintessentially fascist. There's an irony.

However, I have no problem with the school censoring gang symbols, offensive logos, slogans, etc. worn by minor children on campus. I think the notion of children having full "freedom of expression" at school is hogwash. Common sense is in order.

Education is a privilege, not an absolute right.

re: #150 abolitionist I get all that. I understand the ramifications. But. This will be used by others to reinforce the LGF=racism meme. Valid points or not, that video is toxic, and will be used against us. It is a classic "poison in the well" scenario. It is not on my shoulders, however. The person who matters has seen it and made his decision, I just pointed it out. Yes parents have rights. I have a pagan daughter and son-in law, who are raising my pagan grandchildren. Trust me, I get it.

Those religious southerners....
[Link: news.yahoo.com...]

There is still racism in this country. But , as a nation,
we've come a long way in 50 years

Well time to pick my daughter up at the airport,

Good night all.

re: #167 MandyManners

Feeling better?!

re: #55 chicagodudewhotrades

[W]ould the Iranian military back up the government or side with the people? ... I do think a popular overthrow of the religious leadership is possible.

Revolutionary guards will back the regime (hell, they are part of the regime) and they will brutally suppress any opposition. A popular overthrow is possible in theory but improbable. I am certainly not counting on it any time soon.

The price of oil will shoot up, that is a given.

Yep. You're the market guy, so I won't comment on gold and silver, you know better than I do.

...if the airstrikes are a single day's worth of airstrikes versus a days long campaign, if only Iranian nuke program targets are hit , instead of strikes that include Iranian military targets, if Syria decides to throw down with Iran, etc.

The US has enough planes and personnel to attack for days on end. I doubt Israel would be able to conduct more than a few sorties. I would say only one, but never, never underestimate the Israelis!

I think the aistrikes would hurt the Obama campaign and the Dems. Why? they stand together against any possibility of domestic oil drilling here. If Oil goes to $200/barrel with the resulting rise in domestic gas prices this will kill any Dem chances to win in November.

This is where we disagree. I think that if there is any attack before the election, the Republicans will take the blame. If oil goes to $200 a barrel, people will blame Israel, not Obama. And they may blame the Republicans who gave Israel the weapons, the friendly codes, the green light, etc.

Even if you disagree with that, I think the one certainty is that NO ONE is certain enough about the political outcome to be willing to gamble the political future of their party on it. They will play it safe.

re: #168 buzzsawmonkey

Fascinating story. It happened in Bologna when that city was still under temporal papal rule. The international scandal was instrumental in assisting with the unification of Italy by Garibaldi, but it doesn't get a lot of mention nowadays.

Elian Gonsalez's situation pales in comparison.

re: #161 buzzsawmonkey

Thank you. And if anyone thinks that sort of thing couldn't happen in the good ol' USA, I respectfully suggest you check into what Bernardine Dohrn does for a living these days, deep in the Belly of the Beast.

re: #174 christheprofessor

Feeling better?!

Oh, yes. Indeed. Much, much better. Thank you.

re: #180 buzzsawmonkey

Throw in "critical analysis" for the hat trick.

re: #182 buzzsawmonkey

Did you see this among her pubications:
Bernardine Dohrn is the editor of Zero Tolerance: Resisting the Drive for Punishment in Our Schools.
I'm convinced this one issue is most of what went wrong in the public schools. When I was in school, knowing the school had that power kept a lot of us in our seats and paying attention.

re: #138 Nevergiveup

We should have done it 35 years ago and built so many nuclear power plants it would make France envious, but the Dems are still against it.

France built nukes to replace oil burning plants. In the USA we produce less than 2% of our electric power with oil, and that percentage is dropping annually. The price of oil has mostly done away with its use in electric power production except in some states like New York, which gets 10% of its power from oil. Coal is the fuel producing most of our power. I'm not against nuke power, it should be what is built when new generation is needed for environmental reasons, but if we built a number of nukes right now it would make little difference in oil consumption.

Charles,

You are definitely not a minimalist when it comes to music. All your faves get very busy...

re: #101 Killgore Trout

Some were wondering on the previous thread why the yellow cake story isn't a bombshell...

US removes uranium from Iraq

I think that explains it..

It's not very suitable for a weapon in it's current state:
[Link: littlegreenfootballs.com...]

it's=its

re: #179 buzzsawmonkey

I don't want to make comparisons--any wresting of a child from its family is horrific, even when necessary--but check out the book if you can. It's instructive to see what Europe was like not that long ago.

I had a hard time writing that post for that very reason.

How about this organ solo in Japan?

I love me some Medeski.

MandyManners:

I've been using a more easy and practical way to measure vehicle fuel usage. Instead of using MILES PER GALLON (MPG), calculate your usage as MILES PER DOLLAR, or MPD. Here are some rough examples, based on a cost of $4.00 per gallon of gasoline, which could be changed up or down as you prefer:

--My Chevy Astro currently goes about 16 miles on one gallon of gas, which at $4.00 per gallon, means that it's costing me 4 Miles Per Dollar (MPD).

--A typical Honda family sedan goes about 32 miles on one gallon of gas, which is about 8 MPD.

--A Prius hybrid goes about 44 miles on one gallon of gas, which is about 11 MPD.

--A Prius with an aftermarket battery pack, which allows you to plug into inexpensive house electricity to recharge overnight, goes the dollar-equivalent of 100 miles per gallon, which is about 25 MPD.

So if you're commuting 1,200 miles per month, divide your commuting miles by the MPD figure, and that's how many dollars your monthly fuel cost will be.

For example, if you had an 8MPD Honda car, then 1,200 divided by 8 comes out to $150. for the month, whereas my 4MPD Astro would cost $300. and a 25MPD Prius would be just under $50.

(No, I don't drive the Astro every day! Its days are numbered...)

I believe that the MPD calculation will gain more usage as alternative energy fuel systems come on-line. Bottom line: How far am I traveling, and how much will it cost me?
.

Check out what McCain is promising.

It would be great if he could follow through with this but I think his eyes are turning brown.

Re: music, here's a video of my good friend Cyprien Katsaris playing Flight of the Bumblebee, 33 years ago. Nobody does it better:

Cyprien lives in Paris, and during his career he has made over 20 concert tours to Japan. Here's a recent tutorial video of him teaching a young Japanese prodigy the finer techniques of a Chopin piece:

(That's #1 of 4. Watch them all -- they're equally inspiring)
.

Jazz (random fingering, tooting, whatever) is just NOT my cup-of-tea. I drink coffee anyway. For me, this is like fingernails on blackboards (for those of us that remember blackboards). It sounds so randomly conflicted.

Sorry. I'm sure he's quite good... for those who like that particular "art form".

Just when you're almost convinced that Keith is imitating a random number generator while he waits for his muse to show up, it dawns on you that she was there all along.

Way too atonal. I've studied Jazz at Berklee College of Music, have been playing guitar for over 20 years, was in numerous bands in High School, College and several years after....but this is too much. It sounds like the Space portions of otherwise fabulous Dead shows (I went to MANY of them). That's when my friends and I would go get a beer and hit the nose-bleed seats for a "smoke" during Drums-> Space.

Adding a 9th and 13th once in a while and throwing in a diminished or chromatic run here and there can add flavor, but this is just too much.

re: #196 Boston Patriot

To each his own, but I see absolutely no similarity at all between the Drums->Space that the Dead used to soil their shows with and Mr. Jarrett. They share a lack of diatonic harmony but other than that I see nothing in common at all.

Drums->Space was the Dead completely disengaged and banging on stuff while the guys at the front of the band who go pump more chemicals into their body. Whether it speaks to you or not, I would say that Mr. Jarrett is pretty engaged.

But that is the beauty of art. We all see/hear something different. But we seem to be in agreement that Drums->Space was not art.

Does anyone actually like this stuff? "It don't mean a thing, if it ain't got that swing." This don't got.