Are these groups beginning to learn the fine art of compromise?
The move could clear a major stumbling block in government talks with Sunnis and Kurds. In return, the coalition seeks control of Defense.
BAGHDAD — Leaders of Iraq's powerful Shiite Muslim political bloc said Friday that they were willing to give up control over the Interior Ministry and its police forces, a move that could ease both the fears of other sectarian groups and the formation of a new government.
Under Shiite leadership for the last year, the ministry has been accused of providing cover for death squads and militias that have targeted minority Sunni Arabs, stoking mistrust of security forces and spurring the growth of destabilizing armed groups.
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Friday, April 28, 2006
U.S. GDP rises 4.8% in first quarter
More Hooverville
WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) -- The U.S. economy snapped back in the first quarter, growing at an annual rate of 4.8%, the fastest growth in more than two years, the Commerce Department said Friday.
WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) -- The U.S. economy snapped back in the first quarter, growing at an annual rate of 4.8%, the fastest growth in more than two years, the Commerce Department said Friday.
French President Calls on World Bank to Pay PA Salaries
Just when we begin to forget why we so despise Jacques Chirac, he reminds us.......
French President Jacques Chirac called on Friday morning for the World Bank to pay the salaries of the Palestinian Authority government employees, according to the Associated Press.
Chirac said the World Bank should create a special fund in order to transfer monies earmarked for public service employees in the PA.
The French president met with PA President Mahmoud Abbas on Friday to discuss ways to help the cash-strapped PA.
Maybe a better idea would be to seize Suha Arafat's assets, the billions of $ stolen by her late husband, and pay the PA salaries with that.
French President Jacques Chirac called on Friday morning for the World Bank to pay the salaries of the Palestinian Authority government employees, according to the Associated Press.
Chirac said the World Bank should create a special fund in order to transfer monies earmarked for public service employees in the PA.
The French president met with PA President Mahmoud Abbas on Friday to discuss ways to help the cash-strapped PA.
Maybe a better idea would be to seize Suha Arafat's assets, the billions of $ stolen by her late husband, and pay the PA salaries with that.
Local al-Qaida Leader in Iraq Killed
More terrorist scumbags bite the dust.
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Iraqi forces killed a local al-Qaida in Iraq leader and two other insurgents in a raid north of Baghdad on Friday, and roadside bombs killed an American soldier and an Iraqi policeman, officials said.
Iraqi commando forces acting on a tip raided a house where Hamid al-Takhi and the two other insurgents were hiding in Samarra, a city 60 miles north of Baghdad, said police Capt. Laith Mohammed. All three were killed in a gunbattle.
Mohammed said al-Takhi had been responsible for many insurgent attacks against coalition forces and civilians in the area.
BAGHDAD, Iraq - Iraqi forces killed a local al-Qaida in Iraq leader and two other insurgents in a raid north of Baghdad on Friday, and roadside bombs killed an American soldier and an Iraqi policeman, officials said.
Iraqi commando forces acting on a tip raided a house where Hamid al-Takhi and the two other insurgents were hiding in Samarra, a city 60 miles north of Baghdad, said police Capt. Laith Mohammed. All three were killed in a gunbattle.
Mohammed said al-Takhi had been responsible for many insurgent attacks against coalition forces and civilians in the area.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
Iraq cleric calls for disarmament
Mookie is deeply saddened......
Ayatollah Ali Sistani, one of Iraq's most senior Shia clerics, has called for the next government to dismantle militias operating in the country.
The grand ayatollah said only the government should have weapons, and its forces should be loyal to the nation - not to individual political parties.
Many Iraqis blame militias for a sharp rise in violence after the bombing of a Shia mosque in Samarra two months ago.
Iraq's new PM-designate has vowed to take action against the armed groups.
Ayatollah Ali Sistani, one of Iraq's most senior Shia clerics, has called for the next government to dismantle militias operating in the country.
The grand ayatollah said only the government should have weapons, and its forces should be loyal to the nation - not to individual political parties.
Many Iraqis blame militias for a sharp rise in violence after the bombing of a Shia mosque in Samarra two months ago.
Iraq's new PM-designate has vowed to take action against the armed groups.
Jobless Claims
From Polipundit
The Labor Department says the four-week moving average of first-time claims for state jobless benefits is that of 309,000.
To put that into perspective, back in April 1998 – during the halcyon daze of the liberal media’s self-proclaimed “greatest economic expansion of all time” – the four-week moving average of initial jobless claims was 311,000.
Yep, more people were being laid off from their jobs back then when compared to today. That’s notwithstanding the fact upwards of 13 million more people are working today.
The Labor Department says the four-week moving average of first-time claims for state jobless benefits is that of 309,000.
To put that into perspective, back in April 1998 – during the halcyon daze of the liberal media’s self-proclaimed “greatest economic expansion of all time” – the four-week moving average of initial jobless claims was 311,000.
Yep, more people were being laid off from their jobs back then when compared to today. That’s notwithstanding the fact upwards of 13 million more people are working today.
Iraq leader hopes to form government in a week
Surprisingly good news if it pans out.
BAGHDAD - Prime Minister-designate Nuri Al Maliki said on Thursday he hoped to form a government within a week after meeting Washington’s top defence and foreign affairs officials and two of Iraq’s most powerful clerics.
As Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Defense Secretary Donald Rumseld flew out, Maliki pledged to fill the key posts of interior and defence ministers with non-sectarian appointees.
Maliki has 30 days from last Saturday to present his cabinet to parliament for approval but has said he wants to move faster on creating a grand coalition of majority Shi’ite Muslims, Sunni Arabs and Kurds to combat the violence wracking the country.
BAGHDAD - Prime Minister-designate Nuri Al Maliki said on Thursday he hoped to form a government within a week after meeting Washington’s top defence and foreign affairs officials and two of Iraq’s most powerful clerics.
As Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice and Defense Secretary Donald Rumseld flew out, Maliki pledged to fill the key posts of interior and defence ministers with non-sectarian appointees.
Maliki has 30 days from last Saturday to present his cabinet to parliament for approval but has said he wants to move faster on creating a grand coalition of majority Shi’ite Muslims, Sunni Arabs and Kurds to combat the violence wracking the country.
Beardstown plant to close Monday for immigration rallies
The Entrenched Media gets it wrong again.
BEARDSTOWN - The Cargill Meat Solutions pork-processing plant will close Monday to allow workers to take part in a national day of immigration-rights rallies.
The Beardstown plant is one seven across the nation that Cargill will close that day, company spokesman Mark Klein said Tuesday.
"There seems to be a lot of momentum related to May 1, and it makes sense to go this way," Klein said. "We have similar feelings about immigration-reform proposals that a number of our employees have."
and also this....
Seaboard pork plant to close for immigration rally
CHICAGO (Reuters) - Seaboard Corp. said it will close its Guymon, Oklahoma, pork plant on Monday to allow workers to attend rallies planned for that day in support of immigration reform, the company said.
My real job entails dealing with these plants as I am a meat broker/trader by day. Don't believe the spin being offered up here. These companies have no grand empathy for their hispanic workers or their cause. They simply realize that trying to run a packing plant with 50+ percent of your workforce a no show spells disaster hence they're attempting to get ahead of the curve and bow to the inevitable.
The packing industry has gone through an evolution in labor force starting in the 1960s. Prior to that time the average packing plant worker made $15-$20/hr. with full benefits and a healthy pension. Many local kids went off to earn a four year degree only to come back and work in the plant because it was the highest paying job going. Then in an effort to achieve sector dominance IBP the largest packer at the time began importing labor starting with VietNamese but evolving into predominatly Hispanic, wages were slashed to slightly better than minimum and the pensions evaporated. When IBP did it, all plants were forced to follow suit to compete. Hence the situation we have today. It the reason meat prices have experienced the slowest "inflationary creep" over the past 30 years of practically any commodity.
Today the average beef or pork packing plant maintains a workforce of approximately 50% Hispanic, 20% Black, 2o% Oriental and 10% other.
To insinuate that these plants are gleefully losing a days production because of a sympathies with their workers beliefs is a monumental canard.
BEARDSTOWN - The Cargill Meat Solutions pork-processing plant will close Monday to allow workers to take part in a national day of immigration-rights rallies.
The Beardstown plant is one seven across the nation that Cargill will close that day, company spokesman Mark Klein said Tuesday.
"There seems to be a lot of momentum related to May 1, and it makes sense to go this way," Klein said. "We have similar feelings about immigration-reform proposals that a number of our employees have."
and also this....
Seaboard pork plant to close for immigration rally
CHICAGO (Reuters) - Seaboard Corp. said it will close its Guymon, Oklahoma, pork plant on Monday to allow workers to attend rallies planned for that day in support of immigration reform, the company said.
My real job entails dealing with these plants as I am a meat broker/trader by day. Don't believe the spin being offered up here. These companies have no grand empathy for their hispanic workers or their cause. They simply realize that trying to run a packing plant with 50+ percent of your workforce a no show spells disaster hence they're attempting to get ahead of the curve and bow to the inevitable.
The packing industry has gone through an evolution in labor force starting in the 1960s. Prior to that time the average packing plant worker made $15-$20/hr. with full benefits and a healthy pension. Many local kids went off to earn a four year degree only to come back and work in the plant because it was the highest paying job going. Then in an effort to achieve sector dominance IBP the largest packer at the time began importing labor starting with VietNamese but evolving into predominatly Hispanic, wages were slashed to slightly better than minimum and the pensions evaporated. When IBP did it, all plants were forced to follow suit to compete. Hence the situation we have today. It the reason meat prices have experienced the slowest "inflationary creep" over the past 30 years of practically any commodity.
Today the average beef or pork packing plant maintains a workforce of approximately 50% Hispanic, 20% Black, 2o% Oriental and 10% other.
To insinuate that these plants are gleefully losing a days production because of a sympathies with their workers beliefs is a monumental canard.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Second Sinai Attack Kills Only Bombers
NO VIRGINS for YOU!
Two suicide bombers struck Wednesday outside the main base of the multinational peacekeeping force near the Gaza border in Sinai, killing themselves but causing no other casualties in an attack two days after a deadly triple bombing in a beach resort.
The Interior Ministry, meanwhile, lowered the death toll from Monday's bombings in the Sinai beach resort of Dahab to 21, down from earlier reports of 24 killed. It gave no explanation.
Security officials said Wednesday's bombers struck about 35 minutes apart near the main Multinational Forces and Observer base about three miles south of the Rafa border crossing to Gaza in northern Sinai.
A statement from the Multinational Force headquarters in Rome said the two suicide bombers died but there were no other casualties.
Two suicide bombers struck Wednesday outside the main base of the multinational peacekeeping force near the Gaza border in Sinai, killing themselves but causing no other casualties in an attack two days after a deadly triple bombing in a beach resort.
The Interior Ministry, meanwhile, lowered the death toll from Monday's bombings in the Sinai beach resort of Dahab to 21, down from earlier reports of 24 killed. It gave no explanation.
Security officials said Wednesday's bombers struck about 35 minutes apart near the main Multinational Forces and Observer base about three miles south of the Rafa border crossing to Gaza in northern Sinai.
A statement from the Multinational Force headquarters in Rome said the two suicide bombers died but there were no other casualties.
McCarthy in Denial
Outed CIA analyst Mary McCarthy is denying through her lawyers that she was the source for the Washington Post's Dana Priest in revealing the secret prisons that housed terrorists overseas. McCarthy's lawyers, though, aren't throwing cold water on the notion that McCarthy may have had political inclinations and agendas that came into play with what even they termed unauthorized or undisclosed contacts with journalists.
Perhaps that's why the Howard Dean and others at the Democrat National Committee are looking to some of their donors to set up a legal defense fund for McCarthy."
If Scooter Libby can have a legal defense fund and website, then McCarthy should have one too," says a DNC staffer. "The DNC wouldn't set it up, we'd have some of our donors do it on the outside. There are plenty of consultants willing to help on this one, we think."
Two big differences tootz. Libby's defense fund was not spearheaded by Ken Mehlman and "set up" by the RNC. Secondly, Libby's position was, by definition, political whereas McCarthy's is necessarily NOT.
Perhaps that's why the Howard Dean and others at the Democrat National Committee are looking to some of their donors to set up a legal defense fund for McCarthy."
If Scooter Libby can have a legal defense fund and website, then McCarthy should have one too," says a DNC staffer. "The DNC wouldn't set it up, we'd have some of our donors do it on the outside. There are plenty of consultants willing to help on this one, we think."
Two big differences tootz. Libby's defense fund was not spearheaded by Ken Mehlman and "set up" by the RNC. Secondly, Libby's position was, by definition, political whereas McCarthy's is necessarily NOT.
Durable goods orders soar 6.1% in March
Look for little coverage of this and non-stop coverage of gas prices. Wouldn't it be refreshing to actually have someone in the press make the correlation between the two? I'm not holding my breath.
WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) - Orders for new U.S.-made durable goods increased 6.1% in March, led by strong demand for airplanes, machinery and electronics, the Commerce Department said Wednesday.
The increase in new orders was the largest since May 2005 and far exceeded the 2.1% gain expected by economists surveyed by MarketWatch.
Orders rose an upwardly revised 3.4% in February. Orders are up 12.2% year-to-date and have increased in five of the past six months.
The big story in March was continued strength in orders for civilian aircraft, which increased 71% in March after a 60% gain in February. Orders for airplanes are up 130% year-to-date, reflecting strong export sales by Boeing, in particular.
Excluding the 14% rise in transportation goods, new orders rose 2.8% in March, the biggest gain since August.
And then this....
Stunning 13.8% increase in new home sales
WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) - Orders for new U.S.-made durable goods increased 6.1% in March, led by strong demand for airplanes, machinery and electronics, the Commerce Department said Wednesday.
The increase in new orders was the largest since May 2005 and far exceeded the 2.1% gain expected by economists surveyed by MarketWatch.
Orders rose an upwardly revised 3.4% in February. Orders are up 12.2% year-to-date and have increased in five of the past six months.
The big story in March was continued strength in orders for civilian aircraft, which increased 71% in March after a 60% gain in February. Orders for airplanes are up 130% year-to-date, reflecting strong export sales by Boeing, in particular.
Excluding the 14% rise in transportation goods, new orders rose 2.8% in March, the biggest gain since August.
And then this....
Stunning 13.8% increase in new home sales
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
U.S. confidence hits 4-yr high in April
Spin as they might it appears that the Entrenched Media can't turn this silk purse into a sows ear......
WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) - U.S. consumer confidence confounded expectations and hit its highest level in almost four years in April, the Conference Board said Tuesday.
The consumer confidence index rose 2.1 points to 109.6 in April from a revised 107.5 in March.
The increase was unexpected. Economists forecast a decrease to about 106.3 in April from the initial estimate for March of 107.2, largely because of higher prices at the gasoline pump, according to a survey conducted by MarketWatch.
The present situation index rose to 136.2 in April from 133.3 in March.
The expectations index jumped to 91.9 in April from 90.3 last month.
"Recent improvements in the labor market have been a major driver behind the rise in confidence in early 2006," said Lynn Franco, director of the Conference Board Consumer Research Center
WASHINGTON (MarketWatch) - U.S. consumer confidence confounded expectations and hit its highest level in almost four years in April, the Conference Board said Tuesday.
The consumer confidence index rose 2.1 points to 109.6 in April from a revised 107.5 in March.
The increase was unexpected. Economists forecast a decrease to about 106.3 in April from the initial estimate for March of 107.2, largely because of higher prices at the gasoline pump, according to a survey conducted by MarketWatch.
The present situation index rose to 136.2 in April from 133.3 in March.
The expectations index jumped to 91.9 in April from 90.3 last month.
"Recent improvements in the labor market have been a major driver behind the rise in confidence in early 2006," said Lynn Franco, director of the Conference Board Consumer Research Center
Quote of the Day
Initially I thought this was from "Scrappleface"
"Blogging can be a useful addition" to the overall news presentation, Rather pointed out. But he added, "Accountability must play a larger role in blogging." Nagler concluded, "The only thing we have is our integrity. We are obligated to get it right."
That's like being advised on racial tolerance by Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.
"Blogging can be a useful addition" to the overall news presentation, Rather pointed out. But he added, "Accountability must play a larger role in blogging." Nagler concluded, "The only thing we have is our integrity. We are obligated to get it right."
That's like being advised on racial tolerance by Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.
Monday, April 24, 2006
Former colleague says the fired Mary McCarthy ‘categorically denies’ being the source of the leak on agency renditions.
She admitted doing it before she denied doing it.
Newsweek/April 24, 2006 - A former CIA officer who was sacked last week after allegedly confessing to leaking secrets has denied she was the source of a controversial Washington Post story about alleged CIA secret detention operations in Eastern Europe, a friend of the operative told NEWSWEEK.
The fired official, Mary O. McCarthy, “categorically denies being the source of the leak,” one of McCarthy’s friends and former colleagues, Rand Beers, said Monday after speaking to McCarthy. Beers said he could not elaborate on this denial and McCarthy herself did not respond to a request for comment left by NEWSWEEK on her home answering machine. A national security advisor to Democratic Party candidate John Kerry during the 2004.
What's with Democrats and this modus operandi, some sort of pervasive leftist mental disease?
Newsweek/April 24, 2006 - A former CIA officer who was sacked last week after allegedly confessing to leaking secrets has denied she was the source of a controversial Washington Post story about alleged CIA secret detention operations in Eastern Europe, a friend of the operative told NEWSWEEK.
The fired official, Mary O. McCarthy, “categorically denies being the source of the leak,” one of McCarthy’s friends and former colleagues, Rand Beers, said Monday after speaking to McCarthy. Beers said he could not elaborate on this denial and McCarthy herself did not respond to a request for comment left by NEWSWEEK on her home answering machine. A national security advisor to Democratic Party candidate John Kerry during the 2004.
What's with Democrats and this modus operandi, some sort of pervasive leftist mental disease?
Blasts Strike Egypt Resort Town
Pi$$ing off more of their own.
Three explosions have been heard in the Egyptian resort town of Dahab accorsing to the Reuters News Agency.
A witness said he heard the blasts and saw smoke in a tourist bazaar area.
AP has this
Update: Haaretz.....Three explosions rocked Egypt's Sinai resort town of Dahab on Monday night, leaving at least 22 people dead and 150 wounded.
Three explosions have been heard in the Egyptian resort town of Dahab accorsing to the Reuters News Agency.
A witness said he heard the blasts and saw smoke in a tourist bazaar area.
AP has this
Update: Haaretz.....Three explosions rocked Egypt's Sinai resort town of Dahab on Monday night, leaving at least 22 people dead and 150 wounded.
Topinka Takes Lead in IL Gov Race
For all my fellow Illini and other interested parties.....
April 24, 2006/Rasmussen--In the race for Illinois Governor, Republican State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka now leads Democratic Governor Rod R. Blagojevich 44% to 38%. In March, Topinka led 43% to 41%.
Topinka has now led in three of the four polls we have conducted of the race, albeit modestly for the most part. Our three-poll rolling average continues to show a tight race, with Topinka barely ahead 41%-40%. However, over the course of those three surveys, Topinka has gained ground each time.
April 24, 2006/Rasmussen--In the race for Illinois Governor, Republican State Treasurer Judy Baar Topinka now leads Democratic Governor Rod R. Blagojevich 44% to 38%. In March, Topinka led 43% to 41%.
Topinka has now led in three of the four polls we have conducted of the race, albeit modestly for the most part. Our three-poll rolling average continues to show a tight race, with Topinka barely ahead 41%-40%. However, over the course of those three surveys, Topinka has gained ground each time.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Iraqi Parliament Meets
The Iraqis are forming a permanent government as I write. IraqtheModel is liveblogging this historic event.
Only the Tip of the Iceberg
By now you know about the CIA officer fired for leaking classified information to the Washington Post. Guess who hired her......None other than Sandy(pants) Burglar.
WASHINGTON – A CIA officer fired for leaking classified information was appointed as special assistant to President Clinton and senior director for intelligence programs by former National Security Adviser Sandy Berger, who pleaded guilty to stealing highly classified documents.
Mary O'Neil McCarthy was fired Thursday for reportedly leaking classified information that contributed to a Washington Post report about alleged secret CIA prisons in Eastern Europe.
She most recently worked for the CIA inspector general's office and served as a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
Public records show McCarthy, a veteran CIA officer, had served as a special assistant to Clinton and, later, President Bush – a tenure that stretched from 1998 to 2001. She testified to the commission that investigated the Sept. 11 attacks.
WASHINGTON – A CIA officer fired for leaking classified information was appointed as special assistant to President Clinton and senior director for intelligence programs by former National Security Adviser Sandy Berger, who pleaded guilty to stealing highly classified documents.
Mary O'Neil McCarthy was fired Thursday for reportedly leaking classified information that contributed to a Washington Post report about alleged secret CIA prisons in Eastern Europe.
She most recently worked for the CIA inspector general's office and served as a senior fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies.
Public records show McCarthy, a veteran CIA officer, had served as a special assistant to Clinton and, later, President Bush – a tenure that stretched from 1998 to 2001. She testified to the commission that investigated the Sept. 11 attacks.
Friday, April 21, 2006
Culture of Corruption?
The pious holier than thou attitude that the left has been taking of late is coming back around to bite them in the a$$.
Rep. Alan Mollohan (D-W.Va.), under fire from Republicans and watchdog groups over his personal financial dealings, will step aside, at least temporarily, as ranking member of the House ethics committee, according to Democratic insiders.
Regardless of who perpetrates it, corruption should be identified and the person(s) involved prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. It happens in both parties and the Dems attempt to make it out as a one party problem will again show themselves to be the disingenuous hypocrits they are.
Rep. Alan Mollohan (D-W.Va.), under fire from Republicans and watchdog groups over his personal financial dealings, will step aside, at least temporarily, as ranking member of the House ethics committee, according to Democratic insiders.
Regardless of who perpetrates it, corruption should be identified and the person(s) involved prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. It happens in both parties and the Dems attempt to make it out as a one party problem will again show themselves to be the disingenuous hypocrits they are.
Shiites Pick al-Maliki as Prime Minister Nominee
New boss same as the old boss?
AP--BAGHDAD, Iraq — Shiite politicians agreed Friday to nominate Jawad al-Maliki as prime minister, replacing the incumbent in a bid to clear the way for a long-delayed new government, two Shiite officials said.
Al-Maliki is a top ally of outgoing Prime Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari, whose nomination had sparked sharp opposition from Sunni Arab and Kurdish leaders and caused a deadlock lasting months.
Leaders of the seven parties that make up the Shiite alliance agreed on al-Maliki's nomination in a meeting Friday evening, said Jalal Eddin al-Sagheer, a member of the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq, the largest party in the alliance.
Al-Maliki won the nomination with agreement from six of the parties, said another SCIRI official, Ridha Jawad Taqi. The seventh party, Fadhila, had presented its own candidate, but only five of seven parties were needed to win a "consensus" agreement on a nominee.
The Shiite nominee is to be presented to a session of parliament on Saturday.
If Sunni Arab and Kurdish parties accept al-Maliki — and some have indicated they will — it could be a breakthrough in the two-month standoff that has prevented the forming of a national unity government.
It's curious that the Sunnis, Kurds etc are silent on this nomination. Will be interesting to see what happens as it is less than 24 hours before the Iraqi Parliment convenes to vote on these nominees. I'll update when I get more background information on al-Maliki.
AP--BAGHDAD, Iraq — Shiite politicians agreed Friday to nominate Jawad al-Maliki as prime minister, replacing the incumbent in a bid to clear the way for a long-delayed new government, two Shiite officials said.
Al-Maliki is a top ally of outgoing Prime Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari, whose nomination had sparked sharp opposition from Sunni Arab and Kurdish leaders and caused a deadlock lasting months.
Leaders of the seven parties that make up the Shiite alliance agreed on al-Maliki's nomination in a meeting Friday evening, said Jalal Eddin al-Sagheer, a member of the Supreme Council for the Islamic Revolution in Iraq, the largest party in the alliance.
Al-Maliki won the nomination with agreement from six of the parties, said another SCIRI official, Ridha Jawad Taqi. The seventh party, Fadhila, had presented its own candidate, but only five of seven parties were needed to win a "consensus" agreement on a nominee.
The Shiite nominee is to be presented to a session of parliament on Saturday.
If Sunni Arab and Kurdish parties accept al-Maliki — and some have indicated they will — it could be a breakthrough in the two-month standoff that has prevented the forming of a national unity government.
It's curious that the Sunnis, Kurds etc are silent on this nomination. Will be interesting to see what happens as it is less than 24 hours before the Iraqi Parliment convenes to vote on these nominees. I'll update when I get more background information on al-Maliki.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
Hillary Meter: Support Down for Former First Lady
These are really daunting numbers. Most people are quite familiar with her and the significant plurality don't like what they see.
Rassmussen--April 19, 2006--Just 26% of Americans say they will definitely vote for Senator Hillary Clinton if she runs for President in 2008. That matches the lowest level of support ever recorded for the former First Lady and is the sixth consecutive Hillary Meter poll showing her solid support below 30%.
The number who would definitely vote against Clinton in 2008 rose a couple of points in our latest survey to 41%.
Senator Clinton's effort to shift perceptions of her politics towards the center have stalled as well. She is viewed as politically liberal by 47% of voters while 35% see her as politically moderate.
Rassmussen--April 19, 2006--Just 26% of Americans say they will definitely vote for Senator Hillary Clinton if she runs for President in 2008. That matches the lowest level of support ever recorded for the former First Lady and is the sixth consecutive Hillary Meter poll showing her solid support below 30%.
The number who would definitely vote against Clinton in 2008 rose a couple of points in our latest survey to 41%.
Senator Clinton's effort to shift perceptions of her politics towards the center have stalled as well. She is viewed as politically liberal by 47% of voters while 35% see her as politically moderate.
Iraqi PM clears way for Shiites to replace him
It appears that al-Jaafari has finally seen the writing on the wall and realized his continued position is untenable
AP--Embattled Iraqi Prime Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari cleared the way Thursday for Shiite leaders to withdraw his nomination for a second term, a step that could break a months-long standoff that is blocking the formation of a new government.
Shiite lawmakers planned to meet Saturday to decide whether to replace Mr. al-Jaafari, who faced fierce opposition from Iraq's Kurdish and Sunni Arab parties.
“The alliance is leaning toward changing [the nomination]. The majority opinion is in favour of this,” said Bassem Sharif, a lawmaker in the seven-party Shiite coalition.
The move represents the first sign that Mr. al-Jaafari has abandoned his quest to keep the prime minister's post, only a day after he had repeated his steadfast refusal to step down.
The United States had put strong pressure on the Shiites to resolve the standoff quickly so they could form a government able to stabilize Iraq amid increasing sectarian violence.
Great news if it holds as Mookies sock puppet was the main hurdle to the formation of a permanent Iraqi government.
AP--Embattled Iraqi Prime Minister Ibrahim al-Jaafari cleared the way Thursday for Shiite leaders to withdraw his nomination for a second term, a step that could break a months-long standoff that is blocking the formation of a new government.
Shiite lawmakers planned to meet Saturday to decide whether to replace Mr. al-Jaafari, who faced fierce opposition from Iraq's Kurdish and Sunni Arab parties.
“The alliance is leaning toward changing [the nomination]. The majority opinion is in favour of this,” said Bassem Sharif, a lawmaker in the seven-party Shiite coalition.
The move represents the first sign that Mr. al-Jaafari has abandoned his quest to keep the prime minister's post, only a day after he had repeated his steadfast refusal to step down.
The United States had put strong pressure on the Shiites to resolve the standoff quickly so they could form a government able to stabilize Iraq amid increasing sectarian violence.
Great news if it holds as Mookies sock puppet was the main hurdle to the formation of a permanent Iraqi government.
Wednesday, April 19, 2006
Kentucky Literature Prof Removed for Vandalizing Pro-life Display
Most off you have read about the deranged professor in Kentucky who encouraged and took part in the destruction of an approved pro life display on campus. She's history.....
HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, KY, April 18, 2006 (LifeSiteNews.com) - Sally Jacobsen, a professor of language and literature at Northern Kentucky University (NKU) has been dismissed from her post after she incited a group of students to destroy an approved pro-life display erected by a campus pro-life student group.
Jacobsen, who also headed the NKU women’s studies program for three years, told the Kentucky Enquirer she had become so emotional at the sight of a field of white crosses planted as a symbolic cemetery for aborted children, that her strong feelings justified her action.
“Any violence perpetrated against that silly display was minor compared to how I felt when I saw it. Some of my students felt the same way, just outraged,” Jacobsen said.
Pulling up the crosses was similar to citizens taking down Nazi displays on Fountain Square, she said.
An ironic comparison considering the "Nazis" most infamous claim to fame was the genocide of millions of innocents.
HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, KY, April 18, 2006 (LifeSiteNews.com) - Sally Jacobsen, a professor of language and literature at Northern Kentucky University (NKU) has been dismissed from her post after she incited a group of students to destroy an approved pro-life display erected by a campus pro-life student group.
Jacobsen, who also headed the NKU women’s studies program for three years, told the Kentucky Enquirer she had become so emotional at the sight of a field of white crosses planted as a symbolic cemetery for aborted children, that her strong feelings justified her action.
“Any violence perpetrated against that silly display was minor compared to how I felt when I saw it. Some of my students felt the same way, just outraged,” Jacobsen said.
Pulling up the crosses was similar to citizens taking down Nazi displays on Fountain Square, she said.
An ironic comparison considering the "Nazis" most infamous claim to fame was the genocide of millions of innocents.
Scott McClellan Resigns
Breaking....
White House press secretary Scott McClellan said Wednesday he is resigning, continuing a shakeup in President George W. Bush's administration that has already yielded a new chief of staff and could lead to a change in the Cabinet.
Appearing with Bush on the White House South Lawn just before the president boarded a helicopter at the start of a trip, McClellan told Bush: "I have given it my all sir and I have given you my all sir, and I will continue to do so as we transition to a new press secretary."
White House press secretary Scott McClellan said Wednesday he is resigning, continuing a shakeup in President George W. Bush's administration that has already yielded a new chief of staff and could lead to a change in the Cabinet.
Appearing with Bush on the White House South Lawn just before the president boarded a helicopter at the start of a trip, McClellan told Bush: "I have given it my all sir and I have given you my all sir, and I will continue to do so as we transition to a new press secretary."
Another Tawana Brawley?
As information filters out it appears that for at least one defendent it would have been physically impossible for him to have raped exotic dancer Crystal Magnum.
Defendant Seiligman went to bank ATM while rape supposedly happening.
12:02 Time stamped photos show girl arriving. Girl leaves, comes back, call friends on cell phone does other things. 12:19 Seiligman calls cab dispatcher 12:24 Seiligman takes cab to bank miles away, uses ATM card (photos prove it is him.) 12:42 after walking back to dorm, Seiligman uses security card to enter dorm. Does not leave.
Also, Seiligman was never interviewed by police. DA seeking reelection in a hard fought campaign took "Dancers" word that he raped her.
In addition the bruises that are allegedly a result of the "rape" are clearly visible in photos taken at or around midnight. Well before the assault supposedly took place.
Not that this proves anything but it is interesting to note that Crystal Magnum has a substance abuse problem, here license has been suspended 3 times, she has an eluding police conviction, a larceny conviction, sand has spent time in jail.
There are also reports that she stole a cab and led police on a high speed chase which ended when she a "narrowly missed" running over a police officer in a last ditch attempt to get away.
No delicate flower this one.
Defendant Seiligman went to bank ATM while rape supposedly happening.
12:02 Time stamped photos show girl arriving. Girl leaves, comes back, call friends on cell phone does other things. 12:19 Seiligman calls cab dispatcher 12:24 Seiligman takes cab to bank miles away, uses ATM card (photos prove it is him.) 12:42 after walking back to dorm, Seiligman uses security card to enter dorm. Does not leave.
Also, Seiligman was never interviewed by police. DA seeking reelection in a hard fought campaign took "Dancers" word that he raped her.
In addition the bruises that are allegedly a result of the "rape" are clearly visible in photos taken at or around midnight. Well before the assault supposedly took place.
Not that this proves anything but it is interesting to note that Crystal Magnum has a substance abuse problem, here license has been suspended 3 times, she has an eluding police conviction, a larceny conviction, sand has spent time in jail.
There are also reports that she stole a cab and led police on a high speed chase which ended when she a "narrowly missed" running over a police officer in a last ditch attempt to get away.
No delicate flower this one.
Tuesday, April 18, 2006
Bush Taps Portman As New Budget Director
Solid pick.
WASHINGTON - President Bush on Tuesday nominated Trade Representative Rob Portman as the White House budget director, turning to a Washington insider and longtime friend as part of an effort to re-energize the administration and boost the president's record-low approval ratings.
Bush said more changes are in the works under his new chief of staff, Joshua Bolten.
"With a new man will come some changes," the president said. But he emphasized anew that Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld's job is safe, despite calls for his resignation from a half dozen retired military commanders.
WASHINGTON - President Bush on Tuesday nominated Trade Representative Rob Portman as the White House budget director, turning to a Washington insider and longtime friend as part of an effort to re-energize the administration and boost the president's record-low approval ratings.
Bush said more changes are in the works under his new chief of staff, Joshua Bolten.
"With a new man will come some changes," the president said. But he emphasized anew that Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld's job is safe, despite calls for his resignation from a half dozen retired military commanders.
Cruise: I will eat the placenta
With a nice Chianti and some fava beans.....
Tom Cruise is planning to eat the placenta after fiancèe Katie Holmes gives birth to their child.
The actor, 43, said: 'I thought that would be good. Very nutritious.'
But when it was pointed out it would be a big meal, he added: 'OK. Maybe I won't.' The baby is due any day and the couple plan to wed in the summer.
What a sick fu%$.
Tom Cruise is planning to eat the placenta after fiancèe Katie Holmes gives birth to their child.
The actor, 43, said: 'I thought that would be good. Very nutritious.'
But when it was pointed out it would be a big meal, he added: 'OK. Maybe I won't.' The baby is due any day and the couple plan to wed in the summer.
What a sick fu%$.
Monday, April 17, 2006
Sheehan joins anti-war protesters at UT
She sure can draw a crowd....
About 50 people, including famed anti-war protester Cindy Sheehan, gathered Monday at the University of Texas to protest the war in Iraq.
Demonstrators, some with signs, assembled on the East Mall and listened to anti-war speeches. The marchers, organized by a UT student group, Campus Antiwar Movement to End the Occupations, planned to march to the nearby ROTC building.
Sheehan said her message to military recruits would be "Don't go into this illegal, immoral war. Once you get over there, it's hard to come home."
A group of about 20 counterdemonstrators also gathered, and a shouting match ensued.
She better stick to holding her "rallies" in Berkely.
About 50 people, including famed anti-war protester Cindy Sheehan, gathered Monday at the University of Texas to protest the war in Iraq.
Demonstrators, some with signs, assembled on the East Mall and listened to anti-war speeches. The marchers, organized by a UT student group, Campus Antiwar Movement to End the Occupations, planned to march to the nearby ROTC building.
Sheehan said her message to military recruits would be "Don't go into this illegal, immoral war. Once you get over there, it's hard to come home."
A group of about 20 counterdemonstrators also gathered, and a shouting match ensued.
She better stick to holding her "rallies" in Berkely.
Partners in Evil
Neville Chamberlain reincarnated....
Last week, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan referred to the thugs running Iran as his “partners”, whom he hopes can be convinced “to come back to the table” for more negotiations.
Here is how his “partner”, Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, defines partnership. He rebuffed Mohamed ElBaradei, head of the UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency, who made a personal visit to Tehran on April 12th to ask its leaders to assure the world of Iran’s good intentions by suspending the regime’s nuclear enrichment program and proving that it is not seeking to develop a nuclear bomb. Not bothering to meet with Dr. ElBaradei himself, Kofi’s most trustworthy partner Ahmadinejad made clear what the outcome of the visit would be, as reported by the official IRNA news agency:
"Our answer to those who are angry about Iran achieving the full nuclear fuel cycle is just one phrase. We say: Be angry at us and die of this anger. Today Iran is a nuclear country and enjoys the position of a powerful country."
Last week, UN Secretary General Kofi Annan referred to the thugs running Iran as his “partners”, whom he hopes can be convinced “to come back to the table” for more negotiations.
Here is how his “partner”, Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, defines partnership. He rebuffed Mohamed ElBaradei, head of the UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency, who made a personal visit to Tehran on April 12th to ask its leaders to assure the world of Iran’s good intentions by suspending the regime’s nuclear enrichment program and proving that it is not seeking to develop a nuclear bomb. Not bothering to meet with Dr. ElBaradei himself, Kofi’s most trustworthy partner Ahmadinejad made clear what the outcome of the visit would be, as reported by the official IRNA news agency:
"Our answer to those who are angry about Iran achieving the full nuclear fuel cycle is just one phrase. We say: Be angry at us and die of this anger. Today Iran is a nuclear country and enjoys the position of a powerful country."
Saturday, April 15, 2006
Generals defend Rumsfeld
Hmmmmm let's see, 19 stars support Rumsfeld 13 stars oppose, guess he stays.
Several retired generals who worked with Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld, including a former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, yesterday decried calls for the secretary's resignation from other retired officers.
President Bush repeated his support for his point man in the war against terrorists.
"I think what we see happening with retired general officers is bad for the military, bad for civil-military relations and bad for the country," retired Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs under Mr. Bush, said in an interview with The Washington Times.
He said he would elaborate his views in an op-ed essay.
This whole story and the EM hype was really ridiculous. A certain number of generals are going to disagree on strategy and tactics regardless of the circumstance. It's been the case since the beginning of our republic from the revolutionary war, the civil war right up untill today. The fact that certain generals disagree with the Secretary of Defense is a dog bites man story if there ever was one.
Several retired generals who worked with Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld, including a former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, yesterday decried calls for the secretary's resignation from other retired officers.
President Bush repeated his support for his point man in the war against terrorists.
"I think what we see happening with retired general officers is bad for the military, bad for civil-military relations and bad for the country," retired Air Force Gen. Richard B. Myers, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs under Mr. Bush, said in an interview with The Washington Times.
He said he would elaborate his views in an op-ed essay.
This whole story and the EM hype was really ridiculous. A certain number of generals are going to disagree on strategy and tactics regardless of the circumstance. It's been the case since the beginning of our republic from the revolutionary war, the civil war right up untill today. The fact that certain generals disagree with the Secretary of Defense is a dog bites man story if there ever was one.
Light Blogging
Sorry about the meager postings over the last few days. Lots of personal matters keeping me hopping. Should be back to normal soon.
Wednesday, April 12, 2006
September 1998 Document: Secret Research Programs Related to WMD (Translation)
Yet another important translation from jveritas. If you've been keeping score we have posted documents proving Sadaams support and collaboration against the US with terrorists including al-qaida, a continuing WMD program including nuclear and an active effort to conceal it all.
In pages 63 and 64 of document Document CMPC-2003-002284 , there is secret and confidential memo dated September 16 1998 concerning a meeting of the National Monitoring Department to discuss how to destroy some “non necessary documents” and keep the necessary one in a safe place according to the memo but the most important part of the memo is a paeagraph on how to handle “The Researches That Cannot Be Declared and that is related with the previous Prohibited Programs of WMD and how to make sure that information about these researches will not leak to the outside because it will be too dangerous if this happened”. Yet another document that proves without any doubt that Saddam Regime never stopped working in his WMD programs and Research and they were just waiting for the opportune moment to produce these WMD again on a large scale. Also remember that in September 1998 the UN inspectors were still in Iraq and they were kicked later on that year after some US air and missile strikes. So most definitely these Secret Research Programs related to WMD were still in existence and may have reached a more advanced stage from late 1998 to late 2002 where during this period of time there were no UN inspectors in Iraq. This document is another proof that we could have never trusted Saddam and that we had all the right to remove his brutal and terrorist regime.
Read the complete translation.
In pages 63 and 64 of document Document CMPC-2003-002284 , there is secret and confidential memo dated September 16 1998 concerning a meeting of the National Monitoring Department to discuss how to destroy some “non necessary documents” and keep the necessary one in a safe place according to the memo but the most important part of the memo is a paeagraph on how to handle “The Researches That Cannot Be Declared and that is related with the previous Prohibited Programs of WMD and how to make sure that information about these researches will not leak to the outside because it will be too dangerous if this happened”. Yet another document that proves without any doubt that Saddam Regime never stopped working in his WMD programs and Research and they were just waiting for the opportune moment to produce these WMD again on a large scale. Also remember that in September 1998 the UN inspectors were still in Iraq and they were kicked later on that year after some US air and missile strikes. So most definitely these Secret Research Programs related to WMD were still in existence and may have reached a more advanced stage from late 1998 to late 2002 where during this period of time there were no UN inspectors in Iraq. This document is another proof that we could have never trusted Saddam and that we had all the right to remove his brutal and terrorist regime.
Read the complete translation.
Tuesday, April 11, 2006
US economy's latest output: better jobs
Another liberal economic canard bites the dust....
CSM--Newest job numbers show that businesses are expanding opportunities in high-wage fields.
The US economy isn't just producing jobs these days, it's also producing good jobs. Alongside the ads for jobs handling a cash register or a spatula are these new opportunities:
• In St. Louis, AFB International is enlisting both technicians, paid $30,000 to $40,000, and PhD scientists, offered $80,000 to $100,000, in its quest for the perfect pet food.
• In Delaware, Honeywell plans to hire people at $40,000 to $100,000 to work in a data-storage center.
• In southern California, some of the latest openings involve working on the railroad, for $35,000 to $70,000 a year. Union Pacific plans to add 2,000 employees altogether.
These reports in the past month symbolize a welcome trend during an economic expansion that at first offered only tepid job gains, both in quantity and quality.
CSM--Newest job numbers show that businesses are expanding opportunities in high-wage fields.
The US economy isn't just producing jobs these days, it's also producing good jobs. Alongside the ads for jobs handling a cash register or a spatula are these new opportunities:
• In St. Louis, AFB International is enlisting both technicians, paid $30,000 to $40,000, and PhD scientists, offered $80,000 to $100,000, in its quest for the perfect pet food.
• In Delaware, Honeywell plans to hire people at $40,000 to $100,000 to work in a data-storage center.
• In southern California, some of the latest openings involve working on the railroad, for $35,000 to $70,000 a year. Union Pacific plans to add 2,000 employees altogether.
These reports in the past month symbolize a welcome trend during an economic expansion that at first offered only tepid job gains, both in quantity and quality.
Porn star's offer to Bin Laden
Bin Laden: Hmmmm Cicci or camel, Cicci or camel?Ananova--Italy's most famous porn star Cicciolina has offered herself to Osama Bin Laden.
The 55-year-old actress said it was about time somebody tackled the terrorist and claimed she could be just the woman for the job.
Speaking at an erotic fair in Bucharest, Romania, Cicciolina said: "It is time someone did something about Bin Laden, and I am ready to do it.
"I am ready to make a deal, he can have me in exchange for an end to his tyranny. My breasts have only ever helped people while Bin Laden has killed thousands of innocent victims."
Monday, April 10, 2006
Malaysian Man Gets $218 Trillion Phone Bill
Must've mistakenly got my kids cellphone bill.....
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — A Malaysian man said he nearly fainted when he recieved a $218 trillion phone bill and was ordered to pay up within 10 days or face prosecution, a newspaper reported Monday.
Yahaya Wahab said he disconnected his late father's phone line in January after he died and settled the 84 ringgit ($23) bill, the New Straits Times reported.
But Telekom Malaysia later sent him a 806,400,000,000,000.01 ringgit ($218 trillion) bill for recent telephone calls along with orders to settle within 10 days or face legal proceedings, the newspaper reported.
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — A Malaysian man said he nearly fainted when he recieved a $218 trillion phone bill and was ordered to pay up within 10 days or face prosecution, a newspaper reported Monday.
Yahaya Wahab said he disconnected his late father's phone line in January after he died and settled the 84 ringgit ($23) bill, the New Straits Times reported.
But Telekom Malaysia later sent him a 806,400,000,000,000.01 ringgit ($218 trillion) bill for recent telephone calls along with orders to settle within 10 days or face legal proceedings, the newspaper reported.
Anti-war protesters interrupt Hillary Clinton's speech at university
Her thighness can expect a lot more of this for the next year and a half. The fact that it's coming from her own base makes it particularly satisfying.
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island (AP) - Anti-war protesters interrupted U.S. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's speech at Brown University by heckling the New York Democrat for four solid minutes before police escorted them out of the auditorium.
Clinton was about eight minutes into her 50-minute speech, "Women Leaders,'' on Saturday night when an unidentified man stood and shouted "Is it leadership to support the war?''
He was quickly joined by two other hecklers as he stood on his seat and continued to criticize Clinton for her vote to authorize the U.S. invasion of Iraq and her subsequent votes to fund the war.
PROVIDENCE, Rhode Island (AP) - Anti-war protesters interrupted U.S. Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton's speech at Brown University by heckling the New York Democrat for four solid minutes before police escorted them out of the auditorium.
Clinton was about eight minutes into her 50-minute speech, "Women Leaders,'' on Saturday night when an unidentified man stood and shouted "Is it leadership to support the war?''
He was quickly joined by two other hecklers as he stood on his seat and continued to criticize Clinton for her vote to authorize the U.S. invasion of Iraq and her subsequent votes to fund the war.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
1997 Document: Orders To Remove All Information Related To WMD From Computers (Translation)
Here is the latest find from jveritas....
Pages 99 to129 of document CMPC-2003-00013038 dated in March 1997, many years after Saddam was supposed to fully comply with the UN resolutions to disarm his WMD and reveal everything to the UN inspectors, include many correspondences from the Iraqi intelligence service asking their employees not to store any information related to WMD and remove any information they have regarding WMD from their computers and records. This is yet another document that shows how Saddam Regime was doing all their efforts to hide their WMD programs or any information relate to it from the UN inspectors, a clear sign that this regime never really complied and they always wanted to keep their WMD programs and production.
Beginning of Translation of Page 107:
Subject: Pledge
I am the signatory below, I pledge not to store any information related to the Prohibited Weapons on any computer that we have installed and evacuate the related numbered magnetic discs to outside the location. And for this I sign
Signature
Name: Issam Shaker
Position: Director of Administration in the Fourth Directory
Directory: The Forth Directory
Date: 26/3/1997
Pages 99 to129 of document CMPC-2003-00013038 dated in March 1997, many years after Saddam was supposed to fully comply with the UN resolutions to disarm his WMD and reveal everything to the UN inspectors, include many correspondences from the Iraqi intelligence service asking their employees not to store any information related to WMD and remove any information they have regarding WMD from their computers and records. This is yet another document that shows how Saddam Regime was doing all their efforts to hide their WMD programs or any information relate to it from the UN inspectors, a clear sign that this regime never really complied and they always wanted to keep their WMD programs and production.
Beginning of Translation of Page 107:
Subject: Pledge
I am the signatory below, I pledge not to store any information related to the Prohibited Weapons on any computer that we have installed and evacuate the related numbered magnetic discs to outside the location. And for this I sign
Signature
Name: Issam Shaker
Position: Director of Administration in the Fourth Directory
Directory: The Forth Directory
Date: 26/3/1997
Friday, April 07, 2006
Misleading Headline of the Week
"W. House Does Not Dispute Bush leak Allegation"
By a multiple times past winner......Reuters
FYI Reuters, Harry Reid, Nancy Pelosi etc. etc. a President may disclose or convey information at his pleasure. Presidents by definition cannot "leak" information because it is at their discretion what is and is not presented to the public.
By a multiple times past winner......Reuters
FYI Reuters, Harry Reid, Nancy Pelosi etc. etc. a President may disclose or convey information at his pleasure. Presidents by definition cannot "leak" information because it is at their discretion what is and is not presented to the public.
EU Ends Direct Aid to Palestinian Gov't
In a rare display of spine....
BRUSSELS, Belgium -- The European Union has cut off direct aid payments to the Hamas-led Palestinian government because of its refusal to renounce violence and recognize Israel, the EU's executive office said Friday.
Hamas said the decision amounts to collective punishment of Palestinian people. The 25-nation EU is the largest international donor to Palestinian Authority. (And, the EU is exercising their democratic right to do with their money what they choose).
"We call on the EU not to adopt such decisions and policies, which we consider collective punishment against the Palestinian people, because they exercised their democratic right through elections," said legislator Mushir al-Masri, head of Hamas' parliament faction.
European Commission spokeswoman Emma Udwin said some $36.9 million marked for release later this year was at stake. She added that the temporary aid cut-off would not affect humanitarian aid sent to non-governmental organizations or to U.N. relief agencies.
BRUSSELS, Belgium -- The European Union has cut off direct aid payments to the Hamas-led Palestinian government because of its refusal to renounce violence and recognize Israel, the EU's executive office said Friday.
Hamas said the decision amounts to collective punishment of Palestinian people. The 25-nation EU is the largest international donor to Palestinian Authority. (And, the EU is exercising their democratic right to do with their money what they choose).
"We call on the EU not to adopt such decisions and policies, which we consider collective punishment against the Palestinian people, because they exercised their democratic right through elections," said legislator Mushir al-Masri, head of Hamas' parliament faction.
European Commission spokeswoman Emma Udwin said some $36.9 million marked for release later this year was at stake. She added that the temporary aid cut-off would not affect humanitarian aid sent to non-governmental organizations or to U.N. relief agencies.
Unemployment Drops to 4.7%
As hard as they will try the Entrenched Media will have a hard time spinning this negatively. That's 5.2 Million jobs added since August 2003.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) — Employers added 211,000 jobs in March and the unemployment rate unexpectedly slipped back to a 4-1/2-year low 4.7%, the government said Friday.
The report is likely to keep concern about potential inflation on the front burner.
The pace of hiring last month was stronger than the 190,000 jobs that had been forecast by analysts, who also had expected the unemployment rate to be unchanged at February's 4.8%.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) — Employers added 211,000 jobs in March and the unemployment rate unexpectedly slipped back to a 4-1/2-year low 4.7%, the government said Friday.
The report is likely to keep concern about potential inflation on the front burner.
The pace of hiring last month was stronger than the 190,000 jobs that had been forecast by analysts, who also had expected the unemployment rate to be unchanged at February's 4.8%.
Thursday, April 06, 2006
Top insurgent 'caught in Baghdad'
Time to break out the bamboo shoots and thumbscrews....
The US military says it has captured a leading figure in the Iraqi insurgency in the capital Baghdad.
Muhammad al-Ubaydi is said to have been a close associate of the head of al-Qaeda in Iraq, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi.
Zarqawi is Iraq's most notorious insurgent, associated with bombings and the beheading of foreign hostages.
The US military said Mr Ubaydi was captured on 7 March, but the announcement of his capture was delayed until DNA tests confirmed his identity.
It said he was a senior intelligence official during Saddam Hussein's regime and a prime suspect in the kidnapping of Italian journalist Giuliana Sgrena last year.
The US military says it has captured a leading figure in the Iraqi insurgency in the capital Baghdad.
Muhammad al-Ubaydi is said to have been a close associate of the head of al-Qaeda in Iraq, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi.
Zarqawi is Iraq's most notorious insurgent, associated with bombings and the beheading of foreign hostages.
The US military said Mr Ubaydi was captured on 7 March, but the announcement of his capture was delayed until DNA tests confirmed his identity.
It said he was a senior intelligence official during Saddam Hussein's regime and a prime suspect in the kidnapping of Italian journalist Giuliana Sgrena last year.
March 2001 Document: Saddam Regime Recruits Suicide Terrorists to Hit US Interests (Translation
Another great find by our friendly translating workhorse jveritas. Here we have additional evidence that Saadam was actively searching for terrorists to "strike American interests"
Page 6 from document BIAP 2003-000654 is a Top Secret letter dated March/11/2001 six months prior to 9/11/2001, proves that not only Saddam Regime supported terrorists organization like Hamas and Al Qaeda as we have learned from other documents but also they were recruiting Suicide Terrorist Bombers to hit US interests. Saddam Regime was a TERRORIST REGIME and there was no other way but to destroy it after 9/11.
Beginning of the translation of page 6 from document BIAP 2003-000654
In the Name of God the Merciful The Compassionate
Top Secret
The Command of Ali Bin Abi Taleb Air Force Base
No 3/6/104
Date 11 March 2001
To all the Units
Subject: Volunteer for Suicide Mission
The top secret letter 2205 of the Military Branch of Al Qadisya on 4/3/2001 announced by the top secret letter 246 from the Command of the military sector of Zi Kar on 8/3/2001 announced to us by the top secret letter 154 from the Command of Ali Military Division on 10/3/2001 we ask to provide that Division with the names of those who desire to volunteer for Suicide Mission to liberate Palestine and to strike American Interests and according what is shown below to please review and inform us.
Air Brigadier General
Abdel Magid Hammot Ali
Commander of Ali Bin Abi Taleb Air Force Base
Air Colonel
Mohamad Majed Mohamadi.
Page 6 from document BIAP 2003-000654 is a Top Secret letter dated March/11/2001 six months prior to 9/11/2001, proves that not only Saddam Regime supported terrorists organization like Hamas and Al Qaeda as we have learned from other documents but also they were recruiting Suicide Terrorist Bombers to hit US interests. Saddam Regime was a TERRORIST REGIME and there was no other way but to destroy it after 9/11.
Beginning of the translation of page 6 from document BIAP 2003-000654
In the Name of God the Merciful The Compassionate
Top Secret
The Command of Ali Bin Abi Taleb Air Force Base
No 3/6/104
Date 11 March 2001
To all the Units
Subject: Volunteer for Suicide Mission
The top secret letter 2205 of the Military Branch of Al Qadisya on 4/3/2001 announced by the top secret letter 246 from the Command of the military sector of Zi Kar on 8/3/2001 announced to us by the top secret letter 154 from the Command of Ali Military Division on 10/3/2001 we ask to provide that Division with the names of those who desire to volunteer for Suicide Mission to liberate Palestine and to strike American Interests and according what is shown below to please review and inform us.
Air Brigadier General
Abdel Magid Hammot Ali
Commander of Ali Bin Abi Taleb Air Force Base
Air Colonel
Mohamad Majed Mohamadi.
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
LET US VOTE: ALIENS
First an impassioned cry to allow felons to vote, now non-citizens, whats next, ballots in Belarus?
April 5, 2006 -- A push to give Big Apple residents who aren't citizens the right to vote kicks off today, with throngs of immigrants flocking to City Hall to back legislation giving them access to the ballot box.
The Voting Rights Restoration Act would allow permanent residents, or "green card" holders, who have lived in the city for more than six months to vote in local elections.
"We have a large number of people who are documented and pay taxes, but can't vote," said Councilman Kendall Stewart (D-Manhattan), chairman of the council's Immigration Committee and a prime sponsor of the bill.
But Councilman James Oddo (R-S.I), who opposes the bill, called it "an affront on hardworking Americans."
April 5, 2006 -- A push to give Big Apple residents who aren't citizens the right to vote kicks off today, with throngs of immigrants flocking to City Hall to back legislation giving them access to the ballot box.
The Voting Rights Restoration Act would allow permanent residents, or "green card" holders, who have lived in the city for more than six months to vote in local elections.
"We have a large number of people who are documented and pay taxes, but can't vote," said Councilman Kendall Stewart (D-Manhattan), chairman of the council's Immigration Committee and a prime sponsor of the bill.
But Councilman James Oddo (R-S.I), who opposes the bill, called it "an affront on hardworking Americans."
Couric announces she is leaving Today
The perky one has made it official, she is leaving the Today Show to take the anchor's job at CBS. Talk about gravitas!
Tuesday, April 04, 2006
Saddam Regime Document: SADDAM MET WITH HIS NUCLEAR GROUP IN 2002 (Translation)
The latest from our ever vigilant friend jveritas. Click here for full text.
Pages 186 and 193 of document BIAP 2003 00090 carry one of the most important information revealed so far regarding Saddam Nuclear Program. In these two pages which document a summary of meetings held by members of The Military Office of the Iraqi Baath Party and dated May/12/2002 and June/9/2002 they have a section that discuss Saddam Hussein meeting with the Chairman of the Atomic Energy and an elite of researchers.
I first thought that this may be a reference to a meeting between Saddam and the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) so I called both of IAEA offices in New York and Vienna to check if Saddam had any meeting with the IAEA Chairman prior to May 2002, and they indicated to me that they do not recall any such meeting of IAEA chairman and Saddam prior to May 2002.
What is also important is that President Bush in a speech dated October 7 2002 mentioned that Saddam has held numerous meetings with his nuclear Scientists and I quite from President Bush “The evidence indicates that Iraq is reconstituting its nuclear weapons program. Saddam Hussein has held numerous meetings with Iraqi nuclear scientists, a group he calls his "nuclear mujahideen" -- his nuclear holy warriors” (see: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2002/10/20021007-8.html ).
So this document shows that it is true that in 2002 Saddam still has an active nuclear program if he still has a Chairman of the Atomic Energy Group and a group of Nuclear Scientists.
Sadaam had no nuclear program, right?
Pages 186 and 193 of document BIAP 2003 00090 carry one of the most important information revealed so far regarding Saddam Nuclear Program. In these two pages which document a summary of meetings held by members of The Military Office of the Iraqi Baath Party and dated May/12/2002 and June/9/2002 they have a section that discuss Saddam Hussein meeting with the Chairman of the Atomic Energy and an elite of researchers.
I first thought that this may be a reference to a meeting between Saddam and the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) so I called both of IAEA offices in New York and Vienna to check if Saddam had any meeting with the IAEA Chairman prior to May 2002, and they indicated to me that they do not recall any such meeting of IAEA chairman and Saddam prior to May 2002.
What is also important is that President Bush in a speech dated October 7 2002 mentioned that Saddam has held numerous meetings with his nuclear Scientists and I quite from President Bush “The evidence indicates that Iraq is reconstituting its nuclear weapons program. Saddam Hussein has held numerous meetings with Iraqi nuclear scientists, a group he calls his "nuclear mujahideen" -- his nuclear holy warriors” (see: http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2002/10/20021007-8.html ).
So this document shows that it is true that in 2002 Saddam still has an active nuclear program if he still has a Chairman of the Atomic Energy Group and a group of Nuclear Scientists.
Sadaam had no nuclear program, right?
White House not the only home Bill & Hill left a shambles
Remember, you can't spell Hillbilly without "Hill"....
Since first lady Laura Bush has outed Hillary Clinton as a third-rate housekeeper with tacky taste, the Track feels compelled to throw in our two cents.
Let’s just say there was a reason why Bubba and his bride felt so comfy shacked up summer after summer near the pig sty on Dick Friedman’s Vineyard farm. America’s Guests were, in a word, slobs!
Rewind to the Summer of ’94, shortly after the limousine liberals wound up their summer vacation on the Rock by tearfully bidding adieu to their favorite holiday hangers-on at the airport in Edgartown.
After Air Force One blew off the isle, assorted Secret Service peeps, White House staffers, some islanders and, of course, the Track, headed back to the Friedman estate to kick back and celebrate the end of Bill and Hill’s Excellent (for them) Vacation.
The merriment - naturellement - led us to the well-appointed Adirondacks-style guest house vacated by the First Couple only hours before. And that’s where we were met by a load of dirty dishes in the sink, wet towels on the floor of the bathroom and an unmade bed.
Were these two raised by wolves?
And did we mention the overflowing trash can filled with the remains of four Dove Bars and some empty juice box containers. Yes, the Leader of the Free World sipped juice like a toddler from that tiny straw. Explains a lot, doesn’t it?
Anyone surprised by this?
Since first lady Laura Bush has outed Hillary Clinton as a third-rate housekeeper with tacky taste, the Track feels compelled to throw in our two cents.
Let’s just say there was a reason why Bubba and his bride felt so comfy shacked up summer after summer near the pig sty on Dick Friedman’s Vineyard farm. America’s Guests were, in a word, slobs!
Rewind to the Summer of ’94, shortly after the limousine liberals wound up their summer vacation on the Rock by tearfully bidding adieu to their favorite holiday hangers-on at the airport in Edgartown.
After Air Force One blew off the isle, assorted Secret Service peeps, White House staffers, some islanders and, of course, the Track, headed back to the Friedman estate to kick back and celebrate the end of Bill and Hill’s Excellent (for them) Vacation.
The merriment - naturellement - led us to the well-appointed Adirondacks-style guest house vacated by the First Couple only hours before. And that’s where we were met by a load of dirty dishes in the sink, wet towels on the floor of the bathroom and an unmade bed.
Were these two raised by wolves?
And did we mention the overflowing trash can filled with the remains of four Dove Bars and some empty juice box containers. Yes, the Leader of the Free World sipped juice like a toddler from that tiny straw. Explains a lot, doesn’t it?
Anyone surprised by this?
Monday, April 03, 2006
Supreme Court Rejects War Powers Case
An indication of how Kennedy is going to rule on war powers?
WASHINGTON/WAPO -- A divided Supreme Court on Monday rejected an appeal from a man held until recently as an enemy combatant without traditional legal rights, in effect sidestepping a challenge to Bush administration wartime detention powers.
Jose Padilla was moved in January to Miami to face criminal charges, and the government argued that the appeal over his indefinite detention was now pointless.
Three justices said the court should have agreed to take up the case anyway: Justices David H. Souter, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen Breyer.
An appeals court panel had all but called for the court to deal with the case, saying it was troubled by the Bush administration's change in legal strategy _ after holding Padilla more than three years without charges.
WASHINGTON/WAPO -- A divided Supreme Court on Monday rejected an appeal from a man held until recently as an enemy combatant without traditional legal rights, in effect sidestepping a challenge to Bush administration wartime detention powers.
Jose Padilla was moved in January to Miami to face criminal charges, and the government argued that the appeal over his indefinite detention was now pointless.
Three justices said the court should have agreed to take up the case anyway: Justices David H. Souter, Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Stephen Breyer.
An appeals court panel had all but called for the court to deal with the case, saying it was troubled by the Bush administration's change in legal strategy _ after holding Padilla more than three years without charges.
2003 Document: Iraqi Intelligence Asks Hamas To Conduct Terrorist Attacks Against The US.
The tenacious jveritas offers us more interesting translations from the 40,000+ documents released a few weeks back. This one offers encouragment and support for Hamas to attack the US throughout the world.
Page 22 of this document IISP-2003-00026588 which was written during the Iraq War in 2003 is from an Iraqi Intelligence officer to the Director of the Iraqi Intelligence Apparatus where he discussed with him information about Hamas eagerness to participate in the war against the US via the Palestinians students who are studying in Iraq. The intelligence officer expressed his great gratitude to Hamas but he added that the Iraqi regime will be happier if Hamas attacks US and Israeli interests inside and outside Israel. “however we will be happier if we hear about any campaign that target the US and Zionist interests inside the occupied territories and outside it.”
This document is yet another clear indication of Saddam regime undeniable connection and support to terrorists, and that this regime is a terrorist one.
Beginning of the translation of page 22
In the Name of God the Most Merciful the Most Compassionate
The Respectful Mr. Director of the Intelligence Apparatus
Subject: Hamas Movement
We would like to inform your Excellency with the following:
1.The representative of the Movement in Baghdad and told us the following:
A. The leadership of the Movement in Damascus contacted him several times since the start of the brutal American aggression on Iraq renewing the covenant of standing with us with all the capabilites of the Movement and the leadership of the Movement saluted the Jihad resistance stand of our heroic people in all its sections and its brave confrontation to the enemy attack with all the bravery, and patience, and absolute faith.
B. Dr. Abdel Aziz Al Rantisi (Al Rantisi became later on the leader of Hamas and he was killed in an Israeli air strike in April 2004.) contacted him from Gaza and he send his regards and the that of the Palestinian people to the leadership and the Iraqi people and they saluted their heroic confrontation to the American barbaric attack and they renewed the stand of the Palestinian people inside the occupied territories with Iraq in heart and body and Rantisi confirmed that he is asking to open the Arab borders to the volunteers to participate with the Iraqi people in its honorable war against of the forces of infidels and they will conduct demonstrations and suicide operations in support of the honorable stand of the Iraq.
2. The representative informed us about the departure of his family but he stayed and he is under our desecration to execute what is asked from him; he and his group from the members of the Movement who study in the country.
3. We assured him with our gratitude to their position and that it is not strange to the principles of the Movement and its work, and the sincerity of its intentions, however we will be happier if we hear about any campaign that targets the US and Zionist interests inside the occupied territories and outside it.
Please review, with regards.
End of translation
Page 22 of this document IISP-2003-00026588 which was written during the Iraq War in 2003 is from an Iraqi Intelligence officer to the Director of the Iraqi Intelligence Apparatus where he discussed with him information about Hamas eagerness to participate in the war against the US via the Palestinians students who are studying in Iraq. The intelligence officer expressed his great gratitude to Hamas but he added that the Iraqi regime will be happier if Hamas attacks US and Israeli interests inside and outside Israel. “however we will be happier if we hear about any campaign that target the US and Zionist interests inside the occupied territories and outside it.”
This document is yet another clear indication of Saddam regime undeniable connection and support to terrorists, and that this regime is a terrorist one.
Beginning of the translation of page 22
In the Name of God the Most Merciful the Most Compassionate
The Respectful Mr. Director of the Intelligence Apparatus
Subject: Hamas Movement
We would like to inform your Excellency with the following:
1.The representative of the Movement in Baghdad and told us the following:
A. The leadership of the Movement in Damascus contacted him several times since the start of the brutal American aggression on Iraq renewing the covenant of standing with us with all the capabilites of the Movement and the leadership of the Movement saluted the Jihad resistance stand of our heroic people in all its sections and its brave confrontation to the enemy attack with all the bravery, and patience, and absolute faith.
B. Dr. Abdel Aziz Al Rantisi (Al Rantisi became later on the leader of Hamas and he was killed in an Israeli air strike in April 2004.) contacted him from Gaza and he send his regards and the that of the Palestinian people to the leadership and the Iraqi people and they saluted their heroic confrontation to the American barbaric attack and they renewed the stand of the Palestinian people inside the occupied territories with Iraq in heart and body and Rantisi confirmed that he is asking to open the Arab borders to the volunteers to participate with the Iraqi people in its honorable war against of the forces of infidels and they will conduct demonstrations and suicide operations in support of the honorable stand of the Iraq.
2. The representative informed us about the departure of his family but he stayed and he is under our desecration to execute what is asked from him; he and his group from the members of the Movement who study in the country.
3. We assured him with our gratitude to their position and that it is not strange to the principles of the Movement and its work, and the sincerity of its intentions, however we will be happier if we hear about any campaign that targets the US and Zionist interests inside the occupied territories and outside it.
Please review, with regards.
End of translation
Saturday, April 01, 2006
Successful Raid
The Pirate Armada made a sucessful boarding of the Progressive flagship, "The Daily Kos" Saturday at noon. Our crusty group of picaroons and privateers were victorious having eviscerated the scurvy blaggards to a man. Details at The Dread Pundit Bluto.
Iraq Shias break ranks, turn on PM Jaafari
We first reported on this two weeks ago. Looks as though we finally have our long awaited confirmation.
BAGHDAD/Reuters - Senior members of Iraq’s ruling Shia Alliance bloc called publicly for the first time on Saturday for Ibrahim Al Jaafari to step down as prime minister to break months of deadlock over a national unity government.
“I call on Jaafari to take a courageous step and set a fine example by stepping down,” Kasim Daoud, a senior member of the independent group within the Alliance, told Reuters.
Other senior Alliance officials, speaking anonymously, confirmed that four of seven main groups within the bloc wanted Jaafari to give up the nomination for a second term if, as is all but certain, he fails to persuade minority Sunni and Kurdish parties to drop their refusal to serve in a cabinet under him.
“There is a broad trend inside the Alliance who want Jaafari to do this (step aside) and we expect him to do so,” Daoud said.
BAGHDAD/Reuters - Senior members of Iraq’s ruling Shia Alliance bloc called publicly for the first time on Saturday for Ibrahim Al Jaafari to step down as prime minister to break months of deadlock over a national unity government.
“I call on Jaafari to take a courageous step and set a fine example by stepping down,” Kasim Daoud, a senior member of the independent group within the Alliance, told Reuters.
Other senior Alliance officials, speaking anonymously, confirmed that four of seven main groups within the bloc wanted Jaafari to give up the nomination for a second term if, as is all but certain, he fails to persuade minority Sunni and Kurdish parties to drop their refusal to serve in a cabinet under him.
“There is a broad trend inside the Alliance who want Jaafari to do this (step aside) and we expect him to do so,” Daoud said.
Our original report
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