26 July 2004
in the mood for powerpoint?
sooper misc ppt
if you're interested in different 'takes' on the art of PowerPoint, then check this out....jim
if you're interested in different 'takes' on the art of PowerPoint, then check this out....jim
24 July 2004
Ethel the Blog: this smacks of reason!
Ethel the Blog
"Now the excerpts from the chapter by Michael Levine, a 25-year veteran of the DEA.
When President Nixon first declared war on drugs in 1971, there were fewer than 500,000 hard-core addicts in the entire nation, most of whom were addicted to heroin. Three decades later, despite the expenditure of $1 trillion in tax dollars, the number of hard-core addicts is shortly expected to exceed five million. Our nation has become the supermarket of the drug world, with a wider variety and bigger supply of drugs at cheaper prices than ever before. The problem now not only affects every town and hamlet on the map, but it is difficult to find a family anywhere that is not somehow affected. P. 258
The Chang Mai factory the CIA prevented me from destroying was the source of massive amounts of heroin being smuggled into the US in the bodies and body bags of GIs killed in Vietnam. P. 264
My unit, the Hard Narcotics Smuggling Squad, was charged with investigating all heroin and cocaine smuggling through the Port of New York."....
"Now the excerpts from the chapter by Michael Levine, a 25-year veteran of the DEA.
When President Nixon first declared war on drugs in 1971, there were fewer than 500,000 hard-core addicts in the entire nation, most of whom were addicted to heroin. Three decades later, despite the expenditure of $1 trillion in tax dollars, the number of hard-core addicts is shortly expected to exceed five million. Our nation has become the supermarket of the drug world, with a wider variety and bigger supply of drugs at cheaper prices than ever before. The problem now not only affects every town and hamlet on the map, but it is difficult to find a family anywhere that is not somehow affected. P. 258
The Chang Mai factory the CIA prevented me from destroying was the source of massive amounts of heroin being smuggled into the US in the bodies and body bags of GIs killed in Vietnam. P. 264
My unit, the Hard Narcotics Smuggling Squad, was charged with investigating all heroin and cocaine smuggling through the Port of New York."....
Ethel the Blog: Lock-down on the horizon
Ethel the Blog:
"PRIMING THE PROLES"
The drumbeat gets louder as the loyal scribblers of the cabal keep their latest talking point going.
Federal election officials will meet next week with officials of the Department of Homeland Security to discuss whether and how they would delay the November presidential election in the event of a catastrophic terrorist attack, a top elections official told MSNBC on Monday.
The official, DeForest B. Soaries Jr., chairman of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, denied in an interview on MSNBC's Countdown that federal officials had any plans to postpone the election, but he confirmed a report in the new edition of Newsweek magazine that the panel was seeking to establish a process to do so should it become necessary.
... So where the hell is all the tough talk now? Where's Mr. 'Bring It On!' when it comes to maintaining the cornerstone of American democracy come hell or high water? How about somebody in the cabal finding (or at least borrowing) some real cojones and saying, 'No matter what happens, some two-bit punk with a grievance and a fist full of explosives isn't going to f*ck with the basis of our democracy. And it's f*cking ludicrous to think that a group consisting of a few hundred members at most is going to conquer a country with the biggest economy and military the world has ever seen.' Oh, wait a minute. That's not the point, is it?posted by Steven Baum 7/13/2004 10:33:10 AM | link "
"PRIMING THE PROLES"
The drumbeat gets louder as the loyal scribblers of the cabal keep their latest talking point going.
Federal election officials will meet next week with officials of the Department of Homeland Security to discuss whether and how they would delay the November presidential election in the event of a catastrophic terrorist attack, a top elections official told MSNBC on Monday.
The official, DeForest B. Soaries Jr., chairman of the U.S. Election Assistance Commission, denied in an interview on MSNBC's Countdown that federal officials had any plans to postpone the election, but he confirmed a report in the new edition of Newsweek magazine that the panel was seeking to establish a process to do so should it become necessary.
... So where the hell is all the tough talk now? Where's Mr. 'Bring It On!' when it comes to maintaining the cornerstone of American democracy come hell or high water? How about somebody in the cabal finding (or at least borrowing) some real cojones and saying, 'No matter what happens, some two-bit punk with a grievance and a fist full of explosives isn't going to f*ck with the basis of our democracy. And it's f*cking ludicrous to think that a group consisting of a few hundred members at most is going to conquer a country with the biggest economy and military the world has ever seen.' Oh, wait a minute. That's not the point, is it?posted by Steven Baum 7/13/2004 10:33:10 AM | link "
Ethel the Blog: Hold your enemies closer still.
Ethel the Blog:
"Allowing suspension of the elections on just the threat of a terror attack would create a hole in the legislation big enough to drive an oil tanker, or an open dictatorship, through. Since the legislation has not been seen yet we do not know what it will say. Once introduced, the bill would then go into Senate and House Committees (Republican controlled) where the language could easily be modified to give discretionary power to the Administration. At that moment the Constitution would overtly cease to have any operational meaning at all. The separation of powers would vanish.
Judging from the news stories tonight we will probably see the legislation introduced fairly quickly. From the instant it appears, this legislation must be tracked daily, even hourly, at http://thomas.loc.gov.
...
This of course assumes that the debate won't be shrouded in the 'national security' cloak preferred by budding totalitarians everywhere, and that the language will be too vague (or exact, for that matter) for Scalia et al. to arrive at whatever conclusion is required for the cabal to stay in control.
posted by Steven Baum 7/13/2004 01:33:49 PM | link "
"Allowing suspension of the elections on just the threat of a terror attack would create a hole in the legislation big enough to drive an oil tanker, or an open dictatorship, through. Since the legislation has not been seen yet we do not know what it will say. Once introduced, the bill would then go into Senate and House Committees (Republican controlled) where the language could easily be modified to give discretionary power to the Administration. At that moment the Constitution would overtly cease to have any operational meaning at all. The separation of powers would vanish.
Judging from the news stories tonight we will probably see the legislation introduced fairly quickly. From the instant it appears, this legislation must be tracked daily, even hourly, at http://thomas.loc.gov.
...
This of course assumes that the debate won't be shrouded in the 'national security' cloak preferred by budding totalitarians everywhere, and that the language will be too vague (or exact, for that matter) for Scalia et al. to arrive at whatever conclusion is required for the cabal to stay in control.
posted by Steven Baum 7/13/2004 01:33:49 PM | link "
who you sweatin'?
No Sweat -- Union-Made Sweatshop-Free Casual Apparel: "
Bienestar International manufactures union-made casual clothing under the brand name No Sweat. Our clothing is produced by independent trade union members in the US, Canada, and the developing world. We believe that the most viable response to globalization is a global labor movement.
No Sweat defines the market for goods that support independent trade unions - the only historically proven solution to sweatshops. We market direct to consumers, relying primarily on internet sales for distribution. The savings in advertising offset our higher labor costs, enabling us to provide a competitive product and a living wage. We rely on you to help us spread the word! Check out our new Globalize THIS. Together we can show the garment industry what a real fashion statement looks like. Shop No Sweat Now! - 100% union-made, sweatshop-free shopping!"
Bienestar International manufactures union-made casual clothing under the brand name No Sweat. Our clothing is produced by independent trade union members in the US, Canada, and the developing world. We believe that the most viable response to globalization is a global labor movement.
No Sweat defines the market for goods that support independent trade unions - the only historically proven solution to sweatshops. We market direct to consumers, relying primarily on internet sales for distribution. The savings in advertising offset our higher labor costs, enabling us to provide a competitive product and a living wage. We rely on you to help us spread the word! Check out our new Globalize THIS. Together we can show the garment industry what a real fashion statement looks like. Shop No Sweat Now! - 100% union-made, sweatshop-free shopping!"
bankruptcy laws for the corporate crowd only!
us airways did it. why can't i?
from Ethel the Blog
http://stommel.tamu.edu/~baum/ethel/blogger.html
The credit mafia claims that it's really, really being hurt by people who use the current bankruptcy laws to "game" the system, i.e. to run up debts, declare bankruptcy, and keep repeating the process. This is belied by evidence indicating that over 90% of bankruptcies result from job loss, enormous medical bills not covered by insurance, and divorce, with only 3% of those filing for bankruptcy fitting the category of "abuser." So just how badly is this supposed holocaust of abuse hurting the credit mafia?
In 2003, credit-card companies racked up about $30.2 billion in profits, according to CardTrak, a consumer group tracking bank credit cards. That's up from $20.5 billion in 2000 and $6.4 billion in 1990.
from Ethel the Blog
http://stommel.tamu.edu/~baum/ethel/blogger.html
The credit mafia claims that it's really, really being hurt by people who use the current bankruptcy laws to "game" the system, i.e. to run up debts, declare bankruptcy, and keep repeating the process. This is belied by evidence indicating that over 90% of bankruptcies result from job loss, enormous medical bills not covered by insurance, and divorce, with only 3% of those filing for bankruptcy fitting the category of "abuser." So just how badly is this supposed holocaust of abuse hurting the credit mafia?
In 2003, credit-card companies racked up about $30.2 billion in profits, according to CardTrak, a consumer group tracking bank credit cards. That's up from $20.5 billion in 2000 and $6.4 billion in 1990.
well maybe i like to glow in dark
Radiation Levels in Pittsburgh, PA.: "Radiation Levels in Pittsburgh, PA.
The background radiation level in my Pittsburgh office is currently 13.55 micro-roentgens per hour.
That's equivalent to about 12 chest X-rays per year. "
The background radiation level in my Pittsburgh office is currently 13.55 micro-roentgens per hour.
That's equivalent to about 12 chest X-rays per year. "
Forums - North Korea Says "Too Bad" Over US Nuclear Abandonment Proposal
Forums - North Korea Says "Too Bad" Over US Nuclear Abandonment Proposal: "North Korea Nixes U.S. Nuclear Proposal
BY: By SANG-HUN CHOE
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Saturday July 24, 2004
SEOUL, South Korea - North Korea on Saturday rejected a U.S. suggestion that it follow the example of Libya and abandon its nuclear weapons programs to open the way for economic aid and improved ties with Washington.
Calling the American proposal 'nothing but a sham offer,' the communist state reiterated that it would freeze its nuclear facilities as a first step toward their dismantling, but only if Washington provides energy aid, lifts economic sanctions and delists the North as a sponsor of terrorism.
'It is a daydream for the U.S. to contemplate forcing the (North) to lay down arms first under the situation where both are in a state of armistice and at war technically,' said an unidentified spokesman of the North's Foreign Ministry."
BY: By SANG-HUN CHOE
ASSOCIATED PRESS
Saturday July 24, 2004
SEOUL, South Korea - North Korea on Saturday rejected a U.S. suggestion that it follow the example of Libya and abandon its nuclear weapons programs to open the way for economic aid and improved ties with Washington.
Calling the American proposal 'nothing but a sham offer,' the communist state reiterated that it would freeze its nuclear facilities as a first step toward their dismantling, but only if Washington provides energy aid, lifts economic sanctions and delists the North as a sponsor of terrorism.
'It is a daydream for the U.S. to contemplate forcing the (North) to lay down arms first under the situation where both are in a state of armistice and at war technically,' said an unidentified spokesman of the North's Foreign Ministry."
South of the Rio Grande
George Person: Breaking the silence over possible imminent threat - PRAVDA.Ru
With an ever increasing Hispanic population in the USA, it will be a very unpopular decision both North and South of the border should the USA decide to put a barrier stemming the tide of illegal immigration and blocking the terrorists disguised as illegals coming into the country...its just too political, and the Hispanics are an extremely powerful voting block...who will eventually become the majority in the not too distant future...before the end of my life time possibly....
I believe the vision President Vincente Fox of Mexico essentially possess is the eventual merger of North, Central, and South America into one very large free trade and free travel zone....where the Western hemisphere becomes a united economic and political region, defended by a common set of values and religious background....
With an ever increasing Hispanic population in the USA, it will be a very unpopular decision both North and South of the border should the USA decide to put a barrier stemming the tide of illegal immigration and blocking the terrorists disguised as illegals coming into the country...its just too political, and the Hispanics are an extremely powerful voting block...who will eventually become the majority in the not too distant future...before the end of my life time possibly....
I believe the vision President Vincente Fox of Mexico essentially possess is the eventual merger of North, Central, and South America into one very large free trade and free travel zone....where the Western hemisphere becomes a united economic and political region, defended by a common set of values and religious background....
our taxes at work
Committee Meetings/Hearings Scheduled
Day in the Life:
This document provides a brief description of each committee meeting and hearing scheduled to take place today, and on days thereafter. The time and location of each meeting/hearing is identified. Meetings that have been canceled or postponed are also noted.
Thursday, Jul. 22, 2004
9 a.m.
Governmental Affairs
Investigations Subcommittee
To resume hearings to examine the extent to which
consumers can purchase pharmaceuticals over the
Internet without a medical prescription, the
importation of pharmaceuticals into the United
States, and whether the pharmaceuticals from
foreign sources are counterfeit, expired, unsafe,
or illegitimate, focusing on the extent to which
U.S. consumers can purchase dangerous and often
addictive controlled substances from Internet
pharmacy websites and the procedures utilized by
the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, the
Drug Enforcement Administration, the United
States Postal Service, and the Food and Drug
Administration, as well as the private sector to
address these issues.
SD-342
9:30 a.m.
Commerce, Science, and Transportation
Business meeting to consider pending calendar
business.
SR-253
9:30 a.m.
Foreign Relations
To hold hearings to examine the current situation
in Iraq post-transition.
SD-419
9:30 a.m.
Judiciary
Business meeting to consider pending calendar
business.
SD-226
9:30 a.m.
Appropriations
Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education
Subcommittee
To hold hearings to examine activities and
funding issues of the Appalachian Council and
Working for America Institute.
SD-192
10 a.m.
Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs
To continue hearings to examine regulation NMS
and developments in market structure.
SD-538
10 a.m.
Finance
To hold hearings to examine the role of higher
education financing in strengthening U.S.
competitiveness in a global economy.
SD-215
10 a.m.
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
To hold hearings to examine preparations for
possible future terrorist attacks.
SD-430
10 a.m.
Joint Economic Committee
To hold hearings to examine the demographics of
health care, focusing on evidence regarding
declining rates of chronic disability and assess
the best opportunities for further health
promotion.
SD-628
11 a.m.
Conferees
Meeting of conferees on H.R.3550, to authorize
funds for Federal-aid highways, highway safety
programs, and transit programs.
2167 RHOB
2 p.m.
Judiciary
To hold hearings to examine S.2560, to amend
chapter 5 of title 17, United States Code,
relating to inducement of copyright infringement.
SD-226
2:30 p.m.
Energy and Natural Resources
National Parks Subcommittee
To hold an oversight hearing to examine the
implementation of the National Parks Air Tour
Management Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-181).
SD-366
2:30 p.m.
Commerce, Science, and Transportation
Science, Technology, and Space Subcommittee
To hold hearings to examine space exploration of
Saturn.
SR-253
2:30 p.m.
Intelligence
To hold hearings to examine intelligence reform.
SH-216
3:30 p.m.
Governmental Affairs
To hold hearings to examine the nomination of
Allen Weinstein, of Maryland, to be Archivist of
the United States.
SD-342
Day in the Life:
This document provides a brief description of each committee meeting and hearing scheduled to take place today, and on days thereafter. The time and location of each meeting/hearing is identified. Meetings that have been canceled or postponed are also noted.
Thursday, Jul. 22, 2004
9 a.m.
Governmental Affairs
Investigations Subcommittee
To resume hearings to examine the extent to which
consumers can purchase pharmaceuticals over the
Internet without a medical prescription, the
importation of pharmaceuticals into the United
States, and whether the pharmaceuticals from
foreign sources are counterfeit, expired, unsafe,
or illegitimate, focusing on the extent to which
U.S. consumers can purchase dangerous and often
addictive controlled substances from Internet
pharmacy websites and the procedures utilized by
the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, the
Drug Enforcement Administration, the United
States Postal Service, and the Food and Drug
Administration, as well as the private sector to
address these issues.
SD-342
9:30 a.m.
Commerce, Science, and Transportation
Business meeting to consider pending calendar
business.
SR-253
9:30 a.m.
Foreign Relations
To hold hearings to examine the current situation
in Iraq post-transition.
SD-419
9:30 a.m.
Judiciary
Business meeting to consider pending calendar
business.
SD-226
9:30 a.m.
Appropriations
Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education
Subcommittee
To hold hearings to examine activities and
funding issues of the Appalachian Council and
Working for America Institute.
SD-192
10 a.m.
Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs
To continue hearings to examine regulation NMS
and developments in market structure.
SD-538
10 a.m.
Finance
To hold hearings to examine the role of higher
education financing in strengthening U.S.
competitiveness in a global economy.
SD-215
10 a.m.
Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions
To hold hearings to examine preparations for
possible future terrorist attacks.
SD-430
10 a.m.
Joint Economic Committee
To hold hearings to examine the demographics of
health care, focusing on evidence regarding
declining rates of chronic disability and assess
the best opportunities for further health
promotion.
SD-628
11 a.m.
Conferees
Meeting of conferees on H.R.3550, to authorize
funds for Federal-aid highways, highway safety
programs, and transit programs.
2167 RHOB
2 p.m.
Judiciary
To hold hearings to examine S.2560, to amend
chapter 5 of title 17, United States Code,
relating to inducement of copyright infringement.
SD-226
2:30 p.m.
Energy and Natural Resources
National Parks Subcommittee
To hold an oversight hearing to examine the
implementation of the National Parks Air Tour
Management Act of 2000 (Public Law 106-181).
SD-366
2:30 p.m.
Commerce, Science, and Transportation
Science, Technology, and Space Subcommittee
To hold hearings to examine space exploration of
Saturn.
SR-253
2:30 p.m.
Intelligence
To hold hearings to examine intelligence reform.
SH-216
3:30 p.m.
Governmental Affairs
To hold hearings to examine the nomination of
Allen Weinstein, of Maryland, to be Archivist of
the United States.
SD-342
just reid:
A Letter to The Black Caucus from A Black Woman Living in South Central
by Donna J. Warren
http://www.commondreams.org/views04/0722-01.htm
Published on Thursday, July 22, 2004 by CommonDreams.org
Last Gasp
One breath for revolution
http://www.adbusters.org/magazine/54/features/breath.html
U.S. House votes to strike comment that 2000 election was stolen.
As highlighted by www.thememoryblog.org, according to a July 16, 2004 AP story
(CNN http://www.cnn.com/2004/ALLPOLITICS/07/16/florida.fight.ap/ ):
“Think the passions from the 2000 presidential election have cooled? Certainly not in the House of Representatives, which voted to strike a Florida representative's words from the record after she said Republicans "stole" that closely fought contest.
[...] Rep. Corrine Brown of Florida and several other House Democrats have made that suggestion. They argue that some black voters were disenfranchised in 2000 and problems could occur again this fall.
[...] "I come from Florida, where you and others participated in what I call the United States coup d'etat. We need to make sure it doesn't happen again," Brown said. "Over and over again after the election when you stole the election, you came back here and said, 'Get over it.' No, we're not going to get over it. And we want verification from the world."
At that point, Buyer demanded that Brown's words be "taken down," or removed from the debate's permanent record.
The House's presiding officer, Rep. Mac Thornberry of Texas, ruled that Brown's words violated a House rule.
"Members should not accuse other members of committing a crime such as, quote, stealing, end quote, an election," Thornberry said.
When Brown objected to his ruling, the Republican-run House voted 219-187 along party lines to strike her words.
The AP story probably should have said "strict" party lines, as can be seen from the Roll Call. According to Congressional Record page H5866, some even changed their initial vote, in order to make the vote come out to be along strict party lines:
Mr. BISHOP of New York and Mr. LIPINSKI changed their vote from ‘‘aye’’ to ‘‘no.’’
Messrs. PICKERING, LEWIS of California, THOMAS, and BURR changed their vote from ‘‘no’’ to ‘‘aye.’’
It's evidently more important in the U.S. House to foster bitter partisanship than to host open debate about free elections.
See the Nov. 2, 2002 UnderReported.com story 91,000 wrongly disenfranchised in Florida in 2000 http://www.underreported.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=375-- still barred from voting in 2002.
by Donna J. Warren
http://www.commondreams.org/views04/0722-01.htm
Published on Thursday, July 22, 2004 by CommonDreams.org
“You demanded Independent Candidates Ralph Nader and Peter Camejo withdraw from the presidential race in favor of NAFTA approving, Iraq invading, Afghanistan bombing, Sudanese pharmaceutical plant bombing, right-wing Israeli prime minister and murderer Ariel Sharon supporting; impeachment of George W. Bush for the forced removal of democratically elected President Jean Bertrand Aristide refusing, and mandatory minimum sentencing supporting - John Kerry. “ (more…)
Last Gasp
One breath for revolution
http://www.adbusters.org/magazine/54/features/breath.html
Hold your breath as long as you can. But keep reading. Here’s what you’ll experience: your respiration has stopped, but your heart continues beating, converting oxygen from inhaled air into carbon dioxide. With no way out, the CO2 concentrates in the blood, raising its acid levels and lowering the amount of oxygen that makes it to the brain and other organs. You’ll feel this first as a sensation of fullness or saturation, then as light-headedness, possibly altered vision, an inability to focus on these words, and a growing sense of desperation. Eventually, when the CO2 levels reach the “critical line,” your nervous system will override the brain’s command to not breathe, prompting an uncontrollable impulse to open your lungs wide, sucking in sweet, precious air. If you don’t, you’re options are grim: pass out, possibly with brain damage, or die. (more… www.1breathtime.com. )
U.S. House votes to strike comment that 2000 election was stolen.
As highlighted by www.thememoryblog.org, according to a July 16, 2004 AP story
(CNN http://www.cnn.com/2004/ALLPOLITICS/07/16/florida.fight.ap/ ):
“Think the passions from the 2000 presidential election have cooled? Certainly not in the House of Representatives, which voted to strike a Florida representative's words from the record after she said Republicans "stole" that closely fought contest.
[...] Rep. Corrine Brown of Florida and several other House Democrats have made that suggestion. They argue that some black voters were disenfranchised in 2000 and problems could occur again this fall.
[...] "I come from Florida, where you and others participated in what I call the United States coup d'etat. We need to make sure it doesn't happen again," Brown said. "Over and over again after the election when you stole the election, you came back here and said, 'Get over it.' No, we're not going to get over it. And we want verification from the world."
At that point, Buyer demanded that Brown's words be "taken down," or removed from the debate's permanent record.
The House's presiding officer, Rep. Mac Thornberry of Texas, ruled that Brown's words violated a House rule.
"Members should not accuse other members of committing a crime such as, quote, stealing, end quote, an election," Thornberry said.
When Brown objected to his ruling, the Republican-run House voted 219-187 along party lines to strike her words.
The AP story probably should have said "strict" party lines, as can be seen from the Roll Call. According to Congressional Record page H5866, some even changed their initial vote, in order to make the vote come out to be along strict party lines:
Mr. BISHOP of New York and Mr. LIPINSKI changed their vote from ‘‘aye’’ to ‘‘no.’’
Messrs. PICKERING, LEWIS of California, THOMAS, and BURR changed their vote from ‘‘no’’ to ‘‘aye.’’
It's evidently more important in the U.S. House to foster bitter partisanship than to host open debate about free elections.
See the Nov. 2, 2002 UnderReported.com story 91,000 wrongly disenfranchised in Florida in 2000 http://www.underreported.com/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=375-- still barred from voting in 2002.
21 July 2004
I just enrolled! Now my mad skillz will be off da Hiz' ook.
News University: Training for Journalists. Anytime. Anywhere.
The Online News Association and News University are excited to present a new e-learning module for online producers and Web editors. The module is based on four 2003 Online Journalism Award finalists. It breaks the projects down and examines the processes that four organizations -- the Los Angeles Times, Beliefnet, the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, and the 9/11 Sonic Memorial team -- used to produce award-quality work.
The Online News Association and News University are excited to present a new e-learning module for online producers and Web editors. The module is based on four 2003 Online Journalism Award finalists. It breaks the projects down and examines the processes that four organizations -- the Los Angeles Times, Beliefnet, the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, and the 9/11 Sonic Memorial team -- used to produce award-quality work.
liquor makes me thnk, real good!
DPRK-made Drinks to Be Sold in U.S.
Pyongyang, July 20 (KCNA)
Pyongyang, July 20 (KCNA)
-- Pyongyang Liquor is soon to be sold in the U.S. Pak Il U, 55, a Korean resident in the U.S who is manager of the Dong Woo U.S.A. INC., had an interview with KCNA at Koryo Hotel when he was visiting Pyongyang. The publication of the June 15 North-South Joint Declaration gave him a great delight, he said. A way has been paved for the Korean nation to reunify the country by itself.
I have thought that when all the Koreans in the north, south and overseas are united with a strong sense of patriotism and try to let the world know well about Korea, the door of national reunification will be opened, he said.
After much deliberation over the way for disabusing American society of its mistaken thought about the DPRK and giving the Korean-Americans a correct understanding of the fatherland, I made up my mind to sell Pyongyang Liquor in the United States, he said, and went on: "I have spent much time and efforts for its realization. Pyongyang is the capital of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea.
When people drink Pyongyang Liquor, a traditional liquor of Korea, they will think of Korea and chat about the history and traditions of the nation. That's why I made such a decision." ...More news from Korea
I'd like to Order, now!
I'm saving all my love for you
http://www.alternet.org/waroniraq/19293/
Before his departure, CPA chief Paul Bremer issued 100 Orders to dramatically restructure Iraq's economy to fit free-market ideals. And no Iraqi, including future elected officials, can undo them.
Order #39 allows for the following: (1) privatization of Iraq's 200 state-owned enterprises; (2) 100 percent foreign ownership of Iraqi businesses; (3) "national treatment" of foreign firms; (4) unrestricted, tax-free remittance of all profits and other funds; and (5) 40-year ownership licenses. Thus, it allows the U.S. corporations operating in Iraq to own every business, do all of the work, and send all of their money home. Nothing needs to be reinvested locally to service the Iraqi economy, no Iraqi need be hired, no public services need be guaranteed, and workers' rights can easily be ignored. And corporations can take out their investments at any time.
Order #40 turns the banking sector from a state-run to a market-driven system overnight by allowing foreign banks to enter the Iraqi market and to purchase up to 50 percent of Iraqi banks.
Order #49 drops the tax rate on corporations from a high of 40 percent to a flat rate of 15 percent. The income tax rate is also capped at 15 percent.
Order #12 enacted on June 7, 2003 and renewed on February 24, 2004, suspends "all tariffs, customs duties, import taxes, licensing fees and similar surcharges for goods entering or leaving Iraq, and all other trade restrictions that may apply to such goods." This led to an immediate and dramatic inflow of cheap consumer products, which has essentially wiped out all local providers of the same products. This could have significant long-term implications for domestic production as well.
Order #17 grants foreign contractors, including private security firms, full immunity from Iraq 's laws. Even if they do injure a third party by killing someone or causing environmental damage such as dumping toxic chemicals or poisoning drinking water, the injured third party can not turn to the Iraqi legal system, rather, the charges must be brought to U.S. courts under U.S. laws.
Order #77 established the Board of Supreme Audit and named its president and his two deputies. The Board oversees inspectors in every Ministry with wide-ranging authority to review government contracts, audit classified programs, and prescribe regulations and procedures.
Order #57 created and appointed an inspector within every Iraqi Ministry with five-year terms who can perform audits, write policies, and have full access to all offices, materials, and employees of the Ministries.
....but other than that, you have full sovereignty...jim
http://www.alternet.org/waroniraq/19293/
Before his departure, CPA chief Paul Bremer issued 100 Orders to dramatically restructure Iraq's economy to fit free-market ideals. And no Iraqi, including future elected officials, can undo them.
Order #39 allows for the following: (1) privatization of Iraq's 200 state-owned enterprises; (2) 100 percent foreign ownership of Iraqi businesses; (3) "national treatment" of foreign firms; (4) unrestricted, tax-free remittance of all profits and other funds; and (5) 40-year ownership licenses. Thus, it allows the U.S. corporations operating in Iraq to own every business, do all of the work, and send all of their money home. Nothing needs to be reinvested locally to service the Iraqi economy, no Iraqi need be hired, no public services need be guaranteed, and workers' rights can easily be ignored. And corporations can take out their investments at any time.
Order #40 turns the banking sector from a state-run to a market-driven system overnight by allowing foreign banks to enter the Iraqi market and to purchase up to 50 percent of Iraqi banks.
Order #49 drops the tax rate on corporations from a high of 40 percent to a flat rate of 15 percent. The income tax rate is also capped at 15 percent.
Order #12 enacted on June 7, 2003 and renewed on February 24, 2004, suspends "all tariffs, customs duties, import taxes, licensing fees and similar surcharges for goods entering or leaving Iraq, and all other trade restrictions that may apply to such goods." This led to an immediate and dramatic inflow of cheap consumer products, which has essentially wiped out all local providers of the same products. This could have significant long-term implications for domestic production as well.
Order #17 grants foreign contractors, including private security firms, full immunity from Iraq 's laws. Even if they do injure a third party by killing someone or causing environmental damage such as dumping toxic chemicals or poisoning drinking water, the injured third party can not turn to the Iraqi legal system, rather, the charges must be brought to U.S. courts under U.S. laws.
Order #77 established the Board of Supreme Audit and named its president and his two deputies. The Board oversees inspectors in every Ministry with wide-ranging authority to review government contracts, audit classified programs, and prescribe regulations and procedures.
Order #57 created and appointed an inspector within every Iraqi Ministry with five-year terms who can perform audits, write policies, and have full access to all offices, materials, and employees of the Ministries.
....but other than that, you have full sovereignty...jim
Saturday Nite WMD's
AlterNet: War on Iraq: Mass Destruction in Small Packages
..."While small arms are deadly and dangerous, they are also profitable - which makes them difficult to regulate and control. According to data collected by the Small Arms Survey in Geneva, they account for more than $4 billion in profits each year. The United States has the dubious honor of being the largest exporter, with $741.4 million in sales in 2003, which accounts for 18 percent of the market. The U.S. also purchased $602.5 million in small arms and munitions in 2003, making it the largest importer of small arms, as well."
..."While small arms are deadly and dangerous, they are also profitable - which makes them difficult to regulate and control. According to data collected by the Small Arms Survey in Geneva, they account for more than $4 billion in profits each year. The United States has the dubious honor of being the largest exporter, with $741.4 million in sales in 2003, which accounts for 18 percent of the market. The U.S. also purchased $602.5 million in small arms and munitions in 2003, making it the largest importer of small arms, as well."
PHRASE OF THE DAY- Japanese
http://japanese.about.com/blpod_july.htm
Densha ni noru.
Get on the train.
Vocabulary / Expressions
densha = train
noru = to get on
Notes: "Ni" is a particle which marks the goal of the movement. "To get off the train" is "densha o oriru".
Get on the train.
Vocabulary / Expressions
densha = train
noru = to get on
Notes: "Ni" is a particle which marks the goal of the movement. "To get off the train" is "densha o oriru".
who makes a 'crack baby'?
Discovery Health :: HealthScout News
Study Questions 'Crack Baby' Syndrome
"Poor parenting in infancy may be more to blame for developmental problems in children born to cocaine-addicted mothers, rather than any effect of cocaine exposure in utero, according to a new study.
The Georgia study found that children born to women who used cocaine during their pregnancy do better if they live with caregivers other than their mother or other family members, according to a study by the Society for Research in Child Development.
The study included 83 children whose mothers took cocaine during pregnancy and 63 non-exposed children."
Study Questions 'Crack Baby' Syndrome
"Poor parenting in infancy may be more to blame for developmental problems in children born to cocaine-addicted mothers, rather than any effect of cocaine exposure in utero, according to a new study.
The Georgia study found that children born to women who used cocaine during their pregnancy do better if they live with caregivers other than their mother or other family members, according to a study by the Society for Research in Child Development.
The study included 83 children whose mothers took cocaine during pregnancy and 63 non-exposed children."
Swim with the Fishies!
Swim with Dolphins in Hawaii. Dolphin Retreats!
December 19-26 2004 Winter Solstice Retreat- "Celebration with the Dolphins"
"Visit the wild dolphins to experience the healing and joy they offer. Enjoy the warm waters and fresh sunlight. We journey by kayak or free-swimming. These retreats are unique in their spiritual approach to being with the dolphins in a way that is honoring and respectful. During this retreat we also journey to sacred sites, and benefit from group breath, meditation, and toning sessions. An unforgetable journey of light that will change you forever more- you will never forget the playful energies of the dolphins, the blessings of the sea and sun as it sets over the horizon!"
what will they think of next!? jim
December 19-26 2004 Winter Solstice Retreat- "Celebration with the Dolphins"
"Visit the wild dolphins to experience the healing and joy they offer. Enjoy the warm waters and fresh sunlight. We journey by kayak or free-swimming. These retreats are unique in their spiritual approach to being with the dolphins in a way that is honoring and respectful. During this retreat we also journey to sacred sites, and benefit from group breath, meditation, and toning sessions. An unforgetable journey of light that will change you forever more- you will never forget the playful energies of the dolphins, the blessings of the sea and sun as it sets over the horizon!"
what will they think of next!? jim
Family Centers
- Family Centers
PENNSYLVANIA: Building Strong Families and Strong Communities
For nearly a decade, Pennsylvania's Family Centers have integrated and provided community services to help families become healthier, better educated and self-sufficient. Family Centers help parents: - Learn about their children's development.
- Engage in parent education and child development activities.
- Access health care information as well as assistance regarding health care services and insurance.
- Access education, training and employment information.
- Receive information and assistance on other community resources, such as well-baby care, immunizations and early intervention services.
- Since each Family Center takes a unique approach to meeting their community's needs, not all services are available in every center.
However, Family Center services may include:
Adult Education
Job Training and Placement
Language Skills
Literacy Programs
Parent Support Groups
Parenting Skills Programs
Child Health and Development Screenings
Family Activities
Toy and Book Lending Libraries
Child Care Programs
Summer and After-School Activities
The Parents As Teachers (PAT) Program (This program is for families with children who are birth to five years of age.)
Family Center Facts
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Talk Gone Wrong
