Washington Woman

Washington State initiatives mostly corporate funded

2010-09-17T16:48:00.001-07:00

Figures listed in the Public Disclosure Commission show that the majority of funding that has placed initiatives on the November ballot have come from corporate donors.

All fundraising and expenditures for candidates and initiatives must by law be recorded by the PDC to create transparency to voters regarding campaign funding. Ironically, the PDC was established in 1973 after enough signatures were placed on the ballot to make reporting mandatory.

The purpose of the initiative process was to allow citizens to play a role in creating the laws that have an effect on them. But some have questioned the authenticity of the grassroots movement as corporate donations have enabled the use of paid signature gatherers and advertising.

Andrew Villeneuve, founder of the Northwest Progressive Institute has been tracking what he considers to be a disturbing trend in the initiative process. Among them is I-1053.

“It’s not actually Tim Eyman’s initiative anymore,” Villeneuve said. “It’s actually BP’s initiative. It’s Conoco Phillips initiative. It’s Tesoro’s initiative, along with Bank of America and other corporations.”

Initiative 1053 is listed at the PDC under the names Citizens for Responsible Spending and Voters Want More Choices. To date a cumulative amount of $65,000 has been donated by BP, a British owned company. Conoco Phillips and Tesoro have each contributed $50,000. Bank of America has donated $10,000. The list is extensive and it is made up primarily of corporate donors.

More than $6 million dollars has gone into I-1107, known as Stop the Food and Beverage Tax Hikes, for the American Beverage Association – which includes Pepsi and Coca-Cola.

Costco has donated in excess of $800,000 to I-1100, known as Modernize Washington, which would allow the privatization of liquor sales in Washington State.

“Every corporation is trying to maximize their own bottom line,” Villeneuve said. “They want to be able to maximize profits and not be responsible for the messes they create.”

According to Villeneuve, in the case of some of the oil companies that have refineries on Puget Sound, they are trying to stonewall legislation that environmentalists have been trying to pass through congress to increase hazardous substance fees.

“Eyman’s 1053 is basically designed to jam the gears of democracy by saying that the legislature can’t approve any new revenue without a two-thirds vote.” Villeneuve explained. “It will only take one-third to kill a bill. Majority rule gets subverted in the process.”

According to Villeneuve, many politicians will not want to risk losing their biggest campaign donors and will therefore vote against bills that will cost those companies money.

Rep. Steve Kirby (D-Tacoma) agreed that the initiative process is no longer based on citizen action.

“All it takes is money. It doesn’t matter where it comes from,” Kirby said. “Now it’s all done by rich people and corporate money. It’s one of the easiest ways to subvert the system. It’s a way to turn it on its ear.”

According to Kirby, not only do donors not have to be from Washington State, but neither do those that gather signatures.

“It’s a highly organized business. Some will even fly in small armies of gatherers in on planes from out of state,” Kirby said.

Signature gathers are not required to be knowledgeable on the issue nor accurately disclose the intent of the behind the initiative.

“It’s a problem,” Kirby said.”The courts have allowed them to lie under protection of the First Amendment.”

The initiative process itself could be eliminated by an initiative. But all sides want the option, he said. Legitimate interests use the initiative process, and some even use paid gatherers.

Kirby said that public disclosure is the best tool there is for now. As far as making the process more fair and transparent, Kirby doesn’t see a clear answer.

“It’s possible there’s something we haven’t thought of yet,” he said. “But powerful corporations hire lawyers.”

1968 King Assassination Report (CBS News)

2010-01-18T18:24:00.001-08:00

Very interesting video.

My Name Is Not "Those People"

2009-09-29T00:13:00.001-07:00

Simply wonderful and well said....

The Unauthorized 9.12 Teabagger Tour

2009-09-14T15:37:00.002-07:00

Oh My God!

Can you believe we live in a country with so many scary deranged people?

The Filth and The Furious - The EPA's Most Wanted

2009-04-07T22:49:00.002-07:00

The Environmental Protection Agency is turning up the heat on dirty criminals. Deputy director Doug Parker began compiling a list of the EPA’s “Most Wanted” in March of 2008 to ferret out those who are wanted on criminal investigation of environmental felonies. Although a relatively new endeavor, the list of 21 fugitives reaches back as far as 1996, when a man by the name of Mauro Valenzuela smuggled oxygen canisters onto an airliner, causing the deaths of 110 people when they ignited – causing the plane to crash into the everglades. Included on the roster are Albania Deleon, who ran an operation that hired workers to remove asbestos without proper certification, and two men who are believed to have trafficked ozone depleting coolants.

According to Cornelia Dean’s article in the New York Times, Parker states that the E.P.A. has “’180 agents fully authorized with arrest powers, carrying firearms’ around the country, but that it usually worked with state, local, and federal law enforcement agencies as well as the Coast Guard, the Homeland Security Department, and Interpol.”

While I applaud the idea behind the efforts of Parker and the agency, one omission I found glaringly obvious, was that of the range of penalties for these crimes. While Mauro Valenzuela would likely be brought up on charges that could include homicide, and is as of yet at large, what is to become of the perpetrator who places countless lives in danger in a more subtle manner that may span over a number of years? It has seemed that the victims often must rely on litigation for resolution, and if successful, may wait years for vindication. If ever they do. Twenty years after the massive travesty of the Exxon Valdez oil spill, which had been ignored by the behemoth corporation and was cleaned up by good Samaritans, the diminutive sum that they were ordered to pay was again reduced by the Supreme Court. While the Exxon episode may have been deemed an accident and, therefore, not criminal, they’re lack of response is beyond irresponsible. And in cases where people or corporations deliberately act in ways that put the public at risk, they should be penalized in a similar manner as if they used any other weapon.

So, bravo to Doug Parker and the E.P.A for putting a face on environmental terrorists. Let’s hope it’s not just a never seen tribute to the post office wall.

Steven Colbert, Glenn Beck and FEAR!

2009-03-07T12:04:00.006-08:00

Steven Colbert takes on glenn beck and the crazies at fox news. Even during the bush administration all they had to sell to the American people and the world was fear. You would think that they would have noticed that the vast majority of people in this country voted for HOPE, Change and Courage!

Here we have Steven Colbert telling us about beck' new War Room". This is followed by Steven Colbert's own version of the War Room called the "DOOM Bunker"

Have fun.

Steven Colbert and glenn beck's War Room.

The Colbert ReportMon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c

Glenn Beck's War Room

Colbert Report Full Episodes
Political Humor

Rap Battle
Joke of the Day

Steven Colbert's DOOM Bunker.

The Colbert ReportMon - Thurs 11:30pm / 10:30c

Doom Bunker - Jack Jacobs and Stephen Moore

Colbert Report Full Episodes
Political Humor

Rap Battle
Joke of the Day

When do we start referring to these people as crazy ass fear mongers who hate what the United States of America is REALLY all about? They only care about power and money. Wake up limbots! (previously known as republicans and conservatives)

Rebuilding our schools: the legacy of "no new taxes"

2009-03-06T20:18:00.004-08:00

We are cross posting this for a Tacoma activist that is working hard for our schools.
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2009/3/5/205812/8751/576/705216
. . . . . . . . . . . .

I am deep in the throes of campaigning for a local school bond election. Every year or two our school district has to undertake this ritual, the legacy of a state constitutional amendment that limited property taxes to 1% of assessed value, unless voters approve a bond levy by a 60% majority. "So what?" You say. "Shouldn't the voters have a say?" Well, yes, in theory, but in practice it means that necessary school construction projects are put off until our schools are literally crumbling around the kids. It also means that in times like these, when construction prices are low and construction jobs are desperately needed, voters balk at the idea of any additional property taxes.

But all of that is just talk. It is easy enough to say "fine, but not now" to school construction until you see the reality of what some of our kids are asked to live with every day.

This is a hallway ceiling at Hunt Middle School in Tacoma, Washington. Large parts of the school feature water damage just as severe. Maintenance staff dutifully replace ceiling panels and repaint when they can, but the water just seeps right through.

This is the roof that produced those leaks. When Hunt Middle School was built in 1957, I don't think school officials ever envisioned the days of sky high materials costs and 1% property tax caps. Faced with a booming student population, contractors used "imaginative" measures to cut costs, including a plywood based structure and a "California style" flat roof. 30 years of Northwest weather and no roof replacement funds have created the mold-laden environment its students have to learn in today.

Today, Hunt's problems extend far beyond the roof, and school officials must ask voters to approve enough funds for complete building replacement.

Across town at Stewart Middle School, a stately 1920s vintage building is a pleasant site to the casual observer. Inside, wires are strung along bare pipes, and students attend after school programs in rooms with missing ceiling tiles and severe water damage. (Caused by an electrical fire 2 years ago.)

School districts face this problem throughout the State of Washington. Other states have also jumped on the tax cap bandwagon, creating massive system-wide disasters like the classroom trailer-ridden California schools. 30+ years after most of these laws were passed, school bond elections have become an annual tradition in many parts of the country.

For the parents, teachers and school officials working on the school bond election, Tacoma's school building crisis seems obvious and urgent. Getting that message out to voters has been a nearly insurmountable task, however. School bond elections can't be funded by the district, and our total budget for promoting this 300 million dollar bond issue is about $20,000. (And much of that not materializing.) With the local press concentrating on the cost, our campaign strategy has come down to parent volunteers forwarding emails of school photos, late into the night.

Our complex system of school funding is a nightmare for school bond campaigns. Given the task of voting "yes" or "no" on the school bond, voters take this as an opportunity to express dissatisfaction with virtually any school-related issue, from the amount of school supplies teachers use, to larger more important issues like the state's persistent achievement gap. Their concerns can and should be addressed, but getting the message across that school bonds are only for buildings has been very challenging. The only state to expressly guarantee ample funding for basic education in its constitution, the State of Washington is charged with funding educational programming needs like teachers, textbooks, and curriculum. In the absence of a state income tax, that funding is rarely secure.

Tacoma's school funding mess is not unique. Schools like Hunt and Stewart are a vivid illustration of the long-term consequences of tax caps, cost cutting, and the general nearsightedness of the past several decades of education funding. In Washington State we're working hard to change this myopic legacy, but a little more help from the federal government wouldn't hurt. As the Obama administration considers new education initiatives and asks the American public to accept the stimulus plan, please think of Hunt Middle School, and ask your legislators to vote yes for change.

. . . . . . . . . . . .

Please visit Tacoma Citizens for Schools on their website and on Facebook.

What A Real President Looks and Sounds Like!

2009-02-28T15:20:00.004-08:00

2/28/09: Your Weekly Address from White House on Vimeo

"I realize that passing this budget won’t be easy. Because it represents real and dramatic change, it also represents a threat to the status quo in Washington. I know that the insurance industry won’t like the idea that they’ll have to bid competitively to continue offering Medicare coverage, but that’s how we’ll help preserve and protect Medicare and lower health care costs for American families. I know that banks and big student lenders won’t like the idea that we’re ending their huge taxpayer subsidies, but that’s how we’ll save taxpayers nearly $50 billion and make college more affordable. I know that oil and gas companies won’t like us ending nearly $30 billion in tax breaks, but that’s how we’ll help fund a renewable energy economy that will create new jobs and new industries. I know these steps won’t sit well with the special interests and lobbyists who are invested in the old way of doing business, and I know they’re gearing up for a fight as we speak. My message to them is this:

"So am I."

More here: http://www.whitehouse.gov/blog/09/02/28/Keeping-Promises/

All I can say is WOW! It sure is nice to have a real President again!

Check out Recovery.gov

Have You Voted?! Can You Vote?

2008-11-03T22:03:00.008-08:00

If you have not voted yet, then Please Do So Now!

If you must wait until the polls open, then get there early!

If you are voting by mail then please get it in the mail NOW or better yet, take it to your local elections office.

Protect your right to vote. We have included some useful information below.
The following is taken from a diary at DailyKos.

Time Off to Vote for Employees — A State by State Survey

Most states require employers to provide time for employees to vote on election day. While these laws vary in each state, they generally require employers to give employees time off to vote if the polls aren’t open two or three hours outside of the employee’s regular shift.

Much more here:
http://employmentlawpost.com/theword/2008/10/15/time-off-to-vote-for-employees-a-state-by-state-survey-2/

Find your state and see what the law says. If you don't like it, then put it on your list of things to CHANGE in future local elections!

Sure you're registered? Check at www.CanIVote.org

ACLU Voter Protection Hotline (1-877-523-2792)

Lawyers' Committe Hotline (1-800-OUR-VOTE / 1-800-687-8683)

or go to www.OurVoteLive.org to report or follow irregularities.

Some additional information from RFK Jr.:

Heads up!!!!! RFK, Jr. Sends another warning!
http://www.progressiveblue.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=3012

"The Ad"

2008-10-30T12:01:00.003-07:00

And what a great "ad" it is!

This is not about I, me or you, it is about we.

Often when you see great images and speeches that pull at your heart, they are laced with words and images that speak to a scary form nationalism and militarism.

With Barack Obama you feel the pride of being an American and fighting for what is right and good about this country but you also feel the pride of being a citizen of this planet.

More Lies and More of the Same

2008-09-09T18:30:00.003-07:00

Lies and Flip Flops.

Do we really want to continue down the path of 4 more years of George Bush and Dick Cheney?

More of the Same?

John McCain is proud of voting with George Bush over 90% of the time. No.. really, these are his words. See and hear him speak them in the video above.

Just in case you have forgotten

2008-09-01T12:38:00.001-07:00

Lies.

Barack Obama chooses Joe Biden

2008-08-23T11:15:00.003-07:00

I know we are not even close to being the first, but I wanted to make sure that we mentioned Barack Obama's choice for VP. It is Joe Biden.

I think this is a good choice, there are others that I would have chosen over Joe Biden but after giving it some thought, I think Barack Obama made a good and wise choice.

Washington Woman will have more to say on this later.

For now, let us give a big THUMBS UP to the Democratic ticket of Barack Obama and Joe Biden!

Obama/Biden 08

"A cookout with some bastards" - by johnny venom @ MyDD

2008-07-06T20:41:00.006-07:00

A friend of mine just turned me on to a diary written over at MyD called: A cookout with some bastards.

This is one of the funniest and scariest diaries I have read in some time. His experiences with his conservative/republican friends and family are just amazing. I wonder how many of you have had the same experiences?

It amazes me how dense people can be about the truths that stare them in the face. How ill informed so many people in the country are. What dittoheads and lock steppers the republican base is. It is like they do not have a original, true and genuine thought in their head.

I will give you a taste of "johnny venom's" diary, but for the full experiance, you must visit A cookout with some bastards at MyDD.

Every year I attend a BBQ held by a friend of the family. Her name is Deborah and sadly is a big-time Republican, though oddly enough not so much a conservative (well socially at least). Now her late father and my father go way back, fought together in North Africa in WW2, so these people are practically family. Well, as mentioned, she holds an Independence Day BBQ cook out every year, and my father goes out of respect... and a free meal. Outside of me, sometimes, he's the only other non-Republican at these things.

Now, since 2000, since I started finding myself parting ever farther from Republican politics, my appearances at this cook out have been on and off. The reason being was that many of the folks there are die hard conservatives, and arguments tended to be twenty to one. You can probably guess who was that 'one.' Its a real turn about, considering, that Debbie was the person that got me into politics (particularly the GOP) when I was a young Johnny Venom. The folks at the BBQ were my political kin for a long time, and when I turned the other way, it came to them as a shock.
You'd be amazed, once you change parties, how fast your "friends" can quickly become your enemies. Well, it's not like they wish me ill will, well most of them don't, just that they find it much better if I weren't voting ...
.....

Now conversations ebb and flow on all sorts of things. So, instead, I'm just gonna break them down by topics. You don't really have to know their names, they're conservatives. And, for the most part, you've probably already got an idea on what they are going say for the most part. Still, allow me to irritate your senses a bit just to show you what kind of assholes we're dealing with who want more power or at least keep what they got ...
.....

"Barack Obama"

Deborah finally came to our table. She saw my Obama button (fuck it, I wear that everywhere!) and she gave a sour face to me. Suddenly, she rubbed her forearm and then pointed at my button.

Deborah: You see this John? Whit skin. You think he likes that? No way. I wouldn't vote for an anti-Semite, he hates Jews John. You know he's really a Muslim, don't you?

Me: Deb, that's a bunch of crap, and you know it. There is no way in hell I'm going to believe all that. Besides, the man's half white, for crying out loud!

Female Plastics Lady: But still a Muslim.

Me: No, he's not!

Deborah: How do you know? The media? They want a black person in so they can feel better about themselves.

Me: Because he isn't. And as for the media...huh?

Old Male Conservative Engineer: And how about that reverend? You telling me, for twenty years he didn't know what kind of church that was.

Me: Wait a minute, if you're admitting he went to church, then you are in agreement he isn't a Muslim?

Old Male Conservative Engineer: No, because they can hide their faith very well.

Me: I think you're crazier than Janis (Middle Age Female Conservative)!

............

This is just a taste, so please give yourself a treat and a headache and read the rest for yourself.

Next on Meet the Press

2008-06-13T16:54:00.002-07:00

While still basking in the afterglow of our very special interview with Rep. Dennis Kucinich, I learned of the sad news of the passing of NBC commentator, Tim Russert. Many of us felt a connection to Tim as we had our weekly Sunday rendezvous with him during Meet the Press. I know I certainly did. I was shocked to hear that, at the young age of 58, he had suffered from an apparent heart attack while in studio recording voiceovers for his show. It certainly gives pause for thought.

The media and the American audience has been dealt a great loss today.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/story/2008/06/13/ST2008061302497.html

Afflicted by Manifest Injury

2008-06-12T18:40:00.003-07:00

On Monday Rep. Dennis Kucinich delivered a riveting, concise soliloquy that would rival a closing argument by Vincent Bugliosi. For nearly five hours Rep.Kucinich cited 35 articles of impeachment against George W. Bush on the floor of the House. It was nearly midnight in D.C. when he wrapped up. He had previously authored H.R 333 calling for the impeachment of Dick Cheney which passed in November but has since had no action taken. While it is doubtful that we will actually witness the impeachment of those who have committed the most impeachable of offenses, it is of great importance that Kucinich has documented this administration's numerous crimes and has them on the record. Perhaps it will open the door for action at a later time. It is refreshing to know that not only is someone who has been elected to represent We The People willing to stand up to those who have failed to uphold their Constitutional oath and who have committed crimes upon us and upon others in our name, but has been relentless in his perseverance to expose the emperor's lack of clothing - even if it would seem that his suit is made of Teflon.

On Friday at noon Rep. Kucinich is expected to join us on Equal Time Radio to discuss his bill.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/06/10/AR2008061003087.html

To read his bill and to contact him to give thanks:

http://kucinich.house.gov/News/DocumentSingle.aspx?DocumentID=93581

Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton - The Fall Out

2008-06-09T18:03:00.003-07:00

I have been thinking about the fall out of the long Democratic primary race. Has this primary harmed the Democratic party and our primary system or has it helped.

I looked at this through many different angles, I talked to others in person and online, I read what others had to say and what others screamed about. Some thought Hillary Clinton was "destroying the party" by continuing in this primary long after they and some in the media thought she should drop out. Others came to the same conclusion that I did, they thought it was a good thing for the Democratic party and for politics in general in this country.

The following comes from a friend and fellow blogger.
From Associated Content

The Democratic primary, for all of its faults--such as the use of the undemocratic and under representing caucuses and the infamous super-delegates--has finally brought out two of the Democratic parties biggest base of supporters in large and vocal numbers. Women and African-Americans have finally broken into the top tier of presidential politics because of two worthy and credible candidates in Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. These two candidates have done more to energize, educate and activate the citizens of the United States to become involved in the politics of choosing the president. They have allowed more people to understand that their voice and their collective voices can and will be heard. For this, they are both winners in my book.

[snip]

These two candidates have brought out over 17 million people each to vote for them, for a combined total of over 35 million and rising. Every state that has voted in this primary cycle, has had record turnouts in activism, at rallies and on voting day. The numbers of people that have joined the democratic party is one of the highest ever if not the highest ever, with more joining the party and the process every day. The amount of money that has been raised by small donors, for each candidate, is staggering and historical. Even tho many would like to see money and its influence taken out of politics, the fact that the Democrats have been able to out raise the Republicans at all levels, is simply a huge show of support by the American people for these two candidates and the Democratic party

[snip]

... This presidential primary has reinvigorated the people and the process for the better. I believe this change will last for decades.

Thank you Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and all of their supporters. You have brought back my faith in the American people to do what is right.

More at Associated Content

After last Tuesdays (6-2-08) final primary elections, some thought Hillary Clinton should have conceded right then, I disagreed. That was not the time or the place to properly thank her thousands of volunteers and millions of supporters. It also would not have done justice to her upcoming endorsement of Barack Obama (come on, we all knew she would). She had also won one of the two states that night.

So that Saturday (6-7-08) she gave the speech and the endorsement that I knew she would give.

Read the transcript here.

Hillary Clinton showed that she is an American first, a Democrat second and always a fighter for what is just and right! In that speech she showed why this primary needed to happen. Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama brought out the fight and the spirit that has been lacking in this country for much too long. We owe them our thanks and our votes!

Having been a John Edwards supporter first, I believe that it was he who first showed both Obama and Clinton that they must fight. That fight, is for the people and for our constitution.

Tim Garon, R.I.P.

2008-05-02T19:08:00.003-07:00

Another loss to the inequity and absurd workings of the medical system of the United States. Here, in the only industrialized nation that does not consider health care a right to its people, the question must be asked - who merits the right to live? Should one be denied the right to life due to what is considered to be unacceptable extracurricular activity? If participation is prescribed from a doctor to relieve the pain and nausea from a hideous disease, is it still unacceptable? And if a person is of means to simply purchase any medical treatment necessary, would they still be denied? When does the withholding of such treatment to the person without means become unacceptable?

Tim Garon will never know the answers to theses questions. He died awaiting hope, only to be treated like a criminal. The world has lost a talented musical artist. May his death, and of others like him taken unnecessarily too soon, be a reminder of what's wrong within our borders. May it also propel others to work for what's right.

http://www.komotv.com/news/health/18475224.html

Tim's website.

Tim's MySpace Page.

Tim's CDs at CD Baby. There are links to other locations, to get his music, on the lower left of his CD Baby pages.

The Sick and Tragic - A Call For Help

2008-04-28T18:54:00.004-07:00

This is in regards to an acquaintance of mine and a friend of my dear, late friend Rose. Rose suffered terribly due to diabetes. She was followed in death by another close friend, Billie Jean, who died because she had no health insurance and wasn't able to afford her insulin and other diabetic supplies. She was in otherwise good health, but was unable to balance her blood sugar levels one fateful day.

You may be as upset as I was to find out why Tim can't get the help he needs:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080426/ap_on_re_us/medical_marijuana_transplants

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2008/4/27/03629/6602/250/504192

http://profile.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user.viewprofile&friendid=204896115

http://www.rocketnews.com/topic/world/Timothy-Garon/

Earth Hour 2008 - What are you doing?

2008-03-29T15:39:00.004-07:00

I hope everyone that see this posting will or has participated in Earth Hour 2008.

It is only an hour from 8pm to 9pm YOUR Local time.

For further information on Earth Hour, go HERE

Check out the Earth Hour video.

Is Green Energy Killing Us?

2008-03-10T18:16:00.007-07:00

Today as I was cruising the internet, I came across this unsettling story about Green Energy production that is killing areas of China.

A Dark Side Of Solar Power

The growth of the solar power industry is poisoning land in China, according to the Washington Post.

In the rush to make polysilicon cheaply for use in solar panels, a Chinese company reportedly is dumping toxic waste into the ground, killing wildlife and endangering human health.

The newspaper describes green fields in the nation's eastern central Henan Province that have turned snow-white from the powdery waste of silicon tetrachloride, four tons of which result from every ton of polysilicon created. Toxic hydrogen chloride gas and acids waft from the waste.

To blame is Chinese polysilicon maker Luoyang Zhonggui High-Technology, which supplies to rising solar power star Suntech Power Holdings, according to the Washington Post.

To read more about this problem, follow the link:
http://www.news.com/8301-11128_3-9889848-54.html

I have had reservations about some other versions of so called Green Energy, especially BioFuels and Ethanol. Both of these products, as of right now, rely way to much on "new crops" to make fuel. Much like using new trees for paper making instead of using 100% recycled paper or some mix of new and recycled.

Using land to grow fuel instead of food seems short sighted and morally wrong to me. Cutting down diverse forest, such as the Amazon to grow a select plant for fuel or to raise cattle, also comes across as short sighted and morally wrong.

Besides the stupidity of growing fuel on land that could and should be used to grow food, we also have this potential problem. Since they would be growing fuel instead of food, why bother trying to grow it organically? Why bother with doing things environmentally correct and sound? I feel they will, if they have not already done so, start using as many chemicals as possible to try and get the highest yield at the lowest cost with no regard to the environment or our safety. Thus polluting the ground, the water and the air all for the profit of making fuel.

I believe that all commercially made biodiesel should ONLY be used for big rigs and other types of vehicles that typically use diesel as their fuel. If we increase the demand for consumer biodiesel, then we will be unwittingly increasing the negative environmental impacts causes by the production of these fuels.

The only viable alternative fuels that I believe should be used for cars and light trucks, is hydrogen and electricity. Yes, these all need to be produced by something, but we have a wide array of choices in ways to produce these if we choose to make it happen. Such as, Solar (made cleanly), Geothermal (done with little environmental impact), Wind (with careful placement to diminish visual and noise pollution), Wave and Tide energy (new and looking promising) and many others.

As much as I hate nuclear plants, I could see very very limited use of them (maybe by using the plants that exist) to help produce the hydrogen needed for cars and trucks (fuel cells, etc).

Geothermal is the one energy source that I believe has the biggest potential to make the biggest positive impact, in the shortest amount of time and at the lowest cost.

When it comes to Solar Cell production, I believe that this company is far ahead and looking in the right direction.

NanoSolar - http://www.nanosolar.com

The Progressive 'Sphere' Grows with EENR

2008-03-03T21:30:00.005-08:00

Recently I came across a new Progressive Blog called EENR Progressive Blog.

Our acronym, "Edwards Evolution, Next Revolution," reflects the formation of the EENR group originally as Edwards Evening News Roundup for supporters of John Edwards during the 2008 presidential primary.

Now I might have called it "EENR Progressives Blog" or maybe "EENR Progressive Revolution" (partially playing on what EENR stands for that I quoted above), but that is just me.

What strikes me as a positive, for this new place in the progressive 'sphere', is that they are encouraging more diaries to be written about issues, causes and local races rather than the presidential candidates. It is these presidential 'candidate' diaries that have taken over and ruined so many of the best progressive/liberal/Democratic blogs out there, mainly because of all the mean spirited infighting by supporters of candidates, trolls and freepers.

This little place here, called Washington Woman, would like to one day achieve what EENR is and hopefully will continue to be. A sane place for discussion and action on important issues, causes, events and yes... candidates.

One of the better diaries written at EENR, in my opinion, would be this diary:

Women's History Month: The 19th Amendment

The author of this diary plans on doing a series for the month that are relevant to Women's History Month.

Go ahead and check out the new EENR blog and let us know what you think.

...

As always, one of our FAVORITE places will always be the blog and website for Equal Time Radio.

Martin Luther King, III Praises John Edwards

2008-01-29T17:26:00.000-08:00

Martin Luther King, III Praises Edwards For Leading The Fight For Economic Justice In America.

Following a meeting at the King Center in Atlanta on the afternoon of Saturday, January 19th, 2008, Martin Luther King, III sent John Edwards a letter praising Edwards' commitment to fighting poverty and speaking out for those without a voice. King, the first son of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the President and CEO of Realizing the Dream, said his father was a fighter and urged Edwards to continue the fight for justice and equality. He also urged the other candidates to follow Edwards' lead.

January 20, 2008

The Honorable John R. Edwards
410 Market Street
Suite 400
Chapel Hill, NC 27516

Dear Senator Edwards:

It was good meeting with you yesterday and discussing my father's legacy. On the day when the nation will honor my father, I wanted to follow up with a personal note.
[snip]
So, I urge you: keep going. Ignore the pundits, who think this is a horse race, not a fight for justice. My dad was a fighter. As a friend and a believer in my father's words that injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere, I say to you: keep going. Keep fighting. My father would be proud.

Sincerely,

Martin L. King, III

The entire text of the letter is Here at John Edwards site.

A PDF copy of the actual letter is Here at John Edwards site.

We are also having another grassroots fund raiser.
By using the link from the graphic below, it will take you to a donation page from one of the grassroots supporters. It is a legit page on the John Edwards website.
The link is also here: https://www.johnedwards.com/action/contribute/mygrassroots/?page_id=MjkxNTg

You can also donate by going to http://johnedwards.com and clicking on the DONATE link.

Need something more to do? Need more ways that you can help John Edwards to help all of us?

Please help out if you can.

Look for the links at the top of the phone banking page, here:
http://www.johnedwardsphonebank.com/

Here is a great tool to use for contacting the media and congress.

Congress.org
http://congress.org

Media:
http://www.congress.org/congressorg/dbq/media/

On This Day We Remember... MLK and more.

2008-01-21T12:59:00.000-08:00

On this day we remember Martin Luther King Jr.

Our thoughts are drawn to the fight for racial and economic equality, but some of us may forget the other great things that Martin Luther king Jr. stood for and against, fought for and died for.

He spoke out against the tragedy of the Vietnam War. The comparisons of the Vietnam War and the current tragedy known as the Iraq War, can be seen and heard in his words concerning the Vietnam War and our responsibilities as humans and as citizens of the United States.

He died while fighting for the poor, the disenfranchised and the rights of all workers to unionize for the good of all not just the good of the few, the greedy and the powerful.

This video gets to the heart of his feelings concerning the Vietnam War. These words can and should be used in our opposition to the current tragedy in Iraq.

For a more complete version of Martin Luther Kings Jr's speech about the Vietnam War, please check here:

Martin Luther King, "Why I Am Opposed to the War in Vietnam"

Text of his entire speech can be found here.

Real Audio of his entire speech can be found here.

The following video is very haunting and sobering...

Great minds, Great speeches, Great men, Bad times

On this day and for all days to come, I wish you Peace.

John Edwards Money Bomb! Can it Be Done?

2008-01-17T17:33:00.000-08:00

I totally agree with the grassroots putting together this "money bomb". I hope that we are not reaching to high, but what the heck, if you don't try you fail! So anything that helps encourage people to donate to John Edwards is a good thing.

This idea was originally put together by KingOneEye at DailyKos and it being kept alive across the blogosphere. Here is an example from today.

Can we make this happen? Who knows. Will it succeed in raising a large amount of money in one day? I really think it will.

Click on the picture or go here:
https://www.johnedwards.com/action/contribute/form/

Challenge the system: Why John Edwards Is Right.

2008-01-08T15:21:00.001-08:00

This Video Hits The Point Why Edwards is Right!

This video speaks to the heart of why I support John Edwards. After reading the diaries about the Chamber Of Commerce coming to attack Edwards and Obama, there is no doubt that John Edwards is EXACTLY right on this!

See the diaries here and here.

One Of The Big Reasons I Support John Edwards

2007-12-15T15:28:00.000-08:00

Take a look at this video and see if John Edwards is on the right track. I think he is.

Part of what he states, is that we can not make the changes we need in this country if we do not win the battles against corporate power, big money and greed first.

Dec. 15th 2007 is Bill Of Rights Day

2007-12-14T19:29:00.000-08:00

This saturday Dec. 15th 2007 is Bill Of Rights Day.

I would expect to see the liberal/progressive blogs pushing this as a way to fund raise for our candidates and for our rights, but I see little.

I am a John Edwards supporter because I believe he is honest with his support of We The People, Our Constitution and Our Bill Of Rights.
http://johnedwards.com/

For more information concerning Our Bill Of Rights go here:
http://www.billofrightsinstitute.org/

For information on where and how you can help celebrate Bill Of Rights day go here:
http://billofrightsinstitute.org/borday

In my town we are celebrating it here: (7pm to 9pm)
http://tahomaorganizer.com/annual-bill-of-rights-day-celebration

One last thing, some Dennis Kucinich supporters are attempting a huge one day donation drive on Dec. 15th.

See more info here:
http://www.december152007.com/

and here:
http://www.mydd.com/story/2007/12/14/211235/53

As I mentioned, I support John Edwards but I wish the Kucinich supporters all the best with this fund raiser.

An Open Letter to Sgt. Smith

2007-12-13T08:32:00.001-08:00

Here is a passionate submission to the local publication, The Tahoma Organizer, by my friend Michelle. She, and the Organizer, have been invaluable in this community for being a voice for all of us who care what's happening in our world. Please take a moment to read:

As originally posted at The Tahoma Organizer

An Open Letter to Sgt. Smith

by michelle — 2007-12-12 14:44

I’m sorry that I couldn’t look you in the eye when I saw you in the McDonalds line today.

I’m sorry that I was going to sneak a peek at you on the sly. As I stood behind you, I knew from your height, the width of your shoulders and length of your limbs, the perfect shape of your head and, to be honest, the curve of your buttocks under your uniform, that you just had to be gorgeous. You spoke to the girl behind the counter with a surprisingly rich voice, like a smooth but smoky shot of bourbon, and the inept young woman finally looked up to provide some service, gasped audibly, and didn’t look away from you as she stuttered through your order.

I’m sorry I admired your form even more as the muscles in your back tightened with what I thought was masculine pride at her stare. I’m sorry I couldn’t wait for you to turn around to give me my little thrill of the day.

I’m sorry that half of your face is gone.

I’m sorry your cheek and jaw bones are missing, and that the grafted skin over that grossly concaved canvass looks so painful. I’m sorry your right eye is gone and that I wondered what that obscene, horrific white thing in there was, the sliver that I could see, anyway.

I’m sorry you don’t look people in the face anymore.

I’m sorry that while we waited for our orders I stood beside you for three minutes and didn’t ask what happened, even though I know what happened, so that you could talk about it, explain in a loud voice that you are lucky to be alive and not a freak of nature.

I’m sorry I didn’t tell you how much pain I felt for your injury, for your new life, for the loss of yourself and the challenges you’ll have, maybe the love that you’ll miss, the conflict you must feel, have to feel, any time you are brave enough to look in a mirror.

I’m sorry. I’m sorry that when I went to my car and burst into tears that I didn’t instead burst back into the restaurant and try to take you in my arms as a son or brother, husband or lover, neighbor, human-being, simple vertebrate, anything, to tell you how sorry I am for your loss, to lie to you and tell you everything is going to be alright.

I’m sorry that political parties send me straw polls asking me to help them prioritize our country’s “issues” and concerns, and that when I answer, it is blithely; that when ABC or CNN email me “breaking news” about the stock market I don’t find a way to insist they focus instead on this war and whether its vicious casualties are justified, and to not let go, hang on to that unholy bitch like a pitbull until we get answers and then act on them; that I haven’t sent even one, no, not one, letter to Congress or the President demanding an end or even just a time-out to this war until its purpose has been satisfactorily explained and understood, until we’re all grimly convinced the losses it incurs, including your face and future, really were and are unavoidably necessary.

I’m sorry that I did not start or participate in a different war, a bloodless but possible war that might have stopped the thoughtless and casual use of your flesh, that before I even put on a uniform I felt weary of the probable futility and rolled over, stomach up. It’s possible that when I rolled, my lazy flailing leg tripped the device that blasted your bones into pieces.

I’m sorry if you’ve been told or convinced you’re nobly protecting people like me, people who haven’t bothered to protect you. Because you were the vulnerable one. You enlisted to follow orders. You took orders from people who are supposed to take orders, ultimately, from the citizenry. Me. Us. And we haven’t demanded they be reasonable ones. We haven’t insisted they be held up to scrutiny every single day. Every minute. That very second you became someone no one will ever want to look at.

I’m sorry I didn’t storm the castle for you. You’d do it for me. There is hideous proof. I’m sorry I haven’t been held accountable for what’s happened to you, and to so many others like you. Because I am. I am the one who should hide my face.

I’m so, so sorry, but somehow glad, that I’ll never see you again, that you’ll never tell me you forgive me. Especially if you really do.
Yours, in shame, Michelle

Originally posted at The Tahoma Organizer

Prometa - Pierce County's Swan Song?

2007-12-10T16:57:00.001-08:00

Things have gotten hotter than a glass pipe on a Friday night here in Pierce County, who some have referred to as the meth capitol of the nation. Yes, we have had more than our share of woes due to the hideous epidemic, and that is why it seemed a good place to launch the pilot program known as Prometa. As stated in a previous entry, the program consists of the ingestion of three drugs that have been FDA approved, but not together and not for said purposes. The first dose is administered intraveiniously, followed by supplements twice orally. The effect is said to be a reduction of cravings for methamphetamine, cocaine, and alcohol. This is to enable the patient to focus on counseling, which is required in the program, as well as to adhere to court orders, and to perform everyday tasks. Many graduates have claimed to have had phenomenal results and have credited Prometa with saving their lives. But the program is still in its infancy and the double-blind placebo tests, which compare subjects taking the drug cocktail with those who are only told that they are receiving such, have not yet been released.

Last April, the Pierce County Council voted to allocate $400,000 to the Pierce County Alliance to assist in Prometa aid to those unable to afford the costs. Those working with the program at the Alliance, as well as in other parts of the country who have been participating, have reported dramatic improvements in their clients. So much so, that the Alliance executive director Terree Schmidt-Whelan, in her excitement of Pometa's promise, bought stock in the Hythiam Corporation, the company that produces Prometa. So did Pierce County Executive, John Ladenburg. News of Mr. Ladenberg's purchase made it to some of the Council members, who cried foul due to Ladenberg's vote to approve public funding of the program. Ladenberg, as well as Schmidt-Whelan bought their shares after funding was approved and have since sold them at a loss.

Council members Shawn Bunney and Dick Muri commissioned the work of Performance Auditor Matt Temmel to conduct what was told to the Pierce County Alliance would be a pre-audit to determine if an actual audit into Prometa, and its effectiveness, was money well spent. Then, at the Oct.24 meeting, although not listed on the original agenda, but later amended, Bunney called upon Temmel to give his report. Other Council members and the staff of the Pierce County Alliance were informed on the previous day by e-mail that the Prometa funding would be reviewed. In what would prove to be an emotional exchange of debate between impassioned Alliance members, along with a drug court judge who inquired as to why this was being brought up before the original date of April 2008, and before the study results were concluded, and Bunney and Temmel. Claiming to be a concerned "steward of the taxpayers money", Bunney concluded that he would revoke the remaining funds of $150,000 from the Prometa program, even though Temmel admitted that, while he saw little evidence that the program worked, he had not taken into account the numbers as a whole, including patients who had financed their own treatment and those outside of Pierce County. He had instead focused on the patients receiving county funding, as Bunney had asked. The result has been that other areas of the country are facing having funding cut as well. But, on an interesting note, just up the road in Federal Way, Wa. (King County), on the advice of a former employee who is in recovery due to Prometa, City Council member Jack Dovey has authorized the use of $20,000 to begin a trial program in their city. This, even after the cuts in Pierce County.

The Prometa story had caught the attention of the fine folks from the television show, 60 Minutes, who paid Tacoma a visit. As a long-time fan of the show and having an interest in the story, being as we had been keeping an eye on it at Equal Time, I couldn't resist tuning in. Scott Pelley personally spoke to recovering addicts singing the effects of Prometa. He also spoke to the seemingly disingenuous CEO of Hythiam, Terren Peizer, who also rallied the cry for Prometa as he wiped the crocodile tears from his eyes. He did not, however, speak to Terree Scmidt-Whelan, John Ladenburg, Matt Temmel, Shawn Bunney, Dick Muri, or any other Pierce County Council or Alliance member.

Not too surprisingly to anyone who had been keeping an ear to the political ground locally, after the now infamous council meeting, and only after the 60 Minutes episode went into production, Shawn Bunney announced his candidacy to run against Council member Calvin Goings for the Pierce County Executive seat to be vacated next year by John Ladenburg. Unlike the Tacoma City Council, the Pierce County Council is a partisan race. Goings, like Ladenburg, is a Democrat. So is Pierce County Auditor, Pat McCarthy, who recently announced that she will vie for Ladenburg's position. Bunney, however, is the only Republican who has thrown his hat in the ring to fill the vacancy that will be left behind by the man whose ethics have been called into question over the Hythiam stock purchase and the frivolous spending of the taxpayers' money. Concerned representation or power grab?

Many of us here in our beloved town, ironically dubbed the "most wired city" (in recognition of our own Click! Cable TV company), will be interested in seeing what the placebo studies result in, and whether or not we will continue to tie up our jails and judicial system or continue to look for alternatives that may offer hope.

To follow the News Tribune's coverage of Prometa in Pierce County, see:

http://tinyurl.com/22m7ko

No Woman, No Cry

2007-11-21T09:43:00.000-08:00

Apparently assault is not illegal or punishable in this country if it is
done in the name of entertainment. The only person threatened with
possible arrest was the woman who complied with the perpetrators'
demands. Left out of this article was the fact that the women who didn't
comply had beer bottles hurled at them and they were spat upon. How far
will this mob mentality be allowed to go? While the U.S. falls short of
condemning the misogynistic acts of the Saudi Arabian government, and
considering our stance on torture, how long will it take before we turn
into being just like them?

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/20/sports/football/20fans.html?em&ex=1195794000&en=10054cdcf920bb08&ei=5087%0A&exprod=myyahoo

http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/11/20/africa/ME-GEN-Saudi-Rape.php

Only Fools would Bomb Iran - are we to be the fools?

2007-10-22T19:26:00.001-07:00

Scott Ritter has been right on the money with so many things. The only thing the right wing smear machine ever does to try and counter what he says, is to try and personally smear him. They never deal with the facts and the realities.

So, here we have Scott Ritter giving all of us some good advice and something real to think about. Will we take it, will we listen or will we (under the weight of the Bush administration) be the fool of all fools?

Are We The People fools or is it just the Bush administration and the fools that follow them?

Will we stand up and say ENOUGH or just go back to watching 'reality TV'?

No Bravery...

2007-10-15T20:39:00.000-07:00

Just thinking.....

James Blunt: No Bravery

There are children standing here,
Arms outstretched into the sky,
Tears drying on their face.
He has been here.
Brothers lie in shallow graves.
Fathers lost without a trace.
A nation blind to their disgrace,
Since he's been here.

And I see no bravery,
No bravery in your eyes anymore.
Only sadness.
And I see no bravery,
No bravery in your eyes anymore.
Only sadness
Only sadness

Houses burnt beyond repair.
The smell of death is in the air.
A woman weeping in despair says,
He has been here.
Tracer lighting up the sky.
It's another families' turn to die.
A child afraid to even cry out says,
He has been here.

And I see no bravery,
No bravery in your eyes anymore.
Only sadness.
And I see no bravery,
No bravery in your eyes anymore.
Only sadness.

There are children standing here,
Arms outstretched into the sky,
But no one asks the question why,
He has been here.
Old men kneel to accept their fate.
Wives and daughters cut and raped.
A generation drenched in hate.
Says, he has been here.

And I see no bravery,
No bravery in your eyes anymore.
Only sadness.

And I see no bravery,
No bravery in your eyes anymore.

And I see no bravery,
No bravery in your eyes anymore.
Only sadness.
And I see no bravery,
No bravery in your eyes anymore.
Only sadness.

Oh, Blackwater Keep on Rolling

2007-09-17T23:53:00.000-07:00

In what is perhaps the most momentous decision by the current Iraqi government, the operating license of private contractor, Blackwater - the second largest military force in Iraq, has been revoked. The announcement by Nouri al-Maliki was made on the heels of an incident that occurred on Sept.17 in which a shoot-out involving Blackwater followed a car bombing. The violence left eight civilians shot to death and thirteen injured. Blackwater, has long conducted business as they've seen fit with virtually no oversight or repercussions from the U.S., be it military or government. More than a year ago, the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee held hearings into spending and other abuses in Iraq where testimony revealed the contracted mercenaries indiscriminate civilian killings have been consistent since their entry into the conflict. Rep. Henry Waxman (D. CA), who was present at the hearings and has since become chair, has vowed to investigate this recent event. However, there is little clarity as to whether any entity has jurisdiction over determining punishment.

After the horrors of Hurricane Katrina, the first boots on the ground in New Orleans were those belonging to Blackwater. The city was essentially under martial law. As doctors, medical supplies, food, and drinking water were denied access, the private militia were allowed to ride rough-shod over the town with orders to shoot to kill any and all looters. It would be a full five days before FEMA and other emergency relief would arrive, but trained snipers would be allowed freedom of movement.

In an underreported related topic, Blackwater West is in the planning stages in Potrero, a small town on the California/Mexico border. The intention is to build a massive training camp, where military exercises would be carried out. Not surprisingly, the location has local neighbors as well as Mexicans a bit nervous. Blackwater's involvement in rendition extradition, where detainees have been transported to countries whose interrogation methods include torture, as well as their assistance in immigration detainment, leave an unsettling curiosity.

Founded by former Navy Seal and billionaire heir Erik Prince in 1997, Blackwater's roots have strong conservative and political ties. Prince's father, Edgar, was a domestic adviser for Ronald Reagan. He later became the leader of the Family Research Council and has been closely tied to anti-choice activist, Gary Bauer. Erik's sister, Betsy, was formerly the head of the Michigan Republican Party and is the wife of Dick DeVos, son of Amway founder, Richard DeVos. Amway has been reported to have donated more than $7 million to Republican candidates, and DeVos has personally donated $650,000 to Republicans, $2 million to conservative special interest groups including Focus on the Family, The Heritage Foundation, and The Federalist Society, and $1,000 to Democrat Joe Torsella. Erik himself had once interned for George H.W. Bush, but had decided that he was too liberal and opted to work for Pat Buchanan during his presidential candidacy. Presidential Airways, Inc., revealed by Washington Post writer Dana Priest (who also broke the Walter Reed hospital scandal) to have been contracted to provide air support for CIA secret prisons, is also owned by Blackwater. These are merely a portion of examples that the Princes, DeVos, and Blackwater have their hands in.

And so it seems that Nouri al-Maliki has finally done what our representatives should have done long ago and taken the first step towards standing up to an ideological murderous militia who have been bilking tax payers out of billions of dollars. In fact, if we were simply to pull Blackwater out of Iraq, that would easily equal the return of the escalation that Gen. Patraeus has promised, taking us back to the initial numbers of troops, but who are beholden to laws. The other mercenaries, DynCorps and Triple Canopy, should follow suit. That might be an initial move towards ending this sad, miserable occupation and returning hope to the people of Iraq as well as rebuilding of the respect of other nations.

For more information on Blackwater, see:

http://www.blackwaterbook.com/

http://iraqforsale.org/

Outsourcing IN The USA

2007-09-04T16:40:00.001-07:00

Just in time for Labor Day, this little present from gdub (george bush) and NAFTA.

Kill The Unions!

Yep.. that is EXACTLY what they are trying to do! If you can not outsource the work to another country, then out source the labor within Our Own Country!

Mexico trucks to roll on U.S. highways

Working to kill unions on LABOR Day Weekend! This should be a frickin HUGE story! This story and Our Actions (if we choose to do anything about this) should have legs... Running Loud Stomping Legs!

This WILL Kill Union trucking! PERIOD! How long do you think other unions will survive if the Teamsters are taken down? Remember that trucking and our ports are tightly tied together. Will our Longshoreman Unions be next?

Why do I hear NOTHING from the OCE crowd (obama clinton edwards) when We The People are being f 'd over once again?

What are WE going to do about this? Why are we not screaming about this?!

More here:

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20070901/pl_nm/mexico_trucks_us_dc_1

The only people this helps is the rich and the corporations. Diluting the work force always has the same goals and and the same outcomes. The loss of jobs, pay and security. This is the continuing saga of the wal-marting of the USA.

Just as corporations and stock holders look for the short term profit, many people here and around the world look for low prices and what is quick and easy. Both of these situations and ways of thinking are destructive, not only to the ones doing it but also to the majority of society.

If We The People are not willing to put a stop to stuff like this, then we can only blame ourselves for allowing it.

Our jobs, our way of life, our security, our health, Our US Constitution are all in danger. It is in OUR hands to do something about the corporatism that has run amok both here and around the world! It is up to all of us to make a choice, to think, to take action, to get up off of Our Dead Asses and make a friggin difference!

By the way, this is not about Mexicans. This is about neo-cons republicans and corporatist selling out the USA for profit (they are also doing this to other parts of the world). Keep us busy, keep us down, keep us from voting... keeps the corporatist in power. This is just one more nail in the coffin of the middle class in the USA.

Speak Up and Speak Out!
http://congress.org

Live Earth

2007-07-07T13:36:00.000-07:00

Hopefully, you've gotten a chance to tune into the "Live Earth" concerts
and to take part in some of the excellent advice regarding caring for
our environment. I've been watching it on Bravo, but I understand that
it is also being aired on Sundance.

Here is more information:

http://liveearth.msn.com/

http://www.liveearth.org/

http://www.stopglobalwarming.org/sgw_feature.asp?id=11

http://www.leonardodicaprio.org/

http://kauai.net/bambooweb/whybamboo.html

How to Destroy an African-American City in Thirty-Three Steps - Lessons From Katrina

2007-06-30T16:49:00.000-07:00

Please check out Bill Quigley's brilliant essay in a recent installment of Truthout.org. This sardonic analysis of how the victims of Hurricane Katrina have been treated is a must-read. It chronicles the hell that these people have endured in an unusual and thoughtful approach.

http://www.truthout.org/docs_2006/062907N.shtml

And please give to Truthout, as they are grassroots and one of the best sites to get the full story. They could use your help to stay active.

https://secure.entango.com/donate/pkXd5Fr9GE4

Shocking Discovery Inside a Baghdad Orphanage

2007-06-20T00:59:00.000-07:00

There is absolutely nothing more I can say on this horrific subject, as I'm completely speechless and can barely see the computer monitor through tear filled eyes. Lara Logan, who witnessed this appalling and sickening scene, takes you there in gut wrenching but compassionate detail.

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/06/18/notebook/main2946477.shtml

See the video here (yes, you'll have to sit through an advertisement first, but the story will follow).

http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_video/main500251.shtml?id=2947253n

Torture, Terror, and The General's Report

2007-06-17T16:14:00.000-07:00

Seymour Hersh, one of the last of the true journalists, has a disturbing article in the June 25 issue of The New Yorker. It seems that we have all but forgotten the atrocities of Abu Graib and other detention centers that the United States runs. Of course, this is no accident. Army Major General Antonio M. Taguba tells of some of his findings into his personal investigation of Abu Ghraib, which would eventually cost him his job. As we know, truth is not appreciated by this administration. This lengthy, but very much worth the read, exposure of what took place behind the scenes as some of the horrors were revealed, can be found here on Truthout.org. Please take the time to read this and also to support Truthout.org., as they are donation supported and could use your help.

What Next!? ... Time To Go Home...

2007-06-08T19:34:00.001-07:00

The following is from Dkos:

Pace Fired Because He Balked at Iran
This isn't good news.

THIS IS EXTREMELY OMINOUS

I've been writing for over a year now that the Joint Chiefs have been blocking the White House's efforts to expand the war to Iran. No matter what you might think of Gen. Pete Pace, this really is TERRIFYING news, unless you crave a wider war in the Persian Gulf and South Asia.

Pace has been the most visible symbol of the push-back within the military against the Long War.

MORE below . . .

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2007/6/8/1 54911/3350

PLEASE Read the information linked above and respond, react, DO Something!

Use the following link to help contact your elected representatives and the media. Please do this.

http://congress.org

While you are reading the above information and reacting, please listen and watch the song/video from Michael Franti and Spearhead. It may just be the catalyst that you need to take action!

Time To Go Home:

http://www.youtube.com/frantiv

To see and read the lyrics for the great song, please go to the following link and scroll down a bit:
Posted at MyDD

The Prometa Effect

2007-05-27T14:02:00.000-07:00

To combat the alarming increase of methamphetamine addiction in our nation, a pilot program called Prometa has been launched in several states, including Washington. While it may also be used to treat alcohol and cocaine abuse, its primary use has been directed at bringing relief to meth users. Prometa is not recommended for the treatment of opiate dependence. The program consists of a cocktail mixture of FDA approved drugs, manufactured by the California based Hythiam Corporation, and nutritional supplements administered both orally and intravenously for three consecutive days. Three weeks later, treatment is administered again, this time for two consecutive days. Afterward, the patient will be given prescription medication as well as nutritional supplements for one month. Behavioral therapy is also a vital part of the program.

Hythiam claims that Prometa works by repairing damage done by drugs or alcohol to neurotransmitters contained within the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors in the brain. This is the area that controls inhibitions and also creates a feeling of calmness. The desired effect is to reduce the cravings, as well as withdrawal symptoms and anxiety. By eliminating these obstacles, the patient is more able to focus on dealing with other life aspects, such as controlling stress and emotions, holding down a job, and taking care of children. These are the areas aided by behavior therapy, including counseling and guidance.

According to Hythium and clinics including Pierce County Alliance that are currently utilizing Prometa in their practices, the success rate has been stunning. It has been reported that after six months in the program, 95% of the participants were still producing negative urine screenings, 80% have maintained court compliance, and 75% are gainfully employed. As this is a relatively new study, the statistics may alter somewhat with the passing of time.

The Prometa program is not cheap. A one-month outpatient treatment program can cost $12,000 to $15,000 in a private practice clinic. However, some states, such as Washington, have financially subsidized the program, therefore making it more accessible. In fact, the Pierce County Council (WA state) recently allotted $400,000 in the budget for Prometa assistance. Council members cited the growing epidemic of meth use, with Pierce County as being among the highest in the nation, as a problem too big to not seek alternative solutions. According to the Washington State Department of Ecology, the cost of cleaning up one meth lab can run upwards of $150,000. The numbers of drug labs have skyrocketed; having reached over 100 seized each year since 2001. In 2004, an estimated $50 million dollars was spent in Washington state alone to deal with the clean-up of meth labs, enforcement, treatment, prison costs, health and dental costs, and foster care. The numbers can not be determined regarding costs involving property damage, insurance costs, burglaries, robberies, hospital costs, and other injuries sustained by victims of crime that the meth epidemic has created.

Then there are the environmental effects and health dangers caused by meth. Seven pounds of toxic waste are produced for every pound produced of meth. The production, or cooking, of meth involves using a number of dangerous solvents that can be absorbed simply by breathing or contacting the skin. The effects can include shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, lack of coordination, nausea, and even death. Exposure to these chemicals can cause damage to the skin, respiratory tract, mucous membranes, and central nervous system. Toxins can remain in the carpeting and walls of a building even after the production of meth has ceased.

While it could be argued that the most effective way of combating the problem is to remove pseudoephedrine, which is a common ingredient found in decongestants and the single most important element in the making of meth, from everyday over the counter cold medicines. When ephedra, a naturally growing herb that was the model for the synthetic pseudoephedrine, was shown to increase heart rates and subsequently lead to heart attacks, it was pulled off health food store shelves nationwide. But this action would come at the possible expense of huge
profit losses to the giant pharmaceutical companies. Given the track record of the current members that sit on the board of the Food and Drug Administration, the enforcement of such action seems unlikely anytime soon.

In the meantime, Hythiam's claims that all of the aforementioned symptoms can be relieved, if not eliminated, by curing the addict's desire for the drug, thus changing the behavior of the user, remains to be seen. Ongoing studies and evaluations will determine Prometa's true value, monetary or otherwise.

For more information on the Prometa program, please see:

http://www.prometainfo.com/pi/prometa-treatment/after-care.jsp

http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2003114981_drugtreatment09m.html

To hear interviews and discussions about Prometa on Equal Time Radio, check the links below:

http://equaltimeradio.org/media/20060728.wma

http://equaltimeradio.org/media/20061124.wma

The Secret That Was Victoria

2007-05-05T14:16:00.000-07:00

While America sits in debate over the possibility of her first female president, all but written out of the history books is the chapter containing that of the first female presidential candidate, Victoria Claflin Woodhul. Her 1872 campaign against Ulysses S. Grant was a brazen endeavor indeed, considering that women were not given the right to vote until 1920. Running on the appropriately named Equal Rights Party ticket, her nominee for vice president was Frederick Douglass, who never publicly acknowledged his nomination. Victoria and her sister, Tennessee, opened the first brokerage firm that was owned and operated by women in 1870. While never shying away from controversy, she was founder and editor of the Woodhull and Claflin's Weekly which championed feminism, socialism, sex education, and the labor movement. The first English translation of Karl Marx's The Communist Manifesto was published in an 1872 issue. She denounced the hypocrisy of the expectations of monogamy for women while married men commonly kept mistresses. She later moved to England and established the magazine, The Hmanitarian which was published from 1892 to 1901. She would reside in England until her death in 1927.

For a more in depth look at Victorial Claflin Woodhull and her many achievements, please see:

http://www.answers.com/topic/victoria-claflin-woodhull

Radio Air Wave Infestation

2007-04-09T21:43:00.000-07:00

Perhaps you've heard of the controversy surrounding the shock jocks known as The Jersey Guys. Like any of the other insult hurling, low brow humored, commute time radio DJs, their objective is to gain attention. And, like any other radio station, the objective of WKXW-FM is to gain ratings. This is well understood, for without good ratings you don't attract sponsors who provide the means necessary to exist. There comes a time, however, when one might question the lengths that should be gone to in order to achieve the desired goal.

The most recent flap regarding the The Jersey Guys is their contribution to the anti-immigration frenzy that has engulfed this country. The oh, so cleverly titled "La Cuca - Gotcha" schtick involves enticing listeners to turn in to the Immigration and Naturalization Service anyone that they suspect may be in this country illegally. Of course, the inference of the title being a wordplay on the song, "La Cucaracha", would lead one to assume that this is meant for those pesky Mexican terrorists that have endangered us so. Apparently, if you're name is O'Reilly you have nothing to fear. But singling out certain ethnic groups is nothing new to the Guys.

While the First Amendment of The Constitution still gives us the right to free speech, as it should, one needs to bear in mind the consequences it can bring. "Cucaracha" is the Spanish word for cockroach. During the build up of the Rwanda genocide that took place between the Hutus and the Tutsis in 1994, newspapers and radio stations began a campaign of hatred and fear. Most notably, Radio Milles Collines was engaged in non-stop broadcasts that incited violence and called for the Hutus to rise up and kill all of the Tutsis, whom they referred to as "cockroaches". In fact, the word became a synonym for all of the Tutsi people. The result was anywhere from 500,000 to 1,000,000 men, women, and children murdered. Most were hacked to death with machetes.

I co-host a radio talk show. Most of the topics are politically oriented and the conversation can become a bit heated. One must have the right to speak out, particularly regarding injustice and the government that represents us. One must also be allowed to poke fun at situations in good humor. But I also must ponder if The Jersey Guys know the events and lessons of Rwanda. Perhaps the Guys aren't calling for the killing of anyone, but indeed they are inciting hatred. As we know, it isn't a far reach from hatred to violence.
Jersey Guys, are your incomes so high that you can sink so low? And what about WKXW-FM and their sponsors? Ignorance, if it can be plead, is no excuse.

http://newjersey.indymedia.org/de/2007/03/14134.shtml

http://wfmz.com/view/?id=76069

"Our Soldiers Are Not Toys"

2007-04-07T19:36:00.000-07:00

I found this while reading other blogs.

Cindy Sheehan is active again at Camp Casy III in Crawford, Texas. Just outside of George Bush's ranch, many different groups and individuals have gathered to send Bush another message (I think he is deaf). Groups such as Code Pink, Veterans for Peace, Iraq Veterans Against the War, many other members of Gold Star Families and more.

Code Pink is asking all of us to help push the following video.

You Tube Link

Take a look at Code Pink's site for what they and others are doing at Camp Casey III.

Code Pink at Camp Casey

Don't forget to visit the Camp Casey site at Gold Star Families For Peace.

This Land is My Land

2007-03-27T22:15:00.000-07:00

Well, it was bound to happen. With the devastating blow that was dealt to the citizens of New Orleans from the wrath of Katrina, half of the city fled to seek refuge in other towns as their homes became uninhabitable. Many lay in complete rubble, others might possibly be saved with a lot of hard work and monetary assistance. But the insurance monies, much like the FEMA rescue workers over a year and a half ago, would never arrive. Not before all hope would be lost.

But the spirit and reputation for a love of music and pleasure will always inhabit New Orleans, even if so many of the people who would create and live that vibe had been forced out. There have been immense efforts on the parts of many kind hearted and hard working individuals who have tirelessly toiled to restore the Crescent City and give it back to those it belongs to. Groups like Habitat for Humanity, The Katrina Foundation For Recovery, Inc., and others, along with students choosing to spend their spring breaks rebuilding the city (please see BicycleMark - BicycleMark.org and The Wayward Episcopalian - waywardepiscopalian.blogspot.com).

However, with so much "abandoned" real estate left in unintended disrepair, and the owners having no funds with which to work, vultures have swooped down along the muddy Mississippi salivating at the opportunity to turn others' misfortune into their fortune. These are individuals who could truly make a difference with the riches they've already reaped. They have the ability to help people rebuild and thus help themselves. To restore the city to it's former glory. But that wouldn't guarantee the millions, if not billions, of dollars they stand to profit. Of course, they'll have to clean up those unsightly FEMA trailors, the few that actually made their way from Arkansas and that were only given to homeowners - renters need not apply.

Let the gentrification begin!

The two most prominent individuals playing this game of monopoly are Donald Trump and F. Patrick Quinn. Of course,
The Donald requires no introduction. If one owns a television set it is virtually impossible to avoid the comb-over coiffed magnate pursing his lips and firing some groveling young Trump wanna-be. His latest plans for yet another clever, originally titled Trump Tower to be located in New Orleans, will be the tallest building in the city at the height of 842 feet. The proposed cost of each condominium will be a mere $400,000 apiece for the 299 units There will be another 435 hotel rooms to fetch a steady income.
In a city where a pre-Katrina two bedroom dwelling ran for roughly $600 a month, that same unit is now over $900. Now, take into consideration that should that tenant's job actually still exist, they are having to repurchase all of their necessities and creature comforts.

One of the many sad things that have come to fruition since Katrina is the onslaught of unethical private contractors. In the immediate aftermath of Katrina, George Bush had attempted to repeal the Davis-Bacon Act, which guarantees a fair wage for workers. After a huge outcry from Democrats and union leaders, that option was taken off of the table. Not to be deterred from getting as big a piece of the pie as possible, many contractors simply hired illegal immigrants to perform the necessary duties. However, when it came payday, many refused to pay the workers, knowing that they would have no recourse.

Enter F. Patrick Quinn. Those of you who are not from New Orleans may not be familiar with Mr.Quinn. He first caught my attention last August while in my hotel room in the French Quarter (one of the areas barely affected by the flood). I had the local news on and was quite taken by what I thought should have been a much bigger story, meaning it should have reached the national media. Quinn is the owner of a hotel chain by the name of Decatur Hotels. In the wake of Katrina, Quinn acquired visas for 290 South American workers to provide services in his hotels. He promised them good wages with plenty of hours and possible overtime. The visas stipulated that they were not allowed to work for another employer during their stays. But when the guest workers arrived, they discovered that they would be paid only $6 per hour with no guarantee of full time work. They were made to sleep 5 per room and were charged $50 each per week to rent their rooms. Even more problematic was that they were indentured $3,000 to $5,000 in recruitment and other fees.

Now what Mr.Quinn had apparently not taken into consideration was the fact that, having acquired visas, these workers were not in the country illegally. For these individuals, there was recourse and they had decided to pursue it. They banded together and filed a lawsuit which is currently pending.

Perhaps the most interesting part regarding Mr. Quinn is that, not only is he a most prominent businessman, but he is well connected in a number of ways. His wife, is Senator Julie Quinn (R-LA) and his son, James, is the Executive Director of the Republican Party in Louisiana. And yet I've still not heard a word about this outside of Louisiana.

In a frantic effort to own New Orleans, Quinn has been buying up property as hastily as possible. Perhaps he heard the news that he may get Trumped.

For more information please see:

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1599032,00.html

http://tinyurl.com/2hgpmz

http://www.democracynow.org/article.pl?sid=05/09/16/1222257

Out of the Mouths of Babes

2007-03-26T22:42:00.000-07:00

Every now and then there is a human being that shines brightly above others. Someone who is truly a blessing to the rest of us for the bravery that they exude and the skills they possess to bring it to our attention.

Such a person lives in the adolescent frame of a young teenage girl from Alabama by the name of Ava Lowery. If you haven't yet become acquainted with Ava, it's time you did.

Ava Lowery is the author of an anti-war website and blog titled PeaceTakesCourage.com . She also has a talent for editing thought-provoking and heart wrenching videos that would make PBS proud. Her unflinching honesty and her ability to get her message across has caught the attention of a number of major league media outlets who may well be looking into child labor laws to see of they can't manage to bring her on board.

Meet Ava Lowery, one of our hopes for the future:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0UopOw7FEaI

You can read her website and blog here:

http://www.peacetakescourage.com/page-home.htm

We Just Need a Little Patience

2007-03-19T21:35:00.000-07:00

A quote from Axl Rose, you might ask? No, that would be from our fearless leader asking us, once again, to be understanding of the never ending tidal wave of bad judgments that he continues to make. Never mind that we are the ones who must live with the consequences. And as we enter into the fifth year of the mess he created in Iraq, I am reminded that we here at home are the lucky ones. We, at least, get the opportunity to live at all. With over 3,000 of our soldiers killed (suicide victims and others who died while not actually in combat remain uncounted, as do private contractors), numerous allied soldiers, and hundreds of thousand Iraqi men, women and children have died unnecessarily, we celebrate yet another milestone.

But all that seems to be required is that we be a bit more patient. It seems to me that we stood by a little too patiently as we were fed lie after lie to launch the so-called "pre-emptive strike" and are still standing idly by four years later. We sat back patiently as another election was stolen. It was taken so easily the first time as such a laid-back nation neglected to cry out, how could it go wrong a second? Heck, those nice people won't mind waiting in line for hours on end, because their Democratic leaning precinct doesn't need all those voting machines, just to cast a vote. Unless, of course, they grow too impatient and decide to go home without casting it at all. We were all too patient as our telephone calls were listened to, our e-mails read, our bank statements perused. Not even the repeal of habeas corpus, which entitled us to speedy and fair trial accompanied by an attorney, would even ruffle our feathers. In fact, you don't even have to tell us what crime we're being charged with.

So we just need a little more patience, Mr. Bush? Tell that to the families in New Orleans who waited on their rooftops for nearly a week pleading for help as they treaded the rising toxic waters and watched their loved ones float by. To those same people who still have no homes, no hospitals, no functioning police stations a year and a half later. To the mothers who had to bury their babies because they were unable to pull them from the sludge. To the mothers who have buried their sons and daughters because you refuse to end the madness you created in the war torn land once known as one of the most beautiful countries on earth.

I'd like to raise my glass to toast this anniversary Mr. President, but I'm afraid I've grown a bit too impatient.

http://www.latimes.com/news/nationworld/world/la-fg-iraq20mar20,1,112983.story?coll=la-headlines-world

Remember New Orleans?

2007-03-18T13:20:00.000-07:00

Someone had posted the following article on DailyKos.com but I guess New Orleans is out of vogue, so it went nowhere. This person then cross posted the same article to MyDD.com thinking it would be easier to make it on the rec'd list. Well.. it still has not.

Want to help? Does anybody care about New Orleans and the Katrina area? Have we all become so short sighted that we forget about the people still suffering in the Gulf Coast area, especially in New Orleans?

Check the diary at MyDD.com here:

Back in New Orleans: Recovery Spring Break, Day 1
http://www.mydd.com/story/2007/3/17/19514/9606

They also have a blog of their own that they are using to document the recovery and lack of recovery in the Katrina area.

Check the personal blog here:

The Wayward Episcopalian: Nathan in New Orleans
http://waywardepiscopalian.blogspot.com

I spent fall 2006 working with the Episcopal Diocese of Louisiana's Office of Disaster Response. Though no longer in New Orleans, I have many memories and observations left to blog, and recovery news continues to pour in, particularly about volunteer work, government incompetence, and local spirit.

"The LORD saw it, and it displeased him that there was no justice. He saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no one to intervene." Isaiah 59:15-16

No.. this is not a blog of mine and I do not know this person.

This Is Sick and Wrong!

2007-03-14T21:12:00.001-07:00

This is taken from a comment at SecuringAmerica.com

What is wrong with this country? Why do the rich and powerful hate the American people? Do you think that any of them would use or are using illegal drugs to cope with their pain and illness? No... what was I thinking... how stupid could this common person be.

Even tho I do not smoke pot, I find this to be ridiculous and WRONG!
Court: Dying can be charged for using marijuana
http://www.cnn.com/2007/LAW/03/14/med.marijuana.ap/index.html
If I was dying I would use whatever drug made my life bearable... no matter what! If using some supposed "bad drug" made my life as a sick person bearable and possibly better so that I may heal, then I should be allowed to use it... No Matter What!
So pot is worse then gdub's buddies corporate made drugs?
Whatever!

Just move along now. Nothing to see here. Don't look at that person, they mean nothing to you.

hm.

The Day The Music... died... ?

2007-03-07T17:15:00.001-08:00

Do you think this is important? I DO!

No need for me to add much to this. Please read and take action.
http://www.myleftwing.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=15126

From My Left Wing http://myleftwing.com

The Death of Web Radio Is At Hand
by: The Lighthouse Keeper
Tue Mar 06, 2007 at 19:10:05 PM PST

(originally promoted by Carnacki, re - promoted by Maryscott O'Connor)

Cross-posted at DailyKos
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2007/3/6/15850/52962

I frankly have no idea how many people on My Left Wing pay attention to the music scene, listen to Web radio on a regular basis or think about this issue.

I pray that some of you do.

If you care at all about music, about art, about having a touch of color in your lives, about having a piece of your life that exists outside of the corporate Borg, you need to read this diary and recommend it.

Money is not involved. Your precious time, however, is really needed. It is one minute before midnight.

And by the way, hello. This is my first post here. I hope I can provoke some thought and some action.

While we are trying to save our country, we also have another thing to worry about - something our Democratic representatives played a major role in creating.

The music is about to die. The coup de grace is about to be administered by the U.S. Copyright Office.

more here: http://www.myleftwing.com/showDiary.do?diaryId=15126

Thank you, Gentlemen!

2007-02-23T19:35:00.000-08:00

I'd like to send an appreciative pat on the back to a handful of men who have stood up and had the chutzpah to point out the disturbing imagery and misogyny in Hip-Hop music and videos. Not that its existence comes as a surprise to any of us. Simply tune on MTV at any given hour of the day, as well as the once more grown-up version, VH-1, which have become indecipherable from the other, and you will find scantily clad, mostly black, women gyrating and being photographed at all angles. This, all the while being called "bitches" and "hoes". The clear statement of the plethora of these types of videos that our youth are being bombarded with is that women are to be used for sex and that they have no other worth beyond that. It has even become commonplace to use the word "pimp" to mean the ultimate in cool.

Having worked in the music industry for most of my adult life, I know what an unpopular position it is to be in to point out an artist's responsibility in the message they deliver. I worked for Tower Records during the whole PMRC implementation of warning labels on CDs. Washington State even passed a bill briefly that could send an unwitting clerk to jail for selling indecent material to minors. The bill was subsequently repealed, much to the relief of myself and others, especially since not all product was even stickered at the time. While I obviously was not in support of the bill, I didn't think that labeling the product was such a bad idea. Problem was, while all songs and albums were not alike, all of the stickers were. If one song on the album contained the dreaded "F" word, even though it may not have even pertained to sex, it received the same sticker as those with songs where women were raped, killed, and dismembered (no, I'm not kidding). I had always thought that it should be done more like the movie industry in that it gave you a clue to age appropriateness. For instance, what is okay for my 14 year-old to listen to, might not be alright for my six year-old. Many times I found myself debating the fact a sticker in and of itself does not constitute censorship as long as it is still available to buy.

This brings me to the efforts of filmmaker Byron Hurt. His expose of the crude depictions of misogyny, homophobia, and violence in rap are captured in his documentary, "Hip Hop: Beyond Beats and Rhymes" and is being shown on PBS (please see http://www.pbs.org for dates and times in your area.). Hurt takes a brave look and asks that we accept responsibility. Another refreshing voice is that of Chuck D., of the seminal rap group, Public Enemy. Long known for his outspoken political views, he has been around almost since the birth of Hip-Hop and has watched it evolve. Many of the current young multi-million dollar recording artists have Chuck to thank for paving the way. While another of Public Enemy's founding members, Flava Flav, stars in a reality show where young women embarrassingly degrade themselves in an effort to win Flav's affections, Chuck D. has been continually speaking out against the many abuses that we place upon one another. He hosts a radio talk show on AirAmerica called "On the Real" with Gia'na Garel (please see http://www.airamerica.com for times in your area) where he touches on many topics that concern all of us. He has also spoken out against what he sees as the negative effects of rap music today.

While these topics are not limited to Hip-Hop by any means, it does lend itself to perpetuating not only negative stereotypes of women, but of black culture as well. We, as a society, reward the artists and the record companies handsomely for their questionable contributions. Don't get me wrong, I believe that art and music are necessary for our well-being, but I also have to ponder the effects of the constant bombardment of these messages on our youth and what it does to shape the individuals they become. Yes, ultimately it is the parents' responsibility, but I know that there are messages that have come from the artists that I love that have helped to form my views and point me in the direction to educate myself on certain subjects. Bob Geldof brought to light the starvation in Africa, Peter Gabriel helped me to discover Amnesty International, Maynard James Keenan of the band Tool made me take a little closer look into the teachings of Carl Jung, and Spearhead's Michael Franti teaches messages of peace and muti-culturism that are so welcomed today. So, too, the many women, including Janis Joplin, Siouxsie Sioux, and Johnette Napolitano have taught me that women have a place in music - and not just as scantily dressed boy-toys begging to be used and discarded.

Ms. Magazine - "Paradise Lost", Making a Difference for Women in Marianas

2007-02-13T16:45:00.000-08:00

I received this in an email from Ms. Magazine and wanted to share it with all of you. I am attempting to post this as they sent it. Please take the time to read and respond.

This is a very important subject and needs to be kept alive. This is not the only place stuff like this is happening, so let us not stop here.

Dear ...,

"Paradise Lost" - the explosive Ms. magazine investigative report on the appalling conditions of guest workers in the Northern Mariana Islands, a U.S. territory - is making news again as Congress finally acts to stop the worst abuses. Congress has already delivered a victory for the guest workers in the Marianas by including them in the recently passed minimum wage increase.

Ms.'s hard-hitting cover story brought to the nation's attention the labor and immigration abuses that were the focus of a Senate committee hearing last Thursday. When we published our investigative report last spring, we spurred weeks of additional news coverage and generated widespread public outrage. Two of the women we interviewed for our report - including a young woman trafficked into the sex industry against her will - testified at the Senate hearing.

Make a special contribution to the Ms. Investigative fund today to ensure that Ms. continues to break stories of vital importance to women here in the U.S. and around the world.

Here's the background on the situation:

Although the name-brand clothing companies that contract with garment factories in the Marianas can attach "Made in Saipan (USA)" or simply "Made in the USA" labels to their clothes, until now they have been exempt from U.S. minimum-wage and immigration laws.

Women trafficked to the Marianas, mostly from China and the Philippines, work up to 20 hours a day in factories at a sub-minimum wage of $3.05/hour in often dangerous conditions. In its report, Ms. detailed how these women find themselves in a situation akin to indentured servitude as they struggle to earn enough money to pay for room and board and to repay human traffickers who charge as much as $7,000 for a one-year contract to work in the Marianas.

Moreover, with expiring trade agreements, some companies have closed down their Saipan operations to move to mainland China, leaving their workers stranded and owed months of back-pay. Ms.'s investigative report documented how, unable to make ends meet, many women have been forced to work in the islands' sex tourism industry in order to survive.

Now, with disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff (who lobbied on behalf of Marianas factory owners) in prison, Tom DeLay (a leading supporter of garment-company interests) out of Congress, and other opponents of reform defeated in the November elections, Congress may finally be able to pass long-blocked reforms.

Ms.'s in-depth reporting on the suffering of women in the
Northern Marianas is the kind of ground-breaking investigative journalism that truly changes lives. We are determined to continue to follow this story, and dispatched a reporter to cover the hearings. Look for updates on MsMagazine.com and in upcoming issues of the magazine.

Help Ms. stay strong by making a tax-deductible contribution to the Ms. Investigative Fund now.

For a Strong Feminist Media,

Katherine
Spillar
Executive Editor

Eleanor Smeal
Publisher
http://www.msmagazine.com

Copyright © Ms. Magazine 2006

Worn in the USA pt.2

2007-02-09T16:15:00.000-08:00

Here are a few interesting follow-ups in regards to what's being done about the corruption and abuses in the Mariana Islands:

http://www.msmagazine.com/news/uswirestory.asp?ID=10147
http://www.dailykos.com/story/2007/2/9/24525/93892
http://www.catholicexplorer.com/explore4325/nationworld/rape-victim-catholic-work.shtml

Hopefully, we'll see some some changes made and an attentive eye kept towards maintaining the clean-up.

Dying for Dollars

2007-02-08T21:44:00.001-08:00

To those of you without cable television and are either unable to view C-SPAN (not quite sure why the one form of media where you can actually watch our government at work isn't free) or just happen to choose not to, I must tell you that there have been some incredible goings-on in Congress this week. For instance, L. Paul Bremer, the person who was in charge of the restoration and humanitarian efforts in Iraq and on whose watch billions of dollars disappeared, was actually questioned about his involvement in regards to the missing lucre. Indicted so far are three former Army officers and two civilians for their roles in diverting $3.6 million in Iraq reconstruction money to a contractor in exchange for cash, luxury cars and jewelry.

Last year, I sat in disgust and amazement as I listened to several witnesses tell their stories to a panel that included Henry Waxman (D-CA), Brian Dorgan (D-ND) and John Warner (R-VA) of the things they had seen while in Iraq. A television station that was designated to be the voice of the Iraqi people but became a media outlet for Bremer, plastic sandwich bags containing bricks of $10,000 bundles of cash that were flown in and and handed out indiscriminately, and tales of private contractors murdering innocent civilians. There was even mention of a former FBI agent who had been stripped of his gun, identification, and clothing and was dropped out in the middle of nowhere in Iraq because he threatened to report what he had witnessed.

With the change of Congress this year, Waxman now chairs the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. He has taken on these issues and while we will never see the return of the missing funds to the taxpayers, we may actually start seeing some accountability for a change.

Then again yesterday, I found Henry hard at work. This time, he was looking back into the brave faces of four women, reminiscent of the 9/11 widows that Ann Coulter so callously maligned. They consisted of a daughter, a wife, and two mothers of the four private contractors who were slain, mutilated and hung from a bridge in Falluja in March 2004. The men worked for a company by the name of Blackwater who hire people from various countries to essentially become mercenaries. While I find this practice to be offensive on many levels, I felt the anguish of these women at not only the loss of their loved ones, but also how this company has lied to the families and threatened them with multi-million dollar counter suits for daring to sue them for information. These and other private contractors act under no jurisdiction of any law, be it civilian or military, while they operate in Iraq and are free to behave in any manner they please. All the while making millions of taxpayers dollars. I must also note that of these particular men who were working for Blackwater, only one had been there long enough to even receive a paycheck. The others had only been there a few days and had been sent to the most dangerous part of Iraq with no protection.

For more on this, please see:

http://www.cnn.com/2007/WORLD/meast/02/07/iraq.contractors/

Robert Greenwald touches well on this subject with his film, "Iraq for Sale - The War Profiteers"

http://iraqforsale.org/

Is Somebody Watching You?

2007-02-08T19:38:00.001-08:00

Mirth over at EqualTimeRadio.org has written a great piece having to do with cameras, ID, security and our government. This is a must read that should be shared with everyone you know.

Most of us have heard about some or all of the things Mirth writes about but Mirth puts them together clearly and to the point. If you are not worried about how we are gladly or stupidly giving up our rights for supposed security, then you are a fool.

Here is a taste of what Mirth writes:

Somebody's Watching Me

by Mirth Y'know those airport x-ray scanners? The ones that reveal you nude? Well, they're no longer just for passengers wanting to get from one place to another. Look up! If London is the example, then they're coming to a street near you.
>From the BBC:
Leaked documents said to have been drawn up by the Home Office and seen by the Sun newspaper say cameras which can see through clothes could be built into lamp posts to "trap terror suspects".
While Home Secretary John Reid has denied knowledge of the plans, the technology is not dissimilar to that already found in some UK airports. Currently, air security officials pick out individuals to stand in a booth while three pictures are taken of the person in slightly different positions. Within seconds, an X-ray scanner produces an image of the body, minus the clothes. What shows up is the naked human form and anything that may be concealed on the person, such as coins, a gun or drugs.

Read the rest here: http://equaltimeradio.org/?p=130

Do you care? If so, what are you going to do about it? Try starting here: http://www.congress.org

Congress.org is a great place to use for contacting your local and national elected officials and the media. Phone numbers, addresses and email are all there making it easy for you to take action and to be heard.

Bush says screw you to We The People!

2007-02-03T12:24:00.000-08:00

So Bush wants all of us to sacrifice to help HIS war effort?

"Cutting the deficit during a time of war requires us to restrain spending in other areas," Bush said

Cut social and domestic spending so that he can give his friends, buddies and cronies the tax cuts and "relief" that they sooo desperately need.

Bush also said it would show that his goal of erasing the deficit by 2012 could be accomplished while making his tax cuts permanent.
"Congress needs to make this tax relief permanent, so we can keep America's economy growing. Pro-growth economic policies also play a vital role in our plan to balance the federal budget," he said.

He thinks that these tax cuts for the wealthy and the corporations has helped all of us.

This increase in tax revenue has helped us cut the deficit in half three years ahead of schedule...

You mean the HUGE deficit he has put us in by cutting taxes and waging war at the same time? Cutting taxes and waging war has never been done in the history of this country because it makes no sense!

One of the known but less talked about agenda items by the Bush administration, conservatives and all neo-cons is to defund the government.

They tell you how wonderful tax cuts are while scaring you into going along with huge military spending for illegal wars and to protect us against the "enemy" (Soviet Union, communism, terrorism, etc., etc., etc. - read the book 1984).

By cutting taxes (you love those- right?), raising military spending (you want that because you are scared of all those "bad people" - right?) they put this country into a huge hole when it comes to the deficit.

So the only way to "fix" this economic problem is to make all of us "sacrifice" by cutting social programs. This is what they tell us and you believe this - right? Because you wouldn't want them to "raise" taxes, now would you? Because that would be bad for you - right?

The problem is that the vast majority of tax cuts and "tax relief" has gone to the richest of the rich and to big corporations, like the oil companies, because they are so in need of help - right?

So would this be a tax hike, raising taxes on the average American? Or would this be restoring the taxes to the level before Bush and his cronies put us into such HUGE debt that is going to cripple this country and impoverish the citizens.

So, by cutting taxes, starting wars, raising military spending and mercenary spending (can you say: contractors in Iraq and Afghanistan?), they push us into HUGE debt that can only be solved by cutting domestic and social spending. This is what "defunding" the government is all about. It is to feed the rich and powerful, kill off what they call welfare (domestic and social spending), and keep all of us "little people" too busy trying to survive that we do not have the time to pay attention to politics, the real news, etc. so we end up ignoring what they are doing to us.

More here...

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20070203/bs_nm/bush_budget_dc_3

Worn in the USA

2007-01-28T13:27:00.001-08:00

While this isn't particularly recent news, it does seem to be vastly underreported. Most of us are aware of the wretched conditions that many clothing factories operate under. Some of us have even made deliberate attempts to refrain from supporting companies that make their profits on the backs of slave labor and have chosen to instead spend our own hard earned wages buying American made products, believing that we are not perpetuating the problem. But, unbeknownst to most, many of those same garments are being manufactured in the Mariana Islands, a territory of the United States, and can legally tout the label "Made in the USA".

The overwhelming majority of the workers in the Marianas are immigrants who were promised a better life only to be placed in sweatshops, working long hours under grueling conditions for little pay and with none of the benefits that we have come to enjoy here in the States, albeit seemingly in decline. Many young women, lured with the vow of employment in the restaurant business, have instead been forced into prostitution and some have even been made to undergo abortions.

The Marianas frequent visitors have included Jack Abramoff and Tom DeLay. It is often used as a playground for important politicos and DeLay, who squandered countless tax dollars there, after what was to be an oversight tour of conditions there, once announced at a New Year's Eve party attended by many of the factory owners, "You represent everything that is good about what we are trying to do in America."

I doubt that the American public would proudly exclaim that we stand for inhumane working conditions, sex slavery, and forced abortions. Do the people who represent you?

For more information, please see:

http://www.cnn.com/2005/POLITICS/05/09/real.delay/

http://abcnews.go.com/WNT/Investigation/story?id=647725&page=1

The Silent Screams of Women and Girls

2007-01-20T17:55:00.001-08:00

Please take the time to read the entire script of this stunning piece by Lily Mazahery. She is a Persian-American Attorney who is also an activist for women's rights.

The Silent Screams of Women and Girls

Iran's new Islamic-guided government has established a system of legalized prostitution, through the practice of "sigheh" or "temporary marriages," by which a mullah arranges a "legal union" between a man and a girl (some as young as nine years old) for a fee. The so-called marriage can last anywhere from one hour to 99 years. Under this system, men are free to enter into as many temporary marriages as they so desire, without having any legal obligation or responsibility toward the women and children that they "marry" only to use as sexual objects and slaves.

http://www.jpost.com/servlet/Satellite?apage=1&cid=1167467739732&pagename=JPost%2FJPArticle%2FShowFull

Please also take the time to sign the following petitions. There will be English links:

http://www.we-change.org/spip.php?article19

http://www.meydaan.com/Stoning/petition.aspx?cid=46&pid=9

This is an issue completely separate of the US invasions of Afghanistan and Iraq and the possible imminent attack on Iran. This is a human rights issue and should not be ignored.

Give Us Your Sick, Give Us Your Poor

2007-01-20T15:56:00.001-08:00

One of the issues to be addressed in the upcoming State of the Union Address, not surprisingly, will be the ever increasing health care problem. In another of this president's brilliant plans to help the needy, he has decided that the answer would be to tax the worker on employer provided health insurance. In order to receive a tax break on one's health insurance, you would need to purchase a plan on your own. This comes as no surprise to most of us that non-employer provided medical insurance is offered at a much higher expense and often will not include dental benefits.

The basic concept of the president’s plan is that employer-provided health insurance, now treated as a fringe benefit exempt from taxation, would no longer be entirely tax-free. Workers could be taxed if their coverage exceeded limits set by the government. But the government would also offer a new tax deduction for people buying health insurance on their own.

While he continues to stand firm against rolling back tax relief to multi-billion dollar corporations and wealthy individuals who make their fortunes through investments, apparently he still has no problem letting those of lesser means pay more than their share. This plan would force many to have to opt out of medical insurance altogether and risk the burden of a health affliction or medical emergency creating financial ruin. Thereby, also allowing the employer (Wal-Mart, for instance) to cut back on their expenses by not having to provide insurance to as many workers.

Wouldn't it make more sense, as long as we are continuing to line the pockets of insurance companies rather than opting to move towards a single-payer system, to give the tax breaks to the small businesses to to help them to provide for their employees? How about making insurance companies non-profit organizations? Yeah, I know................

Please see the following story from the New York Times:

Bush Urges Tax to Help Cover the Uninsured

The Department of Injustice

2007-01-19T20:13:00.001-08:00

The words "You can't fight City Hall" never have rang so true. If only it were merely City Hall that we were up against. In another long line of resignations and firings to come out of this administration, U.S. Attorney Carol C. Lam has been removed of her duties. She would be the 11th attorney to step down under pressure from the Bush administration. Prior to her appointment as a U.S. Attorney, she served as a Superior Court Judge in San Diego and served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Southern District of California. She was also Chief of the Major Frauds Section where she successfully prosecuted the case against supplement maker, Metabolife. Most noteworthy of her accomplishments, however, may be the prosecution of former Congressman Randy "Duke" Cunningham (R-CA). You may recall his tearful apology for the estimated $2.5 million dollars in bribes he accepted and his yard sale that contained everything from carpets to toilets that were purchased on illegally obtained monies.

Along with Lam, Kevin Ryan, another Bush appointed US Attorney who and former San Fransisco Superior Court Judge, has been asked to resign as well. Of late, Ryan has made it his mission to investigate corporate fraud and criminal conduct. He had been looking into over 25 companies in all.

Due to a provision in the Patriot Act renewal in March 2006, several US Attorneys were appointed without the approval of the Senate. They can, therefore, be made to resign without just cause. In other words, the Department of Justice decides who is fit to judge or prosecute whatever they deem legally fit. And US Attorney General Alberto Gonzalez dances merrily as this court's jester.

This country's entire judicial system has been hi-jacked by people that would make the Gottis look like Boy Scouts. And, with the implementation of the Patriot Act and the Military Commissions Act, these and other treasonous crimes have been made into law.

Will it take the Hague to determine what is not acceptable in the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave?

For additional information, please see:

http://abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=politics&id=4950090

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/01/18/AR2007011801880.html

http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2007/01/12/WashingtonDCBureau/339592.html

In Honor Of Martin Luther King Jr.

2007-01-15T20:26:00.000-08:00

A great man for a troubled time. Where are our "great men" now?

Why it takes the death of great people for all of us " normal" people to wake up... I will never know.

Watch the entire "I Have A Dream" speech here.

Be at peace but also keep up the fight.

Comments are welcome.

What's Next in Bush's Game of Risk?

2007-01-15T14:20:00.001-08:00

Just hours after George W. Bush issued a speech in which he delivered a thinly veiled threat to Iraq's border countries, Iran and Syria, a U.S. led invasion on an Iranian consulate building in Iraq commenced. Legal documents and computers were seized and 5 Iranian diplomats were arrested. Reasons cited by U.S. officials were that the diplomats were involved in providing assistance to insurgents. However, Iraqi sources argue that the charges are false, that the men had held their positions for the last ten years and that the U.S. gave no warning to Iraq that such operations were to take place.

With many Middle Eastern politicos crying foul and that this was an illegal act, the argument could be made that the U.S. has already launched an attack on Iran. In fact, U.S. weapons inspector, Scott Ritter, announced in 2005 that the Bush administration had already begun proceedings to do so. Shortly thereafter, we began hearing about the frightening possibility of Iran seeking nuclear weapons. Sound familiar? According to Ritter, the war in Iraq had begun in 2002, much earlier than the March 2003 invasion that was so widely publicized. When no weapons of mass destruction were discovered in Iraq (as Ritter and David Kay had stated would be the case), it was largely hypothesized that they had been moved to Syria. I guess in this manner, we get a two-fer.

With the "surge" of another 21,500 troops promised by Bush, one has to ask if this is either prudent or effective. We have men and women already mentally and physically exhausted by what are, for some, multiple tours of duty. We will also be pulling troops from Afghanistan where we have been told that the man responsible for an actual attack on the U.S., Osama bin Laden, is still residing. And let's not forget the recent attack in Somalia. All the while our allies have begun pulling their troops out of Iraq if they hadn't already done so.

How long can we continue to close our eyes to the lunacy that is before us? Have we really not learned from what history showed us such a short time ago when a man with the overwhelming desire for global domination nearly brought down the world? Yes, the victors write the history books. Who will be there to tell the story this time?

For more information please see:

http://news.independent.co.uk/world/politics/article2145136.ece
http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory?id=2781522
http://www.cnn.com/2005/ALLPOLITICS/01/16/hersh.iran/

And to read the article by Scott Ritter:

http://www.commondreams.org/views05/0620-31.htm

Do You Think Bush Finally Gets It?

2007-01-12T00:05:00.001-08:00

What do you think? Real tears or is Karl Rove sticking him with a remote controlled pin?

Tears run from the eyes of U.S. President George W. Bush during a ceremony in honor of Medal of Honor winner Marine Cpl. Jason Dunham in the East room of the White House in Washington, January 11, 2007. Cpl. Dunham was killed when he jumped on a grenade to save fellow members of his Marine patrol while serving in Iraq. REUTERS/Jim Bourg (UNITED STATES)

Found this on Yahoo:
http://news.yahoo.com/photo/070111/ids_photos_ts/r3828336413.jpg

First 100 Continued

2007-01-11T18:59:00.001-08:00

Well, looks like the Dems are off and running. While I have strong feelings regarding Nancy Pelosi's remarks regarding the possibility of impeachment proceedings (about which I have previously stated), so far, so good on the embarkment of the first 100 hours promise. With the passage of the enactment of the 9/11 Commission recommendations, we've had a nice follow-up:

Minimum Wage Increase:

PASSED
Date: Jan. 10
Hour: 12
Vote: 315-116
Republicans in Favor: 82

Fund Stem Cell Research:

PASSED
Date: Jan. 11
Hour: 17
Vote: 253-174
Republicans in Favor: 37

Also of note, but I don't have all of the specifics as of yet are:

Ethics Package (will ban gifts from lobbyists and require full disclosure of earmarks):

PASSED
Date: Jan. 5
Vote: 232-200

Pay As You Go

PASSED
Date: Jan.5
Vote: 232-200

To keep abreast as things progress, watch these links:

http://www.congress.org/congressorg/home/

http://www.nytimes.com/ref/washington/100HOURS_GRAPHIC.html

The First 100 Hours - NY Times

2007-01-10T13:42:00.001-08:00

The New York Times has a nice little piece online showing you the main pieces of the Democratic Party agenda for the first 100 hours.

The First 100 Hours
The Democratic leaders of the House of Representative are moving to pass their 100-hour legislative agenda, but the bills will still need Senate approval and President Bush's signature to become law.

It shows the six main agenda items with the House proposal, the schedule, the Senate's view and the Administration's view.

Under the schedule they will show you when it is scheduled for a vote and if the vote has taken place it will show something like this:

From the vote on the:

Sept. 11
Commission

PASSED
Date: Jan. 9
Hour: 6
Vote: 299-128
Republicans in Favor: 68

They also give you a link in the schedule area for "related" articles.

I am hoping they will keep this updated online at the same web address. This would make this a great link to send out to your friends and family so they can easily see and read the progress of the Democratic Party's "First 100 Hours".

To see and read the whole thing go here:
http://www.nytimes.com/ref/washington/100HOURS_GRAPHIC.html

UN Post-Partisan Depression

2007-01-08T15:40:00.001-08:00

Now that the Democrats have taken over Congress and have clearly stated that they will not support to keep the unelected US representative to the United Nations, John Bolton in his post, word is that George W. Bush had decided to nominate his non mustachioed clone, Zalmay Khalilzad. As you may recall, Khalilzad was a counselor to Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld (who did a bang-up job) and in 2003 was appointed to be US Ambassador to Afghanistan, where he was accused of swaying the elections to obtain a victory for Hamid Karzai. Both men had given early suppport to the Taliban regime and were advisors to Unocal on the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan pipeline. Karzai had worked under former US Deputy of Defense and now leader of the World Bank, Paul Wolfowitz, of whom Mr. Khalilzad was also a protege.

In 1998, a letter was sent to President Bill Clinton urging him to attack Iraq and remove Saddam Hussein. This letter was issued by the Project for a New American Century and was signed by, among others, Donald Rumsfeld, Paul Wolfowitz, John Bolton, and Zalmay Khalilzad. PNAC is an organization dedicated to US global domination using military force and its memberships consist of some the most powerful people in the US government and media (The Weekly Standard's Bill Kristol and the Washington Post's Rober Kagan are members). While refraining from attacking Iraq, Clinton chose to instead focus on quashing the efforts al-Qaida and its leader, Osama bin Laden.

After a scandalous extra-marital affair that rocked the whitehouse which lead to impeachment hearings, Clinton's term expired and was replaced by the judicially appointed George W. Bush. In a package deal, the citizens of this country were bestowed with his extended family, the good ol' boys of PNAC. As we know, patience and loyalty within the Bush family often pays off and in 2005 Khalilzad was given the role of US Ambassador to Iraq.

For more information, please see:

http://www.sourcewatch.org/index.php?title=Zalmay_Khalilzad

Can we really trust that someone with the resume that this individual possesses be a fair-minded representative of our nation? Can we also assume that he will work with others to do what is not only in the best interests of the United States, but for the world as a whole? I believe that the naivete of most of the American people and the underhandedness of a few have not served us well. Isn't it time we moved in a new direction?

A Woman's Place is in the House

2007-01-05T18:03:00.001-08:00

While still warm in the afterglow of the Democrats regaining power in
the Congress for the first time in 12 years and freeing this country
from the choke hold of a one-party system, it has become clear that the
230 odd year struggle for having a woman at the helm of the U.S. House
of Representatives (still only twice removed removed from the Presidency,
but a victory nonetheless) will still be belittled by some. Not for what she
can do but simply by her gender.

Check out Rush Limbaugh's comments on Nancy Pelosi
http://mediamatters.org/items/200701060001

I wonder how tolerated comments about fried chicken and watermelon would
be if Barack Obama should become elected as our first black president?
Never mind his intelligence and capabilities. I assume outcries
regarding such deplorable commentaries would rightly emerge, such as
they did in in regards to the ad campaign against Harold Ford, Jr.
Although somehow missing in the observations of the distastefulness of
said ad, was the fact that not only was it racist, but it was sexist as
well.

It never ceases to amaze me just how little our society has grown when
it comes to how we look at others. Particularly when it comes to our
elected officials, I prefer that we look deeply into ethics that they
hold dear and what deeds are done within the power that they wield
rather than the physical description stated on their driver's license.

Shouldn't There Be More? Is Pelosi A Sign Of The Near Future?

2007-01-04T21:33:00.000-08:00

Seems there should be more to this list. Women in this country have come a long ways but with the help of the media, some of that has been taken away (just think about it).

WOMEN'S MILESTONES IN US POLITICS

1916
Jeanette Rankin, R-Mont., became the first woman elected to the House.

1920
The 19th Amendment to the Constitution was ratified, granting women the right to vote.

1922
Rebecca Latimer Felton, D-Ga., became the first woman to serve in the Senate. She was appointed to fill temporarily a vacant seat and served for only two days.

1925
Nellie Tayloe Ross, D-Wyo., became the first woman governor, after she was elected to replace her deceased husband.

1925
Rep. Mae Ella Nolan, R-Calif., became the first woman to chair a congressional committee, when she headed the committee on expenditures in the Post Office Department.

1931
Sen. Hattie Wyatt Caraway, D-Ark., was appointed to the Senate to succeed her deceased husband. She later became the first woman elected to the Senate.

1933
Frances Perkins became the first woman to serve in the Cabinet, when President Roosevelt appointed her secretary of labor.

1981
Sandra Day O'Connor became the first woman on the Supreme Court.

1984
Rep. Geraldine A. Ferraro, D-N.Y., became the first woman to run on a major party's national ticket, when she was selected by Democrat Walter Mondale as his vice presidential running mate.

2007
Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., becomes first female speaker of the House this week. She became the first woman to head her party in Congress when she was elected House minority leader in 2002.

The preceding list was provided by:
Center for American Women and Politics - Take a look and learn.

Why have we, the most powerful "democracy" in the world, never had a woman president when we had and have many well qualified women that could be president?
Countries of lesser means and so called "third world" countries have had and do have women in the most powerful positions in those countries.
Why not the here in the USA?

I believe the answer lies within the "good old boy" party structure and the degrading and belittling of women through the media.

Are these some of the reasons?

What "sane" voter could ever vote for a woman when so many women let themselves be "used" to titillate?
Worse yet, women who believe they have taken some sort of "power" back by doing these degrading things and using degrading and stereo typing words voluntarily.

Or is it you and I? Are we so blind that we can not reject what the media feeds us? Can we not see the strong and well qualified women in and around our lives and realize that they or someone like them Can Be President?

A Cartoon Gets The Nobel Peace Prize - in 1939

2007-01-04T18:12:00.000-08:00

MGM Cartoon 1939 Peace On Earth
Uploaded by shawshawshaw

The only cartoon ever nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize, this 1939 Hugh Harman cartoon shows a post-apocalyptic world populated by animals picking up the pieces after a war kills every human on earth.

Tell us your thoughts. How do you feel this cartoon speaks to today? Some of the comments left at the original site of this video seem to come from koolaid drinkers.

Some thoughts by Thom Hartmann:

It was broadcast in the US just after Germany had pre-emptively invaded Poland, a protest against Bush-Iraq-style pre-emptive wars, and before the US was attacked at Pearl Harbor and thus entered WWII.

Remember, 911 is not the same as Pearl Harbor. Bin Laden and the Taleban were not working with Iraq (so 911 has nothing to do with Iraq) but Japan was working with Nazi Germany and Germany had been attacking supply convoys to England.

Orginally found on Thom Hartmann's site.

Video comes from DailyMotion

UN Troops in South Sudan Raping Children

2007-01-03T14:00:00.000-08:00

While this isn't the first time these allegations have surfaced, I believe that not enough attention has been devoted to it. Unlike our current and soon to be former US representative at the UN, John Bolton, I don't believe that the UN is useless and should be dismantled. However, I do think that it needs to to be revamped in many areas. It needs to be strengthened while being held accountable for all that it does. That would include removal and prosecution of criminals that run amok who are supposed to be stopping the very actions that they themselves are committing.

http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20070103/wl_nm/un_sudan_peacekeepers_dc_1

Objectification 101

2007-01-02T11:46:00.001-08:00

Published in the Opinions section in the Dec.29 issue in the New York Times was an insightful piece by Lawrence Downes in regards to a presentation he viewed at a middle school program. It calls into question the roles that are now considered acceptable for our daughters. I find this trend to be disturbing and it is incomprehensible to me that so many fail to see what we're setting these young girls up for. In a world where sexually transmitted diseases (some fatal) are on the increase and one in three females will be sexually abused in their lifetime, is this really a responsible approach to preparing our youth for adulthood?

Whether you believe the accusations of the plaintiff in the Duke University campus rape case or not, shouldn't the question be asked if it is okay to allow these boys to hire women to be used, degraded, and discarded on school grounds? And do we want our young women to believe that is their worth?

http://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/29/opinion/29fri4.html?_r=2&oref=slogin&oref=slogin

Happy New Year, One and All!

2007-01-02T00:58:00.001-08:00

And so we say good-bye to another year passed. I can't say that I'm not
more than just a little relieved. On a personal level, this past year
was a continuation of much sadness and loss. On a broader level, that
would seem to hold somewhat true as well. We just closed out another
year of mounting casualties in Iraq and Afghanistan with no end in
sight. There are 48 million Americans without health care and those
numbers seem to be rising. The death and horror continues in Darfur with
nary a mention. And our own unique beloved city of New Orleans still
sits in ruins with no operating hospitals within its city limits and no
electricity or drinking water in the Lower Ninth Ward.

Of course, we were dealt a few new cards as well. Perhaps most important
was the passage of the Military Commissions Act. The little gem that
threw the "quaint" Geneva Conventions Act and Habeas Corpus right out
the window. Yes folks, we can now be labeled enemy combatants and
imprisoned without right to trial or even the right to be informed of
what the charges are against us. Not to mention, the US gets to decide
what we consider torture to be, regardless of the precedent set before
us and, therefore, can administer it as we see fit. Such a fine example
for others to follow.

Despite the aforementioned and other disappointments we've encountered
this year, I do remain cautiously optimistic for the year ahead. After
all, we did end it with a ray of hope. The overwhelming response to the
current administration's deeds were stated clearly by the voters in
November. A sizable feat considering what has become of our electoral
system. The turnout was in proportions to a presidential election year,
something seldom seen in the mid-terms. Republicans lost control of both
the Congress and the Senate and we will soon return to a two party
system. Not a single Democratic incumbent lost their seat. Incredible!

So what does all this mean? Obviously, that remains to be seen. One
thing we do know is that despite what we keep hearing from the talking
heads, the Democrats do have a plan. And while I disagree that it was
the correct thing for Nancy Pelosi to say that the option of impeachment
is off the table, I do keep in mind that the Dems haven't yet taken
control and have had absolutely no power until now and I'm willing to
give them a little time to see what damage they can undo. At the very
least, the first 100 hours that Speaker Pelosi has promised us:

http://www.mydd.com/story/2006/11/22/0259/2848

I consider this to be the Democrats' New Year's resolution. So, as
you're vowing to keep your own, please consider one more. Write or call
your elected representatives and let them know you expect them to follow
through on their promises and keep an eye on how they vote on the issues
at hand. Tell when you are unhappy with the way they represent you but
also thank them and give them support when they do what's right.

http://www.congress.org/congressorg/home/

2006 and beyond

2006-12-31T23:06:00.001-08:00

2006 was an interesting year that had a promising end to it.
With the Democrats taking back congress and with all of us staying on their backs, hopefully 2007 and for many years to come, we will have a sane and respected government.
We all have a lot of work to do to repair the past for our futures.

Happy New Year to you all!

A little taste of our future?

Washington's women pols repeatedly break `glass ceiling'

- from The Daily News in Longview, WA

I am concerned about global warming. Are you?

2006-12-31T16:41:00.000-08:00

The situation is indeed a complicated one. It does boil down to one main commonality. Greed. Of course, that would also be coupled with power.

While the U.S. has a long history of oil interests, never before has it been so blatant. Consider this: why, with all that we now know about the effects of global warming and what we can do to reduce them, are we doing so little to combat the problem? One only has to take a look at the resumes of the current administration for a clue.

Our current leader in chief, George W. Bush, owned Arbusto Energy which was partially financed by a close family friend, James Bath. Mr. Bath was the U.S. representative for Salem bin Laden (brother of Osama) and also had direct ties to the Bank of Commerce and Credit International (BCCI), known to have funded clandestine CIA operations, the Afghan Mujahadeen, defrauded customers of over $10 billion and laundered money to support the efforts of Osama bin Laden. Conclude from that what you will.

George H.W. Bush, the senior, as we all know is the former director of the CIA. He is also the head of the Carlyle Group, which claims to be the nation's largest equity fund, with close ties to oil companies and the Saudi Royal Family. They also paved the way for entry into Asia, including South Korea, have advisory boards in major European companies and are contractors for military operations abroad.

No secret is the fact that our Vice President, Dick Cheney, was CEO of Halliburton (no bid contracts, anyone?), the world's largest oil field services company, who are making a fortune off of the overpriced services they are providing in Iraq that the military themselves would have once performed. I'm sure that it is a mere coincidence that Iraq and Iran sit on a giant wealth of oil.

Condoleeza Rice, our nation's Secretary of State, once sat on the board of directors for Exxon and once had a supertanker named after her.

The list goes on and on with a virtual family tree of oil and financial companies with ties to one another. For a comprehensive view please see:

http://www.opensecrets.org/bush/cabinet.asp

What can be done to change the corruption and head in a better direction towards saving this country and our environment? Besides heeding the suggestions stated in "An Inconvenient Truth" (agreed it is a must see), one must also become familiar with the background and record on which a candidate stands (and then please do vote!).

Another way that I believe is necessary if you truly want to be represented is by publicly funding campaigns. Currently, we have multi-billion dollar corporations throwing in the lion's share of donation dollars to secure their interests. Your elected officials then are beholden to return favors. They not only receive those tax breaks that we keep hearing so much about yet don't actually see ourselves, but other more ominous privileges are often granted.

By embarking on campaign reform with funding elections by the people, we end up saving in the long run. We will save in taxes, medical expenses, etc. And we will have more of a say in what our government supports.

For more information regarding public financing of campaigns, please see:

http://www.publicampaign.org/

Remember, we're all in this together.
...

All of what I write above is in response to a very thoughtful person who wrote the following in a Yahoo Group:

I've been reading a lot about alternative fuel vehicles and polar
bears lately.

I have a lot of questions about global warming. For instance, if
bio-diesel fuel is readily available everywhere (which it really is -
I checked) and diesel vehicles run on it with no problem, and lots of
diesel vehicles are made and sold around the world, why are so few of
them available in the United States? The few that are available are
really expensive.
Also, is it true what anti-electric car people say about disposing of
them once they are wrecked or no longer usable? Are the batteries
really that toxic?
If global warming is bad and cars are a huge cause of it, why haven't
the car companies done everything they can to adapt? E85 vehicles are
not very useful if you can only buy that type of fuel on the East Coast.

We need affordable alternative fuel vehicles that the average person
can afford and access to alternative fuels at convenient locations. We
can't wait 10 years to make this happen. We need it now!
Did you know that more and more polar bears are being seen in
populated areas? And that as soon as people see them, they shoot them?
But the fact is, the polar bear environment is melting, many of them
are drowning and the lucky ones who make it to dry land are welcomed
by a shot gun.
Read more about polar bear problem and what is being done about it on
my blog:
http://www.myspace.com/angelajossyband
I know this has nothing to do with music really, but maybe you'll be
inspired to write a song about it.

Don't Break The Elastic!!

2005-11-19T15:08:00.000-08:00

In April, Maya Angelou was interviewed by Oprah on her 70+ birthday.

Oprah asked her what she thought of growing older.
And, there on television, she said it was "exciting." Regarding body changes, she said there were many, occurring every day...like her breasts.
They seem to be in a race to see which will reach her waist, first.
The audience laughed so hard they cried. She is such a simple and honest woman, with so much wisdom in her words!

Maya Angelou said this:
"I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today, life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow."
"I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights."
"I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents, you'll miss them when they're gone from your life."
"I've learned that making a "living" is not the same thing as "making a life."
"I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance."
"I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on both hands; you need to be able to throw some things back."
"I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I usually make the right decision."
"I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one."
"I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone.
People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back."
"I've learned that I still have a lot to learn."
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

Gregarious guru just for guys? - Will you speak out against this?

2005-10-02T15:46:00.000-07:00

This is intolerable. It wouldn't be allowed to take place if this attack was launched on any other group of people.
. . . . . . .

Gregarious guru just for guys
http://www.thenewstribune.com/ae/story/5208048p-4733089c.html
You’re here doing “Boys Night Out.” What’s that all about?

It’s a theme show kind of along the lines of Blue Collar Comedy Tour or The Original Kings of Comedy. The theme is that it’s comedy by guys for guys only. Women are not invited to this event. You legally can’t keep women out … but we encourage them to stay at home. This is comedy that is specifically aimed at guys, and it is politically incorrect to the max. I’m emcee of this show, and I say the things onstage that I would say on the air if I could get away with it.
..

So what’s going to happen? How do you enforce the “no women” rule?

The comedians are on the lookout for women in the audience. And they and the men who are too (wimpy) to keep the women out … will be brutalized verbally by the people on stage. So go on ahead. Come on in. But you’re going to be meat for the lion.
..

So what’s going to happen? How do you enforce the “no women” rule?

The comedians are on the lookout for women in the audience. And they and the men who are too (wimpy) to keep the women out … will be brutalized verbally by the people on stage. So go on ahead. Come on in. But you’re going to be meat for the lion.

. . . . . . .

Here is my letter to the Paramount Theatre in Seattle, WA.

Dear Mr. Ferguson,

I would like to express my feelings of disappointment over your choice in booking Tom Leykis into your establishment as an avenue to propogate his hatred and misogyny towards the female population. I wonder if you would offer the same hospitality to a person or party that sends a similar message regarding race or religion? Would you book a Neo-Nazi or Ku Klux Klan rally into your venue? I find the sentiment and behavior that is directed by Mr. Leykis to be no less damaging or dangerous than that of the above mentioned groups. Why is it more acceptable when the assault launched against a group of people are women?

I would hope that, in the future, you would consider what you are tarnishing the beauty of the beloved Paramount Theatre with and note that it is cherished and supported by all segments of the population. The revenue that it brings in is furnished by women as well and the message that we are not welcomed and will be abused upon entry is not only socially irresponsible, but fiscally irresponsible as well.

I welcome your response and look forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

(name removed) - tkelly

Contact the Paramount Theatre and let them know what you think:

http://www.theparamount.com/

206.467.5510 ext 150

Contact The News Tribune

Letters to the Editor

Write to:
The Editor
The News Tribune
PO Box 11000
Tacoma, Wa. 98411
Fax: 597-8451
You can also send letters via email at letters@thenewstribune.com or submit them online with this form: click below
https://secure.thenewstribune.com/opinion/letters/.

The original story
http://www.thenewstribune.com/ae/story/5208048p-4733089c.html

But What Can I Do? The Power of One.

2005-09-04T13:48:00.000-07:00

Hello,

With the heartbreaking stories of the devastation coming out of the Gulf Coast, I'm sure we are all feeling helpless. Many have given monetary donations and, hopefully, will continue to do so. But so many of us are unable to give what we consider to be an adequate dollar amount as we are stretched ourselves at the increasingly elevating cost of living and are asking, "what can I do to help?".

Here are a few suggestions. One of the many precious luxuries that those of us outside the storm ravaged and flooded areas have is the ability to communicate. By the very fact that you are reading this means that you have access to the internet. I'm willing to bet that you probably have a working telephone as well. Some of you even have free long distance. You are able to reach out to those who have the means to do something to alleviate the suffering of those in need. Among those you may want to contact are hoteliers. As the events of this past week have shown, football stadiums, which may provide an instant roof over the heads of thousands, were not designed to house people. I'm sure the Hiltons, et.al., could afford to open a few doors to those left homeless.

Another would be cruise ships. They are in a unique position to simultaneously evacuate and provide temporary housing. Interestingly, while I was on the telephone yesterday to Carnival Cruises, they literally updated their web site with the news report that they would be halting the sailing of 3 of their ships to be used in rescue attempts in the Gulf. Of course, this may have been done not entirely of their own volition as they are receiving funding from FEMA, nonetheless, they are doing so. Although they are stationing them in Galveston, and will still need help with embarkment. This was the only cruise line I found to be making a concerned effort. In fact, while all others were pretty much of no help due to the fact that the higher-ups were on Holiday weekend, they were very amiable. Unlike Holland America, whose corporate offices are right here in Seattle. The woman I spoke to demanded to know my name, whether or not I was with the press, and what organisation I was from. Sad, indeed, that a plea would be construed as an attack.

Something that is also very important is that you contact your local representatives and ask them to assist in every way possible. This would include in the rebuilding of the areas affected and that they insist on using the labor of local people so that they can put their lives back together and get their economy flowing. Don't allow them to call in Halliburton and their subsidiaries so that they can continue to prosper off of the anguish of others. You can do this by contacting:

http://www.congress.org

If you can afford the postage you may also want to print out your letters and mail them. Remember how impressive the huge pile of mail on the judge's desk on "Miracle on 34th Street" was? Made you believe in Santa Claus, didn't it?

Also, if any of you are bloggers, you may want to post these and any ideas you may have. I think we've all come to know how powerful these web logs have become.

Thank you for bearing with me and understanding that this is the problem of the entire nation and that we all have a duty to do what we can. We are all vulnerable, whether it be to natural or man-made disaster, or enemy attack. We need to know that we will be able to rely on each other and, hopefully, next time in an expediant manner.

Sincerely,

TKelly