Germany moves on after a close call against a stubborn Algerian side. Nil-nil at the end of 90 minutes, the game went into the overtime period. Germany put one into the net rightaway, then another late in the 2nd OT. Algeria responded with its first goal near the final time, losing 2-1. Porto Allegre locals loved the contest.
Earlier, France finished off Nigeria, setting up a match with Germany. Could be worth watching.
Tomorrow
USA v. Belgium. They are equal on paper and the contest will be rough match for both sides. Jurgen has to fill in a few gaps in the lineup and those moves could make the difference in the outcome.
Watch it.
Monday, June 30, 2014
French Financial Fiasco Finally
BNP Paribas, a French bank. The French Bank. They ran afoul of THE US of A's Justice Department(Eric Holder, Head). After some` years of investigations, the hammer fell today in western Europe. The bank, and its 200,000 employees, agreed to a fine payable to the USA in the amount of $8,900,000,000.(10 places, 8 zeros-count 'em). That's 8.9 billions of dollars. Lots of money you say? Well, yes, to most of us.
But to a bank that is too big to fail, it represents a part of its business, not all. So, have they learned their lesson? Was anybody jailed? Anybody jump off the Eiffel Tower? Apparently not.
President Francois Hollande made a few calls to the White House, but to no avail. How sad.
In 2007, then President of the bank, Baudouin Prot, gave the order to cease all transactions with Sudan, then Iran, then Cuba. That order followed the visit to France of Special Envoy and Treasury Undersecretary for terrorism, Stuart Levey, who informed France and 40 other European banks to abide by US embargoes, especially with Iran.
Investigators uncovered evidence that bank employees took steps to cover up their dealings with the listed countries. So, now, CEO of BNP, Jean-Laurent Bannafe' has his hands full(and a bit tied up). THe COO, Georges Chodron de Courcel, will step down today, June 30.
CEO Bonnafe' gave a statement today to his employees:" Let me put it clearly; we will be severely punished". "Because some malfunctions occurred and mistakes were made."
"Because some malfunctions occurred and mistakes were made"
"Because some malfunctions occurred and mistakes were made"
"Because some malfunctions occurred and mistakes were made"
And the US Treasury is 8.9 billions to the good. This fine comes on the heels of fines levied against Lloyds Banking group PLC and Credit Suisse Group AG, paying penalties of only $350 millions and $536 millions.
Nobody's going to jail, again.
Bankers: gotta luv'em.
But to a bank that is too big to fail, it represents a part of its business, not all. So, have they learned their lesson? Was anybody jailed? Anybody jump off the Eiffel Tower? Apparently not.
President Francois Hollande made a few calls to the White House, but to no avail. How sad.
In 2007, then President of the bank, Baudouin Prot, gave the order to cease all transactions with Sudan, then Iran, then Cuba. That order followed the visit to France of Special Envoy and Treasury Undersecretary for terrorism, Stuart Levey, who informed France and 40 other European banks to abide by US embargoes, especially with Iran.
Investigators uncovered evidence that bank employees took steps to cover up their dealings with the listed countries. So, now, CEO of BNP, Jean-Laurent Bannafe' has his hands full(and a bit tied up). THe COO, Georges Chodron de Courcel, will step down today, June 30.
CEO Bonnafe' gave a statement today to his employees:" Let me put it clearly; we will be severely punished". "Because some malfunctions occurred and mistakes were made."
"Because some malfunctions occurred and mistakes were made"
"Because some malfunctions occurred and mistakes were made"
"Because some malfunctions occurred and mistakes were made"
And the US Treasury is 8.9 billions to the good. This fine comes on the heels of fines levied against Lloyds Banking group PLC and Credit Suisse Group AG, paying penalties of only $350 millions and $536 millions.
Nobody's going to jail, again.
Bankers: gotta luv'em.
Giants Slide Continues: The June Swoon 2014
What happened and when did it happen to SF's Giants? Just a few weeks ago, they were unbeatable: pitching, hitting, defense; all were working in sync. The bull pen, when necessary, were on top of their game. And then the hitting stopped; then the pitching failed, then the bull pen collapsed.
Well, they're still in first place you say. But, they hold the worst record in baseball for the last 3 weeks. And the Dodgers from LA have chipped away at that 9 1/2 game lead. Now what?
We have an All Star Game, mid season break coming this week. With a little rest, maybe the boys will get their MOJO back. Maybe not.
Meanwhile, we have World Cup Soccer to keep us busy.
Well, they're still in first place you say. But, they hold the worst record in baseball for the last 3 weeks. And the Dodgers from LA have chipped away at that 9 1/2 game lead. Now what?
We have an All Star Game, mid season break coming this week. With a little rest, maybe the boys will get their MOJO back. Maybe not.
Meanwhile, we have World Cup Soccer to keep us busy.
Party Time; UC Berkeley
Time to let your hair down: wedding celebration. Here we blended French/ Southern(USA), San Francisco Pride, West Coast, and Mississippi coastal. The Mayor and his entourage put on the finery and jumped in the 'water' w/ both feet appropriately decked out in lizard like shoes.
The ceremony was held in the Mather Redwood Grove on the UC campus in north Berkeley. What a beautiful setting, complete with tiered seating in an amphitheater surrounded by 70 year old coast redwoods. The weather was ideal, almost too warm. But the shade provided by the trees kept all the guests comfortable and in fine fettle.
Mike, the officiant(friend of bride and groom) rose to the occasion with fine words and heartfelt delivery. The bride and groom testified equally to each other their unending love and bottomless happiness. Tears were flowing and tissues were passed around to deal with the flow.
The reception was held in the adjacent UC Botanical Garden Rock Pavilion. The patio here is surrounded by a variety of tall palm trees which gives the site a tropical island-like feel. Mint juleps, Pimms Cup drink, champagne, and a complete selection of beers and French and California wines were set up on the patio. A sit down dinner followed.
After an appropriate time, the party moved back to the patio(where the temperature was much cooler) and the music started. And today, with ipods, music streaming service, portable amplifiers and speakers, any site becomes a hip club. And the guests rolled for hours until well after sundown.
The photo booth and costume accessories added a carnival atmosphere to the event.
No, the Mayor will not share the product of the photo booth. By the midnight bewitching hour, the guests began to slip away, making the rounds, voicing "adieus".
And the ride home was all down hill and only one bridge.
The ceremony was held in the Mather Redwood Grove on the UC campus in north Berkeley. What a beautiful setting, complete with tiered seating in an amphitheater surrounded by 70 year old coast redwoods. The weather was ideal, almost too warm. But the shade provided by the trees kept all the guests comfortable and in fine fettle.
Mike, the officiant(friend of bride and groom) rose to the occasion with fine words and heartfelt delivery. The bride and groom testified equally to each other their unending love and bottomless happiness. Tears were flowing and tissues were passed around to deal with the flow.
The reception was held in the adjacent UC Botanical Garden Rock Pavilion. The patio here is surrounded by a variety of tall palm trees which gives the site a tropical island-like feel. Mint juleps, Pimms Cup drink, champagne, and a complete selection of beers and French and California wines were set up on the patio. A sit down dinner followed.
After an appropriate time, the party moved back to the patio(where the temperature was much cooler) and the music started. And today, with ipods, music streaming service, portable amplifiers and speakers, any site becomes a hip club. And the guests rolled for hours until well after sundown.
The photo booth and costume accessories added a carnival atmosphere to the event.
No, the Mayor will not share the product of the photo booth. By the midnight bewitching hour, the guests began to slip away, making the rounds, voicing "adieus".
And the ride home was all down hill and only one bridge.
Sunday, June 29, 2014
Netherlands Oust Mexico
Robben the flopper. Ok, he sold the foul to the referee in extended time. The defender did make contact with Robben's foot, and then he did a classic belly flop to the turf. SOLD! Whistle, yellow card, PK, goal. Match.
Hmmmm. World class soccer? I don't think so. The Dutch side should be ashamed of themselves. But, Mexico could not control the game. The second half was all Orange. The first Orange goal came on a corner kick rebound strike front the top of the area when Mexico failed to mark the lurking Dutch player_ goal in 88th minute.
The next game should be interesting as Costa Rica tries to make amends for Latin America.
Hmmmm. World class soccer? I don't think so. The Dutch side should be ashamed of themselves. But, Mexico could not control the game. The second half was all Orange. The first Orange goal came on a corner kick rebound strike front the top of the area when Mexico failed to mark the lurking Dutch player_ goal in 88th minute.
The next game should be interesting as Costa Rica tries to make amends for Latin America.
Saturday, June 28, 2014
The Central Park Jogger Case: Update
NYC Mayor Bill DeBlasio vowed that upon his election he would settle the case for claims related to the incident in Central Park in 1989. Recall that on a summer's evening a lone female jogger was raped and beaten senseless by an attacker(s). She survived, but the press seized the incident as symbolic of NYC's decline into mayhem and crime, casting a pall over a city used to grimy streets and their grimy denizens.
Police arrested a group of teenagers who were found in the park at the time, ages 13-16 years old. Four were Black and one Hispanic. The news media cried for justice as the victim lingered in hospital. The police elicited a confession from the group's members and the DA filed charges and the criminal case went forward leading to convictions and long jail sentences, despite the ages of the alleged perps.
One problem: they were not involved in that attack at all, nor were they in the vicinity. The attacker was a serial rapist named Matais Reyes, who admitted to the Central Park attack 13 years later in 2002. The teenagers convicted of the crime were released from prison after DNA evidence indicated they had no part in the attack. Mayor Michael Bloomberg did not want to admit wrongdoing by prosecutors and would not settle the case during his administration, claiming prosecutors acted in good faith. However, as lawyers discovered, the behavior of police interrogators was not only illegal on its face, but morally reprehensible in its outcome: sending the wrong people to prison for much of their young boyhoods. Is $1million per year sufficient compensation? Nobody knows the answer.
Police arrested a group of teenagers who were found in the park at the time, ages 13-16 years old. Four were Black and one Hispanic. The news media cried for justice as the victim lingered in hospital. The police elicited a confession from the group's members and the DA filed charges and the criminal case went forward leading to convictions and long jail sentences, despite the ages of the alleged perps.
One problem: they were not involved in that attack at all, nor were they in the vicinity. The attacker was a serial rapist named Matais Reyes, who admitted to the Central Park attack 13 years later in 2002. The teenagers convicted of the crime were released from prison after DNA evidence indicated they had no part in the attack. Mayor Michael Bloomberg did not want to admit wrongdoing by prosecutors and would not settle the case during his administration, claiming prosecutors acted in good faith. However, as lawyers discovered, the behavior of police interrogators was not only illegal on its face, but morally reprehensible in its outcome: sending the wrong people to prison for much of their young boyhoods. Is $1million per year sufficient compensation? Nobody knows the answer.
Tahoe Summits: #2 Mt. Rose
At, 10,778 feet, Mt. Rose is 100' feet shy of being the basin's tallest peak. The most northern of the 7 peaks, Mt. Rose sits in a 30,000 a. wilderness across from Highway 431 in Nevada. On the slopes of Mt. Rose, a snow surveying system was born in 1904 that changed the world and the world's agriculture. A UNReno professor, James Church, scaled Mt. Rose to determine how much water was bound up in the snow on its slopes and how much would be available for farmers in the valley below.
His system proved so accurate, weighing snow core samples, that it remains as the signal estimate of water management in the West. Church Peak(10,661) to the north of Mt. Rose is named for him. Dr Church taught sub-alpine communities from the Andes to the Himalayas what he learned on Mt. Rose.
In winter, the summit of Mt. Rose is a wind-scoured beaten site of vicious gusts of bone rocking force. Not for the faint of heart. Backcountry skiers have been known to explore the bowls found about the shoulders of the peak.
His system proved so accurate, weighing snow core samples, that it remains as the signal estimate of water management in the West. Church Peak(10,661) to the north of Mt. Rose is named for him. Dr Church taught sub-alpine communities from the Andes to the Himalayas what he learned on Mt. Rose.
In winter, the summit of Mt. Rose is a wind-scoured beaten site of vicious gusts of bone rocking force. Not for the faint of heart. Backcountry skiers have been known to explore the bowls found about the shoulders of the peak.
Friday, June 27, 2014
Supremes Spank Obama
Mr. President, with all due respect, you've violated the constitution and cannot make recess appointments. And don't do it again. Thank you, Supreme Court.
So, Barack Obama becomes one of the 1st modern presidents to be told off by the judicial branch. It now makes many of the rulings of the NLRB subject to review. Apparently, over 242 cases will now have to be scrutinized by the sitting NLRB if there are no longer any recess appointees on the panel. This does not bode well for many decisions favorable to organized labor and Democrat supporting union PACS.
This decision, along with the House speaker's decision to sue the President in court will mean another bad day for Barack O.
So, Barack Obama becomes one of the 1st modern presidents to be told off by the judicial branch. It now makes many of the rulings of the NLRB subject to review. Apparently, over 242 cases will now have to be scrutinized by the sitting NLRB if there are no longer any recess appointees on the panel. This does not bode well for many decisions favorable to organized labor and Democrat supporting union PACS.
This decision, along with the House speaker's decision to sue the President in court will mean another bad day for Barack O.
World Cup Update USA
Jurgen Klinsmann and his boys are moving on into the knockout round of 16. Yesterday's 1-0 loss to favored Germany did not affect the move up because in the other game, Portugal d. Ghana 1-0, giving the USA sufficient margin in goal differential to emerge from group play as the #2 in Group G.
So, the next game will be a nail biter,too. Lose-Go Home. Tie-Shoot out(after OT).
Welcome to international soccer.
Fate of the Biter
Luis Suarez was disciplined by FIFA yesterday: suspension for 10 games. Hmmm. Enough? No, he won't change his ways until he is forced to get professional help for his oral fetishes. This young man must have been deprived as an infant.
So, the next game will be a nail biter,too. Lose-Go Home. Tie-Shoot out(after OT).
Welcome to international soccer.
Fate of the Biter
Luis Suarez was disciplined by FIFA yesterday: suspension for 10 games. Hmmm. Enough? No, he won't change his ways until he is forced to get professional help for his oral fetishes. This young man must have been deprived as an infant.
Wednesday, June 25, 2014
7 Peaks of Tahoe: 1
Peak No. 1
Many mountain peaks surround the lake basin and several are of note: they have names. The first mentioned here is Genoa Peak at 9,150' elev. Located on the eastern rim of the basin, in Nevada, this peak was named by Basque sheepherders who founded the town of Genoa, tucked in under its eastern folds in the Carson Valley.
Sheepherders would bring their flocks to the high pastures in summer to escape the summer heat below. The summit is the easiest of the peaks to attain using the Tahoe Rim Trail. Mountain bikers call this section the Bench Trail owing to its hikers bench available for tired climbers. Many visitors call this trail the most scenic of them all.
Try it.
Many mountain peaks surround the lake basin and several are of note: they have names. The first mentioned here is Genoa Peak at 9,150' elev. Located on the eastern rim of the basin, in Nevada, this peak was named by Basque sheepherders who founded the town of Genoa, tucked in under its eastern folds in the Carson Valley.
Sheepherders would bring their flocks to the high pastures in summer to escape the summer heat below. The summit is the easiest of the peaks to attain using the Tahoe Rim Trail. Mountain bikers call this section the Bench Trail owing to its hikers bench available for tired climbers. Many visitors call this trail the most scenic of them all.
Try it.
Vlad Upstaged by ISIS
In his negotiations with Mr. Poroshenko of Ukraine, the Russysia's Mr. Putin appears to be willing to talk some. Oh, the strategy; oh, the public persona; Oh, the Communist/Dictator type moves.
BORING.
Come on, Vladi. Remember Henry Kissinger? He just turned 90, and even he remembers Stalin. Oh, sure, you were born after Uncle Joe passed, but his several followers were cast in the same mold until Glasnost.
So, don't stomp your little feets and fret about losing the world stage to Heaven- seeking Islamist insurgents; just go with it. Pretend it's Eastern Orthodox destiny at play here. Try as one might, events are often beyond the control of Russyia's head of state.
The map of nation states in the Arab world is being redrawn as we speak. They will not consult Mr. Putin. They will consult with Iran, Egypt, Syria, Turkey, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan, and mayby Kazahkstan. It's summer anyway. Go to Sochi and take the waters; or to your latest acquisition- Crimea. I hear the goat is exquisite.
BORING.
Come on, Vladi. Remember Henry Kissinger? He just turned 90, and even he remembers Stalin. Oh, sure, you were born after Uncle Joe passed, but his several followers were cast in the same mold until Glasnost.
So, don't stomp your little feets and fret about losing the world stage to Heaven- seeking Islamist insurgents; just go with it. Pretend it's Eastern Orthodox destiny at play here. Try as one might, events are often beyond the control of Russyia's head of state.
The map of nation states in the Arab world is being redrawn as we speak. They will not consult Mr. Putin. They will consult with Iran, Egypt, Syria, Turkey, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan, and mayby Kazahkstan. It's summer anyway. Go to Sochi and take the waters; or to your latest acquisition- Crimea. I hear the goat is exquisite.
Sepp Blatter's Problem Biter
Old Sepp Blatter, octogenarian leader of FIFA-soccer's ruling body, has a very high profile problem: a star on a World Cup team can't keep his mouth shut. During its game with Italy, Team Uruguay's star, Luis Suarez, encountered Italian Giorgio Chiellini and gave him an "oral" insult. The insult in the form of a bite of the shoulder by Suarez was not unobserved. This from a player who has accomplished this daring fete at least 3 other times in front of millions.
Well, Sepp, what we going to do about dis player? Suspension for the tournament? Fine and suspension? How about drug testing-he must be on "something"? Will you have an investigation and suspend Suarez during the World Cup, pending that outcome? Will you pass the buck to the referee contingent?
It seems that when it comes to stars and their foibles, FIFA gives them a pass, not wishing to alienate the fan base/club owners/ pretenders to FIFA leadership.
So, Old Sepp, do what you have to do: but do remember: "the whole world is watching and waiting". Please, don't repeat any vampire jokes during any of your announcements.
Latin America's Big Day
We expected this and it happened: during yesterday's play, 3 teams representing Latin American countries won and moved on: Uruguay, home to biters, defeated Italy, sending the Azzurri home to cold pizza; Costa Rica defeated 3 Lion England, sending them home to the usual cool reception; and Colombia defeated Japan, sending sons of Nippon home to face the Emperor. The day was a black eye for the European model; but all's not lost-Germany and Netherlands have yet to finish group play, and little Portugal has a ghost of a chance before they are tossed off with Spain. Greece, resurrected from the financial dead, defeated Cote d'Ivor to exit group play into the knockout round.
Well, Sepp, what we going to do about dis player? Suspension for the tournament? Fine and suspension? How about drug testing-he must be on "something"? Will you have an investigation and suspend Suarez during the World Cup, pending that outcome? Will you pass the buck to the referee contingent?
It seems that when it comes to stars and their foibles, FIFA gives them a pass, not wishing to alienate the fan base/club owners/ pretenders to FIFA leadership.
So, Old Sepp, do what you have to do: but do remember: "the whole world is watching and waiting". Please, don't repeat any vampire jokes during any of your announcements.
Latin America's Big Day
We expected this and it happened: during yesterday's play, 3 teams representing Latin American countries won and moved on: Uruguay, home to biters, defeated Italy, sending the Azzurri home to cold pizza; Costa Rica defeated 3 Lion England, sending them home to the usual cool reception; and Colombia defeated Japan, sending sons of Nippon home to face the Emperor. The day was a black eye for the European model; but all's not lost-Germany and Netherlands have yet to finish group play, and little Portugal has a ghost of a chance before they are tossed off with Spain. Greece, resurrected from the financial dead, defeated Cote d'Ivor to exit group play into the knockout round.
Monday, June 23, 2014
USA vs. Portugal
In a fantastic exhibition, Team USA held Portugal and Ronaldo to a 2-2 tie. It was closer than that and much more than the score indicated. Jurgen Klinsman was exaltant as his team held a 2-1 advantage going into the 5 minutes of extended time. As the clock counted down the final seconds, a collective band of fans held its breathe.
Ronaldo streaked down the side and launched a crossing pass to center and, miracle of miracles, the ball found the head of his teammate who accurately headed the ball past the outstretched hand of the American goalie, Tim Howard, who watched the ball gathered by the net. Tying meant waiting for another week before going on or going home.
So close, so close. 2 American goals earlier had sent fans into a state of euphoria, only to be stunned into silence in the last seconds. Heartache.
Soccer!
Ronaldo streaked down the side and launched a crossing pass to center and, miracle of miracles, the ball found the head of his teammate who accurately headed the ball past the outstretched hand of the American goalie, Tim Howard, who watched the ball gathered by the net. Tying meant waiting for another week before going on or going home.
So close, so close. 2 American goals earlier had sent fans into a state of euphoria, only to be stunned into silence in the last seconds. Heartache.
Soccer!
PUSSY RIOT
What's in a name? What is the exact power of words? These questions come to mind when contemplating this band of Russian women who were arrested and imprisoned by Vlad the Mad for staging a protest/songfest in a church. Mr. Putin does not take kindly to protesters. After all, when your roots are with the KGB, any challenges to authority must be dealt with harshly and quickly. After significant bad press worldwide, the chest-baring narcissist Putin released the girls who immediately started badmouthing the government.
Where are they now? Two of them have taken their act on the road: that would be the US of A. In Vanity Fair to be exact. In a feature page, Nadya Tolokonnikova and Masha Alyokhina grace the current edition in bold colored gauzy costumes: pink and claret red, and lemon and lime. They look great: very Russian, very hip, and comfortably feminine.
They are onto something and are getting good old American advice. Keep up the good work, it's driving Vlad the Mad to the frozen vodka bottle.
Where are they now? Two of them have taken their act on the road: that would be the US of A. In Vanity Fair to be exact. In a feature page, Nadya Tolokonnikova and Masha Alyokhina grace the current edition in bold colored gauzy costumes: pink and claret red, and lemon and lime. They look great: very Russian, very hip, and comfortably feminine.
They are onto something and are getting good old American advice. Keep up the good work, it's driving Vlad the Mad to the frozen vodka bottle.
Fishing Below The Dam
On summer evenings the workingmen gather to fish
in the swift water below the dam. They sit on the
rocks and are silent for the most part, looking into
the water and casting again and again. Lines tangle,
tackle is lost and a fisherman curses to himself. No
one notices. It is simply a part of the routine, like the
backs of their wives in bed at night or short words
to the children in the morning. Only water holds
their attention, crashing through the spillway with
enough force behind it to break a man's back. And
the undertow could take you easily as a bit of
fishline and toss you ashore miles downstream.
The men shout to be heard above the roar of the
water. ANY LUCK? NO I JUST GOT HERE
Louis Jenkins
in the swift water below the dam. They sit on the
rocks and are silent for the most part, looking into
the water and casting again and again. Lines tangle,
tackle is lost and a fisherman curses to himself. No
one notices. It is simply a part of the routine, like the
backs of their wives in bed at night or short words
to the children in the morning. Only water holds
their attention, crashing through the spillway with
enough force behind it to break a man's back. And
the undertow could take you easily as a bit of
fishline and toss you ashore miles downstream.
The men shout to be heard above the roar of the
water. ANY LUCK? NO I JUST GOT HERE
Louis Jenkins
Sunday, June 22, 2014
World Cup Update
Algeria spanks South Korea
Looking for their 1st win in over 30 years, Algeria took the game to the Koreans. earl on, the aggressive Algerian side put pressure on the Korean defense. In short order, 2 goals were in the net. A third was added before the half. The white clad North Africans went to the locker room in a state of euphoria.
The Koreans came back in the 2nd half with a new plan: attack. Soon, it was 3-1, Algeria and the Koreans looking for more. After several great saves, the Algerians countered with another goal. Now 4-1. The Koreans added another, now 4-2. And that's the way it ended. Algeria's first win since 1982.
Coming up: USA vs. Portugal
Looking for their 1st win in over 30 years, Algeria took the game to the Koreans. earl on, the aggressive Algerian side put pressure on the Korean defense. In short order, 2 goals were in the net. A third was added before the half. The white clad North Africans went to the locker room in a state of euphoria.
The Koreans came back in the 2nd half with a new plan: attack. Soon, it was 3-1, Algeria and the Koreans looking for more. After several great saves, the Algerians countered with another goal. Now 4-1. The Koreans added another, now 4-2. And that's the way it ended. Algeria's first win since 1982.
Coming up: USA vs. Portugal
World war II Museum of Boston
While in New England on official business, I had the pleasure of visiting a most interesting private museum dedicated to artifacts of militaria used in WW II. It is the handiwork of a renowned historian, Kenneth W. Rendell. Rendell is the world's preeminent collector of letters and autographs, spending over 50 years collecting, authenticating, and discovering historically significant documents around the world. In addition to his WW II collections, he has WW I artifacts, and significant Western Americana, including an original map of Lewis and Clark's Journey of Exploration 1804-1806.
Unlike New Orleans ' Museum of WW II, this museum is more focused on individuals who were personally involved. Examples of these people include Gen. Eisenhower, Gen. Rommel, Gen Geo. Patton, Gen DeGaulle, Winston Churchill, A. HItler, J. Stalin, and others.
While focused on the European theater, one section includes many elements of the Pacific Theater with considerable attention paid to THE BATTLE OF IWO JIMA.
Attendance is low and we found ourselves alone most of the 5 hours my friend Bill and I spent inspecting the many samples of equipment on display. Unlike most museums, most hardware can be handled whether a rifle, mortar, ammunition belt, or a bazooka. Bayonets, daggers, pistols all are available to heft. A fully restored jeep joins with a Sherman medium tank and an authentic landing craft to offer a lifesized look and some notable vehicles.
The museum staff are knowledgeable veterans and can offer a wealth of information and answer most questions. A valuable asset available is the audio tour device, narrated by Mr. Lendell who not only describes the piece but provides the back story. An example is the medal collection of fighter pilot G. McCampbell who shot down 29 Japanese aircraft in the Pacific. His Medal of Honor was presented to him by Franklin Roosevelt in 1944. His family wanted it to go to Mr. Rendell because of his reputation as an historian par excellant.
The Museum has a website with all details as to hours and visiting conditions.
This is a 5 star location.
Unlike New Orleans ' Museum of WW II, this museum is more focused on individuals who were personally involved. Examples of these people include Gen. Eisenhower, Gen. Rommel, Gen Geo. Patton, Gen DeGaulle, Winston Churchill, A. HItler, J. Stalin, and others.
While focused on the European theater, one section includes many elements of the Pacific Theater with considerable attention paid to THE BATTLE OF IWO JIMA.
Attendance is low and we found ourselves alone most of the 5 hours my friend Bill and I spent inspecting the many samples of equipment on display. Unlike most museums, most hardware can be handled whether a rifle, mortar, ammunition belt, or a bazooka. Bayonets, daggers, pistols all are available to heft. A fully restored jeep joins with a Sherman medium tank and an authentic landing craft to offer a lifesized look and some notable vehicles.
The museum staff are knowledgeable veterans and can offer a wealth of information and answer most questions. A valuable asset available is the audio tour device, narrated by Mr. Lendell who not only describes the piece but provides the back story. An example is the medal collection of fighter pilot G. McCampbell who shot down 29 Japanese aircraft in the Pacific. His Medal of Honor was presented to him by Franklin Roosevelt in 1944. His family wanted it to go to Mr. Rendell because of his reputation as an historian par excellant.
The Museum has a website with all details as to hours and visiting conditions.
This is a 5 star location.
It's Summer: Officially
Solstice= Summer. Here we are-summer 2014. Green grass, wild flowers, bees, bears, coyotes, mountain lions. Lest we forget: jet skis, ski boats with skiers attached, bikes on the highways, beaches packed, restaurants busy, campers, camp grounds full, hikers on the trails, sun burn. Tour boats, party boats, ferry boats, kayaks, inflatables. Oh, and joggers a plenty.
Next up 4th of July.
Drones over Lake Tahoe
Yes, at various locations. The Tahoe Environmental Research Center(TERC) at Sierra Nevada College is producing a new film in 3-D to look at organisms within the lake environment. Steve Andersen of Omnidual Media is managing filming and post production of the film. It is being financed by National Science Foundation and developed in partnership with UC Davis, UC Berkeley Lawrence Hall of Science, ECHO Lake Aquarium Ctr, and Audience Viewpoints Consulting. The film, " Let's Go Jump in the Lake", is scheduled for release this summer.
The film will feature underwater photography and animation features created by Andersen. So, if you see multi-engine drones (UAV's) over the lake: don't panic, it's not NSA/CIA, it's science in action.
Next up 4th of July.
Drones over Lake Tahoe
Yes, at various locations. The Tahoe Environmental Research Center(TERC) at Sierra Nevada College is producing a new film in 3-D to look at organisms within the lake environment. Steve Andersen of Omnidual Media is managing filming and post production of the film. It is being financed by National Science Foundation and developed in partnership with UC Davis, UC Berkeley Lawrence Hall of Science, ECHO Lake Aquarium Ctr, and Audience Viewpoints Consulting. The film, " Let's Go Jump in the Lake", is scheduled for release this summer.
The film will feature underwater photography and animation features created by Andersen. So, if you see multi-engine drones (UAV's) over the lake: don't panic, it's not NSA/CIA, it's science in action.
Saturday, June 21, 2014
Argentina Goes On to Group 16 play
Lionel Messi, the premier Argentinian footballer, struck gold in stoppage time, with an amazing direct strike into the back of the net an inch from the goalie's outstretched hands. Iran put up a tough defense during regular time and it looked as though they would hold the Blue and White to 0-0 tie. But the golden foot of Barce's # 10 put those dreams to rest.
Argentina will now advance to the knockout round of 16, no matter the outcome of their final group play game.
Mrs. Kirchner must be happy because the local folks in BA will continue to focus on World Cup play instead of inflation and bond prices.
Argentina will now advance to the knockout round of 16, no matter the outcome of their final group play game.
Mrs. Kirchner must be happy because the local folks in BA will continue to focus on World Cup play instead of inflation and bond prices.
Friday, June 20, 2014
Immigration at the Rio Grande River
Much press has been given to the "new" immigration problem: children crossing the border between Mexico and the US. These children are not Mexican, but children from Central America, primarily Guatamala. Their parents send them based on the perception that the new US policy is to accept them as minors in need of permanent protection, and to facilitate their permanent residency.
This situation is the result of confusing messages from the White House and Dept. of Homeland Security. Detention Centers for children are now full, and ICE is sending these illegal arrivals to far flung locations where underage individuals can be cared for adequately. While they are treated well, their future is anything but assured. A pathway home is not certain; reunification with family is doubtful anytime soon, and federal policy is obscure and confusing.
Vice president Joe Biden has been sent to Guatamala to explain to families that sending their children north through Mexico is dangerous and does not guarantee any secure future for those children.
My question is: " Where is the government of Mexico in this situation?" Why do they allow these pass throughs to make it north to the Rio Grande? What could possibly be the justification for turning the blind eye to this mass migration? Business as usual........
This situation is the result of confusing messages from the White House and Dept. of Homeland Security. Detention Centers for children are now full, and ICE is sending these illegal arrivals to far flung locations where underage individuals can be cared for adequately. While they are treated well, their future is anything but assured. A pathway home is not certain; reunification with family is doubtful anytime soon, and federal policy is obscure and confusing.
Vice president Joe Biden has been sent to Guatamala to explain to families that sending their children north through Mexico is dangerous and does not guarantee any secure future for those children.
My question is: " Where is the government of Mexico in this situation?" Why do they allow these pass throughs to make it north to the Rio Grande? What could possibly be the justification for turning the blind eye to this mass migration? Business as usual........
Justice Sotomayor and Free Speech Decision
The Supreme Court continues to publish decisions that catch the interest of the public. The most recent case involves the issue of public employees and their rights of speech. The case stems from a lawsuit filed by an employee in Alabama who sued his employer for violating his right of free speech because he was fired for giving testimony to a grand jury that identified a fellow employee who was being paid for work not done. The employee was subsequently found guilty and sentenced to 30 months in prison. The whistle blower was then fired from his job.
The Mayor has an intrinsic interest in free speech and limits on that speech, obviously!
The decision was rendered by Justice Sotomayor writing for the majority. The basis of her argument is that an government employee does not give up his or her rights under First Amendment protections when giving testimony while employed. The case arrived at the Court after the 11th Circuit held that a government employee gave up those rights when giving sworn testimony.
The Court decided that if an employees thought they could or would lose their job for giving testimony, the chilling effect would be to damage the public interest and public good by limiting information that is necessary for the function of sound government.
It seems so obvious to the casual observing government employee that whistle blower need these protections.
Nice job Justice Sotomayor, First Amendment protector.
The Mayor has an intrinsic interest in free speech and limits on that speech, obviously!
The decision was rendered by Justice Sotomayor writing for the majority. The basis of her argument is that an government employee does not give up his or her rights under First Amendment protections when giving testimony while employed. The case arrived at the Court after the 11th Circuit held that a government employee gave up those rights when giving sworn testimony.
The Court decided that if an employees thought they could or would lose their job for giving testimony, the chilling effect would be to damage the public interest and public good by limiting information that is necessary for the function of sound government.
It seems so obvious to the casual observing government employee that whistle blower need these protections.
Nice job Justice Sotomayor, First Amendment protector.
Thursday, June 19, 2014
No Boots On the Ground
Pres. Obama announced a plan today in reaction to events in Iraq during the last week. The US will send 300 advisors to assist the Iraqi Army in its defense of key cities that have been besieged by militants and minority sect members who have taken up arms against Karzai's forces. The Kurds in the north east have taken a key city by driving out members of ISIS(islamists in Syria).
Apparently, this is a continuation of the Arab spring of last year, only this time it involves more people and more state/sovereign nations. The map of the Arab world is being redrawn as I write. What it will look like in 6 months or a year?, nobody can predict.
I don't see the Russians jumping in to this dogfight; they content to roust about within their sphere of influence( hapless border states, newly independent).
Mr. Obama will be burning the midnight oil for the next week. I doubt he'll be watching any World Cup action..
More soon.
Apparently, this is a continuation of the Arab spring of last year, only this time it involves more people and more state/sovereign nations. The map of the Arab world is being redrawn as I write. What it will look like in 6 months or a year?, nobody can predict.
I don't see the Russians jumping in to this dogfight; they content to roust about within their sphere of influence( hapless border states, newly independent).
Mr. Obama will be burning the midnight oil for the next week. I doubt he'll be watching any World Cup action..
More soon.
Mayor's Man on a Mission
The deputy Mayor was sent to the east coast to develop some information about what attracts visitors to the coastal mid-Atlantic states and the Carolinas. Yes, it's the water: Hatteras beaches, calm inland sounds(Pimlico, Core, etc), and the Intercoastal Waterway. Yes, theres are thunder and lightning storms, but that's just like fireworks.
Full report expected next week.
Full report expected next week.
Benghazi is a Dirty Word
Obama wonders: "Will Benghazi ever go away?" Hillary wonders about the same thing. Now we'll get some back story. Abu Khattala was captured by US special forces outside of Benghazi on Sunday. He is in custody somewhere on a Navy ship. He'll be questioned at length about the raid on the US Embassy that resulted in the death of US Ambassador Stevens and 3 other Americans.
Questions of the day: where will the suspect be held?, who will conduct the questioning?, what, if any, charges could be made? Will the Libyan government drop its request for the return of suspect who was apprehended without notification of Libyan officials?
Now it seems Obama has a lot on his foreign affairs desk, the Benghazi suspect is not front page news. The eyes of the world are focused on Iraq. Secretary of State John Kerrey is meeting with Premier Karzai, no doubt informing him that the US would appreciate it if he stepped aside.
We'll know more tomorrow.
Questions of the day: where will the suspect be held?, who will conduct the questioning?, what, if any, charges could be made? Will the Libyan government drop its request for the return of suspect who was apprehended without notification of Libyan officials?
Now it seems Obama has a lot on his foreign affairs desk, the Benghazi suspect is not front page news. The eyes of the world are focused on Iraq. Secretary of State John Kerrey is meeting with Premier Karzai, no doubt informing him that the US would appreciate it if he stepped aside.
We'll know more tomorrow.
Highway 89: Random Topics
The flags are beginning to appear along Highway 89 as the Fourth of July holiday fast approaches. More buoys are dangling ski boats, rafts, kayaks, and jet skis. Soon, navigating inshore will be difficult as a labyrinth of watercraft crowd the harbor entrances. It's Summer, almost. The longest day of the year is upon us. Sunrise sends light to normally dark corners; recesses of the forest are now bathed in rare sunlight, however briefly. Yes, the solstice of summer is nearing the Arctic Circle-its northern limit. Think of the far northerns- 24 hours of sunlight! Amazing. Farther south, endless twilight, summer music festivals, long, warm evenings with the local folks outside long past their bedtime.
At Tahoe, we join in the summerfest with glee: now is OUR time. Oh, yes, temps reach 32 degrees in Truckee, but that's normal. We embrace our flatlander guests and wish them well during their escape from valley heat. We only ask they keep their eyes on the road and that they don't pee in the lake- we drink the water.
What's Up?
Echo summit site will join as a California Landmark. The site near the summit was the site of the 1968 Olympic Trails track meet. The Summer games of 1968 were held in Mexico City at its elevation of 7349'. Echo Summit: 7377' or 28' higher. Lee Evans and Tommie Smith will be among those attending the dedication on June 27th. A follow up event will occur Friday night in Sacramento. The track was removed and taken to South Lake Middle School where it served students for decades.
Olympic Valley City
Opposition grows as resort operators ask LAFCO to be left out of incorporation plans. Squaw Valley Lodge has joined others in voicing opposition, calling the move too expensive and not in the long term interest of property owners and businesses in the valley. LAFCO officials have paid for a study of the move. Proponents are lying low,
Highway 89 continues to be torn up during the day and night: be careful out there.
At Tahoe, we join in the summerfest with glee: now is OUR time. Oh, yes, temps reach 32 degrees in Truckee, but that's normal. We embrace our flatlander guests and wish them well during their escape from valley heat. We only ask they keep their eyes on the road and that they don't pee in the lake- we drink the water.
What's Up?
Echo summit site will join as a California Landmark. The site near the summit was the site of the 1968 Olympic Trails track meet. The Summer games of 1968 were held in Mexico City at its elevation of 7349'. Echo Summit: 7377' or 28' higher. Lee Evans and Tommie Smith will be among those attending the dedication on June 27th. A follow up event will occur Friday night in Sacramento. The track was removed and taken to South Lake Middle School where it served students for decades.
Olympic Valley City
Opposition grows as resort operators ask LAFCO to be left out of incorporation plans. Squaw Valley Lodge has joined others in voicing opposition, calling the move too expensive and not in the long term interest of property owners and businesses in the valley. LAFCO officials have paid for a study of the move. Proponents are lying low,
Highway 89 continues to be torn up during the day and night: be careful out there.
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
June and the Supremes
No, not the musical group, but our own Supreme Court justices. June is a month when decisions are pumped out and yesterday there were a number of decisions rendered, a couple worth a comment or two.
In finance, the Court decided that Argentina has to pay its debts. Now this case stems from the default on debt that occurred in 2001 when Argentina failed to make payments on its bonds. Creditors were forced to negotiate a settlement for a reduction in the amount due. All except a few holdouts who sued; and they won yesterday. The Court said that Argentina cannot pay other debts without making these bond holders whole. And now the ball, literally, is in Argentina's court. They have the money, but it amounts to a significant portion of the cash reserve of the state. Mrs. Kristina Kirchner, sitting president, will finally have to face up to her own mismanagement of sovereign debt. Other bond holders must be a little nervous, as are Argentinians themselves who are currently focused on the World Cup Games in neighboring Brazil.
What now Mrs. President?
Gun Sales
The Supremes also ruled that the "straw sale" of a gun is illegal. An individual cannot purchase a gun for another even if the buyer is a legitimate legal buyer. Justices in the majority ruling 5-4, stated that the intent of Congress was to keep the guns out of the hands of those who cannot legally possess a weapon.
Makes sense to me, but 4 of 9 justices thought it was Ok if the straw sale went through, reasoning that the actual buyer at the transaction was a legitimate buyer. Hmmmmm.....
In finance, the Court decided that Argentina has to pay its debts. Now this case stems from the default on debt that occurred in 2001 when Argentina failed to make payments on its bonds. Creditors were forced to negotiate a settlement for a reduction in the amount due. All except a few holdouts who sued; and they won yesterday. The Court said that Argentina cannot pay other debts without making these bond holders whole. And now the ball, literally, is in Argentina's court. They have the money, but it amounts to a significant portion of the cash reserve of the state. Mrs. Kristina Kirchner, sitting president, will finally have to face up to her own mismanagement of sovereign debt. Other bond holders must be a little nervous, as are Argentinians themselves who are currently focused on the World Cup Games in neighboring Brazil.
What now Mrs. President?
Gun Sales
The Supremes also ruled that the "straw sale" of a gun is illegal. An individual cannot purchase a gun for another even if the buyer is a legitimate legal buyer. Justices in the majority ruling 5-4, stated that the intent of Congress was to keep the guns out of the hands of those who cannot legally possess a weapon.
Makes sense to me, but 4 of 9 justices thought it was Ok if the straw sale went through, reasoning that the actual buyer at the transaction was a legitimate buyer. Hmmmmm.....
Monday, June 16, 2014
Ukraine Out of gas?
Not quite yet. But, Vlad the Mad has cut off nat gas supplies, as he threatened, to Ukraine for non payment. Now russia insists that Ukraine pay in advance. Since Russia occupied Crimea and Russian backed separatists have caused unrest in eastern Ukraine, the government in Kiev wants Russian support to be withdrawn before any negotiations begin over the gas cut off. Western Europe has cause for concern as about 1/3 of its gas from Russia passes through Ukraine. Kiev says they may shut down the pipeline.
Kiev also insists that Russia is stealing gas reserves known to exist in and around Crimea. With the world now focused on Iraq, Russian backed separatists may find the going a little more difficult as major powers amend plans to form a bloc against any secession in Ukraine.
Print media believe that the US must make a move in Iraq, sooner than later. A US Navy aircraft carrier has been repositioned into the Persian Gulf to facilitate any sorties into Mesopotamian airspace. While manned aircraft give more options to planners, there is increased risk involved in their use. (remember the downed pilot in Kosovo?)
Drones, of course, are immediately available but have limited capabilities. They are cheaper, but carry less payload, and by design, are pilotless.
What will Obama do? That is the question of the hour. And what of Maliki, the old scoundrel of Kabul? Will the election results stand? Or will he declare fraud and have another election cycle? And what of Iran and the issue of helping things in Iraq? Tis rather messy. The Kurds in NE Iraq, no doubt, will take advantage. They have already taken control of the city of Kirkuk. Could a separate Kurdistan be far behind? They have the only decent military force in the area. It will be interesting.
We are still waiting to hear from our minister in Beylorus.
Kiev also insists that Russia is stealing gas reserves known to exist in and around Crimea. With the world now focused on Iraq, Russian backed separatists may find the going a little more difficult as major powers amend plans to form a bloc against any secession in Ukraine.
Print media believe that the US must make a move in Iraq, sooner than later. A US Navy aircraft carrier has been repositioned into the Persian Gulf to facilitate any sorties into Mesopotamian airspace. While manned aircraft give more options to planners, there is increased risk involved in their use. (remember the downed pilot in Kosovo?)
Drones, of course, are immediately available but have limited capabilities. They are cheaper, but carry less payload, and by design, are pilotless.
What will Obama do? That is the question of the hour. And what of Maliki, the old scoundrel of Kabul? Will the election results stand? Or will he declare fraud and have another election cycle? And what of Iran and the issue of helping things in Iraq? Tis rather messy. The Kurds in NE Iraq, no doubt, will take advantage. They have already taken control of the city of Kirkuk. Could a separate Kurdistan be far behind? They have the only decent military force in the area. It will be interesting.
We are still waiting to hear from our minister in Beylorus.
USA,USA,USA: Brazil 2014
Get a comfortable chair and enjoy the first World Cup contest for Team America. Their debut contest in group play begins this afternoon in the city of Natal, Brazil. Natal is in northern Brazil and enjoyed a reputation as a reliable airport city during and before WWII. Not so much anymore. Team USA will have their work cut out for them against the Africans of Ghana. Many players on the Ghana team are regulars on top European teams; and although 16 of them are new to world cup play, they bring experience to the pitch.
Results are in: USA 2, Ghana 1. A first round victory, a first game win. This is a big moment for Team USA. One goal, the first, was scored in the opening 29 seconds. The 2nd USA goal was scored by a 21 year old who was born in Berlin, Germany. And, he was a substitute. The 1st goal scored by a substitute in World Cup for USA. Two players sustained minor injuries: Jozy Altadore, a hamstring, not believed to be too serious; and C. Dempsey, a broken nose.
Next up: Portugal, which was thrashed by Germany: 4-nil. So it's USA and Germany at the top of the group.
Results are in: USA 2, Ghana 1. A first round victory, a first game win. This is a big moment for Team USA. One goal, the first, was scored in the opening 29 seconds. The 2nd USA goal was scored by a 21 year old who was born in Berlin, Germany. And, he was a substitute. The 1st goal scored by a substitute in World Cup for USA. Two players sustained minor injuries: Jozy Altadore, a hamstring, not believed to be too serious; and C. Dempsey, a broken nose.
Next up: Portugal, which was thrashed by Germany: 4-nil. So it's USA and Germany at the top of the group.
Sunday, June 15, 2014
Father's Day: 2014
Met my good friend Tom this morning for coffee at Peets. It was a clear morning and lots of folks were about. We chatted with an antique car buff who was driving a pristine 1959 Austin Healey, the British classic. It was black over red with wire wheels and a collapsing windshield. There was no provision for a hard top on this model, only a few extra snap points for the cockpit cover. It did not have a front bumper, only a pair of extra fog lamps.
We discussed the fine progress that our offspring were experiencing in their various endeavors, proud of them all. We congratulated each other on the fine work accomplished over the formative years. While there are no guarantees, we must have made a few right decisions. And of course, we had some help along the way; it takes a village......
We discussed the fine progress that our offspring were experiencing in their various endeavors, proud of them all. We congratulated each other on the fine work accomplished over the formative years. While there are no guarantees, we must have made a few right decisions. And of course, we had some help along the way; it takes a village......
USS CALIFORNIA: SSN 781
While the Mayor was in Portsmouth, NH this past week, he was able to catch a glimpse of a sub aptly named "California". This ship does not make a big impression-there's not much to see from any point of view. When " surfaced", about 98% of the sub is still under the surface of the sea. This ship is built for speed when submerged. Hence, its designation: fast attack submarine, or in the old naval parlance- a hunter/killer boat.
The ship came to the naval station for some routine maintenance and provisions. In 30 days or less, she will return to her assigned patrol duties, somewhere in the Atlantic Ocean.
The name given has been used before on at least 5 former ships. Perhaps the most notable, is the battleship California. That ship was built at Mare island shipyard in 1919. She carried 12- 14' naval guns in 4 turrets, 2 forward, 2 aft. Remodeled in 1929, she was equipped with a wide array of antiaircraft guns to protect the fleet from the new aerial threat. On Dec. 7th, 1941, she was in Pearl Harbor when the Japanese attacked. She was torpedoed, and sunk. Raised 3 months later, she was towed to Washington state for repairs. She returned to duty in January, 1944, and saw action at many landings, including Guam, Tinian, Saipan, and Okinawa.
The new CALIFORNIA is one of the Virginia class of nuclear subs. Smaller than their missile launching cousins, the Virginia class subs have a different mission: find and sink enemy subs. This boat has yet to reach her namesake state, but the Mayor may try to arrange a good will tour; but, it probably won't make it up the Truckee River.
The crew complement of 130 men reflects the smaller over all size. It needs only about as many as a WWII fleet sub.
The ship came to the naval station for some routine maintenance and provisions. In 30 days or less, she will return to her assigned patrol duties, somewhere in the Atlantic Ocean.
The name given has been used before on at least 5 former ships. Perhaps the most notable, is the battleship California. That ship was built at Mare island shipyard in 1919. She carried 12- 14' naval guns in 4 turrets, 2 forward, 2 aft. Remodeled in 1929, she was equipped with a wide array of antiaircraft guns to protect the fleet from the new aerial threat. On Dec. 7th, 1941, she was in Pearl Harbor when the Japanese attacked. She was torpedoed, and sunk. Raised 3 months later, she was towed to Washington state for repairs. She returned to duty in January, 1944, and saw action at many landings, including Guam, Tinian, Saipan, and Okinawa.
The new CALIFORNIA is one of the Virginia class of nuclear subs. Smaller than their missile launching cousins, the Virginia class subs have a different mission: find and sink enemy subs. This boat has yet to reach her namesake state, but the Mayor may try to arrange a good will tour; but, it probably won't make it up the Truckee River.
The crew complement of 130 men reflects the smaller over all size. It needs only about as many as a WWII fleet sub.
Saturday, June 14, 2014
Soccer in Brazil: Update 2014
There were 4 games today and lots of action at all the venues. European rivals Italy and England faced off and the 3 Lions went down 2-1. The Azurri used the head of Mario Balatelli to good effect.
Colombia spanked Greece 3-0, causing euphoria in Bogata. This is only the 2nd appearance for Colombia so it was a nice win.
Costa Rica v. Uruguay didn't turn out as the pundits expected:3-1, winner Costa R. This was an upset. Last and not least: Japan v. Cote d'Ivore, aka Ivory Coast. Japan's Honda(the striker,not the auto) scored early and during the first half looked as though they had command of the situation. But, as we know, things can change in a hurry. When Didier Drogba entered the pitch in the 65 minute, things changed. All at once the orange jerseyed African team turned the game around. Play moved into the Japanese half and shots began to assault the Nippon goal. Within about 5 minutes, the Drogba -led team evened the match and then took the lead at 2-1. THe Japanese were not able to get any attack together and they joined the bottom of the group.
All in all, a fine day for soccer mania, and tomorrow brings more of the same. It starts early, about 8am.
Colombia spanked Greece 3-0, causing euphoria in Bogata. This is only the 2nd appearance for Colombia so it was a nice win.
Costa Rica v. Uruguay didn't turn out as the pundits expected:3-1, winner Costa R. This was an upset. Last and not least: Japan v. Cote d'Ivore, aka Ivory Coast. Japan's Honda(the striker,not the auto) scored early and during the first half looked as though they had command of the situation. But, as we know, things can change in a hurry. When Didier Drogba entered the pitch in the 65 minute, things changed. All at once the orange jerseyed African team turned the game around. Play moved into the Japanese half and shots began to assault the Nippon goal. Within about 5 minutes, the Drogba -led team evened the match and then took the lead at 2-1. THe Japanese were not able to get any attack together and they joined the bottom of the group.
All in all, a fine day for soccer mania, and tomorrow brings more of the same. It starts early, about 8am.
Sunday, June 8, 2014
Balloon over Lake Tahoe
A local(Bay Area reporterdid a nice piece about our balloon concession at South Lake. A half page photo, in color, made an attractive center piece for the column. Who knew that the Coast Guard certified the operation. I guess with bi-state management of local waters, the CG can call the shots about water craft. Seems the balloon is launched and retrieved from a platform on a water craft. hence, a license is necessary to adequately protect paying passengers. And pay they do: $295/per each.
But is it worth it? To quite a few , judging by the 3 of ascents witnessed by your mayor over the past 3 summers. Yes, it is a summer phenom: whom wants to be on the lake in winter?
With about 5 customers, the balloon ascends to about 10,000 feet or about 3500ft above lake level. High enough to look down on all the surrounding peaks: Rubicon Peak, Jakes Peak, Echo Summit, etc. What a view!
Maybe I'll try it. Maybe not.
But is it worth it? To quite a few , judging by the 3 of ascents witnessed by your mayor over the past 3 summers. Yes, it is a summer phenom: whom wants to be on the lake in winter?
With about 5 customers, the balloon ascends to about 10,000 feet or about 3500ft above lake level. High enough to look down on all the surrounding peaks: Rubicon Peak, Jakes Peak, Echo Summit, etc. What a view!
Maybe I'll try it. Maybe not.
Tahoe: Hard to beat
It was a warm and sunny weekend by our Lake in the Sky. Temps danced around the 70's, and maybe hit 80. The Valley was cooking, as usual, nearing 100 in the Upper Sac. More coming. Enjoy-summer is here.
N.C. A.A. or NC2A
The trial begins tomorrow. the trial the NCAA did not want. A courageous former student athlete is challenging the authority of NCAA and all related institutions on certain financial gains given member schools but not athletes. No, it is not about paying students, per se, but whether a college athlete can be paid for the commercial use of his/her image.
Yes, it will open the door(Pandora's Box) and it's about time. here we have Div. 1 coaches making millions; univerities raking in millions more; and the organiztion(NCAA) holding the athletes in bondage.
Enough. We fought wars over slavery. Time to end the charade. I hope the trial will be brief. I hope the athlete prevails against the NCAA.
Yes, it will open the door(Pandora's Box) and it's about time. here we have Div. 1 coaches making millions; univerities raking in millions more; and the organiztion(NCAA) holding the athletes in bondage.
Enough. We fought wars over slavery. Time to end the charade. I hope the trial will be brief. I hope the athlete prevails against the NCAA.
World Cup/Copa Mondiale 2014
Ready or not: Let the Games begin. Futball/ calcio/Soccer as the case may be. Soccer mania is about to grip the world. Most people are rational thinkers except when soccer is involved. Then, reason flies out through the window. Every four years, it is mayhem and madness throughout the sports world.
Not so much here in the States, but, most of the rest of the world. In the States, we have Lionel Messi on the cover of NYT Magazine for today. Now that's a real step up. Not too many years ago, you could walk the halls of any major American media outlet and not hear a word mentioned about soccer. So, there is improvement.
With a German head coach, the American team will be looking for some recognition. It may or may not happen. One star, Landon Donovan, was cut from the roster over some type of disagreement. Not a good sign.
Lionel will play for his native Argentina. Will they accept his participation? Only time will tell. But if he becomes a scoring machine, who will care where he's from?
The first round begins this week. Stay awake and have some soccer fun.
Not so much here in the States, but, most of the rest of the world. In the States, we have Lionel Messi on the cover of NYT Magazine for today. Now that's a real step up. Not too many years ago, you could walk the halls of any major American media outlet and not hear a word mentioned about soccer. So, there is improvement.
With a German head coach, the American team will be looking for some recognition. It may or may not happen. One star, Landon Donovan, was cut from the roster over some type of disagreement. Not a good sign.
Lionel will play for his native Argentina. Will they accept his participation? Only time will tell. But if he becomes a scoring machine, who will care where he's from?
The first round begins this week. Stay awake and have some soccer fun.
Saturday, June 7, 2014
2nd Lt. Walter Ehlers, MOH
Last February, Walt Ehlers passed away at age 92. He lived a long and fruitful life. But that long life was not guaranteed and was in serious doubt in June, 1944. Walt was a young staff sgt. when his company crossed Omaha Beach in Normandy. Walt was an experienced infantryman having fought through North Africa and Sicily, and he knew how to survive and how to lead others who wanted to survive: advance, don't get pinned down. On June 9th, '44, he and his squad were in Goville, France, where he led them against German machine gun nests, taking multiple positions. The next day, the 10th, his squad covered the withdrawal of his platoon, and he, according to the MOH citation, " stood up and by continuous fire at the semicircle of enemy emplacements, diverted the bulk of heavy hostile fire on himself, thus permitting the members of his own squad to withdraw". He was shot through the back, but was able to assist an AR man to safety, then returning to his squad after medics patched his wounds.
Part of the back story of Lt. Ehlers involves his brother, whose landing craft never made it to Omaha Beach, taking a direct hit from mortar fire killing all on board. Lt. Ehlers had nightmares for 50 years, until he gave a speech at the 50year Anniversary of D-day with pres. Clinton and Queen Elizabeth listening. After that day, the nightmares went away, he was finally able to confront his brother's death.
His remarkable speech included these words:
" While we braved these then -fortified beaches to beat back Hitler and to liberate Europe...we fought for much more than that.. We fought to preserve what our forefathers had died for.... to protect our faith, to preserve our liberty...I pray that the price we paid on this beach will never be mortgaged, that my grandsons and granddaughters will never face the terror and horror that we faced here. But they must know that without freedom, there is no life and, that the things worth living for, may sometimes demand dying for."
Lt. Ehlers was the last living recipient of the Medal of Honor earned at D-Day. He was a long time employee of the VA where fellow workers did not know of his medal.
Part of the back story of Lt. Ehlers involves his brother, whose landing craft never made it to Omaha Beach, taking a direct hit from mortar fire killing all on board. Lt. Ehlers had nightmares for 50 years, until he gave a speech at the 50year Anniversary of D-day with pres. Clinton and Queen Elizabeth listening. After that day, the nightmares went away, he was finally able to confront his brother's death.
His remarkable speech included these words:
" While we braved these then -fortified beaches to beat back Hitler and to liberate Europe...we fought for much more than that.. We fought to preserve what our forefathers had died for.... to protect our faith, to preserve our liberty...I pray that the price we paid on this beach will never be mortgaged, that my grandsons and granddaughters will never face the terror and horror that we faced here. But they must know that without freedom, there is no life and, that the things worth living for, may sometimes demand dying for."
Lt. Ehlers was the last living recipient of the Medal of Honor earned at D-Day. He was a long time employee of the VA where fellow workers did not know of his medal.
Russia in the Western Hemisphere?
Today's WSJ carries an advertising supplement from our good friends in the Kremlin. We have seen these paper touts before, nominally called"Russia Beyond The Headlines", ( RBTH) often following some indiscretion or another. Is Ukraine an indiscretion? Hmmmm. Seems like it's business as usual for old Vlad the Putin.
Within the sheets(8pgs) is a story about an alleged agreement signed with Nicaragua, China, and Russkya to build a new east/west canal through central America. According to our friend Yuri Paniev, staff writer for the RDTH rag, the project will include an oil pipeline, an airport, two seaports, and a wider/deeper ship channel. Costs estimated to be $40 billion and take about 15 years to complete. Workers will come from China and Central America. Russia's role will be to provide security for construction crews. We know about excitable locals in and around the Isthmus.
Major funding will come from China's HKND, which received a 100 year concession from Managua.
A special agreement is alleged to have been signed by Russia and Nicaragua allowing Russky warships into local waters for 6 months of the year and to carry out coastal patrols. ( Will the Russky naval vessels include the new French built amphibious ships?) Hmmmm.
Whatever ships were to show up in either the Caribbean or the Pacific Oceans, clouds of drones would be their closest companions throughout the operation(s).
Emil Dabagyan, of the Institute of Latin America at the Russian Acad. of Sciences, says the U.S. will lose control of the area with this new canal option.
So, we have Vlad moving pawns into the U.S. front yard. I guess NATO will have to start spending a few more Euro's on uniforms, boots, and foul weather gear as winter approaches in eastern Europe.
Within the sheets(8pgs) is a story about an alleged agreement signed with Nicaragua, China, and Russkya to build a new east/west canal through central America. According to our friend Yuri Paniev, staff writer for the RDTH rag, the project will include an oil pipeline, an airport, two seaports, and a wider/deeper ship channel. Costs estimated to be $40 billion and take about 15 years to complete. Workers will come from China and Central America. Russia's role will be to provide security for construction crews. We know about excitable locals in and around the Isthmus.
Major funding will come from China's HKND, which received a 100 year concession from Managua.
A special agreement is alleged to have been signed by Russia and Nicaragua allowing Russky warships into local waters for 6 months of the year and to carry out coastal patrols. ( Will the Russky naval vessels include the new French built amphibious ships?) Hmmmm.
Whatever ships were to show up in either the Caribbean or the Pacific Oceans, clouds of drones would be their closest companions throughout the operation(s).
Emil Dabagyan, of the Institute of Latin America at the Russian Acad. of Sciences, says the U.S. will lose control of the area with this new canal option.
So, we have Vlad moving pawns into the U.S. front yard. I guess NATO will have to start spending a few more Euro's on uniforms, boots, and foul weather gear as winter approaches in eastern Europe.
Friday, June 6, 2014
Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl: 5 Years Later
International news has carried the story of American soldier, Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl's return from captivity by the Taliban in Afghanistan. He was their prisoner for 5 years and he was exchanged for 5 Taliban prisoners held in Guantanamo, Cuba, by American military guards. All the 5 Taliban were high ranking leaders captured many years ago. One was accused of leading large Taliban forces against Afghan government forces.
A controversy has arisen over the secret negotiations that lead to his release. Congress was not informed. Should they have been told ahead of time about the deal? Did Pres. Obama exceed his authority?
These questions and others have put the deal in a different light. How was the sergeant captured? Was he alone, or a victim of circumstances beyond his control? What was his mental state prior to capture? Runors abound that he was a disgruntled warrior with a chip on his shoulder. More will be written about this event and more will come out about the actual capture.
His parents in Texas can care less about the controversy. They have their son back and the rest of the world can take a flying........
5 years with the Taliban. It will make for a good story, maybe a movie.
A controversy has arisen over the secret negotiations that lead to his release. Congress was not informed. Should they have been told ahead of time about the deal? Did Pres. Obama exceed his authority?
These questions and others have put the deal in a different light. How was the sergeant captured? Was he alone, or a victim of circumstances beyond his control? What was his mental state prior to capture? Runors abound that he was a disgruntled warrior with a chip on his shoulder. More will be written about this event and more will come out about the actual capture.
His parents in Texas can care less about the controversy. They have their son back and the rest of the world can take a flying........
5 years with the Taliban. It will make for a good story, maybe a movie.
Aleksandr Pushkin: Happy Birthday
The great Russian writer, Aleksandr Pushkin, was born on this date. He was such a popular figure in the nation of Russia as it existed in the early 1800's. He married Natalya Goncharova, said to be the most beautiful woman in Russia, even she was admired by the Czar. However, a persistent suitor was challenged by Pushkin to a duel with an unfortunate result: Pushkin died 2 days later.
An entire nation went into mourning.
What became of his young widow? Pushkin was only 38 when he died, and with him, a bit of the Russian soul.
How many men who landed on Normandy had read or had heard of Pushkin?
An entire nation went into mourning.
What became of his young widow? Pushkin was only 38 when he died, and with him, a bit of the Russian soul.
How many men who landed on Normandy had read or had heard of Pushkin?
Thursday, June 5, 2014
Mr. Baseball: R.I.P. Don Zimmer
One of the oldest active managers in MLB passed away yesterday: Don Zimmer, aged 83. He was involved in MLB for 66 years, almost his entire adult life. He played for the World Champion Brooklyn Dodgers in 1955 and went on to several other teams as a player, including the new York Mets. But it was as a manager that his career is most notable.
He managed the Cubs, the Rangers, the Giants, and especially the new York Yankees under Joe Torre. He collected 4 rings with the Yankees.
He lived with a steel plate in his head after being beaned as a player when he suffered a concussion and fractured skull. A felt hat didn't offer much protection in the old days. Many players noted his expert advice during their careers; he was a wealth of information on all the nuances of the game.
RIP Don Zimmer
He managed the Cubs, the Rangers, the Giants, and especially the new York Yankees under Joe Torre. He collected 4 rings with the Yankees.
He lived with a steel plate in his head after being beaned as a player when he suffered a concussion and fractured skull. A felt hat didn't offer much protection in the old days. Many players noted his expert advice during their careers; he was a wealth of information on all the nuances of the game.
RIP Don Zimmer
Minister in Eastern Europe
How timely! The Minister of Eastern European Affairs has been dispatched on assignment to gather facts about events in Eastern Europe. President Obama was in Poland observing the 25th Anniversary of the Polish vote that lead to the independence of Poland from Soviet domination. This, of course, eventually lead to the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the breakup of the USSR.
Our Minister is also going home to Byelorussia to visit family. It's been a few years since she has been home and she's going to introduce her new American husband. What a surprise for the folks back home.
Given her language and cultural ties, I'm sure she will have many insights into conditions on the ground in that part of Europe. Maybe she can figure out what is going on with Russia's natural gas pipeline(s) and the price for that gas.
We will wait for answers.
Report to follow in a few weeks.
Our Minister is also going home to Byelorussia to visit family. It's been a few years since she has been home and she's going to introduce her new American husband. What a surprise for the folks back home.
Given her language and cultural ties, I'm sure she will have many insights into conditions on the ground in that part of Europe. Maybe she can figure out what is going on with Russia's natural gas pipeline(s) and the price for that gas.
We will wait for answers.
Report to follow in a few weeks.
D-Day Remembered-70 Years Later
A few old surviving Allied veterans will join much younger heads of state tomorrow to commemorate the Allied landing on the beaches of Normandy. President Obama will join with other leaders including Mr. Putin, Mr. Hollande, Angela Merkel, Mr. Cameron(and the Queen?), Matteo Renzi, and maybe the new king of Spain, King Juan Carlos having abdicated this week because of declining health.
Only the youngest participants on the day are still with us. Gone are the generals, the colonels, the admirals, and captains. All we have left are the boots on the ground: the men who did the heavy lifting. In this case the men who waded ashore under the relentless fire of Nazi cannons in concrete bunkers above the beach. It was a long day-The Longest Day as the book was called.
Having walked on Omaha Beach just last October, that experience is easily recalled. The beach is narrow at high tide and flat and broad when low tide as it was on the day we visited. The Channel was calm, unlike in '44, when rough seas made landings extremely difficult and the outcome in doubt.
Long planned under secrecy, and carried out with boldness and daring, the amphibious effort ensured a victory for the Allied forces, including the Soviet Union,or U.S.S. R. as it was known back then when Uncle Joe still lorded over his conquered states. Hitler's former ally seemed shocked when Adolf turned East in 1941. Folks back then thought there was honor among thieves, but, alas, not so much.
The French people recall the days spent under the Nazi boot after the blitzkrieg attack forced France to capitulate in early 1940. After that date, there were 2 countries of France: Vichy and Free French in the south. It was not pretty, before, during, and after the Nazi occupation. In less than a year after the Normandy landing, Germany would surrender, Hitler would be dead, and Europe would begin the long road to reconstruction. That is Western Europe, the east unfortunately fell behind Stalin's Iron Curtain.
And so, read the stories tomorrow, there will be significant news coverage. With all that's happening in Ukraine, the focus will be intense. As the G-7 Summit ends in Brussels, more news will be flowing. What about the G-8? Well, the schoolyard bully, Vlad the Cad, was not invited. He doesn't know how to play well with others in the schoolyard. Like all bullies, he just doesn't get it.
D-Day- We Remember
Only the youngest participants on the day are still with us. Gone are the generals, the colonels, the admirals, and captains. All we have left are the boots on the ground: the men who did the heavy lifting. In this case the men who waded ashore under the relentless fire of Nazi cannons in concrete bunkers above the beach. It was a long day-The Longest Day as the book was called.
Having walked on Omaha Beach just last October, that experience is easily recalled. The beach is narrow at high tide and flat and broad when low tide as it was on the day we visited. The Channel was calm, unlike in '44, when rough seas made landings extremely difficult and the outcome in doubt.
Long planned under secrecy, and carried out with boldness and daring, the amphibious effort ensured a victory for the Allied forces, including the Soviet Union,or U.S.S. R. as it was known back then when Uncle Joe still lorded over his conquered states. Hitler's former ally seemed shocked when Adolf turned East in 1941. Folks back then thought there was honor among thieves, but, alas, not so much.
The French people recall the days spent under the Nazi boot after the blitzkrieg attack forced France to capitulate in early 1940. After that date, there were 2 countries of France: Vichy and Free French in the south. It was not pretty, before, during, and after the Nazi occupation. In less than a year after the Normandy landing, Germany would surrender, Hitler would be dead, and Europe would begin the long road to reconstruction. That is Western Europe, the east unfortunately fell behind Stalin's Iron Curtain.
And so, read the stories tomorrow, there will be significant news coverage. With all that's happening in Ukraine, the focus will be intense. As the G-7 Summit ends in Brussels, more news will be flowing. What about the G-8? Well, the schoolyard bully, Vlad the Cad, was not invited. He doesn't know how to play well with others in the schoolyard. Like all bullies, he just doesn't get it.
D-Day- We Remember
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
Who is Maria Elena Boschi?
An Italian Minister of Internal Affairs. I think there's more here than meets the eye. Investigation is warranted. The Minister of Latin American Affairs may have to take a side trip to Italy this month and conduct an interview. This could be combined with his planned side trip to Poland where he will scan the horizon to the east and try to discern any Russian activity on the border.
A complete report will be prepared by our own minister upon his return.
A complete report will be prepared by our own minister upon his return.
Election Day: early returns
Pundits predicted a light turnout and, by gazing at various polling places, they are correct. Generally speaking, the American voter is somewhat complacent in June, the month of primaries and party face offs. It's also a time when local tax districts attempt to float a bond, or a parcel tax, or increase a pay package for a local pol.
Californians are even more reluctant to vote because the Democratic Party appears to be unbeatable. Everywhere. Some Republican hopefuls could not even qualify for the ballot-not enough signatures of supporters. Now that's embarassing. Maybe there's some hope. Two Republicans: John Donnelly and Neal Kashkari are vying for the Republican nomination. Donnelly appears to shoot from the mouth first, while Karshkari is more moderate and studied in his approach. He could light up a following if California's unemployment rate(8.5%) continues to remain hhigher than most other states.
El Dorado county has little wiggle room over it's budget and has not asked much of voters at election time. More eyes are looking toward November's election.
Californians are even more reluctant to vote because the Democratic Party appears to be unbeatable. Everywhere. Some Republican hopefuls could not even qualify for the ballot-not enough signatures of supporters. Now that's embarassing. Maybe there's some hope. Two Republicans: John Donnelly and Neal Kashkari are vying for the Republican nomination. Donnelly appears to shoot from the mouth first, while Karshkari is more moderate and studied in his approach. He could light up a following if California's unemployment rate(8.5%) continues to remain hhigher than most other states.
El Dorado county has little wiggle room over it's budget and has not asked much of voters at election time. More eyes are looking toward November's election.
Lake Shore: Calm and Serene
The Mayor took the day off, ahead of election day, and walked to Meeks Bay beach. A light breeze was felt, coming out of the east. A school bus full of students had found the beach almost deserted, and made good use of all the empty space. A young family of 3 had their gear right up to water's edge, enjoying a classic Tahoe beach day.
It amazes me to see this expansive space almost empty on a beautiful day. I ask myself, "Where is everybody?" School is still in session, with a week to go. So that sums up most of it. But then, in a state of 35 millions, it seems more would enjoy the scene.
I guess it is just far enough away from population centers to make it a challenge to arrive midweek. Maybe the Chamber of Commerce has to step up the advertising a little.
Old Tahoe Cafe
Rehab is in progress in Homewood on the Old Tahoe Cafe. It seems that Obexers is investing in a complete makeover of the building. Ultimately, it remains to be seen what will go there. It is not a surefire winner in that location, or any location on the West Shore, for that matter.
Gas prices have crossed the $4.50/gal. price and it;s only June 2. The Great Recession is lingering, too, and economists are warning that more speed bumps are ahead for the sluggish recovery. Mortgage interest resets are coming up for many who refinanced and used a line of credit to buy stuff(called HELOCS). A loan of this type could see payments double overnight. Not a good thing, for the borrower(s).
But, Meeks Bay was again, gorgeous. By 3pm, the surface of the lake flattened out, and a few paddle boarders took advantage and crisscrossed the bay, standing or sitting on their boards.
Nice.
The Minister of Far Eastern Culture and Religion took a bold step and plunged head first into the clear water. She remarked that it was very cold. Very cold, indeed. The mayor himself put a toe in and proclaimed the same: cold!
Real summer is still a few weeks off. We can wait.
It amazes me to see this expansive space almost empty on a beautiful day. I ask myself, "Where is everybody?" School is still in session, with a week to go. So that sums up most of it. But then, in a state of 35 millions, it seems more would enjoy the scene.
I guess it is just far enough away from population centers to make it a challenge to arrive midweek. Maybe the Chamber of Commerce has to step up the advertising a little.
Old Tahoe Cafe
Rehab is in progress in Homewood on the Old Tahoe Cafe. It seems that Obexers is investing in a complete makeover of the building. Ultimately, it remains to be seen what will go there. It is not a surefire winner in that location, or any location on the West Shore, for that matter.
Gas prices have crossed the $4.50/gal. price and it;s only June 2. The Great Recession is lingering, too, and economists are warning that more speed bumps are ahead for the sluggish recovery. Mortgage interest resets are coming up for many who refinanced and used a line of credit to buy stuff(called HELOCS). A loan of this type could see payments double overnight. Not a good thing, for the borrower(s).
But, Meeks Bay was again, gorgeous. By 3pm, the surface of the lake flattened out, and a few paddle boarders took advantage and crisscrossed the bay, standing or sitting on their boards.
Nice.
The Minister of Far Eastern Culture and Religion took a bold step and plunged head first into the clear water. She remarked that it was very cold. Very cold, indeed. The mayor himself put a toe in and proclaimed the same: cold!
Real summer is still a few weeks off. We can wait.
Latin American Update
The world is beginning to focus on Latin America: it's time for the World Cup Soccer extravaganza to begin in Brazil. Normally, it's a time of friendly rivalry, intense competition, a swelling of national pride, and not a little wagering on the outcome of every contest.
However, this year, Brazil has faced increased criticism for its games preparations. Many of the venues are only just now available for teams to use. Transportation networks and related systems are still in question in many areas. But the most significant issues revolve around the Brazilian economy.
Just a few years ago, Brazil was booming. President Lula was the darling of many economists and politicians, a rare combination. When he stepped down and was replaced by Dilma Rousseff, things have not gone well. The economy has stalled, inflation has increased(but not like Argentina), and job creation remains stagnant. All these factors have contributed to unrest, especially in the large urban areas surrounding Rio Di Janeiro and Sao Paolo where poor sections of these cities have been the focus of riots and confrontations with police.
Complaints against excessive government spending for the World Cup, along with graft and corruption have already tainted the world event. This could also be a warm up for the Olympic Games of 2016.
The whole world is now watching as the beginning rounds commence in 1 week.
Minister Returns
Our Minister of Latin American Affairs has just returned from a last minute trip to Trinidad. This trip popped up on his radar just after he graduated last week from George Washington. His boss thought he needed some extra travel time, so off he went, back to Trinidad for a quick conference.
London is his next stop- the EU Security Conference for 2014.
The hot topic here will be : (pick one) a) defense spending among NATO member states; b) counter security moves to Russian moves in Ukraine and Crimea, c) requests for military assistance in Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia d) Turkish unrest and Pres. Erdogan's future, e) war in Syria, f) Palestinian statehood and Hamas, f) Libya and future of democracy there, g) Germany and the rest of EU countries.
He will be busy this summer.
However, this year, Brazil has faced increased criticism for its games preparations. Many of the venues are only just now available for teams to use. Transportation networks and related systems are still in question in many areas. But the most significant issues revolve around the Brazilian economy.
Just a few years ago, Brazil was booming. President Lula was the darling of many economists and politicians, a rare combination. When he stepped down and was replaced by Dilma Rousseff, things have not gone well. The economy has stalled, inflation has increased(but not like Argentina), and job creation remains stagnant. All these factors have contributed to unrest, especially in the large urban areas surrounding Rio Di Janeiro and Sao Paolo where poor sections of these cities have been the focus of riots and confrontations with police.
Complaints against excessive government spending for the World Cup, along with graft and corruption have already tainted the world event. This could also be a warm up for the Olympic Games of 2016.
The whole world is now watching as the beginning rounds commence in 1 week.
Minister Returns
Our Minister of Latin American Affairs has just returned from a last minute trip to Trinidad. This trip popped up on his radar just after he graduated last week from George Washington. His boss thought he needed some extra travel time, so off he went, back to Trinidad for a quick conference.
London is his next stop- the EU Security Conference for 2014.
The hot topic here will be : (pick one) a) defense spending among NATO member states; b) counter security moves to Russian moves in Ukraine and Crimea, c) requests for military assistance in Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia d) Turkish unrest and Pres. Erdogan's future, e) war in Syria, f) Palestinian statehood and Hamas, f) Libya and future of democracy there, g) Germany and the rest of EU countries.
He will be busy this summer.
Highway 89; a Shambles
Work crews of all stripes have descended into our neighborhood, posting signs, parking everywhere, and horror of horrors, imposing restrictions on our movements through the 'hood. Traffic flagmen/women have been posted in a variety of locations, stopping and starting the 1 lane operations around the construction sites.
First, there are the forestry dudes. They are hard at it, wielding their vicious chain saws, leveling all types of standing trees, but mostly white firs, the curse of the basin. They are cutting down quite a few dead snags, reducing fire loading to prevent the spread of wild fires. Meeks Bay Fire Dist. has had a hand in these efforts by continuing to provide brush removal in the neighborhoods surrounding Tahoma.
CalTrans has been heavily involved, constructing run off barriers on the shoulder of 89. This imposing concrete curb/gutter is intended to prevent the runoff from carrying contaminants and sand into Lake Tahoe. These efforts will, in turn, keep our lake clean and clear. The heavy equipment in use is impressive, given the actual size of the curbs in place. But, grading is a necessary factor for all the preparations before the concrete pour.
AT&T is also on the scene(right near downtown Tahoma), pulling cables over the tall power poles spanning the highway. Is it cable, at last? More info needed on this question.
Subsurface excavations are ongoing in 2 areas, north and south of Tahoma. This no doubt involves adding new piping for utilities, gas, water, and probably sewer lines. This effort is the big deal, requiring steel plates to cover the trenches prior to placement of the new pipes. Signs indicate this project will necessitate day time closures of various lengths, from 7am-until 6pm, Mon.-Fri, until October(winter onset).
Weekends could get interesting. Especially now that Highway 50, our neighbor to the south, is being widened for many miles in El Dorado county. Will this activity discourage visitors? Of course, everybody is on the internet and can read Caltrans updates.
Pay Attention When Driving, especially when daredevil bike riders drift onto the blacktop.
First, there are the forestry dudes. They are hard at it, wielding their vicious chain saws, leveling all types of standing trees, but mostly white firs, the curse of the basin. They are cutting down quite a few dead snags, reducing fire loading to prevent the spread of wild fires. Meeks Bay Fire Dist. has had a hand in these efforts by continuing to provide brush removal in the neighborhoods surrounding Tahoma.
CalTrans has been heavily involved, constructing run off barriers on the shoulder of 89. This imposing concrete curb/gutter is intended to prevent the runoff from carrying contaminants and sand into Lake Tahoe. These efforts will, in turn, keep our lake clean and clear. The heavy equipment in use is impressive, given the actual size of the curbs in place. But, grading is a necessary factor for all the preparations before the concrete pour.
AT&T is also on the scene(right near downtown Tahoma), pulling cables over the tall power poles spanning the highway. Is it cable, at last? More info needed on this question.
Subsurface excavations are ongoing in 2 areas, north and south of Tahoma. This no doubt involves adding new piping for utilities, gas, water, and probably sewer lines. This effort is the big deal, requiring steel plates to cover the trenches prior to placement of the new pipes. Signs indicate this project will necessitate day time closures of various lengths, from 7am-until 6pm, Mon.-Fri, until October(winter onset).
Weekends could get interesting. Especially now that Highway 50, our neighbor to the south, is being widened for many miles in El Dorado county. Will this activity discourage visitors? Of course, everybody is on the internet and can read Caltrans updates.
Pay Attention When Driving, especially when daredevil bike riders drift onto the blacktop.
Where We Met Reopens
After a 5 month absence, Liz F., owner operator of everybody's favorite gelato bar and espresso palace, has returned to open for business. Not quite in time for Memorial Day(it was early this year), but, timely, none the less.
She featured salty caramel gelato as one of her first summer season flavors. Cookies and cream also had its fans, including this one.
Locals look forward to a fine summer with mornings beginning at our own Tahoma espresso bar.
Welcome back, Liz!
Mary Slezak Park
The park looked good if not quiet over the weekend passed. No indication of custom made seat signage. I guess it's too much to ask the park management to give a realistic date of installation. Oh, well, maybe by August annual meeting time.
She featured salty caramel gelato as one of her first summer season flavors. Cookies and cream also had its fans, including this one.
Locals look forward to a fine summer with mornings beginning at our own Tahoma espresso bar.
Welcome back, Liz!
Mary Slezak Park
The park looked good if not quiet over the weekend passed. No indication of custom made seat signage. I guess it's too much to ask the park management to give a realistic date of installation. Oh, well, maybe by August annual meeting time.
Norfolk Hotel: the update
Finally, it appears that the title of ownership of the property(s) of the old Norfolk Hotel has been completed. Work has begun after all these years of bankruptcy, partnership issues, lender disagreements, and plain old stupidity. The clean up has been diligent: trash has been removed and an orderly appearance has taken the place of a trashed and disheveled look.
Several of the cottages have been cleaned up: doors secured, windows boarded over, locks installed, and old mattresses removed to the land fill in T.C. Apparently, the new owners are well known in the area, and while their ultimate plans for the property are unknown at this time, it seems they are willing to make a significant investment in the future of the site. Rumor has it that the owners also own two recently sold motels in Tahoma. And, it seems they are also interested in the lakefront property "Cedars Lodge" across Highway 89. Wouldn't be the first time a well heeled buyer came in and took over.
Mr. Tahoma, Mr. Mariani, is still going strong and is not vulnerable to any offers on the plaza.
Enjoy the new look on Pine St. and smile as work progresses. The roof is off and the ice and water shield underlayment is in place. The log cabin has been pressure washed and it looks good.
Be Happy.
Several of the cottages have been cleaned up: doors secured, windows boarded over, locks installed, and old mattresses removed to the land fill in T.C. Apparently, the new owners are well known in the area, and while their ultimate plans for the property are unknown at this time, it seems they are willing to make a significant investment in the future of the site. Rumor has it that the owners also own two recently sold motels in Tahoma. And, it seems they are also interested in the lakefront property "Cedars Lodge" across Highway 89. Wouldn't be the first time a well heeled buyer came in and took over.
Mr. Tahoma, Mr. Mariani, is still going strong and is not vulnerable to any offers on the plaza.
Enjoy the new look on Pine St. and smile as work progresses. The roof is off and the ice and water shield underlayment is in place. The log cabin has been pressure washed and it looks good.
Be Happy.
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