Four Russyan Olympic athletes were stripped of medals they were awarded at the Games in Sochi, Crimea, Ukraine in 2014. All were accused of "doping" or using performance enhancing drugs. This action continues the efforts of Olympic Committee members to remedy the illegal action of the Russyan hosts that conspired to defraud all athletes during the Games by altering blood samples in the lab on site. The director of the lab, now living in the USA, admitted that the process under his guidance used a scheme that overcame committee efforts to make the alteration of samples impossible. By breaking through security measures, the Russyan were able to replace the on site samples with fake samples provided by outsiders.
Sadly, the athletes who have now been elevated to medal positions will never have their "moment in the sun" thanks to the duplicity of the Russyan hosts.
Oh, well, they are Russyan.
Wednesday, November 29, 2017
Louisiana Gas Makes It to Poland
Who built the pipeline from Houma, LA to Gdansk? It seems like an impossible feat. But wait. Did it really happen? Well, not exactly. Poland has been searching for an alternative to Russyan energy suppliers. As a significant consumer of all Russyan energy market components, Poles have felt that they were under political pressure to pay more than markets dictated, given their dependency. So, Poles looked for alternatives, realistic and dependable. Where else than the good old U.S. of A? America has become a net exporter of energy. After years of being an importer dependent on the Middle East, fracking has turned the tables on imports.
During the Obama administration, the rules were changed to allow export of oil and gas. Energy companies were quick to jump in, despite possibilities of markets being upended by the entry of new products on the world stage. However, companies saw a need to offer products to compete with those sources that had a lock on certain energy-dependent countries. Poland was one of the first to tap this new source. The gas came not via a pipeline, per say, but a maritime pipeline in the form of LNG ships, delivering natural gas in the form of liquid petroleum gas. Ahh, thank you to our technicians and oil industry experts who put all this together. Now Russya will be more respectful of Polish consumers and Polish utility companies that can now buy product at reasonable market prices without the heavy-handedness of their eastern neighbors(Kremlin).
Too bad for you, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, 17 years the dictator of the largest country in the world.
Have a nice day.
During the Obama administration, the rules were changed to allow export of oil and gas. Energy companies were quick to jump in, despite possibilities of markets being upended by the entry of new products on the world stage. However, companies saw a need to offer products to compete with those sources that had a lock on certain energy-dependent countries. Poland was one of the first to tap this new source. The gas came not via a pipeline, per say, but a maritime pipeline in the form of LNG ships, delivering natural gas in the form of liquid petroleum gas. Ahh, thank you to our technicians and oil industry experts who put all this together. Now Russya will be more respectful of Polish consumers and Polish utility companies that can now buy product at reasonable market prices without the heavy-handedness of their eastern neighbors(Kremlin).
Too bad for you, Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, 17 years the dictator of the largest country in the world.
Have a nice day.
Tuesday, November 28, 2017
Chinese Hackers Indicted by US
Hmmm. Here we go again. Seems that three Chinese hackers got into the email account of one of Moody's chief economists. Mark Zandi, a longtime Moodys employee/economists had his emails diverted by the hackers to shone light on economic attitudes to some banking rules and regs. More will be uncovered as the investigation goes forward.
Wells Fargo: Financial Train Wreck
Wells fargo got caught,, again, with their pants down. It seems the ForEx division was cowboying along, breaking agreements and fostering a climate of excess in their pricing of transactions for clients. They were overcharging in the fee structure. The US Attorney General's Office is opening a broad investigation, as is the Office of Comptroller of Currency and Treasury Dept. Wells says many of those involved have been fired. No names were mentioned. It seems also that executive bonuses were tied to goals and target quotas: never a good deal for clients.
I believe that big banks are TOO BIG TO OPERATE HONESTLY.
Time will tell if regulators learn anything this time around.
I believe that big banks are TOO BIG TO OPERATE HONESTLY.
Time will tell if regulators learn anything this time around.
Monday, November 27, 2017
Matthew Turner: Update
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| rigger on foremast platform |
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| electric motor w/ drive shaft |
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| yardarm fittings @work |
The steel gang has been hard at work, making the numerous fittings needed to hold everything above decks in place. All the running rigging hardware has had to be made because of the unique character of the ship and the desire to be historically accurate as much as possible, Many components could have been purchased from mainstream dealers, but these modern elements would look out of place. Many of the pieces were made with the help of many different workers- some remote(Van Bebbers), some close by(the Mayor), and a few on sight at the tent. With a metal shop in one of the on site containers, welding, brazing, shaping, and painting can be done easily. Even some machining can be done under the tent. Braiding cable is also done here near the welding shop where volunteers have rigged a scaffolding to hold the cable horizontally while it is being covered with protective elements.
When the fore top is in place, the ship will definitely have the look that has taken the crew almost 4 full years to accomplish. Big Christmas Gala at the Bay Model of Army Corps of Engineer's building, Friday, Dec. 1.
High Pressure Settles Over Tahoe
The Thanksgiving Holiday has come and gone. The memories linger of tranquil weather throughout the Sierra, especially at the Lake.
Tahoma enjoyed the balmy weather with temperatures reaching 60. Reno expected to hit 70, which would be an all time high for the date. The Mayor was up on a ladder for a spell, fixing a gutter. Now's the time, with snow definitely just around the corner. The Truckee River is running high as the dam is releasing quite a bit of water in anticipation of a "normal" or "average" winter's snowfall. We'll see soon enough.
Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows has opened, with early season conditions. This means that only the higher elevations will have open runs. The West Shore Pizza restaurant was busy all week- a good sign that vacationers were in a festive mood, ready to hit the slopes. We can expect more of the same come December.
Have you checked your propane tank? What per cent is it reading? Enough for a good holiday season? Now's the time to get what you need while the weather is still good enough for a delivery.
CalTrans crews are still around, getting ready to stop construction and to prepare for snow removal efforts.
How's your firewood supply? OK? Stack it tightly, out of the weather, easily accessible.
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| Mirror Surface Reflects Nevada Side: Tuesday Afternoon-11/21/17 |
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| Sunrise: 11/22/17-Fogbank Obscures Lake surface |
Squaw Valley/Alpine Meadows has opened, with early season conditions. This means that only the higher elevations will have open runs. The West Shore Pizza restaurant was busy all week- a good sign that vacationers were in a festive mood, ready to hit the slopes. We can expect more of the same come December.
Have you checked your propane tank? What per cent is it reading? Enough for a good holiday season? Now's the time to get what you need while the weather is still good enough for a delivery.
CalTrans crews are still around, getting ready to stop construction and to prepare for snow removal efforts.
How's your firewood supply? OK? Stack it tightly, out of the weather, easily accessible.
Friday, November 24, 2017
Argentines Grieve Over Loss of Crew in Submarine
Searchers have revealed evidence of an explosion in the vicinity of the course of the missing Navy submarine. With a crew of 44, the boat vanished on a routine patrol off the West Coast of Argentina. Families have become resigned to the fact that nothing has been heard in over a week. The military has had very little information to provide families. The local units have been added to by international units with satellite coverage to aid the search.
Our thoughts are with the families.
Our thoughts are with the families.
Maduro Arrests Americans
Nicolas Maduro has arrested some CITGO employees. The charges look like the administration is attempting to stem the tide of corporate disaffection. He has announced that these arrests will stop corruption at the state oil company which counts CITGO as one of its divisions. Well, now, isn't that interesting. The American subsidiary will soon be taken over by international creditors who hold Venezuelan government bonds(worthless). CITGO assets are the few abroad that can be seized by these creditors as they exist outside the grasp of Maduro. Mr. Maduro recently appointed a relative of former dictator Chavez, Hugo to manage CITGO. This does not bode well for the oil industry of Venezuela. Soon, not much will be left in Venezuela except Cuban intelligence agents, people too sick to escape, and a disillusioned military.
Welcome to Latin America.
Welcome to Latin America.
Putin Meets With Assad
So, apparently Vladimir Putin is tiring of propping up the Butcher of Syria, Bashar al-Assad. Let's talk. I want out. We have the Winter Olympics in 3 months and I have to be there. I'm tired of giving you all this money and support without much to show for it. Either you stop messing around with the rebels or you're on your own and you know what that means: Trump will take over with the C.I.A. coming to take you out. What's your plan, Bashar?
The meeting is being held in Sochi, somewhere in Crimea. You remember Sochi? They held an Olympics there 4 years ago, showcasing Russyan capabilities(such as they were). Vladimir was show casing Vladimir as he prepared to invade Ukraine after the premier he supported fled to Moscow and the protection offered by the Kremlin.
Not much has changed in Ukraine. More assassinations, more artillery bombardments, more Russyan casualties. Business as usual for Russyans. Will something come of the political discussions in Sochi? Don't count on it. Remember you are dealing with an Assad, notorious liars, dictators, murderers, and users of poison gas on civilians.
The meeting is being held in Sochi, somewhere in Crimea. You remember Sochi? They held an Olympics there 4 years ago, showcasing Russyan capabilities(such as they were). Vladimir was show casing Vladimir as he prepared to invade Ukraine after the premier he supported fled to Moscow and the protection offered by the Kremlin.
Not much has changed in Ukraine. More assassinations, more artillery bombardments, more Russyan casualties. Business as usual for Russyans. Will something come of the political discussions in Sochi? Don't count on it. Remember you are dealing with an Assad, notorious liars, dictators, murderers, and users of poison gas on civilians.
Sunday, November 19, 2017
Ruthenium Over Europe: From Where
Ruthenium is an isotope that exists in a variety of environments. Most of the assiciated environments are found in nuclear reactor sites that produce power. Approximately 42 scientific monitoring stations across Europe reported that an unusual amount of this isotope was found recently in the atmosphere. Fortunately, this isotope has a half-life that means it exists only briefly before becoming non-radioactive.
So, where did this particle come from? Where was its source of origin? Hmmm. One of the major indicators of the Chernobyl Reactor melt down of the '80's was a discovery of radio active isotopes in Europe's atmosphere. It was only after this discovery did Russya own up to the disaster on its soil. It is doubtful that this is being repeated. Monitoring is vastly improved. But, it's worth remembering that these particles were sourced in a remote location and found their way into the atmosphere far from its source.
We might have to set up a monitoring station in Tahoma.
Story reported on Nov. 19, 2017 by NPR.
So, where did this particle come from? Where was its source of origin? Hmmm. One of the major indicators of the Chernobyl Reactor melt down of the '80's was a discovery of radio active isotopes in Europe's atmosphere. It was only after this discovery did Russya own up to the disaster on its soil. It is doubtful that this is being repeated. Monitoring is vastly improved. But, it's worth remembering that these particles were sourced in a remote location and found their way into the atmosphere far from its source.
We might have to set up a monitoring station in Tahoma.
Story reported on Nov. 19, 2017 by NPR.
Monday, November 13, 2017
RT Today, RT Tomorrow a New Russyan Foreign Agent
After months of foot dragging around the various "intelligence" agencies inside the Beltway and outside the Beltway, the pwers that be finally told the Kremlin it's time to register the media outlet that is Kremlin sponsored to register as a foreign agent. In other words, to register as a tool of the Russyan state that is used for information gathering and other subversive activities. The response is typically Russyan: "What? How dare you accuse us of information gathering?" . So, another step forward in the ongoing attempt by the post-Soviet era Russyan state to appear normal. Good luck.
It has become a laughable topic among media companies that are familiar with the half-baked disinformation put out by the programming on Russyan Today, aka RT. The program/show appears with all the trappings of a 'normal' news organization: handsome presenters, colorful graphics, multiple talking heads, and even a few women to add some cred. But the ties to the FSB are too obvious to overlook.
Enough, already. Who needs more Russyan drivel in their day? Nobody. Not even the "Russyans" in the Donbass of Ukraine, those lost souls who turned up one day in eastern Ukraine claiming to be nothing but long lost Russyans. Ha.
Russyan responses go like this: "Well, if you do this, we'll go after CNN, MSNBC, Radio Free Whatever, and Voice of America, and Disney, and, and, and maybe Armed Forces Radio, or MTV, of Nickolodeon, or Oscars, or Weather Channel. You just wait, you Americkansky, you.
So, things are normal with our Russyan "friends". Even as President Trump says that Valdimir Vladimirovich Putin assures us that he had nothing to do wit election meddling, despite what James Comey said. And Robert Mueller, and Michael Flynn, and Michael Moore, and Howdy Dowdy.
Have a nice day.
It has become a laughable topic among media companies that are familiar with the half-baked disinformation put out by the programming on Russyan Today, aka RT. The program/show appears with all the trappings of a 'normal' news organization: handsome presenters, colorful graphics, multiple talking heads, and even a few women to add some cred. But the ties to the FSB are too obvious to overlook.
Enough, already. Who needs more Russyan drivel in their day? Nobody. Not even the "Russyans" in the Donbass of Ukraine, those lost souls who turned up one day in eastern Ukraine claiming to be nothing but long lost Russyans. Ha.
Russyan responses go like this: "Well, if you do this, we'll go after CNN, MSNBC, Radio Free Whatever, and Voice of America, and Disney, and, and, and maybe Armed Forces Radio, or MTV, of Nickolodeon, or Oscars, or Weather Channel. You just wait, you Americkansky, you.
So, things are normal with our Russyan "friends". Even as President Trump says that Valdimir Vladimirovich Putin assures us that he had nothing to do wit election meddling, despite what James Comey said. And Robert Mueller, and Michael Flynn, and Michael Moore, and Howdy Dowdy.
Have a nice day.
Sunday, November 12, 2017
Football: We Have a Problem
The NFL is in full swing. College football is in full swing- Auburn defeated Georgia(#1) yesterday, and Notre Dame lost). The injury list among players gets longer by the week. Retired players are resurrected from their Barca-loungers to don the pads and hit the field. The ever presence of QB Tom Brady does not give much reassurance to a crippled league, side-swiped by players protesting, players getting arrested for numerous felonies, and coaches unable to articulate the causes of their team's failures to execute effectively at game time.
And then, this happened. With startling photographs of x-rays, of pathologists in the lab at work, and a detailed description of that work, a reporter announced the findings of the effort to the public on Friday, November 10th. Millions of us. The New York Times did athletes, especially football players(not soccer players) a great service. The journalist provided evidence that can no longer be kicked under the rug by the NFL and the team owners, the Great Deniers of the 21st Century. The fact is: football is killing young players.
Throughout most of the article, the story unfolds: suicide victim is brought to coroner for autopsy; the body is dissected; the brain is removed from the skull; the brain is examined; the brain tissue is placed under the microscope and viewed at that level; the evidence is found: CTE.
Dr. Ann McKee, a neuropathologist, presented her findings at the CTE Conference for Neuro-pathology at Boston University. A Power Point presentation identified the key points in her findings. She remarked that this particular brain will be studied for many years as a textbook example of CTE found in a 27 year old man who committed suicide while serving a prison sentence in Massachusetts for murder. This was the brain of Aaron Hernandez.
Today is Sunday. If you watch any games today, think of Aaron Hernandez and his brain.
And then, this happened. With startling photographs of x-rays, of pathologists in the lab at work, and a detailed description of that work, a reporter announced the findings of the effort to the public on Friday, November 10th. Millions of us. The New York Times did athletes, especially football players(not soccer players) a great service. The journalist provided evidence that can no longer be kicked under the rug by the NFL and the team owners, the Great Deniers of the 21st Century. The fact is: football is killing young players.
Throughout most of the article, the story unfolds: suicide victim is brought to coroner for autopsy; the body is dissected; the brain is removed from the skull; the brain is examined; the brain tissue is placed under the microscope and viewed at that level; the evidence is found: CTE.
Dr. Ann McKee, a neuropathologist, presented her findings at the CTE Conference for Neuro-pathology at Boston University. A Power Point presentation identified the key points in her findings. She remarked that this particular brain will be studied for many years as a textbook example of CTE found in a 27 year old man who committed suicide while serving a prison sentence in Massachusetts for murder. This was the brain of Aaron Hernandez.
Today is Sunday. If you watch any games today, think of Aaron Hernandez and his brain.
Saturday, November 11, 2017
Trump Goes to Vietnam
This is Mr. Trump's first visit to Vietnam. Unlike 2,500,000 other Americans, Mr. Trump was able to avoid military service during his eligible years. After years of student deferments, he was able to secure a medical deferment because of "bone spurs" on his foot. Bone spurs. Bone spurs? He is attending a conference among Asian trading partners to discuss trade deals and dealing among attendees.
Maybe Mr. Trump will visit "China Beach", the former American rest center the fictional setting of a successful TV series of the '80's. Nearby, is the port city of DaNang, where American ships anchored during the war, supplying the war material needed by the 500,000 soldiers, sailors, and Marines who fought so hard to thwart Communist efforts in S.E. Asia. Maybe he'll note the beauty of the Marble Mountain monoliths that leap skyward just a few kilometers south of the harbor which held Marine observation posts on its crest, and Communist medical facilities underneath in the interior spaces.
I also doubt he'll visit remnants of the former US Tactical bomber base, now the largest air facility on the central coast. Or the ruins of the former German hospital near An Hoa where the Communist guerillas murdered the entire staff early in the war because they treated anyone brought to the facility.
Maybe the visit will make him so uncomfortable he'll leave early; perhaps because he feels remorse for his early efforts to avoid serving with his fellow countrymen.
And today is Veterans Day in the United States. It is a day we recall the losses from all wars in which Americans fought and died.
Maybe Mr. Trump will visit "China Beach", the former American rest center the fictional setting of a successful TV series of the '80's. Nearby, is the port city of DaNang, where American ships anchored during the war, supplying the war material needed by the 500,000 soldiers, sailors, and Marines who fought so hard to thwart Communist efforts in S.E. Asia. Maybe he'll note the beauty of the Marble Mountain monoliths that leap skyward just a few kilometers south of the harbor which held Marine observation posts on its crest, and Communist medical facilities underneath in the interior spaces.
I also doubt he'll visit remnants of the former US Tactical bomber base, now the largest air facility on the central coast. Or the ruins of the former German hospital near An Hoa where the Communist guerillas murdered the entire staff early in the war because they treated anyone brought to the facility.
Maybe the visit will make him so uncomfortable he'll leave early; perhaps because he feels remorse for his early efforts to avoid serving with his fellow countrymen.
And today is Veterans Day in the United States. It is a day we recall the losses from all wars in which Americans fought and died.
Remembering the Sochi Winter Olympics of 2014
Almost 4 years ago, the world was treated to an Olympics games hosted by our Russyan friends in Sochi, a city in Ukraine. The man who wroye the checks was on high display: Mr. Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, president of Russya. With his gremlin smile(no teeth), he presided over the Games like a regent, enjoying a winter's interlude. What wasn't on display were the behind the scenes activities of the Russyan doctors who were actively subverting the dope/drug screening efforts by the Olympic authorities. The results predictable: numerous if not all Russyan athletes were dirty, ie. juiced with the latest undiscovered chemical PED's(performance enhancing drugs).
So, it was no surprise when W.A.D.A. announced a decision on Thursday that identified two Russyan medal winners who failed their drug tests. They were also banned from future Olympic Games participation, and the Committee asked Russya for the return of the ill gotten awards. Who were these athletes?
There were four: Alexei Petukhov; Evgeniya Shapovalova; Yuliia Ivanova; and Maksim Vylegzhanin. Vylegzhanin won 3 Silver Medals at the Games. Two more Russyan athletes were also singled out for violations and sanctions: Evgeniy Belov and Alexander Legkov, who won gold and silver medals in Sochi.
Mr. Putin's remark: "It's another American conspiracy." Despite the fact that the announcements came from Sweden and Spain's committee members, Mr. Putin went on to say that this vast conspiracy is run by US Media companies that have the largest financial stake in games coverage. In addition to these allegations, he continued his ranting by calling US efforts to tie Russyan hackers to the 2016 US presidential elections a threat to Russya. He also mentioned that these US efforts were meant to affect the upcoming Russyan elections next year. With Russyans, it's all about conspiracies.
The root of all this comes from revelations by Russyan doctor Grigory Rodchenkov, who now lives in the United States. He revealed the methods his team used to compromise the Olympic drug=testing system used at Sochi. With the help of the Russyan Federal Security Service, they tampered with urine samples provided to officials during and after the games. Upon further investigation, a vast conspiracy was unearthed that went back to 2011 through 2015.
Sanctions against Russya will be announced soon, and these sanctions will definitely affect participants or hopeful participants in the 2018 games in South Korea. Standby.
So, it was no surprise when W.A.D.A. announced a decision on Thursday that identified two Russyan medal winners who failed their drug tests. They were also banned from future Olympic Games participation, and the Committee asked Russya for the return of the ill gotten awards. Who were these athletes?
There were four: Alexei Petukhov; Evgeniya Shapovalova; Yuliia Ivanova; and Maksim Vylegzhanin. Vylegzhanin won 3 Silver Medals at the Games. Two more Russyan athletes were also singled out for violations and sanctions: Evgeniy Belov and Alexander Legkov, who won gold and silver medals in Sochi.
Mr. Putin's remark: "It's another American conspiracy." Despite the fact that the announcements came from Sweden and Spain's committee members, Mr. Putin went on to say that this vast conspiracy is run by US Media companies that have the largest financial stake in games coverage. In addition to these allegations, he continued his ranting by calling US efforts to tie Russyan hackers to the 2016 US presidential elections a threat to Russya. He also mentioned that these US efforts were meant to affect the upcoming Russyan elections next year. With Russyans, it's all about conspiracies.
The root of all this comes from revelations by Russyan doctor Grigory Rodchenkov, who now lives in the United States. He revealed the methods his team used to compromise the Olympic drug=testing system used at Sochi. With the help of the Russyan Federal Security Service, they tampered with urine samples provided to officials during and after the games. Upon further investigation, a vast conspiracy was unearthed that went back to 2011 through 2015.
Sanctions against Russya will be announced soon, and these sanctions will definitely affect participants or hopeful participants in the 2018 games in South Korea. Standby.
Thursday, November 9, 2017
The Fire: Sonoma County
The Mayor investigated the scene of Sonoma County's firestorm from last month. It has been about 30 days since sections of the city of Santa Rosa were ravaged by a wind-driven firestorm that destroyed almost 9,500 structures of all types in the middle of the night and on into the next week.
Over 40 people were killed, many unable to leave in time to avoid the flames. It was California's worst death toll in a wildland fire.
In the foto, one can see free standing chimneys and other evidence of the fire. As we rolled through this neighborhood, it became clear that wind driven fire spare very little of the landscape in its path. As we drove south on the Old Redwood Highway, we arrived in the FountainGrove area. It was here that both commercial and residential structures were lost in minutes. The steel i-beams of the hotel were all that was left after the fire rolled over the structure.
Nearby vineyards were burned, leaving charred vines as the only evidence of fire. Cardinal Newman High School showed some damage at the street, but the majority of classrooms were destroyed in the east side of the campus. It was just north of this intersection where the fire jumped Highway 101 and crossed into Coffey Park where hundreds of homes were burned in less than 2 hours. The End of the Trail Trailer park was also ruined as the onslaught moved west before being stopped on Cleveland. Ave.
Signs in front of most of the lots here in foto indicated that EPA crews had verified that these lots were free of toxic chemicals and other environmental hazards. Now insurance companies can go in and assess damages and reimburse clients who will have to navigate building depts. and their minions. It will take years of work to restore these sites to something resembling what was lost.
Over 40 people were killed, many unable to leave in time to avoid the flames. It was California's worst death toll in a wildland fire.
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| Larkfield Area near Old redwood Highway |
Nearby vineyards were burned, leaving charred vines as the only evidence of fire. Cardinal Newman High School showed some damage at the street, but the majority of classrooms were destroyed in the east side of the campus. It was just north of this intersection where the fire jumped Highway 101 and crossed into Coffey Park where hundreds of homes were burned in less than 2 hours. The End of the Trail Trailer park was also ruined as the onslaught moved west before being stopped on Cleveland. Ave.
Signs in front of most of the lots here in foto indicated that EPA crews had verified that these lots were free of toxic chemicals and other environmental hazards. Now insurance companies can go in and assess damages and reimburse clients who will have to navigate building depts. and their minions. It will take years of work to restore these sites to something resembling what was lost.
Minister Does Mexico
Our Minister of Latin American Affairs zipped off to Monterrey, Mexico last weekend for a conference. The focus of the effort was the trade agreement known as NAFTA. This agreement has been in effect for almost 25 years and has matured into a viable institution that has many benefits, although many are not obvious. Since Mr. Trump has taken control of the White House, he has openly criticized the pact and has sent various announcements that this pact is not to his liking and will be altered or eliminated. This position has sent shock waves across our northern border and our southern border where businesses have bloomed as a result of the trade agreement.
Pundits from all over have turned to research that has accumulated over the years on the economic effects of this open border bond among the parties involved(3). A closer look affords a glance at how the pact was sold to Congress and how the results compare to the provisions. The actual results are mixed, with both winners and losers. Perhaps the biggest winners are corporations who moved factories south. Winners are Mexicans who found jobs closer to home. However, these jobs often pay far less than they did in the US. Is this a good thing? Depends, of course, on whether you are a worker or a corporation/stockholder.
Meanwhile, our Minister will make his report soon. He expressed his opinions privately, stating that his efforts were rewarded with timely information that can benefit Tahoma.
Pundits from all over have turned to research that has accumulated over the years on the economic effects of this open border bond among the parties involved(3). A closer look affords a glance at how the pact was sold to Congress and how the results compare to the provisions. The actual results are mixed, with both winners and losers. Perhaps the biggest winners are corporations who moved factories south. Winners are Mexicans who found jobs closer to home. However, these jobs often pay far less than they did in the US. Is this a good thing? Depends, of course, on whether you are a worker or a corporation/stockholder.
Meanwhile, our Minister will make his report soon. He expressed his opinions privately, stating that his efforts were rewarded with timely information that can benefit Tahoma.
Tuesday, November 7, 2017
49ers: 0-9
There doesn't appear to be any saving grace on the Bay Area's former heroes. This is the worse record ever for the team. Starting in 1946, the team never had such a start. Of course, back in those days, the teams only played 8 regular season games. Now, it's 16. Hmmmm. Lots of injuries, confusion about schedules, and social media problems for team members. Not a formula for success.
The move to Santa Clara has brought its problems. Contract disputes have marred the relationship with host city, Santa Clara. The location itself is a cause of many of the issues: too much noise, too much traffic, too few fans, etc, etc.
Maybe next year, maybe not. There are lessons here for professional teams. But will owners learn anything? They seem to be a hardheaded lot with too much money. Perhaps it's time to remove the special license given the owners by Congress. Read-M-O-N-O-P-O-L-Y. Since it's a billion dollar industry, maybe they need more oversight. We'll see, but don't expect Congress to jump in soon-too busy with the White House.
The move to Santa Clara has brought its problems. Contract disputes have marred the relationship with host city, Santa Clara. The location itself is a cause of many of the issues: too much noise, too much traffic, too few fans, etc, etc.
Maybe next year, maybe not. There are lessons here for professional teams. But will owners learn anything? They seem to be a hardheaded lot with too much money. Perhaps it's time to remove the special license given the owners by Congress. Read-M-O-N-O-P-O-L-Y. Since it's a billion dollar industry, maybe they need more oversight. We'll see, but don't expect Congress to jump in soon-too busy with the White House.
Election Tuesday
A few elections will take place around the country today. A few new governors will be elected : 1 in Virginia and 1 in New Jersey. Both will be carefully watched for indications of what's to come in 2018. Namely, will the Congressional mix be altered or will Republicans maintain their hold on a two-house majority. I would venture that the Dems, despite their lack of leadership and unseemly behaviors in the 2016 elections, will gain a significant number to control at least the Senate, if not the House.
New Jersey Governor Chris Christie will put his tail between his legs and slink off to oblivion after his fall from grace related to the Bridgegate scandal that caused a furor in new jersey and new York when his minions effectively shut down a highway bridge that leads to Manhattan across the Hudson River. Not too smart.
New Jersey Governor Chris Christie will put his tail between his legs and slink off to oblivion after his fall from grace related to the Bridgegate scandal that caused a furor in new jersey and new York when his minions effectively shut down a highway bridge that leads to Manhattan across the Hudson River. Not too smart.
Tahoma Weather
As we roll into the "Tween Season", we look at the forecasts with daily interest. Snow or no? is the question. Will we have skiing over Thanksgiving or do we have to wait? These pertinent questions are a constant at this time of year. Daily temps dip into the 30's at night and rise during the day to maybe 40 degrees. We will watch for 'black ice' as rain falls then freezes at night and waits for the unwary driver who ventures out to work in the predawn darkness. Hmmmm. Careful, don't be complacent when behind the wheel. Know the road, anticipate locations of hazards, pay attention.
Be safe.
Be safe.
Trump Does Asia
President Trump, aka "The Donald", is traveling abroad this week on an extended trip to Asia. He will visit Japan, where he's already played a round of golf with Prime Minister Abe. Then,, it's on to Korea where he will demonstrate US resolve in the face of threats in the region from North Korea. From there he goes to China where he will meet with Premier Xi who just had his term extended another 5 years by the Central Committee. They will discuss North Korea and international trade, especially in light of the failure to join the TransPacific Partnership agreement.
After that, he will go to Vietnam for a conference that will include representatives of all east Asian countries, including Russya and its Vladimir Putin, Europe's bad boy disrupter. What will all these talks bring home to Washington? Nobody is will to speculate on the results.
In Danang, Vietnam, where the meetings will take place, a clean up is in progress after two typhoons hit the coastal area in the last few weeks. Like our own hurricane season, East Asia braces for its version of a season in September and October. It's a recurring feature of climate in the region. Some scientists call this period the winter monsoon season, as opposed to its more famous brethren, the Summer Monsoon which slams the Indian Subcontinent regularly in the northern summer.
After that, he will go to Vietnam for a conference that will include representatives of all east Asian countries, including Russya and its Vladimir Putin, Europe's bad boy disrupter. What will all these talks bring home to Washington? Nobody is will to speculate on the results.
In Danang, Vietnam, where the meetings will take place, a clean up is in progress after two typhoons hit the coastal area in the last few weeks. Like our own hurricane season, East Asia braces for its version of a season in September and October. It's a recurring feature of climate in the region. Some scientists call this period the winter monsoon season, as opposed to its more famous brethren, the Summer Monsoon which slams the Indian Subcontinent regularly in the northern summer.
Saudi King Stirs Up the Troops
The King of the Saudis created quite a stir among his people. He arrested or detained a significant number of the Royal family. Many of those were accused of financial improprieties or outright criminal acts. It seems that the long line of "princes" has gotten out of control. New King Salmanhas decided it's time to rein in the family and he used his supreme power as king to make it happen.
The resulting furor has caused turmoil in world financial markets related to the price of oil and the value of Aramco, the national oil company of the Saudis.
In an attempt to diversify its investments, the Saudi royal family(King Salman) has decided that the company should be taken public. An IPO is imminent. The price of oil per barrel has gone up to a two year high as a result. The funds generated by the IPO will be used for investments at home-infrastructure, education, and job creation. The population is tired of business as usual and is demanding more be done to help average citizens attain a modern society.
At the same time, the Saudi government has called a recent attack from Yemen(a missile that was said to have been destroyed) an act of war by Iran, the country which supports Houthi rebels in Yemen's civil war. Iran denies any collaboration with the act.
Stand by for more fireworks on the Peninsula.
The resulting furor has caused turmoil in world financial markets related to the price of oil and the value of Aramco, the national oil company of the Saudis.
In an attempt to diversify its investments, the Saudi royal family(King Salman) has decided that the company should be taken public. An IPO is imminent. The price of oil per barrel has gone up to a two year high as a result. The funds generated by the IPO will be used for investments at home-infrastructure, education, and job creation. The population is tired of business as usual and is demanding more be done to help average citizens attain a modern society.
At the same time, the Saudi government has called a recent attack from Yemen(a missile that was said to have been destroyed) an act of war by Iran, the country which supports Houthi rebels in Yemen's civil war. Iran denies any collaboration with the act.
Stand by for more fireworks on the Peninsula.
Monday, November 6, 2017
Venezuela: End of the Line
So, the Maduro government has run out of money and there's no more coming its way. The government announced that it will not make its upcoming bond payments. With inflation projected to run at 1000%, the future of the country looks grim, indeed. The policies that Maduro put in place have bankrupted the country, forced millions to cash in what little they had to ward off starvation. Crossing the border to find food is the new way of life for Venezuelans. It is sad for those citizens who have no power, no hope, and no future. The incompetence at the top levels of government is astounding, but very real. As they desperately cling to power, they increasingly depend on fantasy to get through the day. As we say in America, "Hope is not a strategy". NObody has told Nicolas Maduro, the sad excuse of a leader. The party in power owns him, and they are stuck with him.
Tis a sad day for all of Venezuela and its people.
Where is the O.A.S.?
Tis a sad day for all of Venezuela and its people.
Where is the O.A.S.?
Friday, November 3, 2017
Carles Puigdemont Flees Catalonia
The regional president of Catalonia, the rebel politician, has fled Barcelona for another town. he's in Brussels, Belgium, and not exactly in hiding. But he won't return on his own, knowing that a cold jail cell awaits him. 8 of his co-conspirators are in jail w/o bail. Eight of these rebels will soon answer to a court of law. Mr. Puigdemont says he won't seek asylum. Ha, ha , ha. Watch this promise fade as the jail cell idea sinks in. He'll be screaming for asylum in no time.
Now the chickens have come home to roost. All the bluster and political posturing will now bear fruit of another sort. Defy federal law? There are consequences, and they come with the force of the constitution.
The EU wants to be a partner of Madrid, not a partner of a breakaway region that doesn't want to pay taxes. Barcelona is starting to act like Greece, in general. Hopefully, the majority of Catalans will continue to come out in support of Madrid, and not the diffident minority who feel they are in control by their independent spirit. Wrong, again, as they were 3 years ago.
Now the chickens have come home to roost. All the bluster and political posturing will now bear fruit of another sort. Defy federal law? There are consequences, and they come with the force of the constitution.
The EU wants to be a partner of Madrid, not a partner of a breakaway region that doesn't want to pay taxes. Barcelona is starting to act like Greece, in general. Hopefully, the majority of Catalans will continue to come out in support of Madrid, and not the diffident minority who feel they are in control by their independent spirit. Wrong, again, as they were 3 years ago.
Stalin: A Biography Volume 2
Historian Stephan Kotkin has published his second volume of a biography of mass murderer Josef Stalin. This door stop comes in at over 1000 pages. Not a light weight. This section will cover the nightmare years of the 1930's, that era of terror that haunts the country to this day.
More later
More later
WTO Looks At China
US trade representatives have asked the World Trade Organization to look more closely at the trade tactics being used by China to skirt the rules of international trade agreed upon by signotors of the agreement. China was admitted to the WTO in 2001, and since then has found ways to thwart efforts by other members to trade with China. Whereas Chinese goods and services have found their way across the globe, few countries have been able to crack the Chinese market. At every opportunity, Chinese trade rules and representatives have prohibited entry by foreign companies, thereby restricting trade and allowing state-owned Chinese companies to dominate certain markets.
One of the largest, most obvious problems is the international trade in steel and other metals. Steel makers in China, with the help of state financing, have delivered product around the world at prices that do not reflect actual production costs. This price support helps to eliminate competition in domestic markets where Chinese steel has been able to gain a foothold or more. The aluminum market is another example. Despite the WTO agreement, Chinese producers have been able to skirt controls by shipping product to offshore locations and then ship from those positions to large markets, eg. the USA. Aluminum from Chinese smelters has been found in Vietnam and Mexico, sitting in yards waiting for shipping. These tactics do not reflect well on the Chinese government nor its trade policies. If the Chinese want to be a trading "partner" in good standing, they must put some value on the terms agreed to in the WTO.
Good luck with that as Pres. Xi takes the reins of his market again for another 5 years. The latest Communist Party Congress in Beijing served to consolidate his administrative power and control.
See you at the Winter Olympics in 2 1/2 months in another Asian market.
One of the largest, most obvious problems is the international trade in steel and other metals. Steel makers in China, with the help of state financing, have delivered product around the world at prices that do not reflect actual production costs. This price support helps to eliminate competition in domestic markets where Chinese steel has been able to gain a foothold or more. The aluminum market is another example. Despite the WTO agreement, Chinese producers have been able to skirt controls by shipping product to offshore locations and then ship from those positions to large markets, eg. the USA. Aluminum from Chinese smelters has been found in Vietnam and Mexico, sitting in yards waiting for shipping. These tactics do not reflect well on the Chinese government nor its trade policies. If the Chinese want to be a trading "partner" in good standing, they must put some value on the terms agreed to in the WTO.
Good luck with that as Pres. Xi takes the reins of his market again for another 5 years. The latest Communist Party Congress in Beijing served to consolidate his administrative power and control.
See you at the Winter Olympics in 2 1/2 months in another Asian market.
Russya's Internet Research Agency
Mr. Putin's house organ the "Internet Research Agency" has had its name splashed all over Washington, D.C. this week. US Congressional hearings questioned representatives of the largest American social media companies and asked pointed questions of these company reps. The concerns reflected evidence that Russyan operatives placed misinformation ads across these platforms to manipulate naive Americans who visit these sites. By spending rubles on the ads, the Russyan operatives were able to effect a variety of influences regarding dividing social issues such as immigration, minority rights, police brutality, liberal politics, conservative sentiments, and voters' concerns on the international role of the US.
Sen. Mark Warner commented that these same social media platforms have facilitated Russyan propaganda and disinformation on a broad scale. For example, the Senator provided evidence that certain ads placed by the Internet Research Agency reached in excess of 140 million viewers. Many of the ads were placed as early as 2009. A considerable number were placed during the summer of 2016 when the US presidential campaign was in full swing. Hillary Clinton Democratic campaign spent over $81 million, but may not have been as effective as the Internet research Agency's own efforts.
Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Facebook commented that his company does not place profits above his customers. His company came under sharp criticism for promoting fake news, misinformation, and sowing discord among its readers and site visitors.
Mr. Putin must be laughing all the way to the Kremlin each morning as he heads to the office where he can manipulate the levers on his vast enterprise called Russya-with a little help from his friends at the Internet Research Agency, aka Radio Free Russya, or Radio Dictatorship Russya, or Disinformation Radio Russya, or Fake News Media Russya, or Fun Facks From Russya Media.
Hmmmmm.
And what's happening in Crimea besides the takeover of Ukraine property?
Sen. Mark Warner commented that these same social media platforms have facilitated Russyan propaganda and disinformation on a broad scale. For example, the Senator provided evidence that certain ads placed by the Internet Research Agency reached in excess of 140 million viewers. Many of the ads were placed as early as 2009. A considerable number were placed during the summer of 2016 when the US presidential campaign was in full swing. Hillary Clinton Democratic campaign spent over $81 million, but may not have been as effective as the Internet research Agency's own efforts.
Mark Zuckerberg, CEO of Facebook commented that his company does not place profits above his customers. His company came under sharp criticism for promoting fake news, misinformation, and sowing discord among its readers and site visitors.
Mr. Putin must be laughing all the way to the Kremlin each morning as he heads to the office where he can manipulate the levers on his vast enterprise called Russya-with a little help from his friends at the Internet Research Agency, aka Radio Free Russya, or Radio Dictatorship Russya, or Disinformation Radio Russya, or Fake News Media Russya, or Fun Facks From Russya Media.
Hmmmmm.
And what's happening in Crimea besides the takeover of Ukraine property?
Wednesday, November 1, 2017
Game Over: World Series Champions-Houston Astros
Charlie Morton gets a Game 7 win to add to his resume. He pitched 4 innings and gave up only 1 run to a great Dodger team. Despite many chances to score, the Dodgers could not make it happen, even in Dodger Stadium in front of the home fans.
Astros 5
Dodgers 1
Willie Mays Most Valuable Player Award goes to George Springer, the center fielder for the Astros. He only hit 5 homers during the Series.
Astros 5
Dodgers 1
Willie Mays Most Valuable Player Award goes to George Springer, the center fielder for the Astros. He only hit 5 homers during the Series.
Game 7: Astros Lead 5-1
So, we are finished 8 innings. Time is running out for the Dodgers. Houston pitcher Morton has pitched 3 shut out innings and has taken command for the Astros, holding a 4 run lead. The Dodgers have 3 more outs to make a challenge to the 'Stros.
Astros 5
Dodgers 1
Astros 5
Dodgers 1
Game 7-Astros Surge
Dodgers' pitcher Darvish gave up some hits and the Astros capitalized on same. Astros' hot hitter, G. Springer unloaded on a fastball and drove it into the seats for a 2-run homer.
Morrow comes in to pitch after 2 outs, Darvish goes to dugout.
Astros 5
Dodgers 0
Bottom of 2nd
Morrow comes in to pitch after 2 outs, Darvish goes to dugout.
Astros 5
Dodgers 0
Bottom of 2nd
Game 7: World Series Finale Tonight
Sports junkies will have a feast tonight as the Houston Astors and the Los Angeles Dodgers face off in the last game of a best of 7 series. Last night's game did not contain the fireworks of the other 5 games, but it stirred the locals into a frenzy of excitement that will carry through into Game 7.
The last Game 7 for the Dodgers franchise came many years ago, 1965 to be exact. Sandy Koufax was the star. It has been since 1988 that the Dodgers were in a Series, so this long drought is over in one respect. Now a victory would seal the contract for the team and the fans.
Nothing will be held back: "There is no tomorrow". Managers AJ Hinch and Dave Roberts both know -"It's all or nothing". The winner takes all. To the victors go the spoils, etc.,etc., etc. There will be heroes and goats on both sides. One pitcher will throw the last pitch, one or two players will record the last out; one player will score the winning run, and some lucky player will hold the ball that made the game end.
It's only a game, but what a game.
The last Game 7 for the Dodgers franchise came many years ago, 1965 to be exact. Sandy Koufax was the star. It has been since 1988 that the Dodgers were in a Series, so this long drought is over in one respect. Now a victory would seal the contract for the team and the fans.
Nothing will be held back: "There is no tomorrow". Managers AJ Hinch and Dave Roberts both know -"It's all or nothing". The winner takes all. To the victors go the spoils, etc.,etc., etc. There will be heroes and goats on both sides. One pitcher will throw the last pitch, one or two players will record the last out; one player will score the winning run, and some lucky player will hold the ball that made the game end.
It's only a game, but what a game.
Catalonia: New Elections Soon
Mr. Puigdemont, the provincial president of Catalonia acknowledged that the decision of the Supreme Court in Madrid is legally binding on his regional government. Ahhh, a moment of clarity fostered by the impending prospect of jail time for the rebel and his fellow rebellious rabble. Prime Minister of Spain, Mariano Rajoy, has ordered new elections to be held in Catalonia soon. The majority of citizens in Catalonia want to be part of Spain and have repeatedly stated the same. It was only 3 years ago that certain political types said that an election would settle the matter. An election was held, a majority voted for a central government by Madrid, but the opposition did not accept the results on its face. hence, the rebels continued to foment dissent; and now it appears that outside influences may have come into play. Scrutiny of political rhetoric on various web sites appears to have come from eastern European sources. This is becoming obvious as the USA confronts the Russyan meddling in its own democratic processes. When Spain resolves the current administrative crisis, experts will dissect the process used by social media adherents who were instrumental id stirring the population into separatist action, costing the economy of Spain millions of dollars in lost revenue. The very idea of sentiments opposing tourists and other visitors from going to Barcelona is repugnant by any measure.
Russyan Election Meddling on Facebook
All the effort into Robert Mueller's investigation has not affected the other investigation into fake news manipulation on paid/unpaid accounts that were posted before and after the 2016 presidential election. New information has been released that shows false information reached as many as 143 million Americans during this Kremlin-lead propaganda effort to sway American voters and to manipulate public perception of government in the US. This is the stock-in-trade of Russyan disinformation campaigns: sow confusion, provoke fear among the citizenry, compromise authority/security organizations, and then send in the dictator. How are things going in Ukraine?
The evidence is turning into a case of one thing leads to another, or where does all this evidence lead us?
The evidence is turning into a case of one thing leads to another, or where does all this evidence lead us?
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