Michael Lewis, the noted American author, journalist, reporter, has done it again: he has laid back the curtain on the workings of government institutions. This book lays back the curtain on the transfer of the Obama government to the Trumps. It, as you might suspect, is not pretty. In fact, it is downright scary. Yes, we've been subjected to the various idiosyncrasies of the Trump family across a few generations; yes we've read the daily quotes from Orange Head; yes we've witnessed the merry-go-round of political appointees; yes, we've been collectively embarrassed by the inclusion of his daughter and son-in-law in White House operations; yes, we have been bombarded by media coverage of the work of his staff members and their personal histories; and we have begged for relief from it all. Apparently, there's more.
How inept can a presidency be? Let Mr. Lewis count the ways. He focused his investigative journalism on the transition of leadership in two federal departments: the Dept. of Commerce, and the Dept. of Energy. He walks us through the sad period of transition: a period that actually has a basis in law: Congress encoded the requirement that departments facilitate transition by focusing on information necessary for new leadership of the same department. When Trump's victory was announced, the department leaders were already prepared to accept the new administration and its inevitable political appointees at the top.
The departments' leadership staff waited to welcome the new administration/administrators. And waited, and waited, and waited some more. Nothing happened. No inquiries, no meetings, no new faces: just nothing. How does this happen in the 21st Century? How does this happen in modern America? Do we, as a nation, deserve this treatment by a bunch of marauding idiots? How has this country produced such a tribe? Where will this tribe lead us over the 4/2 years? We have become shocked at where we have been taken by this money-grubbing horde of ignorant beasts. Woe the outcomes of our unconcern. Woe the result of our lack of voting/voter turnout. If there ever was a case to be made for imposing fines on those eligible voters who opt out of an election, 2016 was it.
So, Michael Lewis has exposed the results of the 2016 electoral debacle that we now live with. 2020 cannot come soon enough.
More later,
Happy New Year
Monday, December 31, 2018
Saturday, December 29, 2018
Book Review: Beyond the 100th Meridian, Wallace Stegner, 1953
Wallace Stegner, the brilliant writer who taught writing courses at Stanford University until he passed away, wrote a treatise on the West that covered the career of a well known American icon: John Wesley Powell. Powell is well known among students of 19th century America as the man who was first to run the Colorado River. By running the river, we mean he floated its unknown course from Wyoming near its source(s) to near the end as it emerged from the deep cut canyon in Arizona.
Powell himself published his report in the early 1870's, about 5 years after the event, and after a 2nd running of the river under slightly different circumstances(he had already seen the entire river).
Stegner provides a brief overview of the first running, including details of the biographies of the crew that joined Powell for the first exploration effort. He identified details that included earlier efforts in the high plateau country to locate potential crossing/fording locations, and to separate fact from myth concernng the known history of the region. Despite these efforts, Powell was not a waterman nor was he a mountain man. The crippled Civil war veteran had only one good arm, losing half the other to artillery fire at Shiloh.
After the successful river run, Powell became an instant American hero. He lectured far and wide, and began to seek a position that could afford him an opportunity to shape the future development of what amounted to over 40% of America, that land west of the 100th meridian. The 100th meridian is well known among geographers, geologists, agronomists, and other scientists for this meridian is the western boundary of rainfall that can sustain agriculture without irrigation. Powell correctly identified its importance to western development. Stegner tells the story of Powell's political career as one of the country's original bureaucrats. He was, to put it mildly, a genius who was endowed with an ability to inspire confidence and to rally other equals to a cause greater than oneself. It is a broad plank in the platform of American history and is worth a reader's efforts to understand how Powell's genius has followed his early career into the 21st century.
5 star rating
available in many editions, and paperback
Powell himself published his report in the early 1870's, about 5 years after the event, and after a 2nd running of the river under slightly different circumstances(he had already seen the entire river).
Stegner provides a brief overview of the first running, including details of the biographies of the crew that joined Powell for the first exploration effort. He identified details that included earlier efforts in the high plateau country to locate potential crossing/fording locations, and to separate fact from myth concernng the known history of the region. Despite these efforts, Powell was not a waterman nor was he a mountain man. The crippled Civil war veteran had only one good arm, losing half the other to artillery fire at Shiloh.
After the successful river run, Powell became an instant American hero. He lectured far and wide, and began to seek a position that could afford him an opportunity to shape the future development of what amounted to over 40% of America, that land west of the 100th meridian. The 100th meridian is well known among geographers, geologists, agronomists, and other scientists for this meridian is the western boundary of rainfall that can sustain agriculture without irrigation. Powell correctly identified its importance to western development. Stegner tells the story of Powell's political career as one of the country's original bureaucrats. He was, to put it mildly, a genius who was endowed with an ability to inspire confidence and to rally other equals to a cause greater than oneself. It is a broad plank in the platform of American history and is worth a reader's efforts to understand how Powell's genius has followed his early career into the 21st century.
5 star rating
available in many editions, and paperback
Friday, December 28, 2018
Blue Boy: 1770, T.Gainsborough
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| Thomas Gainsborough's Famous Boy |
The estate of the late Henry Huntington and his wife, Arabella, is magnificent to behold. While America did not, does not have royalty, it makes up for that by enshrining millionaires as the new royalty of self made capitalists. At one time, Arabella was the richest woman in the world, wealthier than the Queen of England. The 130 acre estate is home to many structures and gardens in addition to the library itself. The estate brings its treasures to a\over 500 thousand visitors a year. It is beautifully laid out and can accommodate the throngs that arrive throughout the year.
Don't miss this location when visiting Pasadena.
Road Trip: Last of 2018
The Mayor hit the road last weekend, gone south to get some sun. Southern california is always sunny. Not always hot, but always sunny. This time, there was a little rain thrown in to make it interesting. The Mayor likes the cultural scene across the landscape with many world class museums.
The Mayor stayed in Pasadena, on the eastside of the area, east of LA. The Rose City as it is nick named, has many classic homes and hotels. It also has the Rose Bowl, that famous setting for the grand daddy of college football games: The Rose Bowl, which will again be played this year on January 1, after the parade. Yes, preparations have been underway for 1 year. Now, signs are up, bleachers are in place; crowd restraints are beginning to make their appearance, and there's a buzz in the air. The floats are being constructed in nearby warehouses, and all the marchers are getting their finery ready for that big day.
On Christmas day, everything is justifiably closed excepting a few restaurants and fast food shops.
The mayor took a drive into the nearby mountains to catch the view from Mt. Wilson, site of the famous observatory. That building was also closed, but the view was great through the clouds. The temperature was in the high 30's on top, but little wind and the clouds did not obscure a look to the city below.
The Mayor stayed in Pasadena, on the eastside of the area, east of LA. The Rose City as it is nick named, has many classic homes and hotels. It also has the Rose Bowl, that famous setting for the grand daddy of college football games: The Rose Bowl, which will again be played this year on January 1, after the parade. Yes, preparations have been underway for 1 year. Now, signs are up, bleachers are in place; crowd restraints are beginning to make their appearance, and there's a buzz in the air. The floats are being constructed in nearby warehouses, and all the marchers are getting their finery ready for that big day.
On Christmas day, everything is justifiably closed excepting a few restaurants and fast food shops.
The mayor took a drive into the nearby mountains to catch the view from Mt. Wilson, site of the famous observatory. That building was also closed, but the view was great through the clouds. The temperature was in the high 30's on top, but little wind and the clouds did not obscure a look to the city below.
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| antenna masts Mt. Wilson summit |
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| view of Pasadena from Mt. Wilson looking West |
Who is Boris Paternak?
First clue: he's an author
Second clue: he is a poet.
Third clue: he wrote a famous novel that was made into a movie starring Julie Christie and Omar Sharif.
Fourth clue: the novel was smuggled to a French printer/publisher for publication.
Ans.
He's the famous Russyan writer of the 20th century Who was recognized by Josef Stalin for his poetry, thereby avoiding banishment to some god-forsaken gulag work camp. His famous work is, of course, Doctor Zhivago. Yes, it was banned in the old Soviet Union because it was perceived to be anti-state, anti-communist, anti-everything. Despite his recognition by the old King Commie, Pasternak had to make an attempt at following the party line. When he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, he did not travel to Sweden to receive his prize. He was rightly afraid that if he left, he would not be allowed to return to the largest country in the world.
However, his wife was not so lucky. She was arrested and put on trial for the usual charges: subversion of the state. She was questioned at length in that famous rat hole called a prison, Llubyanka. Despite her pregnant condition, she was still held in solitary for months. She lost that child due to conditions there.
Why are we talking about old Boris? Well, a documentary film has been produced that explains his life in a modern context and the effect his work had on the culture of the nation, a nation that only managed to survive for 70 years before imploding in 1989. Thanks to Mikhail Gorbachev,, the transition was bloodless, and a new nation emerged that had high hopes. Unfortunately, things have gone down hill of late as the Putin dictatorship continues to regress back to the former years when Russyans were subjects of the repressions of Communism and all its horrors.
The film will be aired on Acorn TV, Monday night. Like history? watch it.
Second clue: he is a poet.
Third clue: he wrote a famous novel that was made into a movie starring Julie Christie and Omar Sharif.
Fourth clue: the novel was smuggled to a French printer/publisher for publication.
Ans.
He's the famous Russyan writer of the 20th century Who was recognized by Josef Stalin for his poetry, thereby avoiding banishment to some god-forsaken gulag work camp. His famous work is, of course, Doctor Zhivago. Yes, it was banned in the old Soviet Union because it was perceived to be anti-state, anti-communist, anti-everything. Despite his recognition by the old King Commie, Pasternak had to make an attempt at following the party line. When he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, he did not travel to Sweden to receive his prize. He was rightly afraid that if he left, he would not be allowed to return to the largest country in the world.
However, his wife was not so lucky. She was arrested and put on trial for the usual charges: subversion of the state. She was questioned at length in that famous rat hole called a prison, Llubyanka. Despite her pregnant condition, she was still held in solitary for months. She lost that child due to conditions there.
Why are we talking about old Boris? Well, a documentary film has been produced that explains his life in a modern context and the effect his work had on the culture of the nation, a nation that only managed to survive for 70 years before imploding in 1989. Thanks to Mikhail Gorbachev,, the transition was bloodless, and a new nation emerged that had high hopes. Unfortunately, things have gone down hill of late as the Putin dictatorship continues to regress back to the former years when Russyans were subjects of the repressions of Communism and all its horrors.
The film will be aired on Acorn TV, Monday night. Like history? watch it.
Sunday, December 23, 2018
Internet Research Agency-Everybody's Fave Troll Farm
So, your business is looking to improve its customer outreach. You have an INstagram account; you have a Facebook presence; you have a "store" on eBay; Amazon prime has you listed; but, your business is not expanding as you would like. Plus, dealing with all this media networking takes valuable time. Time = money- your money. What to do? Maybe go with an account doctor/guru/manager/expert service provider. Somewhat like an investment account robot. Perfect, you think.
And then you find a service provider as you look over the landscape. You find YOUR DIGITAL FACE, a Los Angeles -based startup. The contact person is Yan Big Davis. Really?
In reality, really, it's all a sham created by the IRA, our dear friends in St. Petersburg, the Internet Research Agency, a.k.a. Mr. Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin's troll farm posing as a legitimate concern. It is, in fact a TROLL FARM! Yea, go get 'em Russyans. You're the best. Have some more vodka. Celebrate. "We've fooled the Amerikansky, again. Sergei Lavrov: "You Americans: you see a Russyan troll under every tree. It's an absurd response to your own double dealing".
The existence of the web site was reported earlier by the Daily Beast. New details of how it worked have been revealed by the WSJ. These trolls do not limit their efforts, and can also be found in Iran, Cuba, Vietnam, UAE, and China.
Large media companies have delisted the accounts on Google, etc. Mr. Davis has not responded to inquiries. Ha, ha, ha. No doubt the inquiries should be sent to the Kremlin, where all social media in Russya is initiated. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh,
Russya. It is a sad place, this largest country in the world. Beset by its demons born of the GREAT MURDERER, Josef Stalin, 100 years ago. Genetics is a source of much of the culture of Russya, and the current state of affairs underscores the continuing links to the past. Waiting another 100 years to have the gene pool altered sufficiently to shake off the stigma would be advised.
See you in a century Ivan.
And then you find a service provider as you look over the landscape. You find YOUR DIGITAL FACE, a Los Angeles -based startup. The contact person is Yan Big Davis. Really?
In reality, really, it's all a sham created by the IRA, our dear friends in St. Petersburg, the Internet Research Agency, a.k.a. Mr. Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin's troll farm posing as a legitimate concern. It is, in fact a TROLL FARM! Yea, go get 'em Russyans. You're the best. Have some more vodka. Celebrate. "We've fooled the Amerikansky, again. Sergei Lavrov: "You Americans: you see a Russyan troll under every tree. It's an absurd response to your own double dealing".
The existence of the web site was reported earlier by the Daily Beast. New details of how it worked have been revealed by the WSJ. These trolls do not limit their efforts, and can also be found in Iran, Cuba, Vietnam, UAE, and China.
Large media companies have delisted the accounts on Google, etc. Mr. Davis has not responded to inquiries. Ha, ha, ha. No doubt the inquiries should be sent to the Kremlin, where all social media in Russya is initiated. Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh,
Russya. It is a sad place, this largest country in the world. Beset by its demons born of the GREAT MURDERER, Josef Stalin, 100 years ago. Genetics is a source of much of the culture of Russya, and the current state of affairs underscores the continuing links to the past. Waiting another 100 years to have the gene pool altered sufficiently to shake off the stigma would be advised.
See you in a century Ivan.
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| Sail On, sail on |
Saturday, December 22, 2018
Oil Prices: How Low Can It Go?
So, the stock market(US) plunges. Profit taking, for sure. The NASDAQ hits bear market numbers, hitting a close of about 22% below the high just 4 months ago. But, we must remember: machine algorithims make about 64% of the trades these days, and most trading around the holidays is just that.
Mr. Putin: can you hear me? the ruble is not doing so well. What's happened to your local economy? Too oil dependent? Hmmmm. Vova can only say so much. Maybe he's got a few more rabbits in his hat. Maybe next week he'll march some vodka-stoked Muskovites into the Kurile Islands and start pouring concrete to irritate PM Abe in Tokyo. Maybe he'll send out a few teams with poison-laced tea and see what happens? Lookout London: Russyans afoot. Where are the Skripals? Nobody knows; and if they do, they ain't talking.
WQestern Christmas is in a few days; US Congress has fled Washington for Any place else. Who wants to stick around the nut house any longer. Temperatures in Muscova are hitting winters averages so not many local folks are wandering about Red Square looking for rubles.
Ahhhh, Christmas: a magical time of year. The price of gasoline should be down for the holidays: ha, ha, ha, ha-Chevron? CITGO? Hmmmm . How will the holidays be celebrated in Venezuela? With a sawdust filled roast seagull?
See ya.
Mr. Putin: can you hear me? the ruble is not doing so well. What's happened to your local economy? Too oil dependent? Hmmmm. Vova can only say so much. Maybe he's got a few more rabbits in his hat. Maybe next week he'll march some vodka-stoked Muskovites into the Kurile Islands and start pouring concrete to irritate PM Abe in Tokyo. Maybe he'll send out a few teams with poison-laced tea and see what happens? Lookout London: Russyans afoot. Where are the Skripals? Nobody knows; and if they do, they ain't talking.
WQestern Christmas is in a few days; US Congress has fled Washington for Any place else. Who wants to stick around the nut house any longer. Temperatures in Muscova are hitting winters averages so not many local folks are wandering about Red Square looking for rubles.
Ahhhh, Christmas: a magical time of year. The price of gasoline should be down for the holidays: ha, ha, ha, ha-Chevron? CITGO? Hmmmm . How will the holidays be celebrated in Venezuela? With a sawdust filled roast seagull?
See ya.
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| rough going:hang on |
Friday, December 21, 2018
The First Day of Winter:2018-19
Old man Winter arrived this morning in Lake Tahoe. Freezing temperatures throughout the basin testify to his arrival. Snow is on the ground, on the slopes and on the peaks as resort owners gear up for the big holiday season that kicks off today.
All the resorts are up and running with high expectations as the economy chugs along and citizens are spending with gay abandon. Perhaps the joy ride will continue well into 2019 and beyond. There are warning signs that the ride might just be slowing as the stock market indicates that investors are worried somewhat. Despite unemployment figures that show almost zero unemployment and wage gains are up in most sectors, Fed governors are being cautious about raising interest rates too quickly that could push the economy into recession, albeit a slight one. Fed chairman Powell has been trying to speak in tones that do not amount to warnings, but has had a difficult time explaining the position of his office. It seems no matter what he says the investment community will interpret his musings as indicators. And when he does say something, Mr. Trump cannot leave well enough alone and will tweet some absurd observation or opinion.
All the resorts are up and running with high expectations as the economy chugs along and citizens are spending with gay abandon. Perhaps the joy ride will continue well into 2019 and beyond. There are warning signs that the ride might just be slowing as the stock market indicates that investors are worried somewhat. Despite unemployment figures that show almost zero unemployment and wage gains are up in most sectors, Fed governors are being cautious about raising interest rates too quickly that could push the economy into recession, albeit a slight one. Fed chairman Powell has been trying to speak in tones that do not amount to warnings, but has had a difficult time explaining the position of his office. It seems no matter what he says the investment community will interpret his musings as indicators. And when he does say something, Mr. Trump cannot leave well enough alone and will tweet some absurd observation or opinion.
Chinese Military Hackers Idicted by US
Well, it has been in the works for awhile, and finally was made public on Thursday, December 20, 2018. Assistant Attorney General Rod Rosenstein unsealed the indictments of two hackers from China who are associated with the PLA security force-the Chinese Army's cyber center. The two individuals are in China and will not be extradited to the US to stand trial. There is no treaty of Extradition with the Chinese government in Beijing. It is unlikely that they will ever be able to travel without threat of arrest.
The unsealed documents identify successful targets of the two's efforts in the US: military computers, government departments, and most damaging-military subcontractors working on top secret development contracts for Pentagon officials. The Trump administration was notified by the Dept. of Justice that the indictments were pending and this action will join other information concerning China's 5 year plan to be independent of other countries whom they depend on for technology. The US has been a source of much of their technology that they waste no time copying and stealing outright for their own needs. The globalization of technology has not been treated with fair practices by the Chinese government. Most international cpmpanies who want entry into the Chinese market are forced to partner with Chinese companies equally or must provide codes and proprietary information that make the product unique in any way. Such tactics are beyond the bounds of normal global business. The stated goals of the Chinese government of world domination run contrary to accepted business practice. The ouster of the Chinese government from the WTO will no doubt take place in 2019. What effect this will have on the membership is hard to tell at this juncture as the Chinese economy shrinks from its current growth rate.
The unsealed documents identify successful targets of the two's efforts in the US: military computers, government departments, and most damaging-military subcontractors working on top secret development contracts for Pentagon officials. The Trump administration was notified by the Dept. of Justice that the indictments were pending and this action will join other information concerning China's 5 year plan to be independent of other countries whom they depend on for technology. The US has been a source of much of their technology that they waste no time copying and stealing outright for their own needs. The globalization of technology has not been treated with fair practices by the Chinese government. Most international cpmpanies who want entry into the Chinese market are forced to partner with Chinese companies equally or must provide codes and proprietary information that make the product unique in any way. Such tactics are beyond the bounds of normal global business. The stated goals of the Chinese government of world domination run contrary to accepted business practice. The ouster of the Chinese government from the WTO will no doubt take place in 2019. What effect this will have on the membership is hard to tell at this juncture as the Chinese economy shrinks from its current growth rate.
Wednesday, December 19, 2018
Propane Prices Follow Oil Drop
Well, if you waited to fill up your propane tank, you saved some money if you buy this week. The retail price is quoted at $0.68/gal. Delivery will cost you more. Propane retailers hate to lower prices especially during the winter months when they reap huge profits. So, when you order, start the bargaining early: absolutely refuse the first price; laugh at the second, and start to get serious thereafter.
Being stuck by energy price fixing condoned by the Justice Dept., consumers have few options. Suppliers also hate to lose customers, no matter if they know up front what the others are charging. So, put the squeeze on these highway robbers: bargain-always bargain. Change companies is another good startegy because often companies offer new customer discounts. Stay informed.
Being stuck by energy price fixing condoned by the Justice Dept., consumers have few options. Suppliers also hate to lose customers, no matter if they know up front what the others are charging. So, put the squeeze on these highway robbers: bargain-always bargain. Change companies is another good startegy because often companies offer new customer discounts. Stay informed.
Sunday, December 16, 2018
Russyan Trollope Pleads Guilty
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| Maria Butina- Loves Guns and American University |
Her brilliance was accepted across the board and her Russyan accent only enhanced her credibility. While traipsing about the country, she engaged various right wing groups, Republicans included. All her information gathering assisted her efforts to inform her bosses in the Kremlin where her status as informant reigned high. She was the perfect plant: young, of average appearance, aggressive, hungry, relatively intelligent, bold, and dedicated to rise up through the ranks of her organization-the FSB.
Now that her case has been settled in the USA, she can look forward to many lucrative assignments when she finally returns to the largest country in the world: Putinlandia.
Thursday, December 13, 2018
Chinese Police Go to Church
Well, no. It's not what you think. They did not go to church to pray or meditate. They had other plans. Apparently, a well respected and well known Chinese legal scholar has made sharp criticisms of certain political moves by Beijing. He accused the government of violating the Chinese constitution by enacting laws against practicing one's choice of religion. He was very outspoken, and encouraged citizens to voice protests against this constitutional violation. This was a bit much for the Communists. Can you imagine: allowing an individual to practice any religion he wanted? That's anarchy, minimally. So, arrest them. And arrest them they did.
About 100 Catholic Christians were arrested in Chengdu, Mr. Wang Yi among them. Who is Mr. Yi? Just one of the most famous legal scholars in Asia. He's been all over the world expressing his opinions, many critical of Beijing and the party members who sit there. His wife has not heard from him since his arrest. Others in the group have not made their whereabouts known. So, amidst an economic slowdown, political acts have become more of a focus of leaders in China. If they can't figure out how to respond to the Trump's call for new agreements, then they have to arrest some people.
And they have. What about the Christmas season in Chengdu? I know local citizens have Christmas lights up? Will the police pull all the plugs? Perhaps. We'll find out, Bunky.
About 100 Catholic Christians were arrested in Chengdu, Mr. Wang Yi among them. Who is Mr. Yi? Just one of the most famous legal scholars in Asia. He's been all over the world expressing his opinions, many critical of Beijing and the party members who sit there. His wife has not heard from him since his arrest. Others in the group have not made their whereabouts known. So, amidst an economic slowdown, political acts have become more of a focus of leaders in China. If they can't figure out how to respond to the Trump's call for new agreements, then they have to arrest some people.
And they have. What about the Christmas season in Chengdu? I know local citizens have Christmas lights up? Will the police pull all the plugs? Perhaps. We'll find out, Bunky.
Chinese Hackers Find Gold in USA
Well, now it has been confirmed: Chinese hackers have compromised a US corporation computer database. It was revealed that 2 1/2 years ago, Marriot/Starwood Hotel customer database was hacked open by the Chinese government and the personal information of 500 million customers was downloaded onto Chinese government servers. So, is this an act of cyberwar? Hmmm. This is being made public at a touchy time for both the USA and China. Pres. Trump wants to negotiate a new trade agreement with China. The US Dept. of Justice had Canada arrest a CFO of Huawei in Vancouver and asked for extradition. Chinese government police arrested two Canadians living in China. Chinese police arrest 100 locals in Chengdu(related?).
My, my, my. It's a restless world we live in. And it is particularly restless in the Far East)East ASIA). I assume that the C.I.A. has all the necessary data to point the finger at Beijing. No doubt, the Chinese military is the main culprit here as they have been in the pass. This makes Sec. of State Pompeo's job more interesting than ever. What a list of topics: Syria, Ukraine, Crimea, Black Sea, North Korea, Mexico(border), immigration, Spratley Islands, Taiwan, France, Germany, Brexit, Kremlin, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Canada, and EU.
Anyway, you now know that if you were a guest at any Starwood/Marriot hotel w/i the last 20 years, Beijing has your personal info, to wit:
Welcome to the 21st century.
My, my, my. It's a restless world we live in. And it is particularly restless in the Far East)East ASIA). I assume that the C.I.A. has all the necessary data to point the finger at Beijing. No doubt, the Chinese military is the main culprit here as they have been in the pass. This makes Sec. of State Pompeo's job more interesting than ever. What a list of topics: Syria, Ukraine, Crimea, Black Sea, North Korea, Mexico(border), immigration, Spratley Islands, Taiwan, France, Germany, Brexit, Kremlin, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Canada, and EU.
Anyway, you now know that if you were a guest at any Starwood/Marriot hotel w/i the last 20 years, Beijing has your personal info, to wit:
- passport number(s)
- credit card number(s)
- driver's license number
- home address
- vehicle license number
- preferred room
- length of stay
- favorite location(s)
- number of guests in your party
- size of tips
- photo ID
- cell phone #'s
- spouse name and same #'s
- countries you like to visit
- countries you spend the most time
- name of partners, children, parents
- company employed by
- government position of employment
- university attended
- sexual orientation
- average amount spent on credit at hotel
- Chinese contacts in mainland and US
- political affiliation(party of choice)
- religious preference
- hobbies
- LinkedIn profile
- Facebook account
Welcome to the 21st century.
Chinese Nab Canadian Citizen
Why was a canadian citizen grabbed off the street in China? Where is Michael Kovrig? Hmmmmm. Why is the Chinese Communist government exposing itself to sharp global criticism at a tie of increased tension among trading partners? Hmmm
Wednesday, December 12, 2018
Tahoe Snow Report
State of California Dept. of Water resources released an early seaon report on the Sierra snowpack. The report indicates that the situation is much improved over last year at this time with more snow on the ground by 50%. This is good news for all residents of the state, especially those living at the urban/wildland interface, the scene of much of the destructive fires that caused so much damage to life and property across the state.
Skiers, snow boarders, and resort owners(both of them) were delighted by the report. Tahoma residents are looking forward to a "normal" season for business among West Shore locations, including Homewood, Tahoma, Meeks Bay, and Tahoe City.
And more is on the way, setting up the crucial Christmas season for beautiful conditions for all visitors.
Skiers, snow boarders, and resort owners(both of them) were delighted by the report. Tahoma residents are looking forward to a "normal" season for business among West Shore locations, including Homewood, Tahoma, Meeks Bay, and Tahoe City.
And more is on the way, setting up the crucial Christmas season for beautiful conditions for all visitors.
Huawei Executive Freed on Bail
Ms. Meng Wanzhou, chief financial officer of Huawei technologies, was freed on bail by a Canadian judge, who, despite opposition, accepted the bail amount offered by her attorneys, which included cash and real estate she and her husband owned in Vancouver, B.C.
Ms. Waanzhou cried upon her release after being held for almost 3 weeks. Her arrest on charges of fraud electrified governments of China, the U.S. and Canada. She is the daughter of the founder of the company and is thought to be in line to assume the role of chief executive. Her extradition is sought by the US Dept. of Justice, but it could take time, maybe months. As part of her release agreement, she must be monitored electronically(wear a cuff), she is restricted in movement during daylight hours, and must be confined from 11pm until 6am.
The allegations unsealed by the judge include making false statements about subsidiaries owned by the company; about the sale of certain technology to Iran in violation of existing sanctions; and conspiring to evade sanctions by the establishment of shell companies used to conceal the company's actions. banks involved are Citigroup, Inc., Australia & New Zealand Group Ltd., DBS Group Holdings Ltd., and Bank of China.
Her arrest also came at the time of the Group of 20 Economic conference in Argentina where Pres. Xi was to meet with Pres. Trump to continue their trade talks that appear to be headed to tariffs and a possible trade war of sorts.
Yesterday, China arrested a Canadian official in China in retaliation. American business executives have been put on alert and no doubt will change travel plans to east Asia.
Ms. Waanzhou cried upon her release after being held for almost 3 weeks. Her arrest on charges of fraud electrified governments of China, the U.S. and Canada. She is the daughter of the founder of the company and is thought to be in line to assume the role of chief executive. Her extradition is sought by the US Dept. of Justice, but it could take time, maybe months. As part of her release agreement, she must be monitored electronically(wear a cuff), she is restricted in movement during daylight hours, and must be confined from 11pm until 6am.
The allegations unsealed by the judge include making false statements about subsidiaries owned by the company; about the sale of certain technology to Iran in violation of existing sanctions; and conspiring to evade sanctions by the establishment of shell companies used to conceal the company's actions. banks involved are Citigroup, Inc., Australia & New Zealand Group Ltd., DBS Group Holdings Ltd., and Bank of China.
Her arrest also came at the time of the Group of 20 Economic conference in Argentina where Pres. Xi was to meet with Pres. Trump to continue their trade talks that appear to be headed to tariffs and a possible trade war of sorts.
Yesterday, China arrested a Canadian official in China in retaliation. American business executives have been put on alert and no doubt will change travel plans to east Asia.
Tuesday, December 11, 2018
The Mayor and the Falcon
The Mayor was on a Southern California inspection trip this time last week to view the damage of the Thomas Fire in the vic. of the city of Thousand Oaks and the city of Malibu. We drove south on Highway 101, the north/south artery that reaches the coast around Santa Barbara. We drove through Thousand Oaks and could view the extensive damage from the freeway where the fire jumped across 6 lanes of the roadway, roaring across the asphalt before consuming parts of the landscape. The blackened hills are a testimony to the scorched earth that remains aftyer being swept by the wind-driven flames. Many structures were spared, no doubt because of the easy access by fire personnel mounted on their engines and tanker trucks. Seeing is believing when it comes to fire. No smoke was visible as the fires have been subdued and contained for over a week.
While in the neighborhood, we decided to visit the town of Los Olivos(the olives). The small, quaint town maintains a country flavor given its modern connotation as a vineyard growing area that produces fine varieties of grapes. As we drove on Highway 154 north from Santa Barbara, we climbed over San Marcos Pass. Driving along, we noticed a bright object seemingly stuck in the northern sky. Driving at about 50 mph, we could see that it was slowly climbing into the morning sky. Whatever it was, it had a blazing tail. The Mayor then realized that a missile must have just been launched from Vandenberg AF Base in nearby Lompoc/Point Conception. Within seconds, a white plume of smoke could be easily seen, confirming the assumption that a space vehicle had been launched. The smoke dissipated, and the bright flash disappeared from view. Turning on the news, we learned that this was a Space X launch, the 19th of the year. This missile carried 64 satellites of various types. The booster rocket was successfully retrieved , marking a record 3rd recovery for this particular rocket. Elon MUsk was delighted to say the least. This sight was a pleasant surprise and was in sharp contrast to the fire blackened country side found farther south in Thousand Oaks. Many contributors added satellites to the capsule, including the company PLANET of San Francisco. More about that later.
While in the neighborhood, we decided to visit the town of Los Olivos(the olives). The small, quaint town maintains a country flavor given its modern connotation as a vineyard growing area that produces fine varieties of grapes. As we drove on Highway 154 north from Santa Barbara, we climbed over San Marcos Pass. Driving along, we noticed a bright object seemingly stuck in the northern sky. Driving at about 50 mph, we could see that it was slowly climbing into the morning sky. Whatever it was, it had a blazing tail. The Mayor then realized that a missile must have just been launched from Vandenberg AF Base in nearby Lompoc/Point Conception. Within seconds, a white plume of smoke could be easily seen, confirming the assumption that a space vehicle had been launched. The smoke dissipated, and the bright flash disappeared from view. Turning on the news, we learned that this was a Space X launch, the 19th of the year. This missile carried 64 satellites of various types. The booster rocket was successfully retrieved , marking a record 3rd recovery for this particular rocket. Elon MUsk was delighted to say the least. This sight was a pleasant surprise and was in sharp contrast to the fire blackened country side found farther south in Thousand Oaks. Many contributors added satellites to the capsule, including the company PLANET of San Francisco. More about that later.
Saturday, December 8, 2018
Macron of France Meets Reality
Wear a yellow vest: get gassed. That's probably what will happen this weekend all over the French environment. Protesters are angry. Macron's gas tax increase has cracked open the hornets nest of anger held in the countryside of France. In a country where taxes make up 46% of G.D.P., working folks get a little testy about taxes. Any increase must be justified again and again. Mr. Macron says that it will help the climate of the world to reduce pollution. Bah, says the people. So, they take to the streets of Paris and every other French town , city, and village. The people are mad as hell and they aren't going to take it anymore. Hmmmm. sounds familiar. Sounds ominous. Mr. Macron rescinded the tax increase on fuel. The protesters still aren't satisfied. They want more. What else can he give them?
We'll see, won't we.
We'll see, won't we.
Wa Wa HUawei
Hmmmm. Go to Canada: Get arrested. So, the CFO of Chinese telecom Giant Hwahei was arrested in Vancouver, Canada as she tried to change planes on a journey to visit family. The arrest warrant was made on behalf of the United States Dept. of Justice. The allegations indicate that she facilitated illegal sales of company products to Iran through companies not listed as subsidiaries of Hwawei. This act alone sends the message to China that these on going trade talks will not be based on conversations about doing business in China. It will entail the complete business model of the Chinese government. Using tactics that include the stealing of trade secrets, theft of technology, requiring companies to share proprietary information as a condition of doing business, and a requirement to partner with state -owned companies to do business in China has finally reached the boiling point. Now China must face the reality of their methods: they aren't going to be forgicven any longer: game over, Mr, Xi.
George Herbert Walker Bush-R.I.P.
Former President of the United States George H.W. Bush passed away yesterday at age 94. Wheelchair bound for the last year or so, the much loved executive died after a lengthy illness. His biography includes many posts throughout government: Congress, the United Nations, The C.I.A., the National Security Council, and many other positions of high import.
He started out in World War II as the youngest pilot on the Navy roster, getting his wings when only 18 years old. He was shot down during the war by Japanese antiaircraft fire(AA), and was rescued by a US Navy submarine(USS Bowfin) and returned to the naval air forces. After the war, he married his wife, the late Barbara Bush who passed away recently. They hold the record of the longest Presidential marriage, surpassing John and Abigail Adams.
He fathered a large brood of children, including 2 sons who served in various government roles: George W. Bush who became US president, Jeb Bush became governor of Florida. One child, a daughter, died as an infant.
He was a US Vice President for 8 years under Pres. Ronald Reagan. He performed admirably in this unheralded role, supporting a popular president during the Cold War as it neared its conclusion.
He signed the Americans With Disabilities Act(ADA) which changed the lives of millions of Americans with afflictions that limited their contributions to society. He assisted in the transition of Russya from totalitarian state to a more democratic government(which is still in transition) without a violent civil war. He helped Germany merge together when fears of a unified Germany caused anxieties among other Western European neighbors. He treated all members of Congress with respect and friendship knowing to do otherwise was un-American. He offered his son, George, unfailing support in his role as the President, but did not enter the limelight when he easily could have done so.
He was the last president who was part of the greatest generation that fought in WW II.
He will long be remembered as a great American.
He started out in World War II as the youngest pilot on the Navy roster, getting his wings when only 18 years old. He was shot down during the war by Japanese antiaircraft fire(AA), and was rescued by a US Navy submarine(USS Bowfin) and returned to the naval air forces. After the war, he married his wife, the late Barbara Bush who passed away recently. They hold the record of the longest Presidential marriage, surpassing John and Abigail Adams.
He fathered a large brood of children, including 2 sons who served in various government roles: George W. Bush who became US president, Jeb Bush became governor of Florida. One child, a daughter, died as an infant.
He was a US Vice President for 8 years under Pres. Ronald Reagan. He performed admirably in this unheralded role, supporting a popular president during the Cold War as it neared its conclusion.
He signed the Americans With Disabilities Act(ADA) which changed the lives of millions of Americans with afflictions that limited their contributions to society. He assisted in the transition of Russya from totalitarian state to a more democratic government(which is still in transition) without a violent civil war. He helped Germany merge together when fears of a unified Germany caused anxieties among other Western European neighbors. He treated all members of Congress with respect and friendship knowing to do otherwise was un-American. He offered his son, George, unfailing support in his role as the President, but did not enter the limelight when he easily could have done so.
He was the last president who was part of the greatest generation that fought in WW II.
He will long be remembered as a great American.
Sunday, December 2, 2018
New President in Mexico: Obrador
Welcome to the world, Mr. Obrador. How do you like the view so far? How do you like Mr. Maduro of Venezuela? Seems you two are pretty tight, as they say. Well, now you must answer for the " caravans transiting your country on their way to the US. Seems a few members of earlier caravans don't like your response: they want out, now. Yes, you sent a plane load home to Nicauagua yesterday, but what about the other 5000? It's winter now and rainy and cold on the Mexican border at Tijuana. Some response is necessary: now.
Deutsche Bank: Gotcha
Oh, my. Front page news, again. It just seems German bankers can't do anything right. Over 170 agents of the German government "raided" the bank's headquarters in Stuttgart on Wednesday and searched for evidence of more wrong doing. This is big news in Europe as Deutches Bank has a long reach across the EU and the world. It seems that some rogue elements inside the bank have been laundering money, again. Are they " asleep at the wheel" like the gent inside the driver less car stopped by police yesterday? Hmmmm. Seems the bank was doing some shady things with billions of $ that were deposited in a Lithuania subsidiary, Danske Bank. This tiny bank was passing through billions of deposits without telling anybody. Hmmmm. How can this be, if not policy? How do we answer that question?
Boise, Idaho: Why?
Have you been to Boise, Idaho? Where is Boise, Idaho and why do I care.? Boise, Idaho is a lovely town, nestled up against the eastern slope of the famous Rocky Mountains, the chain that runs through the US from Canada to Mexico and provided a temporary obstacle to westward migration 200 years ago. They have winter in Boise: snow and ice, but it doesn't linger as it does father north. There's good soil for growing in the area_"famous Potatoes" is a well known moniker pertaining to some of its produce. But there's more. It has become something of a tech hub.
You didn't know this? Shame on you. The Chinese Government knows Boise better than you and me and most citizens of Tahoma. Why, you ask? Hmmmmmm.
You didn't know this? Shame on you. The Chinese Government knows Boise better than you and me and most citizens of Tahoma. Why, you ask? Hmmmmmm.
Germany and The Foreign Service in China
Our Minister of East Asian Affairs picked up and interesting bit of foreign policy as practiced by our European ally, Germany. The country's immigration policies have been much discussed of late as Angela Merkel prepares to leave her position as germany's leader. She famously said we welcome refugees and promptly admitted over 1 million Syrian refugees along with many others. It didn't take long for this statement to come back to haunt her. Far right populists gathered and publicly rebuked the policy and its results. However, other policies in place in Germany no doubt contribute. If a foreign national obtains a German citizen sponsor, that foreign national is immediately given a visa to visit Germany. It sounds extravagant if not careless in today's world. That visa even allows the individual to work and live unmolested in the country. The hook is this: if that individual should run afoul of the law in any fashion, he/she is deported and all costs related to the process are borne by--- the sponsor. Very interesting. No stats were provided. More research is needed in this area.
Our Minister will look into this policy and report back.
Our Minister will look into this policy and report back.
Face to Face in Argentina
Hey, I'm looking at you. Yes, and I'm returning the "look" to you. And that's pretty much what one can take away from the meeting of Pres. trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi J P. They had a nice lunch together with their various staff toadies who also "looked" at one another. It's almost summer in the southern hemisphere which means late springtime in B.A. alongside the River Plate. The G-20 meeting is underway; world leaders have gathered to discuss globalization, or world economics; or what share of the pie do I get. What comes out of these meetings is anybody's guess.
Let see: more oe fewer tariffs? The US and China agreed no more tariffs January 1, 2019. More discussions about trade between the two behemoths. The Chinese economy is slowing and some leaders are nervous about next year. Europeans are getting anxious about 2019 and what their respective economies can expect. In March 2019, the Brexit deadline for the separation of the UK from the EU is supposed to occur. An agreement has been reached, but now that must be approved in Parliament between now and March. PM Theresa May has her work cut out for the holidays. She's already taking her show on the road to sell the agreement to the "people".
Mr. Putin, of the largest country in the world, where he has been the chief dictator and disrupter for more than 18 years, was loping around looking for friends without much luck. Yes, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia talked with Vova, but not much is expected to come of that. With the price of oil hovering near $50/barrel, these oil producing countries have to readjust their spending at home and abroad. Down in Ukraine, Russya is at it again, making noise and upsetting Poroshenko(declared martial law and put military forces on alert). Maybe Russya will back off but that's doubtful given Putin's agenda in that neck of the woods. He wants the world to keep on guessing as to his moves and motives. But when you are a dictator, who cares what happens among the population.
More pronouncements will be published today, but not much will happen: it's all talk, no action.
Happy Springtime.
Let see: more oe fewer tariffs? The US and China agreed no more tariffs January 1, 2019. More discussions about trade between the two behemoths. The Chinese economy is slowing and some leaders are nervous about next year. Europeans are getting anxious about 2019 and what their respective economies can expect. In March 2019, the Brexit deadline for the separation of the UK from the EU is supposed to occur. An agreement has been reached, but now that must be approved in Parliament between now and March. PM Theresa May has her work cut out for the holidays. She's already taking her show on the road to sell the agreement to the "people".
Mr. Putin, of the largest country in the world, where he has been the chief dictator and disrupter for more than 18 years, was loping around looking for friends without much luck. Yes, the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia talked with Vova, but not much is expected to come of that. With the price of oil hovering near $50/barrel, these oil producing countries have to readjust their spending at home and abroad. Down in Ukraine, Russya is at it again, making noise and upsetting Poroshenko(declared martial law and put military forces on alert). Maybe Russya will back off but that's doubtful given Putin's agenda in that neck of the woods. He wants the world to keep on guessing as to his moves and motives. But when you are a dictator, who cares what happens among the population.
More pronouncements will be published today, but not much will happen: it's all talk, no action.
Happy Springtime.
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Let's talk Pussy cats |
Thursday, November 29, 2018
Chess Champion:2018
Magnus Carlsen, world chess champion, defeated a challenger this week to retain his title as No.1 in World Chess. Good for him. He works hard moving those pieces around the checkered board. After several draws, rapid fire timed games were used to settle the match. Carlsen prevailed, again.
Oil Price Slides as G-20 Conference set to Open in Argentina
Well, no doubt the price of oil and its slide to lowest levels in 8 years will dominate discussions in Buenos Aries, Argentina. The G-20 members will need to alter their speeches and their predictions for the next 12 months or so. Nobody can predict the future with any accuracy, but these folks don't adhere to this reality. They sleep better when their rosy predictions are made for the media to digest, which will then be distributed to the masses for immediate consumption.
Russya will have to hone the numbers for its economy. While not in free fall yet, the ruble has been battered relentlessly during 2018. Much of this is due to sanctions imposed by the US and its Allies in Western Europe. However, combined with this weeks Russyan Navy actions in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov, the price of oil slide could disrupt plans of the Kremlin and Mr. Putin in particular. Perhaps Mr. Putin will cozy up more closely with XiJP? Maybe not. Perhaps he'll cozy up with Mr. Assad in Syria and talk about continuing support for the government that kills its own citizens. Mr. Trump will not meet with Mr. Putin during the conference. His National Security staff advised against such a meeting. The issue of further sanctions will include banishing Russya from the SWIFT banking protocol of international settlements. This economic tool benefits all members with international transactions between banks. Closing this venue to Russyan finances will cripple all business activity in Russya. Perhaps when the population feels the sting of this whip, they might ask Mad Vlad to curtail is ill-advised adventurism down south. Ha, that blockhead doesn't listen to anybody, only his KGB gut. Too bad for the little guy in Vladivostok trying to put food on the table.
Life in Argentina will be exposed somewhat during the conference. Much of this country's domestic economy is in a shamble. Continued decline in GDP has placed significant challenges to locals. The peso has dropped in value against the dollar all year. While not as bad as Venezuela, Argentina and the people suffer. Maybe Mr. Trump will direct his peole to open a few new hotels on the River Plate.
Speaking of River, the football team, things got ugly down there last week. A contest between River and its neighbor, the BOCA Juniors was cancelled due to violence among fans waiting at River's home stadium. Sadly, the fans who met the team bus of the Juniors decided that assaulting the bus was a good strategy. It backfired. After some fans rushed the turnstiles, others pelted the bus with rocks and bottles. Several players were injured and taken to hospital. Football officials cancelled the game. A sad testimony to local policing and local governing; not cool Argentina.
Russya will have to hone the numbers for its economy. While not in free fall yet, the ruble has been battered relentlessly during 2018. Much of this is due to sanctions imposed by the US and its Allies in Western Europe. However, combined with this weeks Russyan Navy actions in the Black Sea and Sea of Azov, the price of oil slide could disrupt plans of the Kremlin and Mr. Putin in particular. Perhaps Mr. Putin will cozy up more closely with XiJP? Maybe not. Perhaps he'll cozy up with Mr. Assad in Syria and talk about continuing support for the government that kills its own citizens. Mr. Trump will not meet with Mr. Putin during the conference. His National Security staff advised against such a meeting. The issue of further sanctions will include banishing Russya from the SWIFT banking protocol of international settlements. This economic tool benefits all members with international transactions between banks. Closing this venue to Russyan finances will cripple all business activity in Russya. Perhaps when the population feels the sting of this whip, they might ask Mad Vlad to curtail is ill-advised adventurism down south. Ha, that blockhead doesn't listen to anybody, only his KGB gut. Too bad for the little guy in Vladivostok trying to put food on the table.
Life in Argentina will be exposed somewhat during the conference. Much of this country's domestic economy is in a shamble. Continued decline in GDP has placed significant challenges to locals. The peso has dropped in value against the dollar all year. While not as bad as Venezuela, Argentina and the people suffer. Maybe Mr. Trump will direct his peole to open a few new hotels on the River Plate.
Speaking of River, the football team, things got ugly down there last week. A contest between River and its neighbor, the BOCA Juniors was cancelled due to violence among fans waiting at River's home stadium. Sadly, the fans who met the team bus of the Juniors decided that assaulting the bus was a good strategy. It backfired. After some fans rushed the turnstiles, others pelted the bus with rocks and bottles. Several players were injured and taken to hospital. Football officials cancelled the game. A sad testimony to local policing and local governing; not cool Argentina.
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| Need oil? Need SWIFT? |
Snow: Ready or Not
Well, you asked for it, and a favorable response has been recognized. This first large storm to hit this winter will dump heavy amounts of powder from 6000' to the highest peaks above 9000'. This will provide the necessary base for the whole 2018-2019 ski season. Most businesses will cheer the weather change; most will firm up seasonal planning, adjusting hiring plans, and will prepare for larger crowds this year. The economy is riding the wave of expansion that continues to promote consumer spending across all sectors.
The latest designs in snow boards and skis will be seen on the slopes this year. While no disruptive designs have been introduced, many skiers/boarders have waited for a good season to upgrade. This could be the year.
Forecasters are predicting over 4' of new snow inside the Basin this week. Warm up the snow blower, put an edge on the shovel, and get to work.
The latest designs in snow boards and skis will be seen on the slopes this year. While no disruptive designs have been introduced, many skiers/boarders have waited for a good season to upgrade. This could be the year.
Forecasters are predicting over 4' of new snow inside the Basin this week. Warm up the snow blower, put an edge on the shovel, and get to work.
Wednesday, November 28, 2018
Your in the Navy Now: Russyan Navy, That Is
So, Black Sea, south eastern Europe, Ukraine, Kazakstan, and don't forget Ukrainian Crimea. Old Mad Vlad, aka VoVa, has given the green light(Go) to the Russyan Navy to absorb a few Ukrainian vessels in the Black Sea. Sounds like the old Revolutionary times in the Atlantic Ocean when those nasty British sailors would board a US merchant ship and impress the crew into the Royal Navy: not a fun transition. Imagine: you're sailing along in the Black Sea and your vessel is approached by a Putin Ship flying the 3 stripes of the Russky Federation, aka Putin's Navy, and ordered to stop or be blown out of the water by force. Next step, you are taken prisoner by a bunch of Russyan thugs disguised as drunken sailors-well, not really disguised-they are all drunk as usual. Now what?
Messages sent, conditions noted, and Mr. Putin sends a message of sorts to his Bro, Trump in White House: "Your move!". What will Trump do? He'll tell Angela Merkel not to sit next to Putin at the G-20 Summit tomorrow, and that taking Navy ships by force is bad for the price of oil in the Middle East. Perhaps it will enhance Putin's stature among his homies in St. Petersburg and Moscova? Or maybe Vladivostok, or Beijing, or Ankara.
The Ukraine government has declared martial law, and has put troops on alert against another Russyan tactical move in the area of the Donbass region and Crimea. Have you seen the new bridge that was built connecting Crimea to mainland? Pretty. Moscova must have money to burn. But wait: aren't Russyans in the streets bad mouthing Kremlin moves that aggravate the West and cause more sanctions to be heaped upon the populace? Why, yes.
Ahh, VoVa, after 19 years of your dictatorship, folks have had enough. Next you will see the "yellow vests" come out of the packets and the new Russyan winter landscape will start to look like an alpine photo with quaking aspens in the foreground. Maybe new elections will be held sometime soon: 2040 or 2050.
Can't wait. Bill Browder can't wait either.
Messages sent, conditions noted, and Mr. Putin sends a message of sorts to his Bro, Trump in White House: "Your move!". What will Trump do? He'll tell Angela Merkel not to sit next to Putin at the G-20 Summit tomorrow, and that taking Navy ships by force is bad for the price of oil in the Middle East. Perhaps it will enhance Putin's stature among his homies in St. Petersburg and Moscova? Or maybe Vladivostok, or Beijing, or Ankara.
The Ukraine government has declared martial law, and has put troops on alert against another Russyan tactical move in the area of the Donbass region and Crimea. Have you seen the new bridge that was built connecting Crimea to mainland? Pretty. Moscova must have money to burn. But wait: aren't Russyans in the streets bad mouthing Kremlin moves that aggravate the West and cause more sanctions to be heaped upon the populace? Why, yes.
Ahh, VoVa, after 19 years of your dictatorship, folks have had enough. Next you will see the "yellow vests" come out of the packets and the new Russyan winter landscape will start to look like an alpine photo with quaking aspens in the foreground. Maybe new elections will be held sometime soon: 2040 or 2050.
Can't wait. Bill Browder can't wait either.
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| Want to join my Navy? |
Monday, November 26, 2018
Goldman Sachs: Trouble Again
Are banks really just chartered illegal enterprises allowed to exist as long as they kick back to overseers? What's going on this time? Now let's see: indictments were unsealed by the Justice Dept. against two high ranking employees who are alleged to have been involved in the 1MDB scandal involving Jho Low, the man accused of fooling Wall St. bankers and absconding with billions. Now it has been learned that Mr. Lloyd Blankfein, just recently replaced as CEO of Goldman Sachs, actually met with Jho Low several times during the search for new business in Asia. Mr. Low somehow worked the 1MDB fund so it appeared that these funds were going to be invested to promote Malaysian national interests. But, something happened along the way. Mr. Low forgot whose money he was investing; or he was confused, thinking it was HIS money. Maybe he told Mr. Blankfein it WAS his money.
More will come out as the case against former Goldman Sachs executives is made known. Goldman Sachs is known to have made more than $600 million dollars in fees dealing with 1MDB. It's a shame that these well respected individuals compromise their integrity for a few bucks. Mr. Blankfein's net worth is reported to be $1.1 billions of dollars. The man is 64 years old. He won;t live long enough to spend it. What will happen to it? Maybe he'll give it to Bill Gates or Warren B. and their charitable foundations that fund international health programs.
We'll soon find out how much he's really worth as investigators delve into 1MDB records. Where is Mr. Low? Disappearing in China, where else.
More will come out as the case against former Goldman Sachs executives is made known. Goldman Sachs is known to have made more than $600 million dollars in fees dealing with 1MDB. It's a shame that these well respected individuals compromise their integrity for a few bucks. Mr. Blankfein's net worth is reported to be $1.1 billions of dollars. The man is 64 years old. He won;t live long enough to spend it. What will happen to it? Maybe he'll give it to Bill Gates or Warren B. and their charitable foundations that fund international health programs.
We'll soon find out how much he's really worth as investigators delve into 1MDB records. Where is Mr. Low? Disappearing in China, where else.
Saturday, November 24, 2018
Oh Japan: Trouble Under Mt. Fuji
The chairman of Nissan was arrested by authorities and placed in a detention facility allegedly for financial misconduct related to stock-related pay. Hmmmm. How can this be? The chairman of one of the world's leading auto maker-busted? Carlos Ghosn has been feted as the go=to company fixer. The company Renault, where he serves as both chairman and chief executive was also informed of the action. Nissan stock took a big hit after the announcement., falling 5.5%. How this plays out has yet to be determined, but it has sent shock waves throughout the world. More later.
Snow: At Last
Well, folks, the forecasters got this one right: snow has arrived at the Lake. At the Lake shore, various measures found almost a foot of powder. Above 8000', a few inches more depending on the exposure. This will please resort companies and weekend guests, of which there are more than a few. Thanksgiving always welcomes the early birds to the slopes. Homewood is not quite ready for prime time; it's opening day is still a ways off. Snowcat Adventures, the new offering at Homewood, will start gearing up for back country fun soon. The "Cat" can handle about 10 skiers w/ gear. The goal is to reach those runs not served by regular lifts. These scouted runs provide deep powder, pristine snow, and a ride to and from. One of the bennies of Homewood, Tahoma's back yard park.
Storm total is about 14" so all the runs and all the mountains are winter white. Enjoy the views.
Storm total is about 14" so all the runs and all the mountains are winter white. Enjoy the views.
Thursday, November 22, 2018
Weather Brings Relief to Northern California
Weather forecasters were correct: rain arrived over the north state yesterday bringing long awaited moisture to the tinder dry area around Chico, where the Camp Fire caused such devastation in the town of Paradise. Firefighters believe they may have the blaze contained today or tomorrow. Containment will not improve the lives of evacuees who are dispersed far and wide around the area. Many are in shelters in Chico, some in Sacramento, some with relatives where they can find them. More than 10, 000 structures were destroyed in the wind-driven inferno. The death toll is close to 80 lives, and the search for victims continues.
The Woolsey fire in Southern California' s city of Malibu is just about fully contained. The firefighters on the scene are confident their efforts have been successful. Time will tell.
The Woolsey fire in Southern California' s city of Malibu is just about fully contained. The firefighters on the scene are confident their efforts have been successful. Time will tell.
Who is Maj. Gen. Alexander Prokopchuk?
If you guessed that he's a Russyan, you'd be right. But who is he, really? That rank, major general, indicates he's a politician of some repute, no matter where he serves or what he's done to get there. He has headed Interpol's National Central Bureau for Russya since 2011, or about 7 yrs ago. He's also combined that job with the role of the agency's vice presidency since 2016. So, he's a working stiff, a bureaucrat, an apparat
chik. His name surfaced, naturally, as a possible successor to Meng Hongwei, who resigned last month after Chinese authorities(PLA) arrested him and charged him with corruption(drinking bourbon, laughing, making jokes about XiJP, socializing with Westerners, looking at women not his wife, and wearing argyle sox). Normal stuff. So, after a brief period of notoriety, Hongwei disappeared from the front pages, and a replacement name was soon floated out of the hangar. Name Prokopchuk.
And then, the storm broke. Like a tsunami wave, the shrieks and screams reached a crescendo across the globe. Members of the US Congress wailed like banshees, asserting that his appointment would lead to the demise of law and order worldwide. "This must not happen", they said. The chorus was taken up in Europe and poor old Prokopchuk saw the handwriting on the wall. While he didn't withdraw his name, no nameplates were cut and replaced on the doors at HQ. The mere thought of a Russyan as head of INTERPOL sent legions of police and security personnel directly to the pharmacia where they loaded up on antacids, bicarb of soda, Pepto(strong version), and maybe some Prilosec. Can you imagine?
Jumping into the fray was American businessman and Kremlin target, Bill Browder. We've written about Bill in the past and we've reviewed his book about his experiences in Russya dealing with the kleptocracy that formed there after the fall of the old, old, old Soviet Union, Uncle Joe's creation. Mr. Browder's lawyer, Sergei Magnitsky even gave his name to a law passed in US Congress, called the Magnitsky Act, that gave the US the powers to hold Russyans responsible for criminal acts against dissenters by banning them from travel to the US, and banning them from doing business(banking, etc.) with any US company or bank. And it's working! It's been a boon to the US diplomatic effort to deal with a rogue state and its perps.(Medvedev, Putin, etc.). Mr. Browder correctly warned in media statements that having a Russyan at the helm of the organization would place the lives of ex-pat Russyans who were critical of Putin and the Kremlin in jeopardy. (see Skripal story). Mr. Browder himself, living in London, cannot travel to Russya without fear of being arrested. Russya even had Interpol notified that he's been charged in Moscova as a criminal(tax evasion). Hard to believe these antics are still going on in 2018, but they are.
Combine this story with recent revelations that R ussyan hackers are actively working to subvert the West with a massive disinformation campaign to sow fear and uncertainty among the populations.
See 2016 US presidential election, and 2018 midterm election).
Happy Thanksgiving
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| Vova and his Nice Kitty |
And then, the storm broke. Like a tsunami wave, the shrieks and screams reached a crescendo across the globe. Members of the US Congress wailed like banshees, asserting that his appointment would lead to the demise of law and order worldwide. "This must not happen", they said. The chorus was taken up in Europe and poor old Prokopchuk saw the handwriting on the wall. While he didn't withdraw his name, no nameplates were cut and replaced on the doors at HQ. The mere thought of a Russyan as head of INTERPOL sent legions of police and security personnel directly to the pharmacia where they loaded up on antacids, bicarb of soda, Pepto(strong version), and maybe some Prilosec. Can you imagine?
Jumping into the fray was American businessman and Kremlin target, Bill Browder. We've written about Bill in the past and we've reviewed his book about his experiences in Russya dealing with the kleptocracy that formed there after the fall of the old, old, old Soviet Union, Uncle Joe's creation. Mr. Browder's lawyer, Sergei Magnitsky even gave his name to a law passed in US Congress, called the Magnitsky Act, that gave the US the powers to hold Russyans responsible for criminal acts against dissenters by banning them from travel to the US, and banning them from doing business(banking, etc.) with any US company or bank. And it's working! It's been a boon to the US diplomatic effort to deal with a rogue state and its perps.(Medvedev, Putin, etc.). Mr. Browder correctly warned in media statements that having a Russyan at the helm of the organization would place the lives of ex-pat Russyans who were critical of Putin and the Kremlin in jeopardy. (see Skripal story). Mr. Browder himself, living in London, cannot travel to Russya without fear of being arrested. Russya even had Interpol notified that he's been charged in Moscova as a criminal(tax evasion). Hard to believe these antics are still going on in 2018, but they are.
Combine this story with recent revelations that R ussyan hackers are actively working to subvert the West with a massive disinformation campaign to sow fear and uncertainty among the populations.
See 2016 US presidential election, and 2018 midterm election).
Happy Thanksgiving
Tuesday, November 20, 2018
Sad Day in Argentina
It was formally announced in Argentina that the Argentine Navy submarine that has been missing for a year has been found. The hull was discovered by searchers using remote controlled robotic submersibles in 3000' of water, lying on the bottom, intact. 44 crewmen were on board at the time it disappeared on a routine training patrol as it returned from the vicinity of the Falkland Islands.
Families who lost loved ones were notified privately by the government. Their wait is over, and now they can grieve for those lost at sea. An investigation has begun on the cause of the disaster.
Families who lost loved ones were notified privately by the government. Their wait is over, and now they can grieve for those lost at sea. An investigation has begun on the cause of the disaster.
INTERPOL Election Tomorrow
All the countries associated with INTERPOL, the international police agency, will vote tomorrow for a new president. In October, the last president disappeared, more or less. The Chinese gentleman who held the post went home for a visit. He then failed to return and didn't leave messages for his office staff. Seems odd. But wait. After a delay of several days, the Chinese Communists announced that he had been arrested and detained for certain "crimes"(usually taking bribes, drinking bourbon, soliciting wild women, and the like). The INTERPOL organization was informed that he would not be returning to his post. So, the Secretary General of the organization announced a search for a presidential candidate. A flood of names was soon seen at headquarters: some names submitted:
Woody Woodpecker; Charley Brown; Boris Johnson; Sarkozy of France; Donald Duck; Mickey Mouse; Jacob Zuma; Jerry Brown; Elvis; Elton JOhn; Otis Redding; Link Ray; Michael Bloomberg; janet Neopolitano; Chris Christie; James Comey( a real possibility!); Sarah Palin; Al Franken;
and Al Sharpton.
But to nobody's surprise, the Kremlin is promoting one of its own. Can you imagine: a Russyan as head of INTERPOL? We 'd have to put all poisons around the world under armed guard 24/7 with orders to shoot-to-kill all trespassers. Even the suggestion of such an election is enough to cause convulsive laughter around the globe.
I won't make any predictions the night before the election, but: with Turkey Day fast approaching, don't be surprised if a REAL turkey shows up in the INTERPOL presidential suite on FRIDAY, aka Black Friday.
Note: if the election computer gets hacked, who will approve the results?
Woody Woodpecker; Charley Brown; Boris Johnson; Sarkozy of France; Donald Duck; Mickey Mouse; Jacob Zuma; Jerry Brown; Elvis; Elton JOhn; Otis Redding; Link Ray; Michael Bloomberg; janet Neopolitano; Chris Christie; James Comey( a real possibility!); Sarah Palin; Al Franken;
and Al Sharpton.
But to nobody's surprise, the Kremlin is promoting one of its own. Can you imagine: a Russyan as head of INTERPOL? We 'd have to put all poisons around the world under armed guard 24/7 with orders to shoot-to-kill all trespassers. Even the suggestion of such an election is enough to cause convulsive laughter around the globe.
I won't make any predictions the night before the election, but: with Turkey Day fast approaching, don't be surprised if a REAL turkey shows up in the INTERPOL presidential suite on FRIDAY, aka Black Friday.
Note: if the election computer gets hacked, who will approve the results?
BREXIT: Can Theresa May Pull it Off?
With a divided Parliament, a divided population, and a rigid EU, PM Theresa May of the UK is on the verge of cementing a deal for the exit of Britain from the EU. With a deadline for the exit appraoching, time is running out. She must have enough votes in Parliament to have it approved or the deal reverts to whatever the EU decides to hand the country. It has proved to be the most controversial topic since the formation of the EU itself. The Conservative Party of Ms. May has proven to be not much of a support for her position. After drafting a 500+ page plan, the Party has been divided among the exit group and the no-exit group.
World opinion is running against an UK exit, believing it is a wrong-headed move.
World opinion is running against an UK exit, believing it is a wrong-headed move.
Monday Night Football Record
It was expected to be a shootout: Kansas City Chiefs v. Los Angeles Rams at Los Angeles. It did not disappoint and it proved to be an amazing game in all respects. Not only was there more than enough action, but also a never ending supply of twists and turns before the clock finally ran out as the LA Rams eked out an improbable victory.
The game was seen as a contest between two very young quarterbacks: Patrick Mahomes, age 23, of the Chiefs, and Jerrod Goff(age 24), of the Rams. These two young men started the game, both with high expectations. Over the course of 4 quarters, these two entertained the LA home crowd with high quality skills and unanticipated events that created an up and down cycle of emotions among the spectators. Several turnovers were followed by scoring, changing the lead in seconds. Whether a fumble, an interception, or a takeaway, the efforts were caught on camera for all to see again and again.
The "new" NFL was on display for all the country to observe. Defense? What defense? In the highest scoring Monday Night Football game(of 793 games), these two teams never quit. Score on Me? I'll be right back at you with another touchdown. Not content with field goals, these coaches and quarterbacks went for it on 4th down. They didn't look for 1 or 2 yards, they wanted big gains; they wanted to pressure the opponents relentlessly. And they did. One series after another. In the 4th quarter alone, there were five lead changes. Just when you thought the game was out of reach, a long pass changed the entire complexion of the tilt. Pass receivers made their own contributions by catching the ball with circus catches: one-handed affairs that looked impossible.
Coach McVay of the Rams was caught up in the emotions of the game and could not hide his delight as his team responded to Chief's scoring with aggressive offense that added more points for his team. Coach Andy Reid of the Chiefs had his own formula for victory that came up just short. His late 4th quarter efforts almost brought victory only to be lost in the last 3 minutes as QB Mahomes threw 2 interceptions to end the effort.
One of the great games of the past few years. This was something the NFL sorely needed this late in the season. Jerrod Goff is a California native from Novato, California. He looks like he could be the next Joe Montana.
The game was seen as a contest between two very young quarterbacks: Patrick Mahomes, age 23, of the Chiefs, and Jerrod Goff(age 24), of the Rams. These two young men started the game, both with high expectations. Over the course of 4 quarters, these two entertained the LA home crowd with high quality skills and unanticipated events that created an up and down cycle of emotions among the spectators. Several turnovers were followed by scoring, changing the lead in seconds. Whether a fumble, an interception, or a takeaway, the efforts were caught on camera for all to see again and again.
The "new" NFL was on display for all the country to observe. Defense? What defense? In the highest scoring Monday Night Football game(of 793 games), these two teams never quit. Score on Me? I'll be right back at you with another touchdown. Not content with field goals, these coaches and quarterbacks went for it on 4th down. They didn't look for 1 or 2 yards, they wanted big gains; they wanted to pressure the opponents relentlessly. And they did. One series after another. In the 4th quarter alone, there were five lead changes. Just when you thought the game was out of reach, a long pass changed the entire complexion of the tilt. Pass receivers made their own contributions by catching the ball with circus catches: one-handed affairs that looked impossible.
Coach McVay of the Rams was caught up in the emotions of the game and could not hide his delight as his team responded to Chief's scoring with aggressive offense that added more points for his team. Coach Andy Reid of the Chiefs had his own formula for victory that came up just short. His late 4th quarter efforts almost brought victory only to be lost in the last 3 minutes as QB Mahomes threw 2 interceptions to end the effort.
One of the great games of the past few years. This was something the NFL sorely needed this late in the season. Jerrod Goff is a California native from Novato, California. He looks like he could be the next Joe Montana.
Monday, November 19, 2018
Otto Fuchs: Part II-Hot Metal
 |
| Shaping the Red Hot Billet of Titanium |
The camera holder is standing at a safe distance, but even at this distance(about 90') the heat cab be felt like a hot day at the beach. This piece was eventually halved by a compression blade that cut through the billet as though it was "hot butter". On the right edge of the photo is one of the insulated cloaks used by workers in the vicinity of the operation(s) to protect against the effect of radiant heat from the super heated piece of titanium.
It won't be long before this piece finds its way to Seattle where it will be installed on a Boeing "DreamLiner".
Thank you, Otto.
Sunday, November 18, 2018
American Football Coach in Jail in China
Wendell Brown, a former player at Ball State University, has been sentenced to 4 years in prison in China. He was involved in a bar fight, arrested, and tried in a Chinese court on various charges stemming with his encounter with locals at a bar. His lawyers, court appointed, defended him, but the judge handed down the 4 year sentence. He has been held in a temporary detention center in a cell with approximately 20 other detainees/prisoners. The conditions of his detention border on cruel and unusual. There are no beds provided for any of the prisoners in the cell. They have bamboo mats of some type. There's not much room for all prisoners to bed down at night. There's no heat; some type of jackets are provided at night fall. Half of the space is open to the outside environment. Depending on your position in the cell when the sun goes down, determines your resting place for the night.
Mr. Brown lost his appeal for a reduction in the sentence. He has served over two years already. He remains positive about his situation and is resolved to endure his plight as best he can. It is a sad state of affairs as his family is unable to visit for financial reasons. After the judge's decision recently, he was allowed a conversation with his Mother and other family. US media outlets have reported on his situation, but have not kept up with recent developments. There appears to be a certain amount of racism in evidence concerning those who filed the charges against him. Apparently, locals are not fond of American sportsmen who maintain a local residence. Mr. Brown mentions this situation as aggravating and uncomfortable. Sadly, in light of how the Chinese Government treat their own citizens, such treatment of outsiders is not difficult to understand. (See Uighurs Detention).
Hopefully, the US Government will stay on the case and assist Mr. Brown and his family as much as possible. His case underscores the precarious conditions in China as they relate to all foreigners.
A word to the wise.
Mr. Brown lost his appeal for a reduction in the sentence. He has served over two years already. He remains positive about his situation and is resolved to endure his plight as best he can. It is a sad state of affairs as his family is unable to visit for financial reasons. After the judge's decision recently, he was allowed a conversation with his Mother and other family. US media outlets have reported on his situation, but have not kept up with recent developments. There appears to be a certain amount of racism in evidence concerning those who filed the charges against him. Apparently, locals are not fond of American sportsmen who maintain a local residence. Mr. Brown mentions this situation as aggravating and uncomfortable. Sadly, in light of how the Chinese Government treat their own citizens, such treatment of outsiders is not difficult to understand. (See Uighurs Detention).
Hopefully, the US Government will stay on the case and assist Mr. Brown and his family as much as possible. His case underscores the precarious conditions in China as they relate to all foreigners.
A word to the wise.
Saturday, November 17, 2018
C.I.A. Says Crown Prince Salman of Saudi Arabia Ordered Murder of Journalist
Well, well, well. Now we have intercepted messages between the Crown Prince and his staff before Jamal Khashoggi was murdered in the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey. Apparently, instructions were given to lure the journalist to the consulate under a pretext of administrative necessity. The 18 aides were then dispatched to Turkey to carry out the orders from the palace of the Crown Prince. So, it seems, the various clumsy press releases that have been floated by the Crown Prince have no basis in fact. It's always been a test of the world's gullibility. No matter what story they told, each and every one was a laugher. They said things that a 5-year old would tell his mother.
"Are you kidding me?" has been the response, generally. The Turkish government has sources inside the consulate and they have provided enough information to discredit all the fabrications floated by the Saudis. The Crown prince is obviously living in a dream world of his own creation. His inexperience and his isolation from world events underscores the sad situation as it relates to events in the Middle East, and the Arabian Peninsula in particular. The U.S. Government is attempting to move the Saudis to end the war in Yemen that threatens to be a human catastrophe of immense proportions.
Perhaps the Court in the Hague will get involved. Perhaps charges will be filed against the Crown Prince. Now we have charges of murder against 5 Saudis who were present in Turkey at the Saudi Consulate when the journalist, Jamal Khashoggi, disappeared. Where is the body? Hmmmmmmm. Who knows where the body ended up after it was removed from the consulate and flown back to Riyadh to show the Crown that in fact the deed had been carried out according to orders. Maybe the Saudis think the world will be satisfied with 5 agents being tried and convicted of murder. I think not. No doubt, the Saudis will continue to feed tidbits of legal action that may trick media types into believing they have solved the "mystery". Ha, ha, ha, ha. What a pathetic country! What a pathetic government! What a pathetic culture! Oil-take it away and what do you have? A sad, 3rd world country stuck in the 17th Century, trying without success to make progress in a world leaving them behind at a record pace. Next thing you know they will start making deals with the Chinese.
Beijing(X.JP.) will come in and start building things. Next thing you know, the Chinese will own the oil wells, their goal(s) all along. Oh, well(ha).
Good luck King Salman: you had a choice, and you made the WRONG choice. Of all your direct descendants, you had to pick HIM? Really? There's still time: dump HIM now and save your country from 5 generations of contempt.
"Are you kidding me?" has been the response, generally. The Turkish government has sources inside the consulate and they have provided enough information to discredit all the fabrications floated by the Saudis. The Crown prince is obviously living in a dream world of his own creation. His inexperience and his isolation from world events underscores the sad situation as it relates to events in the Middle East, and the Arabian Peninsula in particular. The U.S. Government is attempting to move the Saudis to end the war in Yemen that threatens to be a human catastrophe of immense proportions.
Perhaps the Court in the Hague will get involved. Perhaps charges will be filed against the Crown Prince. Now we have charges of murder against 5 Saudis who were present in Turkey at the Saudi Consulate when the journalist, Jamal Khashoggi, disappeared. Where is the body? Hmmmmmmm. Who knows where the body ended up after it was removed from the consulate and flown back to Riyadh to show the Crown that in fact the deed had been carried out according to orders. Maybe the Saudis think the world will be satisfied with 5 agents being tried and convicted of murder. I think not. No doubt, the Saudis will continue to feed tidbits of legal action that may trick media types into believing they have solved the "mystery". Ha, ha, ha, ha. What a pathetic country! What a pathetic government! What a pathetic culture! Oil-take it away and what do you have? A sad, 3rd world country stuck in the 17th Century, trying without success to make progress in a world leaving them behind at a record pace. Next thing you know they will start making deals with the Chinese.
Beijing(X.JP.) will come in and start building things. Next thing you know, the Chinese will own the oil wells, their goal(s) all along. Oh, well(ha).
Good luck King Salman: you had a choice, and you made the WRONG choice. Of all your direct descendants, you had to pick HIM? Really? There's still time: dump HIM now and save your country from 5 generations of contempt.
Valley Smoke Conditions
The Mayor had to go down the hill yesterday; it was difficult, to say the least. Smoke conditions were horrific. Air quality index numbers spelled out the scene: Very Unhealthy for all citizens. The Camp Fire that has destroyed the city of Paradise, California has filled the northern California atmosphere with smoke, threatening the health of all local inhabitants. Fortunately for Tahoma residents, the prevailing winds have kept the smoke out of the Tahoe Basin. We should be thankful. Many valley inhabitants are wearing masks, recommended by health professionals. Young children and older folks have been advised to stay indoors unless it is absolutely necessary to go out.
Cal Fire has announced that the fire is now 50% contained. They also reported that over 1000 residents are unaccounted for and 63 victims have been identified among the dead. The fire is now the worst in California's history.
Cal Fire has announced that the fire is now 50% contained. They also reported that over 1000 residents are unaccounted for and 63 victims have been identified among the dead. The fire is now the worst in California's history.
Putin Critic Wins in Court
The great Russyan hero, Aleksei A. Navalny, has been absolved of wrongdoing by the Europe's top human rights court. In a rare finding, the top court ruled that a government has abused its powers with political intent. Observers called the decision an embarrassment for the Kremlin. It was only the 11th time in the Court's 60 year history that it found abuse of power by a government.
For most of the years of Mr. Putin's reign, critics have been subject to abuse by the government. This abuse comes in many forms: arrests, confinement, criminal investigations, family and personal harassment, derogatory public statements, and invasion of privacy, among others.
The Court ordered the Kremlin to pay Mr. Navalny 63,678 Euros or about $72,000 in compensation and legal fees. Over many years, Mr. Navalny has been arrested dozens of times, once merely for walking down a street. This action brings the case under the control of the European Convention on Human Rights. Based in Strasbourg, it was founded in 1959 to enforce compliance of post war agreements.
Essentially, the Court ordered the Kremlin into compliance by stating that the Kremlin "has been lying" about the reasons for arrests, according to Jeffrey D. Kahn, a lawyer at Southern Methodist University Law School and an authority on the European Court of Human Rights. In October, 10,950 allegations were on the docket against Russya, more than any other country. Russya has stopped paying dues and may soon withdraw from the Court. This will further alienate the country from the West.
For most of the years of Mr. Putin's reign, critics have been subject to abuse by the government. This abuse comes in many forms: arrests, confinement, criminal investigations, family and personal harassment, derogatory public statements, and invasion of privacy, among others.
The Court ordered the Kremlin to pay Mr. Navalny 63,678 Euros or about $72,000 in compensation and legal fees. Over many years, Mr. Navalny has been arrested dozens of times, once merely for walking down a street. This action brings the case under the control of the European Convention on Human Rights. Based in Strasbourg, it was founded in 1959 to enforce compliance of post war agreements.
Essentially, the Court ordered the Kremlin into compliance by stating that the Kremlin "has been lying" about the reasons for arrests, according to Jeffrey D. Kahn, a lawyer at Southern Methodist University Law School and an authority on the European Court of Human Rights. In October, 10,950 allegations were on the docket against Russya, more than any other country. Russya has stopped paying dues and may soon withdraw from the Court. This will further alienate the country from the West.
Wednesday, November 14, 2018
Putin Scared of Oil Price Drop
So, too much oil in the market. OPEC ready to dissolve. America pumping more than ever. Iran ready to take a dive off the market diving board.
Need Propane?
So, winter has been delayed this season. But then, the price of oil has plummeted. Along with that price drop is the drop in the price of propane. Propane heats Tahoe residents on both sides of the lake. Yesterday, the retail price dropped to $.70/gallon. How much are you paying? When ordering, don't settle for the first price quoted. Tell the slug on the phone that the price is much lower than a month ago. Shop around, call everybody; call anybody. Don't pay outrageous prices anymore. Don't feed the fuel beast.
Monday, November 12, 2018
Turkey Releases Recordings of Khashoggi Murder
Keeping pressure on crown prince Salman, nominal ruler of saudi arabia, Recep Erdogan of Turkey has distributed copies of the recordings of what happened inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul the day of the murder of Jamal Khashoggi after he entered the building to pickup papers related to his impending marriage to a Turkish citizen. The recordings have not made it to social media yet but people around the world anticipate the release shortly. This will end all the smoke and mirrors used by the government in Riyadh to obscure the horrific details of the state sponsored killing of a journalist who openly criticized the leadership of the Saudi government. This was not supposed to happen in broad daylight, but the Turkish intelligence services did an outstanding job exposing the plot hatched by the Saudi leader crown prince salman.
This despicable tyrant needs his hand slapped and should be replaced by his father. However, the father is aware that his options are limited, and undestands the meaning of PATRICIDE.
Soon, those countries dependent on oil will have to acknowledge that they are dealoing with immoral murderers when they deal with the saudis. These backward former bedouins are hardly able to enter the civilized world. They cling to traditions that have long been abandoned even by the Russyans and the Chinese. Africa is another story.
The world waits for details and they should be released soon. The reults should send a message to saudi Arabia: enough.
This despicable tyrant needs his hand slapped and should be replaced by his father. However, the father is aware that his options are limited, and undestands the meaning of PATRICIDE.
Soon, those countries dependent on oil will have to acknowledge that they are dealoing with immoral murderers when they deal with the saudis. These backward former bedouins are hardly able to enter the civilized world. They cling to traditions that have long been abandoned even by the Russyans and the Chinese. Africa is another story.
The world waits for details and they should be released soon. The reults should send a message to saudi Arabia: enough.
The 11th Hour on the 11th Day of the 11th Month
Formerly known as Armistice Day, Veterans Day, the 11th day of November, marks the anniversary of the end of Word War I, the War to End All Wars. Not. It has been 100 years since the end of that European catastrophe that decimated the populations of the UK, of France, of Belgium, of Italy, of Russya, and of Austria, and Turkey, and the Middle East. It is now acknowledged as the lead up to World War II. So, we mourn its millions of victims, both military and civilian. The ghastly scenes are viewed in shock and awe as primitive versions of now familiar weaponry looked somehow like toys made by mad men. Well, they were made by mad men.
In Europe, in the European Union, commemorative events mark the day. Orange Head from the White House made it to France for one ceremony but didn't attend due to the weather. Sad that this fool represents the entire United States. Perhaps in 2020 sanity will return to a more thoughtful nation and a responsible party will be elected. It could happen, but..........
HAPPY VETERANS DAY or better yet: pray for all veterans.
In Europe, in the European Union, commemorative events mark the day. Orange Head from the White House made it to France for one ceremony but didn't attend due to the weather. Sad that this fool represents the entire United States. Perhaps in 2020 sanity will return to a more thoughtful nation and a responsible party will be elected. It could happen, but..........
HAPPY VETERANS DAY or better yet: pray for all veterans.
What Happened In Paradise?
Paradise, California: a foothill town that occupies a ridge top that overlooks the northern section of the Sacramento Valley. This town of 27,000 residents enjoys warm days over the heat of the valley found in its neighbor, Chico, which is bisected by the Sacramento River. Chico is a college town, home of Chico State University. The students are a presence on the local landscape. But not many make it up the hill to Paradise. Not muchthere for the under 25 crowd. Paradise has a few chain restaurants, some shopping, and mostly those necessities for the retired life.
The wildfire that has transformed this formerly vibrant community has destroyed the town, reducing almost 7,000 structures to smoking rubble. More than 30 citizens have died in the inferno and many more are missing. PG&E appears to again have been culpable as power lines are suspected to have been the source of the fire. Evacuation orders came too late for the dead, and Cal Fire appears to have been late to the game. Despite budget improvements, CalFire does not seem up to the job. A new, national fire service is in order-now.
The Grand Toady in the White House says the California forests are mismanaged. This could be an understatement. As another fire in Southern california terrorizes the coastal city of Malibu, the Governor -Elect Gavin Newsom will soon have his spin doctors spewing verbal garbage to reassure the terrorized citizenry. Poor Gavin, so much work to be done, too little skills in his possession. Time will tell how Paradise will recover, but if the City of Santa Rosa in Sonoma County is any example, it will be a long, long time before any real recovery takes place near Chico.
The wildfire that has transformed this formerly vibrant community has destroyed the town, reducing almost 7,000 structures to smoking rubble. More than 30 citizens have died in the inferno and many more are missing. PG&E appears to again have been culpable as power lines are suspected to have been the source of the fire. Evacuation orders came too late for the dead, and Cal Fire appears to have been late to the game. Despite budget improvements, CalFire does not seem up to the job. A new, national fire service is in order-now.
The Grand Toady in the White House says the California forests are mismanaged. This could be an understatement. As another fire in Southern california terrorizes the coastal city of Malibu, the Governor -Elect Gavin Newsom will soon have his spin doctors spewing verbal garbage to reassure the terrorized citizenry. Poor Gavin, so much work to be done, too little skills in his possession. Time will tell how Paradise will recover, but if the City of Santa Rosa in Sonoma County is any example, it will be a long, long time before any real recovery takes place near Chico.
Friday, November 9, 2018
California FIRE Season: NOT OVER
The CAMP FIRE as it is called has notified all residents in the state that winter is not here yet. The town of Paradise, in Butte county, has been mostly destroyed by wind-whipped flames that roared out of the hills to the east and rolled down the mountain with nothing to stop it. Locals fled for their lives. CalFIre has stated that no amount of effort has been able to contain the flames. Thousands of structures, including homes, have been destroyed. Many lives have been lost. Reporting has been spotty, as few journalists have been able to approach the blaze.
More later
More later
Former Treasury Official Calls Out China
Henry Paulson, noted banker, economist, and political appointee, spoke out at an economic forum about China and today's global economy. He noted that since the Chinese joined the WTO 17 years ago, the country has continued to violate many of the provisions agreed to upon their entry into the organization. He stated unequivocally that this action(s) are unacceptable in today's global business world. He highlighted China's efforts to disregard intellectual property rights, the continuation of theft of trade secrets, and the many obstacles placed in front of US companies wishing to do business in China.
This comes on the heels of indictments against Chinese nationals in the US who have not registered as agents of foreign governments as required. These are officers in the PLA-the Peoples Liberation Army, also known as the Chinese Army. These individuals pursue scientific research under the guise od being researchers instead of the actual role as corporate spies working on behalf of the Communist Party whose leader5s have effectively ordered the theft of US intellectual property by any and every means possible without regard to treaty or stated government policy. This action comes at a time of intense debate about China's role in the world economy, and her efforts to stretch her influence globally, especially in Africa and East Asia. Her naval fleet continues to expand its influence in the South China Sea which could probably use a name change. Perhaps the geographers of the world could come up with a new name, rather than have China wield authority over each rock and ripple in the neighborhood.
See the insert in yesterday's NY Times- a propaganda piece intended to deflect criticisms of China's trade policies and her actions related to same. No doubt, the effort is made to alter US perceptions of China, which we will not until this neighborhood bully starts to act like a responsible partner as opposed to someone like the PLO.
This comes on the heels of indictments against Chinese nationals in the US who have not registered as agents of foreign governments as required. These are officers in the PLA-the Peoples Liberation Army, also known as the Chinese Army. These individuals pursue scientific research under the guise od being researchers instead of the actual role as corporate spies working on behalf of the Communist Party whose leader5s have effectively ordered the theft of US intellectual property by any and every means possible without regard to treaty or stated government policy. This action comes at a time of intense debate about China's role in the world economy, and her efforts to stretch her influence globally, especially in Africa and East Asia. Her naval fleet continues to expand its influence in the South China Sea which could probably use a name change. Perhaps the geographers of the world could come up with a new name, rather than have China wield authority over each rock and ripple in the neighborhood.
See the insert in yesterday's NY Times- a propaganda piece intended to deflect criticisms of China's trade policies and her actions related to same. No doubt, the effort is made to alter US perceptions of China, which we will not until this neighborhood bully starts to act like a responsible partner as opposed to someone like the PLO.
Monday, November 5, 2018
New York Times Addresses Yemen and the Saudi War
While the world has been focused on the murder of Jamal Khashoggi at the saudi Consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, the war in Yemen continues apace. The world watches as the prospect of mass starvation looms over the civilian population. Rebels continue to offer resistance and the saudi led military forces bomb targets without concern for civilians or children or property of any value. The saudis are locked in a regional conflict that has exposed them to international criticism. On top of the murder of the journalist(a Saudi himself), the world wonders what is happening in Riyadh. Has the Family of the House of Saud began its decline into chaos? Has the heir apparent signaled his inept methods? Have his advisors gone off the rails? All of these possibilities have surfaced and created many new concerns by those countries that depend on oil for their economies. Many have begun to look for alternatives and Iranian oil is not one of them as new sanctions on Iran has crippled that country's ability to market its oil.
So, the world watches and waits.
So, the world watches and waits.
Midterm Elections: California and El Dorado County
Tomorrow we have elections across the country. Involved are positions from governorships to Senate seats to House seats. Pundits are making big of this election because it appears that the voter turnout could be a record for the midterm. Pres. Thrump is on the stump, providing fodder for all the media. Pollsters are lying low, not wishing to poison the well. They usually have a bucket of predictions but in this toxic environment, they are keeping their information under wraps.
Whether one lives on either coast or in the heartland, the election has the possibility of creating a new situation in Congress: a split Congress with one or the other chamber yielding control to the other party(Dems), or both chambers giving up Republican control, or the Republicans maintaining control for another two years. Many candidates are newcomers, many more are women, getting out of the role of mere voter to the role of candidate. It could mark another resurgence of woomen in Congress.
Many local issues are also being decided; many taxes will be added or subtracted, raised or lowered, seldom eliminated. Many voters are weary of fake news, false positioning by various extremist groups, but, undaunted, they will vote their conscious. Hopefully, a large turnout will provide a good result. The more voters, the better the result.
Polls open locally at 7am for some, 8am for most. Get your ballots in; a mail in ballot can be dropped off at your polling station.
Please vote. Think about how you want to live where you live.
Whether one lives on either coast or in the heartland, the election has the possibility of creating a new situation in Congress: a split Congress with one or the other chamber yielding control to the other party(Dems), or both chambers giving up Republican control, or the Republicans maintaining control for another two years. Many candidates are newcomers, many more are women, getting out of the role of mere voter to the role of candidate. It could mark another resurgence of woomen in Congress.
Many local issues are also being decided; many taxes will be added or subtracted, raised or lowered, seldom eliminated. Many voters are weary of fake news, false positioning by various extremist groups, but, undaunted, they will vote their conscious. Hopefully, a large turnout will provide a good result. The more voters, the better the result.
Polls open locally at 7am for some, 8am for most. Get your ballots in; a mail in ballot can be dropped off at your polling station.
Please vote. Think about how you want to live where you live.
Book Review: The Billion Dollar Spy
The old conflict known as "The Cold War", an ideological struggle between the world's super powers, provided endless stories to fuel innumerable novels to feed insatiable demand. The "Cold War" began shortly after WW II when Stalin's policies on Eastern Europe directly opposed those of the US and her allies, collectively found among the nations that formed NATO. While the US and its intelligence gathering arm(s) began their efforts well after the Soviet Union, they learned quickly once it was known what Stalin was up to around the world.
While many of the novels had a basis in facts, the more interesting writers incorporated first hand experience with lively imagination, both in plot and character. It's widely considered that "truth is stranger than fiction", and in the case of the "Billion Dollar Spy", it holds true. In the decade before the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Russyan secret service, aka the K.G.B., waged a relentless campaign against the West and NATO, and also against her own citizens. While the C.I.A. performed intel gathering abroad, domestic affairs are handled by the FBI, the KGB SPIES ON EVERYBODY.
So, in the late 70's, an employee of the American Embassy in MOscova was contacted by a Russyan citizen, leaving a note saying he possessed information of a technical nature that would be of interest to the United States. Thus began the story of spy craft in the late 20th century. The Russyan, Mr. Kohlhachov, was an engineer working in the research area of airborne radar systems. This area was of interest to all nations developing advanced systems and advanced defenses against the same systems. The author made extensive use of interviews, archival research, recently declassified documents, and on the ground study of the environment. The case went forward for several years despite a slow start. As expected, the C.I.A. was very cautious, knowing the K.G.B. is adept at planting false stories and false informants. After extensive vetting, an agreement was made with the engineer, and his information began to flow directly to the US technical systems developers. He is called the 'Billion Dollar' spy because he alone saved the US billions of dollars in research and development costs at a time when budget constraints on the Pentagon were severe. As the case progressed, engineers were able to uncover the goals of Russyan airborne radar systems at the current state of conditions. Thus, the US Dept of Defense was able to change direction of research and take advantage of this top secret material.
Operating in the Moscova environment means that all agents, on both sides play the game: everybody is watched all the time, and rarely can one escape the constant observers. However, over time, professionals learn the weaknesses of the other side, and take advantage of them. They operate along the "seams", those areas least observed. Thus, informants and their information gets passed to the other side.
At the same time, a disgruntled new employee of the C.I.A. decided to turn against the US for revenge. Having read some of the secret information from the Moscova Embassy, he was able to provide enough information to the K.G.B. that compromised the leak. Mr. Kohlkachov was caught and executed in Russya. The ex-agent was spirited to Russya and died there years later.
It's a gripping story, and the author keeps the narrative moving, describing dead drops, disguises, letters, phone calls, plans that go awry, and the cash payoffs. He also shines some light on the methods of spy craft before the age of cell phones, cyber security, and hacking attacks that we are all aware of today. It was a simpler time in the late 80's and 90's. The technology has changed but the people involved are the same old players, excepting now the head of the KGB heads the largest country in the world.
I highly recommend this story for all those interested in international relations, especially as Russya becomes more assertive in its attempt to shake its murderous past.
5 Stars *****
avail. in paperback on Amazon
While many of the novels had a basis in facts, the more interesting writers incorporated first hand experience with lively imagination, both in plot and character. It's widely considered that "truth is stranger than fiction", and in the case of the "Billion Dollar Spy", it holds true. In the decade before the collapse of the Soviet Union, the Russyan secret service, aka the K.G.B., waged a relentless campaign against the West and NATO, and also against her own citizens. While the C.I.A. performed intel gathering abroad, domestic affairs are handled by the FBI, the KGB SPIES ON EVERYBODY.
So, in the late 70's, an employee of the American Embassy in MOscova was contacted by a Russyan citizen, leaving a note saying he possessed information of a technical nature that would be of interest to the United States. Thus began the story of spy craft in the late 20th century. The Russyan, Mr. Kohlhachov, was an engineer working in the research area of airborne radar systems. This area was of interest to all nations developing advanced systems and advanced defenses against the same systems. The author made extensive use of interviews, archival research, recently declassified documents, and on the ground study of the environment. The case went forward for several years despite a slow start. As expected, the C.I.A. was very cautious, knowing the K.G.B. is adept at planting false stories and false informants. After extensive vetting, an agreement was made with the engineer, and his information began to flow directly to the US technical systems developers. He is called the 'Billion Dollar' spy because he alone saved the US billions of dollars in research and development costs at a time when budget constraints on the Pentagon were severe. As the case progressed, engineers were able to uncover the goals of Russyan airborne radar systems at the current state of conditions. Thus, the US Dept of Defense was able to change direction of research and take advantage of this top secret material.
Operating in the Moscova environment means that all agents, on both sides play the game: everybody is watched all the time, and rarely can one escape the constant observers. However, over time, professionals learn the weaknesses of the other side, and take advantage of them. They operate along the "seams", those areas least observed. Thus, informants and their information gets passed to the other side.
At the same time, a disgruntled new employee of the C.I.A. decided to turn against the US for revenge. Having read some of the secret information from the Moscova Embassy, he was able to provide enough information to the K.G.B. that compromised the leak. Mr. Kohlkachov was caught and executed in Russya. The ex-agent was spirited to Russya and died there years later.
It's a gripping story, and the author keeps the narrative moving, describing dead drops, disguises, letters, phone calls, plans that go awry, and the cash payoffs. He also shines some light on the methods of spy craft before the age of cell phones, cyber security, and hacking attacks that we are all aware of today. It was a simpler time in the late 80's and 90's. The technology has changed but the people involved are the same old players, excepting now the head of the KGB heads the largest country in the world.
I highly recommend this story for all those interested in international relations, especially as Russya becomes more assertive in its attempt to shake its murderous past.
5 Stars *****
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