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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