A U.S. Senate report was released recently that contained the results of an 8 month investigation into the activities of an international body run by the Chinese government. This organization goes by the name of the Confucious Institute. It is found in over 500 locations around the world. It supposes to teach language and culture in host countries from grades 1 through 12(elementary school through high school). It is also known as Hanban, a shortening of its name.
This organization is an arm of the Chinese government. It actually pays host institutions certain fees to establish courses on campus for those interested students who wish to learn about the Asian giant, the world's second largest economy. Two US universities have accepted over $158 millions of dollars over the last few years. Senators have been advised by the intelligence community that this scheme run by Beijing is nothing more than a subversive operation whose goals is to gather information and secrets while ensconced in the middle of academia.
This operation is baldly attempting to facilitate the goals of the Beijing government to subvert foreign adversaries by using the cape of deception that covers the true goal: domination of rivals. The committee advises certain departments of the federal government to reject this organization and its methods from infiltration of those campuses on which it has been allowed to operate without interruption for years.
These US organizations are doing it for the money, no less. Topics not discussed are lengthy and as expected: no talk of human rights abuses; no talk of trade policies favoring China over rivals; no talk of South China Sea aggression; no talk of Uighur concentration camps; no talk of foreign kidnapping of former Chinese citizens; no talk of persecution of Christians; no talk of support of North Korea; no talk of agreements with Russya over military sales; and no talk of yielding on US demands for trade balances.
Time will tell if any action will result from these findings. The University of California, which has several campuses that have large Asian student populations, may find it unpalatable to send the Confucious instructors packing and losing the money. But, it could happen. Just wait. And see.
Thursday, February 28, 2019
Thursday, February 21, 2019
Russya, The Kremlin, and Garbage
As you know, most large cities around the world produce garbage-tons of it everyday. Health rules dictate that it be removed and disposed of remotely, at a safe distance from the population, or bad things happen. The list of bad things is too long to mention; but it is safe to say, the farther away, the better.
Moskova is a large city, perched in a western corner of the country loosely called "The Federation." This country puts much of its resources into Moskova, it is said to glitter(perhaps from ice crystals). Its large population, like its peers, produces tons of refuse everyday. It must be removed, and it is, by organized collectors, who, despite freezing weather, heavy snow and ice, lengthy nights and short days, go about their business with credible efficiency. (no piles of debris in the city).
Now Moskova has been around for centuries, and debris has been removed with various degrees of certainty, depending on methods available at the time. These days, experts have combined to make the process very efficient: a single man/woman operates a truck that moves at a steady pace as its robot arms shift loads from street containers directly to the motorized collectors. Very nice, if not necessarily quiet. From the street to the landfill can take some time depending on the location of the site. And there in, lies the modern problem: where do we put the landfill?
How about Siberia? Brilliant. Siberia is a big place. Not too long ago, Tzars used it to relocate dissidents and undesirables. Why not garbage? Aren't they about the same? Let's have a look. So, the Kremlinistas sent out their lackies to find just the right site: not too close, yet not too far-just right.
What did they find?
They found a small town in the forest with a population of about 5 thousand hearty souls. The town is called URDOMA, which translated means "near a river or stream". It snows a lot here, but the locals like it. It used to be the site of a gulag prison, founded by the prisoners who were dumped here. It is in the state of Arkhangelsk, not too far from Finland, Russya's nervous neighbor to the west. Locals have formed a group to oppose the Kremlin's plans. This group, called CLEAN URDOMA, is spearheading an effort to ban trash dumping in their town. Sergei Yakimov, the lawyer for the group, says the Kremlin has priorities wrong: instead of financing recycling efforts, the Kremlin spends on appearances to fool the rest of Europe and the world into thinking that Russya is a modern, well run nation. It is not. Not too long ago "Putin" became the same word for "fat/prosperous". Times have changed. The current times are not fat nor prosperous for most of the country. The governor of Arkangelsk, Igor Orlov, says the project will bring 500 needed jobs. In a slick Kremlin display, it was noted that the garbage will be baled in plastic and placed in the ground. The site will handle 500,000 tons. Aleksei Navalny has joined the fight. He wants better wages for all levels, not just remote dump sites. Many locals already have good jobs with Gazprom, the large oil producer in Russya. "We don't need 500 more jobs hauling garbage", say locals. Enough of the Kremlin's plans. Mr. Navalny and others have linked the garbage plan contracts to high level officials who stand to get rich. This is considered good business by Putin.
One local, a businessman, Nikolai Viktorov, says, "after we get rid of the garbage in Shiyes(Urdoma), we'll get rid of the garbage in Moskova."
Let's watch the action that will soon take place in Siberia.
Moskova is a large city, perched in a western corner of the country loosely called "The Federation." This country puts much of its resources into Moskova, it is said to glitter(perhaps from ice crystals). Its large population, like its peers, produces tons of refuse everyday. It must be removed, and it is, by organized collectors, who, despite freezing weather, heavy snow and ice, lengthy nights and short days, go about their business with credible efficiency. (no piles of debris in the city).
Now Moskova has been around for centuries, and debris has been removed with various degrees of certainty, depending on methods available at the time. These days, experts have combined to make the process very efficient: a single man/woman operates a truck that moves at a steady pace as its robot arms shift loads from street containers directly to the motorized collectors. Very nice, if not necessarily quiet. From the street to the landfill can take some time depending on the location of the site. And there in, lies the modern problem: where do we put the landfill?
How about Siberia? Brilliant. Siberia is a big place. Not too long ago, Tzars used it to relocate dissidents and undesirables. Why not garbage? Aren't they about the same? Let's have a look. So, the Kremlinistas sent out their lackies to find just the right site: not too close, yet not too far-just right.
What did they find?
They found a small town in the forest with a population of about 5 thousand hearty souls. The town is called URDOMA, which translated means "near a river or stream". It snows a lot here, but the locals like it. It used to be the site of a gulag prison, founded by the prisoners who were dumped here. It is in the state of Arkhangelsk, not too far from Finland, Russya's nervous neighbor to the west. Locals have formed a group to oppose the Kremlin's plans. This group, called CLEAN URDOMA, is spearheading an effort to ban trash dumping in their town. Sergei Yakimov, the lawyer for the group, says the Kremlin has priorities wrong: instead of financing recycling efforts, the Kremlin spends on appearances to fool the rest of Europe and the world into thinking that Russya is a modern, well run nation. It is not. Not too long ago "Putin" became the same word for "fat/prosperous". Times have changed. The current times are not fat nor prosperous for most of the country. The governor of Arkangelsk, Igor Orlov, says the project will bring 500 needed jobs. In a slick Kremlin display, it was noted that the garbage will be baled in plastic and placed in the ground. The site will handle 500,000 tons. Aleksei Navalny has joined the fight. He wants better wages for all levels, not just remote dump sites. Many locals already have good jobs with Gazprom, the large oil producer in Russya. "We don't need 500 more jobs hauling garbage", say locals. Enough of the Kremlin's plans. Mr. Navalny and others have linked the garbage plan contracts to high level officials who stand to get rich. This is considered good business by Putin.
One local, a businessman, Nikolai Viktorov, says, "after we get rid of the garbage in Shiyes(Urdoma), we'll get rid of the garbage in Moskova."
Let's watch the action that will soon take place in Siberia.
Wednesday, February 20, 2019
Tax Man Cometh Soon
Well, now, California's taxpayers are getting some surprises with their tax refunds. As in: the refunds are a lot smaller than expected or not existing at all. Shocking. But, thanks to federal changes and thanks to Jerry Brown, just retired Governor of the Once Golden State; we the People are paying up in shocking amounts.
Much of the issue comes down to Pres. Trump's changes in amount of deductions for S.A.L.T.: sales taxes and real estate taxes for residential property. He placed a $10,000 maximum on deductions for property taxes and sales taxes. So, if you were among the 100,000's of home owners who purchased in the last few years in markets of California where PEOPLE WANT TO LIVE, you paid a high price for said home. You paid this high price because the State Government and its legislature made home construction one of the most onerous jobs in the state. And not because carpentry is difficult, but because getting the permit is near impossible no matter where you want to build.
We in Tahoma face this permit issue everyday. It began back in 1969 with the creation of the TRPB-the Tahoe regional Planning Board. Given the power, they've exercised it to the point that only the 1%ers can afford to live in the basin. The rest must live a long way from Highway 89.
So, we look at our tax returns and ask the question: "How did this happen?" Proposition 13 was supposed to shield us from huge increases in tax bills, limited to 2% or less per year, depending on the inflation rate within the State. The Trump White House claims that the rest of the country's taxpayers were subsidizing California's residents who were hit with ultra high property taxes. To put the brakes on this subsidy, he limited the tax deduction to 10G's. In effect, he gave us quite a bit more TAXABLE INCOME. Yea. Look how much we have made this year. Oh, but wait. That excess is going to Washington, D.C. to be redistributed to......To Whom or what? Who ever knows isn't talking, just yet. But you wait: when the figures come in, we middle class workers will see how much federal aid we sent to Washington versus how much Washington sent here. And now he wants to take back some $985 billion sent here for the High Speed Train just cancelled by Gavin Newsom.
Oh, the pain. What about us? Maybe Kamala will help. Or DiFi? Don't hold your breath, compadre.
Much of the issue comes down to Pres. Trump's changes in amount of deductions for S.A.L.T.: sales taxes and real estate taxes for residential property. He placed a $10,000 maximum on deductions for property taxes and sales taxes. So, if you were among the 100,000's of home owners who purchased in the last few years in markets of California where PEOPLE WANT TO LIVE, you paid a high price for said home. You paid this high price because the State Government and its legislature made home construction one of the most onerous jobs in the state. And not because carpentry is difficult, but because getting the permit is near impossible no matter where you want to build.
We in Tahoma face this permit issue everyday. It began back in 1969 with the creation of the TRPB-the Tahoe regional Planning Board. Given the power, they've exercised it to the point that only the 1%ers can afford to live in the basin. The rest must live a long way from Highway 89.
So, we look at our tax returns and ask the question: "How did this happen?" Proposition 13 was supposed to shield us from huge increases in tax bills, limited to 2% or less per year, depending on the inflation rate within the State. The Trump White House claims that the rest of the country's taxpayers were subsidizing California's residents who were hit with ultra high property taxes. To put the brakes on this subsidy, he limited the tax deduction to 10G's. In effect, he gave us quite a bit more TAXABLE INCOME. Yea. Look how much we have made this year. Oh, but wait. That excess is going to Washington, D.C. to be redistributed to......To Whom or what? Who ever knows isn't talking, just yet. But you wait: when the figures come in, we middle class workers will see how much federal aid we sent to Washington versus how much Washington sent here. And now he wants to take back some $985 billion sent here for the High Speed Train just cancelled by Gavin Newsom.
Oh, the pain. What about us? Maybe Kamala will help. Or DiFi? Don't hold your breath, compadre.
Tuesday, February 19, 2019
Bernie sanders: I'M All In
The latent Socialist politician, Bernie Sanders has announced he will run for President in 2020 against a field getting more crowded by the day. The septuagenarian has hardly stopped from his last run in 2016. But this time, he thnks it will be his time as young socialist -leaning democrats seek to make the Congress completely Democratic along with the White House. In other words, Bernie thinks he can make it a clean sweep. It's really pathetic.
Monday, February 18, 2019
USS Tulsa: Latest Hit for US Navy
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| USS Tulsa LCS-16 @ Pier 32-San Francisco bay |
It's a different looking vessel, unlike most ships that have tied up here. Its low slung profile looked more like a ferry than a warship. But the mission of this ship is different. She's not designed to engage other ships at sea; rather, she is intended to get close in to a foreign shore and assist with a few missions: mine clearing; reconnaissance, force insertion of special operations units; and heliborne missions from her flight deck to include drones and drone recovery.
The prototype was launched almost 10 years ago, and 15 of the class are already in service. The cost of this ship is frightful, over $500 millions. Originally, it was supposed to cost about half that figure. But, the Pentagon and its ship procurement program ran into reality. While the CNO and the DOD wanted something produced asap, it was beyond the capacity of the number crunchers to do it.
Years were added to the timeline; money wasted; orders changed; construction was underway and then the design was altered. Not the best way to build a ship.
The crew is composed of only 70 officers and men- not many. But their mission does not need large shipboard complements. Operators only; some engineering teams; deck apes; and a few deciders. Oh, and it was designed from a civilian design of a : Ferry Boat. Hence: a tri hull or trimaran if you will. Originally, the CNO wanted 40 knots of speen at the waterline. He settled for 30 knots. He wanted it capable of self defense; he got a maybe. He wanted a hull with survival shielding; he got a maybe. It is armed with 1 gun, up forward. A few other systems might add to its defense, but they will be added later. Google it and have a look.
Your tax dollars at work.
Sunday, February 17, 2019
Amazon: Adios New York: Hello Electric Cars
Well, after all the drama, Amazon said goodby to Bill DeBlasio, Andrew Cuomo, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. Enough of your games: no more play tax drama. Enough, enough, enough. So, the front pages got this out of their systems. Now: electric pickup trucks.
Amazon announced a partnership with Rivian, a startup electric vehicle maker in Michigan. It will build an all electric truck and an S.U.V. to compet with Land Rovers and Porsche S.U.V.s. The founder, R.J. Scaringe, has a PhD. in engineering from M.I.T. He founded a company in Florida and has now founded a new company to be headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan, about 45 miles west of Detroit. He has received funds from Sumitomo Bank($500 million) and Abdul Jameel, a Saudi industrial group.
Now Tesla has some competition. Mr. Musk, the leader, has something else to worry about other than his parts supply chain which seems to have been an after thought. Maybe he'll slow down Space X and focus on car parts. 'Bout time.
Rumors have been heard about the possibility of Russya getting into the electric vehicle business. Some of the rumors involve China and its idea of expanding into Russya by offering discounts on electric car parts made in China. Rumors also exist that put Vladimir Putin as head of the conglomerate that would produce the car.
A Russyan electric vehicle? Hmmmm. What would it look like? Maybe it would look like an oil field pump jack married to a cruise missile? Or maybe like an anti aircraft missile married to a an unmarked truck. Or maybe like a Crimean beach front dacha? Or maybe like a Ukrainian dacha in Socha? The Russyan industrial complex is shaped and designed by the Kremlin. Maybe it would look like an onion-topped castle ala Red Square. Maybe Mr. Putin will ask Ashar Basad to design the vehicle. Or maybe Nicolas Maduro would have an idea that Mr. Putin can get behind. Or maybe Raul Castro will help: there are lots of stylish cars in Havana that could be used as models, as in the retro-look. Oh, the possibilities: an electric woody station wagon-an instant hit in California.
Amazon announced a partnership with Rivian, a startup electric vehicle maker in Michigan. It will build an all electric truck and an S.U.V. to compet with Land Rovers and Porsche S.U.V.s. The founder, R.J. Scaringe, has a PhD. in engineering from M.I.T. He founded a company in Florida and has now founded a new company to be headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan, about 45 miles west of Detroit. He has received funds from Sumitomo Bank($500 million) and Abdul Jameel, a Saudi industrial group.
Now Tesla has some competition. Mr. Musk, the leader, has something else to worry about other than his parts supply chain which seems to have been an after thought. Maybe he'll slow down Space X and focus on car parts. 'Bout time.
Rumors have been heard about the possibility of Russya getting into the electric vehicle business. Some of the rumors involve China and its idea of expanding into Russya by offering discounts on electric car parts made in China. Rumors also exist that put Vladimir Putin as head of the conglomerate that would produce the car.
A Russyan electric vehicle? Hmmmm. What would it look like? Maybe it would look like an oil field pump jack married to a cruise missile? Or maybe like an anti aircraft missile married to a an unmarked truck. Or maybe like a Crimean beach front dacha? Or maybe like a Ukrainian dacha in Socha? The Russyan industrial complex is shaped and designed by the Kremlin. Maybe it would look like an onion-topped castle ala Red Square. Maybe Mr. Putin will ask Ashar Basad to design the vehicle. Or maybe Nicolas Maduro would have an idea that Mr. Putin can get behind. Or maybe Raul Castro will help: there are lots of stylish cars in Havana that could be used as models, as in the retro-look. Oh, the possibilities: an electric woody station wagon-an instant hit in California.
Thursday, February 14, 2019
The Night Life
Thank you, Tim O'Brien
f. The Things They Carried, 1990
Wednesday, February 13, 2019
Chinese in Denmark?
Well, no, they haven't been seen in Copenhagen crowding into McDonalds. They've been seen sniffing around Greenland. Where? What? Are you kidding me? Why Greenland is next to canada, next to the US, next to Washington, D.C. What gives? Need an airport?
So, there aren't any international airports worthy of the name on Greenland Island. The existing regional-sized facilities can barely handle small jets. So, our friends in Beijing think a new, bright , shiny aeroporto would look good on the southwest coast of the Island-the warmer area-better weather helped by the Gulfstream as it pivots east. Now Denmark owns Greenland and administers the island as a province. But, political reality includes most foreign policy governed by the central government. So, naturally, the Chinese airport builders must convince the Danes that their hearts are pure, their efforts altruistic, and the goal is improved international relations.
Message to Danes: check resumes and history of Chinese global efforts(see Huawei, ZTE, Alibaba, etc.) Oh, and keep an eye on Uighurs and their disposition in concentration/re-education camps.
Have fun with XiJP.
So, there aren't any international airports worthy of the name on Greenland Island. The existing regional-sized facilities can barely handle small jets. So, our friends in Beijing think a new, bright , shiny aeroporto would look good on the southwest coast of the Island-the warmer area-better weather helped by the Gulfstream as it pivots east. Now Denmark owns Greenland and administers the island as a province. But, political reality includes most foreign policy governed by the central government. So, naturally, the Chinese airport builders must convince the Danes that their hearts are pure, their efforts altruistic, and the goal is improved international relations.
Message to Danes: check resumes and history of Chinese global efforts(see Huawei, ZTE, Alibaba, etc.) Oh, and keep an eye on Uighurs and their disposition in concentration/re-education camps.
Have fun with XiJP.
CITGO Oil: A Little Love Needed
Venezuela's Citgo Oil Company relies on the US market for its revenue. the US Treasury was ordered to hold all CitGo funds in the US for the future government after Nicolas Maduro is sent packing. Now CitGo is putting out the message that the company really helps the local economy wherever they have an outlet(gas station). I wonder which PR firm was enlisted to promote Venezuela in the US. No matter, the campaign to polish up the image of CitGo/Venezuela has been seen in national newspapers. While not quite the size of Wells Fargo's full page efforts, the quarter page slices offer a different look: they ads are located on the outer edges of the page so readers can scan vertically the listed "attributes" of CitGo and the benefits enjoyed by Americans wherever and whenever they buy CitGo product.
Perhaps Venezuela should hire some Saudi PR firm, maybe the OPEC PR firm that tries to convince the world that OPEC is not a C-A-R-T-E-L. (the cartel recently lowered production by 250,000 barrels a day,hoping to raise prices). Venezuela has lost market share by losing production totals prompted by failing industry infrastucture caused by nationalization, corruption, and lack of know how. It seems that Maduro's government fell for the promises of the castro brothers who offered to guide the country into a "new" Communist country. By accepting this promise from the scoundrels from Cuba, Maduro, et al. guaranteed failure. Mr. Guiado should make the removal of all Cubans as his highest priority when he assumes power which is imminent. What country will accept Maduro? Cuba, of course. Maybe China to whom much is owed($50 billion in outstanding loans). Maybe Syria. Maybe Iran(sure), maybe Iraq; maybe Turkey; maybe even Sudan or Northern Macedonia( just announced name change yesterday).
So, little CitGo tries to sway public opinion; but alas, despite the Bannon/Manafort efforts at fake news, most Americans will be fine with confiscation of CitGo's assets in the States until such time as the dictator takes the hint and heads for other opportunities. Maybe Russya-lots of new gold discovered. And lots of Polar Bears in Novaya Zemlaya.
Perhaps Venezuela should hire some Saudi PR firm, maybe the OPEC PR firm that tries to convince the world that OPEC is not a C-A-R-T-E-L. (the cartel recently lowered production by 250,000 barrels a day,hoping to raise prices). Venezuela has lost market share by losing production totals prompted by failing industry infrastucture caused by nationalization, corruption, and lack of know how. It seems that Maduro's government fell for the promises of the castro brothers who offered to guide the country into a "new" Communist country. By accepting this promise from the scoundrels from Cuba, Maduro, et al. guaranteed failure. Mr. Guiado should make the removal of all Cubans as his highest priority when he assumes power which is imminent. What country will accept Maduro? Cuba, of course. Maybe China to whom much is owed($50 billion in outstanding loans). Maybe Syria. Maybe Iran(sure), maybe Iraq; maybe Turkey; maybe even Sudan or Northern Macedonia( just announced name change yesterday).
So, little CitGo tries to sway public opinion; but alas, despite the Bannon/Manafort efforts at fake news, most Americans will be fine with confiscation of CitGo's assets in the States until such time as the dictator takes the hint and heads for other opportunities. Maybe Russya-lots of new gold discovered. And lots of Polar Bears in Novaya Zemlaya.
Sunday, February 10, 2019
China Courts Phillipine President Duterte
Ah, China-bulging at the seams, looking abroad for "all" opportunities. Oh, there's one, says President Xi J P: across "our" sea, the SOUTH CHINA SEA. It's called Subic Bay by the locals. It's a fine deep water port, just north of Manila Bay on the west coast of Luzon Island, ideally situated to facilitate ship repair and maintenance for a sizeable fleet. maybe the locals would like some cash? Maybe Pres. Duterte is open to a discussion about a sale or lease of the property? It was long used by the USA as a logistical base for its 7th Fleet that has so often irritated Asian governments.
Now, there has been some criticisms of China's activities in the South China Sea. Countries on the periphery have complained that China is making claims on islands that historically belong to the Phillipine Is. These claims are bogus, says Beijing. These waters are in our sphere of influence by geography alone. Contrary to UN and USA statements, our efforts in this area will continue. Any further discussion is deemed superfluous.
Ahhh, modern diplomacy as seen by Beijing, Russya's new friend(BFF).
After Vova has made an effort to make some deals with Pres. Xi, it is obvious to world observers that the relationship between the two has flipped: China is now the controlling agent and the Kremlin is the subordinate supplicant. Russya's position is fairly well known to the world: a country attempting to gain relevancy as its economy continues to slide and its population sharply declines because of basic demographic principles: more deaths than births= decline in numbers. Poor Vova, he can't control anything anymore. Damn sanctions imposed by Trump over our Crimean efforts, and our Ukrainian efforts; and our Syrian efforts; and our Baltic efforts; and our Skirpal efforts. Hmmm. Is there a pattern here? Not easy being a revisionist historian.
We'll have to wait and see what Phillipine President Duterte wants from his new friends. Maybe he'll do a deal like some of those countries in Africa that hired China to build some roads, dams, and bridges. Don't hold one's breath.
Now, there has been some criticisms of China's activities in the South China Sea. Countries on the periphery have complained that China is making claims on islands that historically belong to the Phillipine Is. These claims are bogus, says Beijing. These waters are in our sphere of influence by geography alone. Contrary to UN and USA statements, our efforts in this area will continue. Any further discussion is deemed superfluous.
Ahhh, modern diplomacy as seen by Beijing, Russya's new friend(BFF).
After Vova has made an effort to make some deals with Pres. Xi, it is obvious to world observers that the relationship between the two has flipped: China is now the controlling agent and the Kremlin is the subordinate supplicant. Russya's position is fairly well known to the world: a country attempting to gain relevancy as its economy continues to slide and its population sharply declines because of basic demographic principles: more deaths than births= decline in numbers. Poor Vova, he can't control anything anymore. Damn sanctions imposed by Trump over our Crimean efforts, and our Ukrainian efforts; and our Syrian efforts; and our Baltic efforts; and our Skirpal efforts. Hmmm. Is there a pattern here? Not easy being a revisionist historian.
We'll have to wait and see what Phillipine President Duterte wants from his new friends. Maybe he'll do a deal like some of those countries in Africa that hired China to build some roads, dams, and bridges. Don't hold one's breath.
Russya: There's Gold in Them Hills
In a bold press release from the Kremlin, it was announced to the world( and international bankers and investors and lenders and China and the US of A, that geologists and mining engineers have confirmed the discovery of a vast area on land in Siberia that is believed to hold upwards of 30 million ounces of gold. This gold field is at the surface which means that recovery efforts will be relatively easy to accomplish. Of course, that is only the beginning of the gold recovery. Once the ore is mined, the chemical extraction is required. By products of this process are notoriously polluted. Let's see: who will get the polluted by products? Maybe China will offer a "solution"? maybe our friends in Southern Italy who have experience in treating industrial waste? Maybe the Uighers in Western China need some? No doubt, these related questions will be answered in the Kremlin by experts who have the people's health in mind.
With all this new wealth, mr. Putin will not be dependent on his oil, or his military. He can buy what he needs. Maybe install some indoor plumbing in the 25% of domestic homes that lack this modern touch.? Maybe Vova will buy some new fishing lures to advance his sporting efforts? Maybe build a few new dachas in Crimea for Paul Manafort?
No matter, always nice to known their's more of the precious metal about to flood the market and keep prices low during another economic turn down.
With all this new wealth, mr. Putin will not be dependent on his oil, or his military. He can buy what he needs. Maybe install some indoor plumbing in the 25% of domestic homes that lack this modern touch.? Maybe Vova will buy some new fishing lures to advance his sporting efforts? Maybe build a few new dachas in Crimea for Paul Manafort?
No matter, always nice to known their's more of the precious metal about to flood the market and keep prices low during another economic turn down.
Interstate 80: Closed Again
Woe the skiers who got a late start for the Sierra yesterday: Cal Trans closed the road in both directions last evening(9th) from Colfax to the Nevada state line(past Truckee). Multiple vehicle spin outs caused the shut down as falling snow hindered visibility and control by drivers. Usually, drivers under these conditions are prudent and stop before an incident. But, as we know here in Tahoma, when ignorance takes the wheel, bad things happen.
Snow is forecast off and on for the next few days: be careful; carry chains, USE THEM, and don't drive unless you have to.
Snow is forecast off and on for the next few days: be careful; carry chains, USE THEM, and don't drive unless you have to.
Saturday, February 9, 2019
Book Review: U.S. Grant: Personal Memoirs, Webster & Co., New York,1885
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| Lt. General U.S. Grant, 1865 |
Initially, the Congress and the Army thought that the entire affair would be over in a few months. The South, an economy based on a few major crops- cotton and tobacco and a few others, was not viewed as a reputable opponent for a well-equipped modern army possessed by the North and its member states. A large percentage of the Southern population was comprised of slaves, Blacks who did not enjoy any benefit as residents there in. The plantation owners were going to fight for their way of life enjoy for centuries. They would enlist those members of Southern states who held similar beliefs. All male members of the population were expected to defend their homes. their businesses, their farms, and plantations.
The first major battle occurred at Manassas(Bull Run) in Northern Virginia, about 20 miles west of Washington, D.C. The contested ground was not a grand landscape, but a site of agricultural pursuits in the rolling hills of red earth. The contestants faced off with lines of artillery closely laid, often within 100 meters of each other. Spectators from Washington arrived to "watch" the show. Shortly, it became evident that the federal troops were being routed by the boys in gray, and the day trippers retreated in haste back to the relative safety of their homes along the Potomac River. It was to be a long war.
Lincoln took the news with alarm, and immediately convened his cabinet with special attention to the Sec. of War Stanton. Questions were asked: what did the army require to become an offensive unit? Who were the leaders we have and who did we need to take command? These questions would continue to be asked and answered over the next 4 years.
One of those who answered was a former Army captain, a renowned figure who performed with distinction in the Mexican War approximately 13 years before. Ulysses S. Grant had been a civilian after returning to business in the intervening years. He was recruited initially to command the troops from the state-raised militia. Before long, he would be called upon to lead a division as a brigadier.
Meanwhile, Mr. Lincoln was getting reports from his staff as to the fitness of his troops and their leaders. He wanted them in the field and in pursuit of the rebels. His generals were reluctant to get started, waiting for optimum conditions. Gen. Grant was now on the move in the Mississippi Department where the great river would become the focus of much activity for his 2 years. The river was the highway for much of the middle of the country, now crisscrossed with railroads. It was the principle conduit used by the South to market their produce and also to supply the rebel forces operating along the border states. Gen. Grant recognized its importance and immediately made it his main effort. His success caught the eyes of both Pres. Lincoln and Sec. of War Stanton. In their combines effort to marshal the troops, Gen. Halleck in Washington called for Grant's transfer to lead the Army of the Potomac operating in Virginia, Maryland, and Pennsylvania. His opponent in this region would be his former Mexican War comrade, Robert E. Lee, a most able soldier and son of old Virginia, and a son of the famous Light Horse Lee. Grant would request and receive his most dependable general, William T. Sherman. After establishing himself in the tidewater country around the Potomac, he immediately put his forces on the offensive.
With remarkable skill, this man of barely 40 years turned the tide against all the efforts of the South to establish a separate government from that established in 1789. He would move his forces with a steady hand, placing able leaders where they could be most effective. The names are a roll call of well known individuals who occupy a pantheon of American heroes: Sherman at the top of the list; Phil Sheridan, the cavalry leader, George Armstrong Custer, another cavalry stalwart; Gens. Meade; McPherson; Schofield; Hancock; Wright; Warren, and many others.
Reading the memoirs of one of the most able generals anywhere, it is apparent that the war was a contest without a clear victor until Grant was given command of all the Union forces. In a very short time, it became evident to most observers that the South was going to be the loser. Grant was an aggressive, relentless, and able to gather his troops to defeat any and all the Southern armies no matter who led them in the field.
After the surrender of Lee and his army at Appomattox Court House, Grant returned to Washington only to have his most generous supporter and leader cut down by an assassin's bullet. Grant would go on to lead the country for two presidential terms before his untimely death a few months after his memoirs were completed. He knew he was dying of an incurable disease and worked without let up to complete the job. Few native sons could achieve his status in a single lifetime.
The book is divided into two volumes, often combined into one. A new, abridged edition is now in print.
Thursday, February 7, 2019
Maduro Blocks Humanitarian Aid
Venezuelans were dealt a serious blow yesterday as Maduro's military followers placed a blockade on the border highway leading into the country in an effort to block food and medicines en route to the country. Mr. Maduro seems destined to shoot himself in the foot regularly. He's done it again in this case. International organizations, recognizing the dire straits of the people of Venezuela, have assembled aid packages to assist in efforts to avoid starvation and deaths by various diseases now overtaking the nation's health care system run by Cuban doctors.
These acts ordered by Mr. Maduro underscore his incompetence and his ignorance. His behavior illustrates the desperate attempt to hold power in a dictatorship. He wants power; he wants control; he wants to win. He is being held back by external influences. He will not capitulate. His brain has lost its mind. The people of Venezuela continue to suffer.
South American leaders are hamstrung: what to do? In other areas, border countries being inundated by refugees seeking food and shelter would issue ultimatums to governments responsible. Here it is different. Given the political situation across the continental landscape, few leaders would agree to take this route. With the backing of Iran, Cuba, Russya, and China, Maduro has been able to survive a bit longer. The day of reckoning is at hand; his followers are melting away. The Cubans are starting to get nervous and cannot keep up with the opposition government that has been formed to oppose Maduro.
This month should mark the end of this Cuban takeover of a foreign country by subversion and intrigue. Perhaps the Organization of American States will agree on a plan. Or perhaps the United nations. Or perhaps the Lima Group. The World waits.
These acts ordered by Mr. Maduro underscore his incompetence and his ignorance. His behavior illustrates the desperate attempt to hold power in a dictatorship. He wants power; he wants control; he wants to win. He is being held back by external influences. He will not capitulate. His brain has lost its mind. The people of Venezuela continue to suffer.
South American leaders are hamstrung: what to do? In other areas, border countries being inundated by refugees seeking food and shelter would issue ultimatums to governments responsible. Here it is different. Given the political situation across the continental landscape, few leaders would agree to take this route. With the backing of Iran, Cuba, Russya, and China, Maduro has been able to survive a bit longer. The day of reckoning is at hand; his followers are melting away. The Cubans are starting to get nervous and cannot keep up with the opposition government that has been formed to oppose Maduro.
This month should mark the end of this Cuban takeover of a foreign country by subversion and intrigue. Perhaps the Organization of American States will agree on a plan. Or perhaps the United nations. Or perhaps the Lima Group. The World waits.
Wednesday, February 6, 2019
Big Dump of Snow Lights up Lake
With over 6 feet of new snow and 6" of new powder last night, skiers and boarders are reveling in the Sierra scene. Chains are required on Highway 89 and the Emerald Bay roas on 89 is closed UFO. Don't jump the barrier!
So, put on your chains and get to your favorite mountain resort for best -of- season experience: more snow, perfect temperatures, and small crowds to contend with-ideal.
So, put on your chains and get to your favorite mountain resort for best -of- season experience: more snow, perfect temperatures, and small crowds to contend with-ideal.
Snow by the Bay
Well, we Tahomans know cold and snow. Yesterday, our coastwise neighbors in San Francisco received some snow for the first time in 8 years. 8 years! That's considered a drought up here. The dusting came as a result of a sharp drop in overnight temps that dipped below freezing. High hills of the City captured some precipitation in the form of S-N-O-W. Mt. Sutro, in the City center, Mt. Davidson nearby, and famous Twin Peaks all received enough to color the City White for a few ho¨rs. as dawn broke, the winter landscape began to change, and only early risers enjoyed the picturesque scene. Lucky them.
Sunday, February 3, 2019
Super Bowl LIII/50-Its Over
So, Tom Terrific did it again- his 6th victory in 9 tries: more than anybody else. It is an amazing achievement for an individual to attain such success over 17 years of a career. No doubt the combination of individual talent, leadership among the coaching staff(including Bill Belichick), and an owner(Robt. Kraft) with deep pockets helps keep the momentum up.
The game was billed as a contest between the old and the new. The new represented by Jared Goff and his coach at the LA Rams, Sean McVay, 24 and 33 respectively. Tom Brady is 41, and Bill Belichick is 66. It turned out to be a contest between defenses: the score by quarter tells the story-
1st qtr: 0-0
2nd qtr:NE 3- LA Rams 0
3rd qtr: Tied 3-3
Final:
New England 13-
Los Angeles Rams 3
Only 1 touchdown was scored by either team, with New England finally getting into the Red Zone to make it 10-3. LA came back later in the quarter and tried a field goal that missed. Finally, on a drive late, Jared Goff threw an interception on the 3 yard line that spelled the end for LA.
Many punts were kicked during the contest, with 3 downs and kick the order of the day. Both punters earned their pay. The LA kinker put a 53 yard field goal through the uprights for the team's only points in the 3rd quarter.
Bottom line: New England and Tom Brady continue their reign as masters of the art of Football in the NFL. HIs days are almost at an end calling signals as he is apt to age out any minute at 41+. Jared Goff should be on the verge of a long career, barring injury. He and his cohort members could take the NFL to a new era of sports.
The MVP
Julian Edelman was selected as MVP of the contest. The scrappy flanker caught a dozen passes for almost 200 yards, He was an easy choice because he stood out among all others. he had a banner day and provided lots of great moments for all fans everywhere.
The game was billed as a contest between the old and the new. The new represented by Jared Goff and his coach at the LA Rams, Sean McVay, 24 and 33 respectively. Tom Brady is 41, and Bill Belichick is 66. It turned out to be a contest between defenses: the score by quarter tells the story-
1st qtr: 0-0
2nd qtr:NE 3- LA Rams 0
3rd qtr: Tied 3-3
Final:
New England 13-
Los Angeles Rams 3
Only 1 touchdown was scored by either team, with New England finally getting into the Red Zone to make it 10-3. LA came back later in the quarter and tried a field goal that missed. Finally, on a drive late, Jared Goff threw an interception on the 3 yard line that spelled the end for LA.
Many punts were kicked during the contest, with 3 downs and kick the order of the day. Both punters earned their pay. The LA kinker put a 53 yard field goal through the uprights for the team's only points in the 3rd quarter.
Bottom line: New England and Tom Brady continue their reign as masters of the art of Football in the NFL. HIs days are almost at an end calling signals as he is apt to age out any minute at 41+. Jared Goff should be on the verge of a long career, barring injury. He and his cohort members could take the NFL to a new era of sports.
The MVP
Julian Edelman was selected as MVP of the contest. The scrappy flanker caught a dozen passes for almost 200 yards, He was an easy choice because he stood out among all others. he had a banner day and provided lots of great moments for all fans everywhere.
Friday, February 1, 2019
SNOW, Snow, and more Snow
Well, ski dogs, get ready for some mid-winter powder skiing. Snow will begin falling tonight, Friday, February 1st. It should continue for at least 4-5 days, ending around Tuesday, Feb. 5th. Powder skiing will begin on the 6th. So, meantime, load up on food for the next 5 days; go shopping this morning, maybe add a few batteries for the portables, and some meds just in case.
The Super Bowl LIII will take place Sunday afternoon in Atlanta between the East Coast and the Left Coast. It is a contest engineered for hype from all quarters. A sportswriters dream event: age v. beauty; seniors v. youths; veterans v. newbys; experience v. freshmen. New England v. the World of Hollywood; Marin County v. San Mateo County. I hope your wagers are in place. This game could break records especially if the score is close during the contest. It will be. Passing, passing, and more passing. Bellichick will pull out the stops; LA will begin with dazzling movements meant to confuse the defense. Watch the snow fall, stay warm, drink in moderation.
The Super Bowl LIII will take place Sunday afternoon in Atlanta between the East Coast and the Left Coast. It is a contest engineered for hype from all quarters. A sportswriters dream event: age v. beauty; seniors v. youths; veterans v. newbys; experience v. freshmen. New England v. the World of Hollywood; Marin County v. San Mateo County. I hope your wagers are in place. This game could break records especially if the score is close during the contest. It will be. Passing, passing, and more passing. Bellichick will pull out the stops; LA will begin with dazzling movements meant to confuse the defense. Watch the snow fall, stay warm, drink in moderation.
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