The Oscars: Kremlin Style

        Well, they rolled out the "RED" carpet the other night(Sunday). The host(s) did their feminine best to have the viewers stay glued to the tube so the industry Titans could enjoy the moment while the dollars flowed into the bank accounts. While the moguls were feasting on glory, the Kremlin hosted its own "Oskar" night in Moskova, center of Russyan culture and night life(even in Winter/Spring). Despite Russya's dark history of inhumane treatment of its own people(s), a trickle of culture survives due to the determination of a few artists. (See Hermitage Museum). We also know that the Steppes People are adept at usurping cultural traits from other peoples(see Ukraine, et.al.)

       The lineup of successful films screened in the country reads like a lineup of cultural icons: military prowess, Olympic glory, freedom of oppressed peoples and citizens,  Space conquest(s)(see ISS), hyper-sonic weaponry, hacking industry, oil & gas sales, bonding with Chinese neighbors, altering reality for the masses, music and dance, fine cuisine, Vodka sales boom, medical advances during a pandemic, support of educational opportunities for minority groups, integration of remote provinces of the largest country in the world into main stream political activities, and of course, development of nerve agents designed for use against dissenters.

        It was quite a night for the oligarchs: they could watch the results of their financial investments in the film industry.  Many of these Russyans deplore the bad treatment by the media, whether in print or the internet, largely controlled by the decadent West and its  minions in the EU. None the less, they attended to enjoy the limelight(red light?).

The Winners of Russyan Oskars,2022:

Best Picture- Victory in Crimea, produced by Abramovich Studios

Best Actor- Gen. Gerasimov

Best Supporting Actor: General Sergei Shoigu

Best Director- Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin(Vova).

Best Documentary: "Modern Life in Donbass" by the Moskova Collective Studio, narrated by Alexei Navalny(from prison).

Best Foreign Film-Drama: "ROC" at Beijing-2022", directed by Maria Sharapova.

Best Propaganda Film: Victory in Crimea, produced by FSB Studios.

Best Hacking/Piracy/Ransomware: FSB Studios, Moskova

Best Makeup Artist for Film: Sergei Peskov

Best Musical Score: Igor Stravinsky(20th award).

Best Song by an Artist for Film: Billie Eilish  and Finneas O'Connor for "No Time to Die", dedicated to Ukrainian soldiers and civilians

Best Makeup: Vladimir Putin, (22nd award)

Best Pandemic Response Film Directors Award: Vladimir Putin

Best Film by Dissenter: "Life After Novichuk" by Alexei Navalny

Best Musical Score: Pussy Riot

Best Artillery Barrage: 1st Steppes Division Artillery Command for Constant Barrage/Time-On-Target concentration during "The Special Operation Against Nazis in Ukraine".

Special Award: Special Industry Accomplishment Award :Brittney Griner for Outstanding Athleticism During Incarceration for Alleged Drug Law Violation(s) While Playing Professional Basketball in Russya.

     As one can see from the list of awards, the Russyan arts are alive and well despite Western Oppression. It serves as an example of the perseverance of Rus Peoples, again.

Have a nice day. 

March Madness Times Two

        Well, the games known as "The Sweet Sixteen" among NCAA basketball teams have been completed. Two No.1 seeds are gone: Gonzaga U. beaten by the Arkansas Razorbacks(Hogs), and Arizona beaten by U. of Houston. Now fans will enjoy the results of an historic victory by a team from New Jersey: The Fighting Peacocks of St. Peters in Jersey City, NJ. The team from the small Jesuit school is now a media darling: the current definition of the "Cinderella" team. For the first time in NCAA history, a 15th seed has advanced to the "Elite 8" round of tournament play. All their opponents were expected to roll over the upstart and send them to the dust bin of history. But, after surprise, surprise, they are now in the thick of it. Coached by a young man with ambition, this team of talented youngsters will now demand new attention.

        Their ascension to the "8" came after beating the favorite Purdue U. in a contest that saw numerous lead changes and tied scores from beginning to end. Purdue, led by 7'4" Edey, was intense as they came out firing, demonstrating command in the paint.  But a scrappy defense by St. Peters gave notice to all that they came to play. Early on, it became obvious that the officiating was to be tight, unlike the NBA. Fans of basketball may have forgotten what such officiating looked like, but the difference was there in front of all.  Members of the NJ squad were in foul trouble by the end of the first half. Their coach now had to rotate players from the bench to ensure enough playing time for his starters would take them deep into the 4th quarter of play. Turnovers by Purdue began to affect the score as takeaways and mishaps by the tallest players on the court increased pressure on the team. St. Peters never lost their focus: defense, defense, and more defense. The relentless pressure caused Purdue to miss more shots, and slowly but surely, the Peacocks took the lead. 

       Long ball -3-point shots-made inroads into each team's slim lead. Timely shots gave hope only to be questioned by a deadly 3-ball from the perimeter.  Jersey City's 'Hope' did not give up on their own tactic: charge the paint- and point guards forced the Boilermakers to spread their defenders and open the middle. As the seconds ticked down, St. Pete's lead was continually threatened. At the end, a Boilermaker 3-ball hit the rim-it would have made it a tie game- and it was over and history was made.

       March Madness No. 1 continues, as does March Madness No. 2. And what is No. 2? Ukraine and its invasion by the Russyan Army in south central Europe. In what was known after the US informed the world, an invasion occurred on February 24, 2022. In 3 different locations, Russyan forces began the ongoing attempt to take over a sovereign nation by force, the first such action since 1945. Mad Vlad, the Kremlin's house Dictator-in-Chief, announced to the world that certain action was needed to erase Nazis that had overtaken a country that is really, historically, Russyan, and w needs to be retaken to the fold by armed troops/planes/and ships. Scenes of modern assault actions abound from Kharkiv in the east, Mariupol in the south, and near Kyiv in the north where troops descend from Belarus. The madness does not stop as millions of Ukrainians flee the advance of deadly soldiers intent on carrying put the orders of Mad Vlad Putin who personally makes the Nazis look good. The EU and its members, NATO and its members, recoil in shock as the US president Biden speaks to the unity of the opposition supporting Ukraine against the invasion.

       This March Madness No.2 will play out longer than the NCAA Tournament for sure. How will it end No. 2, one can only speculate at this point. The future of Europe and Ukraine remains unknown 1 month after this demonstration of Russya's inability to stay sane.

Ukrainians Get a LIft Out to?

      Well, now we have some refugee issues, again. So, our Little green Men-aka Russyan soldiers, are taking prisoners in Mariupol and Kharkiv.  Hmmm.   Where's the holding pen(s)?  Hmmmmmm.  Let's send them to- R U S S Y A! If Putin says they're Russyans at heart and soul, they should be quite comfortable in MOther Russya, right? Hmmmmmm.  If you were Ukrainian, would you want to be sent -anywhere now? No, simply put. And have the Russyan army as your host? Double no. Mad Vlad, et.al. have a new plan: let's hold Ukrainians as hostages so we can negotiate with the bleeding hearts of the US and the EU. It's a win situation for Kremlin.

       So, after suffering for 3 weeks under Russyan artillery, missiles, and bombs, now we have to endure the deprivations of a Russyan administered concentration camp.  In the winter, in the cold, without adequate heat or protection. Ah, Russya, if only the information could be made known.  But, the Kremlin and the FSB have established a "fire wall" of sorts.  Most web sites have been shut down excepting state media.  The locals are fed  chunks of propaganda that spread lies throughout the largest country in the world, a country operated as a fiefdom by a handful of the dictator's friends who wander about the Kremlin trying to look busy and important.

      What will become of these international hostages? Nobody knows at this time when the Kremlin will pose these Ukrainians for propaganda purposes. Soon, we'll all know what insult will occur: Mad Vlad will make some outrageous claim against these "prisoners" and will now opt to release them, with certain "conditions" for parole.  How nice! But, this is not new. But, as we know, it's better than getting dosed with Novichuk, the weapons grade poison used by the FSB against dissenters who oppose the dictatorship.

       The world will have to listen to the vile statements, again from Dmitry Peskov, official spokes liar of Mr. Putin.  The jowly, bumbling old crony of Putin, has made a career of spewing Moskova's lies.

Is it time for Volodymir Zelensky to Negotiate?

       As Russyan artillery, aerial bombs, rockets, cruise missiles, and tanks pound numerous cities, killing innocent civilians, it's time to settle the fight. Putin knows he will win; the West will not commit any troops, sanctions cripple but do not defeat. Hence, Zelensky must negotiate a cease fire. The country will not be split up, and the people can remain Ukrainian, but no membership in EU or NATO. Case closed, clean up the mess.  Move on. End of story.

Where is Brittney Griner?

        Probably somewhere in Moskova, but nobody is talking.  Russyan state media revealed that a judge in Russya ammounced that Mrs. Griner will have her jail time extended until at least May.  Hmmmmm. The US Embassy announced that the government refused a request to visit Mrs. Griner, a clear violation of the the Vienna Convention that provides access to citizens of a foreign country being held in a nation that is a signer of the agreement.  Embassy official in Moskova have made more than several requests to date. Her fate is unknown.  Interestingly, the Russyan professional team she plays for is owned by a Russyan billionaire who is very close to Vladimir Putin(aren't they all?). Perhaps the owner knows that Mr. Putin needs more leverage in dealing with Pres. Biden.  Ms. Griner, 31 year sold, also plays in the US for a WNBA team, and has achieved superstar status.  Additionally, Ms. Griner is a woman of color and a member of the LGBTQ community.  In Russya, members of this community are not held in high esteem. Despite this political position by the Kremlin, Ms. Briner decided to play in this country because of the lavish pay and benefits offered to her and certain other teammates.

       It has been reported that a vapor cartridge was found in her luggage that contained cannabis oil, which is illegal in Russya.  If tried and convicted in a Russyan court, she could face 10 years in prison. Her wife implored both the US and Russya to release her and allow her to return home. becuase of Russya's attack and invasion of Ukraine, and settlement will not happen anytime soon.

The New Old Warriors: Golden State Returns

    With great anticipation, Draymond Green returned to his starting role for Golden State after a long break due to back injuries. It started early and ended well: Golden State won handily and Steph Curry scored 47 points.  Yes, 47 points.  Hmmm. And when do playoffs begin? I think they've started for the Dubs, who are now in 3rd place in the West division.  Can they continue? We'll see.

F.I.F.A. to Russya: NYET

       Well, it seems sanctions are spreading to sports. The World Cup will be held in Qatar. This location is not without its own controversy. Now, we have some more.  Soccer ruling body, F.I.F.A., has announced that all Russyan soccer teams, players, and coaches will be banned fromparticipation in the World Cup to be held late in Qatar.  This is a big step, especially when some teams are owned by Russyan oligarchs, eg. Abramovich. Now, many Russyan players will look over what they've been made to believe by state propaganda machines in the Kremlin. Ahh, Russya-the truth will set you free, but you forget.

Sergey Lavrov: Property owner

     Well, where's Mr. Lavrov's Kensington townhouse?  Hmmmmmmm.  Reward available from outside source. Peel back the layers of the ownership onion and let's see who is the "real"owner.  Does Mr. Lavrov, spokesman for the Mad Man of the Kremlin, own the toenhouse on Beauchamp Place? The 4 story, 5 million pound palace?  Hmmmmmmmm.  Well, we'll find out soon, and then : CONFISCATION. Then House sale, proceeds going to Ukrainian rebuilding efforts.

Looters on Loose

        Well, now the aftermath of invasion: Looting! Some things never change. "Hi! We're Russyans. We loot your place.  Please step aside and don't interfere.  We'll be done in a minute. Oh, is that your iphone? I will take it, but I need your code, please." And so it goes in Ukraine.

Russyans Being Russyan

         Human rights in Russyan Federation?  Ha, ha, ha,ha,ha,ha,haaaaaaaaaaaaaa!👿👿👿 Where's Tolstoy? Oh, dead. Where's Pushkin? Oh, dead. Where are the Romanovs? Oh, murdered by Bolsheviks 100 years ago. Where's Zhukov? Oh, dead.  Yeltsin? Dead. Ukraine? Almost dead.

       Ruled by mad man, and mad men(see military. Back in the old days, our parents were treated to nightly visions of the conflict in Vietnam. Old Walter C. gave it his best. Then came Kuwait, then, Iraq; then Afghanistan. Now, we see Ukraine, morning, noon, and night. There's no hiding the evidence. No, these are not archive films, these are now, live.  Those are current residents, not holdovers from another time. Berlin in '48; Hungary in '56? Or maybe Syria in 2015? Or Cuba in '62? 

       The list goes on and on.  Human Rights in Russya? Ha, no such thing.  I like it when I hear about the "law" and lawyers in Russya.  A joke put on the citizenry.  Law? Whose law? Not Ivan's; not Yuri, not Svetlana. Ah, Mother Russya. So, now we have a terror campaign against all things Ukrainian.  What's the difference between Ukrainian soldiers and civilians? According to General Gerasimov: N-O-T-H-I-N-G!!

Hospitals? Fair game. Schools? Fair game. Apartment houses? Fair game. Transit stations? Fair game. Shocking? NO, it's the traditional method of combat used by the Russyan army. The philosophy of war among Russyan leaders is the same now as it was in WW II: total war against all members of the enemy camp-women and children, the aged: all fair game. Thank you, Joe Stalin.  Your memory stays on, and on, and on.

Mother Russya-FAKE NEWS. !

US Official and Chinese Government Official in Rome

         The US official, Nat. Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, will meet in Rome today with his Chinese counterpart to discuss Ukraine and Russia's request to China to assist Russya economically and also to supply military hardware such as drones and missiles. Chinese president Xi Jin Ping knows that his economy is trying to improve and any sanctions from the West would stall growth in GDP, essential to economic improvements in China. If the West perceives China aiding Russya in Ukraine, Pres. Biden would have full support of a divided US Congress to impose sanctions on China that would dampen any chance of growth to the Chinese economy. So far, China has denied that Russya has asked for help; but the world knows that the aggressive Russyan army is not rolling along as planned, but is confronting a very obstinate defense by the Ukrainian army, much of which has been trained by US military forces in the past 20 years.  In California alone, the California National Guard has had Ukrainians arrive in San Luis Obispo headquarters to learn about combat operations: logistics, communications, manpower, and combat tactics if and when(now) confronted by Russyan military forces on the ground.

Title of recent publication for foreign visitors to countries like Ukraine. Have any Russyans read this book?  It has a nice section on Russyan cultural quirks

Russyan General to be Held Responsible

      Who is Putin's defense minister? That would be General Sergei Shoigu. Another yes man and a Putin sychophant. He is the one who orders the troops to do what they are doing in Ukraine.  He sets policy. He provides the arms for the troops.  He maps out strategic moves that are approved by Mad Vlad. Shoot missiles into schools: approved.  Bomb hospitals: approved. Bomb civilian neighborhoods: approved. Take out energy generators: approved. Bomb escape routes from encircled cities: approved. Murder civilians: approved. Take no prisoners: approved. Cut off water supplies: approved. Cut gas pipelines for home heat: approved. And on and on.

      Gen Shoigu is a Russyan and he has inherited the epigenome found in all Russyans that predispose them to : MURDER of their own peoples. Read Anne Applebaum's "Gulag" for details. This book, along with the "Gulag Archipelago" of Andrei S., highlight the inhumanity that exists among Russyans toward their own. General Shoigu follows in the footsteps of many earlier tyrants who made names for themselves throughout Russyan history.  And why do the call Ivan the terrible?

Warriors Take to Nuggets

      Well, Denver fans had high hopes last night: Golden State hasn't been playing up to expectations and have lost quite a few as the season winds down to the playoffs.  But despite the lack of oxygen in the Mile High City, the Warriors took it to their host with determined play, good defense, and some hot hands. By hot hands we mean shooters who could score, almost at will.  The usual suspects Curry and Thompson did their part.  But the bench players made the big difference.

       Jordan Poole: 21 points and many assists.

       Kaminga, the rookie, 18points in 22 minutes.

       Looney: 10 points.

       Curry: 34 points in game, 24 points in 2nd half!

       Clay T.: 18 points in 33 mins.

    Coach Kerr continues to display his mastery of the game as he rotates his starters with the bench players to blend talent as needed to overcome opponents efforts to defeat the Golden Staters(Dubs). And, with the season soon to end, it was announced that team leader Draymond greene will be back in the lineup next week. Go Warriors.

First Ukraine Then :Alaska?

       Hmmmmm. Mad Vlad likes to expound on the similarities between his prisoners at home(Russyan Slavs) and those soon to be prisoners in Ukraine(Slavs, new). As a result of his position, starkly held against reason; he justifies murdering civilians to ensure those citizens of an independent country. So, we have a dictator telling the world that Russya has every right to take over a neighboring country despite signing guarantees over 20 years ago that the independence would be respected after turning over all nuclear weapons.  Would Putin have performed this tragedy if Ukraine had nuclear capabilities? probably not.

        The Kremlin and its demented leader makes a false case of Ukraine being historically part of the state of Russya and has been a part for centuries. He sights historical figures: CAtherine the Great(Ha!), Peter the Great, Alexander the Great, Stalin the Great, Lenin the Great, Kruschev the Great as leaders of Ukrainians.  This means, that Putin could set his sights on: (believe me!) ALASKA! Few Americans living today can recall Russyan ownership of the Great State of Alaska(aka-Seward's Folly). Russyan ships extended their reach shortly after American independence. Ships seeking fur bearing mammals discovered untapped resources(by Europeans) on the west coast of North America.  (Areas we call Alaska, Washington, Oregon, and California). These sailors/explorers saw gold in otter hides and beaver hides running around the coastal inlets. Next thing one knew, Russyan settlements were established as far south as Bodega Bay, California, near a river subsequently named the Russyan River as it exists today. A few miles north of Bodega Bay, a fort was built at an inlet, known to day as Fort Ross.  A church was built, and homes also for residents.  Ft. Ross was built in a section of the state known for cold, windy, foggy weather.  Not the most hospitable spot on the coast. Had the sailors moved 100 miles south, they would have found at least Monterey Bay and its Spaniards. But better weather. In Alaska, similar establishments were made along the coast nearest Mother Russya.  Even Sarah Palin, former Republican candidate for Vice President, claimed she could "see" Russya from her home in Vasily, AK(Russyan roots?). All this makes a case for Russyan claims of cultural attachment to the locals who occupy Alaska.  What would Joe Biden do if Russyan Marines landed in Anchorage and reclaimed their cultural heritage? No doubt, he'd order sanctions against Russyan businesses.

Get ready for the Baltics to be declared Russyan historical lands. 

      Note: locals in Sonoma county, California, have started circulating a petition to change the name of today's Russyan River to something/anything else! Local bridges are wearing blue and yellow colors honoring the Ukrainian peoples.

Rubles: Not a Wealth Storehouse

       As the world(as in every country outside Russya) turns the Russyan economy upside down, the ruble, the currency still in use in the largest country in the world, is in free fall.  It's value against the world's reserve currency-that would be the US Dollar, Mr. Putin, has plummeted by over 80% since he began the Ukrainian war. Why, you ask? Well, tis simple: as sanctions proliferate across the West, the effect is to drive ruble holders to liquidate those assets denominated in what has become essentially WORTHLESS!!!!!!!!!!!! Hmmmm. And Vova(aka Putin) seems to have planned things a bit differently.  It hasn't worked out exactly according to Plan Putin. Yesterday, the simpering, obstinate, useless creature, Sergey Lavrov, Russyan spokesman, spoke in Istanbul on the prospects of a cease fire in Ukraine to allow civilians to escape the continuing bombardment by Russyan army artillery.  The army of the Kremlin is laying waste to major Ukrainian cities: Kharkiv, Mariupol, and others, including the capitol, Kyiv, which is close to being surrounded completely.

       So, Russyans, are scrambling for the exits.  Thousands are boarding any flight they can get to fly to a refuge while this insanity continues.  The brain drain is real, and the cost in this realm will be extensive.  Scientists, educators, engineers, students who don't like Mr. Putin or his war are seeking relief wherever it can be found. I expect that many of the 4,500 students in the US with visas from Russya will seek asylum.  Sadly, their requests will be denied by all consulates and embassies throughout the US and the EU.  Go home, Ivan and Svetlana, your time to face Vladimir's "new" diplomatic game.

Amur River in Russyan Far East: 11 time zones from Moskova

San Francisco Robots: Look Out!

        Given that "Baghdad" by the Bay"(as the late Herb Caen called it) is the world leader in tech(can't say ground zero today), it's not surprising that robo-taxis have been approved for street use. Woe the poor pedestrians. Traffic in SF is bad without this additional hazard. One can imagine the pundits lurking about the busy intersections, waiting like buzzards for a "road kill".  Two companies will have a chance to "test" their mettle: has all this investment been worth it? That is the question. Will paying passengers sit back in comfort or will they be on the edge of their seats(and properly belted)? Can fear be overcome? What will happen when the novelty wears off? How will the price increase in gasoline affect cost? Hmmmmm. 

    I don't think a huge per gallon price jump(more of them) can possibly help. $6./gal is here.  And $7/gal. will soon follow. And $8.? That's what consumers in EU have been paying for years.  Ever notice the huge numbers of Fiat 500's? They take their economy compacts seriously, unlike their American cousins who prefer pickup trucks to compacts. 

     Give it time.  These robo cars must have an observer on board during movement in case control must be taken over. Hours of service operations have limits, and there are limits regarding weather conditions and no night time operations.  Seems a bit restrictive to me.  But I'm a mountain man: no urban ops for me!.

Good luck Waymo.

Irpin: Ukraine City of Death

         Hi! We're Russyan soldiers sent here to control the Nazi hordes. Have you seen any? What does a Nazi look like? You know, German.  They look like Germans: square jaws, blue eyes, blond hair, 6 feet tall, straight teeth, polished nails, nice uniforms(grey or white, depending on season). So, we are here in Ukraine to save the citizens from being overrun and tortured by Nazis.  That's our mission: saviors of the Ukrainian people. Oh, wait a minute.  There is no "Ukrainian people".  We were told you are,in fact, like us, or you are us. We are you and you are us. Hmmm.  Well, that's what General Gerasimov said when he told us to shoot all Nazis we see. Sorry about your dead family.  War is hell. Tomorrow will be better: No Nazis. You should cheer us, since we're all Russyans. Don't be angry about losing your house, your town, your schools, your hospitals, your neighbors, your car(s), your livelihood.  Mother Russya will provide as she  always has.  Mr. Putin, our Leader, guarantees your future. Send him thanks.

Be Happy.

Russyan Export Products

        Gas and oil, gas and oil, and more gas and oil.  How much?  About 1 billion dollars a day if you're counting.  In a way, consumers are buying Putin the hardware he is employing in Ukraine.  Yes, even in the US, Russyan oil finds its way into our gas tanks.  BUt in Europe, those Russyan energy products allow the EU to function somewhat normally by our standards.  Gas for heating and cooking, oil for fuel. In fact, as sanctions descend on the Russyan economy, those sources of energy have not been affected. To keep the oil flowing, payment streams have been allowed to continue unabated.  Putin knows what he's got here: a monopoly. The EU and U.S. both are negotiating with Saudis, Venezuelans, Iranians, and maybe Libyans to step up production in light of Russya's invasion of Ukraine.  Time will tell if there's any success here.

      What else is the Kremlin exporting?  Hmmmm. How does one define an army on the attack and using indiscriminent acts of violence against defenseless civilians? An army of MURDERERS.  And they are led by MURDERERS. Gen. Valery Gerasimov.  Keep an eye on him: he may be recalled.  The attack has slowed. Among the Russyan soldiers is a contingent of civilians or more commonly called merceneries. They are part of a group of pseudo-private paramilitary Russyans who answer only to their boss(es). The boss: Yevgeny Prigozhin, aka Putin's chef. And Lt. Col.Dimitry Utkin; and Col.Konstantin Pikalov. The group or business was founded in 2014 to aid forces in eastern UKRAINE. Since then, members have been seen in other places, such as the Central African Republic.  They provide security for the country's president and also secure mining operations in at least 3 other sites outside of the capitol of Bangui.  Russyans like diamonds and gold, chief among products mined in the country, a former French colony, and which continues ties to Paris. Reports abound of actions of Wagner group members joining C.A.R. units that terrorize locals in their efforts to control isolated rebel groups who seek to oust government leaders seen as corrupt. Estimated numbers have reached as many as 10K members, but, no exact figures are available.

Mr. Putin, exporter

 

Who's Who in Russyan Army: Gen. Valery Gerasimov

    Who's responsible for the devastation in Ukraine?  We know, as does most of the European powers, the US, and the average Ivan on the streets of Moskova and St. Petersburg. It's General of the Army Valery Gerasimov.  He's been around awhile.  Looking over his bio indicates he's one of Mad Vlad's henchman. A yes man, to be sure. And now he is the face behind the war crimes going on in Ukraine. He took over in 2012, replacing his old predecessor who retired.  And, when the time came to stir things up in the DonBas region of eastern Ukraine, Old Valery(he's 66) took up the banner of the Motherland(Old Ma Russya). Oh, and Crimea also, as a package deal because Vova likes the warm weather, as do his 'babes".  So, we have a "criminal" at work here during the invasion of an independent country in Europe. Civilians are targeted because they are easy prey-no defenses there.  Cities are targeted because they are stuck in Ukrainian mud. The defenders are spread out and poorly equipped; it's basically a cake walk.  Vova rattles around the Kremlin issuing threats that NATO and Joe B. take seriously enough to give us room to manuever and pretty much do as we please.  Ah, a soldier's dream come true. But we are Russyan, and this is what we do.

   Mr. Gerasimov, a well paid officer, has been sanctioned by just about everybody.  I think Tahoma will be adding him to our sanctions list: no vacations on the West Shore of Lake Tahoe.  No ski lessons for the son, none for the wife, and none for you, either, General.  Nyet, nada, niente. Don't even ask.  You're done.  Dead to us.

      The media is getting good feeds from the front line areas now under siege.  Hmmmmmm.  And how do you explain away murder, General? It's clear to the world you and your troops are MURDERERS.  Yes, you are.  We will not forget.  You now rank up alongside the very Nazis you routinely call out.  You must revel in your own Nazism. And this, the 21st Century.  But, as I mentioned, you are Russyan.  Probably your own Father was involved in the takeover of Finland in September of 1940. Or maybe(long list of places)........Recall the G

reat War of 1914-1918.  Russya and Czar was part of the allied effort to halt the Kaiser's European takeover plans. And then, Russya decided it was time to go home and deal with the "revolution".  Too bad, Allies, but we're done.  The Eastern Front suddenly had a vacancy, an empty hole that was promptly filled with---Germans!!!  Poor Italians were hung out to dry.  Sad, but hey, they were Russyan then, as they are now.  Ridiculous, really. Pathetic, actually.

       So, the I.C.C. is drawing up the papers right now.  Gen. Valery will find it hard to hide once the dust settles.  Being a sanctioned individual, he can't hide.  When Vova shitcans him, he'll want to join his billions in the City of London.  But now, Bo JO says it won't happen.  What about his house in Kensington? Oh, now a homeless shelter.  His bank account(s).  Frozen, like the movie.  Queen Elizabeth II won't have any sympathy for him or any other sanctioned individuals.  No, not this time, not ever.  You will spend the rest of your life in --------Moskova, Ha!                     

     

Gavin Newsom to Legislature: We Need Action on Homeless

    More action?  Well, new action.  He's asked state legislators to write a law that establishes a court to hear cases of mental health conservatorships.  The goal is to force those with mental illness into state mandated conservatorship which would force them to submit to medical treatment without the ability to refuse.

     It's about time! The citizens of California have been stymied by the state's refusal to take back the streets of cities and towns that have been given over to the mentally ill.  Case in point: the City of San Francisco.  This beautiful place, home to tech billionaires and their minions, has become a cesspool of mentally ill street people who are without constraint on any of their activities.  The police department has backed away; the D.A. has backed away(and will soon be recalled), and businesses and tourists have left town in droves.  Only the health service continues in its mission: providing assistance to those who show up.  Drug over dose deaths are soaring; fentynal has taken the lives of hundreds of drug users, and the base of operations of drug sales and use continues unabated in the Tenderloin area of the inner city. All the social programs haven't made any impression on the problem.  Unless and until the State and the federal government start using their power to take back the streets and create a livable environment, all productive, law-abiding citizens are at risk.  The once most-loved City, will continue in its downward spiral, or death spiral.

     Can Gavin produce results?  Ha, not a chance.  The lightweight can't compose a decent plan for anything.  In a one party government, there's no need to be creative or competent.  Time for a lot split.

Mariupol: Russya Targets Civilians

        Russyan army units are firing indiscriminately into the coastal city of Mariupol on the Sea of Azov. An agreement was reached to allow a "green Corridor" passage for civilians to exit the city.  However, Russyan artillery continues to hammer the green zone, preventing civilians to move out of the city.  These actions will be listed on the charge sheet against Mad Vlad and his military leaders.  They all will face trial for mass murder when the war is concluded. The Kremlin and its lever pullers will have to answer.  No doubt, Xi Jin Ping of China will force these perpetrators to answer for their crimes against humanity. While the day of reckoning is not at hand, it certainly will be.

        How hard is it to kill a snake?  Folklore has many tales about the difficulties of killing a serpent.  Chop off its tail, it keeps squirming.  Cut the reptile in half, it wiggles and wiggles some more.  The only sure way to stop all of these movements is:  remove the head from the rest of the body. Until that is done, the nerves keep the snake in motion and still dangerous(if a viper).

      In the case of the Russyan army, the serpent will continue in action until the head is removed.  Hmmmm. The Kremlin?   Way back in the 90's, as the USSR was retreating into its implosion, the Kremlin negotiated with Ukraine on giving up its own nuclear arms.  This was in exchange for recognized sovereignty and independence from Russyan state that remained.  Would Russya have attacked a nuclear power on its doorstep?  Probably not.  Hence, we have a regional bully invading a smaller state without fear of serious retaliation.  Other countries are taking note.  Hello, Israel. hello, India.  Hello, Pakistan. Hello China.

      The world watches as the poor wretches in Mariupol dodge Russyan artillery and missiles that are raining down on them in their homes.  The world stands by; all reminiscent of another time, another war, another mad man in the beginning of WW II.

Highway 50: Now Open

        Good news, Tahomans!  Highway 50 has reopened: Cal Trans did it right.  They correctly assumed that the 200 ton + boulder needed a size reduction before any serious attempt could safely be made for its removal.  So, bring in the Powder Monkeys!  That's an old mining term for those individuals and crews that were the point men in a hard rock mine that was being actively worked.  They had expertise using dynamite, TNT, and other explosives. Today, they have many options other than the old standbys, and these products are safer, more reliable and more effective in tight situations.  For a boulder on the highway, they needed some precision.  The monkeys brought their drills, penetrated the rock in a few key spots, and injected their formulated product, and voila! Boom! Low percussion; rock splits into manageable pieces.

      Highway Open.  Conduct business now with the Great Office of El Dorado County in the seat of Placerville.  Sadly, it looks like the West Shore residents south of Pine will have to continue to make this difficult trek. 

Highway 50: Closed

     CalTrans announced minutes ago that highway 50 over Echo Summit is now closed to aall through traffic due to a rock slide.  Because od the size of some of the rocks, heavy equipment will be needed before any traffic will be allowed to pass.  So, my Dear Tahomans, should you be among the unfortunate few who must go the the El Dorado County seat in Placerville, down the hill, start early, it will be a long ride and a long day. I  think it's time for another look at reattaching Tahoe's West Shore portion of El Dorado county to our near neighbor, Placer County(on the north side of Pine St, so that this ongoing geographical issue can be cured once and for all.  It seems supervisors(largely from 'down the hill' see it only in terms of dollars and cents, and little "common sense".

        Do they know what the boundaries are of their respective counties?  Perhaps not.  But for us who choose to live by our lake, a boundary line adjustment makes eminent good sense.

Russyan Army: Confused Children

         Confused children: a wonderful description, really.  It was used by the president of Ukraine to describe----- Russyan soldiers who have invaded his country. Why this description? Because it describes the actions of the invaders themselves.  Well, now, what do the officers think of their troops in the field? Perhaps they, the troops, can follow orders.  

   Ok, Ivan, shell the hospital.  Now, Ivan, shell the school buildings, oh, and take out the church next to it.  Boris, blow up that bridge(and overlook the foot traffic).  See the airport runway, put some holes down the center.  See that large government -type building, direct a few airstrikes there, too. These orders follow patterns of the Russyan military in the field for years.  No matter where they operate, they operate using their own rules of engagement(yes, there are such rules). With the Russyan army, civilians are fair game(sadly). Probably a holdover from the Great Patriotic War of the mid-20th century against their former friends and allies-the Nazi hordes. Let's not forget, Uncle Joe Stalin was in bed with Hitler for a couple of years in the beginning, then Adolf turned on his original target, Stalin and Russya. As Russya became desparate, they created new rules of engagement: any German was fair game, no matter.

        So, in Ukraine, we see more of the same tactics in play.  Urban dwellers in Ukraine face missiles and artillery shells raining down on cities, neighborhoods, institutional buildings, including schools and churches, or wherever victims might be found. This, my friends, is the personification of TERRORISM. Yes, the Russyans are terrorists, and Mr. Putin is their leader or, put differently THE ARCH TERRORIST. He will be made to answer for this inhumane treatment of people even he calls part of his world.  This extreme behavior has all the earmarks of insanity.  Psychiatrists avoid distant diagnoses as unprofessional, and one would be hard pressed to read the results of such an examination, even on the internet.  But snippets exist, and Putin's advisors know the truth: he's not now among those who think rational thoughts. A million Ukrainians have fled the country as Kyiv has been encircled by Russyan troops and their weapons.  The final siege has already begun.  We'll watch in horror as the inhabitants of this great city are reduced to wailing victims of terrorism and murder by the forces of the Kremlin.  Putin can now be identified as a mass murderer.  He deserves to pay for his crimes.  The world watches and keeps account.

Firefighters Doing Their Job

         One can watch a video(s) on many media sights that include pictures of firefighters pouring water on a burning building in Kyiv, set afire by Russyan missiles and/or artillery from positions at the city's perimeter.  It highlights the dedication of these men and women who see it as their duty.  Duty: a little word with large meaning and impact.  No doubt, their are Russyan  army adherents to "duty" as they pursue tactical goals in their front. Do these troops, as they advance, understand the pain and suffering they are inflicting on helpless civilians?  The firefighters don't ask these questions.  They do their "duty": to save lives, protect property, without regard for their own lives. Recall the "blitz" that Germany inflicted on London and England at the start of WW II: bombers at night, flying west across the English Channel from fields in the western reaches of the Reich.  At first, they focused on military targets; and then, all targets became one-civilian and military. W. Churchill vowed to fight and never surrender. Fire brigades in London fought fires during the Blitz and more than a few died in the cities as they poured water on raging fires.   Could these brave firefighters in Kyiv highlight the resolve of all Ukrainians? Are they 'just' doing their jobs or do they exemplify national resolve? Time will tell as the missiles keep falling.

        The EU is now willing to arm as many Ukrainians as possible.  They are now in the fight, like it or not.  Mad Vlad will take notes: his little brain will set a tripwire for his measured response in due time. When the USSR collapsed/imploded in '89-'91, a great sigh of relief could be heard around the world(excepting in China).  Baby Boomers outside of Russya woke to a new world-a world without the treat of nuclear annihilation.  We scrapped plans for a residential bomb shelter; air raid sirens were left to rust and topple from their perches; evacuation route signs were replaced with vacation vista points. It was a time of collective euphoria. Then, "9/11" happened, and a new menace emerged from the Middle East: unhinged imams and religious fanatics cast a pall over the West and all of of Islam became a threat. The West lost its focus, and is now confronted with another "fanatic" in the form of a former KGB operative who has engineered the takeover by the largest country in the world.

       Thomas L. Friedman, the noted journalist offered 3 possible outcomes in a column today.  None are pleasant to contemplate; but, as we know, these situations have a beginning and at some point, will have an end: the unknown, dark future. Members of high positions in various military systems  play "war games" to test theories and strategic moves(War Colleges). They challenge each other to invent possibilities and outcomes, to think about "what ifs".  What if Putin moves against Kyiv? We don't know what solutions came from these "games", but as we and the world watch, the solutions will eventually unfold. Did Putin play war games? No, but his generals certainly did.  Firing missiles into civilian neighborhoods: 1st law of war broken.  Targeting schools and hospitals; 2nd law of war broken; trampling refugees, 3rd law of war broken; preventing organized medical aid and food relief for victims, 4th law of war broken. It seems the International Court of Law will have its work cut out for it as they attempt to identify violations and those responsible for the death and destruction being heaped on innocents in the path of the troops in Ukraine.

         We must all look in the mirror and acknowledge we dropped the ball when the Little Madman marched into Crimea in 2014 and took over; and then the DonBas and Kuznets areas of eastern Ukraine. We didn't want to shake things up: bad for business! say the Swiss bankers and Wall St., and the City of London. And politics in the West were being turned over- new leaders were emerging in Germany, France, England, Canada, and the US(with the largest upheaval). Trump's ascendancy signaled to the world that the US was now a sharply divided United States, willing to risk everything on a neophyte politician without the least interest in governing for the people. So, some world leaders, you know who they are, decided that the landscape had changed, and leadership was no longer a given, everything was in play- or, it's a good time to shake things up.

        Joe Biden has his moment(s). Most presidents get at least 1 moment; Joe has at least 3 that we know of: Covid, inflation, and Ukraine/Russya. Oh, and low ratings and midterm elections around November. They all will keep him busy for at least another 3 years.  You won't find Joe on the golf course ala Eisenhower; you won't find Joe at the tiller near Hyannis Port, nor will you find Joe on a peanut farm preparing a sermon for Sunday school. Joe will be found conferring with Senators, Congressmen and women, and a few generals as he seeks wisdom and understanding. He won't be able to escape the internet and its media content; he'll be constantly reminded of the weight of the world as it presses down on his shoulders. Fortunately, he has lots of help. He'll need it.