Avalanche: California Style Tragedy

     It made headlines; it was a tragedy in nature; it was caused by natural forces; it killed 9 people, mostly middle-aged women.  Given the magnitude of the event, the number of deaths, and the location, it was bound to be reported broadly by media outlets.

     The New York Times covered the event in depth with photos, maps, and interviews of survivors, of which there were six. Three of the six were dug out of the snow mass by 3 other survivors who escaped the tide of displaced snow. The nine others were unable to be rescued in time to save their lives.

   Growing up in Northern California, one hears of the fate of The Donner Party. The story is a pioneer story of immigrants moving to California, chasing the dream of a new, more prosperous life in a land of plenty, a beautiful, magival place with giant trees, endless farmland, a bountiful ocean shore, peaceful indigenous tribe members, and empty space. Most hadn't heard of Yosemite, Lake Tahoe, or the Sacramento River. But they did know of the Sierra, its heights and crests and what could be bitterly cold winters with huge amounts of snow that stays around for months.

      So, off they go, risking everything: California or Bust. And they missed the window and got caught by the winter snow. They were stuck in  the Truckee area, near Donner Lake. They couldn't move-not east to Nevada nor west to Sacramento valley. They were at the mercy of elements. Some died. Some survived. Some resorted to cannibalism. One survivor, Mr. Reed, arrived in the Santa Clara Valley where he prospered,and lived the 'dream'. He gave his name to Reed St., near San Jose State College.

    The group of skiers were guided by Blackbird Mountain Guides, a local organization that specializes in back country ski experiences. The skiers had done similar tours and were not inexperienced. But, they relied on the hired experts who had training in alpine skiing in fresh powder, the goal of the group. They were targeting Frog Lake, alpine puddle of sorts, above '8000'ft.  When they arrived, the guides and party members realized that the storm would dump several feet of new snow. The guides decided it would serve all members well to leave the cabins and return to the parking lot where they started. Ample warnings had been issued.  

Russya Sending More Missiles to Ukraine

    As the world turns away from Ukraine and focuses on Iran, the Kremlin is nervous: the Rus might just be forgotten and relegated to second or third tier position. Mad Vlad(VOVA) doesn't like being ignored. He likes to be well known and well positioned for status and renown. Bagh, his Bromance partner, strumpie has moved on, was expected. He doesn't focus well anytime. Plus, he's old, older than Mad Vlad, can't focus, short term memory issues

     So, the Rus generals have new orders from the Onion Tops of the Kremlin: more missiles, more drones, more harassment of the eastern regions of Ukraine, the city of Kharkiv specifically. Another apartment building was destroyed yesterday. It will be noted that international orgs will keep a record of this assault and h old the Kremlin responsible. Nobody will forget these crimes against humanity; this bold, illegal aggression, now 4 years later, will be front and center after VOVA kicks the bucket.

      It is not unusual for dictators to assume there will not be a reckoning.  Recent events have changed the equation. So, will Putin be held accountable? Of course; he'll be put on trial and convicted of war crimes, and crimes against humanity. He'll be noted as another failed leader, forever. His children will live with the stain, aka the Scarlet Letter.  

Cuba: Get Ready

    So, our island neighbor off the Florida coast has enjoyed its isolation for over 60 years. Since the cut-throat brothers, Fidel and Raul Castro, took over by force, a Communist utopia has called the shots with the Communist dictatorship. After decades of financial support, the Rus from across the globe have essentially abandoned the island, leaving it at the mercy of surrounding countries, eg. the USA.

      Over the decades, many Cubanos have fled the "utopia" for more fertile environments, those places where the air of freedom seems better to breathe on a regular basis. As opposed to the stifling heat and humidity of the island hell scape. Yes, the country trains doctors; yes, health care is available. However, most of the trained medicos go abroad where their training is helping to prop up the dictatorship with remittances provided by those same doctors.  Venezuela also is a recipient of Cuban assistance. The Cuban secret police have helped the former dictator(now in US jail) Nick Maduro, maintain control in Caracas after Hugo "Chavez" died in a Cuban hospital. Things were not good in Venezuela either.

     Now we have a new sheriff in the White House(Casa Blanca): sTrump. He's different, obviously.  First Venezuela, next Iran, then----CUBA. First-no more oil/no more gasoline. Economy stops; people revolt, again. Sec. of State, Marco Rubio, could be the next Governor of Cuba. He's a Cubano; a transplant in Florida, an immigrant success story. Trumpie likes the idea of turning the Cubans loose from the yoke of Communism. Wouldn't that be a nice gesture. He might even get an official 'peace' prize.

      The local economy on the island has always been sketchy, dependent on tourism, mostly Canadians, some Americans despite travel bans(via Mexico, ok). Agriculture is another driver but that is insufficient generally(poor soils, too hot, too humid, too steep, too, too, too much). If only......

       Now would be the time, given the war in Iran, the war in Ukraine, the war in Lebanon, the war in Pakistan, the war in Sudan. The world is awash in conflict, again. Here at home, we have our own conflict(s): see White House construction, see Minneapolis, see Texas, see California. And the midterm wars are coming, stoked by biased media and AI. What fun. 

Oh, and the World Cup starts in 90 days. get ready for those "simulated" war games. 

California: Home of the Brave, Land of the Free

      Well, the Supremes didn't take long to issue a ruling for California, Land of Blue. The issue:

Parental Rights, as in does a school have to the right to keep parents in the dark(no info) about a child's 

decision to change sex identity. A local judge issued a ruling that parents must be informed. The 9th Circuit court of Appeals, issued a stay on the ruling, saying it was overly broad(we can almost always count on this "Blue" bench). The Supremes issued a stay on the 9th Circuit, stating w/o signing, that its order will not fly until all the issues are discussed in the lower court. California's Bluest Attorney General, Rob "Listen to Me, Please" Bonta, said that the Court misread the law. Hmmmm. Thank you, Rob. Back in the box. 

      Some teachers decried the law as putting them in the position of being 'gender police', not teachers. The big issue is age -related decision making. Does a child(under age person) have the right to make life altering, permanent decisions?  Reason dictates, as stated in many laws, that children are just that-children, and cannot make those decisions until of age. Ok.

Try again, Rob, and GAvin. 

Wake Up, Hezbollah

   So, the terrorist group, Hezbollah, has been hammered by Israeli forces as the Middle East staggers into widespread conflict. After Israel and the US attacked soft and hard targets over the weekend, other assets were also targeted for destruction.

     In Lebanon, Hezbollah concentrations(weapons, troops, communication sites) were on the list for destruction. Given the situation in Iran as outside actors decided the Ayatollah was stalling as he has, it was time to act to prevent further delaying tactics. The Ayatollah and his unit leaders and defensive unit commanders were wiped out in Tehran when they gathered to discuss the price to be paid for negotiating with the US. The price they are now paying is a down payment for what is to come soon enough.

    The Ali Khamenei Supreme Leader of the past 37 years has played his last card, forever. He has been assassinated and many Iranians welcome his downfall. This comes on the heels of the Iranian government's murderous assault on its own citizens who protested against the regime and its inability to quell inflation as sanctions imposed from outside has ruined the local economy. The Supreme Leader is not an economist, but a dictator clinging to power with the support of the IRGC(Revolutionary Guard Corps.  They murdered thousands of Iranians who took to the streets asking the government to  do something as they collectively struggled to live under these conditions. The Supreme Leader is now gone, forever. Well, he did have 37 years at the wheel. Now, somebody new will take over, if they dare. The life span of the "new" leader will be brief unless he talks with the invading attackers who no longer will accept stalling as their primary tactic. Now, they are learning what a determined negotiator looks like. They aren't used to this type of negotiator. They are now, sort of. And he's not done yet. With aviation assets at his disposal, he can control the hostile environment as he sees it.

     Poor people will suffer, including Iranians who have accepted this regime for 37 years, and the revolution for over 50 years. The time for change has arrived in Iran. 

Good luck.   

Pakistan Shells Neighbor

    So, a 3rd worlder shells a fourth worlder. What happens? People die.

    This is what happens without dialogue. A dispute, real or imaginary occurs. Leaders decide something after assuming something on flimsy evidence. Bombs and artillery are rolled out and fired away. The impact points are rarely strategic, just fireworks to intimidate and harass" we're here, don't ess with us message.

      So the poor poppy growers huddle in fear; the militant Taliban crazies jump around and scare eveybody, the the Pakistanies fire their guns. Normal border diplomacy in that neighborhood.  Are the PAkistanies our frioends? Check the weather: which way is the wind blowing-east or west or north and south? Nobody really cares, but since the Pakistanies talk a good game, sometimes there's a benefit to listening. Usually not as they are experts in concealment of truth and manage to hide true intentions from the outside world.

      At least this time, the conflict is specific with cross border belligerents. The wackos in Afghanistan will run around screaming and blowing things up as they always do, hoping the activities don't interrupt sales of their crop this season.

     Now with Israel and the US dealing with Iran, Pakistan is not on page one. It joins Ukraine and Crazy Mad Vlad on page 3 or 4.  Greenlanders and Danes are happy, they are on page 5 or 6.  China is on page 8-or 9, and India didn't make the edition at all.

   Tariffs are in the business section and the Paramount farce is in the arts and entertainment section where it belongs for those few nerds that are interested in media.  

    It's the 1st of March, springtime is just around the corner. 

Good Morning, Iran

    So, here we go again. What next will flow from the Oval? Nobody knows, and the few that might, aren't talking. How about Hegseth, SecDef? What's he saying? How about Homeland Security Chief, what's she saying? And Marco, how about him?

    The elections are 8 months away; things will happen after we rid Congress of the weakliings, old goats, snappy dogs, oxygen suckers, senile turds, fake legislators, check cashers, and friends-of-pimps.

       American service men and women are performing their respective roles at "the Tip of the Spear'.   I've been there and it's not pretty-it's very lonely and there is no tomorrow at the tip-only the 'now'.

     Maybe some nay sayers will make statements; a few might, but most won't because they fear the wrath of the Imbecile-in-Chief, a man who belittles the office he occupies daily.

      Will Iran roll over? Will the Iranian protesters return to the streets to seek an alternative government to the current regime that has punished the population for over 40 years?  Hmmm. Will the Guards continue to support the regime against their own people in the face of a crumbling power government?

     It could take awhile before the dust settles. There will be no invasion so the Mullahs and Ali might just sit this one out and wait; wait until the Boob and his lackeys go home again. It certainly won't last since the USA has no troops to expend this time, unlike in Afghanistan, Iraq, Vietnam, and other far flung locations.  Maybe Hegseth will pull a rabbit out of his hat and walk over Tehran. Sorry, Pete, there are no more US troops available. The USMC is down to 160,000 active, with about 35,000 infantry with support. The US army is totally dependent on the National Guard, without which it could not function at all. The public is unaware of this critical situation and Pete the Boob isn't about to yell to Congress to fix it. The Oval is also unaware or else Boob-in-Chief wouldn't be flexing his muscles, weak as they are.

    Recruiters here are similar to those recruiters in Russya- go after anybody with a pulse; we don't need geniuses, only bodies willing to die in exchange for a family payout.  Empty the prisons and reform schools, we need bodies to feed the "grinder". Lovely people in the Kremlin and the Pentagon. Look out migrants, I.C.E. is not coming, it's the recruiters offering citizenship for military service. 

Lovely, all.   

Who is the next "Dear Leader" of Iran system? 

Supremes Stay Seated After Speech

     The Supreme Court justices attended the State of the Union last night in DC. They played the Stoic position: don't move, stare straight ahead.

      At the end, the audience stood up and applauded: not the Supremes. 

Has Lufthansa Freed the Passengers Yet

       Where are the trapped 500 passengers, stranded on the Munich runways? Where , oh, where have they gone today?

Ukraine Peace Talks

    Peace? Talks? Russya? So, the war enters year 5. Yes, it's been over 4 years since MAd Vlad invaded his neighbor, Ukraine. How's it going, VOVA? NOt so good. He's emptying prisons with offers of pardons. Russ thugs are taking the bait, figuring with luck, they can survive the trenches in east Ukraine. Better than rotting in a Rus prison with all the other murderers and thieves and rapists.

    Yes, recruiting has become an issue for the Kremlin hypocrites.  Can they offer a time frame for the war? No. Can they offer a logic for the war? No. Well, what can they offer? The Usual Rus fake history. The puppets offer the false narrative that they are battling the US and the Western powers(Europe). Rus are victims, again.  Oh, so tiresome. Seems it's built into the Rus cultural history: we get no respect from the West; so, we must attack.

      How'd that workout with partner Adolf? Not so much. Perhaps Old Joe had mental illness and saw visions that scared him into a corner from which he had to murder millions of his own people to quell the nightmares. Who knows; who cares? Not the Rus.

     Peace talks? Not part of the Kremlin game plan. Stall, lie, stall some more. 

      

C.D.C. Deputy Director Resigns

     Goodby and good riddance. Go back to the Louisiana swamps where you belong. This vaccine skeptic has no place in national politics where he has floated his bizarre theories about medical practices. Sadly, the loonies in Louisiana will probably welcome him home and find him a niche job so he can continue his strange practice.

     He's a Republican but even they couldn't abide his wacko ideas. Now that is saying something. Maybe HHS Head Robert KooKoo Kennedy, Jr. decided it was starting to smell in the office of the deputy and time to clean out the source of the smell: goodby Ralph.

      While in Louisina, he ran a rural clinic, doubling as a veterinarian, helping cats and dogs get proper vaccinations. Humans, not so much. How did he get to the national scene and why did he quit after 3  months?

      Not even worth the time to list all the deficiencies obvious to all.

Maybe sTump will mention Dr. Abraham in his speech tonight; maybe not. The question tonight is : will any Supremes show up to be ridiculed by Mr. Bluster? Doubt it.  

How Are Things Down Mexico Way

   So, the failed state of Mexico is back in the headlines, again. No, it's not 'caravans' of migrants riding the "beast' north to the border. No, it's not the US sending planeloads of Mexicans homeward; no, it's not another  I.C.E. raid on an apartment in Minneapolis .

     It's another extrajudicial killing in     MEXICO .

     The leader of the JAlisco Cartel was killed by government forces.  sTrump will no doubt mention this tonight in his address to the world. 

    President Sheinbaum will have made comments, especially in the aftermath of the killing that includes terrorist activities in Mexico. Mayor's advice: avoid Mexico until further notice. Be safe; be smart. Stay home, or go north.   

Lufthansa Nightmare in Munich :Today, Feb 23rd, 2026

   So, one of Europe's premier airlines is boarding passengers on one of their fleet aircraft. The door is closed; the pilots pull back from the gate; the plane starts to taxi on the apron of the runway. And then the control tower orders the aircraft to ---W A I T. And wait, and wait, and wait some more.

      Then all the ground crews depart leaving the aircraft S T R A N D E D on the runway. What about all the passengers and crew on board? They are left out there - alone. No ground staff are available.  It's such an empty feelonh. The MAyor has been stuck like this- for hours on the east coast of the US. Not fun. The airlines have taken big heat from the FAA over this very condition. There is no excuse.

    There's no excuse in Europe either. Lufthansa will have to pay- big time. The lawyers are already writing their court documents/ The Mass Media are on it. The assengers? who knows? Maybe the customer service folks will recall what decision tree they used during tis incident. Whatever decisions they made, we all know it was to benefit the airline, not those trapped like rats on the plane. Shame, shame on Lufthansa. Money will help to sooth the feelings; a LOT of money. Euros by the thousands, if not more. I would be very angry, to say the least. And the airport operator should also pay, big time.

    Commercial aircraft operators have rules. Break those rules- you pay. Oh, yes, it's the "cost" of doing business. Lucky for those passengers they were on the ground, not in the air. 

deadly Ski Season at Lake Tahoe

   So, certified back country guides lead a number of flat landers into the alpine forests at high elevations. Weather is forecast to be heavy snow. As the group proceeds to their destination, they pass another group high tailing the place for " safer" territory before the storm arrives. Hmmm.

      And then the storm arrives; the group is outside; the group encounters an avalanche, 9 members of the group are now dead. 6 members were rescued. Not a good outcome for the decision makers in the group.

     Then at Heavenly Valley resort, two skiers died after accidents on the slopes. At North Star Resort, another skier died of injuries suffered while negotiating the ski runs there.  Is there something we know or don't know about winter? It's cold in the Sierra during winter. It is now winter season there. If one doesn't live in the Sierra, one is vulnerable to decision errors. Oh, depending on the advice of hired locals, get ready to add more errors in the decision -making process.

  Stay healthy, avoid Lake Tahoe unless you know about winter. 

State of the Union

        The Oval Office Occupant will blab on today about how things are going. Can you imagine: a bumbling old fool will stand before the 334 millions of Americans and tell us how we are doing?

      Nobody with a brain will accept whatever this BOOB says. Most of it will be fiction, unmoored from our reality. MAybe Stven Miller, assistant Chief of Staff, wrote the speech. Or maybe that junior Boob, Steve Bannon, jail bird, ex-Navy dipshit, will come out of rathole to sprinkle a few bon mots into a speech "He" thinks we'd all like to hear. Or maybe the bizarre head of HHS, Robert F. Kennedy,Jr., will include a few nuggets about his latest fitness maneuvers , or maybe the Super Legal Beagle, Todd Blanche, will emerge from the other nearby rat hole and include a few legal tidbits to tease those waiting for a paedon or two.

    Whatever the BOOB says, including anything about the economy or tariffs, or the Big Beautiful Garbage Bil, don't believe it.

Thank you  

Overtime Victory: Again

      So, in your face, VOVA.

     The USA men's hockey team wins in the final. The GOLDEN GOAL. The first win in 46 years. 

Measles Outbreak Getting Worse by Day

     So,  measles getting out into the community in Spartanburg, South Carolina. The community has been on the radar of state and federal health organizations as the outbreak of the virus continues to expand among the local population, primarily among school age children, although some adults have contacted the virus and ended up in the hospital.

     The numbers indicate that 975 cases have been reported in the foothills of the Blue Ridge mountains in central part of the state. This is a conservative community with large numbers of vaccine skeptics and religious deniers who opt for the religious exemption available. Numerous children have been quarantined due to exposure to those infected with active cases.

     Local politicians are revisiting their positions on vaccinations as the obvious situation becomes more dangerous to all citizens in the city.  Whereas the virus was eradicated years ago, it renewed appearance has worried many professionals in the field who are very concerned aboput the public rejection of science and facts readily available. Public education has been an issue since the Covid pandemic which helped explain some positions of skeptics regarding vaccination. Where will this end? Nobody can predict, but some children may die as a result of these exemptions and exposures n a community. 

Canada V. USA Hockey at Olympics

    So, USA's northern neighbor has an opportunity to put some shine on the nation' s image. The match up between the USA and the Canadians is being hyped as the "big Game" on the hockey ice in Milano, Italia.

   The USA is the teamto beat and have given up the fewest points of any of the contenders. Switzerland's women's team edged out a strong Swedish team 1-0 to win the Bronze Medal. Sweden was the favorite to win a medal but they were bested by an aggressive group from the alpine redoubt.:

   Then the USA hit the ice with high hopes. The Maple leaf representatives came out ready to show the audience they could meet and match everything the southerners could muster. The Canadians scored and went ahead in the first period 1-0. That would be the only score through the rest of the contest until the last 2 minutes. The USA scored the tying goal : now 1-1-OVERTIME.

     Now the first score wins and in the fifth minute, USA player Keller put the puck in the net, game over. Gold to the USA. 

       

The Call For National Election Control

    The US Constitution assigns voting and election control to the states. Let me repeat: the Constitution assigns election authority to the  S T A T E S.

     Now DonOLd Sleepy wants to nationalize-take control in the White House-of federal elections. Hmmm. Who floated this balloon? Steve Bannon, ex-Naval Officer? or Steven Miller, aspiring director of National Everything? Or Todd Blanche, Deputy Attorney General in charge of ....? Or Kristi Noem, Homeland Security MAvin? Or Tulsi Gabbard, in charge of something-goats. Dogs?

     Maybe Kash Patel, gad about F.B.I. Director, told Sleepy that he had to do something to justify using government aircraft to fly around to see his girlfriend.

  Or maybe Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. wants to vote wherever he lands these days to promote vaccine skepticism among the deniers and local skeptics on virus control, despitre recent evidence that measles is on the upswing among deniers(see South Carolina).

     Ol Sleepy Donold has a busy agenda to reshape America into something different from what we're used to these days. Inflation? Forget it. The new Fed Chief, MArsh, will fall in line and correct the policy to what the Oval wants.  The economy will soar. (See gold prices/silver prices, copper prices). 

     Russya will soon opt to end the Ukainian invasion- running out of ammo and Xi JP has to retool arms factories to produce consumer goods for export. Oh, his economy is falling drastically also. Seems Beijing can't control the spending of the consumer-yet. You will buy, damn it. 

   So, the Oval put out another dictum to stir up the libs in the mainstream media. How about trumpie suing Jamie Dimond and JP Morgan for $5 billions? Or suing the I.R.S. for billions more? History will have great fun with Trump's legacy. He'll be gone in less than 3 years, if he makes it. Doubtful.

   Where is the USS Gerald Ford today? How about the ayatollah? How's he holding up under the pressure? Have a nice day, Ali. 

Rus Missiles Continue Deadly Impacts

     Cease fire? NO, not hardly. Ol' Mad Vlad says "Fire". Don't let up.  A missile fired 2 days ago into eastern Ukraine hit a bus. The bus was occupied. Those inside the bus were workers in regional coal mines, an Eastern Ukraine. This area has been under siege for 4 years with millions of casualties. Millions. That is, millions of dead and wounded on both sides, mostly Rus soldiers.

    Who cares in the Kremlin? Nobody. VOVA only reads his tea leaves, and only understands what he wants the leaves to say to his Rus brain. More killing, more killing. More killing. I want Ukraine now. Send in the North Koreans. Send in the Siberians, send in the conscripts. Don't send in the wealthy or my peeps. Only desperate job seekers.

   Will Putin be held accountable? Hardly. Remember, he's KGB. Master of Novichuk. Worried about winter's cold in Ukraine? Never. We don't care about winter. Let the locals freeze. Let our great soldiers warm themselves on fires of Ukrainian buildings. On to victory. Glory to Russya. Fight, fight, fight. Wheeeeeeeee.

China's Purging of Corrupt Military Leaders

    What's a 'normal' change of command look like around Peoples Liberation Army HQ? Why it looks like any other normal day excepting there are fewer soldiers with stars on their shoulders. Hmmm. Such conditions cause others to stare straight ahead as if nothing unusual has happened. Everything is fine. Continue on; do one's job. Be happy.

     So, the top dog got caught with his hand in the till, so to speak. What else is new. Graftand corruption is embedded deep in the Asian DNA. They are always looking for an edge, however it can be achieved. In Communist China, the Party apparatus has all the levers and all the money. Results, those Party people can't resist temptation. Who will miss just this little bit of Yuan? Nobody. So, Xi has to act.

     To the top general: You're out. Goodbye. Next. Who wants that job-nobody. In the PLA, the top slot is rarely held very long. Longevity  is not part of the position. The top general was joined by at least 3 others who were expelled from leadership roles. Retired, no doubt in some form or another. Perhaps these leaders were slow in formulating invasion plans. Or, maybe they were known to have talked with American Embassy staffers-always dangerous. It was announced that the top general gave away nuclear program secrets to the US. That's a no-no. Also, he may have extracted a payment or two from subordinates who wanted promotions. Hmmm. That's a no no.

     So Xi has to clean up his "strong" arm as he goes about the neighborhood making threats, butting heads, coercing cooperation, suggesting kowtowing.  Look over at Japan-it's new prime minister has said certain things that Xi objects to so he chastises her publicly.  Oh, and the Taiwanese: same-we will conduct drills all day long if and where we want to despite your protests.

   Ah, China, so much, so little.  And Trump-don't get me started says Xi.  

South Carolina: Measles Central in USA

   How does this happen? Dr. R. Abraham, No. 2 at the HHS under Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. , has the audacity to say this is the cost of doing business. My, my, my. What a statement to make to parents and families of those victims of this contagious disease. The Outbreak has infected over 800 citizens and has forced health officials to quarantine many times that number because of exposure to those infected already.

     Dr. Abraham is a known vaccine skeptic and has railed against requiring vaccinations for infants and others following his leader's position as a voice for those who object to vaccine requirements. And now, we have the results of this government led pullback for decades of public health success eliminiating the measles virus, one of the most if not the most contagious virus known.

   why South Carolina? Simple: ignorance among a susceptible population of  under educated citizens led by under educated politicians and health professionals. If I was a doctor in South Carolina, I'd packed my bags and leave the state immediately, if not sooner. How about those politicians who are from South Carolina and now reside in Washington, D.C. in Congress?     Sad, really. Will the tiny victims recover? Time will tell while their parents struggle to keep them alive.

Trump's America, not mine. 

What Happens When Police Are Militarized

    So, we have seen in living color what happens when police take on the look of the military persona: camo -colors; assault weaponry, helmets(don't forget helmets, a key element of the "look"; boots, gloves, flak vest/bullet proof vests, all design to intimidate opposition while instilling fear.

     Then put those 'uniforms' on ill-rained individuals, stir them up by 'role playing' instructions and orders and, voila'-you have Minneapolis results. Lets look at the leader of the whole mess: Gov. Walz, don't overlook his role; Ilhan Omar, elected representative in the House; and above all, Kristi Noem, head of Homeland Security. By the way, they are led by the No.1 Draft Dodger-in-Chief Darnold J. sTump.

     So, we have unprovoked assaults on Americans that ended in 2 deaths of innocent protesters. Alex Pretti was shot multiple times while on the ground , a threat to nobody or anybody while he was under restraint. Who shoots this person in this situation: a poorly trained, poorly led, confused agent, ordered to perform aggressively, and knowing he was being filmed. Fascist is too mild a label for any of these agents. Why can't Congress act?

      Our elected politicians have failed the American people, again. Time for a revamp of Congress. How? Expand the numbers to be more inclusive. Most Americans don't feel represented anymore. Most can't even name their representatives much less who they voted for (if they voted). There aren't enough voices in the House. The whole House is stagnant, unable to move in any direction. The Boob-in-Chief, Mike  Johnson, is a failure. Leader: NO. 

I.C.E.: We Are Coming to Italy

    So, Kristi Noem has a new area of concern: Italy. The Winter Olympics kick off in a week or so. Italian security forces need a little husstle-a little plumping up to thwart any interruptions during the games. So, here comes I.C.E. to lend a hand. They will check id's; oh, and if you don't have the right papers-get beat up, smashed to the ground, threatened with death and/or incarceration God knows where. But that 's Kristi Noem's area of expertise: dispensing fear to control angry mobs and illegals without papers. How will the Italians respond? They throw old pizza crusts in the faces of I.C.E. agents. As they deserve. Can you imagine?

     Was this thought through at DAVOS by Davos Man? Of course. He thinks of everything and anything-his job description.  Did you see the picture of Trumpie visiting the diner in Iowa? Dressed in a long black overcoat, he wowed the locals by telling it like it is: we are getting things done to MAke America Great Again. Boring. The crowd of diners who had their lunch interrupted didn't seem impressed at all. They wanted to hear more about the price of soybeans and wheat-the hell with I.C.E..

     Sen. Chuck Schumer made a speech yesterday in the Senate stating that they would not fund Homeland Security this session. Enough he said. WHy do we fund this group of thugs who are out of control and murdering American citizens. ANd Stephen Miller stating that Alex Pretti, the murdered protester in Minneapolis, was an assassin? Are you kidding me? Obviously, Stephen Miller has to go. Defund Stephen Miller now.  What a pathetic human being. And he's in the White House everyday? what an embarassment to all Americans anywhere. But this is what Trumpsters voted for and their co-conspirators: all those non-voters.

    Italians will have fun with I.C.E. They'll treat them like the old Fascists, put them in their place. Enough of Facsism: no more Black Shirts. No more Camo troops; no more assault on protestors. Enough. 

Iran: Economics Comes to Tehran

    The Ayatollahs are not economists. They aren't even decent politicians. What they are good at is repression, enforcing religious diktats. Follow our rules and live happily ever after. Not. So, the currency, the Rial, has reached a new low against the dollar. Not just any dollar, but an American dollar. It must really frost the Ayatollahs to find their national currency isn't worth as much as toilet paper.

   Iranians can wipe their collectives behinds with the Rial because it isn't worth the cost of toilet paper, now being sold at a premium.  My, my. How things have changed since the Iranians have taken to the streets. Oh, are they protesting a new Israeli attack? NO. Are they promoting more hatred of the USA? No. Are they upset with inflation? Yes, yes, yes. They can't afford toilet paper. How sad is that. Maybe now the leaders of this sad theocracy will change. Ha.

     Change? Now isn't that a novel approach to political action. Why change? Everything is fine. Oh, yes, there are somw economic factors that affect prices but it's only temporary. Where is Salman Rushdie when we need a scapegoat.  Sanctions seem to be working. The capture of "Shadow Fleet" oil tankers has upended the flow of oil from Russya to its clients here and there. Even Iran has noted these activities and they stand to lose more. And prices go up as costs go up. Oh, well it's only temporary. And the citizens will finally stop protesting in the streets causing traffic problems.  After killing 10,000 Iranians, maybe the protesters and agitators will stay home where they belong. The nerve: protesting against the Supreme Leader. What's that about; shut up.

   The New Iran-with Reza Pahlevi waiting in the wings to take over and restore a sad nation state taken over by wackos. 

Kristi Noem: Bye-Bye

      Homeland Security chief, Kristi Noem, has arrived at her limits. She has to go. She obviously has no leadership skills; has no clue about the role of her "army".   She has no control over her forces in the field. Even Trumpie realizes she's a problem.  Congress is ready to 'defund' her department.

     The behavior of her 'army' is not only un-American, but out of control. Whois leading these thugs? Who's calling the shots' They have no clue about their role. They do not understand limits placed u[pon them by the courts. Yes, we have judicial oversight of these pathetic animals.  The citizenry of the US does not deserve this.  Trumpie can name call all he wants, but the truth has escaped his observation. Don't ask him for specifics, he's too old to understand what's happening. The man is senile. All his statements only ser ve to underscore his mental shortcomings which are becoming more notoceable everyday.

     Oh, and his Republican base? They are hiding, laying low; maybe waiting until some of the dust settles before they hit the campaign trail for the midterms in November which is just around the proverbial corner. 

      This scatter gun approach to governing 340 millions is not working. The 3 branches of government are not operating in an acceptable manner. Each branch has raised barriers to outside scrutiny. The Executive branch has walled off the Oval. The Congress continues apace to shield itself from close examination with the party politics has frozen any serious legislation. The Judicial Branch flounders about, looking for a way forward as the judges appointed in the past, including the recent past, have performed as promoters of partisan divides. There is no evidence of a change or changes among them. 

    will impeachment happen? Time will tell, but the term is making its way around the Capitol Building.  

Minneapolis: Again

    So, I.C.E. agents kill another demonstrator in Minneapolis. Mr. Pretti, an American citizen. Not an illegal immigrant; not a terrorist, not an outside agitator, but a concerned citizen demonstrating his right to be heard in public and to let people know that what is happening in this country is not right.

     There's a message here in many forms. Local kow that the Federal government is being run by deranged people(take your pick). This crowd in the White house, the F.B.I., the Homeland Security Dept. are all anti-American. They want to scare the citizenry into a position of helpless acceptance of trumpism in all its forms, for better or worse. These are tactics of despots and their ilk.

     Gov. Walz of Minnesota has egg on his face and has declined to run for a 3rd term. This adds fuel to an already shaky situation. He does not want the situation to deteriorate further, but his control at this juncture is minimal. He could change and take to the streets and get arrested by I.C.E., but to what end?

    Where is Kash Patel? Oh, he went after the Canadian snow boarding cocaine King Pin in Mexico too busy. Where's Pete Hegseth, Def. Secretary? Oh, he's worried about the Gulf negotiations while hhis house is on fire. Where is RF Kennedy, HHS Secretary? He's worried about MMR vaccinations and the food chain-more meat and tallow in yer diet.

    Where's Bad Bunny? In the studio prepping for the halftime Show in Mountain View. Where's QB Darnold? Reviewing new plays for the game. Drake Maye? He's reviewing his W-2's for his tax consultant, and his playbook to thwart Darnold.

    Life goes on, but not for Mr. Pretti: he's dead, killed by I.C.E. in Minneapolis.   

Zelensky TAlks at DAvos

    President Zelensky of Ukraine says a peace deal is close. The Rus are finally willing to work some deal that might end the killing of innocent Ulkrainian civilians. Those poor people: subject to random murders by the Rus, those disgusting barbarians of the Steppes, unable to advance their culture beyond savage arttacks on near neighbors. They are beyond saving. The world does not need or want them. Hence their absence on the modern world stage.

     Mad Vlad Putin can't help his people or himself. Too bad. 

Tariff Man Says No Invasion of Greenland

 So, the Deal Maker-in -Chief says no military action over Greenland. Oh, dear. What's next from the mouth of an aging Boomer/ nobody can guess. The European s are beside themselves as Tariff Man says more tariffs will befall those who don't sign up for his "Peace Board", at a billion a pop. 20 Nations already agreed to join, but a few notables declined the invitation.

   Who was slighted" Why California's governor, GAvin Gruesom. The man who single handed bankrupted the entire state. Talk about the position of the world's 4th largest economy. But GAvin speaks only in terms he understands. Oh, we have a 34 billion dollar deficit. So what? He doesn't think it's a problem. he'll be gone and his successor will have to cope. Fat chance on another Democrat winning CAlifornia; but they still try. MAny are lining up for thre job. How about that billionaire-Tom Steyer? Just what we don't need: another billionaire telling us how to live within our means. Where do we find these guys?

   How sad. The great State of California: underwater. Oh, Gavin: admit it-you are a LOSER. 

Will the US Military Refuse an Invasion Order

  Of course they will.  It's been said: military pwersonnel can refuse to carry out an illegal order. So, if the Orange -haired Baboon should make that mistake, the generals will just say No. N -O, Mr. P.. That's an illegal order and we ain't doing it. Ever.

    Get your buddy in the Kremlin to do your dirty work 

National College Football Title

    For the first time ever, Indiana University out of Bloomington, Indiana, won the National College Championship.  They also went 16-0 for the season. Many great stories surround their victory. Coach Cignetti came on the seen just 2 years ago and brought them a national title. He brought skills and experience to the school.

      He had proclaimed that he was going to change the program and he did just that.  The Florida Hurricanes of Miami, a 4 time national champion were determined to add to their history of victories despite having lost their luster over the past decades. They had an able team with aquaterback ofknown talents. They were not intimidated by IU's unbeaten record.  'Canes were 13-2, playing an equally difficult schedule. 

    IU had a Heisman Trophy winning QB, Fernando Mendoza. He has all around skills that are impressive: passing, running, leading the team when the going gets rough. In the second half, he ran for a touchdown, stretching in the air to cross the plane in the end zone. A remarkable effort caught on video. When needed, he made the plays. In particular, throwing a long pass on 3rd down to continue a drive to maintain the lead. 

    The canes did not quail, they played tough, despite setbacks, and pressured the Hoosiers until the end, losing 27-21. With a bit more luck, they could have equaled the score with a touchdown late, and kicking an extra point. Didn't happen. Maybe next year. 

Chinese Births Sink, Again

    So, deaths out numbered births in China, again. The future of the country looks grim indeed. While flooding the world with cheap crap goods, the numbers of workers is destined to shrink---FAST.

     Hmmm. How will the Commies in Beijing respond, given that China needs immigrants to bring the demographics back to at least neutral.But that ain't going to happen. Immigrants arn't liniong up to enter the Middle Kingdom. No way, Jose. Who wants to live under Commies? Nobody, no how, never. They ask, "Where's Poor Jimmy Lai, the convicted writer, newspaper mogul who fell afoul of Beijing and the Hong Kong Government branch of the PLA.

     So, women in China say, "No more babies. Who wants to birth a child who will have no rights and will become a ward of the State, subject to the whims of the Commies at the Top in Beijing.  Today in Davos, Switerland, Mr. He Cheng, the Economic Minister, said he doesn't want the world economy to  regress into anything goes; he suggests that the countries agree to rules based economic ties. Ha,ha, ha: you very funny Mr. He.  Recall how you reneged on the 50 year Hong Kong independent agreement. How about the show of force near Taiwan? How about threatening the new  JApanese Prime Minister who had the audacity to mention Taiwan and the South China Sea. You very funny man, Mr. He. Hee, hee, hee.

      How about all those spies recruited in the USA? How about all those Chinese visitors who gave birth in the USA? After saying they weren't pregnant. Hmmm. How about all those visitors toi the US Emnbassy in Beijing who were questioned by the PLA guards stationed outside said embassy.

    No, Mr. He, nobody believes you or your superiors. We know how you speak: with proverbial "forked tougue-ala serpents.  Oh, well, a shrinking population could be worse; it could be the result of a pandemic. Wait, maybe it is the result of the Covid virus that escaped from a Chinese lab vic. Wuhan Remember Wuhan? Big city; big problem. Like China. 

American Yachtsman Sentenced in Russya

    An American citizen, Mr. Zimmerman, was sentenced by a Rus court for a violation of weapons law. The man's sailboat was being searched by Rus police while he was in transit near the city of Sochi, in Crimea, part of Ukraine clained by invading Rus army scum.

      The man was not concisted of any ther crimes excepting possession of a firearm.

Welcome to the federation, sailor boy. You will have 5 years to think about your future and what it will be like even if trumie doesn't get your letter. 

Winter Heat in Ukraine

    So, it's winter on the Steppe- a time of frozen lakes and rivers. It's also a time of indoor life for the population of most of Russya and its neighbor, Ukraine. However, in Ukraine, life itself has become precarious after almost 4 years of warfighting caused by a foreign invasion of the country by the Rus Army.

     It's no secret: the war is all about VOVA, the man who has made Ivan the Terrible into a good guy. Mad Vlad Putin has focused his mind and his life on taking over this foreign, sovereign nation. Over 1 million casualties on the Rus side of the equation have meant little to the monster in the Kremlin. Death and destruction are not a concern of maniacs or depraved minds. Only some intangible goal known only to Putin hisself.

    The Mad Man and his lackies have carried out destruction across the landscape, targeting cities and inhabitants without concern for civilians. This a war without limits, almost. Recently, he has made it clear, the Rus army will destroy energy facilities: those centers of production that produce heat for the living quarters of Ukrainians. Never mind who lives in them: women, children, the elderly, the sick and injured. None are of concern in the least. It's all about crushing the country and its will to resist. Sounds like war to me.

    Meanwhile, the Kremlin and the war promoters exist in the Rus bubble in Moskva, Vladivostok, Yakaterinaburg, and other city centers in the Urals, in Kursk, and near the White sea, way up there at the Arctic Circle.  Vova's buddy, the Orange-haired Baboon, is focused elsewhere: Venezuela, Greenland, Denmark, Cuba, Minneapolis, Nuuk, Caracas, Bogota, Chicago, and Seattle. Never mind about Kviv or Kharkov or the DonBass Region. Oh, and the NFL Playoff schedule. Oh, and Taylor Swift and Jeffrey Epstein and Joe Rogan and Jerome Powell and Elon. It's easy when Bumpus Scatter Brain has memory issues that are age-related.

     Thanks again, to all the eligible voters who voted by not voting. Lovely thing to have to live with for life. And all those sick people in Ukraine, waiting for the next missile to shatter their already broken lives thanks to the Monsters of the Kremlin. 

Will US Military Refuse an Illegal Order to Invade a NATO Country?

   What would Peanut Head hegseth say: No, we won't follow an illegal order, Mr. President. Then, impeachment will follow immediately, if not sooner. Time to take away the toys of the White House and its houseful of wackos A thru Z.

    Enough. 

More Tariffs Coming for European Countries

   So, the senior economist of the USA, Master Deal Maker, appropriator of Nobel Gold Medal, Decider-in-Chief, Commander -in-Chief Hisself, has decided that the Danes aren't really thinking about strategic positioning in the Atlantic Ocean when he his.

     The Great Supreme Leader of the Western Hemisphere has torn up past deals and is now working on his version of the "new Deal" or "trumpie Deal". Not tokens or coins, memes, or fake art with his name on it, he demands that Greenland come over to his side and take a new position of honor among western nations and abandon all that Danish history. Why not? Think of the future with the USA in your corner. What could go wrong?

     So, the Supreme Leader has spoken to the world: give in or give up. Sounds like an announcement from the Kremlin, or Tehran, or Beijing, or Pyongyang. Not Washington, DC. Will Italy now have its pasta products taxed, again/ After enduring a recent tariff on pasta products that were lifted, now they could be back shortly. Oh, the curse. Oh, the pain. Why can't people just get along. Hmm.

 What is coming next: oil tanker takeovers; more tariffs; more saber rattling, more threats of attacks/bombings, deportations; no more visas; no more research partnerships from disfavored nations, and on and on and on. Mental health issues, certainly. And he complains about the ayatollahs. 

Where's the Outtrage Today

      So, ICE in Minneapolis= retribution. Certainly, reporting on events in that city have stirred emotions across the political divide. In Minnesota, a Blue state, Gov. Tim Walz, a recent vice-presidential candidate, declared he will not run for a 3rd term for governor. The polls indicate that the massive fraud committed by citizens of his state, mostly of Somali descent, has stained his reputation beyond repair. (Gov. Walz was vetted by the DNC and went on the campaign trail opposing Pres. Trump and VP Vance). All this despite the well-known details of the fraud exposed in the NYT.

     Where is the outrage?  Nobody is talking today or yesterday. ICE activities, ordered by the White House, has conveniently over shadowed the massive fraud within the state. ICE came in and stomped civil rights and demonstrated authoritarian tactics designed to sow fear among the citizenry in Minneapolis. It has worked, somewhat. But mainstream media has jumped on the horse and is riding the animal across the fruited plain to great effect. Just today, photos of ICE grace the front page of the NYT's  national edition. It depicts the confrontation that ended with the killing of Renee Good, a mother of three children.

      Trump won re-election after garnering 75 million votes.   His margin was barely 2 million over his opponents. But, over 73 million eligible voters stayed home(did not vote).  Hmmm. Where is the outrage among the non-voters? They are too busy. They are out of touch. They could care less. They are at the casino. They are on the job. They don't like the "system". They are possessed by demons. They are following Rudy Giuliani to wherever he is likely to go. They want some of Joe Biden's federal Covid funds.  They are waiting, waiting, waiting for ____________(fill in blank).

       So, Congress is among those people waiting, watching, hoping something will arrive in time to save the democracy we've enjoyed for 250 years. But, as anyone can see by the daily events of this administration, the clock is ticking. Tick, tick, tick. 

Another DAy, Another TAnker Taken Out

     The US has obtained another oil tanker. This ship was captured while enroute to somewhere. Where?

   TBD. 

Turn Up the Heat: Turn Off the Heat

    So, the inhumanity continues by the Kremlin Rus folks. Down south, in Ukraine, it's the middle of winter. Winters in this neighborhood are cold, really cold. Residents need heat to stay alive, stay healthy, stay sane. The Rus FSB know about winter. Hence, they use tactics that affect Ukraine's ability to keep the civilian population warm enough to survive. Destroy the infrastructure that provides heat: Industrial sites that include generators that provide steam for domestic consumption.

     Direct missiles and bombs and drones to eliminate these structural components useful in production of heat for the masses. MAke the citizens feel the cold, the bitter Siberian cold, the Steppe cold, the Rus cold, the Kremlin C O L D. Now Mr. Putin says we can finally freeze the people. Our goal: freeze the people and maybe some of the Ukrainian military forces, too.  Then Maybe I can win this "special operation" I need to prove my manhood, to prove my virility, prove my historical value to all things Rus.

    Yes, people call me MAD Vlad, but I don't care. I'm the "MAN". The Rus MAn of the hour, the day, the Year. 

      

Bridges Over The Yenisei River

    The Rus river-the Yenisei is one of the longest in the world at 2,200 miles; it divides the largest country in the world almost in half, separating European Rus area and the Asiatic Rus area in the east along the Pacific Rim.   Only seven bridges cross this important geographic feature for a variety of reasons, mainly a lack of need. Who needs a bridge to "nowhere".

       Several months ago, an explosion damaged another bridge crucial to the Rus' logistical stream from supporting countries: China, North Korea, and others. The armaments are crucial to the Rus' continued operations during the war in Ukraine, now in its 4th year. Think about that: 4 years of war, 40,000 casualties per MONTH. Per month. Per month. Hmmm. And how is Putie getting along with these numbers. The old spy isn't getting any younger, now well into his 70's(he's a 'boomer').

     So, there's a major bridge over the Yenisei at Krasnoyarsk Krai that carries an enormous amount of freight, both by rail and automotive truck traffic.  What would happen if this bridge was targeted for destruction? Hmmmm. Problems for troops in the field; Rus troops and others. It could cause a major defeat for some of the invaders in Ukraine. The Ukrainian military has shown amazing resilience during this fight for survival against the former Soviet hordes. After taking Crimea, the Kremlin thought taking the rest of the country would be a walkover. wring. Kremlin boneheads had all their intelligence wrong, again.  No walkover. 

    So, it's just a matter of time before this bridge and the rest get blown.   MAybe the Rus will put up huge defensive positions to protect this vital transportation link; maybe not. Very expensive. The Rus economy is starting to resemble Iran's economy. 

Are Eligible Voters Signing up

    Hmmm. With MAGA running amok across the fruited plain, it seems that certain constituents are concerned about the country's direction. All those eligible voters figure it's time to change course and vote. This is a big year -off year elections in November.  Will the Congress get flipped as it usually does? What impact will thos eleigible voters have on outcomes? Hmmmmm. Are they too busy again this year.?

  Recall, in 2024, 72 millions eligible voters stayed home. The Dems didn't really make much of an effort to get out the vote(eligible voters). So, they stayed home, as did Joe Biden's support crew. The Dems didn't think it was worth the effort.

So, here we are. 

 

 

Will Turkey Get the Jets

       Ricyp Erdogan wants to be a player in Asia and Europe. He wants to maintain his pivotal role as the most in demand in the region. He wants people to respect him. He wants recognition as "The MAN".

The MAN wants F-35's: state of the American art of stealth fighters. Not cheap, either. So, What does Trumpie need to close the sale of these little planes? Ok, tell him we'll support his takeover of Greenland. Tell him we like the idea of invading Iran to fix their economy. Tell him we don't like Jerome Powell either. Tell him Christy  Noem is not welcome in Turkiye. Tell him PAm Bondi is not going to get any Christmas cards this year. Tell him we'll approve 12 trump Resorts/golf course. Tell him I'm studying English everyday.

     Tell him we'll admit 10,000 Slovenian refugees. Oh, tell him I'm playing golf and aspire to play with POTUS. Tell him Kash Patel has any access he wants in our secret police files. Tell him I own crypto coins, crypto tokens, crypto underwear, crypto trading cards, crypto internet memes, everything crypto. I'll sell him my own crypto at a bargain price. Tell him he looks very healthy; healthier than me.

   Just get the jets. Pay in oil, gold, silver, lithium, carrots, diamonds, whatever. I need those planes to protect the country from invaders from ........

    Don't tell Putin either about the sale. He'll want to muscle in and scotch the deal. Tell him I'll admit more RE sales to Rus elites over the next year. Tell him I'll invest in Crimea, big time.

    Tell Trumpie we love the "Big Bad Beautiful Bill". And of course, tell him me and the wife look forward to attending a dance party at the 'new' White House ball room. 

Trumpie Moving Troops

     DoD personnel are on the move. The few remaining active duty personnel are being sent hither and yon to satify the White House 'whim of the day". 

  No, not Venezuela; no, not Greenland; no, not Mexico. No, no Colombia. No, not Minneapolis. No, no Washington, DC. NO, not Jerusalem. No, not Seattle. No, not Portlandia. No, not Chicago. where then?

      TBD.

 Despite orders flying around the Pentagon, nobody is talking. Top Secret orders. hegseth is unavailable. Jamie Vance is indisposed. Steve Wikoff is traveling. JAred Kushner is in a meeting in Dubai. Chief of Staff is focused on Davos.

    Who's in charge? 

Supreme Leader Having Nightmares

    So, Iranians are upset. No, not about hijabs. No, not about lack of women's rights. No, no about the Jews/Israel. No, not about the USA(Great Satan). No, no about MBS. No, not about Afghanis. No, no about domestic workers. No, not about military recruitment(lack of). It's about MONEY, lack of.

      A bank collapsed. Inflated currency couldn't be printed fast enough. Bad loans among insiders were not performing(known as "nonperforming loans!). High finance seems to follow certain rules no matter where one lives. Oh, you live in Tehran? Good luck. Your currency isn't worth the paper printed on. Oh, and how much is a dozen of eggs? Oh, $10 this morning; $15 this afternoon; $20 tomorrow. What are the chickens saying about this: we need more corn!.  So, all the street protesters are not worried about the usual political crap that the Supreme leader says is important. It's all about the "Benjamins", to borrow an American cliche'.

      Did the Ayatollah go to the University of Chicago to learn Economics? No. He went to the mosque. See conversation:

Ayatollah: Good morning, Mohammed. How's my bank account this morning.

Mohammed: Looking good today, Supreme Leader. We plumped it up by 200,000 Rials. Write all the checks you want.

Ayatollah: Wonderful news. I was concerned because many citizens are complaining that they don't have enough cash for groceries. Is there a problem I don't know about?

Mohammed: No, sir, no problems. The economy is humming along just fine. Oil sales are up; demand is up. Household goods are selling well. Automobile sales are steady. The USA insists that we negotiate conditional disarmament to lift sanctions.

Ayatollah: What sanctions?

Mohammed: Certain sanctions imposed years ago. Don't worry. We have everything under control. No problems caused by little rules imposed by Great Satan.

Ayatollah: Is the Internet still down? I wanted to watch some TikToc videos on flyfishing.

Mohammed: Did the Supreme Leader pay his subscription fees this month?

Ayatollah: What's a subscription? Is that something prescribed by my doctor for high blood pressure?

Mohammed: Sir, I'll call you back in a bit. I have an incoming call from Gen. Farsimidejah about street rioting.

Ayatollah: Good talking with you, as always. 

Trumpies Military Might: Not

       America's unemployment rate hovers around 4%. This, in essence, means there's full employment and plenty of jobs for the taking. This is reflected in military recruitment efforts. The US armed forces have failed to reach recruiting goals for several years. Pentagon admin types bemoan the sad numbers that float across their desks. No matter the speeches, the admonitions, the urgency, and the pleas to "do more', have all failed to improve the numbers of new recruits to fill the ever increasing vacancies in the ranks.

      Recent headlines speak of possible invasions of foreign nations. Top of the list Venezuela, where a minor incursion picked up Nicolas Maduro and his wife and brought them both to jail in Brooklyn, NYC, to face trial as drug dealers on a national scale. Then there's Iran, currently experiencing an uprising as protesters protest runaway inflation and a lack of essentials in the country. And then there's Mexico, the kingpin of drug trafficking in the world. Trumpie offered Pres. Sheinbaum American military to attack and rid the country of cartel drug lords. (She refused the offer).

       Greenland? hardly a concern other than a complete rollup by a small force of military police and a few dog handlers and food service employees. So, who would carry out the many varied military missions and assignments? Contractors, maybe. And they are ot subject to the UCMJ- the Uniform Code of Military Justice, the legal manual for managing military units. Recall Blackwater, the contractor so infamous in Iraq during that war. Also see what is happening in Ukraine with the Rus Army-supplamented by conscripts from North Korea. Talk about desperation. Old Mad Vlad is scraping the bottom of the barrel to put more troops in the field. And the USA?

     We are scraping very near the bottom of our barrel. See the National Guard military deployments. Who are they? Local men and women who were promised a role in L O C A L emergencies. Iraq is not aa local emergency. But the California National Guard 41st Division was sent to Kuwait and Iraq for a year's deployment(they have since returned).  And those troops sent into American cities to "restore" order-more National Guard troops. These men and women are called up from their daily jobs, their families, and their homes to take on tasks normally taken on by the Army Reserves. And where are the reserves-nobody knows and nobody is talking , not the empty suit Hegseth.

A Boomer in the Kremlin

    So, Boomers. Well known in the US, Boomers refer to those born in the USA after WW II. Those born from 1946- to 1965.  So, the oldest Boomers turn 80 years old this year, entering old age territory. So, how old is Mad Vlad in the Onion -Domed castle of the Kremlin. The aging Boomer who inhabits the Kremlin qualifies as a 'Boomer'.   Most older Boomers have retired, taking their pensions and social security payments to live out their lives as comfortably as possible within means.

    And the Boomer in the Kremlin: still working; he has young children and a wife to support. This is a case of latent boomerism: keep working until one's future is secure. Ok, VOVA? WHen will the Rus feel secure? When Zelensky gets a missile that reaches the kremlin? It won't be long before missiles will be launched fromdown south aimed at ther Onion Domes of Red Square. Then the Boomer in Residence will have to rethink his strategy.

    Good luck with that, Boomer. 

Jerome Powell: Fed Chair: Under Attack

    So, Mr. Bone Spurs has his lackies at the DOJ file ann investigation on Fed Chair Powell's renovations of the federal reserve Office building in DC. This is clearly indicative of a deranged mental state of all involved. While Jerome powell is the chairman, his role as renovation supervisor of the building is hardly involved as contractor/manager of construction.

       So, the DOJ responds to the requests of Mr. Bone Spurs, or POTUS. He's been after the Fed chairman to alter the discount rate/interest rate to satisfy some hidden desire on his part to "spur" the economy, the economy that's already moving quite well without lower interest rates. Inflatio? yes, inflation is still higher than what would be ideal. 3% inflation rate? well, that means workers must gain at least 3% in wages  for the year.

    This is hardly seen across the board.So, Jerome Powell has to endure the workings of a crazy man. 

GAZA: HAMAS Refuses to Disarm

    So, leaders of HAMAS refuse to order forces to lay down their arms. Hmmmm. And what did they expect the Israelis to do: say it's Ok? The HAMAS murderers continue to read the winds of public opinion, hoping that enough anti-Israeli sentiment will allow them to prevail in their struggle to survive.

    But it's not happening.  The Israeli army will not let go; not this time, not ever. HAMAS must be eliminated as a controlling force in Gaza. Until the world acknowledges this position, Gaza will be occupied  by the Israeli army, as it must be. Pirates and murderers only know one method: superior forces win. Israel's leaders know this, too. Hence, Gazans will be subject to the Israeli army forces , UFO. 

Rus Launch Hypersonic rocket into Ukraine

    Mad Vlad is trying to capture some headlines from -Gaza, Venezuela, China, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, India, Pakistan, and maybe Canada and Australia. It's a constant struggle when one is involved in a military adventure beyond your borders. 

    The Rus, occupiers of the largest country in the world, are not content to coexist among nations that don't respect them(in their opinion). So, seek out some headlines on the road to respect. But, the Rus overlook the obvious: respect is not gathered and collected, respect is given from outside, from those neighbors who observe what's happening in your world.

    So, MAd Vlad, the dictator consigned to be disrespected because he's a Throwback to the Soviet period, must accept the positin he finds himself in today: a disrespected tyrant who murders opponents and invades innocent neighbors whom he kills indiscriminently with his drones and missiles. Sad, really. Perhaps Vlad is not a student of histopry. Maybe he hasn't read Gibbons "Decline and Fall"; he might learn something or two.

      Maybe the mullahs will flee to join Assad in MOskva. Maybe not. Maybe they'll go to Dubai and spend time on the beach, getting some sun. Seems the mullahs aren't getting enough Vitamin D. 

Keep watching the news; it will scare you into watching the NFL.  

500 Dead in Iran: Islamic World Afire

    So, the economy is crashing and people are in the streets: screaming at the government. The response: kill them.

      This opposition is the result of the militarization of a country, of a society, of a culture by religious fanatics. These fanatics won't answer to the citizenry: these theocrats only respond to an imaginary world they hold in their peanut brains. Sadly, more deaths will follow before the theocrats are thrown out. Will Reza Pahlavi come back to lead the country back in to the world of nations?

      That remains to be seen. But these protests will not stop. The more killings, the more protests. It seems rulers in this vein seldom respond positively. They are not humanists; they are not real leaders, only theocrats, the worst of the worst. History is littered with the skeletons of theocrats no matter where you look. 

      I have sympathy for the Iranians, up to a point. Then, that sympathy goes away when they agree with the Kahmeneis who hate mankind in general.  They wish to depart this earth soon and join Mohammed somewhere else. How nice. 

What's the MAtter with USPS

   The Mayor mailed a small package to Washington, DC. It weighed about 1/2lb, placed in a large padded envelop, well marked, address verified, insurance paid, tracking number recorded. And then the fun began.

      How many stops does a package have to make on its way to the nation's capitol?  Hmmm. Let's list them:

      Indianapolis

      Aurora, Co.

      Denver, CO

      Chicago, IL

      Chicago Dist. Ctr. 

      New Jersey Dist. Ctr.

     Aurora, CO

      San Francisco, Dist. Ctr.

     North Bay Dist. Ctr(Petaluma CA) 

      New Jersey Dist. Center

          And that's where it sits: now day 4 in New Jersey. Oh, it was mailed on: November 22, 2025. Houston, we have a problem and it needs some serious attention. 

Indiana University v. Oregon: Could this be the Year for Hoosiers?

       In the semi-final college game of the season, the Hoosiers of Indiana took on the Ducks of Oregon. It was much anticipated and most fans thought it would be an even match. Wrong.

    In what could be one of the most uneven contests of the years, Indiana took advantage of several turnovers and bad breaks to post a convincing victory over a very strong opponent. the Heisman trophy winning QB proved that , yes, he is deserving of the honor.  Demonstrating a wide variety of skills, he ran, passed, and directed the offense racking up large double digits on the scoreboard before halftime. Things didn't look promising for Oregon. And they didn't improve after the break.

      Barely able to move the ball, Oregon struggled to put together any scoring drives in the first or second halves. When moving the ball seemed to work, a turnover changed the situation to a Hoosier scoring drive. 

     Now the Hoosiers will have a chance to make their mark in the Championship game against a very good Miami Hurricane team. 

Mullahs of Iran: What's Happening

       So, we have Iranians taking to the streets of Tehran and other cities. They are protesting. Oh, my. Protesting. Hmmmm. Is this new? No, not really. This is an ongoing condition of life under mullahs who firmly believe that they have the power to direct the lives of all Iranians all the time.

       Bu, but, but, but wait. Why is there inflation? Why are locals finding the economy going downhill faster than a speeding camel.  Sanctions, sanctions, and oh, more sanctions. As a regional player in the region, the mullahs believe they must project power. Let's see: helping HAMAS in Palestine: not so good.  How about helping Hezbollah in Lebanon? No so good either.

      How about helping anybody in Yemen? Not so good there either. How about threatening Israel and the leaders there in? Even worse because Israel won't stand for it nor sit by and watch the results of Iranian interference in the 'hood.

      So, life in Iran has become unbearable for------IRANIANS. Sad, really, how religious fanatics run a country when they can't even manage themselves, walking around, throwing orders here there and everywhere to no effect. Need oil? We have it. Oh, sanctions. The Rus and the Kremlin will help. Wait, oil tankers are now being captured and the oil, sanctioned, is no longer under our control. Hmmm. Panic in Tehran.

     Protesters have already been killed and the mullahs vow more oppression to come. Get off the streets or we take your lives.  So, protesting in Iran. Are we mimicking Iran in Minnesota where ICE agents just murdered a protester?  Hmmm. Time to rethink ICE activity. 

Goodbye Tim Walz, Gov. of Minnesota

   So, scrutiny of his term as governor of Minnesota revealed some shortcomings. Of course, it was well known over 4 years ago. Local Somalis were involved in criminal conspiracies to rip off federal programs to help poor folks during the Covid pandemic. The Biden administration sent funds to help out and Somalis coordinated frauds never seen in Minnesota's history. 

    So, poor old Tim takes the punishment, despite his clean record. Something was missing, perhaps the lean in to DEI or the possibility of being unsympathetic to the minority population involved in the massive fraud operation during his tenure. How does this happen?

Democrats? Yes. 

Ravens v. Steelers: Classic American Football

    So, the season is ending; fans anticipate playoffs with glee and the opportunity for a big betting pool. Pools are available just about everywhere. And the I.R.S. knows it is powerless to stop it. Well, not completely powerless. They always get a call or two from the losers or those who split with the pot and didn't pay the winner(s). Another favorite American sport: cheating on pools.

     But the final regular season game: Ravens v. Steelers, whetted the appetites of millions of fans. The game was an instant classic as called by pundits. Had lots of drama: aging qb Rodgers, trying to subdue the flashy Lamar Jackson, the scrambling passer with a good offense and a capable defense. Birds jumped out to an early lead, 13-3. Rodgers wasn't making the throws; his were off target-short, long, high, low; receivers were not in the patterns.  My, oh, my. Mike Tomlin was pacing, shaking his head, with little to say. He mumbled mumbles, spoke to miscreants who failed to perform as planned. 

     Then the 2nd half show began and what a show: everything a dedicated fan could have asked for: penalties providing new life; dropped passes, completed passes, and then the show stoppers of show stoppers: missed extra points. Late in the 4th quarter, the Steelers provided drama. The Ravens had gone ahead after a Jackson TD pass. The clock was ticking as always and the situation entered the cardiac realm of anxiety. Could Aaron do it? Do it again? Can he still function under pressure? One of the NFL's great quarterbacks proved he could. And he did it with a beautiful pass. Then, the point after attempt that failed. Now, the Steelers lead is only 2 pts. Enough to win, but still lots of time left for heroics. Now clock management.

        A great kickoff return places the Ravens  at midfield. Then they advance the ball well within field goal range on about the 27 yard line. Run the clock down telling the ref to stop at 2 seconds. The rookie, Loop, comes on the field, anticipating all the accolades due after the kick. The ball is up------------and wide right: missed field goal. Ravens go home, Steelers advance to the playoffs. Aaron Rodgers carries the team forward. Lamar Jackson resigns himself to the loss and the end of the 2025 season, an also ran.  

   Will Rodgers end up in the Super Bowl in Santa Clara, CA? 

     

Despot in Courtroom

    It could be the title of a Dan Brown novel: Despot in the Courtroom. But, no, it's real-the Maduro trial in Manhattan is underway. The Orangwe-Haired BAboon is in the Oval plotting his next headline -grabbing move to shock and awe the populace here at home and provide pyrotechnics in some unguarded space somewhere around the globe. Maybe he's taking lessons from Mad Vlad, 25 year dictator of the Rus peoples Republic of Federation Siberian Conclave of Aggressor Special Forces from Friendly Communist NAtions and territories.

     Wherever he's learning, he has his minions moving at a fast clip, yes, a fast clip, faster than the pundits can keep up with today tomorrow, and next week. Thank you, all the eligible voters who stayed home in November, 2024. Shame on you. All 92 millions of you. 

Anybody Need a Dictator? 1 Available in Brooklyn, Wife Included

     So, the old Dictator is cooling off in a holding cell.  Ms. Maduro is polishing up on her English, hoping to get a position in the US on a temporary visa. MAybe a Green Card will be in the offing if her husband opens one of his offshore accounts. How much of his money is in Bitcoin? How much in Switzerland banks? Or the Bank of England? Or Lichtenstein? Or in gold bullin? I'll bet on the bullion, gold or silver. After the run up, lots of dictators starting buying, just in case.

       Now how long before The Orange-Haired Baboon pardons the drug lord. as he did the other convicted drug lord? The trial won't take long as all the legal steps occurred a couple of years ago. Robert Kennedy will check their shot cards to make sure they haven't taken too many vaccines. Homeland Security will verify that the man and woman they have incustory are in fact, Venezuelans and not avatars/robots 

The Cuba Question

     Now Raul Castro, the Dictator in Cuba, one of the last bastions of Communism in the West, will have to make some more adjustments. Old Nic Maduro will no longer send cheap oil to the island in exchange for conscripts to keep the peace at home for Maduro's henchmen.

       How will all the old cars move around? Hmmm. Maybe they convert the engines to run on molasses or cheap sugar from the cane fields.  Where will all the soldiers go when the US sends them all back to the island? How sad.

     Raul CAstro is old; his body is deteriorating fast. He wants to retire but nobody wants his job now that it's obvious the days of the Castro Regime are coming to an abrupt end. Ruusya and Mad Vlad are long   

2026 will see changes. Get ready . 

Welcome In: 2026

    It's wet in NorCAl(somewhat delayed precipitation). So, now 2026, the beginning of Year 2 of a businessman's White House Foray. The Supreme Leader continues to express delight in issuing threats worldwide. Now Iran: "We will target you if you kill protesters". Hmmm. How is one supposed to interpret this threat? Will the Imams hold back from customary armed response to protests of regime actions? How about the sanctions that are actually having an affect: their economy is sinking faster than 3rd world freebie. 

      Oh, maybe some super intelligence service department in the White House(Caroline Leavitt and the 2nd fetus?)  Is she the single most reliable source of anything from the Oval? Really? Or maybe Mr. Bongino, F.B.I. No.2 man? Ha ha ha: goodby to you, too. He be gone. Maybe his boss: Kash man. Can he even tie his own shoes? 

      How's the negotiations going with Mad Vlad & the Kremlinites? Ha ha ha. Even goofy Vlady can't recall what he said yesterday let alone last week. The only thinker in the room is Volodomyr Zelensky. You have to love this man- he is way ahead of his time. A true gift to the world: clear-eyed, strong, and indefatigable . Love that word.

     And we are stuck with the MAGA life support system. Even MT Greene bailed on the mess. When will the cascade become a flood-soon. Will Jamie VAnce bail next? 

Happy New Year: Football Lineup of Bowl Games

    Ok sports fans: Get Ready for some Football:

The Rose Bowl in Pasadena,

The Sugar Bowl, and 

The Orange  Bowl, these 3 representing the traditional games reaching back almost 75 years. In the Rose Bowl, No. 1 Indiana will go up against The Crimson Tide of Alabama, a regular bowl game participant over the years. 

       Also included are Ole Miss, Texas Tech, Georgia, and Oregon. Yesterday, in the Cotton Bowl, Ohio State was upset by Miami Hurricanes, 24-14. This was a shocker and hasn't happened in 24 years. This game was a quarter final game for the national title game.