Unrest in China

Unrest continues to strike nation after nation, and China is no stranger to it. The truth is hard to get out due to the total control of the media by the Chinese government, but some does get out. CNN reports that any articles written on the subject are quickly blocked out by the Chinese government, if they contain any information not being released by state media.

In Xinjiang province an extra 8000 police have been sent in to ensure "the lasting peace and social stability in the region." Xinjiang province is home to the Uighers people, who are mostly Muslim and do not even speak Chinese. The region has seen a rising tide of Han Chinese immigrants, and in 2009 was the scene of riots which killed at least 200 people. Very little is known about the current situation there, other than what state tv reports.

Sichuan province, home to large numbers of Tibetan communities has also seen a large crackdown. Both sides have confirmed deaths occurred, but the stories as to why are very different. The state media says that religious unrest is occurring and protesters attacked police with weapons, and places the blame on the Dalai Lama. Whereas, Tibetan rights groups are saying that police fired repeatedly into an unarmed peaceful protest. Any foreigners or press who attempt to enter the area are turned back well before they can reach the turmoil, with police stating that they can not let them in for their own safety.

No More Debt!

Back in 2008, Obama said, "The problem is that the way Bush has done it in the last eight years is to take out a credit card from the Bank of China in the name of our children, driving up our national debt from $5 trillion from the first 42 presidents. Number 43 added $4 trillion by his lonesome. So we now have over $9 trillion of debt that we are going to have to pay back. $30,000 for every man woman and child. That's irresponsible, that's unpatriotic." Yet even in April 2011, "When you're a senator, traditionally what's happened is, this is always a lousy vote. Nobody likes to be tagged as having increased the debt limit -- for the United States by a trillion dollars. As president, you start realizing, you know what, we, we can't play around with this stuff. This is the full faith and credit of the United States." Kind of a radical switch there Barack.

In his eight years as President, George W. Bush raised the debt limit seven times, for an amount of $4 trillion. President Barack Obama however, has in three years raised it five times for $7 trillion. No wonder he's had to change his rhetoric. I'm going to once again quote Obama, "raising the debt limit is a sign of leadership failure." It totally is! As Representative Paul Ryan, said Sunday, "We are not getting the kind of leadership we need. At the time when America needs it the most, we have a debt crisis on our horizon. The Senate hasn't budgeted for 1,005 days now. The president is not even proposing to tackle this fiscal crisis. So, what we need is a new president and a new Senate, and we need to give the country a very specific plan, a set of ideas of how we're going to solve these problems and let the country choose in November what they want America to become."

Raising the debt limit, should never have been an option. There's a limit for a purpose! Why bother even having one, if it is so easy to raise it. If America is ever going to recover from her financial and economic woes and tribulations there can be no more increases. None. As in zero. Nada. No mas. It should not even be something allowed for discussion by the government. To once again agree with candidate Obama's sadly empty words, raising the national debt is "irresponsible, that's unpatriotic".

Reducing the debt has to be the foremost objective of the United States government. Why? Because it is the government's debt. We The People are being held hostage by it. And anytime a government is using anything to hold it's own people hostage, that government becomes an enemy of the people, an enemy of the very country it supposedly is working for. Congress and The President need to receive this message. Are you working for us or against us? If you continue working against us, you are in violation of your oath's of office, and an enemy of the state.

This country separated itself from England due to taxation without representation. Now all of these members were elected, whether their voters were alive or dead. But I seriously doubt any member of congress was elected by their constituents with the expressed purpose of 'bankrupt us further'. In fact, many of the newer members were elected because they promised to not vote for further debt. Congress, let me be clear, you are either for us or against us. Compromise is the nature of politics, but on this issue there is no room for any. No more debt!

Millennium Falcon at Bottom of Baltic?

Representative West's Message

Occupy Mob Violence

Occupy Oakland went completely violent last night and brought out nothing but a rioting mob. They began by attempting to break into the Henry Kaiser Convention Center, tearing down fences and destroying equipment. When asked by police to disperse they responded by attacking police with bottles, metal pipes, rocks, spray cans, fire, improvised explosive devices, and at least one bicycle. Several police officers were injured in the assault. Occupiers continued to break into the Oakland City Hall and a YMCA building, causing thousands of dollars in damage and stealing US flags to burn on the steps. In defense of the city, and their own lives, police were forced to use tear gas, pepper spray, batons, flash bangs, rubber bullets, and bean bag guns. At least 400 occupiers were arrested over the course of Saturday alone.


Ironically most of the occupiers are not even from Oakland, but from all over the country. They consist mostly of anarchists and communists who are using the protests to promote their own agendas, cause chaos, and simply destroy things. Occupy Oakland has also threatened to attempt closing the airport as well as the shipyards, again. In ridiculous attempts, the occupiers have tried blaming the city and the police for their own actions last night. They have already filed law suits, claiming that they were peacefully protesting when attacked. "Their intent is to commit vandalism and cause problems," interim police Chief Howard Jordan said of the protesters. "Their intent is not to be peaceful."


Oakland Mayor Jean Quan is seeking "stay away" orders against occupiers that have been arrested repeatedly. These would basically act as restraining orders, making it illegal for the repeat offenders to enter into Oakland city limits. Police were kept so busy with the violence that they couldn't respond to over 200 other calls. This even despite help coming throughout the day from the Alameda County Sheriff's Office and other city's police forces, including Fremont, Hayward, Berkeley, Pleasanton, Union City and Newark.

MOP Not Enough

It seems that the Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) is no longer enough. The Pentagon, despite seeking massive cuts elsewhere, has asked Congress for funding to build the "mother of all bombs" (MOAB). Pentagon experts state the need for one, by noting that certain countries have built bunkers housing nuclear facilities that the MOP may not be able to reach, and the MOAB could. Both the MOP and MOAB are attempts to avoid the use of nuclear weaponry.

Iran's Fordo facility for nuclear enrichment is built at least 200 feet below ground, and has been further strengthened with concrete and steel. Fordo is likely the foremost target in the mind of the military thinkers. A MOP likely would not be capable of destroying that site.

Tensions between Iran and the world have been at all time highs due to the continuation of Iran's nuclear program. While the US is joined by the EU, and most of the world, in placing sanctions against the belligerent country; Russia has stood by their ally vetoing any UN resolution that would place sanctions on Iran. Even China has cut down it's purchasing of Iranian oil, to put pressure on Iran's government, over the nuclear program. Iran's response to the sanctions has been to repeatedly threaten to close the Strait of Hormuz, the shipping lane for a fifth of the world's oil travels through. The US, France, and UK have all maintained and increased naval forces near the strait to ensure it stays open.

The Mothership

The USS Ponce is to be converted into a "mothership", where special operations forces can be kept and deployed from. Capable of housing helicopters, rapid deployment troops, speed boats, and some aircraft she would prove an extremely useful mobile base for the United States Navy. She would be very helpful asset against pirates and could be used as a commando station against hostile groups such as Al Qaeda.

Naval technicians are already working on full on motherships, which they hope to begin building in 2013. These would be capable of carrying a lot more troops and equipment. As they will be specially designed, rather than retrofitted, they would likely be much more capable as well.

The USS Ponce and it's successor will likely be sent to the Persian Gulf or Arabian Sea, as counters to the aforementioned pirates, but also as a message to Iran. Iran and the United States have been increasingly hostile over Iran's nuclear program. While the US is joined by the EU, and most of the world, in placing sanctions against the belligerent country; Russia has stood by their ally vetoing any UN resolution that would place sanctions on Iran. Even China has cut down it's purchasing of Iranian oil, to put pressure on Iran's government, over the nuclear program. Iran's response to the sanctions has been to repeatedly threaten to close the Strait of Hormuz, the shipping lane for a fifth of the world's oil travels through. The US, France, and UK have all maintained and increased naval forces near the strait to ensure it stays open.

Renewed Egyptian Turmoil

Protesters in Egypt have now begun turning on the Muslim Brotherhood, which was elected to a near majority in the elections last week. They blame the group for selling the revolution out and for supporting the military's continued control of the country. Military rule is set to end in June, and their timetable has been completely supported by the Brotherhood. The protesters did not turn to violence against them, but did send them the worst of insults as well as some thrown plastic bottles. Chants of,
"No Brotherhood, no officers! Down, down with military rule!" were heard. Members of the Brotherhood, that were present, seemed shocked by the turn of events, and did not really seem to know how to react.

Meanwhile, a mob broke into the Syrian embassy, with little to no resistance from Egyptian security forces. The attack lasted about fifteen minutes, mostly included ransacking the building, and then the group left with out any problems. The embassy had been empty at the time, so none were hurt. This is the fifth attack on an embassy in Cairo over the last year, the last was the Israeli embassy in September. Syrian ambassador, Youssef Ahmed, saw no relation in the attacks stating, "The Israeli Embassy was attacked by the revolutionaries of Egypt because Israel is the first enemy of the Arab nation," where as, "barbarians moved by money provided by Persian Gulf countries bent on Assad's ouster" had attacked the Syrian.

No More Peace! Massacre or Civil War?

Over the last few days Syria has gone more violent than ever. In what can only be described by witness as massacre and urban warfare, Syrian troops have begun systematically clearing the suburbs of Damascus of any signs of opposition, whether it be armed or not. Some news sources have posted pictures of children slain, reportedly by the Syrian army and security forces, who have brought in tanks to crush the protesters and rebels alike.

Violence is not isolated in the capital though, and is seen in Homs and many other cities throughout the country. Death tolls are thought to be well over 100 since Friday, marking the bloodiest days of the opposition.

The Arab League has responded by announcing that they will put out their observers, a move which Syria has condemned. Syria states that the removal of the observers will only bring about more violence as it will encourage the rebels. The Arab League, mostly just fears for the safety of the observers, and realizes how ineffective they have been. Originally they had been sent in hopes that their presence would bring an end to violence, but it has only gotten worse since the arrived. Under the original agreement for observers, Assad's government was to, "cease all violence against civilians, free political detainees, remove tanks and weapons from cities and allow outsiders, including the international news media, to travel freely in Syria". Very little of which happened.

The United Nations is considering a resolution which would fully support an Arab League resolution which was passed last week. The Arab League's resolution requires that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad resign from his office and turn power over to his vice president. They furthermore called for the Syrian government to start a dialogue with the opposition within two weeks and for a unity government to be formed within two months. The temporary government would then have three months to write a new constitution and then hold parliamentary and presidential elections. The latest violence by the Syrian regime, seems to be to try and regain control before the UN could make any decision.

Either way, any UN resolution has little hope for passing as Russia has pledged to block anything that involves a demand for change of government or sanctions. Wednesday, Russia signed an agreement to sell jets to the Syrian government.

Teens Suspended for Sharing Inhaler

In Monument, Colorado two eighth grade girls have been suspended, after the one passed her inhaler to her friend when both thought she was having an asthma attack during gym class. The incident went unnoticed until the one girl had a slight allergic reaction to the inhaler medicine, and went to the school nurse.

The principal of the school has not only suspended both girls for "sharing a prescription drug", but is recommending expulsion from the school district. The school district's superintendent has backed up the principal saying that the punishment is totally appropriate, and that the girls need to learn from this.

The girls, and their families, defend their actions as the right thing to do. Both say they would do it again under similar circumstances.

North Korea Bans Cell Phones

He's pointing at you! You used your cell phone didn't you? You're a war criminal. That's right, per sources, North Korea has now made cell phone usage a war crime. Apparently punishing your people for "not mourning enough" wasn't enough to establish the tyrannical rule of Kim Jong Un.

Sparked by fears of last year's Arab Spring, North Korean seems to think that tightening down further will prevent similar events from happening there. Now why would the North Koreans wish for new leadership? Isn't the rule of the amazing son of the "Dear Leader" enough of a reason to be happy? How could it not be when your government starves you into submission? Is it any wonder that an estimated 23,000 North Koreans have fled to South Korea?

Occupy, this is what a police state looks like. Real police states don't allow you to gather, let alone encamp in public spaces. Your precious I-phone, that you take those pictures of your so called "police brutality" on, is illegal in an actual police state. Freedom of information isn't a right in some countries. Your ability to tweet and use the internet to plan your marches and gatherings is a privilege. Think of that next time you're asked to clear a sidewalk or park, for a few minutes, so that the city can cleanse it of your filth.

Twitter vs. Freedom of Content

"We do not remove Tweets on the basis of their content. Our position on freedom of expression carries with it a mandate to protect our users' right to speak freely and preserve their ability to contest having their private information revealed." So said Twitter last January as revolutions began in the Middle East and North Africa.


Yet now Twitter has announced that they will begin censoring tweets. "Starting today, we give ourselves the ability to reactively withhold content from users in a specific country while keeping it available in the rest of the world. As we continue to grow internationally, we will enter countries that have different ideas about the contours of freedom of expression. Some differ so much from our ideas that we will not be able to exist there. We do not remove Tweets on the basis of their content. Our position on freedom of expression carries with it a mandate to protect our users' right to speak freely and preserve their ability to contest having their private information revealed." Clearly a totally different message.


Whilst Twitter did not go into full specifics, they used France and Germany as examples. In both of those countries pro nazi messages are illegal, so any tweets deemed to be such would not be visible there. Twitter did state that users who's tweets are blocked would be informed of such. Likely in a way similar to how they're told of being over the daily status update allowance or that their tweet is a duplicate.


And thanks to their being unspecific on what content won't be allowed, Twitter has now given itself carte blanche to hide or remove any and all tweets. So much for being the leader of free speech, or as Twitter General Counsel Alex Macgillivray declared them to be "the free speech wing of the free speech party".

Pentagon Proposes Cuts

The Pentagon has announced it's proposal for a reduced budget. The reductions would total $487 billion over the next ten years. Included in the proposal are troop reductions, cutting planned purchases, closing bases, cutting pay raises, and increasing the costs of health insurance fees.

Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said that the Army would be reduced over the next five years from 570,000 troops down to 490,000. Meanwhile the Marines will drop from 202,000 to 182,000. A totally of 100,000 troops being removed would put the armed forces just barely above pre 9-11 strength. The Air Force would be losing six of it's tactical fighter squadrons and be forced to retire 130 troop moving aircraft. Whilst the Navy is required to retire seven cruisers and a few other ships. The Pentagon would also buy fewer F-35 jets. The Navy will delay buying around a dozen ships. As for closing bases, which are unclear, but the Army would begin by pulling two of its four brigades out of permanent bases in Europe to bases in the United States, and would increase rotational deployments to the remaining bases so that more units would have an opportunity to train with NATO allies.

The proposed changes to pay raises and increased costs of the health care for vets and their families would not begin until 2015. Currently the Pentagon spends almost a third of it's budget, $181 billion a year, on salaries and benefits. There are severe worries over active duty and retired members facing what could be a large part of the proposed cuts. Healthcare costs, going up would directly hurt the pocket books of all involved, especially disabled retirees who may be unable to bring in other forms of income.

Even before the proposal was official, various members of Congress were already coming out against it. Michigan Senator Carl Levin, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, was quoted as saying "I'm not going to be able to support" it. "These cuts reflect President Obama';s vision of an America that is weakened, not strengthened, by our men and women in uniform," said Howard P. McKeon of California, chairman of the House Armed Services Committee.

The Hippie Homemaker-Homemade Shampoo and "Conditioner"

Hey all!

First off, let me introduce myself. My name is Keely, I'm a baker, crafter and intrigued by all things domestic. I'll be guest blogging here at TORARADICAL once a week. You can also find me at kraftykeely.tumblr.com.

About 6 months ago I switched from using traditional hair care and body products and now use only natural/homemade products. That spurred my interest in all things natural and slowly I am attempting to even transition out of commercial house cleaning products (as it turns out there are so many natural things that are anti-bacterial it makes you wonder why cleaning products were invented in the first place).

Some may say I'm crazy (and some may say I smell like a salad, more on that later) but I would argue that neither of those are true. Why buy something that you can make in a mater of minutes? Why use products that claim they are good for your hair and skin when really they are just designed to make you use them more? Why cover your house in chemicals when you can use things from your pantry to achieve the same effect?

I first decided to switch to all natural bath products when I saw the huge success and following of the no-poo revolution. This involves using baking soda as "shampoo" and a vinegar rinse as "conditioner." At the time, I was dying my hair red and upon further investigation I found that baking soda will slowly strip the color out of your hair. This led me to search for an alternative to commercial shampoo that wouldn't ruin my hair color.

I found a handful of posts on using liquid castile soap to create a healthy, natural shampoo that allows you to only wash your hair every 3-5 days! How great is that!?!?! After some adjusting the recipe to my particular hair texture and a bit of a transition period (ok it was a little bit longer than a bit, but I was determined and decided that a month of greasy hair was worth it, sorry about that world). In the end I came up with this recipe. I hope you give it a shot! My hair is so much healthier and shiner!

Homemade shampoo

1 1/2 cups Dr. Bronner's castile soap (any scent you prefer)

1/2 distilled water (this can be bought in a gallon for about a dollar at any grocery store)

1 tablespoon avocado oil

8-10 drops of any essential oil (optional)

Combine all ingredients into an old shampoo bottle and shake gently. Enjoy!

FYI This shampoo is going to be a lot thinner than commercial shampoos because it does not contain any thickening agents. Instead of rubbing it in your hands first it is best to squirt directly on your head. If you feel that your hair is not getting clean you can add more soap.

So now that you have an all natural shampoo you must be wondering what you are supposed to do for conditioner. That's a toss up amongst us hippie folk. Some people make conditioners out of egg yolks, mayonnaise and other weird things that I don't really want to put on my head. My solution to the problem is quite simple. Are you ready for this? (It's also the reason some might argue that I smell like a salad...)

Homemade "conditioner"

2 cups water

1/2 cup apple cider vinegar

That's it, that's all you need. Put the two ingredients in a bottle and squeeze a bit over your head after you wash, then rinse. See, isn't that a simple solution to the problem.

Some science! (This is the part where I try to sound smart).

First off, I'm sure that you are concerned about the smell from the vinegar. I promise, you won't smell, once your hair dries the smell goes away. Also, you must be wondering why the vinegar is a conditioner. First off, it eliminates any potential residue from the soap.

Any vinegar will do, but apple cider vinegar is best. The unfiltered kind contains the vinegar "mother." The mother contains enzymes and minerals which are great for your skin and hair. Also, the acid in the vinegar will help to restore a pH balance on your scalp which will in turn keep your hair healthy. Simple as that.

As for the shampoo, the castile soap is naturally less harsh than soap that is made out of animal fat. This means that it removes less oil from your hair in the first place (which is why you don't have to replace it with a conditioner). This in combination with the vinegar rinse will leave your hair looking shiny and feeling nice, smooth, and in my case, my hair feels thicker, because it is healthier.

Enjoy! And I will chat with you next week!

Operation Sweet Leaf

After most of a year investigating, police arrested sixteen people around the Denver metro today for involvement in a drug trafficking ring, and more arrests are expected. Officers, including SWAT personnel, raided a total of twenty-five houses (fifteen in Adams County, three in Broomfield, four in Denver, and one each in Weld County, Erie and Breckenridge. Unfortunately seven children were found during the raids and had to be placed in children protective services. North Metro Drug Task Force Commander Jerry Peters said, "the illegal pot trafficking crackdown did not involve medical marijuana. The probe targeted illicit growers who were shipping the pot out of state using the U.S. Postal Service."

Due to medical marijuana being legal in Colorado, a growing amount of people have used the low level of laws to hide operations such as this, pretending to grow for legal purposes, but then smuggling the product to other states. This was by far the biggest operation seen. Some of the homes raided, had nothing in them except for the marijuana plants and the required growth facilities, clearly having been bought purely for the purpose of this organization. The homes were located in upscale neighborhoods, in an attempt to avoid any kind of notice.

Operation Sweet Leaf, as it was called, was aided by the joint forces of the North Metro Drug Task Force, Drug Enforcement Agency, Internal Revenue Service, United States Postal Service, South Metro Drug Task Force, Boulder County Drug Task Force, Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Weld County Sheriff’s Office, Denver Police Department Narcotics Unit and Summit County Sheriff’s Office.

Middle East Rundown 1-25-12

First to Yemen, where President Ali Abdullah Saleh not only left the country to seek medical treatment in the US, but left power as well. In November he had signed an agreement to turn power over to Vice President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi, but it took til Monday for him to actually fully leave. Part of the agreement was that he was granted immunity from any prosecution. As he left Saleh said, "I ask for forgiveness from all sons of the nation, women and men, for any shortcomings during my thirty-three years in office." The fate of Yemen is yet unknown as, during the turmoil demanding Saleh's resignation, Al Qaeda made significant gains in the south of the country, including the town of Radda. Saudi Arabia and the United States, whilst stating their deep alliance with the country of Yemen, have done very little to combat the increasing presence of the terrorist organization.

In Bahrain, at least forty-one police were injured when mobs violently attacked and beat them after a leading Shia cleric, Sheikh Isa Qassim, let loose a tirade which included the statement, "Let us die for our honour." as he told his followers to "crush" the Sunni regime. Until today the protests in the country had been peaceful demonstrations. Now it seems the country may see violence take over the movement which opposes the the government of King Hamad Bin Isa al-Khalifa. As in many parts of the Muslim world the differences are between the two different, prominent religious groups.

Jordan's King Abdullah welcomed the leader of Hamas, Khaled Mashaal. The terrorist organization has found it increasingly difficult to keep it's headquarters in Damascus as Syria and Iran have been most unhappy that the group has not put support behind President Assad's beleaguered regime. The Jordanian government had expelled Hamas back in 1999, but relations have warmed up over the last couple years. Unconfirmed reports have Mashall meeting with Palestinian Authority Chairman Mahmoud Abbas, the leader of Fatah, another terrorist organization. If correct it would suggest the rival groups are serious about unifying their efforts.

Demonstrators in Egypt are commemorating the year anniversary of the beginning of the Tahrir Square movement which was successful in toppling President Hosni Mubarak. But instead of festive celebration they are there to protest the continued control of the government by the military council, which they accuse of still carrying out the orders of Mubarak. The council is supposed to maintain power until the newly elected parliament is ready to do so. In the election, nearly half of the seats went to parties controlled by the Muslim Brotherhood, parties which had been illegal under Mubarak's rule.

The interim Libyan government, National Transition Council, found its militia chased out of Bani Walid. Fighters of the Warfallah tribe have taken control and been recognized as the official local government. Both sides agreed to concessions, stating that, "to keep the whole country peaceful and that national unity was a priority," per Salah al-Maayuf, a member of the Warfallah Elders Counci. Many other towns and villages are likely to have similar circumstances occur, as the central government has very little control.


Iran and Syria continue to be thorns in the side of the United States, European Union, and the United Nations. It has only increased due to continued Russian opposition towards any kind of sanctions or military intervention. Russia has placed naval troops in the area, and stated that she is their friend no matter what comes. She has also moved up to supplying them with military hardware. It had been expected Russia would back down from their support, after China did so on Saturday. The Chinese and Russians had been the only countries providing any kind of support to the two allies. But as long as the Russians continue this posture, no UN resolutions will be possible, due to Russia's veto powers on the UN Security Council.

Russian Jets for Syria

Russia and Syria have announced a deal in which Syria will purchase combat training jets. US State Department spokeswoman Victoria Nuland said, "If it's accurate, it would be quite concerning. Our firm belief is that any country that is still trading in weapons and armaments with Syria really needs to think twice." Russian Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Rogozin replied, "No one must interfere with Syria. This is dangerous." Russia is already taking heat for vetoing a UN Security Council resolution to sanction Syria and is under questioning as to why it's navy delivered munitions earlier this month, when on a 'show of friendship' mission.

Over the last ten months, the Syrian government has been brutally oppressing it's people for demanding that President Bashar al-Assad leave power. It is estimate that near ten thousand have been killed in the conflict, which has led to civil war in some parts of the country. One of the latest deaths was that of Syrian Red Crescent vice-president Abdulrazak Jbeiro, who was assassinated on his way to investigate the city of Idlib, which has been a center of the violence. The Red Crescent, is a Muslim organization that has much the same role of the Red Cross. Both the security forces and local anti government forces were quick to point fingers at each other.

Occupy Camp Igloo

Davos, Switzerland is now the home to Occupy's Camp Igloo, sponsored by Occupy WEF. They're in the process of building twenty-five to fifty igloos in preparation for the of arrival of the World Economic Forum, a group clearly likely to pay heed to their shrill whining about being the ninety-nine percent. Or not at all.

Why igloos? Cause it's mid winter in Switzerland and temperatures are between ten and twenty-three degrees Fahrenheit? Or is it because they hate snow and so are purposefully turning it into ice and then desecrating it with their foul stench, not to mention how they smell?

Random thought, but if you're taking all this time to build a home to protest people who have money, why not start a non profit construction company and build permanent houses for the homeless. But no, then you'd be thinking of someone other than yourself. And having to work! Perish that thought. Go have fun in your ice house.

Reagan's Democrat Platform

Iran Back to Threats

The USS Abraham Lincoln, which carries more firepower than the entire Iranian air force can muster, was accompanied by her normal escorts plus English and French ships as she made her way through the Strait of Hormuz and into the Persian Gulf. Making it seem as if Iran was bringing itself to some sort of reasonable state and that the government was standing down from their extreme stance after they had warned that no US carrier would be allowed into the Gulf. But that all changed today when the European Union announced a complete ban on Iranian oil.

Iran was quick to throw fuel back on the fire. "If any disruption happens regarding the sale of Iranian oil, the Strait of Hormuz will definitely be closed," stated Mohammad Kossari, deputy head of parliament's foreign affairs and national security committee, "If America seeks adventures after the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, Iran will make the world unsafe for Americans in the shortest possible time."

The EU sanctions will not actually go into effect until July 1, so as to not hurt the economies of European nations who need time to find alternate sources. Former Intelligence Minister Ali Fallahian, a current member of the Assembly of Experts, said Tehran, "should respond to the delayed-action EU sanctions by stopping sales to the bloc immediately, denying the Europeans time to arrange alternative supplies and damaging their economies with higher oil prices. The best way is to stop exporting oil ourselves before the end of this six months and before the implementation of the plan." In such a move Iran would have to hope that other sources would buy their oil, but as even, long time ally, China has cut their buying of Iranian oil there may be little hope there.

Jihadist Arrested in Chicago

Jamshid Muhtorov, of Aurora, Colorado, was arrested at Chicago O'Hare Airport on charges of working with and providing materials to a terrorist organization. His organization of choice is the Islamic Jihad Union, an extremist group based out of Pakistan that according to the Department of Justice "adheres to an anti-western ideology, opposes secular rule in Uzbekistan, and seeks to replace the current regime with a government based on Islamic law. A group that has committed attacks upon coalition forces in Afghanistan as well as suicide bombings in Uzbekistan. Muhtorov is a refugee from Uzbekistan and has gone by various aliases.

The FBI had been monitoring and investigating Mutorov for awhile, but moved in as he was making his way overseas to join the IJU. He was not planning on any sort of attacks against targets within the United States, but to join them in their fight there. "Muhtorov allegedly has sworn allegiance to the IJU, stating he was ready for any task, even with the risk of dying. The alleged activities of Muhtorov highlight the continued interest of extremists residing in the United States to join and support overseas terrorists," U.S. District Attorney for Colorado John Walsh said in a news release. If convicted Muhtorov will face up to fifteen years in prison and a fine of up to two hundred fifty thousand dollars.

Arab League Seeks UN Help

The Arab League has demanded that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad resign from his office and turn power over to his vice president. They furthermore called for the Syrian government to start a dialogue with the opposition within two weeks and for a unity government to be formed within two months. The temporary government would then have three months to write a new constitution and then hold parliamentary and presidential elections. The Syrian government quickly rejected the proposal. And now the Arab League will submit it to the UN for international backing.

Til now the Arab League had been content to extend it's observation mission another month, but Saudi Arabia had stated it would pull it's observers out, stating that Syria had not lived up to it's part of the agreement. Under the agreement for observers, Assad's government was to, "cease all violence against civilians, free political detainees, remove tanks and weapons from cities and allow outsiders, including the international news media, to travel freely in Syria". Very little of which happened.

Saturday alone saw the deaths of at least fifty-nine. Since last March when protests began, it is estimated that up to ten thousand have been killed in the violence, that in some areas of the country has gone all the way to civil war.

USS Abraham Lincoln Enters the Persian Gulf

The USS Abraham Lincoln continued it's routine mission and has passed through the Strait of Hormuz and into the Persian Gulf without incident. After all the hype, Iran's threats really just were bluster. Iran backed down with a message from Revolutionary Guard Corps Deputy Commander Hossein Salami, "U.S. warships and military forces have been in the Persian Gulf and the Middle East region for many years and their decision in relation to the dispatch of a new warship is not a new issue and it should be interpreted as part of their permanent presence."

Previously in December, Iranian army chief Ataollah Salehi had threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz and specified that any United States carrier that attempted to enter the Gulf would come under attack. Since then hostilities had only escalated, partially due to the assassination of an Iranian scientist, that Iran blamed on the US, Britain, and Israel.


Iran has not backed down from their threats to retaliate against the US and her allies if they do not cancel their planned sanctions against Iran. The sanctions are being placed in response to Iran's continued nuclear program, that many fear is an attempt to produce weapons. Even Iran's long time ally, China, has cut trade down with Iran due to their refusal to cooperate with the international community. In fact, the European Union is planning to intensify their sanctions and announced that they may freeze the assets of Iran's central bank.


To add to Iran's troubles, Turkey announced that they seized a shipment of chemical weapons, that had been sent from Iran and were headed to civil strife torn Syria. The United Nations announced that they are investigating the incident. Only Russia's defense is likely to keep the UN from setting it's own sanctions against Iran. Though Russia may back down from that as they are also the only international country that is backing Assad's government in Syria.

Giffords Resigns

Via her Facebook, Arizona Representative Gabrielle Giffords, has announced she will retire. “I have more work to do on my recovery so to do what is best for Arizona I will step down this week. I’m getting better every day, my spirit is high.”

It was just over a year ago, that Giffords was shot by Jared Lee Loughner, in an apparent assassination attempt. In the attack a total of thirteen were wounded and six died. Loughner plead not guilty in March, and his competency to with stand trial is still being decided.

Even her survival is miraculous after taking a near point blank shot to the head. Sadly due to her injuries she has lost about half of her vision, needs a cane to walk, and her ability so speak has been slowed. Clearly a fighter, she is someone Americans can look up to for striving to succeed and survive.

Repercussions of Scottish Independence

Earlier this month we brought you a story about the Scottish seeking independence from Britain. It's time now to take a more in depth look at some repercussions that such a move would have for the rest of Great Britain.

1) Loss of resources. Scotland contains ninety percent of the oil and natural gas of the United Kingdom. And is roughly half of it's land mass.

2) It would possibly cost the UK their permanent place as part of the United Nations Security Council. One that has already been argued to be taken away from them as it is, since the council was designed off the world power stage of 1945. They would be likely to be replaced by an economic power such as Germany or Japan.

3) The UK bases their nuclear weapons in Scotland, so any independence would mean that England would have to find a new home for it's weapon systems and nuclear submarines. Especially as the Scottish National Party has declared that an independent Scotland would have no part in nuclear weaponry. Unfortunately for England, they do not have a port that is as perfect as Faslane for such a base. And creating one would be rather expensive. In fact England might not be able to come up with such a home for them.

4) Great Britain would also lose any troops that are from Scotland. Cutting their military numbers, and making them less able to continue their place in the world.

5) Differences in foreign policy may create tensions between the two countries. In the past Scotland has only once made it's own policy, but it has argued to do so on other occasions as well.

The Scottish National Party has announced the referendum for independence will be held in the autumn of 2014, on the seven hundredth anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn, depicted at the end of the movie Braveheart, where Scottish forces once won independence from England. Until that time many issues will be discussed by both the Scottish and British parliaments. Both sides will bring about the best or worst parts of such a decision. The Scottish people will likely never have such an important vote.

Atlanta Paper Calls for Assassination of Obama

Andrew Adler, the owner and publisher of the Atlanta Jewish Times wrote an op ed piece on what Israel should be doing. In it he called for Israel to send Mossad agents to terminate the life of the unfriendly president. Not only did he state it once in his article, but then reiterated it to be sure he was taken clearly and seriously. He has issued an apology, but is that good enough?

The article listed three options for Israel to counter Iran’s nuclear weapons. The first is to launch a pre-emptive strike against Hamas and Hezbollah, the second is to attack Iran’s nuclear facilities and the third is to “give the go-ahead for U.S.-based Mossad agents to take out a president deemed unfriendly to Israel in order for the current vice president to take his place and forcefully dictate that the United States’ policy includes its helping the Jewish state obliterate its enemies. Yes, you read 'three correctly.' Order a hit on a president in order to preserve Israel’s existence. Think about it. If I have thought of this Tom-Clancy-type scenario, don’t you think that this almost unfathomable idea has been discussed in Israel’s most inner circles?”

No matter what your thoughts on President Barack Obama, this should piss you off. No American should ever actually call for the assassination of any American President. The very idea is wrong, immoral, repugnant, and illegal. If you or I did this we would at the very least be jailed while we were investigated for such statements. In fact, under the NDAA they wouldn't even have to do that, they can just detain us indefinitely as a terrorist. Making such a statement is treason, and in most countries would be treated as such. Mr. Adler is very lucky not to be in some deep dark place at this time.

Egypt Elects The Muslim Brotherhood

The elections in Egypt have come to a close with The Muslim Brotherhood, and it's ally the Justice Party combining, to take forty-seven percent of the seats in Parliament. The next mission for Parliament is to write a new constitution for the country. At the same time the people are still protesting against the military which has had power since President Hosni Mubarak was removed from office. Protestors are calling for mass rallies on January 25, the anniversary of the first one against Mubarak, to protest the military's control. The military has promised to surrender control of the country once a new president is elected in June.

International worries include the extent of the Egyptian military's power, but also focus on the extremist nature of the Brotherhood, which has already stated it would not abide by the peace treaty with Israel. With Iran already causing trouble in the Middle East, and turmoil in Syria, Yemen, and other countries; the area hardly needs another non peaceful government. Israel has already discussed that they are prepared for any eventuality in Syria, and it can be guaranteed they are preparing for any possibility with Egypt as well. Hopefully they will not have to worry and this new Egyptian government will change it's mind and stay peaceful.

Joe Paterno, Dead at 85

Joe Paterno, former head coach of Penn State, has died at the age of 85. In the forty-six years as head coach there the Nittany Lions finished ranked in the top twenty-five, thirty-five times; had five undefeated seasons; and two national titles. He holds the record for being the coach with most wins in his career. Sadly the last of his career was tainted with scandal and he was forced to retire. Given a few more weeks, he would've been forced to by his battle with lung cancer anyways.

“He died as he lived,” the family statement said. “He fought hard until the end, stayed positive, thought only of others and constantly reminded everyone of how blessed his life had been. His ambitions were far reaching, but he never believed he had to leave this Happy Valley to achieve them. He was a man devoted to his family, his university, his players and his community.” Paterno died "with a peaceful mind, comforted by his 'living legacy' of five kids, 17 grandchildren, and hundreds of young men whose lives he changed in more ways than can begin to be counted." They also asked that instead of flowers, people donate to Special Olympics of Pennsylvania or the Penn State-THON.

He was without a doubt, an enduring figure in college football, if not sports in general. His energy, excitement, and love for the game and his players will be missed. Joe Paterno deserves to be remembered for his whole life, not for his small part in the scandal. Hopefully that will be how he is. He one said, "What are coaches? Number one, we're teachers and we're educators. We have the same obligation as all teachers at our institutions, expect we probably have more influence over our young people than anyone other than their families."

Chemical Weapons For Syria

The United States has announced that it may close it's embassy in Damascus, if the Syrian government doesn't beef up security around it. Violence in Syria has been increasing through out the year as President Assad's regime is all the more beleaguered by protestors, civil war, and defections. Only the trouble causing state of Iran, Russia, and the Lebanese terrorist group Hezbollah have backed his government.

Meanwhile Turkey has announced that they have seized yet another arms shipment from Iran, that was trying to enter Syria. This one however, contained chemical weapons and weapon systems. The United Nations has involved itself in this find. Such a discovery is only likely to bring more isolation upon both Iran and Syria. That Syria may have been considering using such weapons shows the truly desperate mindset of the regime. Bashar al-Assad's days as President are numbered. There is no way he can ever regain control. All that is left to him is to go into hiding or face death at the hands of the Syrian people who have seen too many killed over the last year's protests.

The Arab League has now decided that they will continue the mission of their observers for another month, despite the Syrian opposition now asking that it be turned over to the UN Security Council. An Arab League spokesman said that they wished to handle inside the Arab world. As they talk the violence continues, and deaths are added to the total, that is nearing ten thousand.

Prince William to The Falklands

The British have announced that Prince William will be going to the Falkland Islands as part of a normal squadron rotation. This move comes just days after British Prime Minister David Cameron accused Argentina of colonialism. Argentina has once again been pressuring the Falklands to give up being British and surrender themselves to Argentinian rule. The last time Argentina acted like this, they invaded the islands in 1982, forcing the British to send troops to free the islands from the invaders.

This time around Argentina has gotten several other South American countries to sign a trade agreement refusing to ships flying the flag of the Falklands to enter their harbours, in attempt to coerce the islands into giving up their self determination. Argentina is after possible oil and natural gas, that may lie off shore, inside the island's territory. Argentinians have been protesting in front of the British Embassy in the Argentinian capital of Buenos Aires, burning Union Jacks.

Sending Prince William is a huge move by the British, making a clear statement on how important they consider this situation, and that they will not abandon the Falkland Islands to face the Argentinian belligerence alone.

William, the Duke of Cambridge, grandson to Queen Elizabeth II, is expected by many to be the next king of England. His father, Charles, may still take rule after the Queen, but not likely for long considering his age. William works in search and rescue missions for the Royal Air Force.

US Carrier Prepares to Enter Gulf, China Joins Against Iran

The USS Abraham Lincoln has joined the USS Carl Vinson in the North Arabian Sea. Within the next couple weeks one of the carriers will make the move through the Strait of Hormuz into the Persian gulf. Pretty standard, as the United States normally does maintain one carrier in each body of water. But this time the threat situation is different.

In December, Iran threatened to close the Strait of Hormuz. A sixth of all western oil flows through there, so such a move would have huge economic repercussions. Iran made the threat after President Obama and other world leaders promised new sanctions on the country for it's continued nuclear program. The Iranian government followed that threat with another one, stating that no US carriers would be allowed to enter the Persian Gulf.

The situation has been worse, after an Iranian scientist was assassinated in Tehran. Iran was quick to blame Israel, the US, and the United Kingdom for the attack, even claiming they have proof of the CIA and MI6's involvement. Russia entered the fray with a very bold statement that, "any attack on Tehran is an attack on Moscow"; and that they will defend Iran from "western aggression". The response from the United States Navy has been to continue normal functions, though on higher alert, and to rescue three groups of Iranian fishermen from pirates and their own sinking ships.

Now enter China, Iran's long time ally. "China adamantly opposes Iran developing and possessing nuclear weapons," Wen Jiabao, the Chinese premier, was quoted as saying. China followed this statement by cutting their oil imports from Iran, by half. A huge number considering how much oil China has been taking in. The premier continued to say, "Some people said my visit was to secure oil, which is narrow-minded. I came here for friendship." Interestingly enough China has apparently decided that world opinion matters more than defending a single country.

So now we must wait and see when the United States carrier goes into the Strait, what will Iran do? Will they go through with their threats, and hope Russia will really save them? Or will they just simply back down, realizing that such stupidity would truly not be worth it. Expect Russia to make the first response, either by reinforcing their statements or by backing down on them now that China won't be joining them.

Diplomatic Immunity Abuse

We've all seen it on the TV shows, a diplomat commits some crime, but nothing can be done because of their diplomatic immunity. Well it happens in reality quite often. Most of the time it's for violation traffic laws, sometimes theft, other times abusing domestic employees, and at times more serious crimes are gotten away with because of diplomatic immunity.

Last Sunday, it was Si Hong Ri, North Korean ambassador to Germany who committed a crime that would mean fines and up to two years in jail. The ambassador was caught fishing without a license. When police first found him they asked him to stop he simply smiled, claimed to be the ambassador but stated that he didn't have papers proving who he was, and continued his fishing. Not wanting to get themselves in trouble the polezi called it in and asked for a picture of the ambassador to be sent to them. One was and it showed him to be telling the truth. The officers again asked him to stop, but he simply smiled and continued once again.

Now illegal fishing of this nature is not that big of a crime, and diplomatic immunity is definitely a time honored tradition. However, diplomats do in actuality get away with series things, including violent crimes like murder, simply because they can flash credentials and walk away. Worse case scenario for most of them, is being barred from the country they were in, and being sent home. It is a shame and a travesty that they can get away with such things. It is along the same lines of people who simply buy their way out of trouble. The rules of diplomatic immunity must be changed to allow for criminal persecution, especially when people were harmed, when the laws were broken.

In Ambassador Si Hong Ri's case, hopefully he really was hungry and went without catching anything.

Etta James, Dead at 73

Early Friday, Etta James passed on at the age of 73. Born Jamesette Hawkins on January 25, 1938 she was discovered singing on a street corner in San Fransisco. Her life as a star was a constant struggle, due to various addictions that she eventually over came, but she will always be remembered for her voice. Without a doubt one of the greatest American singers, and likely the greatest soul singer. She had many hits over the years, bringing her four Grammy awards, but none so famous as a song that came out before she was known, which she made her own in 1961, "At Last".

Falkland Conflict Rekindled

It has been almost thirty years since April 2, 1982, when Argentina invaded and occupied British commonwealth of the Falkland Island and South Georgia. After 74 days the Falklands War ended with the Argentinian surrender on June 14, 1982. Six hundred forty-nine Argentine military personnel, two hundred fifty-five British military personnel and three Falkland Islanders died over the duration of the conflict. Before the war the two countries had argued for over a century who was the rightful owner of the islands.

And now Argentina is once again pressuring the possibly oil and natural gas rich Falkland Islands to submit to their rule, whilst Prime Minister David Cameron, following in the footsteps of Margaret Thatcher, is defending the Falklanders desire to remain British citizens. Argentina has even gone as far as getting Brazil, Uruguay, and Chile to sign an agreement to turn away any ships flying Falkland colours.

Hopefully Argentina does not go as far as they did last time, and start a war over it. But if they should be so stupid, Prime Minister Cameron seems up to the job, just as Thatcher was, and will defend the islands from their neighbor's aggression and colonialist goals. Irony, again, that the old empire is the one who now defends others from becoming prey to the imperialistic visions of someone else.

Occupy Denver Cooperates?

In a shocking change, it seems Occupy Denver is learning to cooperate with the city. Wednesday, when asked to, they cleared the sidewalk they've inhabited so that city workers could clean it. This is a huge step forward for the movement, who in the past have resisted such attempts and forced the city to evict them each time. The last time, some of their members lit fires as police moved in to enforce the eviction. With this sign of intelligence within the movement, maybe they could actually transform from a whiny, drugged out mob, into a legit political action group as they claim to be.

Other than the fires, the Denver group is most famous for electing Shelby, the three year old border collie, as it's leader; the massively failed attempt to invade BlogCon11; for being met by the Larimer County Posse when they tried to block a Walmart distribution center in Loveland; and for braving the snow and well below freezing temperatures.

Perry Out, Supports Gingrich

Texas Governor Rick Perry has officially dropped out of the Presidential race, and supported Newt Gingrich. With Perry out, we are left with the scenario we had discussed before, who to support in 2012 between Ron Paul, Mitt Romney, and Newt Gingrich. And we are still at the same conclusion, Newt is the best option of the three.

There are definite reasons people like Perry, Thomas Sowell, Tim LaHaye, and almost Sarah Palin have or will endorse Gingrich. To quote Sowell, "Why not vote for the candidate who has shown the best track record of accomplishments, both in office and in the debates? That is Newt Gingrich. With all his shortcomings, his record shows that he knows how to get the job done in Washington."

Gingrich has proven himself to be more conservative than Romney. He was the last speaker of the house to succeed in having a balanced budget for the country. Newt is electable, as unlike Ron Paul he isn't seen by most of the country as someone to ignore or thought to be out right crazy.

Tis time to face the facts. We are down to the time where we must decide. There will not be anyone else entering the field, as much as we might for hope for Condoleezza Rice (yes I'm still waving my #RiceRyan2012). The remaining candidates will all be dropping out and supporting one of these three. Newt is not perfect, no one is. But of the big three he is the best hope for America in 2012.

US Helps Iranian Fishermen, Again

The United States Navy has once again come to the aid of Iranian fisherman. This marks the third time this month that they have done so. The first time the USS Kidd, freed a group that had been held captive, for over a month, by Somali pirates. Iran's response was to say thanks, but we think you rigged the whole thing. A few days later, the US Coast Guard saved a crew of fishermen who's boat was sinking out from under them. Iran refused to comment on that one. And now, a week later, this group is rescued by other fishermen, but don't have enough supplies. So what did the USS Dewey do? They gifted them with one hundred and fifty pounds of "food, water, medical, and hygienic supplies".

One would hope, and maybe even think, that such humanitarian acts of good will would help ease tensions between the United States and Iran, but that's not the case. If Iran deigns to respond, it will likely be another accusation or maybe continued harassment of US forces in the Persian Gulf. With Russia joining the verbal war, on the Iranian side, things have not gotten any better. President Obama may be trying to start a cold war with China, but it definitely looks like Russia is trying to get the old cold war going again.

Or maybe all of this US aid, of Iranians, will somehow reach the Iranian people and they will remember it. In all the violent revolutions and protests going on in the Middle East, as well as the belligerence of the Iranian government, the Iranian Green Movement seems to have been forgotten. With some real luck the people of Iran will find their way to freedom from the tyranny of Ahmadinejad and look upon the US as a friend.

Russia and The Wretched Tyrant

Russia has once again declared their support of the Syrian government. The Russians originally announced the support by sending an aircraft carrier flotilla to the country, and having each ship's captain go on Syrian TV pledging the support of the Rodina. And now Russia pledges to not only defend the country from outside interference, but block any UN resolution to even sanction the country. Russia claims that the "western countries" are one sided against the regime of President Assad. Earlier this week Russia also pledged to defend Iran, stating that any attack on Tehran would be counted as an attack on Moscow.

The United Kingdom's Prime Minister, David Cameron, has accused Iran and Lebanon's Hezbollah of aiding the regime of the "wretched tyrant". Stating that Turkey has proof of arms shipments to Syrian security forces. He continued to pledge that the UK would "lead the way" in ensuring stronger sanctions against Assad's regime. Interestingly enough, Hezbollah just this week released a statement of support for President Bashar al-Assad's crackdown, and added that all members of the opposition should turn themselves in and accept an offer of amnesty.

Arab League observers are still hoping that their presence will end the violence, that has killed an estimated fifty-five hundred people since March. So far they have been ineffective, and may have actually been the cause for more. China, however is strongly encouraging their continued and expanded presence. The Arab League says they will continue debate on Syria, Saturday and Sunday. The Emir of Qatar is calling for troops to be used to ensure peace, but so far he is alone in that.

One Year Down, Now to The Future

It was one year and two days ago, January 15, 2011, that I posted my first blog. On March 29, 2011 Landmark Report published the first of several pieces I had written. The year ended with fifty-five entries, and just under nineteen thousand views.

Now in 2012, currently sitting at 21,415 views, this will be the twenty-fifth piece of the year, with hopes to surpass last year's total in just the month of January. This year has already seen some big changes. The blog has gone from being just a blogger site, to having it's own domain. It has it's own Twitter account and, as of today, a Facebook one too.

Plans are underway to see the basic layout, that you currently see, be replaced with an entirely new design. The focus will still be on news, current events, and politics; but areas for food, sports, music, movies, gaming, and others will appear. By the end of 2012, our goal is to be more than a staff of one and to be using multiple medias to reach you.

We are very grateful to all of you who have supported and spread us throughout our first year of adventures. We hope you will continue to bear with us through the coming growing pains, and that you are as excited as us to see what the next year (and the many beyond that) will bring. You the readers have made this all possible. Thank you!

Centaurs and Tattooine

A centaur is but one of the skeletons you will see at the "Mythological Wildlife" exhibit at Tucson's International Wildlife Museum. The latest exhibit was designed by sculptor and zoologist Bill Willers from the University of Wisconsin at Oshkosh. The goal is mostly to get people to open their minds, and explore the possibilities of what was, or might have been. And then there's just the fun of it. Scheduled to be showing til 2014, you may want to take the opportunity to see this, and the regular exhibits of actual animals, if you have the chance.

Scientists now estimate that the Tattooine planets, are but two of a possible one hundred billion planets in existence throughout the universe. Up to seven hundred planets have already been confirmed by astronomers, who now figure that on average every star could have at least one planet. Their main goal is to find habitable ones in the "Goldilocks zone", unfortunately with not much luck so far. They do however keep discovering new planets, doing new things, and continue to help us expand our imaginations.

The importance of human imagination can never be underestimated. It is what makes us intelligent beings. Without the ability to creatively think, we wouldn't truly be sentient.  No matter what remember to just think about the possibilities of how to better the world.

I Have a Dream

Easily one of the greatest Americans of all time, let alone the 20th century, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. fought for what he believed in, equality and freedom for all. His policies of peaceful protest and civil disobedience were very key towards his success. His "I Have a Dream" speech is one of the most famous in all of history, and is often quoted still. His death is one of the greatest tragedies in American history. One can't help but wonder how much more he could have accomplished had he lived a longer life. He is one man that I can truly say I would love to have had the respect of.

Like the great Martin Luther King Jr. I too have a dream, one that I truly believe he would have shared.
I dream of the day where colour truly doesn't matter. Where race, sex, or age are just descriptions not qualifiers.
I have a dream of an America where all men are truly created equal. Where how a person does things matters more than what they do for a living. Where equality will be earned on moral grounds, not enforced by government regulations.
I have a dream that my children will not be shackled in debt to big government. That they will be free of oppression from all levels of government, especially any foreign one. Where their fellow man will be willing to work beside them to build this great country called America; not destroy it with excessive government programs, high taxation, and foreign debt.
I have a dream that America will be ruled by morality, justice and law; not by taxation, tyranny, and political correctness.
I have a dream that politicians won't be industry and special interests' bought puppets, but men and women of moral character that felt the call to public service to improve the country for all Americans. People who believe in American exceptionalism and will bring America back to being the single world leader in everything.

Russia to Defend Iran

After the assassination of a scientist in Tehran, Iran was quick to point blame at Israel and the United States. Now, they claim to have proof that the American CIA and British MI6 were directly involved. The US has denied any role and Britain condemned the killing of any civilians, whilst Israel said they weren't directly inolved. Gen. Masoud Jazayeri, spokesman for Iran’s military, was quoted by one of the Iranian state news channels, ISNA, as saying that Tehran was “reviewing the punishment” of “behind-the-scene elements” involved in the assassination. An obvious message that Iran is planning to retaliate.

United States Navy and Coast Guard forces have saved Iranian sailors twice in recent weeks. The Iranian response was to accuse the US of staging the first rescue, and then completely ignored the second. And now they harass US ships in a continued thank you. This does nothing to help ease tensions that are at all time highs due to the assassination of the scientist and Iran's threats to close the Strait of Hormuz over promised sanctions, due to Iran's continued nuclear program. President Ahmadinejad stated once again that sanctions will not have any effect on the program, and that any military intervention will be dealt with firmly.

Russia not content to only state that they will back the Syrian government against it's opposition, have now decided to stand with Iran as well. The Russian government has stated that, "Any attack on Tehran is an attack on Moscow". This complicates any decision by the US and her allies, or the UN for that matter, to enforce the end of Iran's nuclear program. Russia's bringing in of naval forces to the area, has been countered by the French and British navies. China, and now Japan, have spoken out against further sanctions as well, but unlike Russia have not stated they will defend Iran with their own military forces.

Turkey on the other hand has publicly joined the US side of the argument, as a radar station has been made operational in Turkey. The base is manned by Turkish and US forces. Iran has issued a protest against US involvement in the area.