This is a pretty worrying development- because US Forces are seizing too many weapons in Iraq (7million small arms) some bright spark has come up with the idea of creating an aerosol spray to aid them in rendering said weapons inoperable-
What the agency want to see instead: a non-toxic spray that can "penetrate rapidly into the [weapon's] active firing and/or actuation mechanisms and render them instantly and permanently inoperable."
The formulation will produce an accelerated corrosion (or other) reaction over a longer period of time (a few months or less), perhaps using the weapon material itself as a metallic catalyst, to destroy the weapon internal structure. The formulation must be effective in small quantities (i.e., a few grams per weapon), safe to use, stable over the range of operational temperature/humidity conditions, have a long shelf-life, be capable of large-area dissemination, and produce a non-toxic residue after the weapon is destroyed...
[The spray] must not be reversed by simple chemical, thermal, or other means. Such a chemical system has the potential to enable the systematic and effective removal of small arms from the battlespace.
The big problem with however is that how is the spray to distinguish between guns and other metallic objects? Is it similarly going to corrode cars, engines, etc?
And what the heck happens if the formula gets out? What if terrorists or an enemy army are able to replicate the mixture and spray it/airburst it over US military installations or positions?
Seems like a good few governments would like to see this produced too- to completely disarm their citizens.
Time to store your weapons in a baggie? That would be a really cheap way to foil this no-doubt horrendously expensive research program.
Tuesday, March 07, 2006
Monday, March 06, 2006
Flight of Fantasy
An image of Marvel Comics character Black Widow by artist Bill Sienkiewicz. Inspired by Cowboy Blob's "Boobs and Boomsticks" series of posts.
No Oil Shortage?
There is some debate about just how oil is created- some scientists believe that it actually forms in the Earth's crust as a by-product of geological processes. If that is the case, and it's a theory I'm led to believe had gained a great deal of acceptance amongst Russian scientists, then oil isn't going to run out any time soon. As long as our demand doesn't outstrip the continued production then everything will work out just fine.
Clayton Cramer points me towards an intriguing article on a new car engine design-
The essence of the idea is that when the exhaust gases leave the cylinder, spray in water. The water immediately turns to steam from the engine heat--and drives the piston down. What was purely a stroke returning the piston to position to accept another charge of fuel and air is now a power stroke.
The new design is projected to use about 40% less petrol than a standard engine.
Finally, the US Department of Energy believes it has a method of quadrupling US oil reserves by pumping CO2 into depleted oil and gas fields.
The United States, the world's top oil consumer, has been successfully pumping small amounts or carbon dioxide into depleted oil and natural gas fields for 30 years to push out hard-to-reach fossil fuels.The DOE said 89 billion barrels could potentially be added to current proved U.S. oil reserves of 21.9 billion barrels through injection of carbon dioxide.
Clayton Cramer points me towards an intriguing article on a new car engine design-
The essence of the idea is that when the exhaust gases leave the cylinder, spray in water. The water immediately turns to steam from the engine heat--and drives the piston down. What was purely a stroke returning the piston to position to accept another charge of fuel and air is now a power stroke.
The new design is projected to use about 40% less petrol than a standard engine.
Finally, the US Department of Energy believes it has a method of quadrupling US oil reserves by pumping CO2 into depleted oil and gas fields.
The United States, the world's top oil consumer, has been successfully pumping small amounts or carbon dioxide into depleted oil and natural gas fields for 30 years to push out hard-to-reach fossil fuels.The DOE said 89 billion barrels could potentially be added to current proved U.S. oil reserves of 21.9 billion barrels through injection of carbon dioxide.
Kerry Supports Terrorists In Government
John Kerry, failed White House contender, made a trip to Northern Ireland to give a lecture at the University of Ulster on "21st Century Security".
Kerry apparently made issue of the Bush administration pushing the N. Ireland conflict down the foreign policy agenda during the run up to the election- perhaps the US fighting a war wasn't important enough for Kerry. He has angered Unionists here with the following statement-
They (the Democratic Unionist Party) "should not be allowed to disenfranchise half the population of Northern Ireland by refusing to form a government with Sinn Fein".
In other words, Kerry believes that we should allow armed, still active terrorists into government here.
Kerry apparently made issue of the Bush administration pushing the N. Ireland conflict down the foreign policy agenda during the run up to the election- perhaps the US fighting a war wasn't important enough for Kerry. He has angered Unionists here with the following statement-
They (the Democratic Unionist Party) "should not be allowed to disenfranchise half the population of Northern Ireland by refusing to form a government with Sinn Fein".
In other words, Kerry believes that we should allow armed, still active terrorists into government here.
Is This A Joke?
Jihad Watch reports on the strange case of two men arguing about religion-
Athens: An Orthodox Christian and a Muslim man who were travelling to Germany were forcibly put on separate flights after they began fighting over their religious beliefs at the international airport here, reports said on Thursday.
Well, that certainly proves that he was the more religious of the two.
Athens: An Orthodox Christian and a Muslim man who were travelling to Germany were forcibly put on separate flights after they began fighting over their religious beliefs at the international airport here, reports said on Thursday.
The men, bound for a flight to Frankfurt, began arguing on the bus as they were being transferred from the terminal to the plane.
According to reports, the two men started fighting over who was the more religious of the two when the Muslim man, fed up with being attacked, suddenly exclaimed that he was going to blow up everyone on the plane.
JW's final comment-Well, that certainly proves that he was the more religious of the two.
The Future of the Press?
Perhaps this is an example of the press at large will have to function in the future.
A student’s column in the Oregon State University campus newspaper has prompted protests by Muslim students, who say it is offensive to their faith.
DD Bixby, the Oregon State University's Daily Barometer’s editor-in-chief said "editors have been checking copy with Muslim students, and on Tuesday deleted one paragraph from a piece scheduled to be published the next day. "
Voluntarily allowing their paper to be censored. What happened to the crusading reporter seeking out the truth? What happened to freedom of the press? Are they going to allow Christians, Jews, Buddhists, Sikhs and Hindus to read the paper before it goes to print just in case some of them get offended too? Surely Muslims aren't being granted preferential treatment?
A student’s column in the Oregon State University campus newspaper has prompted protests by Muslim students, who say it is offensive to their faith.
DD Bixby, the Oregon State University's Daily Barometer’s editor-in-chief said "editors have been checking copy with Muslim students, and on Tuesday deleted one paragraph from a piece scheduled to be published the next day. "
Voluntarily allowing their paper to be censored. What happened to the crusading reporter seeking out the truth? What happened to freedom of the press? Are they going to allow Christians, Jews, Buddhists, Sikhs and Hindus to read the paper before it goes to print just in case some of them get offended too? Surely Muslims aren't being granted preferential treatment?
NYC Demo
Atlas Shrugs has an account of the sammenhold rally held in New York City. Only a single journalist from the The Statesman turned up to cover the event. There were no Hollywood celebrities there to lend their "appeal".
Seems like saving the life of a convicted murderer is a good cause for a celebrity, but protesting attacks on free speech is a bad cause for them?
Strange world we live in.
Seems like saving the life of a convicted murderer is a good cause for a celebrity, but protesting attacks on free speech is a bad cause for them?
Strange world we live in.
Petition
Agora reports that there is now an online petition to support the manifesto against Islamic Totalitarianism. The petition is being aimed at both the White House and the UN- there is apparently an effort to produce a convention to ban slander of religious figures (e.g. Mohammed). It's a grievous attack on our freedom of speech- I urge you all to sign the petition and also to spread the word.
The petition can be found here.
The petition can be found here.
Friday, March 03, 2006
Saddam's Crimes
Michael J. Totten has produced an excellent piece on his stay in Suleimaniya. It's a must read- particularly for any people who consider the Abu Ghraib scandal on a par with what went on while Saddam Hussein was still in power.
The hardest thing to see was the cell used to hold children before they were murdered. My translator Alan read some of the messages carved into the wall.
And then there's this, from commenter Martin Kunert who made the documentary "Voices of Iraq"-
"Two years ago, I produced the documentary film VOICES OF IRAQ, where we sent 150 DV cameras across Iraq and allowed Iraqis to film their own lives. The cameras got into the prison you visted and others. I viewed several hours of video and testimony detailing the horrors of Saddam's torture. One woman recalled tearfully how her newborn baby was fed to dogs infront of her eyes. Another video shows floors stained with blood and fat that liquified off torture victoms and poured onto the tiles below them."
The hardest thing to see was the cell used to hold children before they were murdered. My translator Alan read some of the messages carved into the wall.
“I was ten years old. But they changed my age to 18 for execution.”
“Dear Mom and Dad. I am going to be executed by the Baath. I will not see you again.”
10,725 people were killed in this one building alone. All died during torture. Formal execution actually took place in Abu Ghraib.And then there's this, from commenter Martin Kunert who made the documentary "Voices of Iraq"-
"Two years ago, I produced the documentary film VOICES OF IRAQ, where we sent 150 DV cameras across Iraq and allowed Iraqis to film their own lives. The cameras got into the prison you visted and others. I viewed several hours of video and testimony detailing the horrors of Saddam's torture. One woman recalled tearfully how her newborn baby was fed to dogs infront of her eyes. Another video shows floors stained with blood and fat that liquified off torture victoms and poured onto the tiles below them."
Dhimmitude Comes to Wales
The first British newspaper to publish one of the Mohammed cartoons- and a student newspaper at that- has not only been recalled and pulped but the editior and two journalists suspended pending an enquiry.
A spokesperson said the newspaper was recalled after a member of the Student Union noticed the article whilst delivering the paper on Saturday morning. "The edition featured a short piece about the controversy surrounding the Danish satirical cartoons," she said.
"The article was entirely balanced but included a picture of one of the cartoons. We recalled the issues straight away. We do a print run of 10,000 copies and all but 200 have been accounted for."
Cowardice rears its head once more.
Shameful.
A spokesperson said the newspaper was recalled after a member of the Student Union noticed the article whilst delivering the paper on Saturday morning. "The edition featured a short piece about the controversy surrounding the Danish satirical cartoons," she said.
"The article was entirely balanced but included a picture of one of the cartoons. We recalled the issues straight away. We do a print run of 10,000 copies and all but 200 have been accounted for."
Cowardice rears its head once more.
Shameful.
Wednesday, March 01, 2006
UK Prepares For Bird Flu
Thanks to Survival Blog for the link.
ABSENTEEISM of up to 75% is one of the scenarios Abbey National is considering as it plans how to deal with an outbreak of bird flu.
Should the bird bug strike, JSainsbury, the supermarket group, is factoring in greater demand for products people buy when they are sick, such as painkillers and soup. It also anticipates strong sales of bread and “store cupboard” food, such as dried milk.There's much more. When companies being spending their cash on formulating plans to deal with things like this, it's time to take note. Stock up now before it's too late.
ABSENTEEISM of up to 75% is one of the scenarios Abbey National is considering as it plans how to deal with an outbreak of bird flu.
The high-street bank said that having 75% of its staff off sick was the “worst case scenario” — other firms are preparing for rates of between 10% and 50%. Branches could be shut and customers urged to pay bills online.
$60 Billion Wasted
A capital idea whose time really has come- and yes, the title of the post is correct; US taxpayers have given $60 billion dollars of their hard earned cash away to Egypt in return for...nothing.
Foreign aid should be subject to return if the recipient fails to show that it has put that foreign aid to good use. That good use should include, in the first place, encouraging gratitude, and friendship, toward the giver of such aid. In Egypt's case, there has been none.
...why should not the Americans ask the Egyptians to return the $60 billion?
That $60 billion could be applied to solar and wind energy, which together have received additional funding, according to the State of the Union address, of less than $100 million, or 1/60th that amount. $60 billion can do us a lot of good. Sending it to Egypt has done us no good whatsoever.
Foreign aid should be subject to return if the recipient fails to show that it has put that foreign aid to good use. That good use should include, in the first place, encouraging gratitude, and friendship, toward the giver of such aid. In Egypt's case, there has been none.
...why should not the Americans ask the Egyptians to return the $60 billion?
That $60 billion could be applied to solar and wind energy, which together have received additional funding, according to the State of the Union address, of less than $100 million, or 1/60th that amount. $60 billion can do us a lot of good. Sending it to Egypt has done us no good whatsoever.
American taxpayers want that money back.
Which Heinlein Book Should You Have Been A Character In?
You belong in Starship Troopers. Your idea of a good time is bouncing across an alien battlefield blasting the foes of humanity into extinction.
Which Heinlein Book Should You Have Been A Character In?
brought to you by Quizilla
How Times Have Changed
Murdoc notes that it was the anniversary of the Gulf War yesterday- and as I read the post I was reminded of the 1999 film Three Kings. The movie spends a great deal of time pointing out that Americans should have helped topple Saddam Hussein, and helped the poor, beleagured Iraqi people who were being horrendously victimised. How a few years changes things.
Now that American troops have toppled Saddam Hussein and introduced democracy into Iraq it's become a bad thing, as opposed to the good thing it was when the Left were complaining about Bush Sr. Even George Clooney, the lead of Three Kings, whose character so wants to help the Iraqi people is against the war. I can only assume that Clooney agrees with the politics of the film. He even went so far as to accuse the Bush administration of acting like the Sopranos.
Clooney accused the President of cutting a deal with France and Russia to ensure the UN Security Council will not complain when "we go into a war and kill a lot of innocent people".
"Are we going to try and talk to Saddam Hussein...without jumping in and killing people first?"
Perhaps if America and the Coalition had gone on to Baghdad all those years ago things would be remarkably different now. Perhaps Iraq would have quickly settled into democracy without all of the bloodshed that we're seeing now at the hands of Islamist terrorists. Or perhaps the world then would have decried the lack of a clear UN mandate to overthrow Hussein and the USA would have been portrayed by the Left, as it is now, as some sort of bully? Make sure to check out this page of images- and note the end of the war celebrations in New York City. Somehow I can't imagine the same thing happening now.
Now that American troops have toppled Saddam Hussein and introduced democracy into Iraq it's become a bad thing, as opposed to the good thing it was when the Left were complaining about Bush Sr. Even George Clooney, the lead of Three Kings, whose character so wants to help the Iraqi people is against the war. I can only assume that Clooney agrees with the politics of the film. He even went so far as to accuse the Bush administration of acting like the Sopranos.
Clooney accused the President of cutting a deal with France and Russia to ensure the UN Security Council will not complain when "we go into a war and kill a lot of innocent people".
"Are we going to try and talk to Saddam Hussein...without jumping in and killing people first?"
Perhaps if America and the Coalition had gone on to Baghdad all those years ago things would be remarkably different now. Perhaps Iraq would have quickly settled into democracy without all of the bloodshed that we're seeing now at the hands of Islamist terrorists. Or perhaps the world then would have decried the lack of a clear UN mandate to overthrow Hussein and the USA would have been portrayed by the Left, as it is now, as some sort of bully? Make sure to check out this page of images- and note the end of the war celebrations in New York City. Somehow I can't imagine the same thing happening now.
Declaration
MANIFESTO: Together facing the new totalitarianism
After having overcome fascism, Nazism, and Stalinism, the world now faces a new totalitarian global threat: Islamism.
We, writers, journalists, intellectuals, call for resistance to religious totalitarianism and for the promotion of freedom, equal opportunity and secular values for all.
The recent events, which occurred after the publication of drawings of Muhammed in European newspapers, have revealed the necessity of the struggle for these universal values. This struggle will not be won by arms, but in the ideological field. It is not a clash of civilisations nor an antagonism of West and East that we are witnessing, but a global struggle that confronts democrats and theocrats.
Like all totalitarianisms, Islamism is nurtured by fears and frustrations. The hate preachers bet on these feelings in order to form battalions destined to impose a liberticidal and unegalitarian world. But we clearly and firmly state: nothing, not even despair, justifies the choice of obscurantism, totalitarianism and hatred. Islamism is a reactionary ideology which kills equality, freedom and secularism wherever it is present. Its success can only lead to a world of domination: man’s domination of woman, the Islamists’ domination of all the others. To counter this, we must assure universal rights to oppressed or discriminated people.
We reject « cultural relativism », which consists in accepting that men and women of Muslim culture should be deprived of the right to equality, freedom and secular values in the name of respect for cultures and traditions. We refuse to renounce our critical spirit out of fear of being accused of "Islamophobia", an unfortunate concept which confuses criticism of Islam as a religion with stigmatisation of its believers.
We plead for the universality of freedom of expression, so that a critical spirit may be exercised on all continents, against all abuses and all dogmas.
We appeal to democrats and free spirits of all countries that our century should be one of Enlightenment, not of obscurantism.
12 signatures
Ayaan Hirsi Ali
Chahla Chafiq
Caroline Fourest
Bernard-Henri Lévy
Irshad Manji
Mehdi Mozaffari
Maryam Namazie
Taslima Nasreen
Salman Rushdie
Antoine Sfeir
Philippe Val
Ibn Warraq
Add me to that list too. Spread the word, republish on your own blog too.
Tuesday, February 28, 2006
USN's Swimming Spy Plane
I don't usually blog on matters aeronautical but this is just too impressive looking a design to ignore-
Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works, famed for the U-2 and Blackbird spy planes that flew higher than anything else in the world in their day, is trying for a different altitude record: an airplane that starts and ends its mission 150 feet underwater. The Cormorant, a stealthy, jet-powered, autonomous aircraft that could be outfitted with either short-range weapons or surveillance equipment, is designed to launch out of the Trident missile tubes in some of the U.S. Navy's gigantic Cold War-era Ohio-class submarines.
Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works, famed for the U-2 and Blackbird spy planes that flew higher than anything else in the world in their day, is trying for a different altitude record: an airplane that starts and ends its mission 150 feet underwater. The Cormorant, a stealthy, jet-powered, autonomous aircraft that could be outfitted with either short-range weapons or surveillance equipment, is designed to launch out of the Trident missile tubes in some of the U.S. Navy's gigantic Cold War-era Ohio-class submarines.
Coffee War!
The War on Drugs has gone a step too far.
Is the War on Drugs taking aim at that morning cup of java? As crazy as it might sound, some activists would hope so - and they have enlisted the help of various mayors to support their cause.
Dennis R. Yates, the mayor of Chino, California who recently signed the proclamation declaring March 2006 as National Caffeine Awareness Month. This will be the second year for Chino in hosting the event. The proclamation states that "physical and mental health care are immeasurably important to the overall well-being of the citizen.”
Ah, coffee!
There are quite a few mayors outside of noted loony bin California who actually are in support of these crackpot measures. They're obviously in desperate need of a few cups of coffee to improve their brain function.
Is the War on Drugs taking aim at that morning cup of java? As crazy as it might sound, some activists would hope so - and they have enlisted the help of various mayors to support their cause.
Dennis R. Yates, the mayor of Chino, California who recently signed the proclamation declaring March 2006 as National Caffeine Awareness Month. This will be the second year for Chino in hosting the event. The proclamation states that "physical and mental health care are immeasurably important to the overall well-being of the citizen.”
According to Yates, "caffeine consumption can pose a significant hazard to health and longevity," as consumption of the dangerous drug is "linked to heart disease, pancreas and bladder cancer, hypoglycemia, and central nervous system disorders."
Of course they fail to mention the fact that-
The University of Kansas says that "caffeine narrows blood vessels in the brain and stimulates the cerebral cortex, the brain's outer sheath. This helps you think more rapidly and clearly. Elsewhere in the body, blood vessels expand. Coordination improves."Ah, coffee!
There are quite a few mayors outside of noted loony bin California who actually are in support of these crackpot measures. They're obviously in desperate need of a few cups of coffee to improve their brain function.
Blonde Extinction
A theory for the evolution of blonde hair and blue eyes in Europe has been proposed, linking the sudden rise of the blonde gene with a shortage of males in the population.
The study argues that blond hair originated in the region because of food shortages 10,000-11,000 years ago. Until then, humans had the dark brown hair and dark eyes that still dominate in the rest of the world. Almost the only sustenance in northern Europe came from roaming herds of mammoths, reindeer, bison and horses. Finding them required long, arduous hunting trips in which numerous males died, leading to a high ratio of surviving women to men.
The proponent of the theory believes it is supported by research showing that blonde hair is an indicator of higher oestrogen levels in the body.
There is also research showing that the time of the natural blonde may be short lived.
A study by the World Health Organisation found that natural blonds are likely to be extinct within 200 years because there are too few people carrying the blond gene. According to the WHO study, the last natural blond is likely to be born in Finland during 2202.
There's still no explanation for the tendency of some blondes to be, shall we say, a little dense.
Jodie Kidd, 27, the blonde model, disagrees with the theory: “I don’t think being blonde makes you more ripe for sexual activity. It’s much more to do with personality than what you look like. Beauty is much deeper than the colour of your hair.”
The study argues that blond hair originated in the region because of food shortages 10,000-11,000 years ago. Until then, humans had the dark brown hair and dark eyes that still dominate in the rest of the world. Almost the only sustenance in northern Europe came from roaming herds of mammoths, reindeer, bison and horses. Finding them required long, arduous hunting trips in which numerous males died, leading to a high ratio of surviving women to men.
The proponent of the theory believes it is supported by research showing that blonde hair is an indicator of higher oestrogen levels in the body.
There is also research showing that the time of the natural blonde may be short lived.
A study by the World Health Organisation found that natural blonds are likely to be extinct within 200 years because there are too few people carrying the blond gene. According to the WHO study, the last natural blond is likely to be born in Finland during 2202.
There's still no explanation for the tendency of some blondes to be, shall we say, a little dense.
Jodie Kidd, 27, the blonde model, disagrees with the theory: “I don’t think being blonde makes you more ripe for sexual activity. It’s much more to do with personality than what you look like. Beauty is much deeper than the colour of your hair.”
Gathering Shadows
A sobering read from author Douglas Murray, who attended the Pim Fortuyn conference on Islam and Europe recently.
The silencing happens bit by bit. A student paper in Britain that ran the Danish cartoons got pulped. A London magazine withdrew the cartoons from its website after the British police informed the editor they could not protect him, his staff, or his offices from attack. This happened only days before the police provided 500 officers to protect a “peaceful” Muslim protest in Trafalgar Square.
The governments of Europe have been tricked into believing that criticism of a belief is the same thing as criticism of a race. And so it is becoming increasingly difficult and dangerous to criticise a growing and powerful ideology within our midst. It may soon, in addition, be made illegal.
Read it all.
The silencing happens bit by bit. A student paper in Britain that ran the Danish cartoons got pulped. A London magazine withdrew the cartoons from its website after the British police informed the editor they could not protect him, his staff, or his offices from attack. This happened only days before the police provided 500 officers to protect a “peaceful” Muslim protest in Trafalgar Square.
It seems the British police — who regularly provide protection for mosques (as they did after the 7/7 bombs) — were unable to send even one policeman to protect an organ of free speech. At the notorious London protests, Islamists were allowed to incite murder and bloodshed on the streets, but a passer-by objecting to these displays was threatened with detention for making trouble.
Murray is of the opinion that the jihad in Europe is winning. When he puts it like this it's hard to disagree. While the majority of the press has been cowed into silence by fear, only the bloggers have stepped up to print and re-print the Mohammed cartoons, to criticise the encroachment of dhimmitude. You can see the cartoons here.
The governments of Europe have been tricked into believing that criticism of a belief is the same thing as criticism of a race. And so it is becoming increasingly difficult and dangerous to criticise a growing and powerful ideology within our midst. It may soon, in addition, be made illegal.
Read it all.
Al-Qaradawi
I was going to blog about London mayor Ken Livingstone's mate the "moderate" Al-Qaradawi but the chaps over at Infidel Bloggers Alliance have done the job already-
They must not allow anyone to take a single piece of land away from Islam. That is what we are fighting the Jews for. We are fighting them... Our religion commands us... We are fighting in the name of religion, in the name of Islam, which makes this Jihad an individual duty, in which the entire nation takes part, and whoever is killed in this [Jihad] is a martyr. This is why I ruled that martyrdom operations are permitted, because he commits martyrdom for the sake of Allah, and sacrifices his soul for the sake of Allah.
We do not disassociate Islam from the war. On the contrary, disassociating Islam from the war is the reason for our defeat. We are fighting in the name of Islam.
Seems like Ken is committed to supporting murderous terrorists whether they are Irish Nationalists or Islamofascists.
They must not allow anyone to take a single piece of land away from Islam. That is what we are fighting the Jews for. We are fighting them... Our religion commands us... We are fighting in the name of religion, in the name of Islam, which makes this Jihad an individual duty, in which the entire nation takes part, and whoever is killed in this [Jihad] is a martyr. This is why I ruled that martyrdom operations are permitted, because he commits martyrdom for the sake of Allah, and sacrifices his soul for the sake of Allah.
We do not disassociate Islam from the war. On the contrary, disassociating Islam from the war is the reason for our defeat. We are fighting in the name of Islam.
Seems like Ken is committed to supporting murderous terrorists whether they are Irish Nationalists or Islamofascists.
Call For Action
Doesn't this fall under the banner of treason? The group "United For Peace and Justice" is calling not only for the storming of the White House (violent overthrow of the government) but is also requesting the help of foreign powers to do so. Isn't this a crime? Actually asking a foreign power to help destroy the US government?
TAKE THE WHITE HOUSE BY STORM - Stop Genocide, Torture and Occupation
U.N. SOS - We need your help to end the reign of international criminals.
It is our duty and the duty of the United Nations to rescue the people of the world from the U.S. dictators.
There is no meeting with Congress that is going to change what they are doing. We must put the power of the people into action and stay there until they leave!
We will not allow the Slave Holders that Still Prevail in this Country to Rule us any longer. Imprisonment and torture based on race, religion, resources or region is no different than the slavery we sought to abolish years ago. The Administration is Criminal and if they will not step down, we must storm in, show them how many of us do not accept a criminal government. How can we stand by and watch them kill our brothers, sisters, journalists and friends for their dollars?
Silly me, I thought it was the Islamofascist terrorists who were killing journalists and innocent people. And just what friends are they talking about- Al Qaeda?
We are calling on all citizens and governments in every country to stand with us. We are calling on all Member Nations of the U.N.; All Representatives and Justices in the World Court and International Criminal Courts; All Human Rights Advocates; All Soldiers and CIA agents and government officials who have been blackmailed or are in fear of the dictators to join us in ending this reign of corporate terror in our government.
The Political Cooperative will put a new, temporary government in place that is comprised of people from Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and all the organizations that have finally made us aware of the truth of the savage practices and illegal policies of our government in assassinating our own officials as well as people throughout the world who oppose their criminal activity.
We are calling on the military, police, citizens and religious organizations to stand with us and help us to bring democracy back to the United States and by doing so, free the world from the wrath, occupation, theft, torture, blackmail and assassination by the Criminals in the United States Government. What they have done all over the world is much worse than what Saddam Hussein has done, so why are they not in jail too?
I guess this is the sort of "democracy" which you can find in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea or the old German Democratic Republic. No need for those pesky elections which don't have the result these moonbats so desire.
TAKE THE WHITE HOUSE BY STORM - Stop Genocide, Torture and Occupation
U.N. SOS - We need your help to end the reign of international criminals.
It is our duty and the duty of the United Nations to rescue the people of the world from the U.S. dictators.
There is no meeting with Congress that is going to change what they are doing. We must put the power of the people into action and stay there until they leave!
We will not allow the Slave Holders that Still Prevail in this Country to Rule us any longer. Imprisonment and torture based on race, religion, resources or region is no different than the slavery we sought to abolish years ago. The Administration is Criminal and if they will not step down, we must storm in, show them how many of us do not accept a criminal government. How can we stand by and watch them kill our brothers, sisters, journalists and friends for their dollars?
Silly me, I thought it was the Islamofascist terrorists who were killing journalists and innocent people. And just what friends are they talking about- Al Qaeda?
We are calling on all citizens and governments in every country to stand with us. We are calling on all Member Nations of the U.N.; All Representatives and Justices in the World Court and International Criminal Courts; All Human Rights Advocates; All Soldiers and CIA agents and government officials who have been blackmailed or are in fear of the dictators to join us in ending this reign of corporate terror in our government.
The Political Cooperative will put a new, temporary government in place that is comprised of people from Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and all the organizations that have finally made us aware of the truth of the savage practices and illegal policies of our government in assassinating our own officials as well as people throughout the world who oppose their criminal activity.
We are calling on the military, police, citizens and religious organizations to stand with us and help us to bring democracy back to the United States and by doing so, free the world from the wrath, occupation, theft, torture, blackmail and assassination by the Criminals in the United States Government. What they have done all over the world is much worse than what Saddam Hussein has done, so why are they not in jail too?
I guess this is the sort of "democracy" which you can find in the Democratic People's Republic of Korea or the old German Democratic Republic. No need for those pesky elections which don't have the result these moonbats so desire.
PA Aid
Perhaps if the jizya handed out to the PA were halted the destruction of Israel would take a back seat to more urgent priorities- like learning to become more self-sufficient. Instead the handouts continue to bail them out of trouble-
The European Union said Monday that it will give the Palestinian Authority $143 million in emergency aid before the newly elected Hamas leadership forms a Palestinian government.
Since 1993, the United States has given more than $1.5 billion to Palestinians -- some directly to the Palestinian Authority and some through the United Nations and private aid groups.
The European Union said Monday that it will give the Palestinian Authority $143 million in emergency aid before the newly elected Hamas leadership forms a Palestinian government.
Since 1993, the United States has given more than $1.5 billion to Palestinians -- some directly to the Palestinian Authority and some through the United Nations and private aid groups.
For 2006, the United States budgeted $234 million for Palestinian aid. Last year, the European Union gave the Palestinian Authority more than $600 million.
Monday, February 27, 2006
Flight of Fantasy
Another image by Paul Renaud today. This time it's comic book assassin and sometime Daredevil love-interest Elektra.
Climate of Fear
Life under the newly "moderate" Hamas-
Palestinian educator Dr. Maria Khoury geared up for the winter chill with what was at the time a meaningless purchase: a black silk scarf with silver stripes to drape around her neck.
Palestinian educator Dr. Maria Khoury geared up for the winter chill with what was at the time a meaningless purchase: a black silk scarf with silver stripes to drape around her neck.
But now, on her daily excursions from the West Bank's Taiba to nearby Ramallah, the scarf serves as a political symbol of the changing times.
"Since Hamas took over, I cover my head in Ramallah," she says. "I don't feel comfortable."
In the largely cosmopolitan Ramallah, though they comprise some 10 percent of the population, Christians are becoming less and less visible.
The first time that Khoury ran into her local parish priest there with her head covered, he raised his eyebrows and laughed.
"I see more and more women covered up," Khoury says, explaining that for now, it's preferable to play it safe and assimilate on the street, even if she would never choose to cover her head otherwise.
"Years ago I even used to go in short sleeves," she says. "You'd have to put a gun to my head to get me to wear short sleeves now."
With fear of government-supported religious coercion on the rise since Hamas's unexpected win in January's Palestinian elections, Christians across the West Bank and Gaza Strip are keeping a low profile, with eyes wide open.
Things could get much, much worse for the Christian population there.
"If Hamas follows on its founders' path to fight Israel and install strict Islamic religious rule, Palestinian Christians stand to become a legally subjugated minority inside Palestinian society, while suffering further conflict with neighboring Israel."
Recommended Reading
If only we had a few Mark Steyn's in political office.
What, in the end, are all these supposedly unconnected matters from Danish cartoons to the murder of a Dutch filmmaker to gender-segregated swimming sessions in French municipal pools about? Answer: sovereignty. Islam claims universal jurisdiction and always has. The only difference is that they're now acting upon it. The signature act of the new age was the seizure of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran: Even hostile states generally respect the convention that diplomatic missions are the sovereign territory of their respective countries. Tehran then advanced to claiming jurisdiction over the citizens of sovereign states and killing them -- as it did to Salman Rushdie's translators and publishers. Now in the cartoon jihad and other episodes, the restraints of Islamic law are being extended piecemeal to the advanced world, by intimidation and violence but also by the usual cooing promotion of a spurious multicultural "respect" by Bill Clinton, the United Church of Canada, European foreign ministers, etc.
As always, read it all.
Don't believe Steyn's premise? Well, how about hearing it from the horse's mouth-
Sheikh Nawahda called publicly for the renewal of the Islamic Khalifate, which would "unite all the Moslems in the world against the infidels."
What, in the end, are all these supposedly unconnected matters from Danish cartoons to the murder of a Dutch filmmaker to gender-segregated swimming sessions in French municipal pools about? Answer: sovereignty. Islam claims universal jurisdiction and always has. The only difference is that they're now acting upon it. The signature act of the new age was the seizure of the U.S. Embassy in Tehran: Even hostile states generally respect the convention that diplomatic missions are the sovereign territory of their respective countries. Tehran then advanced to claiming jurisdiction over the citizens of sovereign states and killing them -- as it did to Salman Rushdie's translators and publishers. Now in the cartoon jihad and other episodes, the restraints of Islamic law are being extended piecemeal to the advanced world, by intimidation and violence but also by the usual cooing promotion of a spurious multicultural "respect" by Bill Clinton, the United Church of Canada, European foreign ministers, etc.
As always, read it all.
Don't believe Steyn's premise? Well, how about hearing it from the horse's mouth-
Sheikh Nawahda called publicly for the renewal of the Islamic Khalifate, which would "unite all the Moslems in the world against the infidels."
US Continues Jizya to PA
So much for anything changing- the United States will continue to funnel its taxpayers money into the hands of the Palestinian Authority.
State Department envoy David Welch said the U.S. continues “to be devoted to the humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people and we shall remain so.”
Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat said Welch told Palestinian officials that U.S. aid would be redirected, but Welch did not specify how.
State Department envoy David Welch said the U.S. continues “to be devoted to the humanitarian needs of the Palestinian people and we shall remain so.”
Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat said Welch told Palestinian officials that U.S. aid would be redirected, but Welch did not specify how.
Erekat noted that hundreds of millions of dollars in U.S. aid flow directly into infrastructure projects every year, and not into Palestinian government coffers.
The fact that it isn't going directly into the Hamas isn't important- they were elected, afterall, by the will of the people,- and running on a very clear mandate. Why should the US differentiate between the terrorist group themselves and the people who elected them to power?Appeasing Terrorism
Tony Blair sure knows how to fall to his knees and whimper in the face of terrorists-
MPs have voted in favour of two government motions aimed at restoring Westminster allowances worth about £500,000 to Sinn Fein's five MPs.
Prime Minister Tony Blair said the government was implementing the recommendations of the Independent Monitoring Commission's report.
Blair has a particularly odd view of the IMC report. While MP Nigel Dodds said,
"Giving the confirmation of continued illegality, criminality, spying and racketeering, practiced and sanctioned at the highest level, by senior members of Sinn Fein/IRA; will the prime minister note what was in the IMC report and read it instead of spinning it?"
Blair's response was that evidence of this continued terrorist activity- and the IMC's assertion that despite their claims the IRA had retained some of their weapons;
"It is absolutely correct that they (the IMC) draw attention to (IRA) criminal activity and we made it clear that was a significant problem," he said.
"However the report also says of the IMC: 'We are of the firm view that the present PIRA leadership has taken the strategic decision to end the armed campaign and pursue the political course which it has publicly articulated.'
"So if one's being fair and balanced, I think both things have to be put into the equation."
So let me get this straight- Tony Blair is presented with evidence that the IRA is continuing to spy, to engage in criminal activities, and that they have lied about destroying all of their weapons, but he goes on to insist that it's only fair that all of this criminal, terrorist activity is ignored completely and the Sinn Fein/IRA MPs not only get their money- and have it backdated- but they are also discussing giving them an extra £80,000 a year for their "representative business".
This is the same Sinn Fein/IRA which cannot sit in the Houses of Parliament because they refuse to take the oath of office. An oath which I'm appalled to say that a Conservative MP is suggesting is altered for their benefit.
Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness said he did not envisage any circumstances ever in the future in which any Sinn Fein MP would take their seat.
Mr McGuinness said, while it was quite legitimate for Sinn Fein elected representatives to go to Westminster to engage with other parties, they did not recognise the right of the British Parliament to rule over any part of Ireland.
Well, in that case, here's your wages and, hey, have a little something extra on the UK taxpayers- New Labour sure is terrified you'll go back to bombing and murdering us.
Tony Blair- tough on terrorism? Or a pathetic coward?
MPs have voted in favour of two government motions aimed at restoring Westminster allowances worth about £500,000 to Sinn Fein's five MPs.
Prime Minister Tony Blair said the government was implementing the recommendations of the Independent Monitoring Commission's report.
Blair has a particularly odd view of the IMC report. While MP Nigel Dodds said,
"Giving the confirmation of continued illegality, criminality, spying and racketeering, practiced and sanctioned at the highest level, by senior members of Sinn Fein/IRA; will the prime minister note what was in the IMC report and read it instead of spinning it?"
Blair's response was that evidence of this continued terrorist activity- and the IMC's assertion that despite their claims the IRA had retained some of their weapons;
"It is absolutely correct that they (the IMC) draw attention to (IRA) criminal activity and we made it clear that was a significant problem," he said.
"However the report also says of the IMC: 'We are of the firm view that the present PIRA leadership has taken the strategic decision to end the armed campaign and pursue the political course which it has publicly articulated.'
"So if one's being fair and balanced, I think both things have to be put into the equation."
So let me get this straight- Tony Blair is presented with evidence that the IRA is continuing to spy, to engage in criminal activities, and that they have lied about destroying all of their weapons, but he goes on to insist that it's only fair that all of this criminal, terrorist activity is ignored completely and the Sinn Fein/IRA MPs not only get their money- and have it backdated- but they are also discussing giving them an extra £80,000 a year for their "representative business".
This is the same Sinn Fein/IRA which cannot sit in the Houses of Parliament because they refuse to take the oath of office. An oath which I'm appalled to say that a Conservative MP is suggesting is altered for their benefit.
Sinn Fein's Martin McGuinness said he did not envisage any circumstances ever in the future in which any Sinn Fein MP would take their seat.
Mr McGuinness said, while it was quite legitimate for Sinn Fein elected representatives to go to Westminster to engage with other parties, they did not recognise the right of the British Parliament to rule over any part of Ireland.
Well, in that case, here's your wages and, hey, have a little something extra on the UK taxpayers- New Labour sure is terrified you'll go back to bombing and murdering us.
Tony Blair- tough on terrorism? Or a pathetic coward?
Sounds Good To Me
The one game I've always wanted to hunt has been boar- and if I ever get to Africa, warthogs. It looks like I may just get my wish.
Conservationists and wildlife specialists are calling on the Government to designate the ferocious creatures as game, paving the way for boar hunting seasons.
The wild pigs, which are common in mainland Europe, were last seen on these shores in the late 17th century. They were reintroduced in the 1980s for wild boar farming. Until the storms of 1987 none was living wild, but uprooted fencing and escapes from abattoirs led to the boars reasserting themselves, primarily across south England. Sightings have also been reported across east and northern England and Scotland.
A spokesman for Defra said: "Designating them game animals is an option."
Conservationists and wildlife specialists are calling on the Government to designate the ferocious creatures as game, paving the way for boar hunting seasons.
The wild pigs, which are common in mainland Europe, were last seen on these shores in the late 17th century. They were reintroduced in the 1980s for wild boar farming. Until the storms of 1987 none was living wild, but uprooted fencing and escapes from abattoirs led to the boars reasserting themselves, primarily across south England. Sightings have also been reported across east and northern England and Scotland.
A spokesman for Defra said: "Designating them game animals is an option."
Danger! Danger!
It seems as if "extremists" have *gasp* pinned one of the Mohammed cartoons to the notice board of a Manchester housing office. The matter has, of course, been reported to the police!
Greater Manchester Police said they were treating the incident "extremely seriously" and were worried the incident could affect "community cohesion".
A spokeswoman said: "Greater Manchester Police treat any incitement of racial hatred extremely seriously and robustly investigate any such incidents that are reported to us.
"We will not tolerate any acts of racial discrimination and are committed to working with local communities to tackle any issues that may arise."
Tell me again, what race are Muslims?
You can see the cartoons here.
Greater Manchester Police said they were treating the incident "extremely seriously" and were worried the incident could affect "community cohesion".
A spokeswoman said: "Greater Manchester Police treat any incitement of racial hatred extremely seriously and robustly investigate any such incidents that are reported to us.
"We will not tolerate any acts of racial discrimination and are committed to working with local communities to tackle any issues that may arise."
Tell me again, what race are Muslims?
You can see the cartoons here.
Sports Hero
Kevin over at Smallest Minority has posted a link to this video, the amzing story of autistic Jason McElwain. I don't usually recommend videos but you've got to see this. Absolutely amazing. Go watch.
Sunday, February 26, 2006
Not So Great Britain
I think just maybe this is the reason that the Britsh Winter Olympic team has thus far managed to snare a single medal of any kind (silver in the women's skeleton bob) -
British Olympic boss Simon Clegg had said before the 2006 Games that the target was one medal "of any colour".
Got that? The sole aim was to win a single medal of any kind at all.
I am ashamed to be associated with this sort of attitude. No wonder our team's performance has been less than stellar. So why the heck have thousands and thousands of pounds been paid towards the team? What's the point if they're not aiming to win a gold in every discipline they enter? Why bother sending these 40 athletes to the Games if most of them don't have a chance of getting up in the medal table? Is that a good use of limited sports resources or should we just focus in on those athletes who are actually fit enough to compete at this level, instead of every Tom, Dick and Harry who can perform adequately in an obscure event?
The Olympics are not just about taking part.
British Olympic boss Simon Clegg had said before the 2006 Games that the target was one medal "of any colour".
Got that? The sole aim was to win a single medal of any kind at all.
I am ashamed to be associated with this sort of attitude. No wonder our team's performance has been less than stellar. So why the heck have thousands and thousands of pounds been paid towards the team? What's the point if they're not aiming to win a gold in every discipline they enter? Why bother sending these 40 athletes to the Games if most of them don't have a chance of getting up in the medal table? Is that a good use of limited sports resources or should we just focus in on those athletes who are actually fit enough to compete at this level, instead of every Tom, Dick and Harry who can perform adequately in an obscure event?
The Olympics are not just about taking part.
Take Back the Truth
Everywhere I turn I seem to hear about "far right Nazis" or "right wing nazi groups". It's a common term but it is completely wrong- the Nazis were the National Socialist German Workers Party. The Nazis were firmly on the LEFT of the political spectrum, not the right- though I'm sure than not many people are aware of that today because of the constant "right wing" repetition. Just take a look (but be prepared for a shower afterwards) at the website of the American Nazi Party (surely dubbed a Far Right organisation by the media, etc)-
"The American Nazi Party is a Political-Educational Association, dedicated to the 14 WORDS. We are committed to bringing American National Socialism, first created and embodied by our late Commander George Lincoln Rockwell, out of the past Phase One activities which at the time served their purpose well, and into the 21st Century."
I think it's time that we began to correct this myth- it's a slander that can be used to paint the entire conservative position as somehow racist or tyrannical. The American Nazi Party is, I'm sure, constantly referred to as a radical/far right wing group- but their politics are socialist in nature-
"the two main tenants of National Socialism embodies the Struggle for Aryan Racial survival, and Social Justice for White Working Class people throughout our land."
Nazis are not right wing extremists, they are Left Wing. But how many times have you ever heard that? How many times have you heard "right wing racist"? Now, compare that to how many times you've heard "left wing racist". The latter is the more accurate of the two- and is plainly on show as the abhorrent American Nazi Party website- but it's not a term that's ever used. Instead that position is somehow referred to as right wing- as if the conservative side of the aisle is inherently racist, as if that intolerance trumps even the obviously socialist language of their manifesto.
What's happened? How did plainly obvious facts become so twisted that Nazis are almost universally referred to as right wing, when their politics are anything but?
It's time to take back the truth- my challenge to everyone who reads this blog is to take the time to correct the "right wing nazi" myth wherever you hear it.
"The American Nazi Party is a Political-Educational Association, dedicated to the 14 WORDS. We are committed to bringing American National Socialism, first created and embodied by our late Commander George Lincoln Rockwell, out of the past Phase One activities which at the time served their purpose well, and into the 21st Century."
I think it's time that we began to correct this myth- it's a slander that can be used to paint the entire conservative position as somehow racist or tyrannical. The American Nazi Party is, I'm sure, constantly referred to as a radical/far right wing group- but their politics are socialist in nature-
"the two main tenants of National Socialism embodies the Struggle for Aryan Racial survival, and Social Justice for White Working Class people throughout our land."
Nazis are not right wing extremists, they are Left Wing. But how many times have you ever heard that? How many times have you heard "right wing racist"? Now, compare that to how many times you've heard "left wing racist". The latter is the more accurate of the two- and is plainly on show as the abhorrent American Nazi Party website- but it's not a term that's ever used. Instead that position is somehow referred to as right wing- as if the conservative side of the aisle is inherently racist, as if that intolerance trumps even the obviously socialist language of their manifesto.
What's happened? How did plainly obvious facts become so twisted that Nazis are almost universally referred to as right wing, when their politics are anything but?
It's time to take back the truth- my challenge to everyone who reads this blog is to take the time to correct the "right wing nazi" myth wherever you hear it.
Arafat's Minions
There was a big fuss a while back when an Italian football player gave a fascist salute to the fans after scoring a goal. The Lazio player, Paulo Di Canio, was fined £7,000. There was a lot of media attention focused on it here in the UK. Personally, I know virtually nothing of the man, the team or even the game- football is very low on my list of priorities. I do remember seeing some video clips on the news of Di Canio's "salutes". Most of the time it just looked to me like he was throwing his arm up in jubilation as he ran along by his fans, rather than a specific attempt to do a salute- apparently he has a substantial fan base which is "right wing" (nevermind that the Nazis were a socialist party). The photo in this article is pretty damning though.
Somehow, I don't think the British, or European for that matter, media will focus the same attention on this case of Nazi salutes- members of a PLO terror squad. Somehow I don't think any of them have just scored a goal. And this is not the first time either; the Nazi-collaborator the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, is a long time "hero" of the PLO- and Abbas himself was given the Nazi salute in a January 2005 election rally.
Of course, it's more newsworthy that a footballer makes it onto the evening news for doing this than a Middle Eastern terror group.
Somehow, I don't think the British, or European for that matter, media will focus the same attention on this case of Nazi salutes- members of a PLO terror squad. Somehow I don't think any of them have just scored a goal. And this is not the first time either; the Nazi-collaborator the Grand Mufti of Jerusalem, is a long time "hero" of the PLO- and Abbas himself was given the Nazi salute in a January 2005 election rally.
Of course, it's more newsworthy that a footballer makes it onto the evening news for doing this than a Middle Eastern terror group.
Tom and Jerry Are Evil
I've heard some barmy theories but this guy is just a complete bat-sh*t crazy moonbat of the highest order. His thesis? Tom and Jerry was created by the Jewish Walt Disney Corporation to change the perception of Jews.
"Watch Schindler's List. Every Jew was forced to wear a yellow star on his clothing. The Jews were degraded and termed "dirty mice." Tom and Jerry was made in order to change the Europeans' perception of mice. One of terms used was "dirty mice.""
Someone call the men in white coats.
Hat tip LGF.
"Watch Schindler's List. Every Jew was forced to wear a yellow star on his clothing. The Jews were degraded and termed "dirty mice." Tom and Jerry was made in order to change the Europeans' perception of mice. One of terms used was "dirty mice.""
Someone call the men in white coats.
Hat tip LGF.
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Rethinking the Timeline
Thanks to Clayton Cramer for this story- scientists have discovered the fossil of a beaver-like mammal dating from 164 million years ago. The little creature weighed only 18 ounces but it had a paddle-like tail, webbed feet and fur. It also completely overturns the accepted concepts of mammalian development- proving that mammals had conquered the water 100 million years earlier than previously thought.
Just goes to show that the views of evolution are still evolving.
Just goes to show that the views of evolution are still evolving.
Her Again
Utterly appalling.
"Sheehan is trying to get Germans to not support the war by demonstrating where our wounded can see her. The goal is to get Germany to deny the use of American bases in support of the war...por ejemplo, she wants Germany to deny our use of a hospital to care for our wounded coming back from Iraq."
"Sheehan is trying to get Germans to not support the war by demonstrating where our wounded can see her. The goal is to get Germany to deny the use of American bases in support of the war...por ejemplo, she wants Germany to deny our use of a hospital to care for our wounded coming back from Iraq."
Recommended Read
A must read for the weekend-
"The right of the Jews of Khaibar to stay on their former lands was a temporary concession, withdrawn in 640 by Umar, in obedience to Muhammad’s dying wish: ‘Two religions shall not remain together in the peninsula of the Arabs’. In this same year the whole of Arabia was cleansed of non-Muslims."
Hat tip to Infidel Bloggers Alliance.
"The right of the Jews of Khaibar to stay on their former lands was a temporary concession, withdrawn in 640 by Umar, in obedience to Muhammad’s dying wish: ‘Two religions shall not remain together in the peninsula of the Arabs’. In this same year the whole of Arabia was cleansed of non-Muslims."
Hat tip to Infidel Bloggers Alliance.
Act of War?
Perhaps Hamas haven't yet realised that they have no one to hide behind any more- if they continue attacking Israel, that nation has every right to go to war to defend itself.
"Israeli soldiers shot dead two Palestinian militants planting bombs along the Israeli border on Friday, drawing vows of revenge from the militant Islamist group Hamas as it prepared to form a Palestinian government."
"Israeli soldiers shot dead two Palestinian militants planting bombs along the Israeli border on Friday, drawing vows of revenge from the militant Islamist group Hamas as it prepared to form a Palestinian government."
Bureau of Clever Ideas
This is just genius- don't dare try to defend yourself, you don't want to lose that neutral status!
“A journalist with a gun says ‘some people in the situation I’m covering are my enemies and I am prepared to kill them if necessary’. That is not the position of a neutral civilian.”
“A journalist with a gun says ‘some people in the situation I’m covering are my enemies and I am prepared to kill them if necessary’. That is not the position of a neutral civilian.”
Straight Talking
Who'd have thought that I'd find myself in agreement with Julie Burchill, of all people?
"For fear of appearing racist, many Britons suspend their normal judgments when dealing with the behavior of ethnic minorities. Not only is this totally racist in itself - pre-supposing as it does that ethnics are like children, who know not what they do and must have special dispensation to behave badly - but it also ignores the fact that the other ethnic minorities, be they Jews, Chinese or Hindus, have somehow managed to both keep their culture and fit into their chosen adopted country, without feeling the need to parade around the streets like big overgrown babies, stamping their feet and ordering fatwas when things displease them."
And then there's this gem of truth-
"For the past five years I have wished not to be vilified as a racist, a bigot and an Islamophobe every time I had the nerve to say that certain Muslims living in Britain hate Westerners, not because of what we do - the war in Iraq, support for Israel - but because of what we are: free."
"For fear of appearing racist, many Britons suspend their normal judgments when dealing with the behavior of ethnic minorities. Not only is this totally racist in itself - pre-supposing as it does that ethnics are like children, who know not what they do and must have special dispensation to behave badly - but it also ignores the fact that the other ethnic minorities, be they Jews, Chinese or Hindus, have somehow managed to both keep their culture and fit into their chosen adopted country, without feeling the need to parade around the streets like big overgrown babies, stamping their feet and ordering fatwas when things displease them."
And then there's this gem of truth-
"For the past five years I have wished not to be vilified as a racist, a bigot and an Islamophobe every time I had the nerve to say that certain Muslims living in Britain hate Westerners, not because of what we do - the war in Iraq, support for Israel - but because of what we are: free."
Friday, February 24, 2006
Just Desserts
The US has banned a Bolivian politician who chanted "death to Yankees" from entering the United States, a policy I'm all in favour of. She seems surprised by the move and has dubbed it "an offense against Bolivian women". Right, nothing to do with her own actions at all then.
A Glimpse of Things To Come?
Germany already has a law which forbids "insulting religious belief".
And a Slate columnist makes the case for polygamy- ahead of the HBO drama Big Love. Of course, he claims it's better for the women. Looks like Clayton Cramer was right.
And a Slate columnist makes the case for polygamy- ahead of the HBO drama Big Love. Of course, he claims it's better for the women. Looks like Clayton Cramer was right.
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Arthritis Supplements
Seems like a study has found that those suffering from arthritis in the knees who take the supplements glucosamine and chondrotin are not doing themselves much good- while the supplements are not harmful, they offer as much benefit as a placebo unless the pain is acute. In those cases the supplements do seem to work. A bit of a mixed signal?
I don't have any problems with my knees (fingers crossed it stays that way) but I do have arthritis in my back- and I do take the aforementioned supplements. In addition to them I also take Devils Claw, Turmeric, Zinc and Vitamins A, C, E and Selenium. Since I began I have noticed a definite improvement in my back pain- I still get pretty sore but I've been able to reduce the amount of pain killers and muscle relaxants I need to take each day. I have tried one or two of these supplements before but they didn't seem to help- in combination though, I doing better. I'm fairly sure that the Turmeric is a major reason for this- could be on its own it would do jst about the same job. As it's working though, i'm not about to start messing with the system. If you have any kind of joint problems I'd heartily recommend at least taking Turmeric supplements.
I don't have any problems with my knees (fingers crossed it stays that way) but I do have arthritis in my back- and I do take the aforementioned supplements. In addition to them I also take Devils Claw, Turmeric, Zinc and Vitamins A, C, E and Selenium. Since I began I have noticed a definite improvement in my back pain- I still get pretty sore but I've been able to reduce the amount of pain killers and muscle relaxants I need to take each day. I have tried one or two of these supplements before but they didn't seem to help- in combination though, I doing better. I'm fairly sure that the Turmeric is a major reason for this- could be on its own it would do jst about the same job. As it's working though, i'm not about to start messing with the system. If you have any kind of joint problems I'd heartily recommend at least taking Turmeric supplements.
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
About Time
Colt has introduced a gas-piston AR at the SHOT Show. Hopefully this is the start of a new era in the M4/AR's life- perhaps the gas piston set-up will become the dominant option soon? And the better news is that they are going to offer this to civilians too. This could be a big kick in the pants to HK.
Jack Straw
Just heard a spot of news on the radio and Jack Straw, our Foreign Secretary, was condemning the bombing of the Al-Askari shrine in Iraq.
Strange that, because I haven't heard him utter a single word of condemnation about the 30-odd Christian churches burned down in Nigeria. Not to mention the Christians who have been killed too.
Strange that, because I haven't heard him utter a single word of condemnation about the 30-odd Christian churches burned down in Nigeria. Not to mention the Christians who have been killed too.
Down the Plughole
It's a queston I keep asking, just why does the US government continue to give its taxpayer's hard earned cash ($2 billion per year) to countries such as Egypt? Exactly what benefit does it bestow?
Egypt rebuffed U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice’s appeal on Tuesday for Arab states to deny direct aid to Hamas when it forms a government.
Egypt rebuffed U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice’s appeal on Tuesday for Arab states to deny direct aid to Hamas when it forms a government.
Art Banned in American School
What a simply wonderful idea. Because some Muslims consider representational art verboten a school in St. Paul is revamping its art curriculum.
"parents were still upset that their children were drawing figures... and some pulled their children out of art class altogether....
Update- I've just been thinking some more about this. Consider the possibility that a school adjusted its curriculum to suit Christian beliefs- stopped teaching something or radically altered how they taught it. Wouldn't the ACLU be all over the school clamouring for a separation of church and state or some such? Where are they now?
"parents were still upset that their children were drawing figures... and some pulled their children out of art class altogether....
Out the window right away went masks, puppets and that classic of elementary school art class, the self-portrait, said Sara Langworthy, an artist with ArtStart. Revamping the curriculum “definitely requires stepping outside of the normal instincts that you fall back on,” she said.
In their place came nature scenes and geometric forms and patterns, said Carol Sirrine, ArtStart’s executive director."Update- I've just been thinking some more about this. Consider the possibility that a school adjusted its curriculum to suit Christian beliefs- stopped teaching something or radically altered how they taught it. Wouldn't the ACLU be all over the school clamouring for a separation of church and state or some such? Where are they now?
Sunday, February 19, 2006
Flight of Fantasy
A pin-up of Budd Root's Cavewoman by Paul Renaud. there are further examples of Renaud's fine work at his website. If you're interested in the Cavewoman comics, details can be found here.
"Moderate" Hamas
Via Captain's Quarters-
In a speech at the opening of parliament, Mr Abbas said the new government must recognise past peace deals with Israel and commit itself to pursuing statehood through talks, but he stopped short of setting conditions for forming a cabinet.
In a speech at the opening of parliament, Mr Abbas said the new government must recognise past peace deals with Israel and commit itself to pursuing statehood through talks, but he stopped short of setting conditions for forming a cabinet.
He said: "The presidency and the government will continue to respect our commitment to the negotiations as a strategic, pragmatic political choice.["] ...
Mr Abbas's words won applause from Fatah lawmakers but not from Hamas members.
"We were elected on a different political agenda," said Mr Haniyeh as sessions in the West Bank and Gaza Strip, joined by video link, broke off for Muslim prayers.
For a long time Hamas has been all too clear about its goals, and somehow some in the West have failed to take them at their word, assuming somehow that Hamas will magically transform into an Israel-loving organisation once in power. I wonder if this will change anything?Christians Targeted in Nigeria
Sixteen people have been killed and eleven Christian churches burned down in the north of Nigeria in more displays of "cartoon rage". Most of those killed were part of the minority Christian population- in other words, those entirely unconnected in any way, shape or form with the Danish newspaper which published the cartoons.
Crowds of protesters carried machetes, sticks and iron rods through the city centre, the Associated Press news agency reported.
One group threw a tyre around one man, poured gas on him and set him ablaze, it said.
"They went on the rampage, burning shops and churches of the Christians. The protesters killed the others. Some were even killed in the churches."
Where's the international outrage about this desecration of Christian churches by murder? Where are the politicians around the world condemning this the way they did allegations of a book being flushed down a toilet? Double standards, anyone?
You can see the cartoons here.
Crowds of protesters carried machetes, sticks and iron rods through the city centre, the Associated Press news agency reported.
One group threw a tyre around one man, poured gas on him and set him ablaze, it said.
"They went on the rampage, burning shops and churches of the Christians. The protesters killed the others. Some were even killed in the churches."
Where's the international outrage about this desecration of Christian churches by murder? Where are the politicians around the world condemning this the way they did allegations of a book being flushed down a toilet? Double standards, anyone?
You can see the cartoons here.
Iran vs Britain
First it was Iran demanding that British troops in Basra, Iraq be withdrawn (perhaps because of their proximity to the border with Iran) and now it's this-
“With more than 1,000 trained martyrdom-seekers, we are ready to attack the American and British sensitive points if they attack Iran’s nuclear facilities,” said Mohammad Ali Samadi, spokesman of Esteshadion (Martyrdom Seekers). "
Time for the British government to stop pussyfooting around Iran.
“With more than 1,000 trained martyrdom-seekers, we are ready to attack the American and British sensitive points if they attack Iran’s nuclear facilities,” said Mohammad Ali Samadi, spokesman of Esteshadion (Martyrdom Seekers). "
Time for the British government to stop pussyfooting around Iran.
Sharia Britain?
It seems like a recent poll has discovered that 40% of Britain's Muslim population wish to have Sharia law introduced into parts of the country. And a fifth have "sympathy" for the 7/7 bomber's feelings and motives.
At a time when Dr. Sookhdeo points out the tactic of non-integration, this is of great concern as the poll found this widespread support for Sharia in areas which are "predominantly Muslim".
The poll found that 91% of respondents still felt loyal to Britain (can we have the remaining 9%- a rather high figure- kicked out of the country please?) but one has to ask- are they loyal to Britain and its traditions of freedom and democracy, or do they want to see it changed into the Islamic Republic of Britain?
At a time when Dr. Sookhdeo points out the tactic of non-integration, this is of great concern as the poll found this widespread support for Sharia in areas which are "predominantly Muslim".
The poll found that 91% of respondents still felt loyal to Britain (can we have the remaining 9%- a rather high figure- kicked out of the country please?) but one has to ask- are they loyal to Britain and its traditions of freedom and democracy, or do they want to see it changed into the Islamic Republic of Britain?
Where Are You?
One thing that I cannot understand is why it is primarily conservatives who are most alarmed about the clash of cultures between the West and Islam. Where are the liberals so howl so loudly the moment they perceive any of their own freedoms are under threat? Why are they so concerned with the imaginary threat of Christian theocracy when a very real and dangerous Islamic theocracy is on the march? Why will liberals not make a stand beside those who wish to see freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of women, freedom of, and from, religion?
A journalist covering cartoon protests in Turkey was stoned because she, was being "sexually provocative". How? Well, the woman reporter had the gall to appear in public without wearing a headscarf.
Approximately 30 people then started throwing stones at Cetinkaya, seated with her legs dangling from the back of the vehicle and taking notes. They claimed that her clothes and way of sitting was inappropriate while the Koran was being read, and shouted words of abuse at her.
Where is the outrage from the liberals, from the Left? Where are the feminists now?
A journalist covering cartoon protests in Turkey was stoned because she, was being "sexually provocative". How? Well, the woman reporter had the gall to appear in public without wearing a headscarf.
Approximately 30 people then started throwing stones at Cetinkaya, seated with her legs dangling from the back of the vehicle and taking notes. They claimed that her clothes and way of sitting was inappropriate while the Koran was being read, and shouted words of abuse at her.
Where is the outrage from the liberals, from the Left? Where are the feminists now?
Islam in Britain
From the Telegraph, Dr Sookhdeo, director of the Institute for the Study of Islam and Christianity in Britain has spent the past few weeks studying the attitudes of Muslim clerics in Britain. His findings are worrying to say the least-
"They think they have won the debate. They believe that the British Government has capitulated to them, because it feared the consequences if it did not...It's confirmation of what they believe to be a familiar pattern: if spokesmen for British Muslims threaten what they call 'adverse consequences' - violence to the rest of us - then the British Government will cave in. I think it is a very dangerous precedent."
This is one of the most important articles I've read in quite some time. I highly recommend it to you all.
"For example, one of the fundamental notions of a secular society is the moral importance of freedom, of individual choice. But in Islam, choice is not allowable: there cannot be free choice about whether to choose or reject any of the fundamental aspects of the religion, because they are all divinely ordained. God has laid down the law, and man must obey.
"They think they have won the debate. They believe that the British Government has capitulated to them, because it feared the consequences if it did not...It's confirmation of what they believe to be a familiar pattern: if spokesmen for British Muslims threaten what they call 'adverse consequences' - violence to the rest of us - then the British Government will cave in. I think it is a very dangerous precedent."
This is one of the most important articles I've read in quite some time. I highly recommend it to you all.
"For example, one of the fundamental notions of a secular society is the moral importance of freedom, of individual choice. But in Islam, choice is not allowable: there cannot be free choice about whether to choose or reject any of the fundamental aspects of the religion, because they are all divinely ordained. God has laid down the law, and man must obey.
'Islamic clerics do not believe in a society in which Islam is one religion among others in a society ruled by basically non-religious laws. They believe it must be the dominant religion - and it is their aim to achieve this."
The Telegraph article linked above is no longer online- here's an alternative source for the piece.
Saturday, February 18, 2006
Police State Houston
The Houston Police Chief, Harold Hurrt, wants to install surveillance cameras in the city to offset a shortage of police officers and concurrent spike in crime rates. Never mind the fact that cameras are only useful after a crime has been committed. He wants the cameras to be situated on streets, around apartment complexes, shopping malls and even, get this, in private homes.
Hurrt says of this latter development, "If you're not doing anything wrong, why should you worry about it?"
Of course, he'll set an example and have one installed on his own home, and the homes of the PD's officers too? Surely they have nothing to hide?
Hurrt says of this latter development, "If you're not doing anything wrong, why should you worry about it?"
Of course, he'll set an example and have one installed on his own home, and the homes of the PD's officers too? Surely they have nothing to hide?
Cartoon Rage
Robert Spencer of Jihad Watch captures the essence of the Muslim offence at the Mohammed cartoons-
"If they really were, they would have been protesting just as violently in Egypt when the cartoons were printed there in October as they have been elsewhere more recently. If they really were, they would be calling for the executions of the Danish Muslims who added into a dossier circulated in the Muslim world three cartoons much more inflammatory than the 12 that were actually printed in the Danish newspaper. No, cartoon rage isn't really about offensive cartoons at all. It is an attempt to cow Western nations into adopting Islamic blasphemy laws, forbidding non-Muslims to insult the Prophet -- and making them take the first large step toward accepting other Sharia provisions, just as the jihadists are also fighting in their way to compel them to do."
"If they really were, they would have been protesting just as violently in Egypt when the cartoons were printed there in October as they have been elsewhere more recently. If they really were, they would be calling for the executions of the Danish Muslims who added into a dossier circulated in the Muslim world three cartoons much more inflammatory than the 12 that were actually printed in the Danish newspaper. No, cartoon rage isn't really about offensive cartoons at all. It is an attempt to cow Western nations into adopting Islamic blasphemy laws, forbidding non-Muslims to insult the Prophet -- and making them take the first large step toward accepting other Sharia provisions, just as the jihadists are also fighting in their way to compel them to do."
A Step in the Right Direction
It's about time too-
"The United States has asked the Palestinian Authority to return $50 million in U.S. aid because Washington does not want a Hamas-led government to have the funds, the State Department said on Friday."
It's a shame this wasn't done a long time ago-
"Over the past decade, the United States has given about $1.5 billion in aid to the Palestinians, mostly through aid groups."
Wouldn't that money have been better spent in the US? Was there really a need to help prop up the PA all this time while terror attacks continued against Israel?
"The United States has asked the Palestinian Authority to return $50 million in U.S. aid because Washington does not want a Hamas-led government to have the funds, the State Department said on Friday."
It's a shame this wasn't done a long time ago-
"Over the past decade, the United States has given about $1.5 billion in aid to the Palestinians, mostly through aid groups."
Wouldn't that money have been better spent in the US? Was there really a need to help prop up the PA all this time while terror attacks continued against Israel?
Giant Penguins
The fossil remains of what is believed to be the biggest penguin ever to exist have been discovered in New Zealand. Living 40 million years ago, the creature was about 5 feet tall and weighed 120 pounds.
Mother of the Year?
A woman fought, unarmed, with a polar bear to protect her children- and even managed to come away unharmed.
"Tiny Lydia Angyiou showed incredible bravery and strength last week when she tackled a polar bear who threatened her son and two friends as they played hockey in front of Ivujivik’s youth centre.
"Tiny Lydia Angyiou showed incredible bravery and strength last week when she tackled a polar bear who threatened her son and two friends as they played hockey in front of Ivujivik’s youth centre.
Angyiou, 41, who lives not far from the youth centre, was outside with her two younger children when she saw the polar bear eying the boys. She immediately ran towards animal: all she could think about was protecting her seven-year old son."
Police State Louisiana
This is unbelievable- and if you have a blog I'd recommend putting a post of your own up over this story.
From Liberty Zone-
"Mark Edward Marchiafava did not break the law in Gonzales, La. on January 28, 2006. But nonetheless, he was handcuffed, arrested, and his firearm, which he was legally carrying in the open on his side that day, was confiscated and not returned."
That's bad but the attitude of the police is staggering-
Another "officer," Billiot, transported me across the Mississippi river to the jail in Donaldsonville. On the ride over, I tried to explain to HIM what the law states and the rights of any citizen.
He said, and I quote, "I don't care what the laws or the Supreme Court say. WE are NOT going to have people running around, wearing guns, with women and children everywhere."
I guess we'll be hearing from the ACLU over this one, eh?
From Liberty Zone-
"Mark Edward Marchiafava did not break the law in Gonzales, La. on January 28, 2006. But nonetheless, he was handcuffed, arrested, and his firearm, which he was legally carrying in the open on his side that day, was confiscated and not returned."
That's bad but the attitude of the police is staggering-
Another "officer," Billiot, transported me across the Mississippi river to the jail in Donaldsonville. On the ride over, I tried to explain to HIM what the law states and the rights of any citizen.
He said, and I quote, "I don't care what the laws or the Supreme Court say. WE are NOT going to have people running around, wearing guns, with women and children everywhere."
I guess we'll be hearing from the ACLU over this one, eh?
Friday, February 17, 2006
Fatwa Okays Nukes
So, if Iran is only developing "peaceful nuclear energy" just why do a bunch of clerics have to explicitly state that the use of nuclear weapons is in accordance with Sharia?
"The spiritual leaders of the ultra-conservatives [in Iran] have accepted the use of nuclear weapons as lawful in the eyes of the shari'a. Mohsen Gharavian, a disciple of [Ayatollah] Mesbah Yazdi [who is Iranian President Ahmadinejad's spiritual mentor], has spoken for the first time of using nuclear weapons as a counter-measure. He stated that 'in terms of the shari'a, it all depends on the goal.' "
I wonder if perhaps there could be a link between this story and this one-
"Iran has tested a missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead, with a 2,000 kilometer range."
"The spiritual leaders of the ultra-conservatives [in Iran] have accepted the use of nuclear weapons as lawful in the eyes of the shari'a. Mohsen Gharavian, a disciple of [Ayatollah] Mesbah Yazdi [who is Iranian President Ahmadinejad's spiritual mentor], has spoken for the first time of using nuclear weapons as a counter-measure. He stated that 'in terms of the shari'a, it all depends on the goal.' "
I wonder if perhaps there could be a link between this story and this one-
"Iran has tested a missile capable of carrying a nuclear warhead, with a 2,000 kilometer range."
Thursday, February 16, 2006
Good Question
Michelle Malkin sums it up,
Why the Abu Ghraib photos, but not the Mohammed Cartoons?
Seems like the press is scared of offending Muslims but they have no problem putting American servicemen and women in very real danger of being subject to increased attacks.
Shame on them.
Why the Abu Ghraib photos, but not the Mohammed Cartoons?
Seems like the press is scared of offending Muslims but they have no problem putting American servicemen and women in very real danger of being subject to increased attacks.
Shame on them.
Monday, February 13, 2006
Moderate Islam in Britain
Perhaps this explains it all- the tiny minority of extremists are those who carry out attacks, the moderates are those who simply support such actions?
Speaking about the Muslim Association of Britain, Labour MP Louise Ellman had this to say,
“They are an extremely dangerous organisation. Leading members of MAB have indicated their links with Hamas and their support for suicide bombings abroad. It is not tenable for a group to support suicide bombings in another country while expecting to be seen as moderate in this country.”
And Azzam al-Tamimi, billed as one of the MAB's leading political thinkers says of committing a suicide attack in Israel, “Sacrificing myself for Palestine is a noble cause. It is the straight way to pleasing God and I would do it if I had the opportunity.”
Speaking about the Muslim Association of Britain, Labour MP Louise Ellman had this to say,
“They are an extremely dangerous organisation. Leading members of MAB have indicated their links with Hamas and their support for suicide bombings abroad. It is not tenable for a group to support suicide bombings in another country while expecting to be seen as moderate in this country.”
And Azzam al-Tamimi, billed as one of the MAB's leading political thinkers says of committing a suicide attack in Israel, “Sacrificing myself for Palestine is a noble cause. It is the straight way to pleasing God and I would do it if I had the opportunity.”
ACE is Back!
I've been checking in on Airborne Combat Engineer practically every day since he vanished from the blogosphere, hoping for some sign that he was around. And now he's back.
If you're not familiar with his site, take the time to check out the archive- some excellent material there.
If you're not familiar with his site, take the time to check out the archive- some excellent material there.
Friday, February 10, 2006
Freedom
It seems that newspapers and even websites are being shut down, censored or forced to apologise for publishing the Danish Mohammed cartoons. Even a university newspaper which published them has been withdrawn. Freedom of speech is under fire. I will not stand for it- a religion is not above being satirised or criticised. And despite a good look I can find no place in the Koran where is expressly forbids images of Mohammed to be created- and even if it did, why should that affect me? I am not a Muslim, I am not bound by their precepts, just as atheisits are not bound by the beliefs of Christians or whatever faith.
Do we expect non-Christians to NOT engage in pre-marital sex? Do we expect non-Muslims to not drink alcohol? Do we expect non-Buddhists to not take any life at all? Should we allow the teachings of a religion- any religion- to dictate what freedoms we have?
The answer is, and must always be, NO.
Do we expect non-Christians to NOT engage in pre-marital sex? Do we expect non-Muslims to not drink alcohol? Do we expect non-Buddhists to not take any life at all? Should we allow the teachings of a religion- any religion- to dictate what freedoms we have?
The answer is, and must always be, NO.
Cops and Politicians Oppose Jail Time
It seems that a number of politicians and senior police officers have decided that the laws punishing those for owning fully automatic weapons without the necessary permits are entirely unreasonable.
They have put their names to a letter saying just that in defence of three police officers who were caught with the illegal fully-automatic weapons in their homes and who are facing ten years in prison. The letter writers are opposed to this stiff sentencing-
"The letter was signed by 10 current police chiefs, two county sheriffs, the two senators and a retired police chief..."We do not see how the citizens are made safer by placing these troopers in jail," the letter states. "Discipline may absolutely be in order; however, to federally prosecute them and with a possible jail term is not the answer."
I'm presuming that these people- you can find just who they are at the link- would ALL provide similar support for non-law enforcement citizens charged with the same crime. Surely they don't hold police officers- who are employed to uphold the law- in different regard to non-police American citizens? Surely there can't be a double standard involved here? How can they discriminate between a cop and a citizen breaking the law? If the punishment is considered too harsh for a police officer, then surely it's too harsh for the rest of the American populace? Right?
Hat tip to War on Guns- please do check out that blog. This double standard for American police officers is far from a rare occurence.
They have put their names to a letter saying just that in defence of three police officers who were caught with the illegal fully-automatic weapons in their homes and who are facing ten years in prison. The letter writers are opposed to this stiff sentencing-
"The letter was signed by 10 current police chiefs, two county sheriffs, the two senators and a retired police chief..."We do not see how the citizens are made safer by placing these troopers in jail," the letter states. "Discipline may absolutely be in order; however, to federally prosecute them and with a possible jail term is not the answer."
I'm presuming that these people- you can find just who they are at the link- would ALL provide similar support for non-law enforcement citizens charged with the same crime. Surely they don't hold police officers- who are employed to uphold the law- in different regard to non-police American citizens? Surely there can't be a double standard involved here? How can they discriminate between a cop and a citizen breaking the law? If the punishment is considered too harsh for a police officer, then surely it's too harsh for the rest of the American populace? Right?
Hat tip to War on Guns- please do check out that blog. This double standard for American police officers is far from a rare occurence.
Thursday, February 09, 2006
The Telegraph
I was browsing through the Dailt Telegraph's website when I happened upon their "comprehensive guide to Islam". This is the letter I've sent them regarding it-
I have just read the article “What is Islam?”
I have just read the article “What is Islam?”
4:34 Men are in charge of women, because Allah hath made the one of them to excel the other, and because they spend of their property (for the support of women). So good women are the obedient, guarding in secret that which Allah hath guarded. As for those from whom ye fear rebellion, admonish them and banish them to beds apart, and scourge them. Then if they obey you, seek not a way against them. Lo! Allah is ever High, Exalted, Great.
24:31 And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and be modest, and to display of their adornment only that which is apparent, and to draw their veils over their bosoms, and not to reveal their adornment save to their own husbands or fathers or husbands' fathers, or their sons or their husbands' sons, or their brothers or their brothers' sons or sisters' sons, or their women, or their slaves, or male attendants who lack vigour, or children who know naught of women's nakedness. And let them not stamp their feet so as to reveal what they hide of their adornment. And turn unto Allah together, O believers, in order that ye may succeed.
33:59 O Prophet! Tell thy wives and thy daughters and the women of the believers to draw their cloaks close round them (when they go abroad). That will be better, so that they may be recognised and not annoyed. Allah is ever Forgiving, Merciful.
64:14 O ye who believe! Lo! among your wives and your children there are enemies for you, therefor beware of them. And if ye efface and overlook and forgive, then lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful.
London Protest Part 2
Another anti-cartoon protest is planned for Saturday Feb 18th in London (so expect the hype to be kept up until then). More than 100,000 Muslims are expected to take part. Such a pity there wasn't a similar protest against the 7/7 terrorist attacks carried out by people who had apparently "hijacked" their religion. Shouldn't that have been something to get upset about?
Anyway, the protest is being organised because the Muslim Action Committee "said they needed to “channel” growing anger felt by communities across Britain that Muslims were being persecuted and made to feel like “second class citizens”."
Quite how a few cartoons published in Denmark, and never republished in Britain, makes British Muslims feel they are being persecuted and treated like second-class citizens is beyond me.
Anyway, the protest is being organised because the Muslim Action Committee "said they needed to “channel” growing anger felt by communities across Britain that Muslims were being persecuted and made to feel like “second class citizens”."
Quite how a few cartoons published in Denmark, and never republished in Britain, makes British Muslims feel they are being persecuted and treated like second-class citizens is beyond me.
EU To Censor Press?
This is a bad move-
One of the forged cartoons printed called Mohammed a paedophile. This was obviously a reference to his marriage to Aisha- a marriage begun when she was six years old and which was consummated when she was nine years old. And he was fifty one. Obviously the thought of a fifty one year old having sex with a nine year old girl is deeply disturbing.
For an infidel newspaper to discuss this matter would no doubt infuriate the Muslim world- but is their offence a good enough reason to not discuss matters like this? What if a paper wanted to print "The Prosecution's Case Against Islam", which offers a statistical analysis of the content of verses from the Koran? The result of the study showed that 52.7% of the verses aimed hatred at infidels. Could a newspaper under these new guidelines actually try to create a debate about whether or not Islam truly is a "Religion of Peace" under these new conditions? Or would howls of protest from Muslims claiming that their faith was being defamed prevent the article?
Has the code of conduct for the press ever been moderated to prevent Jews or Christians from being offended? Why now? Why do Muslims deserve to have their sensibilities placed above the freedom of the press? Why is a religion being held up higher than the most crucial ideal of freedom of speech?
In other words, there will be no freedom of the press to cover religion- and I find it somewhat disturbing that this measure is aimed at placating Muslim sensibilities. The consequences of exercising our free speech seems to be violence and threats of terrorist atrocities- and the EU is giving in to that threat. Doesn't this go against the grain of the European Declaration of Human Rights? Or is that to be altered so that Islam can never be criticised?LONDON (Reuters) - The European Union may try to draw up a media code of conduct to avoid a repeat of the furor caused by the publication across Europe of cartoons of the Prophet Mohammad, an EU commissioner said on Thursday.
In an interview with Britain’s Daily Telegraph, EU Justice and Security Commissioner Franco Frattini said the charter would encourage the media to show “prudence” when covering religion.
“The press will give the Muslim world the message: We are aware of the consequences of exercising the right of free expression,” he told the newspaper. “We can and we are ready to self-regulate that right.”
One of the forged cartoons printed called Mohammed a paedophile. This was obviously a reference to his marriage to Aisha- a marriage begun when she was six years old and which was consummated when she was nine years old. And he was fifty one. Obviously the thought of a fifty one year old having sex with a nine year old girl is deeply disturbing.
For an infidel newspaper to discuss this matter would no doubt infuriate the Muslim world- but is their offence a good enough reason to not discuss matters like this? What if a paper wanted to print "The Prosecution's Case Against Islam", which offers a statistical analysis of the content of verses from the Koran? The result of the study showed that 52.7% of the verses aimed hatred at infidels. Could a newspaper under these new guidelines actually try to create a debate about whether or not Islam truly is a "Religion of Peace" under these new conditions? Or would howls of protest from Muslims claiming that their faith was being defamed prevent the article?
Has the code of conduct for the press ever been moderated to prevent Jews or Christians from being offended? Why now? Why do Muslims deserve to have their sensibilities placed above the freedom of the press? Why is a religion being held up higher than the most crucial ideal of freedom of speech?
Oil Free
First it was Iceland announcing its plans to free itself from its "oil addiction" and now Sweden has followed suit, with Brazil also aiming to run 80% of its vehicles on ethanol within five years. Iceland is aiming to use water- turning it into hydrogen to run its vehicles. The cost of running such an engine (hydrogen fuel) is three times more expensive than using petrol- but it does get three times the mileage, evening out the costs. And that tip towards hydrogen can only increase as oil prices continue their rise. Only a few years ago the price of diesel here in the UK was about 65p per litre. It's now risen to about 95p. The price seems set to rise over the major barrier of £1 per litre any time now. Home heating oil is also vastly more expensive- my own yearly cost has risen by a fraction over £200.
The main opposition to alternatives in the initial cost of switching over- I'd love to swap out my oil fired central heating for a wood-chip burner but the cost is putting me off. As more times passes, however, and oil prices continue to rise- and the ongoing trouble in the Middle East seems set to continue and perhaps worsen- that cost will not be so great- and more and more people will change from running their homes and cars on oil.
It'll be interesting to see how the Middle East holds out when the vast majority of the world no longer needs their oil.
The main opposition to alternatives in the initial cost of switching over- I'd love to swap out my oil fired central heating for a wood-chip burner but the cost is putting me off. As more times passes, however, and oil prices continue to rise- and the ongoing trouble in the Middle East seems set to continue and perhaps worsen- that cost will not be so great- and more and more people will change from running their homes and cars on oil.
It'll be interesting to see how the Middle East holds out when the vast majority of the world no longer needs their oil.
What Constitutes "Tiny" Again?
Jihad Watch publishes an interesting table of poll results. The question asked was, "whether Shari'a should be the only source of legislation, one of the sources of legislation, or not be a source of legislation."
The response in Jordan, "Palestine" and Egypt was that two thirds believed that Sharia should be the only source of legislation. Most of the remainder believed it should be one of the sources of legislation.
The response in Jordan, "Palestine" and Egypt was that two thirds believed that Sharia should be the only source of legislation. Most of the remainder believed it should be one of the sources of legislation.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)