Going Backwards: Self-Guided Bullets Unveiled
‘Securing a Peaceful and Free World Through Technology.’ Not.
- Common Dreams staff

*Calculating killer

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/30-8
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Faustian Bargain: Proposal Seeks to Swap National Forest Land for Strip Mining
Shawnee National Forest would swap lands with Peabody Energy
- Common Dreams staff

*Derailing Mr. Peabody’s coal train

http://www.cowboylyrics.com/lyrics/prine-john/paradise-10845.html

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/30-11
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Showdown at Caterpillar Plant ‘Watershed Moment’ for North American Labor
Canada’s Labor Movement Digs in for ‘PATCO Equivalent,’ as Lockouts Drag On
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/30-10
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More Damning Evidence Points to Pesticide as Cause of Mass Bee Deaths
Bayer-produced imidacloprid harmful to bees even at very low levels
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/30-9
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Torture, and Impunity in US Courts
The decision to throw out Jose Padilla’s suit threatens the core freedoms guaranteed to US citizens by the constitution
by Jonathan Hafetz

*In the US court system, when “national security” is involved

Justice is willfully blind

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/30-12
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Hedge Funds, So-Called Centrists, and The 1% Candidate
There’s a secretive effort by mega-rich Wall Street titans to place a presidential candidate on the ballot in November.
by Peter Hart

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/30-7
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In Bad Faith: New Study Further Underscores Lack of Truth in Anti-Choice Claims
by Amanda Marcotte

*”Pro-life”

Just not what makes it worth living

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/30-10
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Amid ‘Turnaround Agenda,’ Teachers, Communities Overshadowed by Corporate Reforms
by Michelle Chen

*A different type of drone attack

The plutocracy doesn’t want masses of well-educated citizens.  For those it cares to employ, basic job skills are the desired outcome.

It wants bricks in the wall, not builders capable of creating structures outside their control.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/30-2
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NYT Hypes Israeli Attack on Iran
by Ira Chernus

*A fairy tale hardwired for an unhappy ending

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/30-0
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Corporations Have No Use for Borders
by Chris Hedges

*Solidarity must be shoreless

Not just because corporate rule is, as well

But because justice’s true and only value is in the universal, not the parochial

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/30
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Food & Water Watch
Consumer Group: Don’t Scrap Food Safety Protections to Ease Trade with Canada
Statement by Wenonah Hauter, Executive Director of Food & Water Watch

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/30-1
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Amnesty International Calls for Immediate Release of Female Activist in Bahrain — Beaten, Arrested and Jailed For Involvement in Pro-Reform Demonstrations

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/30-3
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FAIR Blog
NBC’s Curry on What ‘Everyone’ Knows About Iran

*The graphic in that screen grab caught my eye.

Aside from the question of what is “great” about America – as well as what is the definition of “America” – the phrasing tells you a great deal about the state of objectivity in the world of the corpress, doesn’t it?

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/30/nbcs-curry-on-what-everyone-knows-about-iran/

David Gregory’s House of Pain

*Ever notice that those demanding “hard choices” never find themselves in the position of having to do so?

Unless it’s deciding whether to have the escargot or the vichysoisse.

Screw it.  Order them both.

(Apologies for my ignorance regarding whether that would be a realistic choice involving haute cuisine.  I’ve never inhabited that world.

Nor would I ever wish to.)

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/30/david-gregorys-house-of-pain/
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Institute for Public Accuracy
Honduras: Murder Capital of World, “Made in the USA”

*New victims of a very old policy

http://www.accuracy.org/release/honduras-murder-capital-of-world-made-in-the-usa/
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DEMOCRACY NOW!
The Invisible War: New Film Exposes Rape, Sexual Assault Epidemic in U.S. Military

*Of course we know this is happening, but to hear the details from these women just makes you sick to your stomach.

And to listen to Dick’s naiveté about Panetta and his inability to see how this is all part and parcel of what the military is really about, as well as Goodman’s silence about it …

So, where are all these brave soldiers when it comes to defending one of their own?  Where’s the vaunted “code of honor”?

Wouldn’t you have liked to have heard Goodman ask these women about how they view the military now, as opposed to their illusions about it before joining?

You can’t honestly confront the masters of war until you see them, and the structures they’ve created to wage it, for what they truly are.

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/30/the_invisible_war_new_film_exposes

Occupy Oakland: Over 400 Arrested as Police Fire Tear Gas, Flash Grenades at Protesters

*Brought to you by Dear Misleader’s lackeys in City Hall

Lest we forget, they are good liberals all

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/30/occupy_oakland_over_400_arrested_as

National Park Service Threatens to Evict Occupy D.C. Encampments at Two Parks Near White House

*Apparently a continual reminder of his complicity and duplicity was a little too close for comfort for our Chameleon in Chief.

Steal the words

Stifle the speakers

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/30/national_park_service_threatens_to_evict

Syrian Activist Speaks from Hiding: The Bloodshed is Continuing Despite International Criticism

*The US wants to make hay out of this horror, so you have to think it’s got its spooks and special ops on the ground, working to accomplish that aim.

We need to know much more about just who directs the Free Syrian Army, don’t you think?

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/30/syrian_activist_speaks_from_hiding_the

1/27

Mass Demonstrations as EU Countries Sign on to Controversial ACTA Treaty
Over 20 EU states sign treaty yesterday
- Common Dreams staff

*The intellectual property provisions get the most attention, but the drug patent protections can mean the difference between life and death for untold numbers of people.

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/27
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Single Payer Falls 2 Votes Short In California Senate
Four Democrats Sit Out Critical Vote
- Common Dreams staff

*Aside from insurance, Big Pharma and HMO influence, how does the fact that it wouldn’t look good for the largest state to reject Obama’s “reforms” in favor of single payer play into the decision of Democratic senators to sit out this vote?

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/27-6
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Dirty Biofuels: Leaked Data Shows Some Worse Than Fossil Fuels
Palm oil and soy bean biodiesel nearly as bad as tar sands
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/27-5
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Postponed Joint Israel-US War Games Back On?
‘Austere Challenge 12′
- Common Dreams staff

*Admittedly speculation, at the moment, but don’t you have to wonder if rescheduling these “exercises” for October might have something to do with what will occur in November?

They would be an effective rejoinder to charges of being “soft” on Iran and not sufficiently supportive of Israel, wouldn’t they?

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/27-3
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Twitter Enables Censorship, Boycotts Begin
Reversing its position and heading down a slippery slope
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/27-4
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Free-Market Medicine: A Personal Account
by Michael Parenti

*A marriage of greed and gross indifference

In sickness and in wealth

Till death does its part

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/27-0
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Whitewashing History in Arizona
by Dennis Bernstein and Bill Means

*There is no honest hope for the future

If there is no honest understanding of the past

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/27-1
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The Shadow Banking System: A Web of Financial Fraud
by Ellen Brown

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/27-3
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Free Press: NAB Spin Won’t Change the Facts About Woeful Election Coverage

*What subtracts the more it ads?

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/27-1
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FAIR Blog
Pentagon Budgets and Fuzzy Math

*It doesn’t add up.

Except in the profit columns of military contractors.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/27/pentagon-budgets-and-fuzzy-math/
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DEMOCRACY NOW!
Despite Salary Caps, Treasury Approved Lucrative Exec Payouts at Dozens of Bailed-Out Firms

*Pity the poor plutocrats, dealing daily with the high cost of living high off the hog

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/27/despite_salary_caps_treasury_approved_lucrative

NYPD Commissioner Ray Kelly Urged to Resign After Police Conceal Role in Anti-Muslim Documentary

*It’s good to see this placed in the context of the NYPD’s abuses against many groups, which make it plain that this isn’t about a “lapse in judgment”, but a concerted effort to contain any challenge to the power structure in the city, and beyond.

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/27/nypd_commissioner_ray_kelly_urged_to

Gingrich’s Extremist Anti-Palestinian Stance Follows Millions from Casino Magnate Sheldon Adelson

*For Adelson and his fellow apartheidists, the two-state solution is Israel and the US thwarting any chance for a just outcome to this tragedy.

And a just outcome would be one state, with equal rights for all its inhabitants, not a Palestinian bantustan.

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/27/gingrichs_extremist_anti_palestinian_stance_follows

GOPers Claim Softened Immigration Stance in Bid to Win Florida Latino Vote, But Key Issues Ignored

*If only we could deport these two-faced double dealing bastards

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/27/gopers_claim_softened_immigration_stance_in

1/26

‘Right to Work’ Bill Passes in Indiana House
Unions prepare for similar battles in other states
- Common Dreams staff

*Notice there was nothing about this in Dear Misleader’s speechifying last night?

And yet labor “leadership” will march in lockstep with his campaign.

That’s a solidarity that should be shattered.

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/26-0
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Calamitous Night Raids Continue as Torch Passes to Afghan Army
Element of Surprise Deadly for Civilians
- Common Dreams staff

*Remember “Vietnamization”?

The Vietnamese do.

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/26-6
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Study: Potential Hazards of Nanotechnology Not Known
Without research into risks, “the future of safe and sustainable nanotechnology-based materials, products, and processes is uncertain”
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/26-5
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FBI Wants New App to Wiretap the Internet
‘Scraping’ social network postings including Facebook and Twitter
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/26-3
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How Swedes and Norwegians Broke the Power of the ‘1 Percent’
by George Lakey

*Not to say this piece isn’t informative, but Lakey’s being rather disingenous in the title, don’t you think?

How do you say that these nations “broke the power of the ’1 percent’ when both are members of NATO?

And how could there have been “a fling with neoliberal policies”, unless there was the power to do so?

In the end, we’re talking reformism, and while Norway’s brand may seem enviable compared to our situation, if our goal is a life of dignity for everyone, here and abroad, and we truly mean it, this can’t be our model, can it?

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/26-3
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Not A Peep About President’s Praise for War
by Laura Flanders

*In politics, militarism is often the first refuge of a scoundrel

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/26-4
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Physicians in Congress Committing Malpractice on Millions
by Brian Moench

*Doctoring the data

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/26-1
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‘American-Made Energy’: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
by Stefanie Penn Spear

*What’s left out of this is the question of who will control “clean energy”.

Actually, it’s not left out.  It’s simply assumed that corporations will, with the talk of “markets” and “investment”.

Spear’s not alone in that assumption.  Many other environmentalists seem to feel that’s the natural order of things.  But when profit enters the picture, what’s best for us, and the planet, exits.

Doing well will always trump doing good.  That’s the nature of profit.  The energy sources may be cleaner, but without public control of those sources, the model of greed before need and exploitation of employees will remain, and whatever chance we might still have for averting our doom will be lost.

It’s a blind spot that will plunge us all into darkness.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/26-0
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Freedom to Marry Pushes for Marriage in Maine

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/26-4
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Conservation and Native American Groups
Navy Training Blasts Marine Mammals With Harmful Sonar
Wildlife Protection Agency Challenged for Not Doing Its Job

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/26-5
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FAIR Blog
The Japanese Nuclear Establishment vs. the Two-Thirds ‘Minority’

*”Nuclear emergency” has a whole other meaning to the Post, doesn’t it?

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/26/the-japanese-nuclear-establishment-vs-the-two-thirds-minority/
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Institute for Public Accuracy
Corporate Accountability: Is There an App for That?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/corporate-accountability-is-there-an-app-for-that/
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DEMOCRACY NOW!
Iraqis Voice Outrage as Haditha Massacre Trial in Ends in No Jail Time for Accused U.S. Marines

*Again, it’s frustrating to have to listen to someone like McGirk, who talks about “cutting slack”, rather than covering up, for war crimes.  He speaks of the military “react[ing] very strongly” to “criminal behavior” outside of a combat situation.

Tell that to the rape victims in both countries, and elsewhere – and in the service itself.

Why is time wasted speaking to him, when other guests could provide the same information, while also placing these horrors in the proper context?

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/26/iraqis_voice_outrage_as_us_massacre

Glock: As Giffords Exits, a Look at the Gun Used in Tucson Rampage and Other U.S. Mass Shootings

*Making a killing with more bangs for the buck

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/26/glock_as_giffords_exits_a_look

1/25

Utopia: Social Forum Declares ‘Together We Are the 99%’
Thematic Social Forum 2012: Capitalist Crisis: Social and Environmental Justice
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/25-0
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ACTA: The International Treaty You’ve Never Heard of That Could Affect Internet Freedom
US among countries that have already signed ACTA
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/25-3
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On First Anniversary of Egyptian Uprising, Protesters Persist
‘A reason to demonstrate, not a reason to celebrate’
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/25
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Obama’s Mortgage ‘Investigation’ Designed to Fail?
‘Another bit of regulatory/enforcement theater’
- Common Dreams staff

*I got that MoveOn message as well.

Looks like they and other “soi-disant” (I’ll have to remember that) liberal/progressive groups will be moving on from “holding his feet to the fire” …

To spit shining his shoes.

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/25-2
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Mideast Cyberwar Continues to Claim More Victims
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/25-4
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Dystopia: Corporate Rule Breeding ‘Global Class War’
- Common Dreams staff

*The underlying premise here seems to be that the oligarchy must “play fair” to avoid “bad things happening”.

The mindset that comes across is one of advising criminals to merely give back some of their ill-gotten gains, and share some power with “the working people”, in order to live peaceably with their victims.

That’s not my idea of justice, and I hope it’s not for many others.

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/25-1
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Debate Club: Did the US Withdraw from Iraq Too Soon?
by Phyllis Bennis

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/25-0
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The Pathology of Inequality
by Paul Buchheit

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/25-8
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Environmental Working Group (EWG)
New School Lunch Standards Will Improve Diets for 31 Million Children

*This would be much more meaningful if it were coupled with a concomitant commitment to a food system focused on organically grown fresh produce and an end to agribusiness as usual.

Dream on, I know.

But it’s up to us to dream, and put that dream into action.

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/25-0
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Public Citizen to Financial Regulators: Bank of America Poses a Grave Threat to U.S. Financial Stability, Should Be Broken Up
Petition Calls on the Federal Reserve and Financial Stability Oversight Council to Reform Banking Behemoth, Create Smaller, Simpler and Safer Institutions to Guard Against Financial Crisis

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/25-6
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Institute for Public Accuracy
SOTU Analysis: * Empire * Energy * Economy

*The emperor has no clothes

Just naked aggression

http://www.accuracy.org/release/sotu-analysis-empire-energy-economy/
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DEMOCRACY NOW!
“He Says One Thing and Does Another”: Ralph Nader Responds to Obama’s State of the Union Address

*Putting the lie to the Lord of Illusions

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/25/he_says_one_thing_and_does

Egypt: Sharif Abdel Kouddous Reports from Cairo as Crowds Mark 1 Year of Revolution in Tahrir Square

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/25/egypt_sharif_abdel_kouddous_reports_from

“In Tahrir Square”: HBO Doc on Egypt’s Revolution Through Eyes of Democracy Now!’s Sharif Kouddous

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/25/in_tahrir_square_hbo_doc_on

1/24

Marine Gets Light Sentence for Massacre of Iraqi Civilians
Plea deal gives Frank Wuterich 3-month confinement, pay cut
- Common Dreams staff

*And Bradley Manning faces life, after being tortured.

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/24-0
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Cell 36: Palestinian Children Locked in Solitary Confinement in Israel
by The Guardian/UK

http://www.commondreams.org/video/2012/01/24-0
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Court to Vermont: “Drop Dead”
by Harvey Wasserman

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/24-4
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Scott Walker’s Plutonomy: An Economy for the One Percent
by Mary Bottari

*Welcome to Gecko Land

(Admission free with purchase of politician)

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/24-6
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Students Step Up Tucson Walkouts
Protest School District Folly and Mexican American Studies Banishment
by Jeff Biggers

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/24-2
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Public Employees for Environmental Responsibility (PEER)
Creeping Corporatization of National Parks
Summit Promoting a Billion Dollar Private Endowment for Parks

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/24
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FAIR Blog
Richard Cohen Wowed by Professor Gingrich

Part of me is fascinated by the workings of Cohen’s brain.

A much larger part of me is scared shirtless.

As for Obama and community organizing, he’s putting his skills to good use within the gated enclaves these days, judging by his campaign finance reports.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/24/richard-cohen-wowed-by-professor-gingrich/

Mother’s Health News, Brought to You by Carcinogenic Baby Shampoo

*All the shampoo in the world won’t wash the smell out of this sellout, will it?

The only valid currency any news source has is its integrity, and this deal washes that right down the bathtub drain.

Similar should be said for the Campaign for Safe Cosmetics.  As is so often the case, the desire to trumpet a “victory” – and generate contributions – takes precedence over proclaimed principles.

I guess folks abroad will just have to exercise a bit more caution when they rinse and repeat.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/24/mothers-health-news-brought-to-you-by-carcinogenic-baby-shampoo/
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Institute for Public Accuracy
Egypt One Year After the Uprising, Protests Continue Against Junta

http://www.accuracy.org/release/26574/

Gingrich Gets Another $5 Million Via Pro-Israeli Casino Mogul Adelson

*The ten million dollar word comes down from Mount Zionism

http://www.accuracy.org/release/gingrich-gets-another-5-million-via-pro-israeli-casino-mogul-adelson/
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DEMOCRACY NOW!
As Romney Releases Tax Returns, Fmr Senate Investigator Says: We’ve Got To Start Taxing Corporations

*The most salient point to me is the effective debunking of the “taxes equal job losses” myth.

Regarding Obama’s self-imposed contribution restraints, they’re rather meaningless, as his campaign fund is awash in money from wealthy individuals.  So the fact that he doesn’t receive checks directly from lobbyists and corporations really doesn’t mean diddley, does it?

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/24/as_romney_releases_tax_returns

“The Atomic States of America”: Exploring a Nation’s Struggle with Nuclear Power

*Joyce talks about an accident being necessary to get people’s attention, and I think that speaks to the larger issue of how we’re conditioned not to connect the dots, both on a single issue, and among issues.  You’d think that, having been lied to about nuclear power, folks would look askance at what gummint officials and corporate spokespersons say about anything else, whether it’s the reasons for wars or tax cuts for the rich, or denials of climate change.

Once you put two and two together, and find out it doesn’t equal five, you should be pretty goddamn skeptical of your math teacher.

And it’s a sadly surreal state of affairs when you have to hope a talk show host has some clout to keep your child safe from cancer.

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/24/the_atomic_states_of_america_exploring

1/23

Iraq Coming Apart: Intensifying Crackdown on Free Speech, Protests
With US Troops Hardly Gone, Iraq’s Government is Coming Apart
- Common Dreams staff

*The HRW report and the McClatchy piece don’t jibe, do they?

The latter infers that US troops were somehow “keeping the peace” – the typical corpress framing – while the former puts the lie to that, doesn’t it?

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/23-0
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Supreme Court Ruling Restricts Police Use of GPS Device
GPS tracking unconstitutional without warrant
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/23-1
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Critics of Mortgage Deal Press Obama, State AGs to Reject Big Bank Proposal
Progressives “Furious” at Emerging Details of Mortgage Deal
- Common Dreams staff

*Just so much posturing from persons like Jones and Trumka, who will jump on the Obama bandwagon “with reluctance” when the campaign swings into high gear.

No settlement is acceptable.  Prosecute these bastards to the full extent of the law, return the money they stole to the people they stole it from, and do what it takes to make right what was so wrong.

Of course, that won’t happen.  True justice would demand that those whose oaths of office obligate them to take such measures also pay for their crimes.  You’re asking the getaway driver to try the bank robber – an intensely ironic analogy, in that we’re talking about robber banks.

But regardless of the odds, nothing less can be considered a victory, can it?

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/23-2
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Conservative Fantasies About the Miracles of the Market
by Robert Jensen

*Cashing in

And taking the credit

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/23-7
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FAIR Blog
Rooting for Newt?

*I guess you could say that Gingrich is both the charmer …

And the snake.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/23/rooting-for-newt/

Nick Kristof and the School Reform Straw Man

*The unmitigated gall is palpable when those who don’t give a good goddamn for poor children use them as props for promoting policies designed to keep them poor.

You could call it a standardized test of hypocrisy among media elites, whose kids will never have to worry about the effects of their parents’ propaganda on their educational opportunities, will they?

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/23/nick-kristof-and-the-school-reform-straw-man/
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DEMOCRACY NOW!
Medical Whistleblower Dr. Steven Nissen on “Escape Fire: The Fight to Rescue American Healthcare”

*Much of the material I post contains contradictions, to my mind, but I feel there’s some useful information to be had.  Sometimes those contradictions are the result of a limited moral and/or rational viewpoint, and sometimes they simply defy explanation.

Case in point here.

How the hell do you do a segment on healthcare reform, and not one damn time mention universal coverage?  Neither Nissen nor Goodman – whose job it is to ask the vital questions – says a word about it, or the fact that the US is one of the only, if not the only, developed nation without some form of it.

Truly unfathomable, don’t you think?

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/23/medical_whistleblower_dr_steven_nissen_on_escape

Raj Patel: In Attacks on Obama, Food Stamps, Newt Gingrich is “Racially Coding Poverty”

*I think two of the most important points to take from this are the nexus between low wages and nutritionally void food products which are low-cost in price and high-cost in health, as well as the rigged food system that ensures the profit margins of the agribusiness behemoths who produce such pigswill.

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/23/raj_patel_in_attacks_on_obama

1/22

GOP Still Pushing Tar Sands Pipeline
House Speaker Boehner: ‘We are going to do everything we can to try to make sure that this Keystone pipeline is, in fact, approved.’
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/22-0
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In New Campaign Video, President Obama Shows His Love for Israel
- Common Dreams staff

*No separation anxiety here

Regardless of the race of the resident, apartheid is A-OK in the Oval Office

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/21-0
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The Right to Be Healthy: Supreme Court Weighs Sick Leave for State Workers
by Michelle Chen

*A sickening situation from every angle

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/22-1
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Military Intervention vs. Maritime Union Power
by Brian Tierney

*This is a telling example of the political pantomime played out in statehouses, Congress and at the White House.

The GOP castigates Dear Misleader for appointing “union lackeys” to the NLRB, while that body protects the interests of those who control both parties.

Meanwhile, national “union leadership” undercuts the most passionate adherents to the call for “Solidarity forever”.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/22
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Could Ecuador Be the Most Radical and Exciting Place on Earth?
A decade ago, Ecuador was a banana republic, an economic basket case. Today, it has much to teach the rest of the world
by Jayati Ghosh

*Some very positive developments, but we must always be alert to the contradictions alongside them.  Just as it’s folly to place any person on a pedestal, it’s a mistake to assume any nation’s government is committed to the well-being of all its people.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/21-0

1/20

Fracking the World: Energy Companies Set Their Sights Globally
Africa, Latin America may see biggest growth in fracking
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/20
.

Maine’s Tea Party Governor: ‘Slash Health and Human Services or I’ll Close Schools’
- Common Dreams staff

*Hostage taking at penpoint

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/20-3
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Report: US Soldiers Bringing Their Violence Home from Overseas
After Ten Years of War Sex Crimes, Domestic Abuse, and Suicide on the Rise for US Soldiers
- Common Dreams staff

*Another factor would be the military’s reprehensible lack of concern about this, aside from its PR implications.

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/20-1
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Why Obama’s ‘Targeted Killing’ is Worse than Bush’s Torture
Both are legally prohibited but speciously justified by the White House. The difference? Obama’s policy kills innocent bystanders
by Mary Ellen O’Connell

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/20-7
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We Know How to Curb Poverty, We Simply Fail to Act
This Week in Poverty: An American Commitment to Children?
by Greg Kaufmann

*Notice that the title, and the text, deal with how to curb poverty, not how to end it.

I think that pretty much sums up liberal policies on the issue.  To talk of truly ending poverty, and creating the conditions for every single person to have a life of dignity, is beyond the pale, for that would entail a radical transformation of the status quo.

And that, by definition, is anathema to liberalism, isn’t it?

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/20-5
.

After Tragedy, Apple Tries to Polish Image on Workers’ Rights
by Michelle Chen

*Shining up a rotten Apple

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/20-9
.

Blood on Whose Hands?: Bradley Manning, Wikileaks, and the Blood of Civilians
by Chase Madar

*The butchers abhor the blood

Even as it drips from their blades

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/20-6
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On US Education: It’s the Socioeconomic Segregation, Stupid
by Jim Horn

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/20-4
.

Institute for Agriculture & Trade Policy
Antibiotic-Resistant MRSA Bacteria Widely Present in Retail Pork, New Study Says

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/20-8
.

ACLU
Obama Administration Protects Birth Control Access for Women

*Even bastards do the right thing when it’s in their interest.

How many checks from NOW members do you think the DNC and Obama 2012 receive, versus ones from “right to lifers”?

Okay then.

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/20-7
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Rainforest Action Network (RAN)
Bank of America is Main Target of Economic and Environmental Groups
Tour of Shame through SF Financial District focuses on Bank of America branches

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/20-6
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FAIR Blog
NYT’s Apple Debate Factcheck, Without Facts

*A shame Jobs died before the realization of his dream …

A right to work America eviscerated of environmental and safety regulations that would put the PRC to shame.

It’s up to his CEO brethren to keep hope alive.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/20/nyts-apple-debate-factcheck-without-facts/
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
“Open Marriage”?

*It seems whatever the context

Newt wants to screw as many people as he can

http://www.accuracy.org/release/open-marriage/

Greek and Eurozone Crises: Proposal Threatening Modern Europe?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/greek-and-eurozone-crises-proposal-threatening-modern-europe/
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
GOP Contest Rattled Before SC Primary as Perry Exits, Newt’s Ex-Wife Speaks Out, Santorum Takes Iowa

*Old times there are not forgotten

They’re incorporated into campaign strategy

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/20/gop_contest_rattled_before_sc_primary

Ahead of South Carolina Primary, GOP Candidates Employ Race-Baiting Tradition to Win Southern Vote

*I think it’s pretty amazing that Gray could encourage folks to vote for a racist like Paul, whatever his justification.

Paul’s “anti-war, anti-imperialist” stance has nothing to do with any sense of humanity, and his “civil liberties championing” can’t be separated from his advocation of other “liberties” … such as the right for employers to do whatever the hell they want to their employees.

You can’t advance your principles on one front by abandoning them on another.

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/20/ahead_of_south_carolina_primary_gop

Tariq Ali: Obama’s Expansion of Af-Pak War “Has Blown Up in His Face”

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/20/tariq_ali_obamas_expansion_of_af

1/19

Occupy Wall Street’s Next Phase: Avoid Cooptation in Election Season
By Glen Ford

*If you play their game, you accept their rules.

And I thought Occupy was about changing the rules.

http://www.blackagendareport.com/content/occupy-wall-street%E2%80%99s-next-phase-avoid-cooptation-election-season
.

Big Money Bundlers As Prominent as Ever in Obama White House
- Common Dreams staff

*Does “clean hands” mean that while they’re covered in horseshit, they’re free of bullshit?

And I don’t think Obama has to worry about being “outgunned”, considering the arsenal of Wall Street ammo he’s amassing by the day.

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/19-0
.

Japan Still Pushing Nuclear Power
New plan changes 40-year limit to 60 years; nuclear opponents outraged
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/19-1
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Surveillance City: New Body Scanners Head to NYC
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/19
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Capitalism’s Real Gravediggers
Beware the ‘Gush-Up Gospel’ Behind India’s Billionaires
by Arundhati Roy

*Their wealth segregates them from the rest of us in life, but in the end, we will all be tossed together into the mass grave of a dead world

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/19-9
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2012′s Civil Liberties Apocalypse Has Already Happened
by Harvey Wasserman and Bob Fitrakis

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/19-10
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Working and Poor in the USA
by Bill Quigley

*As long as we work *for* someone, rather than *with* others, these numbing numbers will remain a reality, and “work with dignity” will be an empty dream

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/19-4
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The Dignity of Corpses
by Robert C. Koehler

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/19-1
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The FBI and Federal Prosecutors Say My Journalism Is “Extremist”
by Will Potter

*To the FBI, a URL is an IED

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/19-11
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Center for Biological Diversity
Dunes Sagebrush Lizard Named One of 10 U.S. Species Most Threatened by Fossil Fuel Development

*Death by unnatural causes

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/19-5
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Amnesty International Calls for Immediate Release of Ethiopian Prisoners of Conscience

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/19-2
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
Mormonism: * Bigotry * President Romney’s Bishophood a Threat to the First Amendment?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/mormonism-bigotry-president-romneys-bishophood-a-threat-to-the-first-amendment/
.

FAIR Blog
Dubious Pipeline Assertions Become USA Today Headlines

*The irony of all this is that if Dear Misleader’s re-elected (the most likely outcome), he’ll use the same talking points of job creation and energy security to justify his approval of a rerouted pipeline.

Of course, his election victory will be owed in part to the support of “the environmental community”, which is why he rejected the current proposal, and why he sought to initially delay his decision.

But before he does the dirty deed, we’ll witness deja vu all over again, as the perpetually naive gather in front of the White House, once again appealing to his phantom conscience, and urging him to “do the right thing”.

I don’t mean to question their sincerity.  It’s just that some people never learn.

And this world doesn’t have time for such a long learning curve, does it?

As the sign says …

THERE IS NO PLANET B

(More comments at link)

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/19/dubious-pipeline-assertions-become-usa-today-headlines/
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DEMOCRACY NOW!
SOPA: Anti-Piracy or Censorship? Wikipedia’s Jimmy Wales vs. Copyright Alliance’s Sandra Aistars

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/19/sopa_anti_piracy_or_censorship_wikipedias

1/18

Obama Administration Rejects Keystone XL Pipeline
Bill McKibben: “This is a victory for Americans who testified in record numbers”
- Common Dreams staff

*It’s hard to listen to McKibben et al. praise a blatantly political decision as some act of political courage.

With this, Dear Misleader opens the wallets of the “environmental community” for his campaign, and once re-elected, declares that a “painstaking review” of an alternate route has “allayed his concerns”.

Will that definitely occur?

Where would you put your money?

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/18-3
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Hedge Funds, Goldman Sachs Lurk Beneath Greek Crisis
- Common Dreams staff

*A crass menagerie of loan sharks and vultures

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/18-1
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Fla. Legislation: More Privatization and Keep It From the Public
Bill would allow more privatization of correctional facilities, revises privatization of agency functions requirements
- Common Dreams staff

*And they call it “the Sunshine State”

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/18-4
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Websites Go Black to Protest Internet Censorship Bill
Organizations in opposition to bills fear openness of Internet at stake
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/18
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More Intellectual Dishonesty at the New York Times
by Thomas S. Harrington

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/18-7
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The Myth of “Isolated” Iran
Following the Money in the Iran Crisis
by Pepe Escobar

*Some deep intel on the situation, which I wish I had the wherewithal to be able to verify with confidence.  I would advise keeping this in mind when deciphering developments.

One element left out of this equation, and many others, is what occurs when the carbon comes home to roost.  What will the oil-addicted economies of nations rich and poor do once it’s unavoidably apparent, as it should have been long before, that we’re headed for the fate of all junkies who can’t kick the habit?

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/18-4
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For God So Loved the 1 Percent …
by Kevin M. Kruse

*To these false prophets, God *is* Mammon

So the choice is moot

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/18-5
.

Pressure Israel, Not Iran
by Marjorie Cohn

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/18
.

FAIR Blog
NYT and the Racism Bog

“[I]nvoking arguments perceived to carry racial themes or other value-laden attack lines.”

I wonder if that’s how the Times described Hitler’s campaign rhetoric.

As for the White Citizens Council, my daddy was a member, and I can tell you that there wasn’t a racist bone in his body.

The soft tissue was another matter.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/18/nyt-and-the-racism-bog/
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
The Facts About Food Stamps

*From pittance to penury

http://www.accuracy.org/release/the-facts-about-food-stamps/
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Debating Tucson School District’s Book Ban After Suspension of Mexican American Studies Program

*I think it’s pretty obvious what Huppenthal’s agenda is.

Isn’t it interesting how disturbed he said he was by the Che poster, comparing it to one of Hitler, yet he didn’t ask how Guevara was presented to the students?

And he claims teachers changed their lessons for the audit, yet when he comes to class, the teacher discusses Franklin in a way she or he have had to know would be looked at jaundicedly by the superintendent.

Highly illogical, Captain.

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/18/debating_tucson_school_districts_book_ban

Expansion of Indefinite Detention under NDAA Compounds Extradition Fears of WikiLeaks’ Assange

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/18/expansion_of_indefinite_detention_under_ndaa

1/17

Archbishop in Minnesota Opposes Marriage Equality, Dissent in Equal Measure
- Common Dreams

*God is love

(Void where prohibited)

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/17-4
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Well Blowout, Toxic Water: Fracking Disasters on the Rise
Oil well blowout in Alberta, explosive water in Ohio put drilling technique under scrutiny
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/17-3
.

Arizona School District Wipes Latino American History Off the Map
- Common Dreams staff

*Everything but the book burnings

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/17-2
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FAIR Blog
PBS, NPR Try to Defend Iran Distortions

*”It’s elementary, my dear Watson.

You cannot give up what you do not have.

A case in point:

Public broadcasting cannot abandon its commitment to honest reportage, as it has none to renounce.”

“Eminently logical, Holmes.”

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/17/pbs-npr-try-to-defend-iran-distortions/
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
Democracy: “Why Not Jordan?”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/democracy-why-not-jordan/
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DEMOCRACY NOW!
Wikipedia, Reddit to Shut Down Sites Wednesday to Protest Proposed Stop Online Piracy Act

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/17/wikipedia_reddit_to_shut_down_sites

“Internet Censorship Affects Everybody”: Rebecca MacKinnon on the Global Struggle for Online Freedom

*With Big Brother on keyboards:

Surveilling and censoring cyberspace

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/17/internet_censorship_affects_everybody_rebecca_mackinnon

Journalist Chris Hedges Sues Obama Admin over Indefinite Detention of U.S. Citizens Approved in NDAA

*Perry knows from despicable

I shouldn’t wonder that he collects the pens he’s used to sign hundreds of death warrants

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/17/journalist_chris_hedges_sues_obama_admin

1/16

Goodbye, Fish: Rising CO2 Direct Threat to Sea Life
Study: Rising CO2 affecting brains, central nervous systems of sea fish
- Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/16-6
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‘People’ of the Internet Unite to Fight SOPA/PIPA Legislation
- Common Dreams staff

*Depending on its political calculations, the White House may be behind you

Or it may just like it doggy style

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/16-0
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Highly Radioactive Concrete Is Latest Scare for Fukushima Survivors
Radiation fears have since become part of daily life in Japan
- Common Dreams staff

*Of profit margins and radiation levels

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/16-2
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On MLK Day, Romney Steps Up his Attacks on Immigrants
Romney Makes South Carolina Campaign Stop with Kris Kobach, Anti-immigrant Champion
- Common Dreams staff

*Romney gets a hard right on

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/16-3
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The Revolutionary MLK
Jared Ball: Martin Luther King Jr. stood for revolutionary transformation; he is used today to support policies that he fought against
by The Real News

*Ball fleshes out the false prophet of King Day

http://www.commondreams.org/video/2012/01/16-0
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The Crash and Burn Future of Robot Warfare
What 70 Downed Drones Tell Us About the New American Way of War
by Nick Turse

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/16-0
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Why I’m Suing Barack Obama
by Chris Hedges

*The terrorism that truly threatens our freedom

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/16
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Protest DNC
Organizations Announce Plans for Actions During the Democratic National Convention in September, and to Challenge City over Denial of Permits

*Some Southern discomfort for the Dems

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/16-1
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DEMOCRACY NOW!
SPECIAL: Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in His Own Words

*What moves me, beyond the humanity in these words, is the context of them.

Many have spoken with equal eloquence of our obligation to each other, and of the forces which conspire to deter us from that obligation.

But King’s words possessed the unrivaled ability to be truly heard.  He had the nation’s ear, and those words couldn’t be ignored.

And he chose to use that visibility to go beyond the parameters set for him, to go beyond the allowed to the demanded.

And he knew the cost of that defiance.

He was on the Jericho Road, and he did not pass by the man who fell among thieves.

That was a choice, but he didn’t consider it a choice.  For him, it was a duty.

Had he made another choice, he might still be with us, but as a “revered civil rights leader”, an icon with no ability to inspire anyone other than the ignorant.

He would be the living embodiment of the statues and streets which bear his name, but are devoid of his spirit.

So while we should never place anyone on a pedestal, we should profoundly appreciate the courage and honesty in these words, and strive to mirror those essential human qualities in our own lives.

King’s death was a great blow to those who work for justice, but his legacy lives on in every one of us who realizes that we can never reach our journey’s destination as long as there are others left on the side of the road.

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/16/special_dr_martin_luther_king_jr
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Beyond Vietnam: A Time to Break Silence
Declaration of Independence from the War in Vietnam
by Martin Luther King, Jr

*Full text

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/16-6

1/13

Foreshadowing of Another Oilpocalypse? Shell’s Arctic Drilling Plans Move Forward
-CommonDreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/13-0
.

‘Teaching Bashing’ Bloomberg Draws Ire
-Common Dreams staff report

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/13-1
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Romney’s Tax Plan: Coddle the 1%
-Common Dreams staff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/13
.

Who Knew There Was So Much Poverty? The Poor, That’s Who
by Donna Smith

*I was leery that this would be another paean to “the wise persons” whom proclaimed progressives tend to knee-jerk genuflect before – not that they don’t often say wise things – but Smith makes an imperative point, doesn’t she?

Go to the source.  Respect the folks catching the shit.  Listen to their stories and their views.

If experience is the best teacher, we need those who live it on the faculty.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/13-12
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The (Remote-Controlled) War at Home
How activists are trying to bring the moral implications of drone warfare to light.
by Valerie Schloredt

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/13-9
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Arthur Brisbane, The NYT and Selective Stenography Journalism
by Glenn Greenwald

*Unquestionable content

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/13-11
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Easy to Gut Public Education When Your Own Kids Attend Private School
America’s Dangerously Removed Elite
by David Sirota

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/13-3
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Why Mayor Emanuel’s Proposed Anti-Protester Ordinances Are Everyone’s Concern
Author
by Andy Thayer

*Barack’s bud’s local version of “nope and chains”

http://chicago.indymedia.org/newswire/display/95586/index.php
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
South Carolina, MLK, Black America’s Invisibility

*And those who castigated King now solemnly call us to remember him

Not as he was, but as he has been shaped

Into statues of stone that seek to encase his soul

Let us break open those sarcophagi

And release his spirit back into a world

So desperately in need of its presence

http://www.accuracy.org/release/south-carolina-mlk-black-americas-invisibility/
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
2 Years After Devastating Earthquake, Haiti’s Rebuilding Weighed Down by Legacy of Foreign Meddling

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/13/2_years_after_devastating_earthquake_haitis

“Memory is the Active Agent of Collective Social Progress”: Randall Robinson on His New Novel Makeda

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/13/memory_is_the_active_agent_of

On Eve of MLK Day, Michelle Alexander & Randall Robinson on the Mass Incarceration of Black America

*This is the sort of narrative-negating imperative intel that should be the staple of independent media, don’t you think?

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/13/on_eve_of_mlk_day_michelle

1/12

FAIR Extra!
Journalism Under Arrest
Clamping down on reporters at Occupy crackdowns
by Jim Naureckas

*You’d think the corpress outlets would raise holy hell about their people being treated like this.

But then you’d be applying reason to the wholly irrational, wouldn’t you?

http://www.fair.org/index.php?page=4457
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Foreclosure Nation: 2012 Could Bring Wave of Foreclosures
States likely to see surge of long-delayed foreclosure action in 2012
by CommonDreams.org

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/12-1
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Rising Awareness in Class Divide, Many Point to OWS: Report
Compiled by Common Dreams staff

*I wouldn’t call it “uniquely”.  Let’s say it’s a “quintessentially” American trait that we’ll acknowledge the patently obvious when it can’t be avoided, but we’ll refuse to draw the logical conclusion from it.

That’s a learned behavior.

And guess who are the teachers.

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/12-0
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New Bill Would Put Taxpayer-Funded Science Behind Pay Walls
by Lena Groeger
ProPublica

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/12-2
.

Revolving Door: From Top Futures Regulator to Top Futures Lobbyist
by Matt Taibbi
Rolling Stone

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/12-3
.

War Clouds Darken: Russia Warns of US Strike on Iran
Ahmadinejad: ‘Heartless capitalism is the root cause of war’
-Common Dreams Staff Report

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/12-5
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Iran and the Terrorism Game
by Glenn Greenwald

*Speaking in forked tongues

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/12-2
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Why Romney’s “Firing” Gaffe Really Resonates
by David Atkins

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/12-7
.

Montana Upholds Ban on Corporate Electioneering, Leads Growing National Revolt
by Jeff Milchen

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/12-0
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States Attempt to Instill ‘Work Ethic’ by Rolling Back Child Labor Protections
by Michelle Chen

*Greedy grownups and sleazy kid stuff

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/12-1
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FAIR Blog
NYT to Readers: Can You Handle the Truth?

*If the corpress had to document its own questionable assertions, there wouldn’t be any space left for the Style sections.

And it’s ironic how many of the false accusations hurled at Dear Misleader are about what I’d actually want him to be and do.

As the man said …

“Obama is not a brown-skinned, anti-war socialist who gives away free health-care.

You’re thinking of Jesus.”

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/12/nyt-to-readers-can-you-handle-the-truth/
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DEMOCRACY NOW!
Ex-FCC Commissioner Michael Copps on Media Consolidation, Broadband Expansion, Threats to Journalism

*I cringe whenever it’s implied that there was some “golden age” of media responsibility, when any objective reading of American history refutes that claim.  We’re talking about a matter of degree, and not kind.  The mainstream media has always reflected the views of the powerful.  At one point the profit motive was less of an uber alles proposition, and some semblance of honest journalism was more evident than the present, but from Hearst (and before) to Murdoch, and also among the “respectable” outlets like the NYT and the Post, the goal of those who control content has always been to preserve privilege by limiting and falsifying what enters the public sphere.

As for “profanity”, the fact that liars and hatemongers can ply their corrupting craft unimpeded across the media landscape is far more of an obscenity that any amount of foul language could come close to equaling, don’t you think?

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/12/ex_fcc_commissioner_michael_copps_on

1/11

Are Drones Watching You?
by Jennifer Lynch
Deeplinks Blog/EFF

*Giving us the evil eye in the sky

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/11-6
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Grandparents, Unite! Your Grandchildren’s Future is at Stake
by Sally and Bill McCoy

*Old souls

Young hearts

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/11-6
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Institute for Public Accuracy
Ten Years of Guantanamo, Threat of More Indefinite Detentions

*I have a problem with the intense focus on Guantánamo.

Certainly it should be closed, as should Bagram and all the black sites around the world.  But the argument that these “create terrorists”, as though shuttering them would somehow transform the US into a beacon of justice, is just absurd.

Imperialism creates resistance.  For all its contradictions, 1776, anyone?

A nation which respects other nations and peoples has no need for torture chambers, and no reason to fear “terrorism”, for it does not engage in it.

Guantánamo is a symptom, not the disease.

http://www.accuracy.org/release/ten-years-of-guantanamo-threat-of-more-indefinite-detentions/

Two Years after Haiti Earthquake: UN Cholera Epidemic Rages as Situation in Camps Deteriorates

http://www.accuracy.org/release/two-years-after-haiti-earthquake-un-cholera-epidemic-rages-as-situation-in-camps-deteriorates/
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DEMOCRACY NOW!
Romney Wins Republican New Hampshire Primary, Followed by Paul, Huntsman

*If this is “the greatest country in the history of the earth”

How is it that these schmucks have a shot at the highest office in it?

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/11/romney_wins_republican_new_hampshire_primary

Romney Cements Front-Runner Status with Unlimited Spending from Unregulated Super PACs

*This is what’s often frustrating about DN!’s coverage.  Airtime is precious, and shouldn’t be spent on conventional horse race reporting to any significant degree.

This segment should have focused on the Super PAC factor, not merely tacking it on at the end, don’t you think?

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/11/romney_cements_frontrunner_status_with_unlimited

Rivals’ Attacks on Romney’s Corporate Record Display Occupy Wall Street’s Wide Reach

*Speaking of frustrating …

It’s absurd to claim that the cooptation of a narrative is tantamount to its success.  Yes, its resonance has led to its being used as spin by Gingrich et al., but it will be consigned to that fate by those employing it for their own ends, and by the corpress, who will cast it as merely a campaign tactic, just as it’s dealt with the message from Occupy as a political curiosity, and not a political and economic truth it is obligated to actually report on in a conscientious manner.

As for this infatuation with Paul, don’t you have to ask yourself how his blatantly prejudiced newsletter rants, as well as the utter lack of humanity embodied in his libertarianism, would be covered were they the baggage lugged by one of the other Republican candidates?

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/11/rivals_attacks_on_romneys_corporate_record

How New Hampshire Became Last U.S. State to Recognize MLK Day Holiday

*I’m glad to see Alpert draw that intense distinction between Paul’s vision and King’s, but again, this gets tacked on at the end, instead of being the central focus of the coverage of his campaign.

And it just stinks.

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/11/how_new_hampshire_became_last_us

1/10

Florida Legislation Paves Ground for Water Privatization
Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn open to selling water for industry, agriculture; may consider “toilet to tap” measures
by CommonDreams.org

*Flush with profit

While our rights go down the toilet

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/10-2
.

Detroit May Be Next Michigan City to Get ‘Emergency Manager’
Finance team holds first meeting
by CommonDreams staff
CommonDreams.org

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/10-3
.

Grow Up, Ron Paul
by Carl Gibson

*The “freedom” of enough rope

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/10
.

Occupy Wall Street: Why Now? What’s Next?
Naomi Klein and Yotam Marom in Conversation About Occupy Wall Street
by Naomi Klein and Yotam Marom

*I thought this dealt with key questions we face in a relatively
intelligent fashion.

See what you think.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/10-1
.

Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR)
Two Years Later, Haitians Are Worse Off Due to Cholera, Lack of Accountability, CEPR Co-Director Says

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/10-6
.

Environmental Coalition Concludes New York State DEC’s Fracking Proposal Too Fatally Flawed to Move Forward
After two drafts, significant aspects of environmental impact statement still so deficient that it must be redone

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/10-7
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
Hot Spots: Strait of Hormuz, South China Sea and Caspian Basin

*The junkies fight over the dirty energy stash

While we wait for the carbon OD

http://www.accuracy.org/release/hot-spots-strait-of-hormuz-south-china-sea-and-caspian-basin/
.

FAIR Blog
‘Opinions Differ’ Should Be the Start of PolitiFact’s Job

*Isn’t it ironic that the less credibly a “fact-checker” does its job, the more credibility it has with the corpress?

Birds of a feather …

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/10/opinions-differ-should-be-the-start-of-politifacts-job/

Pundits and the Romney Pass

*So, Romney lies, and purportedly would be similar to Obama once in office.

And Obama lied, and is actually similar to Romney as President.

And they both get Clinton’s stamp of approval.

Welcome to “the liberal media”‘s wet dream.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/10/pundits-and-the-romney-pass/

It’s GOOD That Romney Has No Principles

*What have these schmenges been drinking?

And should it be allowed on the market?

(Given the evisceration of the FDA, that’s likely a moot question.)

As for drawing a direct line from socialist principles to Stalin’s, Mao’s and Kim’s horrors, isn’t that akin to blaming Jesus (or his ghostwriter) for the Crusades, the Inquisition, and all the other obscene sins of historical and current “Christianity”?

But I did learn that Carter was a “principled politician”.

I’ll pass that along to the people of Haiti, among others:

http://www.fair.org/index.php?page=2263

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/10/its-good-that-romney-has-no-principles/
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Guantánamo Prisoners Launch Hunger Strike to Protest Base’s 10th Anniversary

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/10/guantnamo_prisoners_launch_hunger_strike

Guantánamo Exclusive: Former Chief Prosecutor, Ex-Prisoner Call on Obama to Close Prison

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/10/guantnamo_exclusive_former_prisoner_chief_prosecutor

NDAA: Obama Signs Law Restricting Transfer of Guantánamo Prisoners and Expands Indefinite Detention

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/10/ndaa_obama_signs_law_restricting_transfer

Laid-Off Steelworker: Mitt Romney and Bain Capital Profited by Shutting Down Kansas Steel Plant

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/10/laid_off_steelworker_mitt_romney_and

1/9

New Report Details Extent of US Military Reliance on Drones
by CommonDreams.org

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/09-5
.

Poor US Citizens Barter Their Way to Health
Maine clinic allows low-income residents to do yard work or other labor in exchange for medical help
by Al-Jazeera

*You have to ask why the US is one of the only “developed” nations where this even needs to be considered, don’t you?

http://www.commondreams.org/video/2012/01/09
.

Occupiers Target ‘Mayor 1% Emanuel’s’ Anti-Protest Ordinance
Occupy Rogers Park, Occupy the South Side campaign against Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel’s NATO/G-8 ordinance; “This measure is a permanent attack on public protest in the City of Chicago.”
by CommonDreams.org

*The winds of chains blow through ChiTown

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/09-3
.

The Gospel of the Penniless, Jobless, Marginalized and Despised
by Chris Hedges

*I think there’s an analogy between Cone’s description of the redemptive power of black folks’ faith in the face of overwhelming oppression, and the role of our humanity in confronting what is very likely a hopeless struggle against the destruction of the conditions that make our existence possible.

The connection is that the ultimate goal is not success in the struggle, but in the realization of our moral selves through that struggle.  That is something no oppressor can deny us.  It is wholly contingent on our actions, individually and collectively.

If by our acts we can justly claim our humanity, then whatever the future holds, we can honestly say we have won.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/09
.

Corporations Hate Taxes, So They Let the Children Pay
by Paul Buchheit

*A literal textbook case of child abuse

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/09-3
.

Witness Against Torture
Over Fifty Citizens on Ten Day Fast for Justice Carry Guantanamo Cell to President Obama’s Front Door
Commit to Maintaining a 92-hour Vigil Until January 11, Tenth Anniversary of Guantanamo

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/09
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
Crude Tragedy: Nigeria Repression and Austerity Lead to General Strike

*This illustrates the insanity of the profit system.

Nations like Nigeria have resources which, even if developed for their peoples’ benefit, will speed our descent into the hell on world we’re rushing toward, yet what else are they to do?

We have to unravel this Gordion knot, and move to a cooperative, money-free model that doesn’t force us into these damned if we do, damned if we don’t situations.

http://www.accuracy.org/release/crude-tragedy-nigeria-repression-and-austerity-lead-to-general-strike/
.

FAIR Blog
If PBS Is Afraid of Moyers, Maybe It Needs a New Slogan

*We shouldn’t put Moyers – or anyone else, for that matter – on a pedestal, but regardless, “PBS” can only stand for one thing today:

Pablum
Before
Substance

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/09/if-pbs-is-afraid-of-moyers-maybe-it-needs-a-new-slogan/
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Drones, Asia and Cyber War: Pentagon Shifts Priorities in New Review; Budget Still Exceeds Bush Era

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/9/drones_asia_and_cyber_war_pentagon

Death of Private Danny Chen: Military Admits Chen was Target of Race-Based Hazing on Daily Basis

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/9/death_of_private_danny_chen_military

As Arizona Remembers Tucson Shooting, Virginia Tech Massacre Survivor Calls for New Gun Control

*I think the Second Amendment has no relation to the nature of arms ownership today.  It’s an anachronism from a bygone time.

That said, the question of whether we should be able to own a gun isn’t straightforward.  Certainly guns do far more harm than good.  How many times have persons actually defended themselves or others using them, versus the murders, suicides, woundings and accidents their presence makes inevitable?

Does that mean they should be banned, or should they be allowed, but owners subject to stringent regulation, including thorough background checks and training?

My reading of the past history – and the present reality – of gun violence in this country leads me toward the former answer.  Even with effective regulation, in a society in which violence of all types is a defining characteristic, whatever benefit that may occasionally be derived will still be far outweighed by the damage done.

In such a society, I don’t think the two can be separated.  The only solution is to confront the causes of violence, and end the fear that induces us to arm ourselves.

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/9/as_arizona_remembers_tucson_shooting_virginia

1/6

BlackRock’s Surprising Reach into the US Economy
by Eileen Appelbaum
CEPR Blog

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/06
.

The Toll of Austerity: Eurozone Unemployment Hits New Record
Youth joblessness at 3.3 million in the eurozone
by CommonDreams.org

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/06-0
.

Florida Proposed Abortion Ban Would Put Doctors In Prison for Life
by Robin Marty
RH Reality Check

*Credo of the “pro-life”, safety net slashers

“If anyone’s gonna kill those babies, it’s gonna be us”

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/06-2
.

Ex-Commander of Guantanamo Prison: ‘Close It’
After Ten Years, Disparate Voices Call for Guantanamo Closure
by CommonDreams.org

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/06-1
.

Climate-Related Severe Weather Made 2011 Costliest Year on Record: Reports
2011 Disasters Make it Costliest Year on Record
by CommonDreams.org

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/06-6
.

The Cheery Jobs Report That Isn’t: Outlook Still Dismal
The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities: Almost 24 million people are unemployed or underemployed.
by CommonDreams.org

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/06-4
.

Veterans for Peace See Costs of War Continuing
Michael Jacobsen, Evan Knappenberger, and Carole Edrehi

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/06-5
.

California Nurses Association/National Nurses United (CNA/NNU)
Nurses to Join Call for Healthcare for the 99% in Monday Rallies
Actions in Sacramento, Los Angeles to Challenge Insurance Giants, Seek Passage of Bill to Extend Guaranteed Care to All Californians

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/06-6
.

Public Citizen Applauds Obama Administration’s Continued Efforts to Reduce Teen Smoking; Appeal of Trade Pact Ruling Necessary First Step
Statement of Todd Tucker, Research Director, Public Citizen’s Global Trade Watch

*It always rankles when groups like Public Citizen “applaud” gummint actions like this, regardless of whatever benefits (often limited and transitory) they may have for the public.

You don’t thank a burglar for leaving your stereo behind.  You want him arrested for the things he took with him.

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/06-4
.

FAIR Blog
When You Take Murdoch’s Leftovers, You Get Murdoch’s Sleaze

*Birds of a feather

Schlock together

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/06/when-you-take-murdochs-leftovers-you-get-murdochs-sleaze/

Action Alert: NYT Misinforms on Iran Crisis

*The truth is the first casualty of war

Long before the first shots are fired

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/06/action-alert-nyt-misinforms-on-iran-crisis/
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
Money in Politics: Citizens United Setback in Montana; Gingrich Hoisted on Own Petard

http://www.accuracy.org/release/money-in-politics-citizens-united-setback-in-montana-gingrich-hoisted-on-own-petard/
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Deportation of U.S. Teen to Colombia Latest Failure of Immigration System

*Don’t you imagine there were those within the ICE who knew this was wrong, who would have done something, but didn’t act for fear of the repercussions?

What does that tell you about the true purpose of the system?

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/6/deportation_of_us_teen_to_colombia

1/5

Indiana Workers Stand against the ALEC Agenda and the Anti-Labor Bill Called the “Right to Work” (for Less)
by Lisa Graves

*Poison pastries from the cookie cutter from hell

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/05-11
.

Durban’s Climate Debacle
by Janet Redman

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/05-8
.

Secrets of Empire And Self-Deceptions Of Partisans
A howling defiance into the darkness of the corporate state night
by Phil Rockstroh

*Do we have the bus fare to travel from the ridiculous to the sublime?

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/05-2
.

Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR)
Data Suggest Long-term Unemployment Substantially Higher than Official Level

*The bitter taste of a numbers fudge

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/05-4
.

Broad Coalition Opposes NDAA and Calls on President Obama to Keep His Promise and Shutter Guantanamo Bay Now
Groups will mark 10th anniversary of first detainees imprisoned at Guantanamo Bay with rally, human chain starting at White House; military, legal, religious and 9/11 families among speakers’ list

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/05-0
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Citizens United Backlash Grows from Cali. to NYC Urging Congress to Overturn Corporate Personhood
Occupy New Hampshire Protester Takes Romney to Task for Declaring “Corporations Are People”

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/5/citizens_united_backlash_grows_from_cali

As Statehouse Row Erupts over GOP Bill, Indiana Reps Debate Curbs on Right to Organize Unions

*It’s truly inspiring, the level of respect and collegiality reflected here.

Jesus H. Christ …

But even if he couldn’t bring himself to call Friend on his baldfaced lie about the intent of the bill, at least Battles did make clear the impact of right-to-work laws in the employee paradises of the South and West.

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/5/as_statehouse_row_erupts_over_gop
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
Is the Military Budget Really Being Cut?

*Taking a nail clipper to Godzilla

http://www.accuracy.org/release/is-the-military-budget-really-being-cut/

1/4

Ron Paul Would Allow ‘Open Season’ on Union Organizers
by Mike Elk
In These Times

*Why does the old union hymn, “Which Side Are You On?”, float up from my brainpan?

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/04-5
.

Speeding Up Security: The TSA Wants to Screen Before They Scan
by Lena Groeger
ProPublica

*Fly the friendly skies

For a fee

(Oh, and forfeiting your privacy rights)

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/04-4
.

States Take On Citizens United
Montana legal ruling a possible game-changer for states; California lawmakers introduce legislation to overturn Citizens United
by CommonDreams.org

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/04-0
.

Forced Military Testing in America’s Schools
by Pat Elder

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/04-0
.

A Bill of Rights for Occupied Communities
A bill of rights that protects the rights to people and nature, but removes them from corporations? Your community could be next.
by Thomas Linzey and Jeff Reifman

*It doesn’t go far enough – very little does – but I thought it a concept worth consideration

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/04-7
.

Super PACs Are Super Ruining Our Democracy
by Lisa Graves

*They pay the bills

We pay the price

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/04-13
.

Cornucopia Institute
Wholesale Approval of Genetically Engineered Foods
Obama Administration Disappoints/Angers Public
Agent Orange Herbicide Ingredient Would be Widely Used

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/04-3
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Santorum’s Emergence Signals Divided GOP Base While Paul Gains from Dems’ Disenchantment with Obama

*I hope Fallon’s speaking for himself.  If alliances with pick-your-prejudice Tea Baggers and support for a heartless bastard like Paul is the direction taken by Occupy, they can head off that way without me, I tell you what.

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/4/santorums_emergence_signals_divided_gop_base

1/3

Exposed: The Military’s Freakiest ‘Non-Lethal’ Weapon Ideas
by Katie Drummond
Wired.com/Danger Room

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/03-5
.

TransCanada Whistleblower: Keystone XL Pipeline Not Safe
by Mike Klink

*Pipe dreams

And nightmares

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/03
.

The End of War for Whom?
by Sarah Lazare

*A moving piece on the spoilage of war

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/03-7
.

Debacle! Iraq, Afghanistan and the End of US Supremacy
How Two Wars in the Greater Middle East Revealed the Weakness of the Global Superpower
by Tom Engelhardt

*A wounded beast is at its most dangerous

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/03-4
.

National Priorities Project
Federal Money Keeps Iowa, New Hampshire Afloat
National Priorities Project examines federal money in state budgets, and direct federal support to individuals.

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/03
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
Santorum on Iran: Ignorance or Lies?

*It’s a moot question, isn’t it?

Since when did the facts figure into someone like Santorum’s actions?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/26333/

Occupy Iowa Caucuses

*Democrats appropriate the talk

And arrest the walk

http://www.accuracy.org/release/occupy-iowa-caucuses/
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Super PACs, Occupy Iowa Protests and a Surging Rick Santorum: Iowa GOP Caucus Begins 2012 Race

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/3/super_pacs_occupy_iowa_protests_and

“Pity the Billionaire”: Thomas Frank on the “Unlikely Comeback of the Right” Ahead of Iowa Caucus

*It’s hard to listen to the silliness regarding what Obama “could do”, when no one with a lick of sense thinks he’ll do anything other than what his oligarchical backers tell him to.  He’ll pull out the “Hope and Change” ™ playbook from 2008, and sadly some will fall for it yet again, and he’ll most likely win by default, then get back to the business of running the economy, the nation and the planet over the cliff.

But what do you expect from someone like Frank – by no means an exception, of course – who reveres FDR as this progressive icon, rather than the savior of capitalist bacon.  I’d imagine many industrialists and bankers were no friends of his, but others understood that a change had to happen, to stave off true revolt, and quietly backed his policies.

For that not be acknowledged, on a show billed as “the exception to the rulers”, indicates just how ill-served we all too often are by “independent media”.

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/3/pity_the_billionaire_thomas_frank_on
.

FAIR Blog
New Audio of Hannity’s Homophobic History

*Isn’t it interesting how the perverts are often so obsessed with “perversion”?

per·vert (vt)

1. lead somebody away from good: to lead somebody or something away from what is considered good, normal, moral, or proper
2. misinterpret or distort something: to misinterpret or distort something such as a piece of text
3. use something improperly: to use something incorrectly or improperly

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/03/new-audio-of-hannitys-homophobic-history/

Time Cheers the Drone War

*There’s a certain twisted (What else?) logic to this.

You name “The Protester” Person of the Year …

Then gush about what increasingly will be used to provide “essential
info” on them.

See how nicely it fits?

Just like an orange jumpsuit.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/03/time-cheers-the-drone-war/

Grading George Will on Student Loan Debt

*Would Will be willing to share his intel on this college-to-career pipeline, where everyone who graduates immediately moves into a well-paying job?

There are a hefty number of unemployed college grads who’d be grateful for the info.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/03/grading-george-will-on-student-loan-debt/

Pentagon Investigates Pentagon Pundits Scandal

*A brass band plays in the echo chamber

Drowning out the death rattles

http://www.fair.org/blog/2012/01/03/pentagon-investigates-pentagon-pundits-scandal/

1/2

Ohio Fracking Wells Closed After Earthquakes
by CommonDreams.org

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/01/02-2
.

Obama’s Only Friend Left?
by Russ Baker

*With friends like these

Is it any wonder who’s the enemy?

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/02-6
.

End of the Pro-Democracy Pretense
by Glenn Greenwald

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/02-1
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On Anniversary of Gaza War, We Will Remember IDF Soldiers Who Destroyed Palestinian Families
On the third anniversary of Operation Cast Lead, we must recall the other, nameless soldiers, guided by the spirit of the army’s top brass.
by Amira Hass

*I remember a powerful work by editorial artist Tony Auth from 1982 of the spirit of a Holocaust survivor looking on in horror as Israel invaded Lebanon.

Thirty years on, and his devastation remains.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/02-5
.

The NDAA’s Historic Assault on American Liberty
By signing into law the NDAA, the president has awarded the military extraordinary powers to detain US citizens without trial
by Jonathan Turley

*Do you look good in orange?

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2012/01/02-7
.

Obama Crowned Himself on New Year’s Eve
by David Swanson

*Now we know the Newspeak definition of “flexibility”

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/72/868
.

The Euro Crisis in 7 Simple Charts: They’re telling you a real pack of lies
by John Weeks

*Any Keynesian “fix” within the context of the current system is superficial, as it can only ameliorate its unjust effects, not eradicate them.

But Weeks’ exposure of the propaganda justifying austerity is quite valuable.

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/81/866
.

Crackpot Anti-Islam Activists, “Serial Fabricators” and the Tale of Iran and 9/11
by Gareth Porter

*The fact is, the facts can’t speak for themselves.

Someone has to speak them – clearly, loudly, and consistently – for them to be truly heard.

And that has no relation to the function of the corporate media, does it?

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/92/865
.

Beyond Nuclear
Nuclear Regulatory Commission Agrees to Public Request to Review Dangerous Vents on US Fukushima-Style Reactors and Lack of Emergency Power for Cooling Waste Pools

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2012/01/02-0
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Year of Global Uprisings, from the Arab Spring to Occupy Wall Street: A Special Look Back at 2011

*A year to remember

An obligation we can’t forget

http://www.democracynow.org/2012/1/2/year_of_global_uprisings_from_the

‘Terrible’ and Plenty of It: The Oil That Comes in from the Cold
by Humberto
Inter Press Service

*All the fuel we need

To run ourselves right over the cliff

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/30-4
.

Has America’s Stolen Election Process Finally Hit Prime Time?
by Bob Fitrakis and Harvey Wasserman

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/30-2
.

Let Your Life Be a Counter-Friction to Stop the Machine
by Jennifer Browdy de Hernandez

*We must ask ourselves

Should we break immoral laws

Or allow immoral laws to break us?

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/30-3
.

2011 “Are You Serious?” Awards
by Conn Hallinan

*That’s the insane reality of all this

These schmenges are serious

Deadly serious

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/30-0
.

In Bahrain’s Hour of Peril, Where Does the U.S. Stand?
by William Fisher

*Playing “Risk” with people’s lives

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/100/863
.

Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR)
Center for Constitutional Rights and Nobel Peace Prize Winner Condemn Plan to Allow Yemeni President Entrance Into U.S.
Nobel Laureate and Human Rights Activists Urge Obama Administration Not to Permit Brutal Dictator Responsible for Recent Killings of Hundreds of Peaceful Protestors to Enter United States

*Give us your vicious, your venal, your arrogant murderers yearning to escape justice

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/30-0
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Scott Olsen, U.S. Vet Wounded at Occupy Oakland, on Recovery, Protests, Iraq and Bradley Manning

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/30/scott_olsen_us_vet_wounded_at

Election Fraud Galvanizes Russian Opposition, Communist Party 20 Years After Soviet Union’s Collapse

*Cohen’s correct about the complicated nature of the situation, but I’d reserve judgment on the accuracy of what he relates here until I hear other views, considering his connections with vanden Heuvel and Gorbachev.

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/30/election_fraud_galvanizes_russian_opposition_communist

12/29

FDA Draws Criticism After U-Turn on Antibiotics in Animal Feed
Environmental groups dismayed after agency drops long-held plan to regulate use of human antibiotics fed to healthy animals
by Karen McVeigh
The Guardian/UK

*This sums up “Hope and Change” ™ about as well as anything, doesn’t it?

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/29-10
.

Corporate Monopolies ‘May Dominate Green Economy’
by SciDev.net

*”Going green” means only one thing to these bastards

And that’s getting more of it

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/29-8
.

Occupy Geeks Are Building a Facebook for the 99%
by Sean Captain
Threat Level Blog/Wired

*Creating a shared cyberspace

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/29-2
.

The Return of Waterboarding?
by Robert Pallitto

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/29
.

‘Repeat After Me: The United States Is Not an Imperialist Country—Oh, and Don’t Get Emotional About War’
by Bill Bigelow

*An occupation of land

And of memory

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/29-5
.

Time for Supreme Court to Weigh in on Forced DNA Collection
by Rebecca Jeschke

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/29-2
.

Someday I Want to Own a Yacht
by Matt Hern

*Changing the narrative from “what I want”

To “what we need”

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/29-8
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Syrian Activist Speaks Out from Hiding as Arab League Mission Fails to Slow Deadly Crackdown

*I need to know more about the motivations behind the Arab League mission.  Obviously it has nothing to do with protecting the people.

And, as always, understanding how the US seeks to take advantage of the situation is vital to assessing how folks here should respond to the horrors in Syria.

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/29/syrian_activist_speaks_out_from_hiding

North Korea’s New Leader Kim Jong-un Inherits Father’s Nuclear Legacy & Country’s Uncertain Future

*I’m not sure how much stock to put into Cumings’ analysis – e.g., his focus on a factor like these leaders’ appearance seems odd to me – but perhaps there’s some intel which will prove useful in conjunction with information from other sources.

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/29/north_koreas_new_leader_kim_jong

Tucson Orders Closure of Mexican-American School Program as Ethnic Studies Faces Nationwide Threat

*Deep South by Southwest

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/29/tucson_orders_closure_of_mexican_american

12/28

Oh, Canada’s Become a Home for Record Fracking
by Nicholas Kusnetz
ProPublica

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/28-10
.

Occupy Our Food
Text by Peter Rothberg / Video by Anthony Lappe
The Nation

http://www.commondreams.org/video/2011/12/28-0
.

Occupy Everywhere – But Not at the Mall
by Jen Schradie

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/28-5
.

Equality Must Be the Legacy of the Arab Spring
If minority rights are not protected, they will be like loose threads that can be pulled to unravel these new democracies
by Rachel Shabi

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/28-2
.

Oakland Institute
Eight Myths and Facts About AGRISOL Energy in Tanzania
US Ambassador Challenged on Spurious Claims of Benefits that AgriSol’s Land Deal Would Bring to Tanzania

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/28
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Author Russell Banks on Writing Through the Voices of Outcasts, Criminals and Revolutionaries

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/28/author_russell_banks_on_writing_through

Alaa Abd El Fattah, Egyptian Blogger and Critic of Military Regime, Speaks Out After Months in Jail

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/28/alaa_abdel_fattah_egyptian_blogger_and

12/27

These are links to a podcast of a radio program I recently did on the University of Wisconsin-Madison’s campus station.

I feel I could have done a helluva lot better.  Hopefully I’ll get another shot down the line.

http://tmiwithaldous.podbean.com/2011/12/23/tmi-12172011-occupy-at-three-months-pt-1-of-2/

http://tmiwithaldous.podbean.com/2011/12/23/tmi-12172011-occupy-at-three-months-pt-2-of-2/
.

Afghan Refugee Strategy A ‘Big Mistake’: UNHCR
by Agence France-Presse

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/27
.

Half of America In Poverty? The Facts Say It’s True
by Paul Buchheit

*Do the math

And then let’s change the equation

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/27-0
.

2011’s Big Wins – Brought to You by Women
by Yifat Susskind

*It’s a girl thing

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/27-9
.

Support Attracted by Ron Paul Sends Chills
by Tony Norman

*The company he keeps

For decades

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/27-5
.

Women are the Biggest Losers: Reflecting on the War in Iraq
by H. Patricia Hynes

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/27-8
.

Vote Obama – If You Want a Centrist Republican for US President
Because Barack Obama has adopted so many core Republican beliefs, the US opposition race is a shambles.
by Glenn Greenwald

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/27-10
.

Worldwatch Institute
12 Simple Steps for Going Green in 2012
As we ring in the new year, here are twelve steps that we can all take to reduce our impact on the environment

*Mostly no-brainers, from both a self-interested and altruistic standpoint, which is a good thing, because we’re going to need all the brainpower we can muster to have any chance of surviving the mess greed has made of this planet

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/27
.

Occupy Iowa Caucuses
Occupy Des Moines To Preempt January 3rd Iowa Caucus
“Occupy Des Moines has the first in the nation caucus now, not the political parties”

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/27-0
.

Witness Against Torture
Anti-Torture Activists to “Occupy” Washington, Jan. 2-12

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/27-1
.

Satellite Imagery Indicates Shell Spill May Be Worse Than Reported
by Emily Gertz
Talking Points Memo

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/26-0
.

Two Icons, Two Deaths, Two Worlds: The Media Simplified Them Both
by Danny Schechter

*The monochrome of manipulative propaganda

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/50/860
.

FAIR Media Advisory
Occupy the P.U.-litzers!

*You’ve tried ignoring, ridiculing, defaming and co-opting

But nothing gets rid of that nasty Occupy stain on the reputation of corporatism

What is a corpress to do?

http://www.fair.org/index.php?page=4451
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
U.S. Grants Entry to Yemen President as Arab Spring Protesters Demand Accountability, Regime Change

*I think what’s left out of this is that, like anticommunism before it, “counterterrorism” is a chimera meant to mask US aggression.

In the empire game, you can’t boogie without a boogeyman.

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/27/us_grants_entry_to_yemen_president

The War at Home: Militarized Local Police Tap Post-9/11 Grants to Stockpile Combat Gear, Use Drones

*It’s worrying that even critics of this police state of mind, so to speak, can seem to adopt similar attitudes.  Schulz talks of alternatives to force when dealing with protesters, but doesn’t mention the one just alternative …

Letting people exercise their First Amendment rights.

He seems to be saying that it’s a legitimate objective to effect a “decampment”.  It just should be done via “negotiation”, rather than using SWAT tactics.

Isn’t than akin to stating that lunch counter protesters and Freedom Riders really didn’t have a constitutional right to protest discrimination, but the police should have dealt with them more “rationally”?

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/27/the_war_at_home_militarized_local

Oil Slick from Massive Spill in Nigeria Threatens Coastline, May Be Largest Spill in a Decade

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/27/oil_slick_from_massive_spill_in

12/24

I just wanted to take a moment to wish everyone a holiday filled with humanity.  Whatever your view of it, it affords an opportunity to reflect on just why we’re here and what we can do to make our lives meaningful, and to realize that the only way we can do that is with each other’s help.

We’re all we’ve got.

If we work it right, we’re all we need.

12/23

The Best of Times and the Worst of Times, When It Comes to Healthcare
by Roger Bybee
In These Times

*Call it “sick pay”

And the sick pay

And pay

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/23-10
.

A Christmas Message From America’s Rich
by Matt Taibbi
Rolling Stone

*Pretty righteous piece, but when Taibbi says we don’t mind these bastards being rich or successful (read “rich”), he’s way off in my book.

They’re rich and successful at the expense of the rest of us.  That’s the only way they can be.  That’s how profit works.  You win, I lose.  I win, you lose.

In the end, which their “success” has brought us to, we’ll all lose, of course.

Try buying your way out of that one.

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/23-1
.

In Ad for Newsletter, Ron Paul Forecast “Race War”
by Mark Hosenball and Samuel P. Jacobs
Reuters

*”Oh, it’s all ancient history”, his supporters might say.

Just like the Crusades and the Inquisition.

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/23-12
.

Despite Obesity Crisis, Govt Slow to Rein in Fast Food Industry
by Elizabeth Whitman
Inter Press Service

*Living high off the fat of the land

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/23-9
.

The Champion of Painkillers
by Charles Ornstein and Tracy Weber
Pro Publica

*Fronting for Big Pharma

Take the money and run interference

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/23-11
.

I Am Sorry for the Role I Played in Fallujah
As a US marine who lost close friends in the siege of Fallujah in Iraq seven years ago, I understand that we were the aggressors
by Ross Caputi

*This is vital to read.  Caputi engages in no rationalizations.  He looks at his actions with utter honesty.

He puts the lie to the recent homages to US benevolence in Iraq, as the war “ends”.

His eyes are open.

Ours must be, as well.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/23-5
.

Amid War, Following Yonder Star Towards Peace
by Kathy Kelly

*السلام يكون معكم

Peace be with you

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/23
.

Friends of the Earth
Six Billion Dollar Subsidy for Dirty Corn Ethanol Defeated
Corn ethanol no longer a sacred cow; After long campaign, diverse coalition prevents renewal of blenders’ tax credit

*Corn for our tummies

Not our tanks

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/23-1
.

ACLU
Court Blocks Implementation of Arizona Law that Withholds Critical Resources for Women’s Health
State Law Withholds Resources from Organizations that Provide Abortion Referrals or Counseling

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/23-0
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
U.S. Troops Charged After Fellow GI, Hazing Victim Danny Chen Found Dead in Afghanistan

*This is sickening, needless to say, but it’s also extremely frustrating to see that so few in this country understand the nature of the military, that incidents like this are entirely predictable, and yet still there’s this idealized view of “service to the country”.

That Chen wanted to be a cop is another example of the wholesale ignorance regarding a corrupt and oppressive institution, don’t you think?

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/23/us_troops_charged_after_fellow_gi

As Bradley Manning Hearing Concludes, Military Prosecutors Say WikiLeaks Disclosures Aided al-Qaeda

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/23/as_bradley_manning_hearing_concludes_military

Newt Gingrich’s Campaign Resurgence Funded by Secretive Coterie of Super PACs, Wealthy Backers

*The money flows around and around the toilet bowl that is electoral politics, flushing our voice down the drain

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/23/newt_gingrichs_campaign_resurgence_funded_by

12/22

When Democracy Becomes Disposable
by Roger Bybee
In These Times

*Corporatizing the commons

The wealthy’s wet dream of “urban renewal”

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/22-7
.

Local Police Stockpile High-Tech, Combat-Ready Gear
by Andrew Becker and G.W. Schulz
Center for Investigative Reporting

*A police state of mind

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/22-6
.

Mothers Rise Against Nuclear Power in Japan
by Suvendrini Kakuchi
Inter Press Service

*You can’t fool mothers

And nature

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/22-1
.

Too Late to Contain Killer Flu Science, say Experts
by Steve Connor
The Independent/UK

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/22-3
.

Why America’s 99% Have Rebelled
by Mark Engler

*Changing the narrative by telling our stories

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/22-6
.

What If We Occupied Language?
by H. Samy Alim

*Language is a virus

And, potentially, a cure

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/22-8
.

Prism Break: Seeing Beyond the Shadows on the Walls Around Us
by Randall Amster

*You can’t fight what you can’t see

Nor can you build what you can’t imagine

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/22
.

Governor Cuomo Is Still Governor One Percent
by Eric Alterman

*A “liberal” education in sophistry

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/22-9
.

‘Ag Gag’: Why Whistleblower Suppression Laws Are A Bad Idea
by Bruce Friedrich

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/22-5
.

ACLU
Federal Court Blocks Major Parts of South Carolina’s Anti-Immigrant Law

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/22-0
.

FAIR Blog
New York Times Finds Noam Chomsky Fit to Print

*”[A] prominent source of intellectual inspiration for President Hugo Chávez” …

What’s a corpress quoting of Chomsky without a little redbaiting?

I guess the answer to that is, “Pretty damn unlikely.”

http://www.fair.org/blog/2011/12/22/new-york-times-finds-noam-chomsky-fit-to-print/
.

FAIR Media Advisory
2011 P.U.-litzers: Journalism That Doesn’t Pass the Smell Test

*Something’s rotten in the State of Denial

http://www.fair.org/index.php?page=4449
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
Christianity and Occupy Wall Street

*WWJD?

Ask the money changers

http://www.accuracy.org/release/christianity-and-occupy-wall-street/
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
NATO Forced to Admit Air Strikes Killed Dozens of Libyan Civilians, Contradicting Initial Denials

*Of course, this was supposed to be strictly a “no fly zone” operation, wasn’t it?  And, of course, if you bomb in civilian areas you’re going to kill civilians, regardless of your “intent” to avoid doing so.

Left out of this is the fact that the Times and the corpress en masse essentially accepted NATO assurances at the time, didn’t they?

So we’re talking SOP for both NATO and the corporate media, aren’t we?

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/22/nato_forced_to_admit_airstrikes_killed

With Indefinite Detention Measure, Has Congress Also Expanded Rendition of U.S. Citizens Abroad?

*Big Brother gets a new toy for Xmas

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/22/with_indefinite_detention_measure_has_congress

Ariz. Sheriff Joe Arpaio: Mounting Storm of Anti-Latino Bias, Prisoner Abuse, Sex-Crimes Negligence

*The ghost of Bull Connor has retired to Arizona

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/22/ariz_sheriff_joe_arpaio_mounting_storm

12/21

Conflict Minerals Law Hold-up Threatens Lives in DR Congo
by Amanda Wilson
Inter Press Service

*When you hear McDermott speak of “honest profit”, you have to look askance at just how far these measures will go to truly promote justice, don’t you?

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/21-10
.

In Haiti, Sweatshops Open For Business
by Correspondents*
Inter Press Service/Haiti Grassroots Watch

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/21
.

Season’s Greetings From the Climate Change Deniers at Fox News
by Media Matters

*The forecast:

Clouded logic, with a 100% chance of snow jobs

http://www.commondreams.org/video/2011/12/21-0
.

Break Up Bank of America Before it Breaks Us
by Mary Bottari

*Bailing out

The banks get the parachutes

We’re in freefall

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/21-5
.

The United Nations Must Face Up to the Disaster It Caused in Haiti
Despite overwhelming evidence, the UN has still not taken responsibility for the cholera disaster in Haiti
by Mark Weisbrot

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/21-3
.

Do Private Military Contractors Have Impunity to Torture?
by Laura Raymond

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/21-2
.

Public Citizen
Buying Insider Trading Information From Congress – and Getting Rich
Congress Must Prohibit ‘Political Intelligence Consultants’ – as Well as Themselves – From Congressional Insider Trading

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/21-19
.

FAIR Blog
CBS, Panetta and (Hypothetical) Iranian Nukes

*I’d be curious to know how Paul responded to the followup.  The assumption here is that if Iran had a nuclear weapon, it would be “destabilizing” to the region.

The reality is that such a weapon could only be of use in a defensive posture, to deter the possibility of military action against it.

The only sane solution is to rid the world of these abominations.  The US blocks that at every turn, so we’re forced into these contortions in an attempt to figure out how to keep untold numbers of fellow human beings from being killed.

It’s maddening, but it’s necessary, if we’re to take our duty to humanity seriously.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2011/12/21/cbs-panetta-and-hypothetical-iranian-nukes/

ABC’s Bogus Big Government Debate

*If Ryan and Will comprise the right wing of that bird, and Frank and Reich the left …

It’s in for one hell of a nosedive.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2011/12/21/abcs-bogus-big-government-debate/
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Bradley Manning’s Defense Strategy on Display as Military Prosecutors Rest Case in Pretrial Hearing

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/21/bradley_manning_defense_strategy

Iraq Combat Veteran Dan Choi Forcibly Ousted, Barred from Bradley Manning Hearing at Ft. Meade

*Choi sees an ideal of military service that has never existed in reality.  His view is akin to that of many Americans who decry the sins committed in the name of the nation, because to them those crimes are in direct opposition to what the nation stands for.

I don’t think history supports either view.

One day I hope the facts will.

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/21/iraq_combat_veteran_dan_choi_forcibly

In Exiting Iraq, U.S. Military Discards Trove of Found Documents on 2005 Haditha Massacre of Iraqis

*McGirk wants to paint this incident, and this war, as some sort of aberration, in which the basic instincts of “good, ordinary Americans” were perverted.

But from the massacres of Native Americans, to those of Vietnamese, to today’s horrors in Afghanistan, this is precisely what war, American style, has always been.

But to acknowledge that would crumble the facade of American exceptionalism, and so the pretense of something having “gone wrong” is employed to keep it propped up.

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/21/in_exiting_iraq_us_military_discards

12/20

Europe Moves to Block Trade in Medical Drugs Used in US Executions
New export controls will further limit the ability of states already facing severe shortages of sedatives used to kill prisoners
by Ed Pilkington
The Guardian/UK

*Dear Misleader wants more drugs for death, while drugs for life are kept from those in need by the greed of those he serves.

That he could be considered the lesser of two evils shows just how evil this system truly is, doesn’t it?

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/20-6
.

Argentina Shows World How to Beat the Crisis
by Marcela Valente
Inter Press Service

*The political freedom the people seek cannot be disconnected from the economic system.  While Argentina may now have a “kinder, gentler” capitalist model, it will never deliver the dignity every person deserves, for that isn’t its purpose, is it?

True democracy cannot exist within a capitalist framework, which by definition is hierarchial and exploitative.

Those qualities are impervious to “reform”.  Our freedom can only be realized within the context of an economy working in harmony with both our inherent rights and the natural world around us.

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/20-2
.

This Bastardized Libertarianism Makes ‘Freedom’ an Instrument of Oppression
It’s the disguise used by those who wish to exploit without restraint, denying the need for the state to protect the 99%
by George Monbiot

*My freedom has no worth

If it comes at your cost

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/20-5
.

What a Busted Robot Airplane Tells Us About the American Empire in 2012 and Beyond
The Drone That Fell From the Sky
by Nick Turse

*Flying blind

Technically

And morally

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/20-7
.

Un-Happy Holidays for Seniors and the Disabled – Here’s Your Donut
by Donna Smith

*Poisoned pill profiteering

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/20-6
.

Worldwatch Institute
Global Natural Gas Consumption Regains Momentum
Rise in global consumption indicates renewed popularity of natural gas as an energy resource.

*And you thought Afghanistan was about “terrorism”

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/20-0
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
The Death of Kim Jong-il and the Future of U.S. Relations with the Two Koreas

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/20/the_death_of_kim_jong_il

North Korea’s Human Rights Record Assailed as Nation Prepares for Transition of Power

*As always, the “leaders” play the geopolitical game

And the people – the pawns – pay the price

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/20/north_koreas_human_rights_record_assailed

Police Crack Down on Occupy Wall Street Protesters, Journalists on
Movement’s 3-Month Mark

*What’s clear here is that the corpress could care less about “freedom
of the press”, even when it’s their reporters being attacked and
arrested.

They make a pretense of protest, but has any mainstream outlet made
this a major story?

It’s a rhetorical question.  And that’s all that’s being engaged in
with these pro forma complaints.

Empty rhetoric.

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/20/police_crackdown_on_occupy_wall_street

12/19

Occupy Education: Corporate School Reform Attracts Renewed Heat
The Occupy movement takes on neoliberal education reform and the Bloomberg Department of Education.
by Liza Featherstone
The Nation

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/19-11
.

The US is Blind to the Price of War That is Still Being Borne by the Iraqi People
by Gary Younge

*You can call it moral amnesia

But can you forget something you never bothered to remember?

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/19-3
.

Image of Unknown Woman Beaten by Egypt’s Military Echoes Around World
by Ahdaf Soueif

*Women on the front lines will no longer take a back seat

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/19-5
.

The False Equation: Religion Equals Morality
by Gwynne Dyer

*Religion doesn’t equal morality

And a quick check of history – and the news of the day – make it abundantly clear that morality sure as (there is no) hell doesn’t equal religion, does it?

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/19-2
.

Migrants’ Rights Are Human Rights! Take Local Police Out of Immigration Enforcement
by Bill Quigley and Sunita Patel

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/19-1
.

Christmas is No Time to Talk About War and Peace
by Jim Rigby

*A literal Xmas

Censoring the true meaning of a transcendent message

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/19-0
.

Witness Against Torture
Ten-Day DC Occupation Decries Ten Years of Injustice at Guantanamo, January 2012
Marking 10th Anniversary of Guantanamo, Events to Include 10-Day Fast, Courtroom Support for Activists Who Spoke Out in Congress, and a Human Chain from the White House to Congress

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/19
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
U.S.-Backed Egyptian Military Killing Pro-Democracy Protesters

http://www.accuracy.org/release/u-s-backed-egyptian-military-killing-pro-democracy-protesters/
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Bradley Manning Hearing: Alleged WikiLeaks Whistleblower in Military Court, 19 Months After Arrest

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/19/bradley_manning_hearing_alleged_wikileaks_whistleblower

Adrian Lamo, Bradley Manning Informant, Defends Role in Turning in Alleged WikiLeaks Whistleblower

*Read only if you have a high tolerance for slime-soaked self-justification.

Maybe Lamo’s auditioning for a job as a corporate PR flack?

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/19/adrian_lamo_bradley_manning_informant_defends

Bradley Manning Faces Life Sentence, While Criminals WikiLeaks Exposed Have Suffered No Consequences–Glenn Greenwald

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/19/bradley_manning_faces_life_sentence_while

Obama Prepares to Authorize Indefinite Detention of U.S. Citizens for First Time Since McCarthy Era–Glenn Greenwald on NDAA

*A promise of “change”

A reality of chains

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/19/obama_prepares_to_authorize_indefinite_detention

Egyptian Military Kills 14 Protesters, Attacks Journalists in Brutal Crackdown in Tahrir Square

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/19/egyptian_military_kills_14_protesters_attacks
.

FAIR Blog
Now It Can Be Told: Libyan Civilian Deaths

*So, any takers on whether this is pressed by the Times (or any other corpress outlet), or do you think it will be another one-off quickly buried under the mountain of propaganda that passes for “all the news that’s fit to print”?

There’s no doubt as to where I’ll place my wager.

Didn’t Chomsky once say something along the lines of being able to find most all of what you need to know by reading the NYT?  The point being that it won’t be splashed across the front page, but will appear mostly in the nooks and crannies if you’re diligent enough to search for it every damn day.

But the charge of journalism is to give us the facts every damn day, not just on those rare occasions when the corporate media decide to actually do their job, and then expect to be lauded for it.

Their “awards” are more ironic testament to their failings than emblematic of their earnest effort.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2011/12/19/now-it-can-be-told-libyan-civilian-deaths/

12/18

How Maliki and Iran Outsmarted the U.S. on Troop Withdrawal
by Gareth Porter
Inter Press Service

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/17-1
.

Walker Enlists Karl Rove Protégé to Promote New Protest Policy
by Brendan Fischer
PR Watch

*You can’t say she’s not qualified for the job

The real job

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/17
.

Top 100 Corporate Crime Stories of 2011
by Russell Mokhiber

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/17-2
.

After Durban: We Must Pull the Emergency Brake Before the 1 Per Cent Drive Us Off the Cliff
by Derrick O’Keefe

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/18-1
.

World Poses Growing Challenge to Generosity of Our Hearts
by Caroline Arnold

*Our humanity is our most valuable possession

And the one the system that runs this world values least

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/18-4
.

Big Shoulders in Chicago and Kabul
by Kathy Kelly

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/18-0
.

Immigrants Occupy! Broadening a Movement Culture
by Michelle Chen

*The occupational hazard of an incomplete circle

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/17

12/16

Climate Change May Modify Half Earth’s Plants
by Cosmos Magazine

*Grave new world

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/16-6
.

Desmond Tutu Urges Trinity Church to Allow Occupy Protester Camp
South African archbishop enters row over Wall Street church’s refusal to allow a winter encampment on its property
by Karen McVeigh
The Guardian/UK

*WWJD?

Consult with his lawyers?

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/16-11
.

How to Occupy the World
by Jason Hickel

*There’s a great deal of nostalgic ignorance regarding just how “The American Dream” ™ was at one point realized (and for only a portion of the population).

An essential factor was the exploitation of the people and resources of the global South, which continues to the present.

If we, and they – all of us – are to have any future, if will have to be fought for on a global scale.

Solidarity must be shoreless.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/16
.

Obama’s “Mission Accomplished”
Troops and Prisons Move, Wars and Torture Never Ends
by Ted Rall

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/16-3
.

Dante’s Divine Comedy: Banksters Edition
by William K. Black

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/16-7
.

Do We Need Health Insurance?
by Philip Caper

*True American exceptionalism

Making money off misery

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/16-9
.

How To Save Our Great Lakes
by Maude Barlow

*Telling the profitizers to go jump out of the Lakes

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/16-5
.

Earthjustice
Arctic Attack in House Funding Bill
Many anti-environmental provisions dropped from must-pass bill

*Toxic to the ecosphere

And to democracy

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/16-2
.

Bradley Manning Support Network
Veterans and Supporters of Bradley Manning Demonstrate at Gates of Fort Meade Hearing
Reinforcements Arrive from Occupy Wall Street

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/16-1
.

FAIR Blog
The New Anti-Corporate Populism Isn’t So New

*The contradictions in our own lives make it impossible for the corporate media to keep most of us blind and deaf to the reality of oligarchy and the servility of the political class to their interests.

Its function is to keep us dumb and dumbfounded as to just what to do about it.

Anger is one thing.

Productive action is quite another.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2011/12/16/the-new-anti-corporate-populism-isnt-so-new/
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
Congressional Deal on Backs of D.C. Residents

*A deadly deal they can’t refuse

Because they have no power to

http://www.accuracy.org/release/congressional-deal-on-backs-of-d-c-residents/
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
U.S. Withdrawal from Iraq: “In Terms of Destroying Iraq, It’s ‘Mission Accomplished’”

*Truth is the first casualty of war

Its death makes possible the rest

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/16/us_withdrawal_from_iraq_in_terms

The Costs of War: Tens of Thousands Dead, Billions Spent, and a Country Torn Apart

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/16/the_costs_of_war_tens_of

Iraqi Women’s Activist Rebuffs U.S. Claims of a Freer Iraq: “This Is Not a Democratic Country”

*The rotten fruits of “freedom”

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/16/iraqi_womens_activist_rebuffs_us_claims

Bradley Manning: Famed Whistleblower Daniel Ellsberg on Alleged WikiLeaks Soldier’s 1st Day in Court

*Paying a terrible price for acting with true honor and and a sense of duty

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/16/bradley_manning_famed_whistleblower_daniel_ellsberg

12/15

The Making of the American 99% And the Collapse of the Middle Class
by Barbara Ehrenreich and John Ehrenreich

*So how do we make this a class act, in more ways than one?

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/15-7
.

Recovering from Authoritarian Simpatico Syndrome (ASS): “Because the Cops Don’t Need You and Man They Expect the Same”
by Phil Rockstroh

Rockstroh makes essential points about the romanticizing of police and soldiers, even by many of their victims in the case of the former, and the element of free will in their acts of brutality.

At the same time, we do have the phenomenon of soldiers, at least, confronting their sins, and reclaiming their humanity.  It’s an infintesimal percentage, to be sure, but it does occur on a not infrequent basis.

Yet this isn’t the case with cops.  To my knowledge, no active duty officer has refused to follow orders, much less join the ranks of protesters, although the odd retiree has crossed lines.  Of course, when it comes to “routine” treatment of “the other” outside of political confrontations, we know the score, don’t we?

So what accounts for this difference?  Does the intensity of warfare play a role?  Are the few soldiers who open their eyes compelled to do so because their internal walls cannot stand against the naked inhumanity all around them?

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/15-2
.

The Spiritual Jackpot
by Robert C. Koehler

*The colonizing of consciousness

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/15
.

Food Industry Brings Bitter Harvest to Child Cocoa Laborers
by Michelle Chen

*Youth will be served

To satisfy the insatiable appetite of the profit machine

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/15-8
.

Free Press
Congress Must Not Trample Internet Users in Rush to Pass Copyright Legislation

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/15-7
.

FAIR Blog
Time Paints Paul Ryan as Deficit-Slashing Superhero

*A pretty shaky balance when one “person” gets a few condescending pseudoprops, while being undermined the rest of the Time …

And the other receives fully sincere kudos, and 24/7 support …

Wouldn’t you say?

http://www.fair.org/blog/2011/12/15/time-paints-paul-ryan-as-deficit-slashing-superhero/

Why WaPo Won’t Cover Ron Paul: He Looks Funny, Sounds Funny

*Looks and sounds “funny” …

That must be why Dubya wasn’t taken seriously.

Wait a minute …

I take Paul quite seriously, because there’s nothing funny about an ideology that advocates “freedom” over our collective responsibility to and for each other.

I guess that only applies if you believe in that whole Golden Rule thing, though.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2011/12/15/why-wapo-wont-cover-ron-paul-he-looks-funny-sounds-funny/
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
As Syria Toll Tops 5,000, Activist in Hiding Urges Global Action to Stop Assad Regime Crackdown

*This is the conundrum persons concerned with justice face in these situations, when a repressive regime has outlived its usefulness to the US and the West, and they seek to replace the current oligarchy with those they can continue to “work with”:

How do we support the struggle of the people, and not aid Western machinations?

It’s difficult, but I think a core priniciple has to be that we have to be utterly honest in our public assessment of the motives of the West, even while we might support some of the same actions, for vastly differing reasons.

I hope that makes some sense.

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/15/as_syria_toll_tops_5_000

Wave of Restrictive Voting Laws Prompts Federal Probes, Grassroots Activism Ahead of 2012 Elections

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/15/wave_of_restrictive_voting_laws_prompts

“Worker-Owners of America, Unite”: Will Cooperative Workplaces Democratize U.S. Economy?

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/15/worker_owners_of_america_unite_will
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
The Iraq War Disaster

*Jarrar hits the nail pretty squarely, don’t you think?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/the-iraq-war-disaster/

America Beyond Capitalism

*But just as a “green economy” controlled by corporations is no solution to climate change, neither is a “worker-owned” economy based on competition and profit, rather than cooperation and shared benefit, a solution to economic injustice, is it?

The engine needs to be replaced, as well as the driver.

http://www.accuracy.org/release/america-beyond-capitalism/

12/14

Soviet-Armed Iraq Switches Allegiance to US Weapons Systems
by Thalif Deen
Inter Press Service

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/14-9
.

Shock as Retreat of Arctic Sea Ice Releases Deadly Greenhouse Gas
Russian research team astonished after finding ‘fountains’ of methane bubbling to surface
by Steve Connor
The Independent/UK

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/14
.

Rush for Land a Wake-Up Call for Poorer Countries, Report Says
by Claire Provost
The Guardian/UK

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/14-2
.

Occupy Economics Departments
Conventional economists have a lot to answer for but will they listen?
by David Morris

*What I see are valid refutations of laissez-faire free market principles, and proposals for how to make the current system more equitable.

What I don’t see is a challenge to the profit system itself, and without that, economic justice is a mirage.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/14-0
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Russia’s Putin Faces Unprecedented Challenge as Tens of Thousands
Protest Electoral Fraud

*Included for the intel, but Harding’s blasé view of Navalny’s
immigrant bashing, his condescending and nonsensical remark about
“small” and “very small” Russian officials, and his foolish comment
about Westerners taking honest elections for granted (at least
informed Westerners) lead me to look elsewhere for more reliable
analysis.

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/14/russias_putin_faces_unprecedented_challenge_as

Corzine Grilled over MF Global Collapse After Witness Suggests
Knowledge of Misused Funds

*Kabuki theatre of the absurd

While in the real world, lives are devastated

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/14/corzine_grilled_over_mf_global_collapse

Egypt Heads to the Polls, Round II

http://www.democracynow.org/blog/2011/12/14/egypt_heads_to_the_polls_round_ii
.

FAIR Blog
Driving Out Politics From Privately Owned Public Space

*I was reading a transcript of a DEMOCRACY NOW! segment today dealing with the protests in Russia, and the guest stated that the people there were demanding what we in the West “take for granted.”

And I think about that, and beyond the prima facie evidence presented here that no sane person in the West should ever take our rights “for granted”, I also consider the literal meaning.

Who “grants” our rights to us?  Don’t we possess them by the mere fact of our existence?  Aren’t we all endowed by – however you want to say it; I’ll go with “our humanity” – with certain inalienable rights?

We aren’t required to petition any authority to grant us our rights.  They come as standard equipment.

We don’t have to “earn” them.

But we sure as hell have to fight for them.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2011/12/14/driving-out-politics-from-privately-owned-public-space/

A New Lowe in Advertiser Cowardice

*”Traditional values” …

Well, you can’t get much more traditional that racial and religious
hatred in these here United States.

Take it from an ol’ Suthin boy who grew up in apartheid Miss’ssippi,
not that things are much better these days.

Let’s hope this proves to be boycott bait.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2011/12/14/a-new-lowe-in-advertiser-cowardice/

12/13

FAIR Blog
For False Balance, WaPo Cites Phony Report on Vote Fraud

*If you’re looking for vote fraud, I can suggest a few state capitols

http://www.fair.org/blog/2011/12/13/for-false-balance-wapo-cites-phony-report-on-vote-fraud/
.

Military Spending is the Weakest Job Creator
by Miriam Pemberton

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/13
.

Making Repression Our Business: The Pentagon’s Secret Training Missions in the Middle East
by Nick Turse

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/13-3
.

Center for Biological Diversity
New Lease Sale Ignores BP Deepwater Horizon Disaster
Groups Challenge Lease Sale 218, Citing No Lessons Learned From Gulf Disaster

*No sea change

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/13-4
.

ACLU Files Lawsuit Challenging Wisconsin’s Unconstitutional Voter ID Law
Restrictive Photo Identification Requirement is Part of a Nationwide Effort to Suppress the Fundamental Right to Vote

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/13-2
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Occupy Protesters Shut Down Major West Coast Ports, Targeting Goldman Sachs

*Ironic that the ILWU prez spoke of “co-opting”, isn’t it, given labor “leadership”‘s attempt at same with Occupy?

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/13/occupy_protesters_join_to_shut_down

12/12

Newburgh Four: Poor, Black, and Jailed Under FBI ‘Entrapment’ Tactics
In June, four men were jailed for 25 years over a US terror plot. The FBI painted them as dedicated fanatics, but were they lured by the promise of cash from a fake informant?
by Paul Harris
The Guardian/UK

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/12-6
.

Blackwater 3.0: Rebranded ‘Academi’ Wants Back In Iraq
by Spencer Ackerman
Danger Room Blog/Wired

*What’s in a name?

Rebranding the branded

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/12-5
.

The 1% Election: How to Turn Election Year Into Election Life
Their Bread, Our Circus
by Tom Engelhardt

*An electoral collage of money and manipulation

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/12
.

Presenting America’s Ten Greediest of 2011
One puts on football pageants. Another makes mega millions on a virtual farm. They all remind us how much needs to change, economically and politically, in 2012 and beyond.
by Sam Pizzigati

*The avatars of avarice

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/12-2
.

A Tale of Two Deficit Charts
by Dean Baker

*There’s always been an honesty deficit

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/12-4
.

What a Difference an Occupation Makes
by Laura Flanders

*Moving to the ‘hood

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/12-3
.

Occupy the Food System
The world can feed itself, without corporate America’s science-experiment crops and expensive chemicals.
by Jim Goodman

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/12-0
.

Environmental Working Group (EWG)
Gas Drilling Doublespeak
Landowners Say Companies Kept Them in the Dark on Risks

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/12-0
.

Islamic Parties Win 75 Per Cent of Seats in Egyptian Elections 
by Esam Al-Amin 

*The author’s presentation of the forces at play, and how they interrelate

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/109/831
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Climate Activists: Durban Deal is “Very Weak” Agreement, Lacks “Ambition, Equity, Justice”

*The insanity of running out the clock when we’re behind

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/12/climate_activists_durban_deal_is_very

“Don’t Kill Africa”: Climate Activists Occupy Durban Talks Demanding Binding Emissions Cuts

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/12/dont_kill_africa_climate_activists_occupy

The Lost Decade: Bolivian Pablo Solón Decries Climate Deal Postponing New Emissions Cuts Until 2020

*Climate apartheid is a chimera.  Ultimately, no one will escape the catastrophe of climate change, no matter their wealth or power.

Any rational person would understand that.

But it appears no rational person has any say in the matter.

Unless we do all we can to force our voices to the fore.

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/12/the_lost_decade_bolivian_pablo_solon
.

FAIR Blog
Washington Post: Campaign Journalism or Campaign Advertising?

*These jokers are going to put satirists out of business.

It’s pretty damn hard to invent something more pathetic than this, isn’t it?

http://www.fair.org/blog/2011/12/12/washington-post-campaign-journalism-or-campaign-advertising/
.

FAIR Extra!
Steve Jobs and the Cult of the CEO
Like Da Vinci or the Dalai Lama—only better
by Peter Hart

*Hell is for “heroes”

If there’s any justice

http://www.fair.org/index.php?page=4439
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
Climate Talks Agreement a “Roadmap to Disaster”

*If this is the end of the world as we know it, let it be to the bangs of our outrage, and not the whimpers of our despair

http://www.accuracy.org/release/climate-talks-agreement-a-roadmap-to-disaster/

12/9

FAIR Extra!
Media Justice and the 99 Percent Movement
How net neutrality helped Occupy Wall Street
by Betty Yu

*The corpress can no longer ignore, at least to some extent, this movement.

So its aim now is to define it in as condescending and negative terms as possible.

Our ability to combat that lies largely in the use of independent and effective social media, so the struggle for net neutrality is vital to our success.

http://www.fair.org/index.php?page=4440
.

Wall Street Protesters Vow to Reoccupy on Movement’s Anniversary
Occupy Wall Street hopes call will re-energise movement after a series of evictions from New York to Los Angeles
by Karen McVeigh in New York
The Guardian/UK

*I think the occupation of physical space has to be seen as a direct action in itself, not separate from external action.  The effort to create an alternative model of society is a core goal of the movement, and you can’t do that without someplace for that model to exist, can you?

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/09-8
.

WalMart Heirs Have Same Net Worth As the Bottom 30 Percent Of Americans
by Pat Garofalo
ThinkProgress

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/09-6
.

Maine Farmer the Face of Organic Growers’ Fight Against Monsanto
by Kathryn Olmstead
Bangor Daily News (Maine)

*Sewing the seeds of resistance

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/09-1
.

Tis the Season to Be Jolly on Wall Street, Still
by Sam Pizzigati

*The profits of loss

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/09-3
.

Land of the Free, Home of the Hungry
Nowhere is the chasm between America’s political class and its working poor more vast than in the demand to cut food stamps
by Gary Younge

*Let them eat cake

If they can sneak into a bakery dumpster

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/09-2
.

Seattle WTO Shutdown ’99 to Occupy: Organizing to Win 12 Years Later
by David Solnit

*Useful intel, I’d say

See if you agree

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/09-4
.

Out of the Backyard: New Latin American and Caribbean Bloc Defies Washington
by Benjamin Dangl

*No panacea

But perhaps an ipecac

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/09-5
.

A Peaceful Warrior Lives On in Us
by Frida Berrigan

*I found this very moving.

It reminded me of my last visit with a dear friend who was dying of breast cancer, and of her spirit, which lives on in me and all those who were close to her.

She was a friend, and she was a comrade.

Whatever our differences among ourselves, however legitimate we deem them to be, let’s remember what binds us together in spirit, and let that spirit guide our actions.

In the end, we only have each other.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/09-0
.

The Sound of Food Sovereignty in Durban
by Karen Hansen-Kuhn

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/09
.

Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law
Civil Rights Groups Again Ask Government to Block South Carolina Voter ID Law
Coalition Calls the Law Racially Discriminatory; Asks Justice Department to Intervene

*Jim Crow on the wing

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/09-1
.

Congressman Dennis Kucinich
Kucinich: Protect Our Food Supply from Manufactured Crises

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/09-0
.

FAIR Blog
Joe Klein: Newt’s Kids-as-Janitors Plan Too Narrow

*The thing is, Klein ain’t stupid, is he?

He frames Gingrich’s ideas as benificence, omitting his large hand in perpetuating the dire conditions his supposed beneficiaries endure.

It’s a very old trick.  The slice of bread is feted, while the hoarding of the loaves is hidden from view.

In PR circles, I imagine it’s known as “the lie of largesse”.

http://www.fair.org/blog/2011/12/09/joe-klein-newts-kids-as-janitors-plan-too-narrow/

Why Is PBS Telling Us That Profit Is Journalism’s Friend?

*Can we just go ahead and make the name change now?

PBS

Profit
Before
Scruples

http://www.fair.org/blog/2011/12/09/why-is-pbs-telling-us-that-profit-is-journalisms-friend/
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
U.S. Publicly Shifts Climate Stance in Face of Widespread Criticism — Then Quietly Backtracks

*A 2020 vision is insane blindness

So what does that say about the US’ field of sight?

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/9/us_publicly_shifts_climate_stance_in

“Get It Done”: Urging Climate Justice, Youth Delegate Anjali Appadurai Mic Checks U.N. Summit

*Powerful words wasted on the blind, the deaf …

And the unforgivably dumb

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/9/get_it_done_urging_climate_justice

Obama Admin Denounced for “Startling Level of Obstructionism and Defeatism” on U.N. Climate Deal

Lauding “Collapse of Global Warming Movement,” Sen. Inhofe Tells U.N. Summit “You Are Being Ignored”

*Don’t you wish you could take all the climate deniers – and all those who say they “get it”, then make damn sure it doesn’t get done – and leave them on top of a melting glacier or in the middle of a drought-ridden savanna?

My humanity wouldn’t allow me to do that.

But I have to confess it does me good to imagine it.

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/9/obama_admin_denounced_for_startling_level

Developing Countries Call for Green Climate Fund Independent of Western Control

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/9/developing_countries_call_for_green_climate

Frustrated By Inaction, Youth Delegates Occupy COP 17 Plenary in Durban

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/9/frustrated_by_inaction_youth_delegates_occupy
.

Institute for Public Accuracy
Climate Disruption Talks and the Global 99%

*Apocalypse as a growth market

http://www.accuracy.org/release/climate-disruption-talks-and-the-global-99/

12/8

Used-Up Heroes
by Robert C. Koehler

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/08-0
.

My Occupy LA Arrest
by Patrick Meighan

*Meighan goes into literally excruciating detail, and I think it’s important to know just how this shit goes down.  Of course, some folks have had it much worse.

Please keep in mind who’s behind this – “liberal” mayors in many cases, and Dear Misleader’s “Homeland Security” caballistas.

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/08-3
.

Center for Biological Diversity
Proposed Obama Policy on Endangered Species Act Is Recipe for Extinction

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/08-6
.

DEMOCRACY NOW!
Mumia Abu-Jamal Spared Death Penalty After Prosecutors Drop 30-Year Bid for Execution

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/8/mumia_abu_jamal_spared_death_penalty

South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu Calls for Release of Mumia Abu-Jamal

*Sentenced to “life”

Can the irony be greater?

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/8/south_african_archbishop_desmond_tutu_calls

“I’m Scared for My Future”: Student Disrupts Speech by U.S. Climate Envoy Todd Stern in Durban

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/8/im_scared_for_my_future_student

Critics: Rich Polluters—Including U.S.—Should Face Sanctions for Rejecting Binding Emissions Cuts

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/8/critics_rich_polluters_including_us_should

Entrepreneur: Capitalism Will Save World from Climate Crisis to Preserve Markets for iPads, Coke

*If only the US Chamber of Commerce understood the magic of the market …

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/8/entrepreneur_capitalism_will_save_world_from

“His Nickname Is George W. Obama”: Leading Climate Change Denier Embraces U.S. Stance at U.N. Talks

*New horse

Old tricks

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/8/his_nickname_is_george_w_obama

Wanjira Maathai: U.S. Should “Shape Up or Get Out” at U.N. Climate Talks

http://www.democracynow.org/2011/12/8/wanjira_maathai_us_should_shape_up

12/7

In Crisis, The Rich Get Richer
World Inequality Rises Following Failed Economics
by A.D. McKenzie
Inter Press Service

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/07-1
.

Tennessee Family Home Burns While Firefighters Watch
by Eric Pfeiffer
Yahoo News

*Pay or pray

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2011/12/07-6
.

Time to Save the Post Office
by Ralph Nader

*Treating mail dysfunction

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/07-10
.

Why the International Climate Negotiations in Durban Matter for Women
by Mary Pittman and Kavita Ramdas

*Sistas are doin’ it for themselves

And everyone else

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/07-7
.

The Conservative Plan To End Inequality: Deny It
by Paul Buchheit

*Playing with the percentages

The 1% has plenty of company just down the block

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/07-3
.

How to Start Participatory Budgeting in Your City
by Maria Hadden and Josh Lerner

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/07-2
.

Black America at the Bottom
by Margaret Kimberley

*A horseshitter of a different color

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/07-6
.

Put the Fat Cats on a Diet: Stop Buying Tainted Food From Billion Dollar Corporations
It’s time for the Great Boycott of Big Food Inc.
by Ronnie Cummins

*Taking the bite out of their crimes

http://www.commondreams.org/view/2011/12/07-5
.

Pesticide Action Network North America (PANNA)
“Big 6” Guilty of Human Rights Violations
Citing Systematic Human Rights Violations, International Court Hands Down Verdict to Six Largest Pesticide Manufacturers

*Until the perps are jailed

The poisoning will prevail

http://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2011/12/07-17
.

NARAL Pro-Choice America
HHS Decision on Plan B® a Blow to Sound Science and Young Women’s Health
Obama administration’s decision at odds with medical experts, misses opportunity to help prevent teen pregnancy