Share this:

 

 

 

Hello

This site’s been created in the hope that knowledge is power, and the
certainty that ignorance is its antithesis.   It’s mainly a compilation
of information and insight from various sources that I thought worth
passing along.

I’ll be tossing in my overvalued two cents, as well (denoted
by asterisks).   That said, I’d like to think I’m smart enough to know
what I don’t know, and that I’ll make that clear when necessary.

I’m happy to hear from folks.   Disagreement is welcome, but only if
it’s civil.  You can be as vociferous as you wish, but personal attacks
will simply be flushed as soon as they’re apparent.

Let’s do the mensch thing.

Make sense?   If so, you can leave a comment here, or reach me via email at unlikelysource@gmail.com, on Twitter at @aspiringmensch, or at my Facebook page at https://facebook.com/unlikelysource.

And a note on DEMOCRACY NOW! posts:

I may be stating the obvious, but it’s a good idea to check the DN!
Headlines every weekday.

There’s a link to them at the top right of each segment I post, or of
course you can go directly to the program site at https://www.democracynow.org on those days when nothing is posted.

And in addition to what’s here, I occasionally receive responses to my comments at sites such as Common Dreams, The Real News Network and the FAIR Blog, which I reply to.

If you’re interested in those, just click on the page link and search on “Doug Latimer” in the comments section to read them.

Thanks for visiting.   I hope you’ll find it worth your while.

—————–

ADDED 10/27/11 —  THE SIGNS OF THE TIMES page, where I park aphorisms et alia that I think are worth their own separate space.

See if you agree.

—————–

5/10/15 — Lately, I’ve been including a good bit of health and nutrition intel here, and I do see it intimately related to the other issues extant.

The posts on the duplicity and venality of food and medical corps provide obvious parallels, but I also want to focus on what we can do to improve our health, as we can’t follow our principles as assiduously as we’re obligated to if we’re not in the best condition we can be.

That said, I want to be clear that I’m no expert in these fields.  I’m trying to learn, and unlearn, what I need to do to be healthy.  In doing so, I may wander down some dead ends.  I present this information with the entreaty that you accord it both serious consideration and scrutiny.

What makes seeming sense today may be disproved tomorrow.  What appears outlandish in the present could well be validated in the future.

I hope what I pass along will be of benefit to you.

—————–

* Do what your conscience demands

And your courage allows

And never be satisfied with the limits of either *

 

 

 

Advertisements

April 2018

 

4.20

‘Win for Science and Democracy’ as Court Rules California Can List Glyphosate as Probable Carcinogen
“Monsanto doesn’t get to tell California how to protect its people from dangerous chemicals or how to run the Prop 65 list”
by Andrea Germanos, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Putting the cap on Monsanto’s poison red pen

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/20/win-science-and-democracy-court-rules-california-can-list-glyphosate-probable

Memo Says Trump Suggested Journalists Be Raped in Jail To Make Them “Talk” and Comey Just Laughed
“Not just prison rape, but specifically sending journalists to prison with the goal of them being raped so they will give up sources”
by Jon Queally, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/20/memo-says-trump-suggested-journalists-be-raped-jail-make-them-talk-and-comey-just
—

Data Privacy Is a Human Right. Europe Is Moving Toward Recognizing That.
Mark Zuckerberg played dumb when Congress pressed him on privacy protections. But he should know better — the EU is already forcing his hand.
by Sarah St. Vincent

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/20/data-privacy-human-right-europe-moving-toward-recognizing
—

The Real News Network
Israeli Forces Kill 4 Palestinians, Injure 40 on Israel’s Independence Day
Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip continue to demonstrate even though they know they put their lives at risk because life in the “cage” that is Gaza is intolerable, says Ali Abunimah of The Electronic Intifada

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21627:Israeli-Forces-Kill-4-Palestinians%2C-Injure-40-on-Israel%27s-Independence-Day

New Student Movement Seeks to Change Hopkins from Within
A student lead group called Youth Against War and Racism is partnering with the community to lead a fight against Hopkins’ connection to government agencies like the CIA and end its role in military research

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21623:New-Student-Movement-Seeks-to-Change-Hopkins-from-Within

Korean Peninsula in Historic Peace Talks – Thanks to Activists, Not Trump
South and North Korea are considering a peace treaty after six decades of war. Simone Chun says this is the result of years of grassroots organizing and protests

*We have to be alert to the possibility that Killer Clown could blow all this up, in a fit of pique or due to a calculation that it’s in his best interest, claiming that he tried diplomacy, it failed, and now it’s back to “fire and fury”.

Place your bets …

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21613:Korean-Peninsula-in-Historic-Peace-Talks—Thanks-to-Activists%2C-Not-Trump

IMF Says 2018 Economic Outlook is Rosy, But Austerity is Still Good
The IMF just released a positive World Economic Outlook report for 2018. Still, in order to make sure that the outlook remains good, the IMF makes recommendation that would lead to recession, says CEPR’s Mark Weisbrot

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21619:IMF-Says-2018-Economic-Outlook-is-Rosy%2C-But-Austerity-is-Still-Good

Debunking the Myth of American Exceptionalism, with David Swanson
Anti-war writer and activist David Swanson discusses his new book, “Curing Exceptionalism”, and picks apart the chauvinistic idea that the United States of America is the greatest country on the planet

*Faking America Great

Again and Again and Again

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21607:Debunking-the-Myth-of-American-Exceptionalism%2C-with-David-Swanson
—

Petition
Save Mothers’ Lives by Reducing Maternal Mortality Rates in the US
by Rae Koch

https://www.change.org/p/u-s-congress-save-mothers-lives-by-reducing-maternal-mortality-rates-in-the-u-s
—

FAIR
Media Support US Violence Against Syria, but Long for More
by Gregory Shupak

*War is a farce that gives us meaning

https://fair.org/home/media-support-us-violence-against-syria-but-long-for-more

‘People Have to Strengthen the Laws Protecting the Water’
CounterSpin interview with Peggy Case on water rights
by Janine Jackson

https://fair.org/home/people-have-to-strengthen-the-laws-protecting-the-water

‘We Need to Change the Rules for When Police Can Shoot’
CounterSpin interview with Peter Bibring on excessive force law
by Janine Jackson

https://fair.org/home/we-need-to-change-the-rules-for-when-police-can-shoot

Public Radio’s McCarthyite Smear of Black Activists Shows Danger of Russia Panic
by Adam Johnson

*Guilt by assassination

https://fair.org/home/public-radios-mccarthyite-smear-of-black-activists-shows-danger-of-russia-panic
—

Democracy Now!
Earth Day 2018: Ending Plastic Pollution in the Oceans, Land & Our Bodies

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/20/earth_day_2018_ending_plastic_pollution

Web Bonus: Linda Villarosa on Black Maternal Health Crisis & America’s Hidden HIV Epidemic

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/20/web_bonus_linda_villarosa_on_black

4.19

From ‘Deeply Disappointing’ to ‘Disgusting,’ Heitkamp Draws Ire as First Democrat to Back Pompeo
Virtually ensuring Trump’s hawkish CIA director will become next secretary of state, North Dakota senator blasted for “vote she will not be proud of when she looks back on her career”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Never depend on a Democrat to do the right thing, unless it aligns with their coldly political calculus

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/19/deeply-disappointing-disgusting-heitkamp-draws-ire-first-democrat-back-pompeo

‘Beyond Comprehension’: In Just Two Years, Half of All Corals in ‘Forever Damaged’ Great Barrier Reef Have Died
Global warming, researchers warn, “is rapidly emerging as a universal threat to ecological integrity and function”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/19/beyond-comprehension-just-two-years-half-all-corals-forever-damaged-great-barrier

Facebook Wants to Be Better About Privacy, Just Not With These 1.5 Billion Users
The social media giant is changing its terms of service to put 70 percent of its users “out of reach” of the European Union’s sweeping new privacy law
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/19/facebook-wants-be-better-about-privacy-just-not-these-15-billion-users
—

West Virginia Teachers and the Return of Labor Feminism
In struggles led predominantly by women workers—whose labor has historically been both underpaid and undervalued—we’re seeing the return of efforts to build meaningful alternatives to corporate feminism
by Rachel Johnson

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/19/west-virginia-teachers-and-return-labor-feminism
—

Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR)
Mentally Ill Gitmo Detainee Seeks Medical Review
U.S. tortured him knowing history of psychosis

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/04/19/mentally-ill-gitmo-detainee-seeks-medical-review

Sierra Club
Trump’s New Ploy to Force Electricity Customers, Taxpayers to Bailout Uneconomic Coal and Nuclear Plants

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/04/19/trumps-new-ploy-force-electricity-customers-taxpayers-bailout-uneconomic-coal
—

The Real News Network
Global Warming’s Impact on Ocean Currents to Amplify Sea Level Rise
A new study shows that the Atlantic’s currents have weakened due to global warming and are closer to catastrophic collapse than any time in the last 1,600 years, which could cause rapid sea level rise on the East Coast of North America. One of the study’s lead authors explains

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21606:Global-Warming%27s-Impact-on-Ocean-Currents-to-Amplify-Sea-Level-Rise

Corbyn: Does Strike on Syria Justify Bombing Saudi Arabia over Yemen?
Leftist leader of Britain’s Labour Party Jeremy Corbyn said the US-UK-France missile strike on Syria was “legally questionable,” and its rationale could be used to justify bombing Saudi Arabia over its devastating war on Yemen

*Political courage is defined as evincing conscience, rather than calculation.

At least here, Corbyn clearly passes the test.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21617:Corbyn%3A-Does-Strike-on-Syria-Justify-Bombing-Saudi-Arabia-over-Yemen%3F

Lopez Obrador’s Lead Widens in Mexican Presidential Race Thanks to Trump
Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador’s (AMLO) lead in the presidential race has been growing steadily, despite receiving attacks from Mexico’s entire establishment, explains UNAM’s John Ackerman

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21598:Lopez-Obrador%27s-Lead-Widens-in-Mexican-Presidential-Race-Thanks-to-Trump
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
AUMF “Reform”: Codifying Perpetual War?

*A blank check from barren consciences

http://www.accuracy.org/release/aumf-reform-codifying-perpetual-war
—

FAIR
NYT: Don’t Be Progressive, Be a ‘Liberal’
by Jim Naureckas

*Liberalism can be defined as doing enough to avoid doing enough

https://fair.org/home/nyt-dont-be-progressive-be-a-liberal
—

Democracy Now!
Stunning Investigation Confirms Black Mothers and Babies in the U.S. Are in a Life-or-Death Crisis

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/19/stunning_investigation_confirms_black_mothers_and

4.18

Trump’s Corporate-Friendly NAFTA 2.0 Would Be Total Climate Disaster, Report Warns
“We cannot shift to a clean energy future if a corporate trade deal tethers us to the fossil fuel past,” says lead author of new trinational report
by Andrea Germanos, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/18/trumps-corporate-friendly-nafta-20-would-be-total-climate-disaster-report-warns
—

The Cult of Violence Always Kills the Left
And who has all the power, in terms of violence? Our means of violence is very little. The government’s means, the right wing’s means, are very great. So, we’ve got to adopt nonviolence.
by Chris Hedges

*Isn’t a blanket rejection of force in some way similar to the advocacy of its primacy?

I think of the Deacons for Defense and other armed defense groups during the “civil rights era”. Theirs was not a quest for “self expression”, but for self preservation, which is the right of every person – to defend themselves and others, with force if necessary.

Violence is a fearsome thing, and as illustrated here, can twist idealism into a self destructive idolatry of it. Its use requires immense self discipline and self awareness as to its potentially corrosive effect.

Armed revolution is a fantasy in these here United States.

Armed defense can be a necessity.

I’ve never owned a weapon, and don’t plan to, but if I had one, and the only way I could prevent “grievous bodily harm” or death to myself or another was to use it, I don’t think I would hesitate.

I also don’t think I’d ever be the same person after doing so.

Force can never be our weapon of choice

Only our final resort.

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/18/cult-violence-always-kills-left
—

Food & Water Watch
FDA Finds Rodent Infestation at Facility Affected by Massive Egg Recall
“This most recent Salmonella outbreak resulting in a massive recall is another example of how the ultra-consolidated factory farm system can have major consequences for food safety”

*Maybe if we got rid of the rats at the regulators …

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/04/18/fda-finds-rodent-infestation-facility-affected-massive-egg-recall
—

The Real News Network
The Perils of Being a Prosecutor and a Politician
Marilyn Mosby’s campaign office opened to both praise and protest last Saturday as she was assailed on one side by the supporters of Keith Davis Jr., who believe she is trying to wrongly imprison a man shot by police, and on the other by a former employee who believes she has allowed too many violent repeat offenders back on the streets to kill more Black men.
by Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21614:The-Perils-of-Being-a-Prosecutor-and-a-Politician

Defense Stocks Soar as Trump Wages War on Syria
Defense company stocks, such as those of Raytheon, Northrup Grumman, and Boeing, rose to unprecedented levels since the beginning of the year because of Tomahawk strikes on Syria and massive arms sales to the Middle East and to the Pentagon. Bill Black talks about the the companies and their profits

*It may be true that Raytheon’s product “works” in this instance (never mind the price), but consider all the boondoggles that litter the history of military budgets, and it’s evident that decisions by “respectable generals” aren’t based solely on the efficacy of the item being proposed for purchase.

As the saying goes

War is good business

Invest your sums

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21599:Defense-Stocks-Soar-as-Trump-Wages-War-on-Syria

Philippines’ Duterte Uses ‘War on Terror’ Tactics to Crack Down on Leftists
Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte is violently repressing socialist and communist groups by dubbing them “terrorists,” in what ex-lawmaker Walden Bello says is a dangerous threat to democracy

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21597:Philippines%27-Duterte-Uses-%27War-on-Terror%27-Tactics-to-Crack-Down-on-Leftists

Philippines’ Drug War Kills Poor Addicts, Not Rich Dealers
Most of the thousands killed in Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte’s violent war on drugs have been poor addicts. Ex-lawmaker Walden Bello discusses how the middle class is the social base for far-right movements

*The Klan is the poster child for historical racist violence in the South, but the White Citizens’ Councils were “the coat and tie Klan” – the business “leaders” and “upstanding citizens” who maintained the apartheid system.

My father was a member.

This idea propagated by the corpress and the DNCistas that only working class “deplorables” or the desperate voted for Killer Clown ignores the class dynamics at play here and globally.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21608:Philippines%27-Drug-War-Kills-Poor-Addicts%2C-Not-Rich-Dealers
—

Courage to Resist
Tell the Feds to End Draft Registration!

*No more cannon fodder for these muthas

https://couragetoresist.org/tell-feds-end-draft-registration
—

Democracy Now!
Unlimited Worldwide War: ACLU Warns Senate Against Giving Trump Blank Check to Declare War

*This is DN! – “the exception to the rulers” – at its worst.

Their guest apparently has no problem with violating international law – never mentioned here – much less the immorality and inhumanity of US aggression, as long as Congress thinks it’s okay.

No one else is invited to take exception to that view. Now, perhaps someone will appear in the coming days, but why provide an uncontested platform for this bloodless procedural posture?

It’s little wonder there are days I find nothing worth reposting from this program.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/18/unlimited_worldwide_war_aclu_warns_senate

America’s #1 Weapons Salesman: Trump Promotes U.S. Arms Manufacturers & Weakens Export Rules

*Human rights have never been “a very important part” of arms sales. There were a PR point for Dear Misleader, which Killer Clown has dispensed with.

You’d think Goodman or González might have interjected there, but perhaps that’s a dicey bet.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/18/americas_1_weapons_salesman_trump_promotes

#FreeSiwatu: Pregnant Black Detroit Activist Jailed for Standing Her Ground & Protecting Her Family

*Add “parenting while black”

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/18/freesiwatu_pregnant_black_detroit_activist_jailed

4.17

Species Threatened as Climate Crisis Pushes Mother Nature ‘Out of Synch’
In a new study showing that the timing of species’ natural events is failing to synchronize, “everything is consistent with the fact it’s getting warmer”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/17/species-threatened-climate-crisis-pushes-mother-nature-out-synch

California Democrats Under Fire for Siding With Telecom Lobbyists Against Net Neutrality Bill
Advocates warn that state lawmakers are now “calling for giant loopholes” that would “gut” the proposed legislation
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/17/california-democrats-under-fire-siding-telecom-lobbyists-against-net-neutrality-bill
—

Robert Fisk’s Douma Report Rips Away Excuses for Air Strike on Syria
This report shows that there is a highly credible alternative explanation for what happened in Douma – one that needs to be investigated
by Jonathan Cook

*The ruse to judgment?

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/17/robert-fisks-douma-report-rips-away-excuses-air-strike-syria
–

Democrats, Too, Love Trump’s Wars
The reason Congress hasn’t sanctioned America’s perma-war is because they’re captured, with some notable exceptions, by the same national security apparatus as the past three administrations
by Adam Johnson

*Standing on the neck of principle

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/17/democrats-too-love-trumps-wars
–

Class Dismissed: Class Conflict and Teacher Rebellion in Red State America
Insurgent teachers are instructing us all about a tale of denial for which we’ve paid a heavy price
by Steve Fraser

*A class act

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/17/class-dismissed-class-conflict-and-teacher-rebellion-red-state-america
–

Where on Earth is the Just Economy That Works for All, Including Afghan Children?
by Dr. Hakim Young

http://vcnv.org/2018/04/17/dr-hakim-where-on-earth-is-the-just-economy-that-works-for-all-including-afghan-children
–

The Art of Avoiding Definitions: A Review of Trans*: A Quick and Quirky Account of Gender Variability
by Robert Jensen

http://www.feministcurrent.com/2018/04/16/art-avoiding-definitions-review-trans-quick-quirky-account-gender-variability
—

The Real News Network
Activists Offer Palestinian and Kurdish Solidarity
A rally in Baltimore unpacked the complexities of Palestine and Kurdistan and connected the two to the larger global freedom struggle for self-determination
by Brandon Soderberg

*Is the enemy of my enemy also the enemy of my friend?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21609:Activists-Offer-Palestinian-and-Kurdish-Solidarity

Senior Bernie Advisor says “Bullshit” to Cuomo Campaign Claim It’s “Lockstep” with Sanders
Our election panel, hosted by Paul Jay, responds to NY Daily News report that Bernie Sanders was not endorsing progressive challenger Cynthia Nixon in her run to unseat Gov. Cuomo of New York; with Justice Democrats Alexandra Rojas, Moumita Ahmed of Millennials for Revolution and Eugene Puryear of Stop Police Terror Project-DC

*Maybe we should stop talking about “fine lines”, and start drawing red lines and asking “Which side are you on”?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21602:Senior-Bernie-Advisor-says-%22Bullshit%22-to-Cuomo-Campaign-Claim-It%27s-%22Lockstep%22-with-Sanders
—

RootsAction
Former Marine Corps Captain Matthew Hoh: Veterans’ Suicides Are Caused by Guilt, Not by PTSD

*Guilt by assassination

https://salsa.wiredforchange.com/o/6503/p/salsa/donation/common/public/?donate_page_KEY=11801
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Syria Attack: Seeing Through the Propaganda

http://www.accuracy.org/release/syria-attack-seeing-through-the-propaganda
—

Democracy Now!
Trump’s Legal Worries Grow as Judge Rejects Effort for President to Review Docs Seized in FBI Raid

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/17/trumps_legal_worries_grow_as_judge

Deadliest U.S. Prison Riot in 25 Years Shines Light on Inhumane Conditions in Prisons Across Nation

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/17/deadliest_us_prison_riot_in_25

4.16

As GOP Spends Big Money Trying to Make Corporate Tax Cut Popular, New Poll Shows Most Americans Still Smart Enough to Hate It
“Republicans are going to throw more money and air time to try to make their tax bill popular. But so far, at least, voters have somehow figured out that a giveaway to wealthy corporations is not in their best interests.”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*And if you had an MSM that trafficked in facts rather than faux “balance”, that ratio would be far larger, wouldn’t it just?

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/16/gop-spends-big-money-trying-make-corporate-tax-cut-popular-new-poll-shows-most

‘Underestimating the Opposition,’ Trudeau Doubles Down on Kinder Morgan Pipeline Push
“We will not be bought and we will block this pipeline,” one Indigenous leader responded
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Trudeau and consequences

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/16/underestimating-opposition-trudeau-doubles-down-kinder-morgan-pipeline-push
—

Gunning Down the Easter Bunny: On the Weaponization of Everyday Life
Growing up with the threat of pervasive violence
by Frida Berrigan

*In this gun soaked society

The safety is always off

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/16/gunning-down-easter-bunny-weaponization-everyday-life
–

Climate Change and the Struggle Against the Kinder Morgan Pipeline
by Socialist Project

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/364-socialist-project/3560-climate-change-and-the-struggle-against-the-kinder-morgan-pipeline
–

Missile Attack on Syria Is a Salute to “Russiagate” Enthusiasts — Whether They Like It or Not
by Norman Solomon

*War and “appeasement”

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/185-more-blog-posts-from-norman-solomon/3561-missile-attack-on-syria-is-a-salute-to-russiagate-enthusiasts-whether-they-like-it-or-not-
–

Rolling back militancy: Bangladesh looks to Saudi in a twist of irony
by James M. Dorsey

*What bin Salman is “sincere” in is propagating a PR campaign to position his regime as the “modernizing” force within global Islam, as it seeks dominance among Muslims in the Middle East, and the advance of its alliance with the West and Israel against Iran.

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3559-rolling-back-militancy-bangladesh-looks-to-saudi-in-a-twist-of-irony
–

Turning Qatar into an Island: Saudi cuts off its nose to spite its face
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3557-turning-qatar-into-an-island-saudi-cuts-off-its-nose-to-spite-its-face
–

The Rise, Fall, and Rise Again of the Politics of Middle Eastern Soccer
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3554-the-rise-fall-and-rise-again-of-the-politics-of-middle-eastern-soccer
—

The Real News Network
France Joins US in a ‘Poker Game,’ Targeting Iran and Hezbollah
Algerian journalist Akram Belkaïd says France is joining the US in Syria to assert its imperial power, even as the war winds down

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21592:France-Joins-US-in-a-%27Poker-Game%2C%27-Targeting-Iran-and-Hezbollah

Starbucks and the Criminalization of Blackness
“Criminalization of blackness” is at the root of the arrest, where Blacks who do things that whites do all the time is considered a reason for arrest, explains Eugene Puryear of the D.C. Movement for Black Lives

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21595:Starbucks-and-the-Criminalization-of-Blackness

Bolivia’s Ex-President Sanchez de Lozada Convicted in US Court for Human Rights Abuses
In a milestone decision, a Florida court ruled that Bolivia’s ex-President Gonzalo Sanchez de Lozada (aka Goni) is liable for civilian deaths during his presidency when he ordered protests to be repressed

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=21590

The Complex History and Relations of the Kurdish YPG, Syria, and US
Turkish-Kurdish journalist Ali Ornek discusses the history of the PKK, Turkey’s brutally violent repression of the Kurds, and the complex relations between the YPG, Syria, and US

*Hopefully you can get something out of this, because the language barrier was too much for me to surmount.

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=21539%27%20style=%27color:#000;

OECD Advises Countries to Curb Extreme Inequality
Economist Michael Roberts says the change of tone within the OECD is interesting, but there are no takers ready to implement an estate taxes to reduce inequality

*The climate change analogy is spot on. Any sensible member of the exploiter class has to realize this threatens their position (an end to a livable world has that effect), yet their addiction to greed and power prevents them from taking measures to truly address it.

Likewise, the wealth chasm will lead to an unlivable world for the billions outside their gates, and those gates will not hold against their rage.

Of course, these two factors intertwine, sewing the seeds for either a fearsome future, or one that, while still fraught, will find humanity finally able to see the link between our better angels, and our best interest.

If you got a god, pray hard for the latter.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21570:OECD-Advises-Countries-to-Curb-Extreme-Inequality
—

Petition
No more kids with cancer: clean up the Santa Susana Field Lab
by Melissa Bumstead

https://www.change.org/p/no-more-kids-with-cancer-clean-up-the-santa-susana-field-lab
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Claims about Syria Attack “Unraveling”

*Was this the real “mission”

And if so, with corpress compliance, will it be “accomplished”?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/claims-about-syria-attack-unraveling
—

Democracy Now!
Gaza: Palestinians Continue “Great March of Return” Protests for Third Straight Week

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/16/gaza_palestinians_continue_great_march_of
—

Nutrition Action
Does ginger help nausea?

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/dietary-supplements/does-ginger-help-nausea

4.13

Denouncing Rush to War, Corbyn Calls for Peace Talks and ‘Withdrawal of All Foreign Forces’ From Syria
“Further U.K. military intervention in Syria’s appalling multi-sided war risks escalating an already devastating conflict”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Can you imagine a Democratic Party “leader” following Corbyn’s lead?

Are you off your meds?

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/13/denouncing-rush-war-corbyn-calls-peace-talks-and-withdrawal-all-foreign-forces-syria
–

The Trump Tax Cuts Should be Repealed, Not Made Even Worse by Making Individual Tax Cuts Permanent
The corporate tax cuts flow entirely to shareholders — and the top 1 percent holds 40 percent of total stocks
by Hunter Blair

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/13/trump-tax-cuts-should-be-repealed-not-made-even-worse-making-individual-tax-cuts
—

Earthjustice
Lawmakers Approve Bill Allowing NJ Renters, Apartment-Dwellers to Access Solar Power
‘Low-income communities must be allowed to benefit from clean energy solutions’

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/04/13/lawmakers-approve-bill-allowing-nj-renters-apartment-dwellers-access-solar-power
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
* Inspectors in Syria * Resisting Illegal Orders

*The true meaning of “duty and honor”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/inspectors-in-syria-resisting-illegal-orders
—

Democracy Now!
Syrian Researcher: Focus on Alleged Chemical Attack Ignores War’s Ongoing Deaths by Airstrikes, Bullets

*”Kol khara” to all the killers

Al-Saadi empirically expands on that sentiment, and it’s imperative that we hear his perspective.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/13/syrian_researcher_focus_on_alleged_chemical

As Trump Reconsiders TPP Stance, Fair Trade Advocates Say Real Fight Is over NAFTA Renegotiation

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/13/as_trump_reconsiders_tpp_stance_fair

Nearly 4 People Are Evicted Every Minute: New Project Tracks U.S. Eviction Epidemic & Effects

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/13/nearly_4_people_are_evicted_every

4.12

‘Should Be a No-Brainer’: Progressives Urge Democrats to Muster Guts to Block Pompeo
“Democrats—who have spent a full year re-branding themselves as the resistance to Trump—have the power to stop this Trump nominee. Will they?”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*They may have a brain

It’s certain they have no heart

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/12/should-be-no-brainer-progressives-urge-democrats-muster-guts-block-pompeo

Group Beloved by Betsy Devos and Koch Brothers Launches Counter-Attack Against Teacher Rebellion
In anti-labor messaging guide, State Policy Network acknowledges teachers are underpaid but urges anti-labor groups to fight their calls for fair wages
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*She couldn’t turn loose her brother’s former “freedom fighters” on ’em

So she’ll have to settle for this.

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/12/group-beloved-betsy-devos-and-koch-brothers-launches-counter-attack-against-teacher
—

Lynchings Past And Present
This buried history of power and dehumanization is still living, still present in our world, still killing African-Americans and others
by Robert C. Koehler

*Strange fruit from a poisoned orchard

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/12/lynchings-past-and-present
—

Ready, Set, Go!
New Zealand joins the growing club of first movers tackling fossil fuel production! Who will be next?
by Hannah McKinnon

*Will Brown go green?

Not a wager I’d place my wampum on.

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/12/ready-set-go
—

Food & Water Watch
Enbridge Blunder Proves Line 5 Solutions a Sham: Time to Shut It Down

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/04/12/enbridge-blunder-proves-line-5-solutions-sham-time-shut-it-down

Center for Biological Diversity
Unprecedented Farm Bill Provision Allows EPA to OK Pesticides Without Looking at Harm to Endangered Species
Proposal follows urging from Dow, $11 million in campaign spending

*A poisoning pen

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/04/12/unprecedented-farm-bill-provision-allows-epa-ok-pesticides-without-looking-harm
—

The Real News Network
Canadian Journalists for Free Expression Fights for Survival After Denouncing Israel’s Land Day Killings
CJFE’s Kevin Metcalf tells the Real News he was placed on paid leave after he drafted a statement condemning Israel’s Land Day killings

*Cravenness has a distinct aroma to it that no amount of rationalization can eradicate.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21563:Canadian-Journalists-for-Free-Expression-Fights-for-Survival-After-Denouncing-Israel%27s-Land-Day-

Why is Israel so Threatened by Unarmed Gaza Protesters?
Despite the mounting Palestinian death toll, mass protests continue in the Gaza Strip. Why is Israel using lethal force on unarmed protesters? TRNN’s Shir Hever explains why nonviolent protest is infuriating the Israeli government

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21550:Why-is-Israel-so-Threatened-by-Unarmed-Gaza-Protesters%3F-%28Part-12%29
—

FAIR
Major Papers Urge Trump to Kill Syrians, Risk World War III
by Gregory Shupak

*The corpress never met a war it didn’t hike

https://fair.org/home/major-papers-urge-trump-to-kill-syrians-risk-world-war-iii

4.11

Showing They ‘Learned Nothing’ From Iraq, Corporate Media Help Beat War Drums for Trump Attack on Syria
“Pundits and the media are making John Bolton’s wildest dreams come true: in his first week on the job, everyone is calling for a new war”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Oh, they learned something.

They learned that their cowardice and complicity never comes with consequences

Thus déjà vu all over again

And again

And again …

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/11/showing-they-learned-nothing-iraq-corporate-media-help-beat-war-drums-trump-attack
—

What Teacher Strikes Can Teach Democrats About Education Politics
Not only have Democratic party leaders ignored the growing discontent among teachers; they’ve been actively complicit with Republicans in spreading a false message about what’s been plaguing public education
by Jeff Bryant

*Demorats will do what they always do

Try to co-opt the message, while doing their damnedest to mute it.

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/11/what-teacher-strikes-can-teach-democrats-about-education-politics
—

350.org
Nearly 800 Groups Give Governor Brown a Last Chance to Stand Against Fossil Fuels

*So, if he does something meaningful (or simply appears to), he’s to be applauded

After being forced to do so?

Please explain the logic in that.

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/04/11/nearly-800-groups-give-governor-brown-last-chance-stand-against-fossil-fuels
—

The Real News Network
Trudeau Panics After Trans Mountain Tar Sands Pipeline Suspended
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau convenes an emergency cabinet meeting to save Trans Mountain while Alberta Premier Rachel Notley warns of a “constitutional crisis”

*Dear Misleader may have sailed into the sunset on Richard Branson’s yacht, but his neatly sleazy spirit lives on in the Great White North.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21556:Trudeau-Panics-After-Trans-Mountain-Tar-Sands-Pipeline-Suspended

Trump Threatens to Bomb Syria Without Any Investigation into Alleged Chemical Attack
US President Trump is preparing a military strike on the Syrian government, before the OPCW has been able to investigate the alleged chemical attack in Douma. Journalist Patrick Cockburn says the facts on the ground still are not clear.

*As the noose tenses

So does the trigger finger

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21548:Trump-Threatens-to-Bomb-Syria-Without-Any-Investigation-into-Alleged-Chemical-Attack

Major Banks Ramp Up Fossil Fuel Financing Despite Climate Crisis
A recent report, “Banking on Climate Change 2018,” finds major banks increased fossil fuel financing to $115 Billion in 2017–up 11% from the year before–even though it was the costliest year on record for climate-related disasters. We speak to lead author Alison Kirsch of the Rainforest Action Network

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21549:Major-Banks-Ramp-Up-Fossil-Fuel-Financing-Despite-Climate-Crisis

Kentucky Teachers to Hold Sick-Out Friday Despite Threats from Governor
Educators in Kentucky are fighting back against drastic cuts to their pensions and charter school expansion, says teacher Blossom Brosi

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21555:Kentucky-Teachers-to-Hold-Sick-Out-Friday-Despite-Threats-from-Governor

Do Teachers Need More Militant Unions to Win?
Union activist Lois Weiner argues the recent wave of teacher revolts were sparked by rank-and-file teachers who refused to accept the status quo

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21554:Do-Teachers-Need-More-Militant-Unions-to-Win%3F
—

FAIR
Media’s Linguistic Gymnastics Mislead on Gaza Protests
by Gregory Shupak

*Protesters aren’t the only ones blowing smoke

https://fair.org/home/medias-linguistic-gymnastics-mislead-on-gaza-protests
—

Democracy Now!
Web Bonus: How “Vulture” Hedge Funds Are Killing Off the Newspaper Industry

*There’s a disconnect here between the ideal of local journalism and its reality.

Certainly there’s solid work done (even the AP on the national level occasionally can claim same), but to take the example of my local rag, the Walker … um, Wisconsin … State Journal out of Madison, its fealty to the status quo and its exclusion of truly alternative voices and perspectives surely mirrors the situation nationwide.

In striving to save local papers, we must also struggle to make them worthy of that effort.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/11/web_bonus_how_vulture_hedge_funds

“Facebook Doesn’t Sell Your Data. It Sells You”: Zeynep Tufekci on How Company’s Profit Really Works

*If we’re going to control artificial intelligence

We better start showing some of the actual variety

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/11/facebook_doesnt_sell_your_data_it

How Facebook Played “Instrumental” Role in Rise of Burma’s Ethnic Cleansing Campaign of Rohingya

*What Facebook is responsible for in Burma is a case of criminal negligence, and that’s a … crime, innit?

Of course, it’s a giant corp, so the Republicans won’t do anything

And it’s a giant corp with visceral ties to Democrats, so they won’t do diddley.

So people die …

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/11/how_facebook_played_instrumental_role_in

ACLU: Facebook Has to Do Much More to Stop Housing & Job Discrimination on Platform

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/11/aclu_facebook_has_to_do_much

Amid Privacy Scandal, Is Facebook Profiting off Data from Children & Teens?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/11/amid_facebooks_privacy_scandal_growing_concern

4.10

As Progressives Nationwide Urgently Mobilize to Block Pompeo, Hillary Clinton Reportedly Gave Him ‘Advice’
“Why is Clinton even taking a call from such a monstrous person?”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Madame Mayhem meets Monsieur Malevolence

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/10/progressives-nationwide-urgently-mobilize-block-pompeo-hillary-clinton-reportedly
—

Do U.S. Oligarchs Exist? Not in Mainstream Media
Word choice is revealing when one considers an indisputable fact: U.S. oligarchs have done far more to undermine U.S. democracy than any Russian ever could
by Jeff Cohen

*Oligarchy is as American as Apple’s prodigious pie

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/10/do-us-oligarchs-exist-not-mainstream-media
–

That $4,000 Raise Donald Trump and Paul Ryan Promised You Was a Trickle-Down Lie
Take it from a rich business guy, we only give out raises when we have to. Don’t count on that $4,000 Donald Trump & Paul Ryan promised from tax cuts.
by Nick Hanauer

*Take a whiff of that trickle

And yes, “you can fire all those lying politicians”

But please have a clear eyed view of who you’d be “hiring” to replace them.

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/10/4000-raise-donald-trump-and-paul-ryan-promised-you-was-trickle-down-lie
–

The Missing Link in the Gun Debate
by Greta Zarro

*Whizzing bullets in the whirlwind

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/770-greta-zarro/3552-the-missing-link-in-the-gun-debate
—

The Real News Network
Israel Massacres Unarmed Gaza Protesters Again as International Community Shrugs
The Israeli military massacred unarmed Palestinian protesters on the Gaza border for the second week in a row, and journalist Ali Abunimah says Israel has been granted “total impunity” on the global stage

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21546:Israel-Massacres-Unarmed-Gaza-Protesters-Again-as-International-Community-Shrugs

Super Victory for the Far-Right in Hungary
Viktor Orban’s far-right Fidesz party won reelection with a two-thirds majority in parliament, allowing him to change the constitution in line with his anti-immigrant platform. Benjamin Novak of the Budapest Beacon analyzes the result

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21538:Super-Victory-for-the-Far-Right-in-Hungary

UN Declared Humanitarian Crisis in the DRC, President Kabila Rejects Aid
President Joseph Kabila insists that there is no humanitarian crisis in the Democratic Republic of Congo, even as millions of children starve. Kabila “doesn’t want anything to reinforce what is widely understood: that the instability in the country is caused in large part by his refusal to step down from power,” says Friends of the Congo’s Maurice Carney

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21535:UN-Declared-Humanitarian-Crisis-in-the-DRC%2C-President-Kabila-Rejects-Aid

Maryland Passes Watered Down Moratorium on Water Liens
A bill sponsored by Senator Barbara Robinson was fast-tracked through the General Assembly on Monday, but activists say the legislation was stripped down
by Dharna Noor

*”Reform” is most often spelled with a “D”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21543:Maryland-Passes-Watered-Down-Moratorium-on-Water-Liens
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Attacking Syria “Impeachable”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/attacking-syria-impeachable
—

FAIR
Who Will Take on the 21st Century Tech and Media Monopolies?
by Justin Anderson

*We’re talking serious Monopoly money

https://fair.org/home/who-will-take-on-the-21st-century-tech-and-media-monopolies
—

Democracy Now!
Trump Slams FBI & AG Jeff Sessions After Agents Raid Home & Office of His Attorney, Michael Cohen

*Would it be simplistic of me to suggest that Killer Clown, smelling the shit about to hit the fan, will go “Fire and Fury” in Syria and possibly elsewhere to imbue himself with “Presidentialismo”, resulting in the corpress and political class snapping to salute The Commander in Chief ™?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/10/trump_slams_fbi_ag_jeff_sessions

“A Very Dangerous Moment”: Trump Threatens to Strike Syria as Warmonger John Bolton Joins Cabinet

*Bennis doesn’t deem it simplistic, does she?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/10/a_very_dangerous_moment_trump_threatens

Is “Sorry” Enough? Facebook Built Empire on Harvesting Personal Information with Little Oversight

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/10/is_sorry_enough_facebook_built_empire

Denver Post Revolts Against Its “Vulture” Hedge-Fund Owner & Demands 126-Year-Old Newspaper Be Saved

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/10/denver_post_revolts_against_its_vulture

4.9

Warning of ‘Serious Consequences’ If US Attacks Syria, Russian Says Chemical Attack Possible False Flag Operation
“It is necessary to warn again that military intervention under invented and fabricated pretexts in Syria… is absolutely unacceptable and can lead to the most serious consequences,” said the Russian Foreign Minister’s office
by Jon Queally, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/09/warning-serious-consequences-if-us-attacks-syria-russian-says-chemical-attack

As Oklahoma Teachers’ Strike Enters Second Week, Education Supporters Pack State Capitol to Capacity
“We aren’t going to shut up, we aren’t done…We are ready to fight for our kids for the long haul”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*You know she’s dying to sic her brother’s erstwhile storm troopers on them, don’t you just?

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/09/oklahoma-teachers-strike-enters-second-week-education-supporters-pack-state-capitol
—

Bills to Ban Local Soda Taxes Are Moving in the States
Coke and Pepsi Borrow from the Tobacco Playbook
by Mary Bottari
Center for Media and Democracy

*Sickly sweet

https://www.exposedbycmd.org/2018/03/28/bills-ban-local-soda-taxes-moving-states-coke-pepsi-borrow-tobacco-playbook

Soda Money Flows into Cook County Races, but Comes Up Flat
by David Armiak
Center for Media and Democracy

https://www.exposedbycmd.org/2018/03/29/soda-money-flows-cook-county-races-comes-flat
—

Teachers and Students Walkout: Call Bullshit on Apartheid Schools in the Nation’s Capital
Washington, D.C.’s public school system is just one example of how the impacts of racial segregation in our schools have been ignored
by Abel McDaniels

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/09/teachers-and-students-walkout-call-bullshit-apartheid-schools-nations-capital
–

Three More Reasons for Wealth-Deprived Americans to Take to the Streets
Nearly 15 percent of our nation’s total household wealth — $14 trillion! — has been transfered from middle-class America to people with an average net worth of $75 million
by Paul Buchheit

*America

The land of opportunism

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/09/three-more-reasons-wealth-deprived-americans-take-streets
–

Thousands of Hearts and Minds
by Ed Kinane

http://vcnv.org/2018/04/07/thousands-of-hearts-and-minds-ed-kinane
–

Remembering Syria: Iran struggles with potentially explosive environmental crisis
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3551-remembering-syria-iran-struggles-with-potentially-explosive-environmental-crisis
—

The Real News Network
US Occupying Oil-Rich Areas in North Syria to Choke Damascus
Turkish-Kurdish journalist Ali Ornek says the United States is keeping a military presence in SDF/YPG-held areas in northern Syria to starve the government in Damascus of revenue needed to rebuild

*I’d really like to better understand this complex situation, but Ornek’s lack of fluency in English (not a criticism – just a fact) combined with TRNN’s chronically poor transcription (“under the control of candy not of Iraq” … ?) is a true hindrance in accomplishing that objective.

I understand that funding is an issue, but efficacious translation and transcription is essential in segments of this nature, don’t you think?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21530:US-Occupying-Oil-Rich-Areas-in-North-Syria-to-Choke-Damascus

French Austerity Program Provokes Growing Wave of Worker and Student Strikes
University students and railroad and airline workers are escalating protests and strikes in France against President Macron’s austerity plans

*C’est la guerre

Contre l’austérité

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21529:French-Austerity-Program-Provokes-Growing-Wave-of-Worker-and-Student-Strikes
—

Brave New Films
Immigrant Stories: Doctors and Nurses

*A sickness of the soul

https://www.facebook.com/unlikelysource/posts/1672783132810122
—

Petition
Tell the EPA NO Genetically Modified Mosquitoes!
by Mila de Mier

*Kill this buzz

https://www.change.org/p/tell-the-epa-no-to-gmo-mosquitoes
—

Democracy Now!
Glenn Greenwald on Syria: U.S. & Israel Revving Up War Machine Won’t Help Suffering Syrian Civilians

*I largely agree with Greenwald’s take, except that I still am agnostic on Assad’s use of chemical weapons, at least in the more recent period, in that we have to consider the sources of these accusations, as well as just what he would gain from their use, and just what he might lose from the backlash against it.

What is certain is that he’s a mass murderer, whatever weapons he employs, and that the fingers of the nations pointed at him are just as bloody.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/9/glenn_greenwald_on_syria_us_israel

Glenn Greenwald: Brazil’s Right Wing Jailed Ex-President Lula Because They Couldn’t Win at the Polls

*It’s very rare to hear someone actually attempt to place “icons” such as Lula, or Chávez – or Mandela – in context, to list their contradictions along with their credits, and I commend Greenwald for doing so, as well as criticize others who abjure from same.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/9/glenn_greenwald_brazils_right_wing_jailed

“Apartheid, Rogue, Terrorist State”: Glenn Greenwald on Israel’s Murder of Gaza Protesters, Reporter

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/9/apartheid_rogue_terrorist_state_glenn_greenwald

4.6

‘Callously Indifferent’ BP Argued Oil Spills Would Provide ‘Welcome Boost’ to Coastal Economy
Six years after the deadly Deepwater Horizon spill, oil giant claimed such disasters were “socially acceptable”
by Julia Conley, staff writer

*”Think of it this way

If one of your kids dies, that’s a boon to your family budget.”

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/06/callously-indifferent-bp-argued-oil-spills-would-provide-welcome-boost-coastal

Huge Surge in Political Activism, Engagement Has Direct Ties to Trump Presidency, Poll Finds
Nearly 20 percent of those who have attended a demonstration since Trump’s election had never protested before
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*When it comes to militarism/imperialism, Phil Ochs’ lyrics ring ironically true

“I ain’t marching anymore”

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/06/huge-surge-political-activism-engagement-has-direct-ties-trump-presidency-poll-finds

In Display of ‘Actual Sociopathy,’ Trump Reportedly Asked CIA Why Drone Didn’t Also Kill Target’s Family
The question came as civilian casualties have reached “unprecedented” heights during Trump’s presidency
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Killer Clown’s circus of death

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/06/display-actual-sociopathy-trump-reportedly-asked-cia-why-drone-didnt-also-kill
—

Israel’s systematic violence against Palestinian women
by Greg Shupak

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/769-greg-shupak/3550-israels-systematic-violence-against-palestinian-women
—

The Real News Network
Under Threat of Military Coup, Brazil’s Supreme Court Sends Lula to Prison
The Supreme Court’s 5-6 ruling, which requires presidential frontrunner Lula da Silva to begin serving his 12-year sentence immediately, is “one more in a series of blows against Brazilian democracy,” says Brazil Wire’s Brian Mier

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21503:Under-Threat-of-Military-Coup%2C-Brazil%27s-Supreme-Court-Sends-Lula-to-Prison

Louisiana Bill Aims To Hypercriminalize Pipeline Protests (1/2)
Civil rights lawyer Bill Quigley says that the legislation is driven by private oil companies who want to clamp down on environmental activists’ First Amendment rights and preserve profits derived at the expense of communities of color

*The protest to prison pipeline

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21501:Louisiana-Bill-Aims-To-Hypercriminalize-Pipeline-Protests-%2812%29

Louisiana Bill To Hypercriminalize Pipeline Protests Is “Backfiring”
In Part Two, civil rights lawyer Bill Quigley says the bill is meant to intimidate protesters, but “it’s not going to stop the people who are really dedicated”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21524:Louisiana-Bill-To-Hypercriminalize-Pipeline-Protests-Is-%22Backfiring%22

How Blue-State Democrats Continually Beat Back Reform
As part of TRNN’s in-depth coverage of the legislative session in Maryland’s state capital, we take a quick tally of all the reform proposals that didn’t even get a vote this year

*A “blue wave” drowning progress

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21506:How-Blue-State-Democrats-Continually-Beat-Back-Reform

Chelsea Manning On Nazis, the Surveillance State, and Running For Senate
The whistleblower and transgender activist Chelsea Manning discusses Senator Ben Cardin, fighting Nazis without resorting to police, and making mistakes like going to an alt-right party

*Manning certainly goes beyond the Sandersista rhetoric, and I’ll be interested to see how they react to her campaign.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21517:Chelsea-Manning-On-Nazis%2C-the-Surveillance-State%2C-and-Running-For-Senate
—

Petition
Color Of Change
Demand DA Merriwether drop all charges against Charlotte Uprising activists Glo and Rayquan

https://act.colorofchange.org/sign/Protect_Charlotte_Uprising_Protestors

RootsAction
Pass the GRACE Act

https://act.rootsaction.org/p/dia/action4/common/public/?action_KEY=13326
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Israel Shooting Palestinian Protesters and the Gaza “Conspiracy of Silence”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/israel-shooting-palestinian-protesters-and-the-gaza-conspiracy-of-silence
—

Democracy Now!
How Iona Craig Exposed the White House Lie About 2017 SEAL Raid That Killed Yemeni Women & Children

*I could have done without Craig making excuses for the lack of corpress coverage.

She did her job. They could, too

If that was truly their intent.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/6/how_iona_craig_exposed_the_white

Judge Suspends Release of Herman Bell, Elderly Black Panther Jailed 45 Years, Amid Police Pressure

*When push comes to shove on cops and crime, Dems like de Blasio always keel over

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/6/judge_suspends_release_of_herman_bell

Judge Halts Release of Herman Bell Despite NY’s Attempts to Parole More Low-Risk, Elderly Prisoners

*The convicted can change

The cops never will

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/6/judge_halts_release_of_herman_bell

How Big Wireless War-Gamed the Science on Risks, While Making Customers Addicted to Their Phones

*Wireless

And soulless

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/5/how_big_wireless_war_gamed_the

4.5

50+ Artificial Intelligence Scholars Launch Boycott of University Over Fears of ‘Killer Robot’ Weapons Lab
“This is a very respected university partnering with a very ethically dubious partner that continues to violate international norms”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Despots

And “democracies”

Terrorists

And “humanitarian interventionists”

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/05/50-artificial-intelligence-scholars-launch-boycott-university-over-fears-killer

Study Details How IEA’s Rosy Outlook for Fossil Fuels Is Driving World Towards Climate Disaster
“The IEA provides an energy roadmap that is supposed to lead us to safety, but in fact it takes us over the cliff”
by Jon Queally, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/05/study-details-how-ieas-rosy-outlook-fossil-fuels-driving-world-towards-climate
—

If You Want to Kill Drug Dealers, Start with Big Pharma
Big corporations, not street dealers, are the true authors and profiteers of the opioid crisis
by Domenica Ghanem

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/05/if-you-want-kill-drug-dealers-start-big-pharma
–

US Shootings: Gun Industry Killing More People Overseas
In every measurable way, the U.S is head honcho of the global violence industry
by Tamara Pearson

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/05/us-shootings-gun-industry-killing-more-people-overseas
—

Amazon Watch
Record Environmental Judgement Moves to Ontario Superior Court in Toronto
Long running dispute between petro-giant Chevron and Ecuadorian citizens has Canadian component

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/04/05/record-environmental-judgement-moves-ontario-superior-court-toronto
—

The Real News Network
Working While Black: Black Worker Activism in the 21st Century
Executive Producer Eddie Conway speaks with Tanya Wallace-Gobern of the National Black Workers Center about educating and mobilizing the black community to fight back against workplace discrimination and exploitation

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21412:Working-While-Black%3A-Black-Worker-Activism-in-the-21st-Century
—

FAIR
Media Warn of ‘Russian Bots’—Despite Primary Source’s Disavowal
by Adam Johnson

*From “Reds under the bed”

To “Bots over the net”

https://fair.org/home/media-warn-of-russian-bots-despite-primary-sources-disavowal
—

Democracy Now!
Trump Escalates Already Deadly U.S. Border Policies, Ordering National Guard Troops to Mexico

*There’s an acerbic joke about FOX and guarding henhouses in there somewhere

But this is no laughing matter, to state the literally bleeding obvious.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/5/trump_escalates_already_deadly_us_border

Caravan of Central American Migrants Holds a Mirror to Cruel U.S. Immigration Policy & Imperialism

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/5/caravan_of_central_american_migrants_holds

How the Wireless Industry Convinced the Public Cellphones Are Safe & Cherry-Picked Research on Risks

*Can we please stop saying that the corpress is “hoodwinked” by these bastards, whatever the issue may be?

They know full well there’s another narrative, and they wilfully ignore it, or at the very least engage in false balance in their presentation.

That’s their job.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/5/how_the_wireless_industry_convinced_the

4.4

In Gaza, Israel Aims To Massacre Hope
As the notion of a two-state agreement fades firmly into history, the apartheid reality becomes impossible to ignore
by Yousef Munayyer

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/04/gaza-israel-aims-massacre-hope
–

Basic Income: Progressive Cloak and Neoliberal Dagger
by John Clarke

*Beware gilded geeks bearing gifts

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/510-john-clarke/3548-basic-income-progressive-cloak-and-neoliberal-dagger
—

Economic Policy Institute
Teachers Across the Country Have Finally Had Enough of the Teacher Pay Penalty

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/04/04/teachers-across-country-have-finally-had-enough-teacher-pay-penalty
—

The Real News Network
The Rise of American Islamophobia
Author Khaled Beydoun discusses the distinct forms of anti-Muslim and anti-Arab sentiments in America–where Islamophobia has a very specific and particular history–and how politicians capitalize on this fear of Islam to mobilize and galvanize voters

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21449:The-Rise-of-American-Islamophobia

Turkey and Islamist Rebels Carve Up Northern Syria
Marking a new phase in the Syrian War, Turkey is taking over cities in northern Syria, and children in occupied Afrin are being brainwashed with pro-Erdogan propaganda. We talk to Turkish-Kurdish journalist Ali Ornek

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21488:Turkey-and-Islamist-Rebels-Carve-Up-Northern-Syria
—

Petition
Anthem reduces Breast Pump coverage April 1
by Roni Williams

https://www.change.org/p/anthem-reduces-breast-pump-coverage-april-1-2018
—

Democracy Now!
Teachers in Revolt: Meet the Educators in Kentucky & Oklahoma Walking Out over School Funding

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/4/teachers_in_revolt_meet_the_educators

4.3

More Than One-Third of College Students Struggle with Food and Housing Insecurity, Study Finds
“There has been an uptick in low-income students on campus, but there hasn’t been a corresponding change in university policy to welcome and prepare for these students”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*A higher education in inequality

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/03/more-one-third-college-students-struggle-food-and-housing-insecurity-study-finds
—

Repeal the Second Amendment — It’s Not a Crazy Idea
Do we honestly think that the 39 men that signed the U.S. Constitution 230 years ago, are some sort of deified superheroes who cannot be questioned by mere mortals in 2018?
by Christopher M. Norwood

*Is the Constitution “a living document”

Or dead letters from dead men?

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/03/repeal-second-amendment-its-not-crazy-idea
–

The Failures Of Western Reporting in Gaza
If a Palestinian is killed by an Israeli soldier, the most appropriate thing to do is to call it a “clash”
by Vijay Prashad

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/03/failures-western-reporting-gaza
–

Paris Climate Goals Depend on Promoting Biodiversity
by Ashley Braun

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/768-ashley-braun/3546-paris-climate-goals-depend-on-promoting-biodiversity
—

Center for International Environmental Law
New Report Warns of Hidden Economic Risks to Booming Plastics Investments

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/04/03/new-report-warns-hidden-economic-risks-booming-plastics-investments
—

The Real News Network
Sinclair’s Synchronized Fake News Broadcast Goes Viral
The broadcasting giant’s efforts to coordinate the messages coming from local stations has landed it in the national spotlight, but Sinclair’s efforts to effect local education policy in Baltimore may be more nefarious and ultimately more dangerous to democracy

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21499:Sinclair%27s-Synchronized-Fake-News-Broadcast-Goes-Viral

The Deep Rooted Crisis of Police Violence in the USA
Executive Producer Eddie Conway and David Correia, author of “Police: A Field Guide”, examine police propaganda that criminalizes victims of police violence and works to halt any radical responses to it

*If you can control the words

You can divert the deeds

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21474:The-Deep-Rooted-Crisis-of-Police-Violence-in-the-USA

Wall Street Bankers’ Executive Bonuses Highlight Worsening Inequality
Banks are collecting money from every corner of this economy, becoming “the special winner in the capitalist game of our time,” says economist Richard D. Wolff. The bonuses “strike another blow for that growing inequality between the rich and everybody else in the United States”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21476:Wall-Street-Bankers%27-Executive-Bonuses-Highlight-Worsening-Inequality

Should Johns Pay a Steeper Price for Prostitution?
A Baltimore councilman wants to focus on punishing people who purchase sex as a way to curb demand, but will it work in a city that has a bustling red-light district just blocks from city hall?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21491:Should-Johns-Pay-a-Steeper-Price-for-Prostitution%3F
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
MLK: Radical Revolutionary

*When they couldn’t murder the message

They murdered the messenger

http://www.accuracy.org/release/mlk-radical-revolutionary
—

FAIR
NPR Runs IDF Playbook, Spinning Killing of 17 Palestinians
by Adam Johnson

*N egating
P opular
R evolt

https://fair.org/home/npr-runs-idf-playbook-spinning-killing-of-17-palestinians
—

Democracy Now!
Media Giant Sinclair, Under Fire for Forcing Anchors to Read Trumpian Screed, Is Rapidly Expanding

*Local news mostly stinks to high heaven.

Sinclair wants to add a glacier’s worth of ice to that corrosive cocktail.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/3/media_giant_sinclair_under_fire_for

MLK’s Final Days: The Rev. James Lawson Remembers King’s Assassination & Support for Memphis Strike

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/3/mlks_final_days_the_rev_james

He Gave His Life in the Labor Struggle: MLK’s Forgotten Radical Message for Economic Justice

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/3/he_gave_his_life_in_the

4.2

Showing Paris Not Enough, Studies Find 2°C Target Won’t Stop ‘Destructive and Deadly’ Impacts of Global Warming
This crisis requires “not only climate scientists, but the whole Earth system science community, as well as economists, engineers, lawyers, philosophers, politicians, emergency planners, and others to step up”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/02/showing-paris-not-enough-studies-find-2degc-target-wont-stop-destructive-and-deadly

‘Stuff of Nightmares’: Viral Video Shows Sinclair Forcing Local TV Anchors to Recite Trumpian Propaganda
“It sickens me the way this company is encroaching upon trusted news brands in rural markets,” said one local reporter
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*I’d be curious to know whether any of these “trusted” news personalities refused, wouldn’t you?

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/04/02/stuff-nightmares-viral-video-shows-sinclair-forcing-local-tv-anchors-recite-trumpian
—

The Oligarchs’ ‘Guaranteed Basic Income’ Scam
Beware the architects of our neofeudalism calling on the government to pay a guaranteed basic income
by Chris Hedges

*The noblesse only oblige themselves

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/04/02/oligarchs-guaranteed-basic-income-scam
—

The Real News Network
Democracy in Crisis: Do #BlackLivesMatter to the #Resistance?
While the national press drools over every bit of Trump gossip, real battles over policing and civil rights are happening almost unnoticed
by Baynard Woods

*The funhouse mirror obscures the smoke

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21495:Democracy-in-Crisis%3A-Do-%23BlackLivesMatter-to-the-%23Resistance%3F

Wildcat Teacher Strikes Spread to Kentucky and Oklahoma
Educators are prepared to do “whatever it takes” to defend public education, says Kentucky public school teacher Blossom Brosi

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21494:Wildcat-Teacher-Strikes-Spread-to-Kentucky-and-Oklahoma

The Murder of Marielle Franco and the Birth of a Movement
Massive protests against the killing of Marielle Franco blanketed Brazil in recent weeks. If the anti-police violence activist from the favelas of Rio de Janeiro was killed to silence her, it appears her assassination has done just the opposite

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21487:The-Murder-of-Marielle-Franco-and-the-Birth-of-a-Movement

Should Sex Work be Decriminalized? One Advocate says Yes
Caroline Unger of the Sex Workers Outreach Program Baltimore discusses how best to protect sex workers in light of new human trafficking legislation currently being debated by the city council

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21483:Should-Sex-Work-be-Decriminalized%3F-One-Advocate-says-Yes

Israel Massacres Unarmed Gaza Protesters, Shooting 773 with Live Ammunition
The Israeli military brutally crushed a protest on the Gaza border led by tens of thousands of Palestinians, killing 16 and injuring 1,400. Journalist Max Blumenthal speaks of Israel’s suffocating blockade of the strip and the biased media reporting on the “Great Return March”.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21486:Israel-Massacres-Unarmed-Gaza-Protesters%2C-Shooting-773-with-Live-Ammunition

Israeli Military Admits Massacre of Unarmed Gaza Protesters Was Intentional – then Deletes Tweets
The IDF said its bloody crackdown on unarmed Palestinian protesters was “accurate and measured.” After shooting 773 Gazans with live ammunition, it wrote on Twitter, “we know where every bullet landed.”
by Ben Norton

*And the corpress calls it “clashes”.

How would they describe it if it allegedly had occurred in a nation labeled a “terrorist supporter”?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21485:Israeli-Military-Admits-Massacre-of-Unarmed-Gaza-Protesters-Was-Intentional—then-Deletes-Tweets

Trade War Greatly Exaggerated
America’s trading partners, including Europe and China, will likely wait for Trump to move on to his next distraction–which could be a real war, not a trade war, says CEPR co-director Mark Weisbrot

*Gunsmoke and mirrors

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21466:Trade-War-Greatly-Exaggerated
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Wave of Teachers’ Strikes: Kentucky and Oklahoma

http://www.accuracy.org/release/wave-of-teachers-strikes-kentucky-and-oklahoma
—

FAIR
What’s a Non-Racist Way to Appeal to Working-Class Whites? NYT’s Edsall Can’t Think of Any
by Jim Naureckas

*Dog whistles from a corpress cur

https://fair.org/home/whats-a-non-racist-way-to-appeal-to-working-class-whites-nyts-edsall-cant-think-of-any
—

Democracy Now!
Starvation Wages Are a “Crime”: Lessons from MLK & 1968 Memphis Sanitation Strike, 50 Years Later

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/4/2/starvation_wages_are_a_crime_lessons

March 2018

 

3.30

Judge Hands ‘Horrifying’ Five-Year Prison Sentence to Woman for the Crime of…Voting
Crystal Mason, a mother of two, says she was never told by her probation officer that she couldn’t vote while on probation
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Jail for voting in an election

Jack for rigging one

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/30/judge-hands-horrifying-five-year-prison-sentence-woman-crime-ofvoting

A Dozen Advertisers Drop Laura Ingraham as Parkland Shooting Survivor She Mocked Rejects Her Apology
“She’s only apologizing after a third of her advertisers pulled out,” said David Hogg, who survived the Parkland school shooting that left 17 dead last month
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*These corps’ actions are as insincere as Ingraham’s apology, as they had previously sought to profit off her vitriol vented toward other targets

So let’s not “applaud” them for doing nothing more than being cognizant of their bottom lines.

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/30/dozen-advertisers-drop-laura-ingraham-parkland-shooting-survivor-she-mocked-rejects
—

Why Focusing on People of Color Will Help the Movement for Gun Control Succeed
“Yes, the March for Our Lives Was About Black People, Too—and It’s About Time”
by Sonali Kolhatkar

*There’s no room to grow in a silo

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/30/why-focusing-people-color-will-help-movement-gun-control-succeed
–

A Few Thoughts on the March for Our Lives
If a critical mass of students begins seeing the connections among violence, racism, injustice, capitalism and Washington raining death on people abroad, the MSM will abruptly cease its fawning approval
by Gary Olson

*Damming with feigned praise

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/30/few-thoughts-march-our-lives
—

The Real News Network
Big Oil and Climate Science on Trial
Climate change science is the basis of San Francisco’s and Oakland’s legal case against Big Oil companies, to make them pay billions for the rising public cost of rising sea level due to global warming. In a surprise move, Chevron admits humans are causing climate change but say they are not liable

*Snake oil from oily snakes

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21481:Big-Oil-and-Climate-Science-on-Trial
—

FAIR
Fear the Fiscal Future, WSJ Warns in New Version of Old Scare Story
by Dean Baker

https://fair.org/home/fear-the-fiscal-future-wsj-warns-in-new-version-of-old-scare-story
—

Democracy Now!
David Shulkin’s Firing at the VA Is Latest Step in Trump-Koch Push to Privatize Veterans’ Healthcare

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/30/david_shulkins_firing_at_the_va

Meet the Doctor Suing Trump: Dr. Eugene Gu on Gun Violence, Privatization of VA & White Supremacy

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/30/meet_the_doctor_suing_trump_dr
—

The Truth About Pet Cancer
15 Signs Your Dog or Cat May be Sick or in Pain

https://thetruthaboutpetcancer.com/15-signs-dog-cat-sick-in-pain

3.29

ACLU to Cities: Defend Online Privacy, Net Neutrality With Publicly Owned Municipal Broadband
A new report details how local officials can create publicly owned internet programs that not only protect free speech and privacy, but also are accessible and affordable
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Wouldn’t you like to see these mayors put our money where their mouth is?

After spending hours yesterday pingponging between Spectrum and AT&T to get a better deal, I have my hand up.

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/29/aclu-cities-defend-online-privacy-net-neutrality-publicly-owned-municipal-broadband
—

Will the real Pakistan stand up, please?
by James M. Dorsey

*Regarding the FATF

That’s “political violence” only in developing countries, innit?

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3543-will-the-real-pakistan-stand-up-please
—

The Real News Network
Mayor Pugh Signs Landmark Ban on Crude Oil Terminals in Baltimore
Baltimore is the first east coast city to pass a ban of this kind. Advocates say it will protect the city from dangerous crude oil train explosions and help to fight climate change
by Dharna Noor

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21470:Mayor-Pugh-Signs-Landmark-Ban-on-Crude-Oil-Terminals-in-Baltimore

Cambridge Analytica Is Not Alone: i360 and Data Trust Are Disastrous for Democracy
Cambridge Analytica, owned by Robert Mercer, is in the news, but other companies — like the Koch Brothers’ i360 and Karl Rove’s Data Trust — are far more dangerous, says investigative reporter Greg Palast

*You know the Democratic “leadership” will be screaming bloody murder about this, don’t you?

You don’t … ?

Neither do I.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21461:Cambridge-Analytica-Is-Not-Alone%3A-i360-and-Data-Trust-Are-Disastrous-for-Democracy
—

FAIR
Evidence of Violent Extremism of Little Interest When Killer Is White

*Color blinded coverage

https://fair.org/home/evidence-of-violent-extremism-of-little-interest-when-killer-is-white
—

Democracy Now!
As North Korea Talks with China, South Korea & Japan, Could Bolton Derail Denuclearization Progress?

*I wouldn’t want the US to have normal relations with such a brutal regime, but remember that it already has them with others of the same ilk, making plain its utter hypocrisy.

I want to see change in North Korea, but it will take a changed United States to work for it in any morally legitimate manner.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/29/as_north_korea_talks_with_china

NYC Minister: I’m Willing to Be Arrested If ICE Comes for Immigrant Mother in Sanctuary in My Church

*Some people get the whole “WWJD?” thing

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/29/nyc_minister_im_willing_to_be

3.28

As States Jockey for Most Egregious Attack on Abortion Rights, Warnings Grow Over Sinister Master Plan
“This rash of radically unconstitutional bills is appearing by design”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/28/states-jockey-most-egregious-attack-abortion-rights-warnings-grow-over-sinister
—

One No-Brainer Way to Bring Gun Deaths Down
Closing the “boyfriend loophole” would save lives without putting guns in classrooms or taking them off store shelves
by Aniqa Raihan

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/28/one-no-brainer-way-bring-gun-deaths-down
–

Tennessee Wants to Use Funding Meant for Poor Families to Kick People Off Medicaid
One would be hard-pressed to cook up a more twisted irony
by Rebecca Vallas

*Robbing Peter to ravage Paul

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/28/tennessee-wants-use-funding-meant-poor-families-kick-people-medicaid
—

The Real News Network
Trump Appoints Yet Another Deregulator – This Time to the FDIC
Jelena McWilliams will be the new FDIC director and this will mean a “slaughter” of the remaining banking regulations, which will already be significantly weakened via a new law to be passed soon by Congress, says former financial regulator Bill Black

*Is there any term more drenched in irony than “bank and trust”?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21453:Trump-Appoints-Yet-Another-Deregulator—This-Time-to-the-FDIC

Catalan Independence Leader’s Arrest in Germany Strengthens Rajoy”s Hand
Carles Puigdemont, the former president of Catalonia, was arrested in Germany on a Spanish international arrest warrant. The action will serve to harden positions on both sides of the independence fight in Spain, says Oberlin Prof. Sebastian Faber

*What Podemos could be doing is decrying the draconian actions of the central gummint, and calling for sincere negotiations over the issue, it seems to me.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21452:Catalan-Independence-Leader%92s-Arrest-in-Germany-Strengthens-Rajoy%22s-Hand

Victims of Political Policing Walk Out of Inquiry, Call for Judge’s Resignation
Mohamed Elmaazi follows up with campaigners and victims of political policing who explain why they staged a walkout from the public inquiry into undercover policing at the Royal Courts of Justice

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21450:Victims-of-Political-Policing-Walk-Out-of-Inquiry%2C-Call-for-Judge%27s-Resignation
—

FAIR
Media Boosts Obvious Saudi Front Group as Neutral ‘Think Tank’
by Adam Johnson

*Tanks for the props

https://fair.org/home/media-boosts-obvious-saudi-front-group-as-neutral-think-tank
—

Democracy Now!
Journalist Ari Berman: If Trump Is Allowed to Rig the Census, Then All of U.S. Democracy Is Rigged

*Deceit, deception, duplicity from The Donald?

Count on it

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/28/journalist_ari_berman_if_trump_is

Killed in Cold Blood: Alton Sterling’s Family Decries Decision Not to Charge Officers for Murder

*This must not be the meaning of “Justice is blind”

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/28/killed_in_cold_blood_alton_sterlings

3.27

Net Neutrality Defenders Issue Alert as Telecom Giants Ready to ‘Sic Army of Expensive Lawyers’ on States
Open internet defenders argued the threat underscores the importance of enshrining net neutrality protections in federal law
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*And you wonder why your bill’s so high … ?

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/27/net-neutrality-defenders-issue-alert-telecom-giants-ready-sic-army-expensive-lawyers

To Defeat NRA and Curb Gun Violence, Former Supreme Court Justice Says ‘Repeal the 2nd Amendment’
“That simple but dramatic action would move Saturday’s marchers closer to their objective than any other possible reform”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Makes perfect sense

So it doesn’t stand a snowball’s chance in this hell

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/27/defeat-nra-and-end-gun-violence-former-supreme-court-justice-says-repeal-2nd

Outrage, But Little Surprise, After Police Officers Face No Charges for Killing of Alton Sterling
“Neither Louisiana, nor any other U.S. state, complies with international standards that maintain deadly force can only be used when there is an imminent threat to life or serious injury”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Shoot first

Ask no questions later

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/27/outrage-little-surprise-after-police-officers-face-no-charges-killing-alton-sterling
—

Donald Trump and the White Ford Bronco Presidency
Because Big Brother isn’t watching you… you are watching him
by Tom Engelhardt

*The “negative treatment” Killer Clown has received over decades is the reason we’re afflicted by his sociopathy today.

If the corpress had simply covered his criminality, his bigotry and his misogyny in a diligent fashion, if he hadn’t been transformed into a reality show demigod, if he hadn’t been viewed as a cash cow for cable news and print media on the campaign trail, he might well be serving time in an orange jumpsuit to match his mane, or at least consigned to the footnotes of history, alongside the likes of other like minded lechers and con men with delusions of grandeur.

But they didn’t, because in the end he represents an America they may find gauche, but in essence is the essence of the capitalist ethic they hold sacrosanct.

And he’s good copy.

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/27/donald-trump-and-white-ford-bronco-presidency
–

Gun Violence and Mental Health Are Connected—But Not In The Way You’d Think.
The impulsive nature of teenage suicidality, coupled with the uniquely American easy access to guns, makes it much more likely that suicidal thoughts and behaviors will culminate in death
by Dr. Celine Gounder

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/27/gun-violence-and-mental-health-are-connected-not-way-youd-think
–

Natural gas: An underrated driver of Saudi hostility towards Iran and Qatar
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3542-natural-gas-an-underrated-driver-of-saudi-hostility-towards-iran-and-qatar
—

The Real News Network
Former Kinder Morgan Engineer Speaks Out Against Trans Mountain Pipeline
Romilly Cavanaugh, an environmental engineer who worked for Kinder Morgan, was arrested for participating in non-violent protests in Burnaby, British Columbia. She explains why she opposes the Trans Mountain tar sands pipeline

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21448:Former-Kinder-Morgan-Engineer-Speaks-Out-Against-Trans-Mountain-Pipeline

Former Black Panther Herman Bell to Be Released After 45 Years in Prison
After the New York State Parole Board determined Herman Bell’s release to be low risk and reasonable, New York police, aligned with tabloid news, went on a racist crusade depicting Bell as a threat

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21451:Former-Black-Panther-Herman-Bell-to-Be-Released-After-45-Years-in-Prison

3.26

‘The Gig Economy’ Is the New Term for Serfdom
The corporate architects of the new economy have no intention of halting the assault
by Chris Hedges

*Driven to despair

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/26/gig-economy-new-term-serfdom
–

Tipped Workers Win with Spending Bill
A provision nestled deep in the spending bill prevents employers from taking the tips their employees earn
by Negin Owliaei

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/26/tipped-workers-win-spending-bill
–

12 Rules for Spitting on the Poor
Collective action to right wrongs or help the suffering under neoliberal ideology is wrong, unfeasible, or some combination of the two
by Noah Berlatsky

*There is an “I” in “humanity”

And it only has meaning within the whole

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/26/12-rules-spitting-poor
—

Friends of the Earth
Trump’s Revisions of U.S. – Korea Trade Deal Promise More Air Pollution and Global Warming

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/03/26/trumps-revisions-us-korea-trade-deal-promise-more-air-pollution-and-global

Council of Canadians
Trudeau Breaking Another Electoral Reform Promise

*Falsedeau

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/03/26/trudeau-breaking-another-electoral-reform-promise
—

The Real News Network
The Political Currency of Mao’s Little Red Book
Anti-capitalism and anti-imperialism were some of the key points of agreement between Black anti-colonial activists and Chinese Communists, but under what heading is Afro-Asian solidarity expressed today?

*From the Little Red Book to the Big Black Ledger

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21394:The-Political-Currency-of-Mao%27s-Little-Red-Book

Paul Jay: Threats Facing Humanity, Basic Income & Importance of Historical Context
In the second part of the interview with the Senior Editor and founder of The Real News Network, Paul Jay, we continue the discussion on the threats facing humanity today. In addition we talk about whether the basic income could enhance political participation, and the consumption of information produced by independent media outlets. Lastly, we examine the importance of taking into account historical context when relating to current issues

*When history is written by the victors

The victims are written out

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21444:Paul-Jay%3A-Threats-Facing-Humanity%2C-Basic-Income-%26-Importance-of-Historical-Context

Real Media: Trade Secrets, Corporate Accountability & The War On Whistleblowers
Spinwatch’s David Miller explains the impact of the UK’s newly adopted EU directive protecting corporate secrets with no safeguards for journalists and whistleblowers

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21426:Real-Media%3A-Trade-Secrets%2C-Corporate-Accountability-%26-The-War-On-Whistleblowers

Bolton: A One-Man War Cabinet
North Korean peace and the Iran deal are both in serious danger with John Bolton in the White House, says historian and investigative journalist Gareth Porter

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21437:Bolton%3A-A-One-Man-War-Cabinet

Puerto Rico’s New Fiscal Plan Will Cause Another ‘Lost Decade’
Six months after Hurricane Maria, Puerto Rico’s new fiscal plan – which supposedly takes the hurricane’s devastation into account – will demand citizens pay off debts they cannot possibly repay, leading to deeper economic decline, says CEPR co-director Mark Weisbrot

*There is no expectation of “a different result”.

The goal is the maximizing of profit in the here and now

The future is an excised externality.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21433:Puerto-Rico%27s-New-Fiscal-Plan-Will-Cause-Another-%27Lost-Decade%27

Who Will Stop the US-Russia Arms Race?
As Trump faces heat for reportedly ignoring instructions to not congratulate newly re-elected Vladimir Putin, professor Stephen F. Cohen asks if anyone in Washington wants to stop the dangerous US-Russia arms race

*Calling Dr. Strangelove

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21428:Who-Will-Stop-the-US-Russia-Arms-Race%3F

President Xi Jinping’s Indefinite Rule Denounced by Chinese Intellectual
National People’s Congress of China re-elected President Xi Jinping to a second term and abolished term limits on the presidency. There were very little dissent allowed resisting the decision, but one critic, intellectual Li Datong, wrote an open letter challenging the decision, says China scholar, professor Jeffrey Wasserstrom

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21425:President-Xi-Jinping%27s-Indefinite-Rule-Denounced-by-Chinese-Intellectual

March For Our Lives Takes Aim at Gun Lobby, Acknowledges Racial Disparity
by Brandon Soderberg

*There will be an intense effort among those in power (including “liberal” Democrats) to divide and thus conquer this movement, using “school security” as a wedge.

Addressing the real fears of students and parents advocating for more cops, while remaining steadfast in an uncompromising stance that it is no more a solution than arming teachers, is the only way I see to get to where we need to be on this, and take it beyond silos to connect all the damnable dots extant.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21442:March-For-Our-Lives-Takes-Aim-at-Gun-Lobby%2C-Acknowledges-Racial-Disparity
—

Petition
Color Of Change
Guns Don’t Belong in Schools

*Will this movement make clear that more cops aren’t the answer? We know Dems will push that under the rubric of “school safety”, and I have to wonder how many of these young folks will swallow this caustic Kool-Aid.

https://act.colorofchange.org/sign/Keep_Our_Schools_Gun_Free
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
“Trump’s Choice of Bolton Satisfies His Biggest Donor”

*Whoever has his ear last

As there’s nothing between them

http://www.accuracy.org/release/trumps-choice-of-bolton-satisfies-his-biggest-donor
—

Democracy Now!
WATCH: Parkland Survivor Emma González Stands in 4 Minutes of Silence Heard Around the World

*This silence must end ours

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/26/watch_parkland_survivor_emma_gonzalez_stands

3.23

‘Dangerous’ Decline in Biodiversity Threatening Humanity’s Wellbeing Worldwide
“We must act to halt and reverse the unsustainable use of nature—or risk not only the future we want, but even the lives we currently lead”
byJessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/23/dangerous-decline-biodiversity-threatening-humanitys-wellbeing-worldwide
—

Workers Need an Industrial Policy Not Tariffs
by UE General Executive Board

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/364-socialist-project/3539-workers-need-an-industrial-policy-not-tariffs
–

Elections in Russia, 2018: Managed Democracy?
by David Mandel

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/765-david-mandel/3537-elections-in-russia-2018-managed-democracy
—

The Real News Network
Real Opinions: Students Are Screaming For Change — And It’s Coming
A. H. Berry, a student at Baltimore Polytechnic High School, explains why she joined her school’s walkout to protest gun violence in schools, and why standing in the cold with hundreds of other students gave her hope

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21440:Real-Opinions%3A-Students-Are-Screaming-For-Change—-And-It%27s-Coming

Marching for Their Lives: Students To Demand Gun Reform in DC
TRNN will report from the March For Our Lives and bring you voices of young people from cities like Baltimore who say gun violence has plagued their communities long before Parkland

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21432:Marching-for-Their-Lives%3A-Students-To-Demand-Gun-Reform-in-DC

Aggressive Police Tactics Escalate Against TransMountain Pipeline Protests in Canada
Indigenous environmental activist, Clayton Thomas-Muller of 350.org, says that not only did arrests take place outside exclusion zone, but police are escalating their aggression against non-violent land and water defenders with the aim of criminalizing peaceful dissent

*Dudley Do-Wrongs

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21419:Aggressive-Police-Tactics-Escalate-Against-TransMountain-Pipeline-Protests-in-Canada
—

Petition
Tell NYC Mayor to Stop Tolerating Racism in Schools
by Natasha Capers
NYC Coalition for Educational Justice

https://campaigns.organizefor.org/petitions/tell-nyc-mayor-to-stop-tolerating-racism-in-schools
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Bolton’s Falsifications for War

*Warmongerstrosity

http://www.accuracy.org/release/boltons-falsifications-for-war
—

FAIR
Journalism of, by and for the Elite
How the New York Times and Wall Street Journal mirror the 1% they cover
by Reed Richardson

*No kudos for this “class act”

https://fair.org/home/journalism-of-by-and-for-the-elite

National Geographic Looks at Its Racism–but Not Too Closely
by Janine Jackson

*A guilt trip to nowhere

https://fair.org/home/national-geographic-looks-at-its-racism-but-not-too-closely
—

Democracy Now!
Major New Investigation into Trump Real Estate Deals in India Reveals Corruption, Lawsuits, Fraud

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/23/major_new_investigation_into_trump_real

Meet the American Professor Suing Cambridge Analytica for His Psychographic Profile

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/23/meet_the_american_professor_suing_cambridge

3.22

Uproar After Congress Sneaks Attack on Digital Privacy Rights Into Omnibus Spending Bill
Attaching it to massive spending deal, lawmakers rush through controversial bill that allows law enforcement to hand over personal data without a warrant
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Sneaking the peeking

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/22/uproar-after-congress-sneaks-attack-digital-privacy-rights-omnibus-spending-bill

‘No Justice Under Occupation’: Palestinian Teenager Ahed Tamimi Gets 8 Months in Prison for Slapping Israeli Soldier
“17-year-old Ahed Tamimi will serve 8 months in jail for slapping a soldier who invaded her home. Meanwhile, IDF soldier Elor Azaria will serve 9 months for executing in cold-blood a wounded Palestinian.”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*A slap in the face of justice

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/22/no-justice-under-occupation-palestinian-teenager-ahed-tamimi-gets-8-months-prison
—

How To Change Your Facebook Settings To Opt Out of Platform API Sharing
Tech companies can and should do more to protect users, including giving users far more control over what data is collected and how that data is used
by Gennie Gebhart

*I suppose reposting this on Facebook can be viewed as ironic, but life in late stage capitalism is nothing if not that, innit?

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/22/how-change-your-facebook-settings-opt-out-platform-api-sharing
–

From ‘Sea to Shining Sea,’ Industrial Ag Fouls America’s Waterways
Given agriculture’s role in destroying our most precious natural resource, you’d think the U.S. Congress would do everything in its power to protect your water
by Katherine Paul

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/22/sea-shining-sea-industrial-ag-fouls-americas-waterways
–

Revealed: Names of ALEC Lobbyist and Legislator Members
by Jamie Corey

*Rats return to a stinking ship

https://www.exposedbycmd.org/2018/03/09/revealed-names-alec-lobbyist-legislator-members
—

FAIR
Exonerating the Empire in Venezuela
by Gregory Shupak

*American excisionalism

https://fair.org/home/exonerating-the-empire-in-venezuela
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
The Real Threat: Facebook and Google’s Business Model

*Like parent

Like “prodigy”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/the-real-threat-facebook-and-googles-business-model
—

Democracy Now!
Reformer or War Criminal? Saudi Crown Prince Welcomed in U.S. as Trump Touts Weapons Deals

*Red carpet for a carpet bomber

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/22/reformer_or_war_criminal_saudi_crown

Are Israel & Saudi Arabia Pressuring U.S. Toward War with Iran?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/22/are_israel_saudi_arabia_pressuring_us

3.21

Alarm Sounds After EU Regulators Greenlight Bayer-Monsanto #MergerFromHell
Critics of the deal warn the decision will allow the companies, “together with BASF, to become data giants in agriculture—the ‘Facebooks of farming’—with all the pitfalls that entails”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/21/alarm-sounds-after-eu-regulators-greenlight-bayer-monsanto-mergerfromhell

ACLU Urges Greyhound to Stop Letting Border Agents Use Buses as ‘Rolling Traps’
“Greyhound should be in the business of transporting passengers, but instead is allowing intimidating interrogations and searches”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/21/aclu-urges-greyhound-stop-letting-border-agents-use-buses-rolling-traps

#ToxicTwitter: Human Rights Group Says Platform Creates Abusive Environment for Women
“Ensuring an internet free from gender-based violence enhances freedom of expression as it allows women to fully participate in all areas of life”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/21/toxictwitter-human-rights-group-says-platform-creates-abusive-environment-women
—

Billionaires Won’t Save the World — Just Look at Elon Musk
The “playboy genius” is essentially squandering taxpayer money on pet projects like Mars trips and flamethrowers
by Sam Pizzigati

*The musky smell of snake oil

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/21/billionaires-wont-save-world-just-look-elon-musk
–

Survivors Need Shelter, But Shelters Need Legal Protection In Iraq
Despite the unprecedented security crisis, it remains against public policy for Iraqi NGOs to provide shelter for those escaping gender-based violence
by Lisa Davis

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/21/survivors-need-shelter-shelters-need-legal-protection-iraq
–

It’s Time to Transform the War Economy
The Poor People’s Campaign offers an antidote to a poisoned and militarized culture that has perverted the national agenda
by Brock McIntosh

*Issue silos can be as deadly as missile silos

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/21/its-time-transform-war-economy
—

Amnesty International – USA
Iraq: Alarming Reports of More Than 3,000 People Facing Death Over Terror-Related Offenses

*Life in a liberated land

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/03/21/iraq-alarming-reports-more-3000-people-facing-death-over-terror-related-offenses

Louisiana Bucket Brigade
St. James Site of 37 Petrochemical Accidents, No Bayou Bridge Jobs

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/03/21/st-james-site-37-petrochemical-accidents-no-bayou-bridge-jobs
—

The Real News Network
Duterte’s Bloody War on Philippines’ Leftists
Increasingly authoritarian President Rodrigo Duterte is planning to classify hundreds of leftists as terrorists as he cracks down on the country’s powerful communist movement. We speak to Cristina Palabay, the secretary general of KARAPATAN, and Teddy Casinos, a former congressman and representative of the Bayan Muna party

*Killer Clown’s wet dream

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21411:Duterte%27s-Bloody-War-on-Philippines%27-Leftists

A Rare Glimpse Inside a Police Body-Camera Review Unit
Following the release of controversial footage that showed Baltimore police officers staging the discovery of evidence, The Real News was given exclusive access to the special unit that now reviews all body-cam footage related to upcoming cases

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21396:A-Rare-Glimpse-Inside-a-Police-Body-Camera-Review-Unit

Trump Boasts of Killer Arms Sales in Meeting with Saudi Dictator, Using Cartoonish Charts
Trump kicked off his White House meeting with his authoritarian “good friend” Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman by pulling out charts listing the weapons the U.S. is selling to Saudi Arabia – Ben Norton reports

*Scorched earth and campaign strategy

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21415:Trump-Boasts-of-Killer-Arms-Sales-in-Meeting-with-Saudi-Dictator%2C-Using-Cartoonish-Charts

Protester Arrested At State House: Gov. Hogan Would Not Drink Water Contaminated by Fracking
Officials have issued a permit for a natural gas pipeline to be routed through Maryland, but opponents say so-called protective measures not enough
by Dharna Noor

*Water torture

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21416:Protester-Arrested-At-State-House%3A-Gov.-Hogan-Would-Not-Drink-Water-Contaminated-by-Fracking
—

Democracy Now!
“The Battle for Paradise”: Naomi Klein on Disaster Capitalism & the Fight for Puerto Rico’s Future

*An island sinking in a sea of snake oil

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/21/the_battle_for_paradise_naomi_klein

Six Months After Maria, Residents Resist Efforts to Turn Island into Privatized Bitcoin Playground

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/21/six_months_after_maria_residents_resist

After Maria, Puerto Ricans Cultivate Food Sovereignty While FEMA Delivered Skittles & Cheez-Its

*Junk food and greenwashed garbage

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/21/after_maria_puerto_ricans_cultivate_food

3.20

As Lawmakers Accuse DeVos of Lack of Regard for Students, Her Own Staffer Admits ‘Things Have Gotten Pretty Awful Here’
“What do you mean, there’s no data?” a lawmaker asked Secretary of Education during tense hearing. “There is study after study after study.”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Cheat notes

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/20/lawmakers-accuse-devos-lack-regard-students-her-own-staffer-admits-things-have
—

It’s Not Just Drug Dealers That Need to Worry About Inspiration Trump Took From Duterte
The battle between autocratic leaders and the global movement for environmental justice heats up
by Nick Meynen

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/20/its-not-just-drug-dealers-need-worry-about-inspiration-trump-took-duterte
—

The Real News Network
Mercer’s Cambridge Analytica ‘Utterly Sleazy’
Britain’s Channel 4 details the dirty tricks that Cambridge Analytica, the data-mining company owned by billionaire Robert Mercer, uses to sway elections around the world. If the story is true, it would mean the company is not only sleazy, but also blatantly criminal, says white-collar criminologist Bill Black

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21413:Mercer%27s-Cambridge-Analytica-%27Utterly-Sleazy%27

After a Shooting at His School, a Maryland Teacher Speaks Out
Pat Elder, who teaches GED classes at Great Mills High, says to end gun violence America must tackle the militarization of schools and broader society

*As often occurs, a righteous impulse gets siloed into accepted avenues of action. Thus, no mention of militarism.

As well, will the desire for “safer schools” translate into advocacy for more “resource officers”?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21410:After-a-Shooting-at-His-School%2C-a-Maryland-Teacher-Speaks-Out

‘Samantha Em-Powers Genocide in Yemen’: Students Protest US Role in Saudi War
Ex-U.N. ambassador and liberal war hawk Samantha Power faced a protest at Johns Hopkins University over her role overseeing the catastrophic U.S.-Saudi war on Yemen. A student leader speaks about the military-industrial-academic complex – Ben Norton reports.

*An empirical education in empire

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21408:%27Samantha-Em-Powers-Genocide-in-Yemen%27%3A-Students-Protest-US-Role-in-Saudi-War

In Afrin the Turks are Looting and Pillaging with Gunfire
Journalist for the Independent, Patrick Cockburn, returning from Northern Syria, says one of the most peaceful places in the region has turned into a swamp of human misery for the Kurds

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21399:In-Afrin-the-Turks-are-Looting-and-Pillaging-with-Gunfire
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Instructor at Great Mills HS Leads Campaign to Demilitarize Schools

http://www.accuracy.org/release/instructor-at-great-mills-hs-leads-campaign-to-demilitarize-schools
—

FAIR
YouTube as Conspiracy Conduit
Video platform enables harassment of shooting survivors
by Justin Anderson

*Why is it that Fox News is almost always one of my “recommended” channels?

I never watch it, and informing YouTube that I’m “not interested” doesn’t do a damn bit of good.

Is Fox paying for placement, or is that a “conspiracy theory”?

https://fair.org/home/youtube-as-conspiracy-conduit

In Run-Up to Vote to End Yemen War, MSNBC Remains Totally Silent
MSNBC outflanked from the left by Breitbart
by Jim Naureckas

*I wouldn’t prefer any network to “lead” “anti-war sentiment”

I’d want them to honestly cover those who honestly seek to end this nightmare.

I know … dream on.

https://fair.org/home/in-run-up-to-vote-to-end-yemen-war-msnbc-remains-totally-silent

Democracy Now!
“It Was a Crime”: 15 Years After U.S. Invasion, Iraqis Still Face Trauma, Destruction & Violence

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/20/a_criminal_war_15_years_after

Undocumented and Unpaid, Until Now: Houston Day Laborers Fight Wage Theft After Hurricane Harvey

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/20/undocumented_and_unpaid_until_now_houston

Voices from Houston After Harvey: Immigrant Homeowners Say Little to No Help Coming from FEMA

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/20/voices_from_houston_after_harvey_immigrant

3.19

In ‘Full-on War on Drugs Scare-Fest,’ Trump Proposes Death Penalty and ‘Very, Very Bad’ Commercials
In his speech on the opioid epidemic, the president promoted his plan to build a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border and suggested that an advertising campaign would keep Americans from using drugs
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*An acute addiction to demagoguery

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/19/full-war-drugs-scare-fest-trump-proposes-death-penalty-and-very-very-bad-commercials

‘Insidious’ and ‘Dangerous’: Digital Privacy Groups Issue Urgent Warning Over CLOUD Act
Critics say the bill, which could be pushed through Congress this week, would enable U.S. authorities to skirt Fourth Amendment rights to collect Americans’ data and use it against them
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/19/insidious-and-dangerous-digital-privacy-groups-issue-urgent-warning-over-cloud-act

Despite Possible Blowback, Snowden Decries Anti-Democratic Forces in Russia
“My friends tell me it is dangerous to criticize the Russian government the same as I criticize my own. But each of us are given a limited number of days to make a difference. Life is a choice to live for something, or to die for nothing.”
by Jon Queally, staff writer
Common Dreams

*You can’t stand for your principles on one foot

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/19/despite-possible-blowback-snowden-decries-anti-democratic-forces-russia
—

Google, Facebook, Algorithms, and the Building of the Iron Wall
This totalitarianism is being formed incrementally. It begins by silencing the demonized. It ends by silencing everyone.
by Chris Hedges

*Sleepwalking toward a nightmare

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/19/google-facebook-algorithms-and-building-iron-wall
–

A 2% Financial Wealth Tax Would Provide a $12,000 Annual Stipend to Every American Household
Careful analysis reveals a number of excellent arguments for the implementation of a Universal Basic Income
by Paul Buchheit

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/19/2-financial-wealth-tax-would-provide-12000-annual-stipend-every-american-household
–

Keeping Power With the People: Puerto Rico’s Energy Future
by Sean Sweeney

*The Musks and Bransons are deeply concerned with “sustainability”

Of their profit margins

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/407-sean-sweeney/3534-keeping-power-with-the-people-puerto-ricos-energy-future
–

The CIA’s 60-Year History of Fake News: How the Deep State Corrupted Many American Writers
by Robert Scheer

*The victims can’t rationalize their horror

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/331-robert-scheer/3530-the-cias-60-year-history-of-fake-news-how-the-deep-state-corrupted-many-american-writers
—

Racial Justice Groups Sue DHS to Release Contents of Fully Redacted “Race Paper”
Document Raises Questions About Escalating Government Surveillance and Criminalization of Black Activists

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/03/19/racial-justice-groups-sue-dhs-release-contents-fully-redacted-race-paper

Public Citizen
NIH Officials May Have Violated Policy by Soliciting Donations From Alcohol Industry for Alcohol Study
Public Citizen Urges HHS Inspector General to Launch Formal Investigation

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/03/19/nih-officials-may-have-violated-policy-soliciting-donations-alcohol-industry
—

The Real News Network
Petroleum Executives Visit Trump, Increasing Offshore Oil Drilling
The American Petroleum Industry (API) and the Independent Petroleum Association of America (IPAA) held meetings at the Trump Hotel in DC. At the same time, these associations are also lobbying the Trump administration for an expansion of offshore oil exploration

*Where oil and water malignantly mix

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21389:Petroleum-Executives-Visit-Trump%2C-Increasing-Offshore-Oil-Drilling

Corbyn Allies in Labour Attacked For Supporting Palestinian Struggle
The strategy to undermine Jeremy Corbyn within the Labour Party includes charging his supporters with anti-Semitism and then suspending them, says Richard Kuper of Jewish Voice for Labour

*It’s unclear to me from this segment what Corbyn’s stance is with regard to this witchhunt. There’s no mention of his speaking out or taking action as party leader to oppose it.

It took a great deal of chutzpah to demand proof of Russian complicity in the nerve agent attack, and he should show the same here. If he isn’t, it’s incumbent on folks like Kuper to call him on it.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21381:Corbyn-Allies-in-Labour-Attacked-For-Supporting-Palestinian-Struggle

Kochs and ALEC Behind Criminalization of Dissent Bills in Five States
Iowa, Ohio, Oklahoma,Wyoming, Minnesota and Louisiana have introduced or passed legislation to criminalize environmental dissent. There is evidence that bill mill organizations such as ALEC and the bipartisan group Council of State Governments (CSG) had their hand in shaping these bills, says investigative journalist Steve Horne.

*A pipeline to a police state

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21299:Kochs-and-ALEC-Behind-Criminalization-of-Dissent-Bills-in-Five-States
—

FAIR
Copspeak: When Black Children Suddenly Become ‘Juveniles’
by Adam Johnson and Jim Naureckas

https://fair.org/home/copspeak-when-black-children-suddenly-become-juveniles
—

Got insomnia?
Who couldn’t use a little more sleep? Or at least a little more good-quality sleep. Here’s what can help…and what’s a waste of money.
by Caitlin Dow
Nutrition Action

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/dietary-supplements/got-insomnia

3.16

As Trump Fights to Kill Chemical Safety Rule, Workers Injured as Massive Explosion Rocks Texas Chemical Plant
The EPA was in court on Friday to defend against its decision to delay implementation of federal regulations that aim to prevent this type of disaster
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Environmental Proscription Agency

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/16/trump-fights-kill-chemical-safety-rule-workers-injured-massive-explosion-rocks-texas
—

The Third Newsletter: Water and Farmers
by Vijay Prashad

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/132-more-blog-posts-from-vijay-prashad/3528-the-third-newsletter-water-and-farmers
–

The Real Irish-American History Not Taught in Schools
Sadly, today’s corporate textbook-producers are no more interested in feeding student curiosity about the poverty and inequality that drove the famine than were British landlords interested in feeding Irish peasants
by Bill Bigelow

*A famine of expository facts

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/16/real-irish-american-story-not-taught-schools
–

An Open Letter on Behalf of the “English for Reconciliation” Project in Najaf
by Martha Hayward

*A true “humanitarian intervention”

http://vcnv.org/2018/03/14/english-for-reconciliation-in-najaf-martha-hayward
—

The Real News Network
West’s Anti-Russian Fervor Will Help Putin Win Elections On Sunday
As Russia heads into a presidential election on Sunday, Vladimir Putin’s popularity soars with every accusation and sanction Western countries hurl against him, says Prof. Alexander Buzgalin

*The irony of false or unproven accusations is that they allow those vilified to dismiss the proof of their actual crimes.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21385:Escalating-Tensions-Between-Russia-and-the-West-Helps-Governments-on-Both-Sides

Corbyn Smeared as ‘Russian Stooge’ for Requesting Evidence on Poisoned Spy
While harshly condemning the Salisbury nerve agent attack, the Labour Party’s leftist leader requested evidence that the Russian government carried it out. A deluge of smears followed.

*Reason is treason

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21380:Corbyn-Smeared-as-%27Russian-Stooge%27-for-Requesting-Evidence-on-Poisoned-Spy

Corbyn Calls for Evidence in Escalating Poison Row
For requesting evidence of Russian culpability in the poisoning of former spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter, UK Labour Leader Jeremy Corbyn has been denounced by PM Theresa May and even members of his own party. We discuss the case with Stephen F. Cohen, Professor Emeritus of Russian Studies at New York University and Princeton

*Not that I think Corbyn is Jesus on a stick, but Cohen’s spot on in his claim that no pol in the US would have the cojones to do as he has.

That cowardice may lead to catastrophic consequences for us all.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21371:Corbyn-Calls-for-Evidence-in-Escalating-Poison-Row

Sanders Resolution Against War in Yemen Challenged by Mattis
Senators introduced legislation that would undermine the Sanders-Lee resolution to stop US support for Saudi Arabia’s war in Yemen. “They’re trying to provide cover for just a handful of senators so they can vote for this instead of the Sanders Lee bill,” says CEPR’s Mark Weisbrot

*While this bill needs to pass, keep in mind the “detail devil” that will allow US troops to remain to “combat Al Qaeda and allied groups”, or however it’s worded.

We know how that facilitates “mission creep”, leaving aside the ethics of the proclaimed mission itself.

Isn’t part of the mission of “alternative” media to pay attention to such “details”, so that their audience will, as well?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21378:Sanders-Resolution-Against-War-in-Yemen-Challenged-by-Mattis
—

Democracy Now!
50 Years After My Lai Massacre in Vietnam, Revisiting the Slaughter the U.S. Military Tried to Hide

*Duty

Honor

Country

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/16/50_years_after_my_lai_massacre

The GI Resistance Continues: Vietnam Vets Return to My Lai, Where U.S. Slaughtered 500 Civilians

*These are servicemembers worthy of salute.

No monuments will be erected in their honor.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/16/the_gi_resistance_continues_vietnam_vets

3.15

Breaking the ICE
How far will this go?
by Robert C. Koehler

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/15/breaking-ice
–

All Hands on Deck: The West Virginia Teachers’ Strike
by Jane McAlevey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/764-jane-mcalevey/3527-all-hands-on-deck-the-west-virginia-teachers-strike
—

The Real News Network
Senate Expands ‘Lobbyist Bill’ to Deregulate Real Estate
New measures added to the financial deregulation bill include the deregulation of commercial real estate, which threatens re-create the conditions that led to the 2008 financial crisis, says Bill Black

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21354:Senate-Expands-%27Lobbyist-Bill%27-to-Deregulate-Real-Estate

Stephen Hawking: The Fighter for Progressive Politics
Scientist Stephen Hawking spoke out against wars, called for action against climate change, and defended socialist programs

*All of which will receive next to no mention, if not complete erasure, in the corpress, as his social conscience is castrated as a condition of iconization.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21376:Stephen-Hawking%3A-The-Fighter-for-Progressive-Politics

Far-Right Ministers in Chile’s New Government Placed in Sensitive Positions
Chile’s newly inaugurated president Sebastian Piñera attempts to move the country to the right, but faces important constraints from social movements that vow to resist his government, explains Prof. Rene Rojas

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21370:Far-Right-Ministers-in-Chile%27s-New-Government-Placed-in-Sensitive-Positions

Trump’s Tariff Travesty Will Not Re-Industrialize the US
Trump’s steel and aluminum tariffs will only make it more difficult for US producers that depend on these resources, while also initiating trade retaliation from trade partners, says Michael Hudson

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21353:Trump%27s-Tariff-Travesty-Will-Not-Re-Industrialize-the-US

Is Another World Possible? – Leo Panitch on RAI (4/4)
On Reality Asserts Itself, Prof. Leo Panitch says it’s a dilemma that the gradualism of European social-democracy and attempts at a more radical transformation have so far both failed; Panitch says a first step towards democratizing the economy is to make finance a public utility – with host Paul Jay

*Is it naïve of me to believe that we have no chance of becoming a truly evolved species – or even simply surviving – if we don’t place a principal priority on giving wings to the better angels of our nature, as well as appealing to our self interest?

Humanity has a seemingly limitless capacity for hypocrisy, and that actually gives me some hope, as it implies a need to acknowledge a moral imperative.

So how do we move from lip service to putting our muscle behind our mouths?

I suppose asking the question evinces the eternal elusiveness of the answer, but I believe it’s existentially essential to continue to pursue it.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21338:Is-Another-World-Possible%3F—Leo-Panitch-on-RAI-%2844%29
—

FAIR
‘A Remarkable Victory for the Labor Movement’
CounterSpin interview with Mike Elk on West Virginia school workers strike
by Janine Jackson

*I’m unclear as to the funding aspect, given what’s claimed in the piece below

https://tinyurl.com/yaaq9mes

I don’t feel you can claim “victory” if it comes at another’s undue expense

So what’s the true skinny here?

https://fair.org/home/a-remarkable-victory-for-the-labor-movement

Liberals, Conservatives Worry About Korean Peace Threat
by Gregory Shupak

*Given the trail of broken promises that litter his lurid career path, I’m more concerned with just how “earnest” Killer Clown will be than Kim.

https://fair.org/home/liberals-conservatives-worry-about-korean-peace-threat
—

Democracy Now!
Farmworkers Bring Human Rights Fight to Wendy’s Doorstep, Fasting & Calling for Boycott over Abuses

*Arrogance and avarice

With a side of lies

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/15/farmworkers_bring_human_rights_fight_to

Jeremy Scahill on Trump’s Cabinet Shake-up, the Mueller Probe & the Iraq War 15 Years Later

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/15/jeremy_scahill_on_trump_s_cabinet

3.14

Despite Torture-Loving Pasts, Schumer Not Pushing Democrats to Oppose Pompeo or Haspel
Trump’s nominees for secretary of state and CIA director have alarming pasts, but the Senate Minority Leader isn’t encouraging his party to oppose their nominations
by Andrea Germanos, staff writer
Common Dreams

*If there were no Democratic Party

The Republicans would have to invent one

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/14/despite-torture-loving-pasts-schumer-not-pushing-democrats-oppose-pompeo-or-haspel

It Is Now Abundantly Clear Why Steve Mnuchin Didn’t Want People to See This Video
Free speech advocates called it “troubling” that a White House official was able to delay release of a video that is, under California law, part of the public record
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/14/it-now-abundantly-clear-why-steve-mnuchin-didnt-want-people-see-video
—

Don Blankenship, Dead Miners, Humility, and the Limits of Free Speech in West Virginia
A call came in and there was a man who wanted to know if I had any questions for the former coal CEO and convict now running for U.S. Senate. Turns out I did have one.
by Russell Mokhiber

*Severed connection

Sundered conscience

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/14/don-blankenship-dead-miners-humility-and-limits-free-speech-west-virginia
—

Israeli Lawmakers Ban Member of Knesset from American Trip Funded by Jewish Voice for Peace
MK Jabareen invited for series of talks about deterioration of democracy in Israel

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/03/14/israeli-lawmakers-ban-member-knesset-american-trip-funded-jewish-voice-peace
—

The Real News Network
UN Rapporteur: US Sanctions Cause Death in Venezuela
Over 150 intellectuals and activists signed an open letter urging the US and Canada to stop their economic sanctions on Venezuela, which are making the country’s economic problems worse. Special UN Rapporteur Alfred de Zayas is a signer and visited Venezuela late last year

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21343:UN-Rapporteur%3A-US-Sanctions-Cause-Death-in-Venezuela

Anti-Pipeline Indigenous ‘Mass Mobilization’ Has Begun
In what may become the ‘Standing Rock of the North’, thousands protest Kinder Morgan’s Trans-Mountain Pipeline expansion, which would carry more toxic tar sands through First Nation territories

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21366:Anti-Pipeline-Indigenous-%27Mass-Mobilization%27-Has-Begun

Colombia’s Conservatives Make Gains in Congress Vote Amid Fraud Allegations
Low turnout and fraud allegations mar Colombia’s congressional vote, which gave conservatives a greater control over the legislature. If right-wing candidate Ivan Duque also wins the presidency in May, it would spell the end of Colombia’s peace process, explains Mario Murillo

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21341:Colombia%27s-Conservatives-Make-Gains-in-Congress-Vote-Amid-Fraud-Allegations
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
“Space Force”: Trump Accelerating Aerospace Goal Targeting China and Russia

*No space for peace

http://www.accuracy.org/release/space-force-trump-accelerating-aerospace-goal-targeting-china-and-russia
—

FAIR
WaPo Fails to Disclose Ownership in Puff Piece for Bezos

https://fair.org/home/wapo-fails-to-disclose-ownership-in-puff-piece-for-bezos
—

Democracy Now!
Trump’s New CIA Nominee, Gina Haspel, Faces Possible Arrest Warrant in Germany over Torture

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/14/trumps_new_cia_nominee_gina_haspel

Jeremy Scahill: Gina Haspel Should Be Answering for Her Torture Crimes, Not Heading the CIA

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/14/jeremy_scahill_gina_haspel_should_be

Mike Pompeo, Christian Crusader & Koch Brothers Ally, Tapped to Be Trump’s Secretary of State

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/14/mike_pompeo_christian_crusader_koch_brothers

Congresswoman Confirms Erik Prince Tied to Assassination Program Run Out of Dick Cheney’s Office

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/14/congresswoman_confirms_erik_prince_tied_to
—

Nutrition Action
How a multivitamin could help if you’re taking a common blood-sugar drug

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/dietary-supplements/how-a-multivitamin-could-help-if-youre-taking-a-common-blood-sugar-drug

3.13

If We Want to Support Refugees, We Need To End the Wars That Create Them
The sanctuary movement needs an anti-war voice
by Azadeh Shahshahani and Maha Hilal

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/13/if-we-want-support-refugees-we-need-end-wars-create-them
–

Talking Sense About Immigration
On the necessity of rejecting the president’s Manichaean worldview
by Aviva Chomsky

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/13/talking-sense-about-immigration
–

Turkey’s Privatization of Sugar Factories
by Kubilay Cenk

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/763-kubilay-cenk/3526-turkeys-privatization-of-sugar-factories
—

The Real News Network
US Cowardice Prevents Middle East Peace
A majority of United Nations members support a just resolution to the Israel-Palestine conflict, but U.S. political cowardice and the influential Israel Lobby thwart it, says veteran UN correspondent Ian Williams

*There’s no integrity to voting for something you know won’t pass. I have to wonder how many nations would do so if a “just resolution” were a distinct possibility, rather than some pallid compromise that would please Abu Mazen and rest of the Palestinian “leadership”.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21275:US-Cowardice-Prevents-Middle-East-Peace

Elites Impose Education Policies They Would Never Accept for their Children (4/4)
In the final part of our interview with author Noliwe Rooks, we examine some of the reforms that the likes of Betsy DeVos have mandated for poor children but would never be accepted for the wealthy

*The tests of ill wills

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21349:Elites-Impose-Education-Policies-They-Would-Never-Accept-for-their-Children-%2844%29
—

Petition
#Apology4JaneDoe
by Bonnie T

https://www.change.org/p/nypd-apology4janedoe
—

FAIR
Republicans Want to Look at Gun Violence in Movies? OK, Let’s Look
by J.F. Sargent

*The bullet pulpit

https://fair.org/home/republicans-want-to-look-at-gun-violence-in-movies-ok-lets-look
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Trump’s Nominees: Pompeo at State, Haspel at CIA: * Targeting Iran * Torture

http://www.accuracy.org/release/trumps-nominees-pompeo-at-state-haspel-at-cia-targeting-iran-torture

Now: “Another Big Bank Bailout”

*Banking on bipartisan blessings

http://www.accuracy.org/release/now-another-big-bank-bailout-interviews-available
—

Democracy Now!
Charterize, Privatize, Christianize: The DeVos-Backed Policies That “Gutted” Michigan Public Schools

*In Jesus’ name

Mayhem

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/13/charterize_privatize_christianize_the_devos_backed

Critics of Bayou Bridge Pipeline in Louisiana Decry State & Company Surveillance of Protesters

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/13/critics_of_bayou_bridge_pipeline_in

3.12

Angering Organic Farmers and Advocates, Trump’s USDA Kills Animal Welfare Rule
The rule would have “specified a set of standards for organic livestock and poultry designed to minimize stress, facilitate natural behaviors, and promote well-being”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/12/angering-organic-farmers-and-advocates-trumps-usda-kills-animal-welfare-rule
—

Nebraska Is Illegally Obtaining and Storing Execution Drugs in Defiance of Federal Law
“We all have one more reason to conclude that the state has no business executing human beings”
by Danielle Conrad

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/12/nebraska-illegally-obtaining-and-storing-execution-drugs-defiance-federal-law
–

The Tide it is a Changin’
Mainstream media starts reporting on the militarization of America’s schools
by Pat Elder

http://worldbeyondwar.org/the-tide-it-is-a-changin
—

Amnesty International
Bangladesh: International Support for Rohingya Refugees Is Urgently Needed

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/03/12/bangladesh-international-support-rohingya-refugees-urgently-needed
—

The Real News Network
Democracy in Crisis: Pseudonymous Sex and Anonymous Experts
As Donald Trump and Stormy Daniels prepare to battle over an NDA, federal prosecutors seek anonymity for expert on “black bloc”
by Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21345:Democracy-in-Crisis%3A-Pseudonymous-Sex-and-Anonymous-Experts

From BDS to the Tamimis, Palestinians Defend Their Rights
The Electronic Intifada’s Ali Abunimah says US-backed Israeli efforts to criminalize the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions Movement and to silence protesters like the Tamimi family are backfiring as Palestinians and their allies fight back

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21274:From-BDS-to-the-Tamimis%2C-Palestinians-Defend-Their-Rights

Will Trump Help Saudi Arabia Build a Nuclear Program?
Media reports say the U.S. is considering selling nuclear reactors to Saudi Arabia. Analyst Ali al-Ahmed is skeptical, and says Trump has just removed the fig leaf of concern for human rights abuses by the Gulf dictatorship

*A nuclear energy program is preferable to a nuclear weapons program

Expect perhaps for the people in places like Chernobyl and Fukushima who pay the true price for it.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21324:Will-Trump-Help-Saudi-Arabia-Build-a-Nuclear-Program%3F

Why the Panic over Korea Peace Talks? (2/2)
As President Trump and Kim Jong-Un agree to historic talks, centrist voices are expressing alarm based on a self-serving and false reading of history, says Timothy Shorrock

*Whatever Killer Clown appears to want, these schmenges will oppose, regardless of the merits of the matter.

Now, what he may actually want is a way to say “We tried. Diplomacy failed. All options are back on the table.”

In which case, he’ll be deemed “Presidential” ™ by these same b*stards, because warmongering is never out of bipartisan style, is it?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21333:Why-the-Panic-over-Korea-Peace-Talks%3F-%2822%29

Israel Lobby Doesn’t Want Al Jazeera to Spill its Secrets
Qatar is under pressure to bury an undercover Al Jazeera documentary that exposes the Israel Lobby in the US. Asa Winstanley of the Electronic Intifada says the film’s key revelations include the close cooperation between the neocon Foundation for the Defense of Democracies and the Israeli government

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21316:Israel-Lobby-Doesn%27t-Want-Al-Jazeera-to-Spill-its-Secrets

Debate: Syria, Ghouta, and the Left
In a complex proxy war that has killed so many, where should leftists and people of conscience stand? Independent journalist Rania Khalek and scholar Yasser Munif debate the ongoing siege of Eastern Ghouta and the wider Syrian war

*I don’t pretend to have some perfect solution to this horror show. I just try to keep my eyes, mind and heart open, with the people of Syria as my focus, and their tormentors – from any side – as my bane.

What serves no valid purpose is what I see as ad hominem attacks on those with whom we disagree, as I feel Munif has engaged in here. I think he has a point in criticizing Khalek’s diminishment of the brutality of the Assad regime and its allies, but that can be made without such vitriol.

His lip service to opposition of US actions, while all but ignoring it in his analysis, strikes me as disingenuous, as well. Khalek could be cited for similar with regard to Russia, Iran and Hezbollah.

All that said, I’d like to think that both seek justice and peace for the people of Syria, and I hope that all others who wish the same can find some way to resolve our differences, and work together to achieve that goal.

Perhaps a forlorn hope, but there it is …

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21337:Debate%3A-Syria%2C-Ghouta%2C-and-the-Left

The Threats, Real and Imagined, of Mexico’s Election
by Mark Weisbrot

*I’d amend the penultimate sentence to read “with a chance to win”, as it ignores the Zapatista candidate, Marichuy, although at least one commenter, diogenes, states that her presence “is simply to make their presence felt in the mainstream, as representatives of the excluded. It’s a middle finger.”

Of course, the EZLN are pursuing something beyond “reform”, aren’t they?

http://www.therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/3525

Putin, Trump, and the Nuclear Danger (2/2)
As Vladimir Putin unveils new weaponry, MIT Professor Theodore Postol says that the US withdrawal from a key arms control treaty, an increased killing capacity, and Trump’s “dangerous and uninformed” strategy has compounded the nuclear threat

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21331:Putin%2C-Trump%2C-and-the-Nuclear-Danger-%2822%29
—

Petition
Take Action to End Exploitation at LA’s port
by Omar Alvarez and Dwayne Wilson
Justice for Port Drivers

https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/take-action-to-end-exploitation-at-las-port

Petition
Tell Coca-Cola the NCAA must #PayThePlayers
by Frank Derry
Color of Change

*Flagrant foul

https://campaigns.organizefor.org/petitions/coca-cola-is-putting-stocks-over-students-tell-them-to-stop-funding-the-ncaa
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Trump, Death Penalty and Drug Addiction: What’s at the Root of the Problem?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/drug-addiction-whats-at-the-root-of-the-problem

DeVos’s Record in Michigan

*Choice cuts

http://www.accuracy.org/release/devoss-record-in-michigan
—

FAIR
‘Modernization’: Media’s Favorite Euphemism for Military Buildup
by Adam Johnson

*Never gonna fall for “modern” love

https://fair.org/home/modernization-medias-favorite-euphemism-for-military-buildup
—

How Does BEC5 Cream Heal Skin Cancer?
by Dr. Gaston Cornu-Labat

*Employ your own best judgment

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/bec5-cream-video

Hyperthermia Therapy: Using Heat to Help Heal Cancer
by Dr. Veronique Desaulniers

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/hyperthermia-treatment

Iodine Deficiency Symptoms (& How to Get Enough Iodine)
by Ty Bollinger

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/iodine-deficiency-symptoms

3.9

Nearly 800 Quebec Doctors Demand Their Pay Raises Go To Nurses, Improving Healthcare Overall
“These increases are all the more shocking because our nurses, clerks, and other professionals face very difficult working conditions, while our patients live with the lack of access to required services because of the drastic cuts in recent years”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/09/nearly-800-quebec-doctors-demand-their-pay-raises-go-nurses-improving-healthcare

Ahead of Major Protest to Stop Kinder Morgan Pipeline, Company Files Injunction Against Water Protectors
“Kinder Morgan is intimidating environmentalists who are standing up for B.C. against a dirty tar sands pipeline”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/09/ahead-major-protest-stop-kinder-morgan-pipeline-company-files-injunction-against
—

What the Koch Brothers Want Students to Learn About Slavery
The history-teaching wing of the Koch brothers empire is seeking to promote an alternate narrative to slavery
by Adam Sanchez

*A history written in past perfect

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/09/what-koch-brothers-want-students-learn-about-slavery
–

Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament
Protesters Mark 7th Anniversary of Fukushima Disaster

*A disaster we can’t wait to happen again

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/03/09/protesters-mark-7th-anniversary-fukushima-disaster
—

The Real News Network
Trump’s Monumental Betrayal: Public Antiquities Gutted for Oil Industry
It has been revealed that not only did Trump cut both Bears Ears and Grand Staircase Escalante National Monuments for industry to access fossil fuels but that the President’s announcement came on the heels of one of the rarest finds of Triassic period fossils in an area now excluded from protection, by Trump’s new monument boundaries

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21308:Trump%27s-Monumental-Betrayal%3A-Public-Antiquities-Gutted-for-Oil-Industry

Obama & DeVos: Education Reform Based on ‘Segronomics’ is Doomed to Fail
In Part Four, Noliwe Rooks says data reveals no educational benefit from the billions of stimulus funding poured into schools by the Obama administration and school vouchers championed by Education Secretary Betsy DeVos

*Getting schooled

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21271:Obama-%26-DeVos%3A-Education-Reform-Based-on-%27Segronomics%27-is-Doomed-to-Fail
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
U.S.-North Korea: Victory for President Moon?

*Is this a set up to prove “Diplomacy doesn’t work”?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/u-s-north-korea-victory-for-president-moon

Saudi Arabia Using Law Firm Tied to Trump to Lobby U.S. for Nuclear Deal

http://www.accuracy.org/release/saudi-arabia-using-law-firm-tied-to-trump-to-lobby-u-s-for-nuclear-deal
—

Democracy Now!
A Step Toward Peace? South Korea Announces Trump Will Meet with North Korea’s Kim Jong-un

*I would say Killer Clown or Kim receiving a Nobel Peace Prize would make an utter mockery of its purported purpose

But I believe that’s already been amply achieved, don’t you?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/9/a_step_toward_peace_south_korea

How an Alabama Town Is Fighting Against Cancerous & Toxic Coal Ash Dumping—No Thanks to Trump’s EPA

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/9/how_an_alabama_town_is_fighting_against

Toxic Coal Ash Being Dumped in Puerto Rico, Which Already Suffers Worst Drinking Water in the Nation

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/9/toxic_coal_ash_being_dumped_in

3.8

Time For Action: Seven Proposals From Sweden For Reducing Sexism and Sexual Violence in the Midst of #MeToo
“OK…now what?”
by Christian Christensen

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/08/time-action-seven-proposals-sweden-reducing-sexism-and-sexual-violence-midst-metoo
–

Afro-Colombian Women Mobilize for Justice and Healing on International Women’s Day
In Colombia, women are demanding an end to the impunity, silence and invisibility that fuel attacks on female human rights defenders
by J.M. Kirby

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/08/afro-colombian-women-mobilize-justice-and-healing-international-womens-day
—

The Real News Network
Trump’s Tariffs Trade War
The negative reaction to Trump’s tariffs announcement, especially from Republicans and trade partners, has been strong, even prompting the resignation of Trump’s chief economic advisor. Economist and author Heiner Flassbeck discusses possible outcomes

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21315:Trump%27s-Tariffs-Trade-War

US Misses Putin’s Nuclear Message (1/2)
Russian President Vladimir Putin sparked a wave of U.S. media panic with a speech announcing upgrades to his government’s nuclear arsenal. But MIT professor emeritus and missile technology expert Theodore Postol says the reaction missed the real story

*Putin, like every other leader of a world power, doesn’t give a rat’s ass about “sustainable development for human civilization”, but, like every other sane human being (which excludes at least one other “world leader”), he does care about the incineration of the planet.

You can be a heartless bastard, and still understand when the rest of your body’s at mortal risk.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21300:US-Misses-Putin%27s-Nuclear-Message-%2812%29

Will Russiagate Help the Israel Lobby Censor Al Jazeera?
As Qatar faces pressure to suppress an Al Jazeera expose of the Israel lobby, Max Blumenthal and Ali Abunimah discuss how the climate of censorship and fear around Russiagate has empowered those long attacking Palestinian rights

*McCarthy turns in his grave

In anticipation of exhumation

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21276:Will-Russiagate-Help-the-Israel-Lobby-Censor-Al-Jazeera%3F

A New Chapter in China-Africa Relations
The political and economic relationship between China and Africa, which has steadily intensified since the ’90s, is very different than the relationships African countries have had with other capitalist powers. China’s own colonial past is a big factor, says Dr. Zhiqun Zhu of Bucknell University

*Well, that was a puff piece with which Beijing would find favor.

Should I expect better from Conway and TRNN?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21229:A-New-Chapter-in-China-Africa-Relations

From Segregation to Black Independent Schools
In Part Three, Noliwe Rooks says after African Americans were faced with nationwide resistance to integration, groups like the Black Panthers created successful models for black education

*It worked

For the wrong people

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21270:From-Segregation-to-Black-Independent-Schools

The Early History of ‘Segronomics’
In Part Two, Noliwe Rooks says wealthy philanthropists first influenced public education for African Americans in the post-reconstruction South

*As she says, Rooks doesn’t delineate the reasons for the withdrawal of federal troops, but I’d speculate that their presence was designed merely to feign support for lasting change, knowing full well what would occur once that protection was removed.

Call it another broken treaty.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21257:The-Early-History-of-%27Segronomics%27
—

Fight for $15
McDonald’s Failed

*Inverting reality along with its logo

https://www.facebook.com/Fightfor15/videos/1854579404572768
—

Democracy Now!
In Spain, Women Launch Nationwide Feminist Strike Protesting “Alliance of Patriarchy & Capitalism”

*While it’s heartening to hear this emphasis on capitalism as a bane to feminism, isn’t there a contradiction in then calling for more women in corporate leadership positions?

There’s a faulty math there, innit?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/8/in_spain_women_launch_nationwide_feminist

On International Women’s Day, Women Declare: Emancipation Comes Through the Rejection of Capitalism

*Re my previous comment

What she said, and I’m glad to hear it.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/8/on_international_womens_day_women_declare

Eve Ensler on International Women’s Day & Her New One-Woman Play “In the Body of the World”

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/8/eve_ensler_on_international_women_s

3.7

Schumer Denounced for ‘Absolutely Disgusting’ AIPAC Speech
“At AIPAC, Democrats try to outdo Trump in their devotion to Israel’s oppression of Palestinians”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*A “#Resistance” to common humanity

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/07/schumer-denounced-absolutely-disgusting-aipac-speech

‘Don’t Be Evil?’: Outrage Over Google’s Secret Program to Bolster Pentagon’s Drone War
“I hadn’t noticed the ‘… but it’s okay to help with drone strikes’ footnote to the ‘don’t be evil’ line in Google’s code of conduct”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*From “Don’t Be Evil”

To “Just Do It”

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/07/dont-be-evil-outrage-over-googles-secret-program-bolster-pentagons-drone-war
—

Coast Guard Responders ‘Harmed by Chemicals Used to Clean Up BP’s Spill’
Nearly one million gallons of the dispersant was dropped by air and a further 770,000 gallons injected into the well head to try and disperse in excess of 200 million gallons of oil that was spilt by BP in the Gulf of Mexico
by Andy Rowell

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/07/coast-guard-responders-harmed-chemicals-used-clean-bps-spill
–

Getting Real About School Safety
Armed adults don’t make kids safer. They put them at greater risk
by Karen Dolan

*It’s not just “conservatives” who are calling for armed guards, is it?

Democrats will pair this with sane approaches to prove their “responsibility”, and be lauded by the corpress for same.

It will be interesting (if that’s the right word) to see how the movement sparked by Parkland survivors reacts to this strategic subterfuge.

I imagine some will be coopted by arguments for “political pragmatism”, and the rest will find themselves no longer a fit subject for the focus of the media spotlight.

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/07/getting-real-about-school-safety
—

Reprieve
Executions Double Under Saudi Crown Prince

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/03/07/executions-double-under-saudi-crown-prince
—

The Real News Network
Trump Continues War on Science, Axes Teen Pregnancy Prevention Program
The cut is “shocking and unprecedented because it’s extremely unusual,” says Baltimore City Health Director Leana Wen. “I’ve never seen it happen that a grant is terminated without justification when the funds are available”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21306:Trump-Continues-War-on-Science%2C-Axes-Teen-Pregnancy-Prevention-Program

Bill Prohibits Baltimore From Selling Properties for Unpaid Water Bills
Advocates say that the bill, passed unanimously by the House of Delegates, will help protect elderly minorities who are most affected by tax sales
by Dharna Noor

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21307:Bill-Prohibits-Baltimore-From-Selling-Properties-for-Unpaid-Water-Bills

As Eastern Ghouta Besieged, What is the Answer for Syria? (2/2)
The Syrian government has a license to kill in Eastern Ghouta, and the world is failing to act, says Yasser Munif of Emerson University. But is intervention the answer, and what is to done about the right-wing militants trying to topple Assad?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21279:As-Eastern-Ghouta-Besieged%2C-What-is-the-Answer-for-Syria%3F-%2822%29

Violating International Law, Trump Renews Venezuela Sanctions
Trump renewed Obama’s sanctions against Venezuela, declaring it an “unusual and extraordinary threat” to the US, violating international law in the process, says CEPR co-director Mark Weisbrot. Also, the US threatened the main opposition presidential candidate if he doesn’t boycott the upcoming election

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21291:Violating-International-Law%2C-Trump-Renews-Venezuela-Sanctions

West Virginia Teachers Offer a Lesson in Organizing
With a deal reached in the West Virginia teachers strike, there is talk of revived labor activism nationwide. But is the deal fair to all, and will anti-union forces push back? We speak to West Virginia teacher Brendan Muckian-Bates and education scholar Dr. Curry Malott.

*The devils pen the details

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21294:West-Virginia-Teachers-Offer-a-Lesson-in-Organizing

Financial Deregulation Bill ‘Guts’ Dodd-Frank
Republican Senators – with 12 Democratic co-sponsors – are pushing through a financial deregulation bill that with dismantle the post-financial crisis Dodd-Frank regulations, in the name of helping community banks. But this is just a pretext, says former financial regulator Bill Black

*A bank shot that puts us behind the eight ball

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21286:Financial-Deregulation-Bill-%27Guts%27-Dodd-Frank
—

FAIR
Media Erase US Role in Syria’s Misery, Call for US to Inflict More Misery
by Gregory Shupak

*One definition of “humanitarian intervention”

Tear drops call for bomb drops

https://fair.org/home/media-erase-us-role-in-syrias-misery-call-for-us-to-inflict-more-misery
—

Democracy Now!
After Victorious Strike, W. Virginia Teacher Sends Message to Oklahoma Educators Poised to Walk Out

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/7/after_victorious_strike_w_virginia_teacher
—

Nutrition Action
A single bout of food poisoning can have long-lasting consequences

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/food-safety/single-bout-food-poisoning-can-long-lasting-consequences

3.6

Russiagate and the New Blacklist
It may have been aimed at Trump to start, but it’s become a way of targeting all dissent
by Matt Taibbi

*Omigod … I’m a Russian agent!

Now I know why I have this inexplicable craving for blinis!

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/06/russiagate-and-new-blacklist
—

Global Justice Ecology Project
More than One Thousand Women Take Over Suzano Pulp & Paper Mill to Protest Genetically Engineered Trees and Eucalyptus Plantations

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/03/06/more-one-thousand-women-take-over-suzano-pulp-paper-mill-protest-genetically
—

The Real News Network
Democracy in Crisis: Diarrhea Diaries and Dead Drug Dealers
The dangerous rhetoric and imagery of the “Opioid Crisis”
by Baynard Woods

*The cufflink wearers never get the cuffs

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21295:Democracy-in-Crisis%3A-Diarrhea-Diaries-and-Dead-Drug-Dealers

Italian Government in Chaos as Far-Right Parties Surge
Italy’s election on Sunday didn’t produce a clear winner, making the task of negotiating a coalition government particularly challenging. Raffaele Laudani, professor at the University of Bologna, discusses possible outcomes

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21283:Italian-Government-in-Chaos-as-Far-Right-Parties-Surge

Netanyahu or Not, Israel is Corrupted (1/2)
Israeli society “lives in denial” more than any other society, says Haaretz columnist Gideon Levy, referring to the suffering the occupation of Palestine causes

*I’d like Levy to explain why he seems to feel that there needed to be the creation of the state of Israel. That occurred after the Holocaust, so does he believe that it was necessary to protect the Jews who emigrated from what he considers the intense hostility of Palestinians and others in the region to their presence?

If so, it strikes me as a rationalization for Israel’s existence, but I’m certainly no expert, so I’d like to hear his defense of it, and Maté’s reaction to same.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21272:Netanyahu-or-Not%2C-Israel-is-Corrupted-%2812%29

As Eastern Ghouta Besieged, What is the Answer for Syria? (1/2)
The Syrian government has a license to kill in Eastern Ghouta, and the world is failing to act, says Yasser Munif of Emerson University. But is intervention the answer, and what is to done about the right-wing militants trying to topple Assad?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21280:As-Eastern-Ghouta-Besieged%2C-What-is-the-Answer-for-Syria%3F-%2812%29

Clashes Erupt as White Supremacist Richard Spencer Speaks at Michigan State University
The white supremacist Richard Spencer spoke at Michigan State University after defeating a campaign against his appearance. The Rev. David Alexander Bullock of Change Agent Consortium​ says that Spencer shouldn’t be given a platform to recruit for a violent, racist movement

*As the man said, the “philosophical debate” becomes very real for those with a life and death stake in the outcome, doesn’t it?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21277:Clashes-Erupt-as-White-Supremacist-Richard-Spencer-Speaks-at-Michigan-State-University

Exposing the Risks of Global Finance: Yilmaz Akyuz on ‘Playing with Fire’ (2/2)
South Centre Chief Economist explains the deepened financial integration of the Global South as a mechanism of Northern countries to continue compressing wage income. But the growing and massive accumulation of debt worldwide is making the global economy more vulnerable than ever before

*No, I don’t understand it, but I figure it’s important, so …

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21212:Exposing-the-Risks-of-Global-Finance%3A-Yilmaz-Akyuz-on-%27Playing-with-Fire%27-%2822%29

Three Generations of Apartheid Schooling
In Part One, author Noliwe Rooks discusses how her family’s experience with apartheid and segregated schooling inspired her to write “Cutting School: Privatization, Segregation, and the End of Public Education”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21255:Three-Generations-of-Apartheid-Schooling
—

FAIR
Social Media and the Rise of the ‘Consistent Liberal’
by Jim Naureckas

*It’s not an “echo chamber” the corpress objects to

It’s their own lack of reverb within it

https://fair.org/home/social-media-and-the-rise-of-the-consistent-liberal
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Missing in Trade Debate

http://www.accuracy.org/release/missing-in-trade-debate
—

Democracy Now!
Lori Wallach and Michael Hudson Debate Trump’s Plan to Impose Steel & Aluminum Tariffs

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/6/lori_wallach_and_michael_hudson_debate

3.5

‘Needless and Ideologically-Driven Cruelty’: Arkansas to Become First State to Implement Trump’s Assault on Medicaid
“In a very real sense, health coverage for millions of Americans who rely on Medicaid could be at risk under the agenda Trump is advancing”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/05/needless-and-ideologically-driven-cruelty-arkansas-become-first-state-implement

Shrouded in Darkness, Just Four People Gave $30 Million to Pro-Trump Group in 2016
Tax return of dark money group shows that just a handful of individual gifts fueled a multi-million-dollar slush fund for far-right forces
by Jon Queally, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/05/shrouded-darkness-just-four-people-gave-30-million-pro-trump-group-2016

The Powerful Global Spy Alliance You Never Knew Existed
by Ryan Gallagher
The Intercept

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/758-ryan-gallagher/3514-the-powerful-global-spy-alliance-you-never-knew-existed

Oil Market Fears: War, Default And Nuclear Weapons
by Nick Cunningham
Oilprice.com

*”[D]emocratic institutions” translates as the “ability to pass regulatory ‘reforms'” in the oiligarchy’s worldview, don’t it just?

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/389-nick-cunningham/3512-oil-market-fears-war-default-and-nuclear-weapons-

Viola Carofalo: “We are the voice of an Italy that nobody talks about”
Interview with Viola Carofalo, national representative and presidential candidate of the new left-wing movement
by Michele Caltagirone
The Dawn News

*A voice “left” out

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/760-michele-caltagirone/3518-viola-carofalo-we-are-the-voice-of-an-italy-that-nobody-talks-about
—

Al-Mutanabbi Street Starts Here: Marking the Anniversary of a Disaster in Iraq
For my part, I think it’s important to try to remember all of it, to remember as much as we can reasonably hold in our hearts and minds
by Claudia Lefko

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/05/al-mutanabbi-street-starts-here-marking-anniversary-disaster-iraq
–

West Virginia Frontier Communications Workers on Strike
“What business wants is to hire one half of the working class to kill the other half”
by Russell Mokhiber

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/05/west-virginia-frontier-communications-workers-strike
—

The Real News Network
New UN Report Examines Challenges to Sustainable Development in a Warming World
Prof. Petra Tschakert, lead author of a new UN report, explains that climate change adaptation can undermine sustainable development

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21246:New-UN-Report-Examines-Challenges-to-Sustainable-Development-in-a-Warming-World

Daniel Ellsberg Pays Tribute to Katharine Gun, Marking 15 Years Since Her Courageous Leak of NSA Memo
Pentagon Papers whistleblower Daniel Ellsberg recorded this statement in February 2018, shortly before the 15th anniversary of when the Observer newspaper published the explosive March 2, 2003 story “US dirty tricks to win vote on Iraq war” — based on a leak by GCHQ linguist and analyst Katharine Gun. RootsAction and ExposeFacts produced this story

*Pray your conscience is faster than your fear

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21266:Daniel-Ellsberg-Pays-Tribute-to-Katharine-Gun%2C-Marking-15-Years-Since-Her-Courageous-Leak-of-NSA-M

Exposing the Risks of Global Finance: Peter Dittus on ‘Playing with Fire’ (1/2)
Former BIS chief, author of ‘Revolution Required’, praises the insights of Akyuz’s book ‘Playing with Fire’, notably in uncovering the current state of financial fragility triggered by the G7, worsened by the absence of international mechanisms to recover from systemic debt fall-outs

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21211:Exposing-the-Risks-of-Global-Finance%3A-Peter-Dittus-on-%27Playing-with-Fire%27-%2812%29

Cutting School: Privatization, Segregation, and the End of Public Education (4/4)
In Part Four, author Noliwe Rooks and Dwight Draughon examine real solutions to educational apartheid

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21250:Cutting-School%3A-Privatization%2C-Segregation%2C-and-the-End-of-Public-Education-%2844%29

Cutting School: Privatization, Segregation, and the End of Public Education (3/4)
In Part Three, former Teach for America corp member Dwight Draughon says sending inexperienced college graduates to teach in high-need schools will not bring transformative change

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21249:Cutting-School%3A-Privatization%2C-Segregation%2C-and-the-End-of-Public-Education-%2834%29

Cutting School: Privatization, Segregation, and the End of Public Education (2/4)
In Part Two, author Noliwe Rooks says the privatization movement seeks to profit from educational apartheid under the guise of education reform

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21247:Cutting-School%3A-Privatization%2C-Segregation%2C-and-the-End-of-Public-Education-%2824%29

Israel’s Deepening Involvement in the Syrian War
Israel has recently been intensifying air strikes and the arming of anti-government forces in Syria, some of which are close to Al Qaeda. Professor As’ad AbuKhalil explains how Israel’s activity in Syria is part of a larger pattern of its overall foreign policy engagement around the world

*Opposition to oppression is an indivisible entity

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21226:Israel%27s-Deepening-Involvement-in-the-Syrian-War

Baltimore Councilman Compares Tax Break to ‘Tropical Fruit That I Can’t Pronounce’
The glib remark came during a serious debate over the real cost of tax breaks to developers as the city moves forward with new incentives while state analysts warn the final price tag of these expansive private subsidies is unknown
by Stephen Janis and Taya Graham

*TIF

T ake I t F rom

Us

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21262:Baltimore-Councilman-Compares-Tax-Break-to-%27Tropical-Fruit-That-I-Can%27t-Pronounce%27

Join The Dots Ep 5 – The Air We Breathe
In this episode of Join The Dots, Real Media discusses the health effects of and possible solutions to air pollution as London breaks its annual air pollution limit in just the first month of 2018

*Even if there were no such thing as climate change, isn’t this enough to awaken us from our stultifyingly stupid stupor?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21237:Join-The-Dots-Ep-5—The-Air-We-Breathe
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
What’s in Al Jazeera’s Film on Israel Lobby?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/whats-in-al-jazeeras-film-on-israel-lobby
—

Democracy Now!
“People Have Just Had Enough”: West Virginia Teachers Continue Historic Strike into Eighth Day

*When our backs are bolstered

Our spines stiffen

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/5/people_have_just_had_enough_west

U.K. University Workers Enter Week 3 of Strike Against Pension Cuts & “Marketization” of Higher Ed

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/5/uk_university_workers_enter_week_3

From Coal Miners to Teachers: West Virginia Continues to Lead Radical Labor Struggle in the U.S.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/5/from_coal_miners_to_teachers_west
—

Are beets a circulation superfood?
by Caitlin Dow

https://www.nutritionaction.com/uncategorized/beets-circulation-superfood

3.2

‘Such a Fortunate Coincidence’: Trump Ally Carl Icahn Ditched Steel Stocks Before Tariffs Made Public
“Hmmm, is this a coincidence or did Trump confidant Carl Icahn have insider information?”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/02/such-fortunate-coincidence-trump-ally-carl-icahn-ditched-steel-stocks-tariffs-made

What Does Research That NRA Doesn’t Want Funded Show? That Gun Restrictions Save Lives
A new non-partisan study offers some of the most complete analysis of gun policies in decades—but the effort was frequently hamstrung by the NRA’s stifling of gun control research
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/02/what-does-research-nra-doesnt-want-funded-show-gun-restrictions-save-lives
—

Will Lawmakers Again Make Schools The Sacrificial Lamb For Gun Control?
The media’s big lie is that “we’ve done nothing” to address school shootings that continue to plague the nation, when really we’ve just done the wrong things
by Jeff Bryant

*The cure can be worse than the disease

But what about when the cure is the disease?

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/02/will-lawmakers-again-make-schools-sacrificial-lamb-gun-control
–

Teen Solidarity Against the Merchants of Death
The outrage now directed toward the National Rifle Association should also challenge all assaults made by the U.S. military
by Kathy Kelly

*Common cause to overcome common carnage

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/02/teen-solidarity-against-merchants-death
–

#ArmMeWith Solidarity Against the NRA and Militarizing Our Schools
When we say we oppose access to weapons like the AR-15, we truly mean everyone, including the police
by Jesse Hagopian and Jessie Muldoon

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/02/armmewith-solidarity-against-nra-and-militarizing-our-schools
—

Fight for $15
McDonald’s Workers to NLRB: Let the Judge Decide
Days after the NLRB reverses critical employment decision, cooks, cashiers protest, demanding halt to settlement talks in groundbreaking workers’ rights case

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/03/02/mcdonalds-workers-nlrb-let-judge-decide

Earthjustice
Groundwater Monitoring Reveals Widespread Radioactivity at Duke Energy Coal Plants​
Data shows high levels of radioactivity at 11 of 18 plants

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/03/02/groundwater-monitoring-reveals-widespread-radioactivity-duke-energy-coal-plants
—

The Real News Network
In a Blow to Transparency, Maryland Courts Remove Police Officer Info From Database
The Maryland Judiciary removed all information about police officers from its searchable database as the new Baltimore Police commissioner pledges transparency in the wake of a vast corruption scandal, causing outrage among attorneys, journalists, and advocates for transparency
by Baynard Woods and Brandon Soderberg

*The “thin blue line” behind the thick black curtain

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21252:In-a-Blow-to-Transparency%2C-Maryland-Courts-Remove-Police-Officer-Info-From-Database

Canadian Logger Intensifies Persecution of Greenpeace and Stand.Earth
“They have nothing to go on,” says Todd Paglia, executive director of Stand.Earth, one of the defendants in the case filed by Resolute Forest Products, who had previously filed a case that was dismissed under anti-SLAPP legislation

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21244:Canadian-Logger-Intensifies-Persecution-of-Greenpeace-and-Stand.Earth

Brazil’s Military Takeover in Rio Sparks Authoritarian Fears
Deeply unpopular Brazilian President Michel Temer issued a decree to put the military in charge of security in Rio de Janeiro instead of police, dubiously claiming the purpose is to crack down on crime. But many Brazilians worry that it’s the first stage in a return to military rule, explains journalist Brian Mier

*Burying the past

To exhume it

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21251:Brazil%27s-Military-Takeover-in-Rio-Sparks-Authoritarian-Fears

How Did Communist China Become a Capitalist Superpower?
In his new book, “Competing Economic Paradigms in China,” Steve Cohn examines how China’s economic policy went from Maoist to “iron rice bowl” to neoliberal

*For those in power, ideology is a servant, not a master

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21218:How-Did-Communist-China-Become-a-Capitalist-Superpower%3F

Electric Power Companies Top the List of Greenhouse Gas Emitters
The top three companies on the newest edition of PERI’s Greenhouse 100 Index are all electric power generators, and they’re responsible for a full five percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, says researcher Michael Ash

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21238:Electric-Power-Companies-Top-the-List-of-Greenhouse-Gas-Emitters

The Black Disinvestment Crisis: From Dayton, OH to Baltimore, MD (1/2)
In the first of our three part series on the dismantling of West Dayton, a predominantly African-American Community, TRNN talks to Professor Lawrence Brown and activists about how the national move to gentrify cities has left existing black communities vulnerable to disinvestment
by Stephen Janis and Taya Graham

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21242:The-Black-Disinvestment-Crisis%3A-From-Dayton%2C-OH-to-Baltimore%2C-MD-%2812%29
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Illegal West Virginia Wildcat Strike Continues

http://www.accuracy.org/release/illegal-west-virginia-wildcat-strike-continues
—

FAIR
MSNBC’s Big Names Completely Ignore West Virginia Teachers Strike
by Adam Johnson

*Actual “#Resistance”?

Eh …

https://fair.org/home/msnbcs-big-names-completely-ignore-west-virginia-teachers-strike

3.1

After Being Told He’s ‘Full of Sh*t’ at School Event, Mnuchin Demands UCLA Suppress Video
In addition to being called out on his “plutocratic BS,” students in attendance attacked the Treasury chief’s record of foreclosing on tens of thousands of Americans
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Toto, we’re not on cable news anymore

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/03/01/after-being-told-hes-full-sht-school-event-mnuchin-demands-ucla-suppress-video
—

The Russians Aren’t The Only Election Hackers
The US has interfered in elections all over the world — and this Russian ‘crisis’ is a big deal about very little
by Reese Erlich

*Yankee disingenuity

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/01/russians-arent-only-election-hackers
–

CRA “Reform” Is an Attack on Communities of Color
At a time of record profits for banks and record wealth and income inequality in the U.S., a strong CRA is critical to reaching economic equity for the working class and people of color
by Sharon Velasquez

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/03/01/cra-reform-attack-communities-color
—

The Real News Network
Capital Flight From Africa: How the Poor Finance the Rich
A new World Bank report comparing economic growth among different regions in the world ignores key factors in addressing wealth and inequality in Africa–particularly the wealth that is stashed offshore in developed countries, says economist and author Leonce Ndikumana

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21225:Capital-Flight-From-Africa%3A-How-the-Poor-Finance-the-Rich

As Colombia’s Presidential Campaign Heats Up, Peace Accord Frays
Colombia’s former rebel group FARC suspended its presidential campaign because political violence in Colombia continues unabated. Meanwhile, leftist candidate Gustavo Petro is pulling ahead in the crowded presidential race, explains Prof. Mario Murillo

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21210:As-Colombia%27s-Presidential-Campaign-Heats-Up%2C-Peace-Accord-Frays

Defying Union Leadership, West Virginia Teachers Return to the Picket Lines
Striking teacher Jay O’Neal says the rank and file rejected a deal struck between union leaders and governor Jim Justice because it lacked concrete action on skyrocketing healthcare costs

*Not willing to be “led” on

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21236:Defying-Union-Leadership%2C-West-Virginia-Teachers-Return-to-the-Picket-Lines

Eddie Conway: ‘It’s Not Mass Incarceration, It’s Targeted’
Prisons aren’t “correctional” facilities, because they have no interest in correcting anything; the multibillion-dollar prison industry is interested in profits, and institutional racism keeps the money flowing, says TRNN Executive Producer Eddie Conway

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21234:Eddie-Conway%3A-%27It%27s-Not-Mass-Incarceration%2C-It%27s-Targeted%27

US Efforts to Sabotage Venezuelan Elections Intensify
The presidential election in Venezuela is now being derailed by the threat of a U.S. oil embargo and the opposition coalition’s call for a boycott. A strong opposition challenger to President Maduro is running anyway

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21219:US-Efforts-to-Sabotage-Venezuelan-Elections-Intensify
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Postol: U.S. Policies Driving Putin Nuclear Statements

http://www.accuracy.org/release/postol-u-s-policies-driving-putin-nuclear-statements
—

FAIR
Top NYT Editor: ‘We Are Pro-Capitalism, the Times Is in Favor of Capitalism’
Well, that settles that.
by Adam Johnson

*So what would be the odds of encountering an honest to godless socialist (you know, one who doesn’t append an adjective to “capitalism” before condemning it) upon such hallowed ground?

https://fair.org/home/top-nyt-editor-we-are-pro-capitalism-the-times-is-in-favor-of-capitalism

Media Parroting ‘$1000 Bonus!’ Stories Helped Give Trump’s Tax Cuts Majority Support
by Adam Johnson

*Let them eat crumb cake

https://fair.org/home/media-parroting-1000-bonus-stories-helped-give-trumps-tax-cuts-majority-support
—

Democracy Now!
“Freakishly Warm” Arctic Weather Has Scientists Reconsidering Worst-Case Scenarios on Climate Change

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/3/1/freakishly_warm_arctic_weather_has_scientists
—

Cancer-Causing Toxins Lurking in Household Cleaning Products
by Ty Bollinger

*The dirty truth behind “cleaning”

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/toxic-cleaning-products

February 2018

 

2.28

Despite Major Public Opposition, EU Reportedly Set to Approve Bayer-Monsanto #MergerFromHell
“A merged Bayer-Monsanto would be relentless in its pursuit of putting corporate profits over the protection of small farms—eventually driving up prices for consumers”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/28/despite-major-public-opposition-eu-reportedly-set-approve-bayer-monsanto
—

Separation of Church and State Starts With Kicking Billy Graham Out of the Rotunda
Graham, a champion of war, whispered into the ears of presidents and emboldened their villainy
by Pat LaMarche

*Speaking ill of the deadly

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/28/separation-church-and-state-starts-kicking-billy-graham-out-rotunda
–

What Could a Left Presidency Look Like in Mexico?
by Ryan Mallett-Outtrim

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/685-ryan-mallett-outtrim/3509-what-could-a-left-presidency-look-like-in-mexico
–

China’s dilemma: Balancing support for militants with struggle against political violence
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3508-chinas-dilemma-balancing-support-for-militants-with-struggle-against-political-violence
—

Amnesty International – USA
Afghanistan: Civilian Lives Must Be At The Heart Of The Kabul Process

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/02/28/afghanistan-civilian-lives-must-be-heart-kabul-process
—

The Real News Network
West Virginia Teachers Strike Redefines Teacher Unionism
Every public school in the state is closed for a fourth day as thousands of teachers demand better pay, pensions, and healthcare. TRNN speaks to Dale Lee, president of the West Virginia Education Association, and union activist Lois Weiner

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21223:West-Virginia-Teachers-Strike-Redefines-Teacher-Unionism

California Dems Reject Sen. Feinstein, Open Path for Progressive Candidate
Long-serving Senator Dianne Feinstein failed to receive the endorsement of the California Democratic Party, signaling a shift in the state’s politics towards a more progressive alternative

*As much as I’m glad to see an avatar of everything godawful about the Democratic Party hopefully handed her walking papers, and as much as I support universal healthcare as a human right, I’d caution placing either de León or Newsom on any pedestal based on their positions on this issue, and I’d damn sure be wary of any “pragmatic” backsliding on their part even in this area.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21222:California-Dems-Reject-Sen.-Feinstein%2C-Open-Path-for-Progressive-Candidate

How Powerful is the NRA?
The NRA’s influence in Washington doesn’t come from spending money directly on elections; it comes from the organization’s ability to mobilize its vast and extremely engaged membership, says Benjamin McKean of Ohio State University

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21216:How-Powerful-is-the-NRA%3F
—

FAIR
Chicago Media Help Sheriff Exploit Post-Parkland Gun Fears to Expand Pretrial Punishment
by Sarah Lazare

https://fair.org/home/chicago-media-help-sheriff-exploit-post-parkland-gun-fears-to-expand-pretrial-punishment
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
NRA’s “Boondoggle” — CMP: Government-Backed Program Teaches Kids to Shoot Guns at School; Sells Weapons

http://www.accuracy.org/release/nras-boondoggle-cmp-government-backed-program-teaches-kids-to-shoot-guns-at-school-sells-weapons
—

Democracy Now!
Cruel & Unconstitutional: ACLU Denounces SCOTUS Ruling Approving Indefinite Immigrant Detention

*Still “yearning to breathe free”

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/28/cruel_unconstitutional_aclu_denounces_scotus_ruling
—

Nutrition Action
Veggie secrets! 5 benefits you may not know

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/what-to-eat/veggie-secrets-5-benefits-may-not-know

2.27

NYT Editor Insists the Paper Has No Ideology…Except Being ‘Pro-Capitalism’
“There may be a connection between the NYT editorial page editor saying ‘we are pro-capitalism’ and the NYT having no Sanders backers on staff”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*The Times is pro capitalism?!

The Vatican is pro Catholic?!

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/27/nyt-editor-insists-paper-has-no-ideologyexcept-being-pro-capitalism
–

My Kid Doesn’t Need Permission To Walk Out
He was following the lessons of his history books ― and what I believe is our best American tradition for change
by Jeff Biggers

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/27/my-kid-doesnt-need-permission-walk-out
—

The Real News Network
Remembering Bea Gaddy, a Champion for the Homeless in Baltimore
Bea Gaddy (1933-2001) fed thousands of Baltimore’s homeless and hungry

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21215:Remembering-Bea-Gaddy%2C-a-Champion-for-the-Homeless-in-Baltimore

Privatizing US Foreign Policy
Billionaire Sheldon Adelson’s offer to pay for moving the US embassy in Israel to Jerusalem represents the privatization of US foreign policy, says Phyllis Bennis of the Institute for Policy Studies

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21208:Privatizing-US-Foreign-Policy

The End of Public Sector Unions?
An impending Supreme Court ruling on public sector union fees could mean spell their end as the last remaining bastion of unionization in the US, says Bill Fletcher, Jr.

*Solidarity is a two way street that much of union “leadership” rarely travels

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21209:The-End-of-Public-Sector-Unions%3F
—

Democracy Now!
Modern-Day Redlining: Banks Face Probes for Refusing Home Loans for People of Color

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/27/modern_day_redlining_banks_face_probes

Let’s Move Our Money: Penn. Lawmaker Demands Action Against Banks Practicing Racist Redlining

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/27/lets_move_our_money_penn_lawmaker

2.26

Guns and Liberty
Guns do not protect us from tyranny. They are an instrument of tyranny.
by Chris Hedges

*When I hold you in my arms
And I feel my finger on your trigger
I know nobody can do me no harm

Because happiness is a warm gun

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/26/guns-and-liberty
—

National Nurses United
RNs Warn of Threat to Patient Care as Court Begins To Hear Corporate Attack on Workers, Union Rights

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/02/26/rns-warn-threat-patient-care-court-begins-hear-corporate-attack-workers-union

Center for Biological Diversity
New Global Study: Wildlife-Harming Neonicotinoid Pesticides Generally Fail to Increase Crop Yields
Sustainable Pest-control Strategies Are Cheaper, More Effective

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/02/26/new-global-study-wildlife-harming-neonicotinoid-pesticides-generally-fail

Center for Biological Diversity
California Court Ruling Ends Decades of State Pesticide Spraying
Judge Strips State Food Agriculture Agency of Authority to Use Chemicals

*Turning a blue state green

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/02/26/california-court-ruling-ends-decades-state-pesticide-spraying

The Real News Network
Militarizing Schools, Criminalizing Students
Since 1999, 10,000 additional police officers have been placed at schools, with no impact on violence. Meanwhile, about one million students have been arrested for acts previously punishable by detention or suspension, and black students are three times more likely to be arrested than their white peers, says policy analyst Samuel Sinyangwe

*Like militarism in every other context, expect this to be an exemplar of “bipartisanship”.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21213:Militarizing-Schools%2C-Criminalizing-Students

Oxfam Prostitution Scandal in Haiti Deepens Suspicions of Other NGOs
The sexual misconduct scandal involving Oxfam in Haiti further deepens Haitians’ suspicions of NGOs, which have already contributed to the profound neoliberalization of Haitian society, explains Haiti Liberte’s Kim Ives

*”We’re here to help”

Ourselves

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21205:Oxfam-Prostitution-Scandal-in-Haiti-Deepens-Suspicions-of-Other-NGOs

IMF’s Structural Adjustment Programs Weaken States They Aim to Strengthen
A new paper from the Political Economy Research Institute discusses how the IMF’s programs undermine the ability of governments in developing countries to properly govern

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21192:IMF%27s-Structural-Adjustment-Programs-Weaken-States-They-Aim-to-Strengthen

Why Is the FBI Targeting ‘Black Identity Extremists?’
Eugene Puryear and Eddie Conway say there is no reason the FBI should be focusing on so-called “black identity extremists” when white supremacists commit so many acts of terror

*When it comes to the ironically labeled “Democrats”, how many “progressives” – you know, those “fighting for the soul of the party” – are doing other than paying lip service, if that, to this issue?

I don’t hear an earnest hue and cry from Saint Bernard and company here, do you?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21148:Why-Is-the-FBI-Targeting-%27Black-Identity-Extremists%3F%27

Gun Control will Not Cure a Society that Produces Monstrous Behavior
Historian Gerald Horne and host Paul Jay agree – while strong gun control is necessary, it’s not enough to keep schools and communities safe; we must change the unequal and decaying society that produces so much psychosis

*The “bad seeds” grow in toxic soil, and the poison peddlers profit off its perversion

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21200:Gun-Control-will-Not-Cure-a-Society-that-Produces-Monstrous-Behavior

Former CIA Director Admits to US Foreign Meddling, Laughs About It
The U.S. government has overthrown dozens of governments and rigged numerous foreign elections, and former CIA Director James Woolsey finds this funny

*If it doesn’t reek of hypocrisy

Can you truly claim it to be “one of our sacred values”?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21203:Former-CIA-Director-Admits-to-US-Foreign-Meddling%2C-Laughs-About-It
—

FAIR
‘The United States Is Driving a Wedge Between the Two Koreas’
CounterSpin interview with Christine Hong about US/Korean history
by Janine Jackson

https://fair.org/home/the-united-states-is-driving-a-wedge-between-the-two-koreas
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
SC Janus Case: Culmination of Prolonged “Attempt to Kill Public-Sector Unions”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/sc-janus-case-culmination-of-prolonged-attempt-to-kill-public-sector-unions
—

Democracy Now!
As Students Demand Gun Control, Arms Manufacturers Continue Targeting “Next Generation of Shooters”

*Teach your children hell

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/26/as_students_demand_gun_control_arms

Lee Fang: Billionaire Koch Brothers Have Extracted “Laundry List” of Victories from Trump Admin

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/26/lee_fang_billionaire_koch_brothers_have

Six Months After Harvey, Environmental Justice & Climate Change Absent from Houston’s Recovery Plans

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/26/six_months_after_harvey_environmental_justice
—

One out of three U.S. adults have prediabetes
Nine out of ten of them don’t know it
by Caitlin Dow
Nutrition Action

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/diabetes-and-diet-cat/one-out-of-three-u-s-adults-have-prediabetes

2.23

Heeding Calls By Gun Control Advocates, National Companies Cut Ties With NRA
The nation’s largest privately-owned bank, a major security software company, and three rental car companies have all ended their relationships with the gun lobby
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Will these leopards’ spots change back if the NRA calls for a boycott?

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/23/heeding-calls-gun-control-advocates-national-companies-cut-ties-nra
—

Drawing lines: A review of Renate Klein’s ‘Surrogacy: A Human Rights Violation’
by Robert Jensen

http://www.feministcurrent.com/2018/02/23/drawing-lines-review-renate-kleins-surrogacy-human-rights-violation
–

Courage to Resist
Tell the Feds: End Draft Registration

https://couragetoresist.org/tell-feds-end-draft-registration
—

Can South Korea’s Leader End Trump’s North Korea Crisis?
by Gareth Porter

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/92-more-blog-posts-from-gareth-porter/3501-can-south-koreas-leader-end-trumps-north-korea-crisis
—

The Real News Network
Employers Steal $15B From Low Wage Workers Each Year
Millions of workers are paid less than the minimum wage, thanks to the erosion of federal labor protection. We talk to David Cooper of the Economic Policy Institute

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21191:Employers-Steal-%2415B-From-Low-Wage-Workers-Each-Year

God and Guns – The Fanatical Faith of the NRA
NRA Executive Vice President Wayne LaPierre said in a speech to CPAC “There is no greater personal individual freedom than the right to keep and bear arms . . . It’s not bestowed by man, but granted by God”. Historian Gerald Horne and host Paul Jay discuss the origins of the religious fervor underlying the NRA’s defense of gun rights

*Praise the Lord and pass the profitable ammunition

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21198:God-and-Guns—The-Fanatical-Faith-of-the-NRA

What Netanyahu’s Growing Corruption Scandal Means for the Region
As a top aide agrees to cooperate against Benjamin Netanyahu, Phyllis Bennis warns that the Israeli Prime Minister’s domestic corruption case could lead him to ramp up threats to Iran and other rivals

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21194:What-Netanyahu%27s-Growing-Corruption-Scandal-Means-for-the-Region

For 2018, Top Democrats Follow the Big Money
Heading into the 2018 midterms, Democratic leaders are favoring corporate-friendly candidates — even though Bernie Sanders’ 2016 campaign showed them a different path, Aaron Mate reports

*For honest reporters, “Follow the money” is an article of faith

The same holds true for disingenuous DNCistas

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21197:For-2018%2C-Top-Democrats-Follow-the-Big-Money
—

Petition update
Protect Drivers from the Dangers of Carbon Monoxide: Pass Savannah’s Law
Heading to the Governor desk to be signed into law
by John Bettis

https://www.change.org/p/5578770/u/22424235
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
U.S. Biowarfare in North Korea Charges: Long-Suppressed Report Finally Accessible

http://www.accuracy.org/release/u-s-biowarfare-in-north-korea-charges-long-suppressed-report-finally-accessible-interviews-available
—

Democracy Now!
Masha Gessen: Did a Russian Troll Farm’s Inflammatory Posts Really Sway the 2016 Election for Trump?

*If this was the work of the Kremlin, it would seem to fall under the category of “psyops”, which the US has been a past master of for decades, and which the Russians clearly are not, at least in this instance, judging by its truly risible implementation.

Given such, why even do it? That question really isn’t answered here, is it?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/23/masha_gessen_did_a_russian_troll

“The Young Karl Marx”: Raoul Peck on New Film Examining How Marx Developed Critique of Capitalism

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/23/the_young_karl_marx_raoul_peck

Florida Gunman Nikolas Cruz Knew How to Use a Gun, Thanks to the NRA and the U.S. Army

*From lambs to slaughterers

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/23/florida_gunman_nikolas_cruz_knew_how

2.22

The 9/11 Hijackers Were Iraqis, Right?
Teaching in a time of wars
by Rebecca Gordon

*Those who do not know the past

Are condemned to continue it

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/22/911-hijackers-were-iraqis-right
–

The Big Pharma Family that Brought Us the Opioid Crisis
Who will bring to justice the billionaires who have profited so royally from addiction?
by Sam Pizzigati

*A war on drugs waged against the poor

A war of drugs waged against the populace

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/22/big-pharma-family-brought-us-opioid-crisis
–

Conservative Riders Would Unleash More Big Money In Politics
Given the fact that most Americans know that too much money in the political system is disrupting our democracy, it’s no wonder conservative lawmakers are trying to sneak these provisions through
by Rachel Curley

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/22/conservative-riders-would-unleash-more-big-money-politics
–

Canadian Company Threatens NAFTA Investor-State Challenge Over Washington State Legislation Against Fish Farms
The Council of Canadians supports a ban on all fish farms
by Brent Patterson

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/21/canadian-company-threatens-nafta-investor-state-challenge-over-washington-state
–

Red Cloud’s Revolution: Oglalla Sioux Freeing Themselves From Fossil Fuel
“People don’t like being on the grid here,” Red Cloud says, “because they’ve been coexisting with the earth – the sun, the wind – for most of their history”
by Saul Elbein

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/21/red-clouds-revolution-oglalla-sioux-freeing-themselves-fossil-fuel
—

Violence Policy Center
Violence Policy Center Backgrounder: Arm Teachers? The Facts Argue Against It

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/02/22/violence-policy-center-backgrounder-arm-teachers-facts-argue-against-it

The New York Immigration Coalition
Coalition, Legal Aid Society Release Groundbreaking New Study on Immigrant Access to Legal Services in NY
Criminal carve out in NYC funding creates serious impediments

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/02/22/coalition-legal-aid-society-release-groundbreaking-new-study-immigrant-access
—

The Real News Network
Baltimore’s Metro Shutdown Underscores City’s Transportation Problem (2/2)
In the second part of his interview with Lisa Snowden McCray, Councilman Ryan Dorsey talks about how creating a more bike-friendly and walkable city not only improves public health but also boosts employment and small-business growth

*Putting the common good in the fast lane

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21162:Baltimore%27s-Metro-Shutdown-Underscores-City%27s-Transportation-Problem-%2822%29
—

Petition
Black Queer & Intersectional Columbus
Minimal Sentencing for the #BlackPride4

*Sealing the silo

https://campaigns.organizefor.org/petitions/minimum-sentencing-for-the-blackpride4

2.21

Billy Graham: An Old Soldier Fades Away
Billy Graham was a preacher man equally intent on saving souls and soliciting financial support for his ministry. His success at the former is not subject to proof and his success at the latter is unrivaled
by Cecil Bothwell

*The fearsome profit for a false prophet

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21188:Billy-Graham%3A-An-Old-Soldier-Fades-Away
–

Haiti’s Latest Indignity At The Hands Of Dogooders
Oxfam’s sex scandal
by Mark Schuller

*Who bears “the white man’s burden”?

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/21/haitis-latest-indignity-hands-dogooders
—

The Real News Network
Improving Baltimore’s Schools Will Take More Than Just Money
Baltimore’s schools need to be fundamentally transformed, says Lawrence Grandpre of Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle, and meaningful change requires focusing on the needs of black parents and community members

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21182:Improving-Baltimore%27s-Schools-Will-Take-More-Than-Just-Money

Safe Streets in America’s ‘Most Dangerous City’
Baltimore is experiencing a slight dip in homicides, thanks in part to Safe Streets, a mediation-based program to end violence. But law-and-order Republicans are pushing back against community-based solutions

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21184:Safe-Streets-in-America%27s-%27Most-Dangerous-City%27

Saudi Arabia’s Unholy Alliance with Israel
Scholar As’ad AbuKhalil says Saudi Arabia is a strategic partner of the U.S. and Israel, promoting Zionism though its powerful media while increasing its hostility to Iran

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21181:Saudi-Arabia%27s-Unholy-Alliance-with-Israel

Can Trump’s Neocons Exploit Russiagate? (2/2)
However much Russiagate may annoy Trump personally, administration officials like H.R. McMaster are seizing on it to advance a militarist agenda at home and abroad. Max Blumenthal and Aaron Mate discuss

*Lovable spooks and loathsome spooking

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21183:Can-Trump%27s-Neocons-Exploit-Russiagate%3F-%2822%29
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Real Black Panthers — Not the Disney Movie — Were Actually Targeted by the CIA

*Paint it black

And let the whitewash flow

http://www.accuracy.org/release/real-black-panthers-not-the-disney-movie-were-actually-targeted-by-the-cia-interviews-available
—

FAIR
Painting an Israeli Attack on Syria as Israeli ‘Retaliation’
by Gregory Shupak

https://fair.org/home/painting-an-israeli-attack-on-syria-as-israeli-retaliation
—

Democracy Now!
“Orgies While People Are Dying”: How Charity Oxfam Allowed Sex Abuse in Ailing Countries Like Haiti

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/21/orgies_while_people_are_dying_how

Edwidge Danticat: I Hope Oxfam Sex Scandal in Haiti Is a #MeToo Moment for Aid Organizations

*Would it be cynical to say that many of those in positions of power expressing outrage and demanding “accountability” over this horror knew it was happening, or knew enough to investigate it? Grandstanding now doesn’t absolve them of responsibility for not acting then.

And yes, Oxfam and every other guilty organization should be defunded and stripped of their assets, and a good faith effort made to place those funds in the hands of those in country with a proven record of integrity, with the overarching aim of developing community based programs accountable to the people in need of services.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/21/edwidge_danticat_i_hope_oxfam_sex

Inside the U.S. Military Recruitment Program That Trained Nikolas Cruz to Be “A Very Good Shot”

*Imprinting the impressionable

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/21/inside_the_us_military_recruitment_program

2.20

Research Exposes $16 Billion Bottled Water Industry’s Predatory Marketing Practices
The industry spends billions of dollars per year convincing Americans that bottled water is safer than tap—even though more than two-thirds of the product comes from municipal water sources
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/20/research-exposes-16-billion-bottled-water-industrys-predatory-marketing-practices

Alaska’s Bering Sea Lost a Third of Its Ice in Just 8 Days
by Sabrina Shankman
Inside Climate News

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/608-sabrina-shankman/3500-alaskas-bering-sea-lost-a-third-of-its-ice-in-just-8-days
—

Canada Needs A Progressive National Food Policy
Reinstate the prison farm system and support family farmers.
by Lois Ross

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/20/canada-needs-progressive-national-food-policy
–

Day and Night in Kabul
by Ken Hannaford Ricardi

http://vcnv.org/2018/02/15/day-and-night-in-kabul-ken-hannaford-ricardi
–

Valentine’s Day pinpoints limits of Saudi prince’s Islamic reform effort
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3499-valentines-day-pinpoints-limits-of-saudi-princes-islamic-reform-effort
—

The Real News Network
Is Russia a Threat?
Alleged election-meddling aside, there is a great deal of exaggeration of Russia’s power and its threat to the U.S., says author and scholar Vijay Prashad

*Not a whole lotta boogie in the boogey man

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21172:Is-Russia-a-Threat%3F

Why is a Russian Troll Farm Being Compared to 9/11?
Robert Mueller’s charges against 13 Russians and their troll farm for “information warfare” against the U.S. has prompted comparisons to Pearl Harbor and 9/11. Max Blumenthal breaks down the indictment and the overblown reaction

*Anyone afeared of “The Red” … um, sorry … “The Russian Menace” should take comfort in the fact that they’re about as skilful at subterfuge as Elmer Fudd, if one accepts the nefarious narrative on offer from The Intelligence Community ™.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21178:Why-is-a-Russian-Troll-Farm-Being-Compared-to-911%3F

Baltimore’s Metro Shutdown Underscores City’s Transportation Problem (1/2)
In a high-crime city like Baltimore, transportation is often overlooked, but Councilman Ryan Dorsey says creating more equitable and accessible transit throughout Baltimore would have a huge impact on the city, particularly in neighborhoods that have been historically disenfranchised or “redlined”

*Fine piece on issues rarely discussed

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21163:Baltimore%27s-Metro-Shutdown-Underscores-City%27s-Transportation-Problem-%2812%29
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Shooter Cruz, JROTC and the NRA

*I’m not holding my breath for “progressive” reps in Congress to do diddley about this, are you?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/shooter-cruz-jrotc-and-the-nra

2.19

NYPD Case Calls Attention to ‘Consent Defense’ That Can Be Used by Officers Accused of Rape in 35 States
“It should be clear across the state for officers from every department, that when someone is in custody they do not have the ability to consent to sexual activity”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/19/nypd-case-calls-attention-consent-defense-can-be-used-officers-accused-rape-35
—

Where Does #MeToo Start?
Teaching methods frequently cast boys as active or dominant, and girls as passive or submissive — stereotypes that normalize the power dynamics that lead to abuse and harassment
by Galen Sherwin

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/19/where-does-metoo-start
–

China’s step into the maelstrom of the Middle East
The Middle East has a knack for sucking external powers into its conflicts. China’s ventures into the region have shown how difficult it is to maintain its principle of non-interference in the internal affairs of other states.
by James M Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3497-chinas-step-into-the-maelstrom-of-the-middle-east
—

The Real News Network
President Ramaphosa: From Militant Revolutionary to Corporate Magnate
The ANC’s revolutionary leadership became low level allies of international capital and of all forms of exploitation of the working peoples of Southern Africa, says scholar Horace G. Campbell

*If any nation’s ordeal is an object lesson in placing personality before principle, it is South Africa.

Most “progressives” in the US, of all races, preferred the fairy tale of The Great Mandela leading “his people” to freedom over the reality of his and the ANC’s betrayal of them, and any concern over the current situation is somehow separated from that, as if the former was not the precipitant of the latter.

New or old, “boss” is a four letter word.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21173:President-Ramaphosa%3A-From-Militant-Revolutionary-to-Corporate-Magnate

A New ‘Cancer Alley’ for Appalachia
The Trump administration, the Chinese government, and major petrochemical companies are moving forward with a new multi-billion dollar petrochemical hub in Appalachia, which would become one of the largest in the US. The project raises concerns about the environmental and health impact and suffers from serious conflict of interest problems. Steve Horn reports

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21157:A-New-%27Cancer-Alley%27-for-Appalachia

Colombian Peace Agreement with FARC on the Brink of Collapse
The peace agreement that the government of Colombia and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia signed last year is on the verge of collapse because violence against social leaders and against former FARC fighters continues unabated. We talk to Empire Files’ Mike Prysner who was in Colombia recently

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21154:Colombian-Peace-Agreement-Could-Collapse-Due-to-Ongoing-Political-Violence

Philippine War on Drugs a Cover for President Duterte’s Fascism?
President Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines is waging an all-out war on drugs and drug addicts, with as many as 12,000 killed since it started in mid 2016. With backing from the Trump administration, Duterte is also using this war to crack down on leftist rebels and other critics

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21156:Philippine-War-on-Drugs-a-Cover-for-President-Duterte%27s-Fascism%3F

Israeli Strikes in Egypt Kept Secret for Years
Over a hundred bombings and invasions did not weaken ISIS in Sinai

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21161:Israeli-Strikes-in-Egypt-Kept-Secret-for-Years

Do Russiagate Skeptics Go Too Far?
As top intelligence officials warn of Russian meddling in the upcoming mid-terms, John Feffer of Lobelog and Foreign Policy in Focus joins TRNN’s Aaron Mate to discuss Feffer’s new article arguing that some progressive critics are going too far in dismissing the Russiagate narrative

*The Russian gummint, like most all others, will be opportunistic in attempting to weaken its rivals. To extrapolate from that some grand scheme to disrupt US politics, given the funds and the personnel supposedly dedicated to such, just doesn’t compute in my calculations.

I don’t dismiss some of Feffer’s points, but I think he takes some thin gruel to posit a full meal deal of Russian subversion.

The overarching takeaway is to keep all this in perspective – to understand who benefits from this Russia to judgment, and to be mindful of the stakes extant in yielding to this hysteria.

That said, it was refreshing to see both Maté and Feffer assert their arguments without rancor and disrespectful dismissiveness. You can never have too many “adults in the room”

Or the studio.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21152:Do-Russiagate-Skeptics-Go-Too-Far%3F

The Return of Berlusconi: Can A Fractured Left Defeat Him?
Uncertainty reigns as Italy gears up for an election on March 4, with most observers saying it will end with a hung parliament. University of Bologna Professor Raffaele Laudani discusses the election’s unpredictability, the weakening of the left, and Silvio Berlusconi’s political comeback

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21102:The-Return-of-Berlusconi%3A-Can-A-Fractured-Left-Defeat-Him%3F

Guns, Toxic Masculinity, and the Alt-Right
The FBI has confirmed it failed to act on a tip about Nikolas Cruz, the confessed shooter in the Florida high school massacre. Author David Neiwert says the shooting underscores the dangerous combination of toxic masculinity, guns, and radicalized scapegoating

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21153:Guns%2C-Toxic-Masculinity%2C-and-the-Alt-Right
—

FAIR
WSJ’s Epic Distortion of Colombian and Venezuelan Refugees
by Joe Emersberger

https://fair.org/home/wsjs-epic-distortion-of-colombian-and-venezuelan-refugees
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
“13 Russian” Indictment

*If those rascally Russkies did do anything, we don’t got diddley to fear from them, as their supposed “subversion” has all the sophistication of a porno script, don’t it just?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/13-russian-indictment
—

Democracy Now!
Five Months After Maria, San Juan Mayor Decries “Disaster Capitalism” & Privatization in Puerto Rico

*Starving the prey to feed the predators

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/19/five_months_after_maria_san_juan

San Juan Mayor Calls for End to Puerto Rico’s Colonial Status Amid Slow Hurricane Maria Recovery

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/19/san_juan_mayor_calls_for_end
—

The Safest Estrogen Foods for Reducing Breast Cancer Risk (video)
by Dr. Veronique Desaulniers

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/safest-estrogen-foods-video

Why small amounts of weight gain shouldn’t go unchecked
Even an extra 5 to 20 pounds over time matters
by Bonnie Liebman
Nutrition Action

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/diet-and-weight-loss/why-small-amounts-of-weight-gain-shouldnt-go-unchecked

2.16

Warnings Mount That Trump’s Infrastructure Plan Will Make It Harder to Fight Pipelines
The president’s proposal “could be a significant blow to the slew of protesters who spent years agitating against the Keystone XL pipeline and more recently the Dakota Access one”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/16/warnings-mount-trumps-infrastructure-plan-will-make-it-harder-fight-pipelines

In Win for Reproductive Rights, New Jersey Votes to Reverse Christie’s Planned Parenthood Cuts
“Everyone deserves the freedom and opportunity to control their lives at the most basic level, including access to birth control, quality sex education, and safe, legal abortion”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/16/win-reproductive-rights-new-jersey-votes-reverse-christies-planned-parenthood-cuts
—

We Are Drowning In Plastic, and Fracking Companies Are Profiting
Plastic production wreaks havoc on people and the planet—from fracking wells and pipelines in Pennsylvania, to air pollution from plastic plants in Scotland
by Wenonah Hauter

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/16/we-are-drowning-plastic-and-fracking-companies-are-profiting
—

Amnesty International – USA
As USS Cole Trial Shuts Down, Amnesty Calls to End All Military Commissions

*Court of lost resort

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/02/16/uss-cole-trial-shuts-down-amnesty-calls-end-all-military-commissions

Violence Policy Center
Backgrounder on Smith & Wesson M&P15 Assault Rifle Used in Mass Shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida

*Making a killing making killing easier

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/02/16/backgrounder-smith-wesson-mp15-assault-rifle-used-mass-shooting-marjory-stoneman
—

The Real News Network
The Free Market Threat to Democracy
Democratic institutions are not under stress–they’re under aggressive attack, as unconstrained financial greed overrides democratic decisions, says economist John Weeks

*Useful analysis provided by Weeks, but again, as with the segment with Ackerman on Mexico, I see a problem with presenting promoters of “progressive icons” such as Obrador, Sanders, Corbyn or (somebody’s god help me) Warren, and the deafening silence of the absence of anyone critiquing their contradictions.

The question is whether we want to be holistically informed on policies and personas, or simply pull them off the shelf, and proceed to cheerlead for those we pick.

I think history shows the latter to be a path leading to deep disappointment for those of us who see a dignified life for every person on this planet as the prime directive.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21125:The-Free-Market-Threat-to-Democracy
—

FAIR
Media Embrace New ‘Reform’ Group as Bulwark Against Guaranteed Healthcare
by Justin Anderson

*The “Third Way” is always a detour to a dead end

https://fair.org/home/media-embrace-new-reform-group-as-bulwark-against-guaranteed-healthcare
—

Democracy Now!
White Supremacy, Patriarchy and Guns: FL Shooter Had Record of Death Threats, Violence Against Women

*White flight from scrutiny

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/16/white_supremacy_patriarchy_and_guns_fl

2.15

Emotional Student Victims Lash Out at ‘Piece of Shit’ Trump in Wake of Latest School Massacre
“We did everything that we were supposed to do…Our government, our country has failed us and failed our kids and didn’t keep us safe”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/15/emotional-student-victims-lash-out-piece-shit-trump-wake-latest-school-massacre

‘Shame’: 12 Democrats Join With House GOP to Attack Americans With Disabilities Act
“I want us to remember there’s a distinct set of people who made this happen. Lobbyists for shopping malls and hotels and their money. Plus, of course, the reps who wanted that money.”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/15/shame-12-democrats-join-house-gop-attack-americans-disabilities-act

#FreeDennis: 300+ Students Stage Walkout After Texas Teen Detained by ICE
“Today it could be Dennis, tomorrow it could be us,” said one of the student organizers
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/15/freedennis-300-students-stage-walkout-after-texas-teen-detained-ice
—

The Wars No One Notices
Talking to a demobilized country
by Stephanie Savell

*What if they gave a war

And nobody noticed?

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/15/wars-no-one-notices
–

Net Neutrality Politics Is Local
“All politics is local,” the late House Speaker Tip O’Neill famously said
by Timothy Karr

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/15/net-neutrality-politics-local
—

The Real News Network
Florida Shooter Trained with Neo-Nazi Militia and Wore MAGA Hats, Fascist Group’s Leader Claims
The leader of the white supremacist fascist militia Republic of Florida said Nikolas Cruz, the suspected shooter who gunned down students at a Florida high school, was a member of his fascist organization
by Ben Norton

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21151:Florida-Shooter-Trained-with-Neo-Nazi-Militia-and-Wore-MAGA-Hats%2C-Fascist-Group%27s-Leader-Claims

Climate Change Costs Insurance Companies Billions, And Price is Rising
Insurance claims due to climate change-related disasters reached a record $135 billion in 2017. That should be a big wake-up call to the insurance industry, says Carbon Tracker CEO Anthony Hobley

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21071:Climate-Change-Costs-Insurance-Companies-Billions%2C-And-Price-is-Rising

Netanyahu Could Fall for Corruption, Not War Crimes
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s political future is in jeopardy, but his most serious crimes have nothing to do with the corruption charges that he may face, says Shir Hever

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21141:Netanyahu-Could-Fall-for-Corruption%2C-Not-War-Crimes

Zuma’s Catastrophic Presidency Ends in Forced Resignation
South African President Jacob Zuma resigned under intense pressure from his political party, the ANC, which ordered him to step down or face a no-confidence vote. Zuma has had a disastrous effect on South Africa’s nascent democracy, but a surging counter movement gives reason for hope, says Vishwas Satgar of Wits University

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21144:Zuma%27s-Catastrophic-Presidency-Ends-in-Forced-Resignation

Max Blumenthal in Gaza: Netanyahu Faces Scandal, Palestinians a Crisis
Reporting from the Gaza Strip, journalist and best-selling author Max Blumenthal says Netanyahu’s domestic corruption case has not even registered with a besieged Palestinian population under Israeli blockade

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21145:Max-Blumenthal-in-Gaza%3A-Netanyahu-Faces-Scandal%2C-Palestinians-a-Crisis
—

Petition update
Good news: no news of a 2018 contest in Marshall, MN
by Scott Slocum

https://www.change.org/p/5261454/u/22386735
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
A Disarming History of the Second Amendment

http://www.accuracy.org/release/a-disarming-history-of-the-second-amendment

Are Mass Shootings in U.S. Blowback from its Perpetual Wars?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/are-mass-shootings-in-u-s-blowback-from-its-perpetual-wars
—

Democracy Now!
Republican Lawmakers Refuse to Adopt Gun Control Despite 200 School Shootings Since Sandy Hook

*The right to remain violent

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/15/republican_lawmakers_refuse_to_adopt_gun

Kept Out: Banks Across U.S. Caught Systematically Rejecting People of Color for Home Loans

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/15/kept_out_banks_across_us_caught

2.14

Corbyn’s Labour Party Unveils Plan to Make UK ‘World Leader on Animal Welfare’
“No animal should be treated cruelly or made to suffer unnecessary pain”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/14/corbyns-labour-party-unveils-plan-make-uk-world-leader-animal-welfare

As More Americans Rely on Charity to Pay Medical Bills, Local Seattle News Station Buys and Forgives $1 Million of Debt
KIRO-TV worked with a New York-based charity to buy the medical debt of 1,000 Seattle-area residents
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/14/more-americans-rely-charity-pay-medical-bills-local-seattle-news-station-buys-and

Scientists: Window for avoiding 1.5C global warming ‘closed’
World is almost certain to breach danger threshold for millions of vulnerable people, study finds
by Megan Darby
Climate Change News

http://www.therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/3491

11 takeaways from the draft UN report on a 1.5C global warming limit
UN draft report says missing 1.5C warming target will multiply hunger, migration and conflict, but staying under will require unprecedented global cooperation
by Megan Darby
Climate Home News

*There’s no time like the present

Because there may be no time like the future

http://www.therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/3490
—

What Is the Price of Love?
Rich people are “less likely than poorer people to exhibit flexibility, empathy, and all the other traits” that lead to healthy, long-term relationships
by Sam Pizzigati

*Love Me (Legal) Tender

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/14/what-price-love
–

Yes, Replacing Food Stamps With a Blue Apron-Style Delivery System Is As Bad As It Sounds
The president sees his own wealth as the chief validator of his societal worth, and believes it makes him perfectly qualified to make choices about how low-income people live their lives
by Mara Pellittieri

*A feeding frenzy of sociopathy

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/14/yes-replacing-food-stamps-blue-apron-style-delivery-system-bad-it-sounds
—

Amnesty International – USA
Hungary: New Law Poses Existential Threat To NGOs

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/02/14/hungary-new-law-poses-existential-threat-ngos
—

The Real News Network
Leftist Hopeful’s Lead Signals Upheaval for Mexico
Leftist presidential candidate Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador enjoys a double-digit lead in Mexico’s presidential race despite an active smear campaign against him. A tactical alliance between divided leftist groups might still be possible, says John Ackerman

*I’d have like to have seen some substantial discussion of the Zapatista critique of Obrador, but I suppose that would be asking too much from one of his boosters.

I’m always leery of glowing endorsements of “progressive icons”, and I think an empirical assessment of same gives me good reason.

Always place your principles before pleasing personalities.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21107:Leftist-Hopeful%27s-Lead-Signals-Upheaval-for-Mexico
—

Petition
Abolish the statute of limitations on sex crimes in Washington State
by Christina-Marie Wright

*The pain remains

So should the chance for justice

https://www.change.org/p/jamie-pedersen-abolish-the-statute-of-limitations-on-sex-crimes-in-washington-state
—

FAIR
US Media Turn to ‘Superhero’ Pence to Combat Korean Olympic Peace Threat
by Adam Johnson

*I don’t how one paints Moon as “left-wing”, other than in comparison to his predecessor, but I do know how the corpress colors Pence in comic book red, white and blue righteousness.

Larry Nassar would be accorded the same accolades as an agent for “The Indispensable Empire” ™, wouldn’t he just?

https://fair.org/home/us-media-turn-to-superhero-pence-to-combat-korean-olympic-peace-threat
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Feb. 15 at 15: Iraq Invasion Opposition and the “Second Super Power”

*The feckless and the fearsome

http://www.accuracy.org/release/feb-15-at-15-iraq-invasion-opposition-and-the-second-super-power
—

Democracy Now!
V-Day: Global Movement to Stop Violence Against Women and Girls Marks 20th Anniversary

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/14/v_day_global_movement_to_stop

2.13

‘A Big Scare Tactic’: ExxonMobil Files ‘Conspiracy’ Counter Suits Against Climate Defenders
Critics charge that by “positioning itself as a victim rather than a perpetrator,” the company is aiming to “reframe the debate, use it as a diversionary tactic, and scare the heck out of everybody”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/13/big-scare-tactic-exxonmobil-files-conspiracy-counter-suits-against-climate-defenders
—

The U.S. Is Permanently Occupying Northern Syria, and That’s Trouble
How did the United States get tangled up in another Mideast quagmire?
by Reese Erlich

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/13/us-permanently-occupying-northern-syria-and-thats-trouble
–

The U.S. Returns to ‘Great Power Competition,’ With a Dangerous New Edge
The U.S. has taken aim at China and Russia for at least the last four administrations. Now, higher ups on all sides are warning of heightened tensions and war.
by Conn Hallinan

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/13/us-returns-great-power-competition-dangerous-new-edge
–

Surrendering a Brussels mosque: A Saudi break with ultra-conservatism?
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3493-surrendering-a-brussels-mosque-a-saudi-break-with-ultra-conservatism
–

Chinese extradition request puts crackdown on Uyghurs in the spotlight
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3489-chinese-extradition-request-puts-crackdown-on-uyghurs-in-the-spotlight
—

The Real News Network
Democracy in Crisis: The FBI and Dirty Cops
The Memo hysteria and a Baltimore corruption trial highlight the state of law enforcement in 2018
by Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21132:Democracy-in-Crisis%3A-The-FBI-and-Dirty-Cops

FBI Ignores Violent Neo-Nazi Hate Group, While Surveilling Antifascists and Black Activists
The Federal Bureau of Investigation says it has no records on one of the most notorious neo-Nazi hate groups in the United States. At the same time, the FBI has acknowledged that it is actively “investigating” antifascists and surveilling Black activists.
by Ben Norton

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21133:FBI-Ignores-Violent-Neo-Nazi-Hate-Group%2C-While-Surveilling-Antifascists-and-Black-Activists

Two Cops Found Guilty In Massive Police Corruption Scandal
Former Baltimore Police Commander Neill Franklin says the corruption exposed by the federal Gun Trace Task Force trial is an unavoidable consequence of America’s failed ‘War on Drugs’

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21129:Two-Cops-Found-Guilty-In-Massive-Police-Corruption-Scandal

Confronting Trudeau on Climate Lies and Kinder Morgan Pipeline
TRNN speaks with Clayton Thomas-Muller, an indigenous and environmental activist who challenged Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s pro-pipeline rhetoric during the PM’s cross-country town hall tour

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21095:Confronting-Trudeau-on-Climate-Lies-and-Kinder-Morgan-Pipeline

Merkel’s Grand Coalition Could Strengthen Germany’s Far Right
Germany’s Social Democratic Party and the Christian Democratic Union reached an agreement to renew their coalition, but the agreement comes at a steep cost for both parties, as the far-right AfD party continues to grow in popularity

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21120:Merkel%27s-Grand-Coalition-Could-Strengthen-Germany%27s-Far-Right

Koreas Talk Peace, But Does Trump Want War?
The thaw between North and South Korea at the Olympic Games culminated in an invitation to Moon Jae-in to visit Pyongyang. But the Trump administration’s militarism in the region could stand in the way, says professor Christine Hong

*On the subject of human rights, no one can argue that there’s far more than a mote in North Korea’s eye

But can a nation with its own massive ocular beam act other than as an utter hypocrite to point to it?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21122:Koreas-Talk-Peace%2C-But-Does-Trump-Want-War%3F

Trump Privatizes America
Trump’s infrastructure privatization plan is a hat trick that optimistically turns $200 billion into $1.5 trillion, is designed to eliminate the public sector and to bankrupt cities and states, says economist Michael Hudson

*The roads to their riches

And our ruination

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21121:Trump-Privatizes-America
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Israel’s Attempts to Destabilize Syria

http://www.accuracy.org/release/israels-attempts-to-destabilize-syria
—

FAIR
‘There’s an Alternative to the Top-Down Capitalist Corporation’
CounterSpin interview with Richard Wolff on questioning economic fundamentals
by Janine Jackson

*”Boss” is a four letter word

https://fair.org/home/theres-an-alternative-to-the-top-down-capitalist-corporation
—

Democracy Now!
As Deadly Flu Sweeps Country, Koch-Backed Group Fights Paid Sick Leave Policies Nationwide

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/13/as_deadly_flu_sweeps_the_us

2.12

Woman Dragged Out of West Virginia House Hearing For Listing Oil and Gas Contributions to Members
“The people who are going to be speaking in favor of this bill are all going to be paid by the industry”
by Russell Mokhiber

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/11/woman-dragged-out-west-virginia-house-hearing-listing-oil-and-gas-contributions
–

Disguising Imperialism: How Textbooks Get the Cold War Wrong and Dupe Students
As long as the drive for profits remains paramount to U.S. foreign policy, imperialism will be central to the very existence of the United States
by Ursula Wolfe-Rocca

*A display of historical artifice

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/12/disguising-imperialism-how-textbooks-get-cold-war-wrong-and-dupe-students
–

The Deadly Rule of the Oligarchs
Once oligarchs take power, rational, prudent and thoughtful responses to social, economic and political problems are ignored to feed insatiable greed
by Chris Hedges

*Our choice is to live on our feet

Or die on our knees

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/12/deadly-rule-oligarchs
–

Yes, Deniers, Millions of Americans are Among the Poorest People in the World
It’s hard for people with wealth and power to admit all this. Because then they might feel obligated to do something about it.
by Paul Buchheit

*Where does this country’s poverty of conscience rank?

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/12/yes-deniers-millions-americans-are-among-poorest-people-world
–

Trump Wants to Sell Our Water to Wall Street
Trump’s infrastructure scam is dangerous for our communities, workers, and the environment. Here’s a 5 point breakdown.
by Mary Grant

*The Artifice of the Steal

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/12/trump-wants-sell-our-water-wall-street
—

The Real News Network
‘Normalizing’ Britain’s Interest Rates by Raising Them May Slow Economy
The Bank of England announced plans to raise interest rates to combat inflation, but the actual effect will be to slow its economy and raise unemployment in light of a phantom threat, explains economist Mark Weisbrot

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21100:%27Normalizing%27-Britain%27s-Interest-Rates-by-Raising-Them-May-Slow-Economy

Guilty Verdict in Gun Trace Task Force Corruption Trial
Gun Trace Task Force members Daniel Hersl and Marcus Taylor have been found guilty on a number of charges tied to racketeering, conspiracy, and fraud
by Brandon Soderberg and Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21123:Guilty-Verdict-in-Gun-Trace-Task-Force-Corruption-Trial

Unregulated Financial Markets Created a Stock Bubble
The current average price-to-earnings ratio of stocks is still far above the historic average, so we should not be surprised that there is a stock bubble and that it burst, explains PERI economist Robert Pollin

*The speciousness of speculation

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21097:Unregulated-Financial-Markets-Created-a-Stock-Bubble

Is the Oil Industry Canada’s ‘Deep State’?
Justin Trudeau and Canada’s political elite are fighting for the tar sands and oil industry’s interests, even if it means Canada misses all of its climate targets. We speak to experts such as Kevin Taft, ex-Liberal Party politician and author of ‘Oil’s Deep State’

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21115:Is-the-Oil-Industry-Canada%27s-%27Deep-State%27%3F

Venezuelan Opposition Undecided Over Whether and Who to Run in Presidential Race
Following several months of negotiations between Venezuelan government and opposition representatives, the opposition refuses to sign the agreement, despite pressure from Spain’s ex-Prime Minister. Venezuela’s Charge D’Affairs in DC explains the panorama from the government’s perspective

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=21119%27%20style=%27color:#000;

Corporate Looting: Sub-Saharan Africa Loses $100B A Year
A recently released World Bank report shows that the wealth of sub-Saharan Africa has been steadily declining over the past several decades, as transnational corporations extract mineral wealth without adequately compensating the region, says economist Patrick Bond

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21103:Corporate-Looting%3A-Sub-Saharan-Africa-Loses-%24100B-A-Year

Federal Government Abdicates Responsibility for Investigating Massive Equifax Data Theft
The Consumer Finance Protection Bureau had initiated an investigation into the theft of data of 143 million US citizens, but now the CFPB abandoned the investigation under Trump’s budget director Mulvaney. Bill Black explains the consequences

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21083:Federal-Government-Abdicates-Responsibility-for-Investigating-Massive-Equifax-Data-Theft

Slum Clearance: Relocating Public Housing Residents Without Notice
Many residents of the Gilmor Homes housing project say they did not receive notice from Baltimore officials about the city’s plan to demolish six buildings and put 40 percent of the property in private hands

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21109:Slum-Clearance%3A-Relocating-Public-Housing-Residents-Without-Notice

Syrian War Spirals in Trump’s Dangerous New Phase
As top US officials speak openly of targeting Iran and Assad now that ISIS is defeated, reporter Ben Norton and Syrian analyst Ehsani discuss the escalating Syrian war on multiple fronts

*Skin in the game

And the blood dripping from it

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21116:Syrian-War-Spirals-in-Trump%27s-Dangerous-New-Phase

Under its New Leader Jagmeet Singh, Will Canada’s NDP Finally Call for Sanctions on Israel?
Activists Genivieve Nevin and Yazan Khader say there is strong grassroots support in the NDP for a ban on settlement products

*Who’s willing to pay the toll on the road from words to action?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21096:Under-its-New-Leader-Jagmeet-Singh%2C-Will-Canada%27s-NDP-Finally-Call-for-Sanctions-on-Israel%3F

Tillerson Tries and Fails to Rally Latin American Support for Sanctions Against Venezuela
The US Secretary of State recently completed a tour of Latin American countries where he unsuccessfully tried to rally support for regional sanctions against Venezuela. However, as Venezuela’s Charge D’Affairs in DC explains, US unilateral financial sanctions against Venezuela are causing significant problems for the country

*You don’t have to believe Venezuela is a socialist heaven to see that the US is intent on making it a neoliberal hell.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21060:Tillerson-Tries-and-Fails-to-Rally-Latin-American-Support-for-Sanctions-Against-Venezuela

Pugh Blames Press for Baltimore’s ‘Perception Problem’
At an event at the Parkway Theater, Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh defended her administration and attacked the media
by Dharna Noor

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21113:Pugh-Blames-Press-for-Baltimore%27s-%27Perception-Problem%27
—

FAIR
DSA-Endorsed Judge’s Bail Reforms Prompt Media Attack
by Adam Johnson

*Law en[d]orcement

https://fair.org/home/dsa-endorsed-judges-bail-reforms-prompt-media-attack

Vox’s US Government-Linked Experts Present Options for Korea: Sanctions or War
by Ben Norton

*Vox propagare

https://fair.org/home/vox-experts-north-korea-us-government
—

Democracy Now!
Judges Across U.S. Are Halting Trump’s Mass Deportations & Ruling Immigrants Have Due Process Rights

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/12/judges_across_us_are_halting_trumps
—

The opioid-scam epidemic
Can supplements marketed for opioid withdrawal speed detox? Here’s what our investigation found and how the FDA and the FTC have responded to it
by David Schardt
Nutrition Action

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/dietary-supplements/the-opioid-scam-epidemic

Do Doctors Profit from Chemotherapy?
by Mike Adams

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/profit-from-chemotherapy-video

2.9

Here Are the Democrats, 36 Senators and 73 in the House, Who Voted Just Against Dreamers
Democrats have vowed repeatedly to protect immigrant families, but they just gave away the only leverage they had. And, yes, they have names.
by Jon Queally, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Democratic integrity?

Dream on

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/09/here-are-democrats-36-senators-and-73-house-who-voted-just-against-dreamers

Trying to Deliver “Failing” Grade to Betsy Devos, Teachers Locked Out of Education Dept
“People are universally appalled, universally aghast by a year of failures”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Class – in every sense – dismissed

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/09/trying-deliver-failing-grade-betsy-devos-teachers-locked-out-education-dept
—

South Africa’s Shack Dwellers See Politics Very Differently Than the Average Westerner
by Vijay Prashad

*The struggle continues

Against many who claim its mantle

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/132-more-blog-posts-from-vijay-prashad
—

Sierra Club
Senate Of Virginia Allows Dominion To Regulate Itself While Ratepayers Foot The Bill

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/02/09/sierra-club-senate-virginia-allows-dominion-regulate-itself-while-ratepayers

Earthrights International
Peruvian Subsistence Farmer Asks Court to Continue Case Against U.S. Company in Delaware

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/02/09/peruvian-subsistence-farmer-asks-court-continue-case-against-us-company-delaware
—

The Real News Network
US Ambassador Confirms Billions On Regime Change in Syria, Debunking ‘Obama Did Nothing’
The United States spent at least $12 billion in Syria-related military and civilian expenses in the four years from 2014 through 2017, according to the former U.S. ambassador to the country
by Ben Norton

*A Nobel for “nothing”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21110:US-Ambassador-Confirms-Billions-On-Regime-Change-in-Syria%2C-Debunking-%27Obama-Did-Nothing%27

BDS Activists and Canada’s Communist Party Sue the City of Montreal for Civil Rights Violations
Claims that the City of Montreal illegally confiscated 2015 electoral posters featuring a dead Palestinian child go to trial in Quebec Superior Court

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21106:BDS-Activists-and-Canada%27s-Communist-Party-Sue-the-City-of-Montreal-for-Civil-Rights-Violations

Neoliberalism and the Rise of the Net Social Wage
A new paper from PERI finds that there is a sizable deviation in net social wage data in the 21st century. The study’s author, Katherine A. Moos, examines possible causes, such as healthcare inflation and unemployment, and aims to explain why neoliberal governments would tolerate a growing discrepancy between labor benefits and taxation

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21085:Neoliberalism-and-the-Rise-of-the-Net-Social-Wage
—

Petition
American Kidney Fund
Support legislation to keep dialysis patients insured
Tell Congress to pass H. R. 3976

https://www.change.org/p/u-s-house-of-representatives-support-legislation-to-keep-dialysis-patients-insured-pass-h-r-3976-today
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Does Trump Decide on War?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/does-trump-decide-on-war
—

Democracy Now!
Scores of Democratic Lawmakers Join GOP to Back Budget Bill with No Protection for DREAMers

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/9/scores_of_democratic_lawmakers_join_gop

Olympics Begin with Unified Korean Team Marching Together as Trump Continues to Threaten N. Korea

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/9/olympics_begin_with_unified_korean_team

2.8

50+ Groups Back Landmark Effort to Halt ‘Out of Control’ Factory Farming in Iowa
“Iowa is suffering under the enormous weight of a business that has no respect for the people, environment, animals and future of the state”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/08/50-groups-back-landmark-effort-halt-out-control-factory-farming-iowa
—

Drug Wars, Missing Money, and a Phantom $500 Million
Pentagon watchdog calls out two commands for financial malfeasance
by Nick Turse

*Where failure is an option in service to the “success” of the grander strategy

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/08/drug-wars-missing-money-and-phantom-500-million
–

Puerto Rico Braces for Wave of School Privatization
“The education privatization playbook uses politics to open the door for more privately controlled schools that are funded by tax dollars but are not democratically controlled”
by Jeff Bryant

*Privateers

Public tears

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/08/puerto-rico-braces-wave-school-privatization
–

Kindergarteners In Hebron Protest Israel’s Detention Of 350 Children
They asked the international community to protect them and for international law to be upheld
by Badee Dwaik

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/08/kindergarteners-hebron-protest-israels-detention-350-children
—

Oil Change International
House Poised to Vote for Big Oil Subsidy in Budget Deal

*Greasing the sleaze

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/02/08/house-poised-vote-big-oil-subsidy-budget-deal
—

The Real News Network
Exxon Tells Investors Not to Worry About Climate Change, But Should They?
Exxon released a climate impact analysis that says global policies to combat climate change pose “little risk” to its investments. But the attitude of investors toward climate risk is rapidly changing as fossil fuels lose their monopoly over energy generation, says Carbon Tracker CEO Anthony Hobley

*With responsibility for untold deaths and illnesses, do we really want fossil fuel corps to “get it right”

Or get the hell out?

And here’s a different take on REDD’s “very robust regulatory regime”, which Lascaris might have mentioned

https://www.democracynow.org/2014/12/10/brazilian_indigenous_leader_carbon_trading_scheme

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21068:Exxon-Tells-Investors-Not-to-Worry-About-Climate-Change%2C-But-Should-They%3F

What’s Preventing California Democrats From Passing Medicare For All?
California Democratic Party leaders are rallying behind an incumbent state senator who opposes Medicare for All and has ties to the medical industry
by Michael Sainato

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21105:What%27s-Preventing-California-Democrats-From-Passing-Medicare-For-All%3F

Students Push City Council To Consider Banning Styrofoam
Pushed by student activists, Baltimore City Council President and others voice their support for banning polystyrene foam food containers in the city

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=21092

Corporate Media Hires CIA, Pentagon Officials as Talking Heads – Who Push for More War
CNN, MSNBC, and more corporate news networks hire former top U.S. government officials as analysts, who call for a more belligerent foreign policy, Ben Norton reports

*Why quote ’em

When you can hire ’em?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21093:Corporate-Media-Hires-CIA%2C-Pentagon-Officials-as-Talking-Heads—Who-Push-for-More-War

The Rise and Fall of the Stock Market: What to Expect
Economist Dean Baker says that after such a sharp run-up in stock prices, “it really shouldn’t be a surprise to anyone that you’re going to see some downturn in the market”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21086:The-Rise-and-Fall-of-the-Stock-Market%3A-What-to-Expect
—

FAIR
CEOs Get Paid a Lot? NYT Says ‘Well, Actually…’ to This ‘True but Misleading’ Fact
by Adam Johnson

*Truth or inconsequences

https://fair.org/home/ceos-get-paid-a-lot-nyt-says-well-actually-to-this-true-but-misleading-fact

2.7

Trump’s Paid Family Leave Plan Would Punish Those Who Choose To Have Kids
If you’re not particularly well-to-do and you want a family, in other words, you’ll need to be prepared to pay for it in your old age: your family, your choice, your problem
by Elizabeth Bruenig

*Newspeaking of “family values”

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/07/trumps-paid-family-leave-plan-would-punish-those-who-choose-have-kids
—

The Real News Network
Seneca Nation Fights Fracking Wastewater Disposal Plan
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection is reviewing a proposal to dump 42,000 gallons a day of treated fracking wastewater upstream from Seneca Nation territory
by Michael Sainato

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21091:Seneca-Nation-Fights-Fracking-Wastewater-Disposal-Plan

How the Gun Trace Task Force’s Overtime Abuse Prevented Policing
As closing arguments begin tomorrow in Baltimore Police corruption trial, the extent of the dirty cops’ time off — including months without working — and their connections to crimes become clearer
by Brandon Soderberg and Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21089:How-the-Gun-Trace-Task-Force%27s-Overtime-Abuse-Prevented-Policing
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Thousands Decry MSNBC Ignoring U.S.-Backed Carnage in Yemen While Obsessing Over Russia

*A liberal dose of corpress callousness

http://www.accuracy.org/release/thousands-decry-msnbc-ignoring-u-s-backed-carnage-in-yemen-while-obsessing-over-russia
—

Democracy Now!
NYC Taxi Driver Kills Himself at City Hall after Condemning Uber & Politicians for Financial Ruin

*Dems pave the roads to ruin

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/7/nyc_taxi_driver_kills_himself_at

Bresha Meadows, Teenage Girl Who Killed Her Abusive Father, Finally Freed After 10 Months in Jail

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/7/bresha_meadows_teenage_girl_who_killed

2.6

Exxon Reports on Climate Risk and Sees Almost None
The oil giant tells investors that even if Paris climate goals are met, it could still produce all the oil in its existing fields and keep investing in new reserves
by John H. Cushman Jr.

*Faux future perfect

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/633-john-h-cushman-jr/3480-exxon-reports-on-climate-risk-and-sees-almost-none
—

The Real News Network
Chicago’s Democratic Mayor Pushes Trump’s Education Agenda
Students face displacement as Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel falls in line with President Trump’s and Education Secretary Betsy DeVos’ push for privatization
by Michael Sainato

*Burying our children’s futures under “common ground”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21073:Chicago%27s-Democratic-Mayor-Pushes-Trump%27s-Education-Agenda

Baltimore Public Housing Resident Suffers Concussion from Falling Ceiling
The Real News continues to document the deteriorating conditions in subsidized housing as a woman who told her story of sex abuse continues to endure dangerous living conditions

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21066:Baltimore-Public-Housing-Resident-Suffers-Concussion-from-Falling-Ceiling

Deputy Commissioner Named in Corruption Case in 2009 Killing, Resigns
Former Detective Momodu Gondo testified that colleague Jemell Rayam “murdered” a man in 2009 and Deputy Commissioner Dean Palmere helped coach cover-up
by Baynard Woods and Brandon Soderberg

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21072:Deputy-Commissioner-Named-in-Corruption-Case-in-2009-Killing%2C-Resigns

Israel Pays a Bounty of $5,000 and Arms for Each African Asylum Seeker Expelled
Israel was the main driver behind the 1951 UN Convention on the Rights of Refugees, but after signing it, it has never respected the rights of refugees. In fact, it has created one of the biggest refugee crisis the world has seen, says journalist and filmmaker Lia Tarachansky

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20965:Israel-Pays-a-Bounty-of-%245%2C000-and-Arms-for-Each-African-Asylum-Seeker-Expelled

Far From Hurting Putin, US ‘Oligarch’ List Could Help
The Trump administration has admitted a new report about Russian oligarchs is based on a Forbes list. Stephen F. Cohen, professor emeritus at New York University and Princeton University, says the report could ultimately help Putin force wealthy Russians to bring their overseas money back home. Cohen also discusses Russia’s upcoming election

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21067:Far-From-Hurting-Putin%2C-US-%27Oligarch%27-List-Could-Help

Kansas Teacher Scores Big Win for Israel Boycott, and Free Speech
A federal judge has ruled that Esther Koontz’s constitutional rights were violated when she was denied a Kansas teaching job over her refusal to renounce the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions movement (BDS) against Israel

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21062:Kansas-Teacher-Scores-Big-Win-for-Israel-Boycott%2C-and-Free-Speech

Afrikan Black Coalition Conference 2018 Highlights
Collective Blackness and Intersectional Action Executive Producer Eddie Conway speaks with ABC organizer Star Bacon about black student organizing in higher education

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21032:Afrikan-Black-Coalition-Conference-2018-Highlights
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Another Great Crash?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/another-great-crash
—

FAIR
‘Violence’ Becomes ‘Unruliness’ When It’s Sports Fans, Not BLM Protesters, Breaking Rules
by Eoin Higgins

*The difference between cris de cœur

And circus droppings

https://fair.org/home/violence-becomes-unruliness-when-its-sports-fans-not-blm-protesters-breaking-rules

Media’s State of the Union: Normalizing Lies and Hoping for Compromise
by Justin Anderson

*The teleprompt flutters
 The power surge brings
 An easy speed message
 Falls into routine
                           — “Until the Day Is Done”, R.E.M.

https://fair.org/home/medias-state-of-the-union-normalizing-lies-and-hoping-for-compromise
—

Democracy Now!
When Deportation is a Death Sentence: The Fatal Consequences of U.S. Immigration Policy

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/6/when_deportation_is_a_death_sentence

A More Beautiful & Terrible History: The Whitewashing & Distortion of Rosa Parks and MLK’s Legacies

*Pedestals of perversion

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/6/a_more_beautiful_terrible_history_the

2.5

Fly Kites Not Drones 2018
by Maya Evans

http://vcnv.org/2018/02/04/fly-kites-not-drones-2018-maya-evans
–

A 14-Year-Old Girl Forced Into the Gaza Cage
Another routine mishap for Israel’s occupation
by Jonathan Cook

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/05/14-year-old-girl-forced-gaza-cage
–

Ecuador After the “Consulta Popular”: Left, Right, or Neither?
by Gregory Wilpert and Alberto Acosta

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/748-gregory-wilpert-and-alberto-acosta/3479-ecuador-after-the-qconsulta-popularq-left-right-or-neither
–

One Person’s Terrorist? Reflections on Zohra Drif’s Memoir of the Algerian Revolution
by Bill Fletcher Jr.

*It may seem simplistic, but for me the heart of the matter is how we struggle against the denial of our humanity, without diminishing it by doing so.

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/516-bill-fletcher-jr-/3476-one-persons-terrorist-reflections-on-zohra-drifs-memoir-of-the-algerian-revolution
–

Focus on Zambia, Where Hunger Exists Besides Copper Wealth
by Vijay Prashad

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/132-more-blog-posts-from-vijay-prashad/3474-focus-on-zambia-where-hunger-exists-besides-copper-wealth
—

The Real News Network
Max Blumenthal and Ex-FBI Agent Coleen Rowley on the Nunes Memo
The just-released Nunes memo alleges surveillance abuses by the FBI and Justice Department in their handling of the Trump-Russia probe. Former FBI Special Agent Coleen Rowley and award-winning journalist Max Blumenthal weigh in

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21049:Max-Blumenthal-and-Ex-FBI-Agent-Coleen-Rowley-on-the-Nunes-Memo

Poland’s New Holocaust Denial Law Erases History
A new law passed in Poland criminalizes references to Polish complicity in the holocaust and is designed to shore up the rightwing Polish government’s nationalist credentials. Carol Schaeffer discusses the law’s background

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21045:Poland%27s-New-Holocaust-Denial-Law-Erases-History

Special Report: The Never-Ending Coup in Honduras (2/2)
The Inauguration of an Unelected President

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=21058

Black Lives Matter Holds National Week of Action At Schools
Public school teachers Jesse Hagopian of Seattle and Cristina Duncan Evans of Baltimore discuss the Feb. 5-10 week of action aimed at bringing social justice into classrooms across the country

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=21046

Dueling Proposals to Ensure Casino Money Goes to Classrooms
The Real News examines the debate around Baltimore school funding and looks at two bills that would put casino revenue into a ‘lock box’ for education

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=21056

Max Blumenthal: US is Arming Neo-Nazis in Ukraine
Max Blumenthal reports that the US has provided military assistance to the Azov Battalion, known as a bastion of neo-Nazism within the Ukrainian armed forces. He also discusses US and Israeli ties to the far-right government in Poland, where neo-Nazism is on the rise

*Might the prospect of the rise of neo Nazism in Eastern Europe leading to an increase in emigration of Jews to Israel play a role in the Israeli government’s strategy here?

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=21048

Undoing the New Deal – The Age of Lunacy (Part 8)
Historian Peter Kuznick says Eisenhower called for decreased militarization, then Dulles reversed the policy; the Soviets tried to end the cold war after the death of Stalin; crazy schemes involving nuclear weapons and the Bay of Pigs invasion of Cuba put the world of the eve of destruction – with host Paul Jay

*Which is to say that Killer Clown is only a variant of style

Not sociopathy

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21011:Undoing-the-New-Deal—The-Age-of-Lunacy-%28Pt8%29

Trump Preemptively Dismisses Upcoming Venezuelan Presidential Vote
In an effort to discredit Venezuela’s upcoming presidential election, the Trump administration is rallying conservative governments in Latin America to discredit the vote and isolate Venezuela. If the opposition enters the race divided and if new economic measures work, President Maduro could still win, explains Lucas Koerner

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21050:Trump-Preemptively-Dismisses-Upcoming-Venezuelan-Presidential-Vote

Lawyers Claim State’s Attorney’s Office “Encouraged” Gun Trace Task Force Crimes
Flanked by victims of “police gang,” Ivan Bates and other defense attorneys slam Marilyn Mosby’s office in his bid for top prosecutor post

*Recall Mosby’s “progressive” rhetoric, and solder it into our tiny little minds that to take a public official at their word is akin to yanking out our molars in anticipation of the tooth fairy.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21051:Lawyers-Claim-State%27s-Attorney%27s-Office-%22Encouraged%22-Gun-Trace-Task-Force-Crimes
—

Petition
Domestic Violence Victims shouldn’t have to wait a year and day to divorce their abuser
by Sarah Robinson

https://www.change.org/p/north-carolina-general-assembly-domestic-violence-victims-shouldn-t-have-to-wait-a-year-and-day-to-divorce-their-abuser
—

FAIR
Western Media Hail Ecuador’s Cynical President Moreno
by Joe Emersberger

*A man after their own void of heart

https://fair.org/home/western-media-hail-ecuadors-cynical-president-moreno
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
U.S. Nuclear Stance Toward Russia Increasing Existential Threats

*No gridlock on the door to doomsday

http://www.accuracy.org/release/u-s-nuclear-stance-toward-russia-increasing-existential-threats

“Massive Victory”: Britain Stops Extradition to U.S. of Activist Lauri Love

http://www.accuracy.org/release/massive-victory-britain-stops-extradition-to-u-s-of-activist-lauri-love
—

Democracy Now!
Johann Hari: To Treat Depression, Provide Meaningful Work, Housing & a Basic Income, Not Just Drugs

*I don’t mean to rag on Hari, as I think he’s made many imperative points here, but if we confront depression by collectively confronting repression, why he seemingly sought Madame Mayhem’s endorsement of his work is a textbook case of cognitive dissonance, don’t you think?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/2/part_2_johann_hari_on_uncovering

As Paul Ryan Touts a Secretary’s $1.50 Weekly Pay Hike, Koch Bros. Reap $1.4B from GOP Tax Plan

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/5/as_paul_ryan_touts_a_secretarys
—

New guidelines mean you might have high blood pressure
by Caitlin Dow
Nutrition Action

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/heart-and-disease-cat/new-guidelines-mean-you-might-have-high-blood-pressure

2.2

‘Crisis No One Is Talking About’: GOP Threatens Healthcare of 26 Million People
Sens. Sanders and Baldwin demand urgent action as thousands of community health centers face uncertain future without federal funds
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/02/crisis-no-one-talking-about-gop-threatens-healthcare-26-million-people
—

Spying on the Wrong People: The Hypocrisy of the Nunes Memo & FISA
Who voted for warrantless surveillance of Americans? Devin Nunes and his whole committee. (And, of course, plenty of Democrats)
by Juan Cole

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/02/spying-wrong-people-hypocrisy-nunes-memo-fisa
–

Meet The New Boss, Same As The Old Boss
Why should we subsidize the failed business model of health insurers?
by Michael Lighty

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/02/meet-new-boss-same-old-boss
–

Keep Border Spy Tech Out of Dreamer Protection Bills
The bill would empower DHS to decide which countries are “high-risk,” based on “any” criteria it deems “appropriate”
by Adam Schwartz

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/02/02/keep-border-spy-tech-out-dreamer-protection-bills
–

Retribution and Revenge in the Wisconsin John Doe
by Mary Bottari

https://www.exposedbycmd.org/2018/01/11/retribution-revenge-wisconsin-john-doe
—

The Real News Network
How the Gun Trace Task Force Fueled Violence and Overtime During Baltimore Uprising
Testimony reveals that GTTF members conspired to sell drugs stolen from pharmacies during unrest
by Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21043:How-the-Gun-Trace-Task-Force-Fueled-Violence-and-Overtime-During-Baltimore-Uprising
—

World Beyond War
Allow Parents the Option to Protect Kids from Military Recruiters in High Schools

https://act.rootsaction.org/p/dia/action3/common/public/?action_KEY=12759
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Amazon: Profits at What Price?

*Low prices often come at a high cost

http://www.accuracy.org/release/amazon-profits-at-what-price
—

FAIR
Media Consensus: Dreamers Weren’t Worth a Shutdown
by Joshua Cho

*On matters of conscience, the corpress will always counsel its compromise

https://fair.org/home/media-consensus-dreamers-werent-worth-a-shutdown

Newsweek and USA Today Need Standards for Opinion Writers
by Stacy Malkan

*Perhaps it’s not “ignoring”

But “enabling”?

https://fair.org/home/newsweek-and-usa-today-need-standards-for-opinion-writers
—

Democracy Now!
“They Repress Us Because We’re Poor”: Immigrant Rights Activist Speaks from Sanctuary in Colorado

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/2/they_repress_us_because_were_poor

2.1

With Latest Dystopian Step, Amazon Sparks Worries With Patent on Worker-Tracking Wristband
Patent designs detail how wristbands would vibrate if wearer moves hand “incorrectly” when completing warehouse work
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Effizienz Über Alles

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/02/01/latest-dystopian-step-amazon-sparks-worries-patent-worker-tracking-wristband
—

Food & Water Watch
Murphy Supports Fracking Ban in DRBC; Now New Jersey and Others Must Enact Legislation to Move Off Fossil Fuels

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/02/01/murphy-supports-fracking-ban-drbc-now-new-jersey-and-others-must-enact
—

The Real News Network
Trump’s Law-and-Order Policies Gain Ground in Blue States
Even with community opposition in blue states like Maryland, racially tinged rhetoric and fear mongering are being used to roll back criminal justice reform

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21035:Trump%27s-Law-and-Order-Policies-Gain-Ground-in-Blue-States

A Booming Stock Market Does Not Mean a Strong US Economy
During his State of the Union speech, Trump touted the recent stock market boom as proof of how well the U.S. is doing. However, as economist Bill Black explains, the boom has nothing to do with new investment

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21027:A-Booming-Stock-Market-Does-Not-Mean-a-Strong-US-Economy

How Did Trump Win? Follow the Dark Money
A major new study says a last-minute infusion of “dark money,” coupled with declining unionization rates, were among the key factors that handed Donald Trump the biggest upset in US political history. We speak to co-author Thomas Ferguson of the University of Massachusetts

*When you destroy folks’ sense of security due to the loss of union representation, you set them up for demagoguery, don’t you?

I need to point out that Killer Clown didn’t win. Voter suppression and and other electoral skullduggery (which the Dems didn’t decry, since no Russians were involved) ensured his “victory”.

Of course, if the Democratic Party were anything more than a Wall Street and Silicon Valley subsidiary, it wouldn’t have mattered, would it?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21029:How-Did-Trump-Win%3F-Follow-the-Dark-Money

The Movement to Release US Political Prisoners Requires a Strong Legal Team
Executive Producer Eddie Conway is featured on a panel about US political prisoners at Red Emma’s, an anarchist bookstore in Baltimore City. Conway speaks to the current political climate in the US and offers advice on how to best organize toward the release of US political prisoners

*They’re going to come, and the only place to run

Will be toward each other

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21016:The-Movement-to-Release-US-Political-Prisoners-Requires-a-Strong-Legal-Team
—

FAIR
Another Warmonger Rewarded for Being Wrong on Iraq War
Max Boot joins WaPo opinion staff, where opinion was 91 percent in favor of Iraq invasion
by Adam Johnson

*Democracy dies in our darkness

https://fair.org/home/another-warmonger-rewarded-for-being-wrong-on-iraq-war
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Stressing Free Speech, Court Strikes Down Israel Boycott Punishment

http://www.accuracy.org/release/stressing-free-speech-court-strikes-down-israel-boycott-punishment
—

Democracy Now!
16 Years of War: Trump Joins Obama & Bush in Using SOTU to Hail “Progress” in Afghan War

*Why is it that very few pieces on Afghanistan from “alternative outlets” even mention the geostrategic imperatives of empire, much less discuss them in depth?

You can talk all you want about how the US isn’t there to help the Afghan people, but there’s very little analysis of just why it is there, don’t you think?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/1/16_years_of_war_trump_joins

Johann Hari on How the “Junk Values” of Neoliberalism Drive Depression and Anxiety in the U.S.

*Neoliberalism is simply a variant of capitalism, which is predicated on exploitation.

The exploited obviously have always suffered mentally from their lot. What we’re seeing more recently is a wider spectrum of people who have no faith in their life “working out” for them.

Only by understanding that any hope lies with taking collective action to not simply reform the system we’re trapped in, but replace it with one that uplifts our humanity, will we find that life worth living.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/2/1/johann_hari_on_how_the_junk

January 2018

 

1.31

The Real News Network
Trump’s SOTU Calls for More Spending on Nuclear Weapons and Galvanizes Extremism
Max Blumenthal, Phyllis Bennis, and Norman Solomon discuss President Trump’s State of the Union. Rather than deliver a serious address, they say Trump offered a simplistic narrative designed to galvanize extremism

*Killer Clown is no joke

Can the same be said for Puerile Pelosi and the rest of the risible “#Resistance”?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21020:Trump%27s-SOTU-Calls-for-More-Spending-on-Nuclear-Weapons-and-Galvanizes-Extremism

California Democratic Party Shields Top Dems From Primary Challengers
Despite petition challenges from primary opponents, the California Democratic Party formally endorsed Nancy Pelosi and House Speaker Anthony Rendon
by Michael Sainato

*There are other reasons why Dems don’t challenge Republican vote rigging, but their own incestuous skullduggery factors into the equation, don’t you think?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21025:California-Democratic-Party-Shields-Top-Dems-From-Primary-Challengers

Gun Trace Task Force Trial In Baltimore Highlights Structural Inequality
The details emerging from the ongoing corruption trial highlight the inequality inherent in policing a segregated city
by Baynard Woods and Brandon Soderberg

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21024:Gun-Trace-Task-Force-Trial-In-Baltimore-Highlights-Structural-Inequality
—

Petition
GetEQUAL
#FueraRocha – Demand LULAC National President Roger C. Rocha Jr. Resign Now!

https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/fuerarocha-demand-lulac-national-president-roger-c-rocha-jr-resign-now
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Trump Echos Apple’s PR: American Dream or Corporate Serfdom?

*As American as Apple’s obscene piece of the pie

http://www.accuracy.org/release/trump-echos-apples-pr-american-dream-or-corporate-serfdom
—

Democracy Now!
Made in the USA: The Real History of the MS-13 Gang Trump Talked About in State of the Union

*It’s always painful to hear a victim of the historical injustice wrought by “the greatest nation in the world” so fulsomely praise its “virtues”

But she is a politician, ain’t she?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/31/made_in_the_usa_the_real
—

Nutrition Action
The warming climate may be stoking foodborne pathogens
Has climate change increased your odds of getting a nasty bout of food poisoning?

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/food-safety/the-warming-climate-may-be-stoking-foodborne-pathogens

1.30

US Surpasses Cayman Islands to Become Second Largest Tax Haven on Earth
“This is not a ranking in which the U.S. wants to be number one or even number two. We have one of the strongest economies and one of the most secret. It’s a perfect recipe for attracting the proceeds of crime, corruption, and tax evasion.”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/30/us-surpasses-cayman-islands-become-second-largest-tax-haven-earth

Medicare-for-All Proponents Warn Against Billionaires’ Plan to “Disrupt” Healthcare Industry
“We can do better than a healthcare system run by a rent-seeker, a slumlord and a Wall Street bank. It’s called Medicare for All.”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Noblesse o-bilge

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/30/medicare-all-proponents-warn-against-billionaires-plan-disrupt-healthcare-industry
—

A Treacherous Crossing
The “good guys” shaping and selling U.S. foreign policy and weapon sales exemplify the heartless indifference of the smugglers who gamble human life in exceedingly dangerous situations
by Kathy Kelly

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/30/treacherous-crossing
–

The Time of Finance
by Martijn Konings

*When the very nature of the game vitiates its “rules”

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/745-martijn-konings/3468-the-time-of-finance
—

The Real News Network
Trump’s Infrastructure Plan Would Facilitate Water Privatization in Baltimore and Beyond
Mary Grant of Food and Water Watch says the package won’t yield water cost savings and will obstruct local efforts to make water more affordable

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21004:Trump%27s-Infrastructure-Plan-Would-Facilitate-Water-Privatization-in-Baltimore-and-Beyond

‘Zero Legitimacy’ for New Government in Honduras
Independent Filmmaker Jesse Freeston reports from Honduras on how the newly inaugurated President Hernandez lacks all legitimacy in the general population, not only because of the fraud allegations, but also because of the massive corruption scandals his government is covering up

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21001:%27Zero-Legitimacy%27-for-New-Government-in-Honduras

Trudeau Government Ignores Scandal of Toxic ‘Tailings Ponds’
Tailings pond remediation expert Regan Boychuk says industry giants have been given 70 years to clean up contamination that scientists say is currently damaging the environment and causing soaring cancer rates in indigenous communities downstream

*Liberals’ largesse toward the likes of Trudeau

“Fool me once, shame on you

Fool me twice, shame on me

Fool me three times …

Well, do you want another Harper?”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21002:Trudeau-Government-Ignores-Scandal-of-Toxic-%27Tailings-Ponds%27

Democratic Establishment Tries To Keep Progressives Off Congressional Ballots
Exclusive: Several congressional candidates are facing expensive lawsuits from the Democratic establishment, who are challenging their ballot petitions
by Michael Sainato

*”We are better than this.”

If “We” is in reference to the Democratic Party, an empirical view would take issue with such an assertion, wouldn’t it?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21008:Democratic-Establishment-Tries-To-Keep-Progressives-Off-Congressional-Ballots
—

FAIR
6 Elements of Police Spin: An Object Lesson in Copspeak
by Adam Johnson

*Obscured reference

https://fair.org/home/6-elements-of-police-spin-an-object-lesson-in-copspeak
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Robert Parry, ConsortiumNews Founder Who Challenged the Establishment, Dies

http://www.accuracy.org/release/robert-parry-consortiumnews-founder-who-challenged-the-establishment-dies
—

Democracy Now!
Ravi Ragbir of the New Sanctuary Coalition: I Was Detained Because of Our Immigration Activism

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/30/ravi_ragbir_of_the_new_sanctuary

Two Immigrants Detained in NJ While Taking Children to School; Third Seeks Sanctuary in Church

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/30/two_immigrants_detained_in_nj_while

1.29

The Useful Idiocy of Donald Trump
Trump, who has no inclination or ability to govern, has handed the machinery of government over to the bankers, corporate executives, right-wing think tanks, intelligence chiefs and generals
by Chris Hedges

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/29/useful-idiocy-donald-trump
–

Let’s Stop Sexual Harassment and Violence Before They Begin With Comprehensive Sex Ed
To stop the objectification of women and power imbalance that fuels this societal epidemic, we need to start long before anyone enters the workplace
by Melissa Goodman

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/29/lets-stop-sexual-harassment-and-violence-they-begin-comprehensive-sex-ed
–

Six Big Losers in Our ‘Booming’ Economy
We’re approaching third-world status in parts of our nation
by Paul Buchheit

*MAGA

Make Another Gilded Age

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/29/six-big-losers-our-booming-economy
—

The Real News Network
Harm Reduction: Checking Street Drugs for Fentanyl
Using invasive drug testing technology to check street drugs for fentanyl could save lives, but will the city support it?
by Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:21006:Harm-Reduction%3A-Checking-Street-Drugs-for-Fentanyl

Undoing the New Deal: Eisenhower Builds an Arsenal of Nuclear Weapons and a Cabinet of Millionaires (Part 7)
Historian Peter Kuznick says that in spite of his famous warning, Eisenhower can be called the father of the industrial-military complex; when he takes office, the U.S. has a 1,000 nuclear weapons, when he leaves, it’s 22,000 – with host Paul Jay

*We can’t learn from history if all we’re taught are its lies

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20753:Undoing-the-New-Deal%3A–Eisenhower-Builds-an-Arsenal-of-Nuclear-Weapons-and-a-Cabinet-of-Millionaires

Homeless Advocates Protest Encampment Eviction
City officials and advocates for the homeless dispute the circumstances under which a prominent homeless encampment in downtown Baltimore was cleared on Friday

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20998:Homeless-Advocates-Protest-Encampment-Eviction

Honduras: The Never-ending Coup
Special report from the hemisphere’s most controversial inauguration

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20996:Honduras%3A-The-Never-ending-Coup
—

Petition update
Consumers for Auto Reliability and Safety
Defective Takata airbags claim more lives

https://www.change.org/p/2059055/u/22312975
—

FAIR
Tillerson’s Promise of More War in Syria Gets Warm Reception From Corporate Media
by Gregory Shupak

*Cheering on the charnel

https://fair.org/home/tillersons-promise-of-more-war-in-syria-gets-warm-reception-from-corporate-media
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Dark Money, Not Russia, Best Explains Trump’s Win

*Not Russia doings, but a rush of dark dollars from home

http://www.accuracy.org/release/dark-money-not-russia-best-explains-trumps-win
—

Democracy Now!
With Larry Nassar Sentenced for Sexual Abuse of 160 Female Athletes, Many Now Ask: Who Else Knew?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/29/with_larry_nassar_sentenced_for_sexual

“Are You a U.S. Citizen?”: Trump Could Sabotage the 2020 Census by Adding Controversial Question

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/29/are_you_a_us_citizen_trump

“We’re Living in a Rigged System”: Ari Berman Says GOP Uses Gerrymandering to Stay in Power

*Rigged by Republicans

Regularized by Democrats

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/29/were_living_in_a_rigged_system
—

Are You Eating These 8 Nutrients That Block Cancer Metastasis?
by Dr. David Jockers

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/nutrients-block-cancer-metastasis

Perchlorate and the thyroid
Perchlorate is almost impossible to avoid, but you may be able to diminish its impact on the thyroid
by Caitlin Dow

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/food-safety/perchlorate-and-the-thyroid

1.26

Sparking Far-Reaching Rights Concerns, ICE Now Has Powerful Ability to Track License Plates Nationwide
Development fuels concerns about possible civil liberties violations
by Andrea Germanos, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/26/sparking-far-reaching-rights-concerns-ice-now-has-powerful-ability-track-license

World’s Oceans Last Year Hit Hottest Temperatures Ever Recorded… ‘By Far’
Experts say the data indicates that humans must urgently “reduce the heating of our planet by using energy more wisely and increasing the use of clean and renewable energy”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/26/worlds-oceans-last-year-hit-hottest-temperatures-ever-recorded-far
—

Florida Officials Deny Operation Push Is Ongoing, Even as they Retaliate Against Prisoners
by Brian Sonenstein

https://shadowproof.com/2018/01/25/operation-push-update
–

Judge Rosemarie Aquilina’s Real Message
Aquilina’s outspoken approach to Nassar’s sentencing is a signal from the bench that these crimes are serious and more abundant than many of us perhaps thought, and that they deserve the sustained attention of the courts and the public
by Elizabeth Bruenig

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/26/judge-rosemarie-aquilinas-real-message
—

Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law Files New Lawsuit Against Trump Administration For Concealing Its Actions to Engage DOJ and DHS in Work of Commission on Election Integrity
Latest Lawsuit Against DOJ, DHS Comes After Months Of Stonewalling By The Administration In Response To Requests For Information About The Commission

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/01/26/lawyers-committee-civil-rights-under-law-files-new-lawsuit-against-trump
—

The Real News Network
DOJ Lends a Hand in Prosecuting Lula
The “kangaroo court” upheld former Brazilian President Lula’s conviction without an iota of evidence, says journalist Brian Mier

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20983:DOJ-Lends-a-Hand-in-Prosecuting-Lula

Centrist Democrats Are Undermining Progressive Candidates
According to a major new report, the Democratic Party leadership is undermining progressive candidates and backing wealthier, centrist hopefuls that are following a failed strategy. We speak to The Intercept’s Lee Fang

*If you’re determined to lie down with dogs

You shouldn’t be surprised that you’re going to get fleeced

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20988:Centrist-Democrats-Are-Undermining-Progressive-Candidates

Trump Admin. Says China and Russia Are Top US National Security ‘Threats,’ Not Terrorism
The US government is moving away from “war on terror” rhetoric as Defense Secretary Mattis says “great power competition, not terrorism, is now the primary focus of US national security”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20992:Trump-Admin.-Says-China-and-Russia-Are-Top-US-National-Security-%27Threats%2C%27-Not-Terrorism

‘Bomb Train’: Oil Execs Try to Blame Workers for Tragic Accident
All three MMA rail workers were acquitted of criminal charges in the Lac-Megantic disaster case, but Fritz Edler, veteran locomotive engineer and longtime union officer, says “the wrong people were on trial,” and that the industry ignores known risks

*Railroading justice

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20976:Bomb-Train%27%3A-Oil-Execs-Try-to-Blame-Workers-for-Tragic-Accident
—

FAIR
‘There Has Been Absolutely No Movement on Guantánamo at All’
CounterSpin interview with Pardiss Kebriaei on Guantanamo challenge
by Janine Jackson

https://fair.org/home/there-has-been-absolutely-no-movement-on-guantanamo-at-all

1.25

Democrats Who Approved ‘Greedy Big Pharma CEO’ for HHS Secretary Should Be Ashamed: Critics
“Shame on every Senator who voted to put pharma exec Alex Azar, who has a long history of putting profits over people, in charge of regulating the health care industry”
by Jon Queally, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Doug Jones is not Roy Moore

He only voted like him

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/25/democrats-who-approved-greedy-big-pharma-ceo-hhs-secretary-should-be-ashamed-critics
—

Burger King Loves Net Neutrality (?!) and Other Whoppers
Burger King just made an ad about Net Neutrality
by Craig Aaron

*Yes, please … let’s celebrate the sociopolitical savvy of a corporation that exploits its workers and poisons the health of its customers with its products.

Talk about silos

Oy gevalt.

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/25/burger-king-loves-net-neutrality-and-other-whoppers
—

Economic Policy Institute
Biggest Gains in Union Membership in 2017 Were For Younger Workers

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/01/25/biggest-gains-union-membership-2017-were-younger-workers

Center for Food Safety
Hundreds of Groups Call on Congress to Protect Endangered Species from Pesticides

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/01/25/hundreds-groups-call-congress-protect-endangered-species-pesticides

U.S. PIRG
In Fight For More Affordable Education, Look To Core Classes

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/01/25/fight-more-affordable-education-look-core-classes
—

The Real News Network
Falsely Accused Terrorism Suspect Released After 10-Year Ordeal
Sociology professor Hassan Diab, who was accused of a terrorist attack in Paris over ten years ago, and who Canada extradited to France three years ago, was just released. Diab talks to TRNN about his ordeal in one of his first interviews upon his return

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20984:Falsely-Accused-Terrorism-Suspect-Released-After-10-Year-Ordeal

Protest Against UK Complicity In “Genocidal Fascist Invasion” of Northern Syria
Mohamed Elmaazi speaks to demonstrators gathered across the street from the Prime Minister’s house of residence at No 10 Downing Street, to protest her government’s complicity in Turkey’s invasion of Northern Syria and attacks on Kurds in the Afrin District, with the intent of carving out a 30 kilometre Kurdish free zone inside Syria

*I think we have to be careful about painting this enclave as the emergence of “a socialist grassroots democracy”, given their alliance with its antithesis in the US, but that doesn’t invalidate the condemnation of Turkish aggression, does it?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20981:Protest-Against-UK-Complicity-In-%22Genocidal-Fascist-Invasion%22-of-Northern-Syria

Britain’s Wall in France to Stop Refugees
UK to pay France for securing the border

*A European union of inhumanity

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20970:Britain%27s-Wall-in-France-to-Stop-Refugees

US Bipartisan Support for Israel over Palestinians Is Breaking Down, New Study Shows
Pew polling reveals Israel has become a right-wing issue, with 79% of Republicans supporting it compared to just 27% of Democrats

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20982:US-Bipartisan-Support-for-Israel-over-Palestinians-Is-Breaking-Down%2C-New-Study-Shows

Puerto Rico’s New Power Struggle: Privatization
Four months after Hurricane Maria and with close to half of its residents still without power, Puerto Rico has announced it will privatize its debt-ridden public electric utility, PREPA. We speak to Petra Bartosiewicz of Harper’s Magazine

*Pirates of the Caribbean

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20974:Puerto-Rico%27s-New-Power-Struggle%3A-Privatization

1.24

‘AT&T Hypocrisy Knows No Bounds’: Net Neutrality Defenders Call Out Telecom Giant for Fake Fix
Consumer advocates say telecom giant is pushing a terrible—and terribly cynical—legislative fix that would serve their bottom line, not their customers or Internet users more broadly
by Jon Queally, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/24/att-hypocrisy-knows-no-bounds-net-neutrality-defenders-call-out-telecom-giant-fake
—

Is a Nondisclosure Agreement Silencing You From Sharing Your ‘Me Too’ Story? 4 Reasons It Might Be Illegal
Survivors who want to speak out should know their legal options
by Emma J Roth

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/24/nondisclosure-agreement-silencing-you-sharing-your-me-too-story-4-reasons-it-might
–

The New in the “New Middle East”
by Hanadi Loubani

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/739-hanadi-loubani/3459-the-new-in-the-qnew-middle-eastq
–

Towards an endgame?
by Vijay Prashad

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/132-more-blog-posts-from-vijay-prashad/3457-towards-an-endgame
—

The Real News Network
Will Trump Really Challenge World Economic Forum’s Neoliberal Agenda?
President Trump will attend the World Economic Forum in Davos, days after introducing significant tariffs on Asian imports. However, these tariffs and Trump’s overall economic agenda won’t challenge the world’s elite at Davos, says Prof. Leo Panitch

*The exploitocracy sees Corbyn, Sanders and their “movements” through the same lens as they viewed FDR and the New Deal – not as a real threat to their power, but as a brake on it, a “saving of capitalism from itself”.

Whereas they grudgingly acceded to that in the throes of the Great Depression, the last half century has seen a singular uptick in their arrogance, and they wish nothing more dearly than to do as they literally bloody well please, future be damned.

History repeating itself in whatever form of social democracy won’t arrest the headlong rush into the abyss in this here century of climate change and end stage capitalism.

If that’s all we can muster, then the future is indeed well and truly damned by their turpitude, and our timidity.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20967:Will-Trump-Really-Challenge-World-Economic-Forum%27s-Neoliberal-Agenda%3F

Do We Need Anarchists? Lessons from the Goddess of Anarchy
Jacqueline Jones discusses her new book on Lucy Parsons, a former slave who became one of the most influential anarchists in the U.S. labor movement

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20939:Do-We-Need-Anarchists%3F-Lessons-from-the-Goddess-of-Anarchy
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Kozol: Inequality, “Virtually Total Segregation” in Schools Breeding Rage

http://www.accuracy.org/release/kozol-inequality-virtually-total-segregation-in-schools-breeding-rage
—

Democracy Now!
Fantasy Novelist Ursula Le Guin, Who Explored Resistance & Change, Dies at Age 88

*True art is always for our sake

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/24/fantasy_novelist_ursula_le_guin_who

“Strong Island”: Trans Filmmaker Yance Ford Searches for Justice After His Brother’s Racist Murder

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/24/strong_island_trans_filmmaker_yance_ford

Alabama’s Hale County is Subject of Poetic Documentary on Blackness and Everyday Life in the Black Belt

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/24/alabamas_hale_county_is_subject_of
—

Radiation Detox: How to Rebuild Your Health after Radiation Therapy
by Dr. Veronique Desaulniers

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/radiation-detox

Kitchen gadgets that can help you avoid food poisoning
by Leah Ettman
Nutrition Action

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/food-safety/kitchen-gadgets-that-can-help-you-avoid-food-poisoning

1.23

Month After Getting $3.5 Billion Tax Break From Trump, Bank of America Hikes Fees on Poorest Customers
Online checking accounts, popular with low-income customers, may now be off-limits to many who can’t afford new fees
by Julia Conley, staff writer

*Direct deposit

Into execs’ pockets

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/23/month-after-getting-35-billion-tax-break-trump-bank-america-hikes-fees-poorest
—

Feminism Will Not Be Weaponized for Trump’s War on Immigrants
We know that violence against women occurs in every country, class and culture. The White House is using this issue, in a racialized context, to close the door on immigrants.
by Yifat Susskind

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/23/feminism-will-not-be-weaponized-trumps-war-immigrants
–

Inside the Trump Administration’s War on UNRWA and Palestinian Refugees
A diplomatic insider describes attempts by Jared Kushner and Nikki Haley to destroy a UN agency that supports millions of Palestinians
by Max Blumenthal

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20963:Inside-the-Trump-Administration%27s-War-on-UNRWA-and-Palestinian-Refugees
–

Locked-Up for Reading: Young Leftists in China Speak Out
by Chuang, Zhang Yunfan and Sun Tingting

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/736-chuang-zhang-yunfan-and-sun-tingting/3452-locked-up-for-reading-young-leftists-in-china-speak-out
–

Iran: Protests and threat of renewed sanctions focus economic thinking
by James M. Dorsey

*So the choice is between domestic public corruption and foreign private rapacity?

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3455-iran-protests-and-threat-of-renewed-sanctions-focus-economic-thinking
—

Food & Water Watch
Toxic Oilfield Wastewater Used to Grow California Food, Including Organics
Food & Water Watch Launches Campaign to Stop the Practice; New Video Captures Reactions Outside of Whole Foods Headquarters in Austin

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/01/23/toxic-oilfield-wastewater-used-grow-california-food-including-organics
—

The Real News Network
Turkish Attack on Kurds Opens New Front, and Alignments, in Syrian War
Just as the Syrian war has been winding down in key areas, Turkey has opened a new front with an attack on U.S.-backed Kurdish forces in Afrin. Syrian-American writer Ehsani joins us to discuss the offensive and the shifting alliances in Syria’s 7-year war

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20962:Turkish-Attack-on-Kurds-Opens-New-Front%2C-and-Alignments%2C-in-Syrian-War

Pence Speech Fuels Conflict Between Israel and Palestine
Pence’s speech to the Knesset praised Israel’s democracy while Palestinian members of parliament were forcibly removed for expressing their views, says TRNN correspondent Shir Hever

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20957:Pence-Speech-Fuels-Conflict-Between-Israel-and-Palestine

Despite School Closings, Chicago Mayor Pushes For New $95 Million Police Academy
More than 50 Chicago community organizations have endorsed the #NoCopAcademy campaign as activists rally to stop the project and invest the funds back into the community
by Michael Sainato

*Bupkes from ‘Bama’s buddy

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20956:Despite-School-Closings%2C-Chicago-Mayor-Pushes-For-New-%2495-Million-Police-Academy
—

Democracy Now!
DuPont vs. the World: Chemical Giant Covered Up Health Risks of Teflon Contamination Across Globe

*This is always the end result of the profit motive. An insidious addiction to wealth and power are what drives a system based on it

And exploitation, oppression, injury and death are its dismal products.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/23/dupont_vs_the_world_chemical_giant

A Warning from the Center of the World: Pacific Nation Kiribati Is Disappearing as Sea Level Rises

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/23/a_warning_from_the_center_of

1.22

At Berlin March, Tens of Thousands Demand End to Industrial Agriculture
“Farmers and consumers from all over Europe have made it clear that they are fed up with current policies that benefit huge food and agriculture corporations, at the expense of the environment, peasant farming, and public safety,” said Adrian Bebb, Friends of the Earth Europe
by Andrea Germanos, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/22/berlin-march-tens-thousands-demand-end-industrial-agriculture
—

The Untold Story of the Roe v. Wade Anniversary
What’s different about the Roe anniversary this year is the newly proactive abortion rights movement
by Gloria Totten

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/22/untold-story-roe-v-wade-anniversary
–

Trump’s Infrastructure Plan Is Actually Pence’s – And It’s All About Privatization
by Lydia O’Neal and David Sirota

*The road to riches

And we pay the toll

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/735-lydia-oneal-and-david-sirota/3451-trumps-infrastructure-plan-is-actually-pences-and-its-all-about-privatization
–

Environmental Activist Sued for Libel Over Facebook Comment About Oil and Gas Company
by Simon Davis-Cohen

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/734-simon-davis-cohen/3450-environmental-activist-sued-for-libel-over-facebook-comment-about-oil-and-gas-company
–

The Kids the World Forgot
Kabul’s estimated 50,000 “street kids” dot the city’s already clogged roads selling balloons or lugging scales on which passers-by are invited to weigh themselves, working to helps their parents buy food for their families
by Ken Hannaford-Ricardi

*$53,400

How much is a drone mission?

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/21/kids-world-forgot
—

The Real News Network
Baltimore Spends Billions on Corporate Subsidies but Can’t Heat Its Schools
Author and political scientist Lester Spence says the discussion around Baltimore’s flagging school system ignores the fundamental priorities of a city that favors corporations over its children

*Getting your priorities straight

From the top

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20951:Baltimore-Spends-Billions-on-Corporate-Subsidies-but-Can%27t-Heat-Its-Schools

Consumer Protection Moves to Throw the Weakest Under the Bus
In one of his first moves as director of the Consumer Financial Protection Board, Mick Mulvaney scrapped a rule regulating payday lenders. “This has everything to do with facilitating fraud and predation,” says white-collar criminologist Bill Black

*Greasing the sleaze

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20937:Consumer-Protection-Moves-to-Throw-the-Weakest-Under-the-Bus

Apple: The Biggest Tax Cheaters in History Repatriate Profits Under Trump’s Tax Bill
What Apple did was outright illegal according to the European Union, but instead of taking legal action against Apple for tax evasion, the Trump tax bill will reward them, says white-collar criminologist Bill Black

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20936:Apple%3A-The-Biggest-Tax-Cheaters-in-History-Repatriate-Profits-Under-Trump%27s-Tax-Bill

Massive Oil Spill in East China Sea Is the Size of Paris
In one of the worst oil shipping disasters in decades, a tanker carrying $60 million of Iranian oil collided with a Chinese cargo ship. We speak with marine biologist David Santillo about the possible effects on marine ecosystems

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20944:Massive-Oil-Spill-in-East-China-Sea-Is-the-Size-of-Paris

Real Media: Former British Diplomat Turned Anarchist
Carne Ross resigned from the UK foreign office over the Iraq war, and has since been on a journey that has led him to believe in anarchism. Here he talks about his journey, the trigger, and the problems with top down society

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20927:Real-Media%3A-Former-British-Diplomat-Turned-Anarchist

Korean Olympic Unity Gives US War Plans a ‘Bloody Nose’
North and South Korea will march together at the upcoming Winter Olympics, raising hopes of de-escalation. This, amid talk of a new U.S. strategy dubbed “Bloody Nose” and a U.S.-led summit promoting other aggressive steps. Christine Ahn, who organized a counter-summit of women peace activists, explains

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20940:Korean-Olympic-Unity-Gives-US-War-Plans-a-%27Bloody-Nose%27

P3 Corporate Collapse Highlights Risks of Privatization
by Canadian Union of Public Employees

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/733-canadian-union-of-public-employees/3449-p3-corporate-collapse-highlights-risks-of-privatization

Trump Keeps US in Syria and Sets Off New War
Just days after the announcement of a U.S.-backed Kurdish “border force” and an indefinite U.S. military presence in Syria, Turkey is shelling Kurdish areas and threatening a ground assault. We speak to Max Blumenthal and Ben Norton about what the Trump administration’s renewed commitment to both regime change and confronting Iran means for Syria.

*The Syrian people are being brutalized and murdered by all sides in this horror show, and that needs to be given prominence in every discussion of it. We can be as condemnatory of US, Saudi et elia’s actions as we wish – and should – without also casting Assad, Russia and Iran as somehow valiant defenders of the populace.

There are contradictions upon contradictions in this hell, but what should be crystal clear is that all hands are awash in Syrian blood, and any proposal for a just solution will have to acknowledge that fearsome fact, if we truly care about one.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20938:Trump-Keeps-US-in-Syria-and-Sets-Off-New-War

Set Up By FBI Informant, NODAPL Activist Pleads Guilty
After federal government has stonewalled defense attorneys in releasing evidence, Red Fawn Fallis came to a plea agreement with prosecutors
by Michael Sainato

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20950:Set-Up-By-FBI-Informant%2C-NODAPL-Activist-Pleads-Guilty
—

The Best Breast Cancer Screening Options for Women (Hint: it’s Not Mammograms!)
by Dr. Veronique Desaulniers

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/breast-cancer-screening

1.19

In Name of Transparency, Not Partisan Sniping, Snowden Backs Call to #ReleaseTheMemo
“If true, the citizens must see the proof,” says NSA whistleblower. “If false, it establishes [GOP chairman of House Intelligence Committee] lies and has no credibility. Either outcome benefits the public.”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/19/name-transparency-not-partisan-sniping-snowden-backs-call-releasethememo
—

Republicans Have Four Easy Ways to #ReleasetheMemo — and the Evidence For it. Not Doing So Will Prove Them to Be Shameless Frauds.
If this is “worse than Watergate” — Republicans obviously have every incentive to get it into the public’s hands as soon as possible. Indeed, one could argue that they have the duty to do so.
by Glenn Greenwald and Jon Schwarz

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/19/republicans-have-four-easy-ways-releasethememo-and-evidence-it-not-doing-so-will
–

What Spielberg’s The Post — and Our Textbooks — Leave Out
Sadly, too many textbooks found in the nation’s school hide pretty much everything that is important in the world — from the roots of American racism, to the war against Mexico; and from the causes and consequences of climate change, to, yes, the nature of the Vietnam War
by Bill Bigelow

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/19/what-spielbergs-post-and-our-textbooks-leave-out
–

‘Grace’s’ Story About Aziz Ansari Has Lessons for Men and Women
Grace’s story sparked a rift between those wanting #MeToo to remain squarely focused on ending legally defined harassment and assault, and those who want so much more
by Sonali Kolhatkar

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/19/graces-story-about-aziz-ansari-has-lessons-men-and-women
–

Trump Fills The Swamp To Exploit College Students
The Trump administration is imposing dire consequences on both students and taxpayers
by Jeff Bryant

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/19/trump-fills-swamp-exploit-college-students
–

The US is Arming and Assisting Neo-Nazis in Ukraine, While Congress Debates Prohibition
Known as a bastion of neo-Nazism, the Azov Battalion has received teams of American military advisors and high powered US-made weapons
by Max Blumenthal

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20942:The-US-is-Arming-and-Assisting-Neo-Nazis-in-Ukraine%2C-While-Congress-Debates-Prohibition
—

Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR)
Men Rounded Up in Post-9/11 Sweeps Push Suit Against Warden For Physical, Verbal, Religious Abuse

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/01/19/men-rounded-post-911-sweeps-push-suit-against-warden-physical-verbal-religious
—

The Real News Network
Baltimore Mayor Fires Police Commissioner Kevin Davis
Mayor Catherine Pugh announced that Davis had been replaced Friday morning, following months of scandal and speculation
by Brandon Soderberg

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20943:Baltimore-Mayor-Fires-Police-Commissioner-Kevin-Davis

Prosecutors Push on Against 59 Protesters Despite Defeat
The U.S. Attorney’s Office dropped charges against 129 defendants Thursday but continues to prosecute journalists and others who have spoken to the press
by Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20945:Prosecutors-Push-on-Against-59-Protesters-Despite-Defeat

Cape Town Water Wars: A Literal Shitstorm
In Cape Town, one of the most unequal cities in the world, poor people are taking the buckets they use for chemical toilets and turning them into weapons, as the water shortage intensifies class conflicts

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20921:Cape-Town-Water-Wars%3A-A-Literal-Shitstorm

Yemen’s Crisis is Far Worse Than We’re Told
UNICEF says the war in Yemen is killing or wounding five children every single day, but Shireen Al-Adeimi says the figure drastically undercounts the real toll of the Saudi-led, U.S.-backed bombing and blockade

*There’s never “gridlock” when it comes to opening the door for death and destruction in the name of “national security”, is there?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20931:Yemen%27s-Crisis-is-Far-Worse-Than-We%27re-Told

IRS Private Debt-Collection Program is ‘Indefensible’
Using private debt-collection firms to collect debt from low-income Americans is not only morally reprehensible, but it’s also terrible business, says white-collar criminologist Bill Black

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20925:IRS-Private-Debt-Collection-Program-is-%27Indefensible%27
—

FAIR
‘A Marijuana-Related Charge Can Still Impact Somebody for Life’
CounterSpin Interview with Art Way on pot recriminalization
by Janine Jackson

https://fair.org/home/a-marijuana-related-charge-can-still-impact-somebody-for-life
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Is Amazon Ripping Off Taxpayers?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/63913

Women’s March and Mexican Indigenous Activists in U.S.

http://www.accuracy.org/release/63903

1.18

Amazon Short-List Proves Something “Deeply Wrong” With America’s Race-to-the-Bottom Economy: Ellison
“Something is deeply wrong with our economy and democracy when local governments offer up their tax base to a corporation worth over $500 billion”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Serving a rotten Apple a silver platter

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/18/amazon-short-list-proves-something-deeply-wrong-americas-race-bottom-economy-ellison
—

Apple Polishing: The Tech Giant’s Devious Attempt to Support Trump’s Tax-Cut Fantasies
The company’s real goal here is to obscure the fact that the new law is a massive giveaway to huge multinational corporations like Apple
by Will Rice

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/18/apple-polishing-tech-giants-devious-attempt-support-trumps-tax-cut-fantasies
—

Indigenous Environment Network
TransCanada’s Announcement about “Commercial Support” for the Keystone XL Pipeline is Not A Significant Win or Development

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/01/18/transcanadas-announcement-about-commercial-support-keystone-xl-pipeline-not
—

The Real News Network
New Orleans Human Rights Resolution Retracted Because It Could Affect Israel
The resolution did not even mention Israel, but pro-Israel pushback has council members backtracking on past support for Palestinian human rights
by Ben Norton

*The city that forgot to care

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20933:New-Orleans-Human-Rights-Resolution-Retracted-Because-It-Could-Affect-Israel

The Grenfell Community’s Silent Steps for Justice
On the seven-month anniversary of Grenfell Tower fire in London, the local community hold their monthly Silent Walk and share their thoughts on how they are coping and the wider reasons for the tragedy

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20932:The-Grenfell-Community%27s-Silent-Steps-for-Justice

Abbas Gives Up on US, but Palestinians Give Up on Him
Palestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas is publicly distancing himself from the US, but that won’t be enough to save face with a Palestinian population fed up with his failed leadership, says former PLO legal adviser Diana Buttu

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20924:Abbas-Gives-Up-on-US%2C-but-Palestinians-Give-Up-on-Him

Catalonia Independence Crisis Intensifies Spain’s Political Divide
Political parties in Spain are struggling to navigate an increasingly polarized political landscape, says Professor Sebastiaan Faber of Oberlin College

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20922:Catalonia-Independence-Crisis-Intensifies-Spain%27s-Political-Divide

Repression Against Honduran Opposition Intensifies
Over 200 demonstrators were injured in last week’s demonstrations against the incumbent president, whose reelection lacks legitimacy according to the opposition and international observers. The opposition is now gearing up for a national strike in the lead-up to the inauguration, explains Heather Gies, reporting from Honduras

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20923:Repression-Against-Honduran-Opposition-Intensifies

The Jobs Trump Promised to Save Are Disappearing
The Carrier factory in Indiana is laying off hundreds of workers this week, one year after Trump promised to save them
by Michael Sainato

*”Jobs” … “jobbed” …

Semantics

Fake news!

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20928:The-Jobs-Trump-Promised-to-Save-Are-Disappearing
—

FAIR
‘When Women Have a Union, You Don’t Have to Walk In Alone’
CounterSpin interview with Jane McAlevey on #MeToo and Labor
by Janine Jackson

https://fair.org/home/when-women-have-a-union-you-dont-have-to-walk-in-alone

1.17

Trump’s Gift for the Unemployed: Kicking Them Off Health Care
Imagine telling a laid off employee they won’t have Medicaid to fall back on
by LeeAnn Hall

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/17/trumps-gift-unemployed-kicking-them-health-care
—

Violence Policy Center
U.S. Gun Death Rate Jumps 17 Percent Since 2008 Supreme Court District of Columbia v. Heller Decision Affirming Right to Own a Handgun for Self-Defense

*No safety in these numbers

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/01/17/us-gun-death-rate-jumps-17-percent-2008-supreme-court-district-columbia-v-heller
—

The Real News Network
#TheAssistance: Democrats Hand Trump Warrantless Spying
Fifty-five House Democrats, including #Resistance stalwarts, have joined Republicans to give Trump’s NSA broad warrantless surveillance powers. The Senate is likely to follow. We speak to Trevor Timm of the Freedom of the Press Foundation.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20917:%23TheAssistance%3A-Democrats-Hand-Trump-Warrantless-Spying

Targeting Undocumented Leaders, Trump Deportation Regime Escalates
As President Trump throws an immigration deal into limbo, federal agents are ramping up deportation efforts coast to coast. We are joined by prominent activist Maru Mora Villalpando of Seattle, who is being targeted for deportation; and by independent journalist Renee Feltz, who has been covering the deportation efforts against Ravi Ragbir and Jean Montrevil

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20919:Targeting-Undocumented-Leaders%2C-Trump-Deportation-Regime-Escalates
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
How to Reduce Threat of Nuclear War with North Korea

http://www.accuracy.org/release/how-to-reduce-threat-of-nuclear-war-with-north-korea-2

Trump and Right “Hijacking” Religious Freedom

*Holy rollers over our rights

http://www.accuracy.org/release/63739
—

FAIR
Slapping an Israeli Soldier More Newsworthy Than Shooting a Palestinian Child in the Face
Coverage of Ahed Tamimi obscures Israeli violence and occupation
by Gregory Shupak

https://fair.org/home/slapping-an-israeli-soldier-more-newsworthy-than-shooting-a-palestinian-child-in-the-face

Judging WaPo’s MLK Quotes by the Content of Their 280 Characters
Remembering a watered-down, wall calendar version of King
by Adam Johnson

*A pedestal within a prison

https://fair.org/home/judging-wapos-mlk-quotes-by-the-content-of-their-280-characters
—

Nutrition Action
Why it may be worth identifying what caused your food poisoning

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/food-safety/why-it-may-be-worth-identifying-what-caused-your-food-poisoning

The Healthiest Way to Eat Fried Food (video)
by Dr. David Jockers

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/healthiest-way-fried-food-video

1.16

Amid Relentless Trump-GOP Attack on Healthcare System, 3 Million People Lost Insurance in 2017
Low-income households were among those whose coverage rates fell furthest last year
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Is there anything that makes clearer how fucked up Obamacare (née Romneycare) is than that we have to be forced to have it?

No one forces us to exercise a right to healthcare (not “coverage”, but care), as folks with that right around the world will attest.

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/16/amid-relentless-trump-gop-attack-healthcare-system-3-million-people-lost-insurance
—

Democrats’ Bewildering Decision to Hand President Trump More Surveillance Powers
Even the prospect of being blackmailed by the racist-in-chief can’t crack their instinctive love of sweeping powers for secret spies
by Ryan Cooper

*If Dear Misleader has a “wretched civil liberties legacy” (and he assuredly does)

They why the deuce is Dems’ duplicity either “bewildering” or “incomprehensible”?

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/16/democrats-bewildering-decision-hand-president-trump-more-surveillance-powers
–

Justice for Hassan Diab and the Unbearable Banality of Evil
by Judith Deutsch

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/590–judith-deutsch/3444-justice-for-hassan-diab-and-the-unbearable-banality-of-evil
–

Sovereign wealth funds: Investment vehicles or political operators?
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3443-sovereign-wealth-funds-investment-vehicles-or-political-operators
—

The Real News Network
UN Mission Helped Plan Haitian Raid that Ended in Civilian Massacre
A UN-backed anti-gang operation in the Grand Ravine area of Port-au-Prince ended in the summary execution of civilians on a school campus — but the killings have been largely ignored

*Blue helmets

Black hearts

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20914:UN-Mission-Helped-Plan-Haitian-Raid-that-Ended-in-Civilian-Massacre

A Trillion for the Military but No Money for Freezing Schools
A trillion for the military but no money for freezing schools – “3% of US military spending could end starvation on earth,” reads a billboard in downtown Baltimore. It’s part of a conference here in Baltimore that was live streamed at TRNN.com

*Two parties

No waiting

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20907:A-Trillion-for-the-Military-but-No-Money-for-Freezing-Schools

Fire and Fury: The Extreme-Right in the White House (2/2)
The extreme right has a solid hold on the White House for the first time in decades and replacing Trump with another Clinton-type Democrat will only reinforce the forces that got Trump elected

*Since FDR, the purpose of the Democratic Party has been to be “the good cop”, to offer a safe (for the exploitocracy) alternative when capitalism defeats its own purposes, which is an inherent feature of the system, and divert any transformative challenge to it.

In the present, I think they’ve given up on keeping capitalism on track, and are only managing its demise, as it’s become clear that its blind rapacity has taken us to the brink, and they lack the political will to pull it back, even at the cost of their own lives.

It’s a theory …

As for finding “someone” to challenge His Travesty, maybe we should focus on principle rather than personality. A candidate should be a reflection of what their party stands for, and not a separate entity based on celebritic attributes.

The Democratic Party can never be such, and decades have been wasted in the effort to make it so.

Can we finally suss that we’re gonna have to piss

Or get flushed down the pot?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20908:Fire-and-Fury%3A-The-Extreme-Right-in-the-White-House-%28Pt.-22%29

Why is Trump Targeting Palestinian Refugees?
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has welcomed US threats to the funding of UNRWA, the UN agency that delivers vital services to millions of Palestinian refugees. We speak to Yara Hawari of Al Shabaka – the Palestinian Policy Network

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20868:Why-is-Trump-Targeting-Palestinian-Refugees%3F

Public or Private Ownership of Banks: Which is More Efficient?
Devika Dutt of PERI explains the gap between common economic thinking, which favors private ownership of banks, and the data

*If currency (money) is a feature of an economic system, then public banking is clearly preferable to private control

But what if money ain’t necessarily so?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20884:Public-or-Private-Ownership-of-Banks%3A-Which-is-More-Efficient%3F

‘I Felt Disgusted, I Felt Like I Had to do This to Keep My Home’
Victim of Sex for Repairs Scandal in Baltimore Public Housing Comes Forward to Tell Her Story
by Taya Graham and Stephen Janis

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20912:%27I-Felt-Disgusted%2C-I-Felt-Like-I-Had-to-do-This-to-Keep-My-Home%27

1.15

U.S. Politicians and Public Criticized for ‘Whitewashing’ King’s Legacy
“MLK is celebrated only by ignoring and deleting his core beliefs: that real social progress was impossible without ending imperialism, militarism, and economic inequality”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Damning with fulsome praise

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/15/us-politicians-and-public-criticized-whitewashing-kings-legacy
–

Golf, But No Public Service for Trump on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
“While the people celebrate #MLKDay and all that Dr. King stood for, our “leader” will be celebrating himself. Let that sink in.”
by Jon Queally, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Would you rather him engage in some PR exercise that would define “hypocrisy”?

The greatest public service he could do would be to resign.

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/15/golf-no-public-service-trump-martin-luther-king-jr-day
–

Inmates Launch Month-Long Strike to Protest ‘Slavery Conditions’ in Florida Prisons
Florida is one of five states that don’t pay prison inmates for the work they complete while incarcerated
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/15/inmates-launch-month-long-strike-protest-slavery-conditions-florida-prisons
–

Will Ajit Pai’s FCC Probe into Hawaii False Alarm Expose Role Telecom Giants Played in Blocking Emergency System Upgrades?
Pai’s claim that lack of “safeguards” is responsible for the false alert comes as he is working to dismantle rules safeguarding the internet from corporate manipulation
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/15/will-ajit-pais-fcc-probe-hawaii-false-alarm-expose-role-telecom-giants-played
—

You Don’t Need a Telescope to Find a ‘Shithole Country’
This shithole country, which saw the world in black and white, communist and capitalist, was determined to thwart the aspirations of the poor and the landless in El Salvador
by Chris Hedges

*American excrementalism

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/15/you-dont-need-telescope-find-shithole-country
–

The Last Oil: Gathering to Resist Trump’s Reckless Arctic Energy Policy
Instead of reducing extraction of fossil fuels to stabilize the global climate as science mandates, the Trump administration has launched a war on environmental conservation and indigenous human rights
by Subhankar Banerjee

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/15/last-oil-gathering-resist-trumps-reckless-arctic-energy-policy
–

Solidarity from Central Cellblock to Guantanamo
These evils, small or large, are all growing from the same roots of imperial arrogance
by Brian Terrell

*Conscience is a crime to those who crave control

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/15/solidarity-central-cellblock-guantanamo
—

The Real News Network
Fire and Fury: Insights into the Fights Within the US Ruling Elite? (1/2)
The bestseller Fire and Fury not only confirms the worst we suspected about the Trump White House, but it also puts the fights within the US ruling elite on display. Doug Henwood analyses the book

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20895:Fire-and-Fury%3A-Insights-into-the-Fights-Within-the-US-Ruling-Elite%3F-%2812%29

How Will the Mayor’s ‘Safe Art Space’ Task Force Affect Baltimore’s Black Artists?
Baltimore Mayor Catherine Pugh’s task force, formed last December, hopes to revive an old Black arts and entertainment district

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20866:How-Will-the-Mayor%27s-%27Safe-Art-Space%27-Task-Force-Affect-Baltimore%27s-Black-Artists%3F

Democrats Openly Back Establishment Candidates for 2018 Primaries
The DCCC is already deciding primary races in favor of the candidates they prefer
by Michael Sainato

*Fighting for the “soul” of a putrid party is a waste of precious time.

Does anyone truly suss “the fierce urgency of now”?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20910:Democrats-Openly-Back-Establishment-Candidates-for-2018-Primaries

Global Warming Will Increase Risks of Desertification
A new study shows that a global temperature increase of more than 1.5 degrees Celsius will mean that dry air will increase significantly, which can intensify desertification and crop failures. We speak with Prof. Manoj Joshi, one of the study’s authors

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20902:Global-Warming-Will-Increase-Risks-of-Desertification

From Haiti to Africa, US Owes More Than a Trump Apology
Donald Trump’s racist “shithole” comments offer the US a new opportunity to reckon with its longtime destabilization and plunder of the countries he insulted, says Haitian writer Jean Saint-Vil

*The whole shit from the start

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20901:From-Haiti-to-Africa%2C-US-Owes-More-Than-a-Trump-Apology

Activists Who Protested UK’s Biggest Arms Fair Found Guilty
Andrew Smith of the Campaign Against Arms Trade talks about the verdicts, the reasons for protesting arms fairs, and the impact of activism

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=20897%27%20style=%27color:#000;

Senate Bill to Reverse FCC’s Net Neutrality Repeal Gains Traction
As awareness of net neutrality gets more public attention, a Senate resolution that reverses the FCC’s net neutrality repeal has 45 supporters, but major obstacles remain. The fight to reinstate net neutrality is also taking place in states and courthouses. Craig Aaron of Free Press has more

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20893:Senate-Bill-to-Reverse-FCC%27s-Net-Neutrality-Repeal-Gains-Traction

Paramilitary Forces Threaten to Derail Colombia’s Peace Agreement
The peace agreement commits the Colombian government to dismantling paramilitary groups, but authorities aren’t taking action, Tom Power reports from Colombia

*To hold any hope that any US administration will do anything other than collude with the forces of repression in Columbia, given the long history of doing just that, is dangerously naïve, don’t you think?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20886:Paramilitary-Forces-Threaten-to-Derail-Colombia%27s-Peace-Agreement

1.12

Calling Out Trump Denial, Durbin Confirms President Said ‘Those Hate-Filled’ Words ‘Repeatedly’
“To no surprise the president started tweeting this morning, denying that he used those words. It is not true,” said the Illinois senator
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*The AP deemed it a “brash” remark

And the Charlottesville murder was a “traffic accident”

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/12/calling-out-trump-denial-durbin-confirms-president-said-those-hate-filled-words

Viral Video of Hospital Dumping Woman Into Freezing Cold Stirs Demand for ‘Medicare for All’
“Attempted murder” is how one analyst described the medical center’s decision to leave an incapacitated young woman at a bus stop in frigid weather
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Contrition

For being caught

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/12/viral-video-hospital-dumping-woman-freezing-cold-stirs-demand-medicare-all
—

Media, Racism, and Global “Shitholes”
A reminder that the disgusting bigotry Trump leverages does not emerge from a vacuum
by Christian Christensen

*Trump isn’t an aberration

He’s an eventuality

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/12/media-racism-and-global-shitholes
–

Trump, “Shitholes,” and White Supremacy: Building Resistance on 8th Anniversary of the Haiti Earthquake my Family and I Survived.
With his analogy between Black people and feces, Trump has once again shown the world his commitment to wickedness, vulgarity, and racism
by Jesse Hagopian

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/12/trump-shitholes-and-white-supremacy-building-resistance-8th-anniversary-haiti
–

Farming for a Small Planet
How we grow food determines who can eat and who cannot—no matter how much we produce
by Frances Moore Lappé

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/12/farming-small-planet
—

The Real News Network
After Israel Decimated Gaza, Human Rights Defenders Failed It (4/4)
In his new book “Gaza: An Inquest into Its Martyrdom,” Norman Finkelstein argues that Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, the UN Human Rights Council, and other defenders of international law have succumbed to Israel’s pressure and whitewashed its crimes in the Gaza Strip

*Feet of clay

Stained with blood

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20896:After-Israel-Decimated-Gaza%2C-Human-Rights-Defenders-Failed-It-%2844%29

Iran Protests End, But Grievances Remain
As Iran’s protests wind down, Ali Fathollah-Nejad of the Brookings Doha Center says that class divides and an authoritarian political establishment pose major barriers to change

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20890:Iran-Protests-End%2C-But-Grievances-Remain

Bail Industry Allegedly Pays Bribes to Imprison the Poor
Allegations of bribes paid by bail lobbyists to state politicians are prompting activists to demand that Maryland legislators freeze out the industry from pushing anti-reform legislation in the upcoming session

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20898:Bail-Industry-Allegedly-Pays-Bribes-to-Imprison-the-Poor
—

Democracy Now!
NYC: Immigration Rights Activist Ravi Ragbir Detained at ICE Check-in Amid Protest, Police Violence

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/12/nyc_immigration_rights_activist_ravi_ragbir
—

Should I Get a Flu Shot? (and 9 Ways to Fight the Flu Naturally)
by Dr. David Jockers

*As with much of this alternative intel, use your best judgment.

I don’t get a shot, and I do take a number of the steps outlined instead.

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/should-i-get-a-flu-shot

1.11

Walmart Pulls ‘Diabolical’ and ‘Devious Two-Step’ By Pairing Wage Hikes With Mass Layoffs
“Politics at its most cynical” is how one analyst described Walmart’s attempt to claim wage hikes were a result of the GOP tax plan
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*A Big Box of lies from the Low Life Leader ™

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/11/walmart-pulls-diabolical-and-devious-two-step-pairing-wage-hikes-mass-layoffs

Dutch Reporters Offer Master Class By Refusing to Let Trump Official Tell ‘Blatant Lies’
“This is the Netherlands, you have to answer questions”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*I wouldn’t place the Dutch press on a pedestal

But this makes plain the need to knock our corpress off its

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/11/dutch-reporters-offer-master-class-refusing-let-trump-official-tell-blatant-lies

Trump Launches ‘Truly Savage’ Attack on Medicaid By Pushing Work Requirements
“This is just the latest in Trump and Republicans’ relentless assault on Medicaid and the broader set of federal programs people rely on. And it’s a sign that there is likely more to come.”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/11/trump-launches-truly-savage-attack-medicaid-pushing-work-requirements
—

FAIR
Coverage of Iran Protests Illustrated With Protests Not in Iran––Organized by Fringe Cultists
by Adam Johnson

https://fair.org/home/coverage-of-iran-protests-illustrated-with-protests-not-in-iran-organized-by-fringe-cultists
—

Democracy Now!
Trump Expands Offshore Drilling in “Assault” on Biodiversity and Coastal & Indigenous Communities

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/11/trump_expands_offshore_drilling_in_assault

As Erica Garner Is Mourned, Why Are Black Mothers in NYC Dying at 12 Times Rate of White Mothers?

*Will this become a cause célèbre for the “pro life” movement?

Is this a rhetorical question?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/11/as_erica_garner_is_mourned_why

Christen Smith: The Fallout of Police Violence Is Killing Black Women Like Erica Garner

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/11/christen_smith_the_fallout_of_police

Serena Williams Reveals Near-Deadly Birth Experience, Underscoring Growing Risks for Black Mothers

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/11/serena_williams_reveals_near_deadly_birth

1.10

The Real News Network
Finkelstein on Gaza’s Right to Resist Military Occupation (3/4)
In Part 3 of our interview on his new book “Gaza: An Inquest into Its Martyrdom,” Norman Finkelstein discusses the legality, and utility, of Hamas’ armed resistance to Israel’s occupation

*There are so many moral permutations to the use of force that there’s no way to write some sort of rulebook about it

But I believe we all have the right to defend ourselves and others by any means necessary, up to and including lethal force.

The question is how to define “necessary” in the context of “collateral damage”, when that force harms beyond the assailant. I feel there are situations, as Finkelstein lays out, where the calculation of what’s “indiscriminate” has to take into account the circumstances those being attacked find themselves in.

That’s a moral calculus. The political one of efficacy is no less vexing.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20883:Finkelstein-on-Gaza%27s-Right-to-Resist-Military-Occupation-%2834%29

How Palestine’s Tamimi Family Resists Israel’s Occupation
Israeli forces have killed three of its family members and arrested scores of others, including 16-year old Ahed, but the Tamimi family continues its non-violent struggle for Palestinian freedom. We speak to Manal Tamimi about her recent imprisonment and her family’s defiant activism

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20869:How-Palestine%27s-Tamimi-Family-Resists-Israel%27s-Occupation
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
U.S.-Backed Saudi Attack on Yemen: * Media Blackout * Public Opposition

*What these poll results fail to reflect is how easily many people will renounce them when confronted with the sort of fearmongering that followed 9/11.

A dedicated militarist is an ardent student of the art of manufacturing consent.

http://www.accuracy.org/release/63592
—

FAIR
In Trump Era, ‘Both Sides’ on Immigration Includes White Nationalists
by Adam Johnson

*The rancid stench of racism radiating from stink tanks

https://fair.org/home/in-trump-era-both-sides-on-immigration-includes-white-nationalists
—

Democracy Now!
As ICC Considers Probing Israel for War Crimes, U.S. Moves to Defund U.N. Palestine Refugee Agency

*Someone as forthright as Finkelstein appears on this program far too little, don’t you think?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/10/as_icc_considers_probing_israel_for

Finkelstein: Despite Racist Policies & Corruption Scandals, Netanyahu Holds on to Power in Israel

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/10/finkelstein_despite_racist_policies_corruption_scandals

Norman Finkelstein Slams Chuck Schumer for Pushing Trump to Declare Jerusalem Israel’s Capital

*A “#Resistance” to common humanity

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/10/norman_finkelstein_slams_chuck_schumer_for
—

Nutrition Action
Phthalates linked to lower fertility in men and women

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/food-safety/phthalates-linked-to-lower-fertility-in-men-and-women

1.9

The Real News Network
Billionaire Tom Steyer and the Wealthy Trump Resistance Grifters
The outrage toward Trump has proved to be lucrative for several self-professed leaders of the Resistance
by Michael Sainato

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20880:Billionaire-Tom-Steyer-and-the-Wealthy-Trump-Resistance-Grifters

Finkelstein: Hamas Isn’t The Threat That Israel Claims (2/4)
In Part 2 of our interview on his new book “Gaza: An Inquest into Its Martyrdom,” Norman Finkelstein argues that Israeli propaganda — sometimes with Hamas’ help — has wildly exaggerated Hamas’ arsenal and the effectiveness of the “Iron Dome” missile defense system

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20877:Finkelstein%3A-Hamas-Isn%27t-The-Threat-That-Israel-Claims-%2824%29

Why is US Cutting Aid to Pakistan?
President Trump began the year with a tweet denouncing Pakistan, and followed up by announcing a new reduction of U.S. aid. Junaid Ahmad, director of the Center for Global Dialogue, explains the significance of Trump’s decision

*Compared to the slashing and burning in the name of empire by the US, the negotiatory approach of China and other actors may seem “sensible”, but I’d caution that their intent is to gain strategic advantage as well, and not to benefit the people of the region.

It may be a lesser evil, but that should not be interpreted as a greater good.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20867:Why-is-US-Cutting-Aid-to-Pakistan%3F

Far-Right Governments in Poland and Hungary Confront the EU
The European Union is trying to sanction Poland for undermining its judicial branch. However, the real issue seems to be Poland’s refusal to accept refugees, as required by the EU. Poland is now allying itself with Hungary, another right-wing government, in order to avoid sanctions

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20870:Far-Right-Governments-in-Poland-and-Hungary-Confront-the-EU

Baltimore’s $12M Youth Fund Gives Community the Reins (2/2)

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20832:Baltimore%27s-%2412M-Youth-Fund-Gives-Community-the-Reins-%2822%29
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
200,000 Salvadorans

http://www.accuracy.org/release/200000-salvadorans-interviews-available
—

FAIR
Wolff’s Trump Book Highlights White House Press Corps’ Access Trap
by Reed Richardson

https://fair.org/home/wolffs-trump-book-highlights-white-house-press-corps-access-trap

1.8

Disgust Follows Pictures of Seinfeld at ‘Anti-Terror Fantasy Camp’ in Occupied West Bank
Comedian blasted for attending facility that offers “special programs for tourists seeking a taste of the Israeli military experience”
by Jon Queally, staff writer
Common Dreams

*A comic who truly wishes to slay his audience

Provided they’re Palestinians

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/08/disgust-follows-pictures-seinfeld-anti-terror-fantasy-camp-occupied-west-bank
—

‘Do Kids Die, Mom?: Parenting in a World on Fire
Facing the future with trepidation during the Age of Trump
by Frida Berrigan

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/08/do-kids-die-mom-parenting-world-fire
—

The Real News Network
President Trump Targets Lifeline for Palestinian Refugees
In cutting aid to the United Nations Refugee Works Agency (UNRWA), President Trump is deepening Palestinian refugees’ suffering in pursuit of a dangerous Middle East agenda, says Max Blumenthal

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20863:President-Trump-Targets-Lifeline-for-Palestinian-Refugees

Norman Finkelstein on Gaza’s Martyrdom (1/4)
In his groundbreaking new book “Gaza: An Inquest into Its Martyrdom,” Norman Finkelstein argues that Israel, with U.S. backing, has caused a “humanitarian disaster” in Gaza, and that international human rights groups have failed to uphold justice for its besieged people

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20855:Norman-Finkelstein-on-Gaza%27s-Martyrdom-%2814%29

The Link Between Neoliberalism, Perfectionism, and Mental Health Disorders
A study of college-aged people in the U.S., Canada and Britain says that the increase in mental health disorders may be tied to an increase in perfectionism, which in turn is linked to the rise of neoliberalism in these countries since the ’80s. Thomas Curran, one of the study’s authors, explains

*A “perfect” storm of sociopathy

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20860:The-Link-Between-Neoliberalism%2C-Perfectionism%2C-and-Mental-Health-Disorders

Max Blumenthal on ‘Fire and Fury’, Clinton Probe, and Russiagate
The book ‘Fire and Fury’ sparks a rift between Trump and Bannon, the FBI revives scrutiny of the Clinton Foundation, and GOP Senators target the author of the Steele dossier. Best-selling author Max Blumenthal breaks down the growing intra-elite clashes and the key developments that are being overlooked

*”Fire and Fury”

And tales sold to idiots, signifying nothing

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20862:Max-Blumenthal-on-%27Fire-and-Fury%27%2C-Clinton-Probe%2C-and-Russiagate

Trump Administration Proposes Opening 90% Of US Waters To Offshore Drilling
The proposal has already received a lot of pushback from both sides of the aisle. Mitch Jones of Food & Water Watch says there’s still time to harness that widespread opposition and stop the expansion of extreme energy extraction before the policy change can take effect

*Spill, baby, spill

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20858:Trump-Administration-Proposes-Opening-90%25-Of-US-Waters-To-Offshore-Drilling

The Under-Covered News Stories of 2017 (Part 2)
From hate crimes against transgender people to the prosecution of over 200 people for the J20 anti-Trump protest, Adam Johnson of the Los Angeles Times and Fairness and Accuracy in Reporting breaks down the under-covered stories of 2017

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=20833
—

FAIR
MSNBC Ignores Catastrophic US-Backed War in Yemen
by Ben Norton

*If you think MSNBC’s silent on Yemen

You ain’t heard nothin’ yet (and won’t) on His Travesty’s collusion with Israel.

Biparty Mideast malevolence means “Our lips are sealed.”

https://fair.org/home/msnbc-yemen-russia-coverage-2017
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
“Fire and Fury” — New Reports Thicken Trump-Israel Plot

*Of the boogeyman

And who you boogie with

http://www.accuracy.org/release/fire-and-fury-new-reports-thicken-trump-israel-plot
—

Democracy Now!
Time’s Up: Activists Join Actresses on Golden Globes Red Carpet to Call for Gender & Racial Justice

*How will these Hollywooders, the vast majority of whom were staunch Clintonistas, react as the Demorats attempt to coopt this movement?

I’m not particularly sanguine as to the outcome from the likes of Oprah and ilk.

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/8/times_up_activists_join_actresses_on

1.5

Here Are the 19 Senate Democrats Still Not Committed to Defending Net Neutrality
“Are they going to ignore overwhelming public opinion during a tight election year and rubber stamp these 500+ pages of blatant, stinking corruption?”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/05/here-are-19-senate-democrats-still-not-committed-defending-net-neutrality

New Study Showing Ozone Recovery Hailed as Model for Tackling Climate Crisis
“We see very clearly that chlorine from CFCs is going down in the ozone hole, and that less ozone depletion is occurring because of it”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2018/01/05/new-study-showing-ozone-recovery-hailed-model-tackling-climate-crisis
—

Trump Wants Homeland Security to Continue Dirty Work of Voter Suppression
Purging voters is Kobach’s aim
by Brian Tashman

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/05/trump-wants-homeland-security-continue-dirty-work-voter-suppression
–

Let’s Make 2018 the Year We Rise Up and Regenerate!
Planet Earth will survive in one form or another, no matter what damage we humans inflict on it. The question is, will we survive with it?
by Ronnie Cummins

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/05/lets-make-2018-year-we-rise-and-regenerate
—

The Real News Network
North and South Korea Talk, but Is Trump in the Way?
Following more belligerence from President Trump’s Twitter account, North and South Korea have announced their first direct talks in years. It’s a big step towards rapprochement, says journalist Tim Shorrock, but the U.S. could be a major obstacle

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20861:North-and-South-Korea-Talk%2C-but-Is-Trump-in-the-Way%3F

Oregon Court: Banning Fossil Fuel Facilities is Constitutional
An Oregon appeals court ruled that restricting fossil fuel infrastructure is constitutional, overruling a lower appeals court decision. It’s an important victory in the fight against climate change, and for local self-determination, says Nicholas Caleb of the Center for Sustainable Economy

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20856:Oregon-Court%3A-Banning-Fossil-Fuel-Facilities-is-Constitutional

Warren Buffett Wins $1 Million Bet That Hedge Funds Are a Rip-Off
Billionaire investor Warren Buffett bet that hedge funds were a bad investment. Ten years later, Buffett’s wager proved that hedge funds earn only one third of what a stock index investment does. Economist Bill Black explains the numbers

*Call them “hedge hogs” for the swine they are.

As for security, how about a system that’s not designed to ensure most of the world has none?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20850:Warren-Buffett-Wins-%241-Million-Bet-That-Hedge-Funds-Are-a-Rip-Off

Baltimore’s $12M Youth Fund Gives Community the Reins
Adam Jackson, CEO of Leaders of a Beautiful Struggle and co-chair of the 34-person task force in charge of laying the fund’s groundwork, says that letting the community decide where the money goes will ensure it gets to the right places, particularly black-led organizations in Baltimore

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20826:Baltimore%27s-%2412M-Youth-Fund-Gives-Community-the-Reins
—

FAIR
Think Tank-Addicted Media Turn to Regime Change Enthusiasts for Iran Protest Commentary
by Adam Johnson

https://fair.org/home/think-tank-addicted-media-turn-to-regime-change-enthusiasts-for-iran-protest-commentary
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Schools without Heat: Symptom of “Destructive Inequalities”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/schools-without-heat-symptom-of-destructive-inequalities

1.4

The Polar Vortex, Winter Storm Grayson, and Climate Change: What’s the Connection?
Scientists are making progress in better understanding how much natural seasonal patterns, ocean cycles, and other factors play a role in altering the jet stream and how much global warming is responsible
by Brenda Ekwurzel

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/04/polar-vortex-winter-storm-grayson-and-climate-change-whats-connection
–

If Trump Wants To End Roe v. Wade, We Must Fight For Legal Abortion
When abortion opponents, candidates and lawmakers speak of abolishing abortion, they are really talking about sending people who have abortions to jail
by Jill E. Adams

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/04/if-trump-wants-end-roe-v-wade-we-must-fight-legal-abortion
—

Social Media Madness: The Russia Canard
by Norman Solomon

*A baleful boogying down with a bogus boogeyman

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/185-more-blog-posts-from-norman-solomon/3437-social-media-madness-the-russia-canard
—

The Real News Network
Can Global Pressure Protect Palestinian Youth from Israel?
Musab Tamimi, the 17-year old cousin of jailed Palestinian teen Ahed Tamimi, has been shot dead by Israeli forces at a protest in the occupied West Bank. Musab, who was unarmed, is the latest Palestinian youth to die at the hands of Israelis after 35 were killed in 2016. Hundreds like Ahed are also tried by Israeli military courts each year

*A moral no brainer of a bill that has garnered all of twenty sponsors in over three years sends a different kind of “clear message” to the Israelis, don’t you think?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20846:Can-Global-Pressure-Protect-Palestinian-Youth-from-Israel%3F

Trump Tax Reform Targets High-Tax States, But There is a Way Out
The limitation of state and local tax deductability from the federal tax code will hit high tax states hard, but states can find ways around the law to maintain their revenues and the benefits they provide their citizens, says CEPR’s Dean Baker

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20848:Trump-Tax-Reform-Targets-High-Tax-States%2C-But-There-is-a-Way-Out
—

Democracy Now!
North and South Korean Leaders Agree to Direct Negotiations as Trump Provokes Kim Jong-un on Twitter

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/4/north_and_south_korea_leaders_agree

Fordham Students Sue over Free Speech Rights to Establish Students for Justice in Palestine Group

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/4/fordham_u_blocks_students_for_justice

1.3

What Happens If Trump Does Stop Aid To Palestinians?
US aid to the Palestinian Authority has averaged around $400 million a year – and primarily benefits Israel by reinforcing the status quo of occupation
by Ali Abunimah

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/03/what-happens-if-trump-does-stop-aid-palestinians
–

Corporate Coercion and the Drive to Eliminate Buying with Cash
Once you’re in the credit card system, lack of privacy and access to your credit are just the tip of the iceberg
by Ralph Nader

*Card sharks circling

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/03/corporate-coercion-and-drive-eliminate-buying-cash
–

Lorde Set An Example For Young Celebrities To Follow
Exhibiting the political maturity of a truly “informed young citizen”, she recognised why the overwhelming majority of Palestinians have called on international cultural figures not to entertain apartheid Israel
by Hind Awwad

*Art-washing, or art for artifice’s sake

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2018/01/03/lorde-set-example-young-celebrities-follow
—

Amnesty International
Ethiopia: Closure Of “Torture Chamber” Could Signal New Chapter For Human Rights

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2018/01/03/ethiopia-closure-torture-chamber-could-signal-new-chapter-human-rights

International Alliance in Support of Workers in Iran
Anti-Regime Protests in Iran

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/731-frieda-afary/3436-anti-regime-protests-in-iran
—

A game of chess: Gulf crisis expands into the Horn of Africa
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3435-a-game-of-chess-gulf-crisis-expands-into-the-horn-of-africa
—

The Real News Network
Israel Responds to ‘Threat’ of Defiant Palestinian Teen
Israel’s governing Likud Party has called for annexing the occupied West Bank, and the Knesset has passed a law that seeks to cement control of East Jerusalem. Shir Hever says the moves are a response to growing Israeli isolation in the wake of a recent UN vote and the defiance of jailed Palestinian teen Ahed Tamimi

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20840:Israel-Responds-to-%27Threat%27-of-Defiant-Palestinian-Teen
—

Democracy Now!
Trump’s Vow to Support Iran Opposition Carries “No Credibility” as Demonstrations Enter Sixth Day

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/3/trumps_vow_to_support_iran_opposition
—

This nutrient may lower your risk of type 2 diabetes
Losing weight and exercise can lower your risk of type 2 diabetes. But getting more of this mineral may help, too
by Caitlin Dow
Nutrition Action

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/diabetes-and-diet-cat/this-nutrient-may-lower-your-risk-of-type-2-diabetes

1/2

COP23: From the Gap to the Precipice
by Daniel Tanuro

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/730-daniel-tanuro/3433-cop23-from-the-gap-to-the-precipice
–

Betting on the wrong horse? US and Iranian hardliners spin anti-government protests
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3431-betting-on-the-wrong-horse-us-and-iranian-hardliners-spin-anti-government-protests
–

Life without Limits: The Delusions of Technological Fundamentalism
In a routinely delusional world, what is the most dangerous delusion?
by Robert Jensen

http://www.abc.net.au/religion/articles/2018/01/01/4785940.htm
—

Remaining Peaceful Was Their Choice
Kathy Kelly describes life in Yemen’s city Ta’iz during 2011’s Arab Spring and under present-day U.S./Saudi bombardment

https://www.counterpunch.org/2018/01/…/yemen-remaining-peaceful-was-their-choice
—

The Real News Network
Let Down by Reformists, Working-Class Iranians Join Widespread Protests
Thousands have taken to the streets in Iran’s largest and deadliest protests since 2009. Exiled Iranian activist Dariush Arjmandi says demonstrators are challenging economic mismanagement and repressive state control, not pushing the regime change agenda of Iran’s global foes

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20841:Let-Down-by-Reformists%2C-Working-Class-Iranians-Join-Widespread-Protests

Just How Democratic Is Mexico?
As neoliberalism caused greater inequality and poverty in Mexico since the 1990s, the country’s leaders stifled press freedom and democratic rights in order to maintain power. Now Mexico has one of the world’s highest murder rates of journalists, explains CEPR’s Mark Weisbrot

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20835:Just-How-Democratic-Is-Mexico%3F

2017 A Banner Year for Corporate Mergers, Which Further Deepens Inequality
Low interest rates, “quantitative easing,” and the mitigation of antitrust laws led to more mergers and acquisitions in 2017, but that’s only going to fuel greater wealth inequality and tighten the corporate grip on the political system, explains economist Michael Hudson

*Being far from an economic policy work, I appreciate Hudson’s analysis, but I’m nonplussed by his faith in Sanders and Warren, who, when push comes to shove, haven’t evinced any desire to do much more than posture as “populists” versus the DNCistas, as evidenced by their continued talk of “unity” with a party leadership that despises even their relatively tepid policy positions, much less anything that would legitimately justify the hashtag “#OurRevolution”.

Ideological purity?

When the shit hits the fan, I think it’ll be seen as simple survival mode.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20818:2017-A-Banner-Year-for-Corporate-Mergers%2C-Which-Further-Deepens-Inequality

The Under-Covered News Stories of 2017 (Part 1)
From African-American voter suppression to the U.S. role in Yemen’s humanitarian crisis, Adam Johnson of the Los Angeles Times and Fairness and Accuracy in Reporting breaks down the under-covered stories of 2017

*Out of their sights

Out of our minds

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20816:The-Under-Covered-News-Stories-of-2017-%28Pt.1%29

The Right is Waging War on Academic Freedom
The resignation of Drexel University Professor Ciccariello-Maher following right-wing threats and harassment is the result of a broader, ongoing right-wing campaign to intimidate progressive professors throughout the U.S., and it’s having a chilling effect on academic freedom, says Trinity College Professor Johnny Williams

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20825:The-Right-is-Waging-War-on-Academic-Freedom

Why is Egypt Counting on US Aid to Israel?
Trump’s promise to stop aid is based on a misunderstanding of how aid works

*An empty posturing belies an insidious profiting

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20827:Why-is-Egypt-Counting-on-US-Aid-to-Israel%3F
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Korea and Olympics: Opening for Dialogue?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/korea-and-olympics-opening-for-dialogue
—

FAIR
NYT’s ‘Trump Effect’ Mainly the Effect of Higher Oil Prices
by Dean Baker

https://fair.org/home/nyts-trump-effect-mainly-the-effect-of-higher-oil-prices
—

Democracy Now!
Glenn Greenwald on Iran Protests: Trump Tweets “Time for Change” While Backing Dictators Worldwide

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/2/glenn_greenwald_on_iran_protests_trump

Glenn Greenwald: Is Facebook Operating as an Arm of the Israeli State by Removing Palestinian Posts?

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/2/glenn_greenwald_is_facebook_operating_as

Glenn Greenwald on Trump-Russia Probe: Be Skeptical of Spy Agencies with History of Lying & Deceit

https://www.democracynow.org/2018/1/2/glenn_greenwald_on_trump_russia_probe

December 2017

 

12.29

The Real News Network
Outrage in Peru Over Pardon of Ex-President Fujimori
Thousands of protestors took to the streets amid suspicions that President Kuczynski pardoned former President Fujimori, who was serving a 25-year sentence for crimes against humanity, in order to avoid impeachment for corruption

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20809:Outrage-in-Peru-Over-Pardon-of-Ex-President-Fujimori

Conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo Leads to World’s Worst Refugee Crisis
A flare-up of conflicts between Congolese, Ugandan, and irregular forces in the Democratic Republic of Congo has caused one of the world’s worst refugee crises and also contributed to the killing of at least 14 UN peacekeepers in the Congo in early December

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20817:Conflict-in-the-Dem.-Rep.-of-Congo-Leads-to-World%27s-Worst-Refugee-Crisis
—

Democracy Now!
Concerns Raised About $1 Billion Facial Scan Program with High Error Rate at Nine U.S. Airports

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/29/concerns_raised_about_1_billion_facial

“Mental” Author Jaime Lowe on Living with Bipolar Disorder, Facing Social Stigma & Finding Support

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/28/mental_author_jaime_lowe_on_living

12.28

#GOPTaxScam Equals a Big Win for Investors in Mass Incarceration
Because private prisons are classified as “real estate investment trusts,” investors will get a major tax cut thanks to the Republican tax law
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/28/goptaxscam-equals-big-win-investors-mass-incarceration
—

When Companies Deny Climate Science, Their Workers Pay
General Electric doubled down on coal. Now, 12,000 workers are paying the price
by Carla Santos Skandier

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/28/when-companies-deny-climate-science-their-workers-pay
–

Student Debt Slavery: Bankrolling Financiers On The Backs Of The Young
Higher education has been financialized, transformed from a public service into a lucrative cash cow for private investors
by Ellen Brown

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/28/student-debt-slavery-bankrolling-financiers-backs-young
–

What #MeToo Can Teach the Labor Movement
Everyone has to be all-in for rebuilding unions
by Jane McAlevey

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/28/what-metoo-can-teach-labor-movement
–

How Big Oil Lost Control of Its Climate Misinformation Machine
by Neela Banerjee

*The mirrors that suckle the smoke

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/728-neela-banerjee/3429-how-big-oil-lost-control-of-its-climate-misinformation-machine
—

UE Research & Education Fund
UE Helps Set Up Global GE Trade Union Network

http://www.ueref.org/2017/ue-helps-set-up-global-ge-trade-union-network
—

As Russian Election Begins, Will Russiagate End?
Russian politician Alexi Navalny is calling for a boycott of next year’s presidential election after being barred from running over corruption charges. We speak to Professor Stephen F. Cohen about Navalny, the Russian election, and how Russians are viewing the never-ending Russiagate controversy in the US

*The irony of Madame Mayhem pimping this Russia to Judgement isn’t lost on those in that country with a clear memory of American mendacity.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20806:As-Russian-Election-Begins%2C-Will-Russiagate-End%3F

Corporations Hoard Their Trump Tax Windfall
After President Trump signed the GOP tax plan into law, some of the bill’s corporate beneficiaries have offered workers minor bonuses. But economist Bill Black says they’re keeping most of the money for themselves — and starting a new global race to the bottom for corporate taxes

*Let them eat cake

If they can find a bakery dumpster

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20808:Corporations-Hoard-Their-Trump-Tax-Windfall
—

Petition
Global leaders call on Samsung to protect workers in Vietnam, Korea and around the world
by Ted Smith

https://www.change.org/p/global-leaders-call-on-samsung-to-protect-workers-in-vietnam-korea-and-around-the-world
—

Democracy Now!
“Bussed Out”: How Cities Are Giving Thousands of Homeless People One-Way Bus Tickets to Leave Town

*No home for humanity

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/28/bussed_out_how_cities_are_giving

Lithium, Love and Losing My Mind: Jaime Lowe on Her Life with Bipolar Disorder & Drugs to Manage It

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/28/lithium_love_and_losing_my_mind

12.27

As Wealthiest Amass Another $1 Trillion in 2017, Calls for a ‘Strike Back’ Against Oligarchy
“We can have a world where everyone has a decent home, the chance for an education, and access to healthcare. Or we can have billionaires. We can’t have both.”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Think those “commendable” “good intentions” by some exploitocrats (which one would be well advised to take with a sea’s worth of salt) might have something to do with their “concern” over killing their golden goose?

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/27/wealthiest-amass-another-1-trillion-2017-calls-strike-back-against-oligarchy

Report Finds Sexual Harassment Is Prevalent at DOJ, With Little Accountability for Those Accused
Even in cases involving potential criminal assault, the DOJ has failed to hold those accused of sexual misconduct accountable
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/27/report-finds-sexual-harassment-prevalent-doj-little-accountability-those-accused

‘This Is Simply Price Gouging’: Cost of Cancer Drug Hiked 1,400% Since 2013
“This is a Shkreliesque move, and is near to first degree murder as one can get without risking jail,” said one critic, referencing the Big Pharma CEO that infamously raised the price of an AIDS treatment
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*NextSource …

“Can’t afford it?

Next!”

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/27/simply-price-gouging-cost-cancer-drug-hiked-1400-2013
—

How It Could Finally Be Possible to Prosecute War as a Crime
by David Swanson

http://worldbeyondwar.org/prosecute
—

The Real News Network
The Pathology of the Rich – Chris Hedges on Reality Asserts Itself (Part 1)
On RAI with Paul Jay, Chris Hedges discusses the psychology of the super rich; their sense of entitlement, the dehumanization of workers, and mistaken belief that their wealth will insulate them from the coming storms

*Those addicted to wealth and power have no vision for tomorrow

Only a viciousness for today

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:11150:The-Pathology-of-the-Rich—Chris-Hedges-on-Reality-Asserts-Itself-pt1

12.26

Oil Giants Invest $180B in Plastics, Propelling Oceans Toward ‘Near-Permanent’ Pollution
“We could be locking in decades of expanded plastics production at precisely the time the world is realizing we should use far less of it”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/26/oil-giants-invest-180b-plastics-propelling-oceans-toward-near-permanent-pollution
—

Street Kids School in Kabul: Stepping Stones to Change
“Those kids working in the street, they don’t have much time to think about their life and they don’t have time to think about their best future”
by Carolyn Coe

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/26/street-kids-school-kabul-stepping-stones-change
—

The Real News Network
India’s Capital of Delhi has the World’s Worst Air Pollution – Why?
Fossil fuels, especially coal, are the main culprits, but despite the public health emergency, the government is not acting on this issue, says Shouvik Chakraborty, research fellow at PERI

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20781:India%27s-Capital-of-Delhi-has-the-World%27s-Worst-Air-Pollution—Why%3F

Rattling the Bars: The Strange Case of Merle Unger
TRNN Executive Producer Eddie Conway examines the landmark case of Unger v. State of Maryland, which was responsible for the release of over 200 prisoners in 2014. However, Merle Unger, who won the case, remains locked up after 42 years of incarceration

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20787:Rattling-the-Bars%3A-The-Strange-Case-of-Merle-Unger

Ending Violence Against Sex Workers
Sex Workers Outreach Project works to end violence and discrimination against sex workers, often by smashing stereotypes
by Dharna Noor

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20802:Ending-Violence-Against-Sex-Workers
—

Democracy Now!
Allan Nairn: United States Tries—But Fails—to Stop to Stop Hondurans from Protesting Election Fraud

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/26/incumbent_honduras_president_declares_victory_in

Allan Nairn: By Recognizing Jerusalem as Capital of Israel, Trump Drops “Pretense of Neutrality”

*The velvet glove falls from fashion

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/26/allan_nairn_by_recognizing_jerusalem_as

2017 in Review: Allan Nairn on Trump’s “Rightist Revolution” & the Social Movements Pushing Back

*As always, the struggle is not simply to defeat the worst elements of the exploitocracy, but to rip the mask off their “kinder, gentler” enablers.

Failure to achieve both, and move beyond what passes for “Our Revolution” in the US, leaves us with only our epitaph to compose.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/26/2017_in_review_allan_nairn_on

12.25

A Radical Vision for Food: Everyone Growing It for Each Other
Consider the gift economy, brilliantly on display every Sunday in the Fruitvale neighborhood of Oakland, California
by Peter Kalmus

*Food for thoughtfulness

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/25/radical-vision-food-everyone-growing-it-each-other
–

Violating the Sacred: GMO Chestnuts for the Holidays?
Is our meddling risking further damage to already fragile ecosystems that have since compensated for the loss of the American chestnut tree?
by BJ McManama

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/24/violating-sacred-gmo-chestnuts-holidays
—

The Real News Network
The Cost of Exclusion: Gender Job Segregation Hurts the Working Class
Although women’s share of employment in most countries has increased, women’s share of the “good” jobs in the industrial sector has declined substantially over the past few decades, and that inequality is creating a weaker working class as a whole, says Stephanie Seguino of the University of Vermont

*A woman’s work is never done

Being devalued

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20742:The-Cost-of-Exclusion%3A-Gender-Job-Segregation-Hurts-the-Working-Class

Will New ANC President Ramaphosa Bring Real Change to South Africa?
Cyril Ramaphosa, who was recently elected to head South Africa’s ANC, is closely associated with major economic interests in South Africa, such as the Lonmin Mining Company, and is thus unlikely to bring about real change, says Patrick Bond

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20783:Will-New-ANC-President-Ramaphosa-Bring-Real-Change-to-South-Africa%3F

The Navajo Nation’s Water Crisis
Nearly 40 percent of residents on the Navajo Reservation still do not have running water in their homes
by Michael Sainato

*A trail of toxic tears

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20795:The-Navajo-Nation%27s-Water-Crisis

California Wild Fire Becomes Largest Ever Recorded
As 2017 marks a new benchmark for climate-change related U.S. disasters, FEMA director tells Americans they “will have to take care of themselves” when disasters strike

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20789:California-Wild-Fire-Becomes-Largest-Ever-Recorded

Baltimore City Council to Propose Income-Based Water Billing
A new report shows that half of Baltimore households will be unable to afford water by 2019, but new legislation could change that

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20778:Baltimore-City-Council-to-Propose-Income-Based-Water-Billing

Five Corporations Hire Two Intelligence Firms to Spy on Activists
The Guardian exposes corporate espionage against human rights groups

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20741:Five-Corporations-Hire-Two-Intelligence-Firms-to-Spy-on-Activists

US Works to Uphold Flawed Honduras Vote
The Trump administration is trying to legitimize the conservative incumbent’s position in office by convincing friendly governments to recognize the deeply flawed vote in Honduras, despite growing calls for a new vote, explains Mark Weisbrot

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20774:US-Works-to-Uphold-Flawed-Honduras-Vote
—

FAIR
Journalists Who Relayed GOP’s Deficit Moaning Owe Us Apologies
by Adam Johnson

*Of course, “a healthy media” wouldn’t have pimped this piss in the first place

And collective amnesia will again set in when lifeline social programs are guillotined in the name of “fiscal responsibility”, won’t it just?

https://fair.org/home/journalists-who-relayed-gops-deficit-moaning-owe-us-apologies

12.22

‘Horrifying Step Backwards’ as Sessions Retracts Guidance Designed to End Abuse of Poor by Courts
Attorney General abandons directive to protect the poor from needless fines
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*From the toothless

To the heartless

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/22/horrifying-step-backwards-sessions-retracts-guidance-designed-end-abuse-poor-courts

Right-wing Groups Plan to Spend Millions to Convince Americans GOP Tax Scam Is Actually Good for Them
While Trump says tax plan is “selling itself,” GOP donor groups launch major advertising campaign amid growing opposition
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Malefactoring consent

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/22/right-wing-groups-plan-spend-millions-convince-americans-gop-tax-scam-actually-good

‘Beyond the Pale’: Outcry as Trump Administration Considers Separating Immigrant Families at Border
“Cruelty as official government policy”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/22/beyond-pale-outcry-trump-administration-considers-separating-immigrant-families

‘Pathetic’: Democratic Leaders Called Out for Betraying Vow to Fight for Dreamers
“Congress shouldn’t leave town to celebrate the holidays with our families while 800,000 Dreamers fear being ripped apart from their families”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Demoratcy in action

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/22/pathetic-democratic-leaders-called-out-betraying-vow-fight-dreamers
—

The Real News Network
UN Defies Trump Threats on Jerusalem Vote
Despite a threat from US Ambassador Nikki Haley to pull United Nations funding, the UN General Assembly has overwhelmingly approved a measure rejecting President Trump’s decision on Jerusalem

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20773:UN-Defies-Trump-Threats-on-Jerusalem-Vote

Despite Not Guilty Verdict in First Inauguration Case, U.S. Attorney Won’t Drop Charges Against Others
The case was a test of First Amendment rights of free speech and association under Trump, and the verdict is a blow to federal prosecutors and the D.C. police–yet the U.S. Attorney has decided not to drop charges against the remaining 180-plus defendants. But one of those defendants, Elizabeth Lagesse, says she’s cautiously optimistic

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20772:Despite-Not-Guilty-Verdict-in-First-Inauguration-Case%2C-U.S.-Attorney-Won%27t-Drop-Charges-Against-Othe
—

Petition
UE Research and Education Fund
Stop the attack on workers’ rights in Mexico

https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/stop-the-attack-on-workers-rights-in-mexico
—

Democracy Now!
Stoked! Journalist Alexei Wood & First J20 Defendants Found “Not Guilty” as 188 Still Face Trial

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/22/stoked_journalist_alexei_wood_first_j20

Catalan Separatists Win Slim Electoral Majority Despite Jailing & Exile of Pro-Independence Leaders

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/22/catalan_separatists_win_slim_electoral_majority

12.21

Betraying Ratepayers and Clean Energy Future, Georgia Panel Approves Vogtle Nuclear Reactors
“The commission has failed Georgia’s hard-working families and businesses today by choosing to be lapdogs for Georgia Power instead of watchdogs for the people of Georgia”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Nuclear fisting

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/21/betraying-ratepayers-and-clean-energy-future-georgia-panel-approves-vogtle-nuclear

Corporate America Denounced for ‘Shameless’ Pandering by Issuing Paltry Worker Perks After Winning Permanent Tax Cuts Worth Countless Billions
Critics say attempt by major companies to attribute worker wage boosts to a tax bill that hasn’t even been signed into law is clear effort to “flatter” Trump
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Crumbs that take the cake

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/21/corporate-america-denounced-shameless-pandering-issuing-paltry-worker-perks-after
—

The Real News Network
Not Guilty in Inauguration Protest Case
A jury found the first six defendants to stand trial in connection with protests at Trump’s inauguration not guilty on all charges
by Baynard Woods

*Regardless of the verdict, justice is never fully served once the innocent are subjected to such an ordeal

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=20770%27%20style=%27color:#000;

US Pressure Led to Massacre of Colombian Farmers
Empire Files’ Abby Martin says the massacre of unarmed coca farmers in Tumaco, Colombia was in response to pressure from the Trump administration to undermine the government’s crop substitution agreement and use force in the “war on drugs”

*To a poor Colombian, the difference between His Travesty and any precedent president is purely academic.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20752:US-Pressure-Led-to-Massacre-of-Colombian-Farmers

Trump, GOP Pull Off Their Tax Heist
Congressional Republicans have approved their tax bill, a massive upward transfer of wealth that fulfills a decades-long right-wing goal of permanent tax cuts for corporations. We speak to professor and author Bill Black

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20764:Trump%2C-GOP-Pull-Off-Their-Tax-Heist
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
UN Vote on Jerusalem: U.S. as “Capo dei Capi”

*Security Council

Or protection racket?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/un-vote-on-jerusalem-u-s-as-capo-dei-capi
—

Democracy Now!
ACLU Investigation Reveals Texas Troopers Are Turning Traffic Stops of Immigrants into Deportations

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/21/no_drivers_license_texas_state_troopers

12.20

While US Attacks Net Neutrality, UK Makes High-Speed Internet ‘Legal Right’
Rejecting major telecom company’s offer to voluntarily expand in rural regions, UK government says speedy broadband service now mandatory nationwide by 2020
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/20/while-us-attacks-net-neutrality-uk-makes-high-speed-internet-legal-right

Ignoring Increased Support for DACA, Dems Back Off Pledge to Pass Year-End Fix
As protests continue across the country, Democrats in Congress set to renege on promises to pass immigrant protections alongside funding extension
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Dem·o·crat
/ˈdeməˌkrat/
noun

“They cannot just tell us they are going to do something and then just drop out.”

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/20/ignoring-increased-support-daca-dems-back-pledge-pass-year-end-fix
—

The Real Story Behind Katharine Graham and “The Post”
by Norman Solomon

*The insidious irony of liberal iconogy

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/185-more-blog-posts-from-norman-solomon/3423-the-real-story-behind-katharine-graham-and-the-post
—

National Day Laborer Organizing Network (NDLON)
The Immigrant Workers Rebuilding Houston

https://www.facebook.com/NDLON/videos/vb.109002312461418/1937313619630269
—

The Real News Network
Jill Stein Denounces Probe over ‘Collusion with Russians’
The Green Party presidential candidate says she will comply with the Senate investigation of her campaign, but warns that “a noose is tightening around our democratic institutions”

*How much “#Resistance” will we see to this witch hunt?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20750:Jill-Stein-Denounces-Probe-over-%27Collusion-with-Russians%27

Conservative Billionaire Wins Chile’s Election, But A New Left Emerges
Conservative former President Sebastian Pinera won a new term in office, but that doesn’t mean that a majority of Chileans support a right-wing agenda, says scholar Rene Rojas. In fact, a main issue was that the center-left candidate wasn’t progressive enough

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20740:Conservative-Billionaire-Wins-Chile%27s-Election%2C-But-A-New-Left-Emerges
—

Democracy Now!
“The Rape of Recy Taylor”: How Rosa Parks Helped a Sharecropper Report Her Assault & Seek Justice

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/20/the_rape_of_recy_taylor_how
—

Dodging endocrine disruptors: Here’s what you need to know about phthalates
by Leah Ettman
Nutrition Action

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/food-safety/phthalates

12.19

“Slave Ship Conditions” for Somalis as Deportation Flight Sheds Light on Horrific Practices Under Trump
For nearly 48 hours, before a deportation flight bound for Somalia was rerouted back to the U.S., 92 people on board were shackled and denied food, water, and access to bathrooms
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/19/slave-ship-conditions-somalis-deportation-flight-sheds-light-horrific-practices
—

Trump’s Muslim Ban Repeats the Constitutional Travesty Committed Against Japanese-Americans in World War II
Trump is taking the nation back to a time that was specifically and undeniably not “great”
by Cecillia Wang

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/19/trumps-muslim-ban-repeats-constitutional-travesty-committed-against-japanese
–

Communists Sweep the Nepali Elections
by Vijay Prashad

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/132-more-blog-posts-from-vijay-prashad/3422–communists-sweep-the-nepali-elections
—

The Real News Network
Motion Alleges Lead Detective in J20 Case Gave False Testimony to Grand Jury
According to a recent motion, MPD Detective Greggory Pemberton made false statements in order to bring charges against protesters
by Baynard Woods

*I’m concerned about this seeming division of protesters into “the good” and “the bad”.

I haven’t seen a detailed description of the so called “criminal activity” and “destruction” by an unbiased source, and so I don’t have a clear idea of just what occurred, and under what circumstances

And even if acts were directed at “innocents”, no legitimate sense of justice could countenance the sentences initially sought by the prosecution.

I’d ask why hasn’t this outlet or others haven’t talked to those who committed these “crimes” to get their perspective. We can question the rationale for them without aiding and abetting the demonization of their perpetrators by the powers that be, can’t we?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20754:Motion-Alleges-Lead-Detective-in-J20-Case-Gave-False-Testimony-to-Grand-Jury

Marikana Massacre Hangs Over South Africa’s New Extremely Rich ANC Leader
After a tight race that exposed stark divisions within the party, the African National Congress elected Cyril Ramaphosa, an anti-apartheid crusader, business tycoon, and key suspect in the 2012 Marikana Massacre, is positioned to be the country’s next president. But will he root out corruption, or is he part of the problem?

*The laurels the old guard rest on turned brown and brittle long ago

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20744:Marikana-Massacre-Hangs-Over-South-Africa%27s-New-Extremely-Rich-ANC-Leader
—

FAIR
The Two Main Ways Corporate Media Will Whitewash McCain’s Legacy
by Adam Johnson

*A Maverick?

I always considered him more of a Pinto.

https://fair.org/home/the-two-main-ways-corporate-media-will-whitewash-mccains-legacy

‘Watching Funds Be Depleted to Pay for This Tax Bill Is Unacceptable’
CounterSpin interview with Rebecca Cokley on GOP ‘Tax on Disability’
by Janine Jackson

https://fair.org/home/watching-funds-be-depleted-to-pay-for-this-tax-bill-is-unacceptable
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Tax Bill: Senators’ Special Tax Breaks, Duping Public

*Tax and spin

http://www.accuracy.org/release/tax-bill-senators-special-tax-breaks-duping-public
—

Democracy Now!
Puerto Rico Orders Recount of Hurricane Maria Death Toll After Investigation Suggests 1,000+ Died

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/19/puerto_rico_orders_recount_of_hurricane

Kali Akuno on the Struggle for Economic Democracy and Black Self-Determination Amid Rise in White Supremacy

*This and similar actions around the nation and the world need to be much more closely followed by “alternative media”.

Protests are vital to cover, but those doing day to day organizing to realize a different socioeconomic reality have a story to tell that we hear far too little about.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/19/kali_akuno_on_the_struggle_for

12.18

How Orwell Used Wartime Rationing to Argue for Global Justice
Orwell’s response to inequality between nations could be more instructive than ever
by Bruce Robbins

*If solidarity isn’t shoreless

It is ultimately soulless

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/18/how-orwell-used-wartime-rationing-argue-global-justice
–

How Latin America Bucked The Trend Of Rising Inequality
Through sustained networking and resistance, which secured redistribution and recognition, many Latin Americans have come to expect more of their governments
by Alice Evans

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/18/how-latin-america-bucked-trend-rising-inequality
–

NYT Does Publicity Work for Senator Rubio, Tries to Package Him as “Longtime Champion of the Working Class”
by Dean Baker

*A pittance from a pissant

http://cepr.net/blogs/beat-the-press/nyt-does-publicity-work-for-senator-rubio-tries-to-package-him-as-longtime-champion-of-the-working-class
–

Trading Jerusalem for Iran
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3417-trading-jerusalem-for-iran
—

The Real News Network
Undoing the New Deal: African-Americans, Racism and the FDR/Johnson Reforms (Part 5)
Historian Gerald Horne says that to pass the New Deal legislation, FDR allowed discriminatory practices to appease the racist Dixiecrat section of the Democratic Party; the reforms of the ’60s that responded to the upsurge of the civil rights movement helped Black Americans, but have been undone by Democratic and Republican administrations since – with host Paul Jay

*We can mull Roosevelt’s motivations in shafting blacks and other “others”, but as with all such ruminations, they mean little to those afflicted by his actions, don’t they?

If we agree that the New Deal was meant to save capitalism, we have to acknowledge that agriculture is a vital component of it, and omitting reforms in that sector kept its oppressive nature intact, to the intense detriment of not only blacks, but also landless whites, Latinos and others.

So was inequality an unavoidable fault of the policy

Or was it a intentional feature?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20708:Undoing-the-New-Deal%3A-African-Americans%2C-Racism-and-the-FDRJohnson-Reforms-%28Pt5%29

Disney Buys Fox, Will Viewers Pay the Price?
Disney’s $52.4 billion purchase of 21st Century Fox shrinks the media landscape, increases Fox News’ position, and could jack prices for consumers, says Craig Aaron of Free Press

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20724:Disney-Buys-Fox%2C-Will-Viewers-Pay-the-Price%3F

How Right-Wing Sinclair Plans to Take Over Local TV
If Sinclair’s purchase of Tribune Media’s 42 TV stations goes through, they’ll be able to insidiously insert conservative commentary and right-wing messaging into 72% of U.S. homes

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20581:How-Right-Wing-Sinclair-Plans-to-Take-Over-Local-TV

Real Media: Why We Need to Rethink Transport
AirPublic co-founder Hannah Gardiner talks about the need for progressive and radical policies to improve air quality, especially in transportation

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20728:Real-Media%3A-Why-We-Need-to-Rethink-Transport
—

FAIR
NYT Failed to Note Op-Ed Authors’ Funder Has $2 Billion Motive for Attacking Argentina
by Eli Clifton

https://fair.org/home/nyt-failed-to-note-op-ed-authors-funder-has-2-billion-motive-for-attacking-argentina
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Is the National Security Strategy Military Dominance?

*The well traveled path of least #Resistance

http://www.accuracy.org/release/is-the-national-security-strategy-military-dominance

Sexual Harassment and Low-Wage Women

*Sleaze amidst the grease

http://www.accuracy.org/release/sexual-harassment-and-low-wage-women
—

Democracy Now!
“All Eyes on U.S.” as Honduran Election Panel Declares Incumbent President Hernández Election Winner

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/18/all_eyes_on_us_as_honduran

“CorkerKickback?”: Sen. Supports Tax Bill After Last-Minute Provision Would Personally Enrich Him

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/18/corkerkickback_sen_supports_tax_bill_after

Kali Akuno: Tax Bill is One of Greatest Transfers of Wealth from Working Class to Rich in History

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/18/kali_akuno_tax_bill_is_one

Yemen Bombed to Brink of Famine as U.S.-Backed Saudi Coalition Targets Food Supplies

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/15/us_backed_saudi_bombing_of_yemen

12.15

Capitalism’s Failure Of The Flesh: The Rise Of The Robots
The system and its machines must begin to serve humanity, as opposed to what has been the case since the advent of the industrial/technological age: the mass of humanity serving the machine
by Phil Rockstroh

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/15/capitalisms-failure-flesh-rise-robots
—

Green Party Blasts FCC’s Repeal of Net Neutrality Rules, Demands Public Ownership of Internet Access

*Never depend on the kindness of corporate strangers

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/12/14/green-party-blasts-fccs-repeal-net-neutrality-rules-demands-public-ownership

People’s Action
Alabama Special Election Revives the Civil Rights Movement to Restore Voting Rights to Millions of People Nationwide
Nationwide, 48 states could repeal similar restrictions, potentially adding six million eligible voters in coming elections

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/12/14/alabama-special-election-revives-civil-rights-movement-restore-voting-rights
—

The Real News Network
Ecuador’s Vice-President Sentenced to Six Years Prison for Corruption
Ecuador’s Vice-President Jorge Glas has been sentenced to six years prison for taking $13 million in bribes from the construction company Odebrecht. However, the case is being complicated by a split within the ruling party and between President Moreno and ex-President Correa

*I’d look askance at Moreno’s assurances to indigenous folks and on the environment.

Left gummints in Latin America have in many instances abused them, and it, and Moreno may be attempting to play on this, with no intent to follow through on his promises.

Hardly an original tactic, needless to say.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20715:Ecuador%27s-Vice-President-Sentenced-to-Six-Years-Prison-for-Corruption

World Bank and World’s Third Largest Insurer Divest from Most Oil and Gas
“The fact that they are making this commitment, to not be financing upstream oil and gas after 2019 is a pretty strong vote of non-confidence in the future of the oil and gas industry,” says Alex Speers-Roesch of Greenpeace Canada

*These institutions are seemingly recognizing the obvious – that they can’t survive in a world of climate chaos

But the thing is, we can’t survive in a world with them. If their rhetoric is real, they’ll still be aligned with the exploitocracy, won’t they? Celebrating a recognition of their own self interest seems akin to focusing on a few trees while the forest is aflame.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20707:World-Bank-and-World%27s-Third-Largest-Insurer-Divest-from-Most-Oil-and-Gas

Baltimore Beat & TRNN: Is Having a White CEO in a Majority Black City a Problem? (3/4)
Baltimore Beat editor-in-chief Lisa Snowden-McCray interviews Real News senior editor Paul Jay on both the perception and substance of leadership in Baltimore

*I recall something about not judging persons by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character.

This wasn’t the context he was referencing, but it’s just as vital, isn’t it?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20714:Baltimore-Beat-%26-TRNN%3A-Is-Having-a-White-CEO-in-a-Majority-Black-City-a-Problem%3F-%2834%29
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Documents Show U.S. Violated Assurances to Moscow About Limiting NATO

*The insidious irony of “Trust, but verify”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/documents-show-u-s-violated-assurances-to-moscow-about-limiting-nato
—

The Best (Healthiest) Sweeteners for a Ketogenic Diet
by Dr. David Jockers

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/best-keto-sweeteners

12.14

US-Saudi nuclear talks: A barometer for whither the Middle East?
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3415-us-saudi-nuclear-talks-a-barometer-for-whither-the-middle-east
—

The Real News Network
Palestinians Stand Up to Israel, Will the World?
“Palestinians will continue to protest as long as they’re not liberated,” says writer Mariam Barghouti, “the question is, when will the rest of the world finally begin listening?”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20701:Palestinians-Stand-Up-to-Israel%2C-Will-the-World%3F

Can Baby Bonds Help Close Baltimore’s Wealth Gap?
Most social programs that address the poverty problem give out resources after someone has already experienced poverty, but “what we need is a structural apparatus in this society where people don’t get exposed to poverty in the first place,” says Dr. Sandy Darity

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20686:Can-Baby-Bonds-Help-Close-Baltimore%27s-Wealth-Gap%3F

Judge in J20 Case Drops Inciting Riot Charge But Condemns Journalism as Conspiracy
Reporter Alexei Wood is facing decades in prison for windows broken at a protest he was covering
by Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20705:Judge-in-J20-Case-Drops-Inciting-Riot-Charge-But-Condemns-Journalism-as-Conspiracy

Putin’s Syria ‘Victory’ Won’t End the Proxy War
Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared victory in Syria and says he’s withdrawing troops, but the proxy fight there remains and could ramp up in neighboring Lebanon, says Syria expert and scholar Joshua Landis

*Considering the “collateral damage” (perhaps the most insidious euphemism in the English language) engendered by all parties to the conflict, there will be many Syrians who will find little reason to “celebrate” this “victory”.

Yes, it is a complex situation, but ignoring the contradictions does nothing to bring it to a just conclusion.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20697:Putin%27s-Syria-%27Victory%27-Won%27t-End-the-Proxy-War
—

FAIR
Net Neutrality Repeal Is Only Part of Trump’s Surrender to Corporate Media
by Reed Richardson

*”[A]n extreme, right-wing ideology that thinks an unfettered free market is the cure for all evils.”

I think that should be “is the incubator for all evils”.

https://fair.org/home/net-neutrality-repeal-is-only-part-of-trumps-surrender-to-corporate-media
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Killing Net Neutrality: “Regulatory Capture by Commercial Interests”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/killing-net-neutrality-regulatory-capture-by-commercial-interests
—

Democracy Now!
U.S. Support “Vital” to Saudi Bombing of Yemen, Targeting Food Supplies as Millions Face Famine

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/14/us_backed_saudi_air_campaign_in

12.13

Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR)
Federal Monitor Submits Status Report in Court-Ordered NYPD Stop-and-Frisk Reforms, Advocates Raise Concerns

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/12/13/federal-monitor-submits-status-report-court-ordered-nypd-stop-and-frisk-reforms

Friends of the Earth
Sixth Round of NAFTA Talks Stall
Are NAFTA negotiations on the edge of collapse?

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/12/13/sixth-round-nafta-talks-stall
—

The Real News Network
Jones Wins, Bannon Loses in Alabama Special Election
Despite Far-Right former White House Chief Strategist Steve Bannon’s efforts to resurrect Roy Moore, Democrat Doug Jones pulled off a major upset in the Alabama U.S. Senate race
by Michael Sainato

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20693:Jones-Wins%2C-Bannon-Loses-in-Alabama-Special-Election

Racism and Trumpism in Alabama
As Alabama votes ​in the special Senate election, historian Gerald Horne and TRNN senior editor Paul Jay discuss why an alleged sexual predator and slavery apologist is even in the running

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20688:Racism-and-Trumpism-in-Alabama

Voter Suppression and Outright Fraud Continue to Plague Alabama
Despite voter suppression, the turnout will be high in order to defeat Roy Moore, explains Cliff Albright, of Black Voters Matter

*What I haven’t seen is a political profile of just who Jones is, and thus an indication of what he’ll do in the Senate.

What I have seen is support, and now celebration, for someone who is being depicted as being as virtuous as Moore is vile, and something tells me (namely, nearly a half century of paying close attention) that, as the song goes, it ain’t necessarily so.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20690:Voter-Suppression-and-Outright-Fraud-Continue-to-Plague-Alabama
—

FAIR
NYT Prints Government-Funded Propaganda About Government-Funded Propaganda
by Adam Johnson

*Pointing the finger

While hiding the hand

https://fair.org/home/nyt-prints-government-funded-propaganda-about-government-funded-propaganda

Russia or Corporate Tax Cuts: Which Would Comcast Rather MSNBC Cover?
by Eoin Higgins

*Russian dressing drenching a heaping helping of hypocrisy

https://fair.org/home/russia-or-corporate-tax-cuts-which-would-comcast-rather-msnbc-cover
—

Democracy Now!
Major Education Victory in Philadelphia as Parents, Teachers & Activists Reclaim Control of Schools

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/13/major_education_victory_in_philadelphia_as
—

What You Need to Know About DCIS Cancer That Could Save Your Breasts and Your Life
by Elyn Jacobs

*As always, I’m no expert

Use your best judgment, and never be satisfied with the knowledge employed to arrive at it.

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/dcis-cancer

12.12

Leaked Documents Expose How Corporations Use Spies to Subvert People’s Movements Worldwide
Given what “these companies have gotten away with,” concluded Naomi Klein, it is “no wonder they fear our power”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/12/leaked-documents-expose-how-corporations-use-spies-subvert-peoples-movements
—

WTO Summit to Ignore Price Crisis, Agricultural Dumping
Around the world, chronically low crop prices are keeping farmers from making a living despite record harvests
by Timothy Wise

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/10/wto-summit-ignore-price-crisis-agricultural-dumping-0
–

The Fempire Strikes Back: Out With Monstrous Men!
On #MeToo and what comes next
by Ann Jones

*As dangerous as a backlash

Is the back pat of cooptation

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/12/fempire-strikes-back-out-monstrous-men
—

Oil Change International
VA State Water Control Board Delays the Atlantic Coast Pipeline: Oil Change International Response

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/12/12/va-state-water-control-board-delays-atlantic-coast-pipeline-oil-change
—

The Real News Network
Can Pennsylvania Draw the Line on Partisan Gerrymandering?
Two trials in Pennsylvania–one state, one federal–are challenging how state Republicans have drawn up the electoral map, and the outcomes have major national implications

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20692:Can-Pennsylvania-Draw-the-Line-on-Partisan-Gerrymandering%3F

Venezuela’s Opposition Sidelines Itself in Municipal Elections
The opposition’s decision to boycott the Dec. 10 municipal elections guaranteed that governing party candidates would sweep the vote. Lucas Koerner, of Venezuelanalysis.com, explains that the boycott had nothing to do with the electoral system, but rather with the dysfunctional dynamics within the opposition

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20679:Venezuela%27s-Opposition-Sidelines-Itself-in-Municipal-Elections

Media or Cult? CNN Buries a Massive Russiagate Gaffe
Instead of explaining how it reported a false story on Russiagate, CNN brought on neocon David Frum to defend it. Max Blumenthal says that’s a “window into a cult created around Russiagate.”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20684:Media-or-Cult%3F-CNN-Buries-a-Massive-Russiagate-Gaffe

Can Mindfulness Help the Resistance?
Robert Wright, founder of the website Mindful Resistance and author of the bestseller “Why Buddhism is True,” argues that mindfulness meditation can help us become more effective political actors

*I think Wright evinces a certain level of naïveté, and I appreciate Maté pushing back on it, but his point’s taken – that you have to understand why people do something before you can develop a strategy to address it.

He makes an imperative point about not equating understanding with excusing, and I believe that needs to be incorporated into how reachable Trump supporters (and your guess is as good as mine as to what percentage that might be) should be approached.

This “I feel your pain” schlock from the DNCistas is transparently insincere to them. If it’s stated up front that their support for Citizen KKKane is inexcusable, and that the only way their legitimate grievances can be addressed is to reject both his bile and neoliberal elitismo, that might cut some ice for its honesty, as well as making goddamn clear that those plaints are our own, as well.

It’s a theory, at any rate.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20613:Can-Mindfulness-Help-the-Resistance%3F
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Nobel Peace Prize: Threats to Nuclear Ban Treaty

http://www.accuracy.org/release/nobel-peace-prize-threats-to-nuclear-ban-treaty

Why to be Wary of Fox News’ Reinvention of Exit Polling Tonight

*The unspoken portion of that Ailes quote

“So that worked out just fine.”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/why-to-be-wary-of-fox-news-reinvention-of-exit-polling-tonight

12.11

Meat Tax Crucial, Says Analysis, to Combat Climate Crisis and Global Health Threats
“Driven by a global consensus around meat’s negative contributions to climate change and global health epidemics such as obesity, cancer, and antibiotic resistance,” meat may soon be taxed like carbon, sugar, and tobacco
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/11/meat-tax-crucial-says-analysis-combat-climate-crisis-and-global-health-threats

‘Travesty of Justice’ as Trump DOJ Lifts Prosecution Threat for Banking Giant HSBC
Original agreement had been criticized as “the world’s largest wrist slap”
by Andrea Germanos, staff writer
Common Dreams

*A tap on the wrist

Followed by a big wet smack on the lips

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/11/travesty-justice-trump-doj-lifts-threat-prosecution-threat-banking-giant-hsbc
—

She’s the Poster Child for the GOP’s Estate Tax Repeal, But Her Sad Family Saga Doesn’t Add Up
Kristi Noem makes the case that the estate tax hurts farmers based on the tragic death of her father. Her story, however, does not line up with the tax code.
by Chuck Collins

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/11/shes-poster-child-gops-estate-tax-repeal-her-sad-family-saga-doesnt-add
–

Radical feminism is the only solution to men’s ongoing “sexual misconduct”
by Robert Jensen

*The backlash to #MeToo has begun to emerge, and will be normalized by the corpress (see this idiocy from AP https://tinyurl.com/yauv99rj).

There is a place to talk about “confusion”, but not presented in a context of conjuring the extreme to discredit the undeniable.

That is a time tested reactionary tactic that depends on a stacked deck

And it’s up to us to upend that house of cards.

http://www.feministcurrent.com/2017/12/10/radical-feminism-solution-mens-ongoing-sexual-misconduct
—

The U.S. Media Suffered Its Most Humiliating Debacle in Ages: Now Refuses All Transparency Over What Happened
by Glenn Greenwald

*Perhaps that should read

“Democracy Dies in Our Darkness”

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/189-more-blog-posts-from-glenn-greenwald/3408-the-us-media-suffered-its-most-humiliating-debacle-in-ages-now-refuses-all-transparency-over-what-happened
—

U.S. Right to Know
Did 24 Coke-Funded Studies on Childhood Obesity Fail to Disclose Coke’s Influence?

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/12/11/did-24-coke-funded-studies-childhood-obesity-fail-disclose-cokes-influence
—

The Real News Network
The Only Peace Process is Palestinian Freedom
The ongoing Palestinian protests over Jerusalem come on the 30th anniversary of the First Intifada and amid declarations that the “peace process” that followed it is dead. We speak to human rights attorney Noura Erakat.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20674:The-Only-Peace-Process-is-Palestinian-Freedom

Pressure Mounts On Doug Jones To Pull Off Upset in Alabama Senate Race
Democrats see hope in Alabama’s Senate race, which has become a high-pressure referendum on Moore’s alleged sexual misconduct
by Michael Sainato

*I’ll be glad if Jones wins

And I wish I could wager a hefty sum on that being pretty much the last time I’ll say that about anything to do with him.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20681:Pressure-Mounts-On-Doug-Jones-To-Pull-Off-Upset-in-Alabama-Senate-Race

Undoing the New Deal: Roosevelt Created A Social Safety Net, Not Socialism (Part 3)
Historian Peter Kuznick says the New Deal created necessary programs and regulations that mitigated the effects of the Great Depression, but he wouldn’t nationalize the banks or challenge private ownership

*FDR saved capitalism from itself, which is the whole purpose of “liberalism” – to act as a methadone for the exploitocracy’s addiction to greed, managing the disease but never curing it.

But a more useful way to view his actions is to see them as saving capitalism from communalism, or whatever term you care to use – from a society designed to guarantee that we all live a dignified existence.

Of course, a “liberal” would argue that that’s not possible

And proceed to do everything in their power to ensure that is the case.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20673:Undoing-the-New-Deal%3A-Roosevelt-Created-A-Social-Safety-Net%2C-Not-Socialism-%28pt3%29

A Chicago Alderman Introduced A Water Affordability Ordinance. Does Baltimore Need One Too?
Baltimore can get more revenue for new water infrastructure by charging what residents can afford to pay, says Mary Grant of Food and Water Watch

*I’m certainly far from an expert, but if we believe that healthcare should be a right, regardless of income, why shouldn’t the same be true for access to clean water?

Why isn’t water a service provided by the city, and funded by a truly progressive taxation of its residents, instead of through billing?

Is it that that would be a harder victory to win than bill affordability?

At least one inquiring mind would like to know.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20669:A-Chicago-Alderman-Introduced-A-Water-Affordability-Ordinance.-Does-Baltimore-Need-One-Too%3F

Palestinians Resist Israel and its US Enabler
As the Israeli crackdown on protests in the Occupied Territories turns deadly, human rights attorney Noura Erakat says that Trump’s decision on Jerusalem is only the latest US attack on Palestinian self-determination

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20670:Palestinians-Resist-Israel-and-its-US-Enabler

Coal, Lies and Renewable Energy, Australian Style
Is the new Tesla mega-battery for South Australia the game changer it’s made out to be? Tim Hollo, Executive Directer of The Green Institute, joins us from Canberra, Australia to separate fact from fiction in what he calls the ‘post-truth world’

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20665:Coal%2C-Lies-and-Renewable-Energy%2C-Australian-Style
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Bangladeshi Community in NYC

http://www.accuracy.org/release/bangladeshi-community-in-nyc
—

Democracy Now!
Farmworkers, Domestic Workers & Women in Low-Wage Jobs Face Challenges Reporting Sexual Assault

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/8/farmworkers_domestic_workers_in_women_in

Amid Worst Winter Wildfires in California History, Farmworkers Are Laboring in Hazardous Air

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/11/amid_worst_winter_wildfires_in_california

12.8

UN Experts Say Video Footage of Taser Use in US Jails Reveals Torture
“When you use a tool like this on an incapacitated person, to me it certainly amounts to cruel and degrading treatment,” said special rapporteur Nilz Melzer
by Andrea Germanos, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/08/un-experts-say-video-footage-taser-use-us-jails-reveals-torture

Trump-Endorsed Roy Moore Condemned for Reminiscing Fondly About ‘Great’ Era of US Slavery
Alabama Republican candidate Roy Moore claimed that “families were united” before slavery was outlawed
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Old times there are not forgotten

They’re run on

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/08/trump-endorsed-roy-moore-condemned-reminiscing-fondly-about-great-era-us-slavery
—

The Greenlining Institute
Consumer Groups Ask Ninth Circuit to Block FCC Broadband Order Downgrading Rural America

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/12/08/consumer-groups-ask-ninth-circuit-block-fcc-broadband-order-downgrading-rural

Jubilee USA Network
Archbishop and Evangelical Leader Tell Congress to Protect Puerto Rico in Tax Plans

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/12/08/archbishop-and-evangelical-leader-tell-congress-protect-puerto-rico-tax-plans
—

The Real News Network
Reporter’s Harassment Sparks a #MeToo Moment at WNYC
As Time names the women who publicly confronted sexual predators the magazine’s “Person of the Year,” we speak to journalist Suki Kim, who outed a longtime radio host at WNYC for targeting her and several of his female colleagues

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20653:Reporter%27s-Harassment-Sparks-a-%23MeToo-Moment-at-WNYC

Unlike US Embassy, Palestinians Will Not Be Moved
As protests erupt over the US recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital, Dr. Mustafa Barghouti says Trump and Netanyahu won’t succeed in displacing Palestinians from their homeland

*One state is the only just solution, but it was always dismissed as “beyond reality”.

Well, reality has caught up with it, and we’ll see if that will be recognized

But, as with South Africa, the end of apartheid would be only the beginning of a new phase in the struggle for justice.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20662:Unlike-US-Embassy%2C-Palestinians-Will-Not-Be-Moved

Greece Emerges from Economic Crisis with Increased Inequality
Greece is “coming out of the crisis with a more polarized society, with an opened gap between the rich and the poor,” says economic scholar John Milios

*Meet the new boss

Just a front for the old boss

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20638:Greece-Emerges-from-Economic-Crisis-with-Increased-Inequality

The Argument for Closing Low-Enrollment Schools is Wrong, Advocates Say
As Baltimore faces another round of school closings, parents and educators argue small schools are actually the best way to address entrenched poverty and other social ills

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20656:The-Argument-for-Closing-Low-Enrollment-Schools-is-Wrong%2C-Advocates-Say
—

FAIR
Normalizing Ethnic Supremacy in Israel/Palestine
by Jim Naureckas

https://fair.org/home/normalizing-ethnic-supremacy-in-israel-palestine
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Bethlehem and “the Altar of Imperial Politics”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/bethlehem-and-the-altar-of-imperial-politics

Is the Democratic Party Anti-Democratic?

*A dog and donkey show

http://www.accuracy.org/release/the-democratic-national-committees-unity-reform-commission-holds-its-final-meeting-in-washington-d-c-friday-and-saturday-some-of-the-proceedings-will-be-on-c-span
—

Democracy Now!
“The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump”: Psychiatrist Dr. Bandy Lee on Growing Mental Health Concerns

*”[T]o process that information to make sound, logical decisions based on facts and real consequences.”

Can that be said to be a hallmark of any president?

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/8/the_dangerous_case_of_donald_trump

“There are Thousands of Us”: Mental Health Professionals Warn of Trump’s Increasing Instability

*What does all this say about the grip on reality of those who blindly support him?

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/8/there_are_thousands_of_us_mental

12.7

The FCC Still Doesn’t Know How the Internet Works
They also don’t care
by Erica Portnoy and Jeremy Gillula

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/07/fcc-still-doesnt-know-how-internet-works
–

Both Parties Pushed Trump Toward Reckless Action on Jerusalem
Recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital further threatens Israeli-Palestinian peace, breaks international law, and risks a violent and destabilizing reaction in the region—which may be exactly the plan
by Stephen Zunes

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/07/both-parties-pushed-trump-toward-reckless-action-jerusalem
—

Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC)
Livestock Antibiotic Sales Finally Start Declining After Years on Rise
Decrease Follows Progress in the Chicken Industry, But Little Improvement Seen for Beef and Pork

*No “miracle drug” to abate avarice

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/12/07/livestock-antibiotic-sales-finally-start-declining-after-years-rise
—

The Real News Network
A Semblance of Justice For Walter Scott
Former South Carolina police officer was sentenced to 20 years in prison
by Michael Sainato

*Twenty years is something

But that something ain’t justice

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20663:A-Semblance-of-Justice-For-Walter-Scott

Children’s Health Insurance Program Expire Under GOP Tax Bill
Nine million children will go without health insurance under the new GOP tax bill, says Bill Black, white collar criminologist and former regulator

*How the Gingriches Stole Christmas

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20652:Children%27s-Health-Insurance-Program-Expire-Under-GOP-Tax-Bill

Is Saudi Arabia Destroying Yemen to Plunder It?
As Yemen enters a new era with the killing of longtime ex-president Ali Abdullah Saleh, professor and author Isa Blumi says financial motives help drive the Saudi-led war

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20637:Is-Saudi-Arabia-Destroying-Yemen-to-Plunder-It%3F

Bankrupt Greece Becomes a Major Military Spender and “Sales Agent” for NATO
Costas Isychos, the former Deputy Defence Minister of Greece, discusses the Syriza government’s policy of expanding NATO’s military might

*Another “shining light” proves no more than an illusive flicker

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20624:Bankrupt-Greece-Becomes-a-Major-Military-Spender-and-%22Sales-Agent%22-for-NATO

12.6

“The Silence Breakers”—TIME’s Person of the Year Captures Power of #MeToo
“This is for every woman who came forward. This is for every woman who was brave enough to say #MeToo.”
by Andrea Germanos, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Cooptation always commences with compliments

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/06/silence-breakers-times-person-year-captures-power-metoo
—

#MeToo Solidarity: Sexual Harassment is About Labor Too
Union women, too, can demand that their organizations lead the nation’s response on sexual harassment; after all, more than half of the nation’s union members will soon be women
by Lane Windham

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/06/metoo-solidarity-sexual-harassment-about-labor-too
—

Amnesty International
UN Committee Tells Cameroon To Put An End To Torture By Security Forces In The Fight Against Boko Haram

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/12/06/un-committee-tells-cameroon-put-end-torture-security-forces-fight-against-boko

Food & Water Watch
Advocacy Group Calls For Ban On Brazilian Beef Imports, Citing Countless Health and Safety Deficiencies Over Fifteen Years

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/12/06/advocacy-group-calls-ban-brazilian-beef-imports-citing-countless-health-and
—

The Real News Network
Trump’s Jerusalem Embassy Move Was Long in the Works
President Trump will recognize Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and move the American embassy there. Ali Abunimah of the Electronic Intifada says years of US policy set the stage.

*”Peace” at any price the Palestinians can be forced to pay

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20639:Trump%27s-Jerusalem-Embassy-Move-Was-Long-in-the-Works

GOP Tax Bill: The Great American Heist
The ‘insane and opaque’ tax bill had no hearings, no independent experts, only lobbyists informed this bill. It will blow up the deficit and gut social programs, explains economist and white collar criminologist, Bill Black

*And like every other abomination (other than of the imperialist ilk, which they adore), the corpress will wring their hands, before proceeding to normalize it onto the American political landscape.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20632:GOP-Tax-Bill%3A-The-Great-American-Heist

Trump Faces a Fight over Downsizing National Monuments
President Trump is flouting the law to shrink the Bears Ears National Monument and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah to open up drilling, mining, and fracking, but indigenous and environmental groups are pushing back

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20643:Trump-Faces-a-Fight-over-Downsizing-National-Monuments
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Leading Russia Analyst in D.C.

http://www.accuracy.org/release/leading-russia-analyst-in-d-c

Why is Israelgate Being Downplayed?

*Well, they’re an ally

Which begs the questions as to just why they are

http://www.accuracy.org/release/why-is-israelgate-being-downplayed
—

FAIR
Media Downplay Class Warfare as ‘GOP Victory’
by Ben Norton

*I wouldn’t wait on the sidebar that breaks down just how much each media corp makes out of this mishegoss.

https://fair.org/home/media-gop-tax-bill-class-warfare-rich

‘A Massive Blow to Social Movements if Our Voices Are Able to Be Blocked’
CounterSpin interview with Erin Shields on net neutrality repeal
by Janine Jackson

https://fair.org/home/a-massive-blow-to-social-movements-if-our-voices-are-able-to-be-blocked
—

Democracy Now!
Daniel Ellsberg Reveals He was a Nuclear War Planner, Warns of Nuclear Winter & Global Starvation

*We wonder if there’s intelligent life on other planets

If there is, they have to be wondering the same of us

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/6/doomsday_machine_daniel_ellsberg_reveals_he

12.5

‘Cowardly’ and ‘Shameful’: Bowing to Right-Wing Smear Campaign, MSNBC Fires Sam Seder
“MSNBC just allowed the lies of a white nationalist Pizza-Gate bottom feeder to bring him down. It’s…2017 in a nutshell.”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*They must’ve discovered his affinity for borscht

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/05/cowardly-and-shameful-bowing-right-wing-smear-campaign-msnbc-fires-sam-seder
—

Let Them Eat Wedding Cake
A Colorado baker’s bid to discriminate against gay couples sets a precedent that would harm both small businesses and civil rights. Independent business advocates arguing for enforcement of public accommodation laws make their case in a dispute that will be argued before the Supreme Court today.
by Jeff Milchen

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/05/let-them-eat-wedding-cake
–

Why Democrats Don’t Want to Talk about Flynn’s First Meeting with the Russians
How the Democrats aided Michael Flynn’s involvement in Israeli’s illegal settlements
by Stephen Zunes

*Silencing the sound and fury

Signifying “Nothing to see here”

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/05/why-democrats-dont-want-talk-about-flynns-first-meeting-russians
–

Is Big Food’s Lobbying Arm on the Brink of Extinction?
Consumers can take satisfaction in the fact that they’ve played a role in what some say is the diminishing power of the GMA over Washington policy
by Katherine Paul

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/05/big-foods-lobbying-arm-brink-extinction
—

Amnesty International
UN: China Fails To Scupper Resolution On Myanmar’s Persecution Of Rohingya

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/12/05/un-china-fails-scupper-resolution-myanmars-persecution-rohingya
—

The Real News Network
Trump’s Friends Get Tax Cuts, His Base Gets Bigotry
As President Trump re-tweets an anti-Muslim British group, historian and professor Gerald Horne of the University of Houston says Trump is following through on the bigotry he campaigned on

*I’d call it “divide and conquer”, but if it was never united …

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20601:Trump%27s-Friends-Get-Tax-Cuts%2C-His-Base-Gets-Bigotry

What Does Saleh’s Killing Mean for Yemen?
Yemen’s longtime ex-president Ali Abdullah Saleh has been killed by his former allies, the Houthi rebels. We talk with Dr. Sheila Carapico of the University of Richmond

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20631:What-Does-Saleh%27s-Killing-Mean-for-Yemen%3F
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Is Flynn/Kushner Actually IsraelGate?

*Something tells me there won’t be much preachifying on this from the Pelosi/Schumer pulpit

http://www.accuracy.org/release/is-flynnkushner-actually-israelgate
—

FAIR
Headlines Ignore the Abuse Reports That Make Moore Endorsement Newsworthy
by Adam Johnson

*Something tells me that if an “official enemy” like Maduro were accused of such, there’d be no hesitancy extant.

Bin Salman is another story.

https://fair.org/home/headlines-ignore-the-abuse-reports-that-make-moore-endorsement-newsworthy
—

Democracy Now!
ACLU Vows to Keep Fighting as Supreme Court Allows Trump’s Mostly Muslim Travel Ban to Take Effect

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/5/aclu_vows_to_keep_fighting_as

Honduran Riot Police Refuse to Carry Out Crackdown on Opposition Protests After “Illegal” Election

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/5/honduran_riot_police_refuse_to_carry

12.4

The Art of Keeping Guantánamo Open
What the Paintings by Its Prisoners Tell Us About Our Humanity and Theirs
by Erin L. Thompson

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/04/art-keeping-guantanamo-open
–

A Women’s Revolt That Targets Far More Than Sexual Abuse
There is a genuine uprising, and no one can find the leader to shut it down
by Chris Hedges

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/04/womens-revolt-targets-far-more-sexual-abuse
–

Chile’s Political System Shaken by Rise of New Anti-Neoliberal Left
by the Socialist Project

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/364-socialist-project/3402-chiles-political-system-shaken-by-rise-of-new-anti-neoliberal-left
–

Chicago Democrats: “Embarrassment of Riches” or War?
by Lenny Brody​

*Sanders knows what he’s doing

And it’s long past time for us to suss it, as well.

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/53-lenny-brody/3401-chicago-democrats-qembarrassment-of-richesq-or-war
—

The Real News Network
Robert Wright on Mindfulness, Buddhism, and Overcoming Delusions
In part one of our interview, bestselling author Robert Wright discusses his new book “Why Buddhism Is True: The Science and Philosophy of Meditation and Enlightenment.” Wright argues that mindfulness can help overcome constraints on the human mind imposed by natural selection, allowing us to see the world more clearly

*The subject may seem incongruent with things “political”, but if we’re to affect those things effectively, we have to utilize the faculties of our minds to their fullest, don’t we?

I have over sixty years of programming to overcome, but I’ve been making halting progress over the last couple of years, and a somewhat calmer mind has allowed me to understand shit better, and hopefully express that understanding better.

One analogy (Metaphor? Whatever … ) that might be helpful is to think of anxiety, fear, stress, feelings of inadequacy et alia as junk food for your brain. I’ve been more successful at cleaning up my physical diet than my mental and emotional ones, but just as I can see the benefits of ridding crap from my digestive system, and ingesting healthful food, so too does an increase in mindfulness work to detox our psychological landscape.

Perhaps the most pernicious poison we ingest is a lack of acceptance of who we are at present. That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t strive to improve ourselves as human beings (and we always have room to improve), but that we stop beating up on ourselves for our “failures”.

We need to acknowledge our faults, to see them clearly, in order to transcend them. Obsessing on them only obstructs that process.

We are a work in progress

And progress is only made in the present

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20597:Robert-Wright-on-Mindfulness%2C-Buddhism%2C-and-Overcoming-Delusions

Democracy in Crisis: Project Falsitas
D.C. prosecutors introduce James O’Keefe’s sting video in the case against inauguration protesters just as the Washington Post reminds us again just how shady he is
by Baynard Woods

*Slimeballs playing hardball

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20625:Democracy-in-Crisis%3A-Project-Falsitas

Argentine Government Bars Major NGO Representatives from WTO Meeting
In an unprecedented move that violates World Trade Organization rules, Argentina revoked accreditations of representatives of 20 NGOs, preventing them from attending the 11th WTO Meeting in Buenos Aires next week. Deborah James of CEPR explains the significance of this decision

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20619:Argentine-Government-Bars-Major-NGO-Representatives-from-WTO-Meeting

Should NATO Answer for Libya’s Slave Trade?
CNN has revealed that African migrants are being sold at slave auctions in Libya for as little as $400. As the UN weighs sanctions, professor and author Horace Campbell says the NATO powers who tore Libya apart should own up to their responsibility

*Crocodile tears from the reptiles responsible

Campbell makes a vital point regarding diminishing extremism by improving the conditions and protecting the rights of desperate people. Nations, from the US to Russia, who evince concern about “terrorism”, never take this route, for that boogeyman allows them to boogie across the geopolitical dance floor.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20594:Should-NATO-Answer-for-Libya%27s-Slave-Trade%3F

GOP Tax Bill is Even Worse Than We Think
The secretive Senate Republican tax bill is one of the largest wealth transfers to elites in US history, and economist James Henry says its damage to lower-income earners will likely be even worse than thought once its full contents are known

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20620:GOP-Tax-Bill-is-Even-Worse-Than-We-Think

Flynn Plea Shows Collusion With… Israel?
Michael Flynn’s guilty plea to lying to the FBI falls short on Russia “collusion” but points to the Trump administration acting on Israel’s behalf, says author and journalist Max Blumenthal

*I appreciate Blumenthal’s work debunking the Russia to Judgement, but when he or anyone else frames Russian involvement in Syria as “God’s work”, I only see corpses and crumbled cities.

Russia is there to protect its assets and to aid an ally in a region in which it has little influence. It, along with every other actor in this horror movie, has committed war crimes, making the term “deescalation” one dripping in irony.

You don’t to believe every piece of propaganda pimped by the corpress about Syrian and Russian actions to suss that blood is on all hands here.

As with so many other situations, opposing what the US does doesn’t absolve its targets of their own iniquities, and ignoring them only lessens our credibility to call the lie on the narrative of American benevolence.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20622:Flynn-Plea-Shows-Collusion-With…-Israel%3F

Real Media: Doctors Against Diesel
Co-founder of Doctors Against Diesel Chris Griffiths on why he has expanded his work from research to lobbying and protesting about what he sees as a medical emergency in our cities

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20588:Real-Media%3A-Doctors-Against-Diesel
—

Petition update
Consumers for Auto Reliability and Safety
Auto industry: Driving your own car should be illegal, unless safety recall repairs are done

https://www.change.org/p/2059055/u/22097544
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Tax “Reform”: An Attack on Work

http://www.accuracy.org/release/tax-reform-an-attack-on-work

Honduras Coup? Charges of Election Rigging Escalating into Curfew, Attacks on Pro-Democracy Activists

http://www.accuracy.org/release/honduras-coup-charges-of-election-rigging-escalating-into-curfew-attacks-on-pro-democracy-activists
—

Democracy Now!
Rep. Keith Ellison Says Franken & Conyers Should “Examine Their Conscience” over Sexual Harassment

*Another sort of “resistance”

To saying anything that hasn’t been carefully calibrated

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/4/rep_keith_ellison_says_franken_conyers

Honduras: Protesters Defy Military Crackdown and Flood the Streets to Protest Alleged Vote-Rigging

*Will this be an election outcome Madame Mayhem can celebrate?

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/4/honduras_protesters_defy_military_crackdown_and

12.1

Trump DoD Scraps Plan to Ban Cluster Bombs That Maim Children and Civilians Worldwide
“This is a profoundly retrograde step that puts the U.S. way out of line with the international consensus”
by Andrea Germanos, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/12/01/trump-dod-scraps-plan-ban-cluster-bombs-maim-children-and-civilians-worldwide
—

Help the Women of Walmart Today
Being a Walmart worker means being expected to put up with poverty pay, inflexible schedules, and disrespect from bosses
by Tiffaney Meredith

*The Low Life Leader ™ hides behind hip

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/12/01/help-women-walmart-today
—

The Real News Network
Real Media: Worker Union Takes Fight to Universities
The Independent Workers Union of Great Britain launched a landmark legal case to bring collective bargaining rights to outsourced workers at the University of London. If they win, the case will set a historic precedent that could aid zero-hours and precarious workers all around the country

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20587:Real-Media%3A-Worker-Union-Takes-Fight-to-Universities

Trump Tax Plan Would Slash Charitable Giving by Almost 40%
According to some estimates, there would be between $13-$95B less in charitable giving by individuals, because raising the individual deduction removes the tax incentive to give, says David Callahan, founder and editor of Inside Philanthropy

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20603:Trump-Tax-Plan-Would-Slash-Charitable-Giving-by-Almost-40%25

Protests Erupt as Honduras Presidential Election Results Reversed
The country’s electoral authority reversed the initial presidential election results, now giving the conservative incumbent a lead in the vote count. Tensions are mounting as protesters clash with the police. Heather Gies reports from Tegucigalpa, Honduras

*US sanctions forthcoming

To be delivered on the backs of flying pigs

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20611:Protests-Erupt-as-Honduras-Presidential-Election-Results-Reversed
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
“Not Just Russia” — Flynn’s Lie about Israel

*Don’t expect Dems to make a stink about this, since the stench of Palestinian corpses envelops them as much as their “rivals”.

http://www.accuracy.org/release/not-just-russia-flynns-lie-about-israel
—

Democracy Now!
Is Trump Plan to Replace Rex Tillerson a Push for More U.S. Aggression Toward Iran, North Korea?

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/1/is_trump_plan_to_replace_rex

GOP Quietly Moves to Open Arctic Refuge to Oil & Gas Drilling While Earth Undergoes 6th Extinction

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/1/gop_quietly_moves_to_open_arctic

New Investigation Finds U.S. Special Forces Massacred Somali Civilians & Orchestrated a Cover-Up

*It evinces an incredible naïveté on Goldbaum’s part that she should be shocked by any of this, don’t you think?

And her description of US personnel being “misled” fails the laugh test, when the reality is that they didn’t give a shit whom they killed.

“Let their own god sort ’em out” is SOP for SOFs, and how she can’t fathom that, after what she’s uncovered, is beyond me.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/12/1/new_investigation_finds_us_special_forces

November 2017

 

11.30

McCain Drops ‘Maverick’ Facade to Deliver Massive Gift to Rich, Strip Healthcare from Millions
Arizona senator is a “maverick, except when Wall Street calls”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/30/mccain-drops-maverick-facade-deliver-massive-gift-rich-strip-healthcare-millions
—

Saudi Arabia’s Lebanon gamble may pay off
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3397-saudi-arabias-lebanon-gamble-may-pay-off
–

Gulf Crisis Creates Opportunity for Asian Nations
The rift between the Gulf countries and Qatar has created a space for Asian countries to step in to engage with the small peninsular state
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3394-gulf-crisis-creates-opportunity-for-asian-nations
–

An Escalating Afghan Crisis of ‘Profit’ Over ‘Life’
by Dr. Hakim Young

http://truth-out.org/buzzflash/commentary/an-escalating-afghan-crisis-of-profit-over-life
—

The Real News Network
Police Rising
Detective Dawnyell Taylor and the missing center of HBO’s “Baltimore RIsing”
by Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20608:Police-Rising
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Did Trump Greenlight Neoconservative Takeover Of State Dept. And CIA?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/did-trump-greenlight-neoconservative-takeover-of-state-dept-and-cia

Are Sexual Predators Enabled by Secrecy Agreements?

*The shadows silence the screams

http://www.accuracy.org/release/are-sexual-predators-enabled-by-secrecy-agreements
—

FAIR
NYT Corrects Its Ed Herman Obit
by Jim Naureckas

http://fair.org/home/nyt-corrects-its-ed-herman-obi

11.29

Former KKK Leader David Duke Says ‘Thank God for Trump’ After President Shares Anti-Muslim Tweets From UK
“Trump has legitimized the far right in his own country, now he’s trying to do it in ours”
by Andrea Germanos, staff writer
Common Dreams

*The most baleful of bird calls from Citizen KKKane

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/29/former-kkk-leader-david-duke-says-thank-god-trump-after-president-shares-anti-muslim
—

Inside the Pity-Our-Farmers Tax ‘Reform’ Scam
No farm families, repeat no farm families, are losing their family farms to the federal estate tax
by Bob Lord

*Plenty of manure fertilizing this faux family farm defense

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/29/inside-pity-our-farmers-tax-reform-scam
—

Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law
Federal Judge In Arkansas Dismisses Case Brought By Private Probation Company
Civil Rights Advocates Applaud Decision, Call For An End To Privatization Of The Criminal Justice System And Termination Of Policies That Harm Racial Minorities

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/11/29/federal-judge-arkansas-dismisses-case-brought-private-probation-company
—

The Real News Network
Cities Offer Amazon Dangerous Incentives
Amazon has received 238 bids from North American cities vying to host its new headquarters, and some are offering the company extreme incentives that undermine democracy, says economist Dean Baker

*Whatever Cali gummint’s “relatively progressive” on

It ain’t got a goddamn thing to do with downsizing Silicon Valley’s dominion, do it?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20595:Cities-Offer-Amazon-Dangerous-Incentives

Trump Plans to Move US Embassy to Jerusalem
Max Blumenthal and Paul Jay on Mike Pence’s announcement that Donald Trump is actively planning to move the US embassy in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, going against decades of US policy

*Much more than the topic listed – an overview of developments in the region, and their possible consequences

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20580:Trump-Plans-to-Move-US-Embassy-to-Jerusalem

CNN Crusades Against Slave Trade in Libya, but Knew About It for Years
U.S. corporate media “does not report on the slaughter and the persecution of people by these U.S.-backed governments until most of them are dead,” says Black Agenda Report’s Glen Ford

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20571:CNN-Crusades-Against-Slave-Trade-in-Libya%2C-but-Knew-About-It-for-Years

Real Media: Ineos Vs. The People
Talk Fracking founder, Joe Corre, talks about challenging a wide-ranging legal injunction brought by the huge chemical company, Ineos, in order to prevent protest and comment on their fracking activities across England

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20585:Real-Media%3A-Ineos-Vs.-The-People
—

FAIR
Backlash Against Russian ‘Fake News’ Is Shutting Down Debate for Real
by Robin Andersen

http://fair.org/home/backlash-against-russian-fake-news-is-shutting-down-debate-for-real
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
GOP’s “Tax Cut Bonanza is a Major Attack on Medicare”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/gops-tax-cut-bonanza-is-a-major-attack-on-medicare

11.28

Koch Latino Front Group Instructs Arizona Moms About School Vouchers
Two of the richest men in the world believe that transforming the public school system into for-profit money making operations is the “choice” Arizona moms should be making
by Mary Bottari

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/28/koch-latino-front-group-instructs-arizona-moms-about-school-vouchers
—

The Real News Network
Cyntoia Brown and The Flawed Juvenile Criminal System
In an interview, documentary filmmaker Daniel Birman discusses his work following Cyntoia Brown through the criminal justice system since she was arrested
by Michael Sainato

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20579:Cyntoia-Brown-and-The-Flawed-Juvenile-Criminal-System

Trump’s Coup on Consumer Protection
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau is in limbo as two people claim to be its new acting director. The outgoing head tapped Leandra English as his successor, but Donald Trump then appointed Mick Mulvaney, who has called the CFPB a “sick, sad” joke

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20572:Trump%27s-Coup-on-Consumer-Protection

Opposition Wins Honduras Presidential Race, But Problems Lie Ahead
Honduras’ incumbent President Hernandez has not conceded the election, and President-elect Salvador Nasralla faces many obstacles implementing a left-of-center and anti-corruption agenda, as his supporters would like. Prof. Adrienne Pine of American University explains

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20573:Opposition-Wins-Honduras-Presidential-Race%2C-But-Problems-Lie-Ahead
—

FAIR
Media Erase NATO Role in Bringing Slave Markets to Libya
by Ben Norton

*”Bringing light to the world”

By setting it aflame

http://fair.org/home/media-nato-regime-change-war-libya-slave-markets
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Tax Plan: Goldman Always Wins

http://www.accuracy.org/release/tax-plan-goldman-always-wins
—

Democracy Now!
As Accusations Stack Up, A Look at the Onerous Process of Reporting Sexual Abuse on Capitol Hill

*I’d like to say it’s amusing to watch these bastards calculate how to manage this to protect their political asses

But there’s nothing in the least bit humorous about it, is there?

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/28/as_accusations_stack_up_a_look

Floating Guantánamos: How the Coast Guard Uses Indefinite Detention to Wage “War on Drugs” at Sea

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/28/floating_guantanamos_how_the_coast_guard

11.27

How Can We Combat Wage Theft And Protect Immigrant Workers?
Every year, millions of workers suffer from wage theft when employers or companies do not pay them what they are owed
by Rachel Deutsch

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/27/how-can-we-combat-wage-theft-and-protect-immigrant-workers
—

The New York Immigration Coalition
NYIC Submits FOIA For Operation Matador
LI Law Enforcement Program Appears to Profile Immigrants

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/11/27/nyic-submits-foia-operation-matador

Friends of the Earth
EU Fails To Seize Opportunity To End Glyphosate

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/11/27/eu-fails-seize-opportunity-end-glyphosate
—

The Real News Network
Resolution Pushed For Democrats to Return Money From Wealthy Donor Involved In Death of Black Male Escort
California Democratic Party African-American Caucus is pushing for the party to adopt a resolution to return donations from wealthy donor after black male escort died in his home from a drug overdose
by Michael Sainato

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20570:Resolution-Pushed-For-Democrats-to-Return-Money-From-Wealthy-Donor-Involved-In-Death-of-Black-Male-E

Wages of Rebellion: The Moral Imperative of Revolt – Chris Hedges on RAI (3/3)
On Reality Asserts Itself, Chris Hedges and Paul Jay discuss the role of violence in revolution and the Bernie Sanders campaign

*I can’t see mentioning persons like Sanders, Nader and Kucinich in the same breath as “revolution”. They have no transformative vision, futilely seeking to fashion chicken salad out of the chicken shit of capitalism.

If they’re the artists of the possible, then life as we know it will no longer be.

Our only hope exists in solidarity among the exploited, which is goddamn hard to do when you’re valuing some lives over others. Folks don’t cotton to being told “pragmatism” demands they suffer and die.

The same applies to the use of force. We have a right to defend ourselves and others. That force has to be principled and disciplined to be both effective and morally valid, but I can’t tell someone to not fight back when their body and their breath are on the line.

What I believe is vital is an articulation of just why those means are necessary. There is no glory in violence. Killing the most vile of our oppressors should bring no joy for its own sake. It’s a means to an end, and that end should always be placed in the context of a defense of our dignity, our right to live without fear and misery.

That fealty to principle could well help precipitate what Hedges speaks to regarding the loss of will to defend the exploitocracy. Knowing that they would be treated humanely, that their humanity would be respected, should they lay down their arms may have a salient effect on the Praetoriani.

Nothing is certain, except the abyss, should we continue to delude ourselves that there’s a way to drain the swamp while swimming around in it.

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=14200

How Neoliberal Law Enforcement Policies Broke Black Communities by Targeting Women
In an interview with Andrea Ritchie, author of “Invisible No More”, she explains how police strategies like ‘zero tolerance’ implemented by purportedly liberal states have wreaked havoc on the lives of black women

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20565:How-Neoliberal-Law-Enforcement-Policies-Broke-Black-Communities-by-Targeting-Women

Empire Files: What the Russian Revolution Proved Possible
Nov. 7, 2017 marks the 100th anniversary of the seizure of power by workers and peasants in the Russian Revolution, regarded as the most world-altering event in the history of civilization. Abby Martin talks to Brian Becker, socialist organizer and co-author of the book “Storming the Gates: How the Russian Revolution Changed the World.”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20407:Empire-Files%3A-What-the-Russian-Revolution-Proved-Possible

Europe’s White Supremacists Have Powerful Allies
After a massive neo-fascist march in Poland and new reports of neo-Nazi influence in Ukraine, Lev Golinkin, an author who fled then-Soviet Ukraine as a child, says both the US and Russia have troubling ties to Europe’s far-right

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20525:Europe%27s-White-Supremacists-Have-Powerful-Allies
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Can Post-Coup Honduras Have a Fair Election?

*Another of Madame Mayhem’s “signal foreign policy accomplishments”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/can-post-coup-honduras-have-a-fair-election-interviews-available
—

FAIR
Without Public Editor, NYT Ducks and Dismisses Criticism of Its Sympathetic Nazi Profile
by Reed Richardson

*Funny how the humanizing never extends to those who truly stand for humanity, and not simply pose as its defenders

And I don’t view that as being “lazy” or “blind”.

http://fair.org/home/without-public-editor-nyt-ducks-and-dismisses-criticism-of-its-sympathetic-nazi-profile

NYT’s Obit for Ed Herman Requires a Correction
by Jim Naureckas

http://fair.org/home/nyts-obit-for-ed-herman-requires-a-correction
—

Democracy Now!
Sharif Abdel Kouddous: Mosque Attack Comes As Egypt Faces “Wave of Repression” on Political Freedoms

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/27/sharif_abdel_kouddous_mosque_attack_comes

11.24

In Puerto Rico, the ‘Natural Disaster’ Is the US Government
Conscious of its own role in creating “disasters,” the U.S. must also tailor aid to local conditions, and to respond to an injured community with an appreciation of its history and foreseeable future
by Yxta Maya Murray

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/24/puerto-rico-natural-disaster-us-government
–

Averting the Apocalypse: Lessons from Costa Rica
“If we want to have any hope of averting catastrophe, we’re going to have to do something about our addiction to growth”
by Jason Hickel

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/24/averting-apocalypse-lessons-costa-rica
–

As Flynn Cuts Off WH, Top 4 Alleged Crimes He Could Sink Trump With
“Remember, it isn’t the crime that usually gets them but the cover-up”
by Juan Cole

*The rat deserts

But is the ship sinking?

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/24/flynn-cuts-wh-top-4-alleged-crimes-he-could-sink-trump
—

FAIR
Trump Administration Plays Media Like Fiddle on Iran/HBO Hacking Story
by Adam Johnson

*Bileful bitumen flowing through the hypeline from power to press

http://fair.org/home/trump-administration-plays-media-like-fiddle-on-iran-hbo-hacking-story
—

Petition
Keep the teacher’s tax deduction in our federal taxes
by Sarah Friedman

https://www.change.org/p/president-of-the-united-states-keep-the-teacher-s-tax-deduction-in-our-federal-taxes

11.23

The ‘Opposite’ of Leadership: Anita Hill Says Joe Biden Apology Not Good Enough
Hill, who famously testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee that Clarence Thomas sexually harassed her, said the former vice president and then-committee chair should have shown leadership but “did just the opposite”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Pilate on the Potomac

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/23/opposite-leadership-anita-hill-says-joe-biden-apology-not-good-enough

Federal Judge Strikes Down Texas Anti-Choice Law That Critics Warned Endangered Women
“The court’s decision once again makes clear that politicians cannot force their way into private medical decisions that should stay between patients and physicians. Access to vital reproductive health services should not depend on a woman’s zip code.”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/23/federal-judge-strikes-down-texas-anti-choice-law-critics-warned-endangered-women
—

Every Friday Is Black Friday: Why Our Addiction to Consumption and Growth Is Killing Us
Our behaviour within the system cannot change the outcomes of the system. It is the system itself that needs to change
by George Monbiot

*The bigger we are

The harder we fall

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/23/every-friday-black-friday-why-our-addiction-consumption-and-growth-killing-us
–

Thanksgiving Is a Tradition. It’s Also a Lie
Sure, it’s a tradition. So is the Confederate flag.
by Tommy Orange

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/23/thanksgiving-tradition-its-also-lie
–

Commercial terms call into question China’s win-win Belt and Road initiative
by James M. Dorsey

*Playing hard ball with soft power

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3389-commercial-terms-call-into-question-chinas-win-win-belt-and-road-initiative
–

Web of secret money hides one mega-donor funding conservative court
by Robert Maguire

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/712-robert-maguire/3390-web-of-secret-money-hides-one-mega-donor-funding-conservative-court
—

The Real News Network
Trump’s FCC Goes to War on Net Neutrality
A new plan unveiled by Federal Communications Commission chair Ajit Pai would repeal hard-fought net neutrality rules that uphold equal internet access. Can Pai’s effort be stopped?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20534:Trump%27s-FCC-Goes-to-War-on-Net-Neutrality

After Collapse of Coalition Talks, What’s Next for Germany?
“The problem is that many people in Germany are really sick of all the old parties; they don’t believe any of them, they’re unhappy and dissatisfied,” says author and journalist Victor Grossman

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20532:After-Collapse-of-Coalition-Talks%2C-What%27s-Next-for-Germany%3F

Gobble, Gobble: Investigation Reveals Cannibalism, Hepatitis at Major Turkey Supplier Turkey Supplier
Direct Action Everywhere released findings of abhorrent conditions at an industrial farm that supplies of one of the country’s largest turkey sellers
by Michael Sainato and Chelsea Skojec

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20537:Gobble%2C-Gobble%3A-Investigation-Reveals-Cannibalism%2C-Hepatitis-at-Major-Turkey-SupplierTurkey-Supp

What Happened To Farm Workers Unionization In California
Frank Bardacke: Farm workers unions became dependent on Democratic Party politics

*A cautionary tale about taking a cautious (and ultimately corrupting) route to political power

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:7628:What-Happened-To-Farm-Workers-Unionization-In-California

11.22

Naomi Klein: Trump’s Treatment of Haitians Portends Brutal Future for World’s Climate Refugees
“This isn’t only about Trump’s antipathy toward non-white immigrants,” she writes. “We may also be witnessing a particularly brutal form of climate change adaptation.”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/22/naomi-klein-trumps-treatment-haitians-portends-brutal-future-worlds-climate-refugees

FCC Under Fire for Ignoring ‘Massive Scheme to Corrupt’ Net Neutrality Comment Process
Amid widespread outrage over the agency’s proposed internet rule changes, NY Attorney General Eric Schneiderman’s says chairman has refused to cooperate with probe into fake posts
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/22/fcc-under-fire-ignoring-massive-scheme-corrupt-net-neutrality-comment-process

To Stop Keystone XL, 8,000 People in Just 24 Hours Make ‘Promise to Protect’
“TransCanada has many hurdles still ahead on Keystone XL, and if they ever run out, thousands of people have promised to be the biggest one”
by Jon Queally, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/22/stop-keystone-xl-8000-people-just-24-hours-make-promise-protect
—

‘Valve-Turners’ Putting Lives On the Line For Our Climate Emergency
“Our lives are at stake. But people won’t understand that until some of us demonstrate we’re indeed fighting for our lives”
by Leonard Higgins

*The necessity of defense of the planet

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/22/valve-turners-putting-lives-line-our-climate-emergency
–

With Few Watching, Republicans Have Put in Place New Poll Tax to Disenfranchise Voters
Preventing people from voting because they owe legal fees or court fines muzzle low-income Americans at a time in our nation’s history when the rich have more political power than ever
by Robert Reich

*Priced out of the polling booth

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/22/few-watching-republicans-have-put-place-new-poll-tax-disenfranchise-voters
—

The Real News Network
Standing Rock Water Protectors Deliver Petition to Drop Remaining NoDAPL Charges
Standing Rock leaders delivered a petition of 55,000 signatures to the Morton County State Attorney Office this week
by Michael Sainato

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20528:Standing-Rock-Water-Protectors-Deliver-Petition-to-Drop-Remaining-NoDAPL-Charges

J20 Defendant’s Diary: Day 1
On November 20, prosecutors and defense made opening remarks; manager of Au Bon Pain, bike cop testify
by Elizabeth Lagesse

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=20529

Activists Crash Press Conference to Challenge Trudeau on Climate Policy
Former Trudeau supporters Hayley Zacks and Jake Hubley were arrested after confronting Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about his support of the Alberta tar sands and approval of the Kinder Morgan pipeline expansion, despite posturing as a ‘climate crusader’

*”Liberal” limberness

Patting you on the head

While kicking you in the crotch

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20521:Activists-Crash-Press-Conference-to-Challenge-Trudeau-on-Climate-Policy

Trump Raises Fears About Nukes, But US Anti-War Movement Is Lacking
‘It’s not that Americans are less intelligent than other people, it’s that the U.S. imperial system is accepted by most Americans without them really thinking about the nature of that system,’ says Black Agenda Report’s Glen Ford

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20511:Trump-Raises-Fears-About-Nukes%2C-But-US-Anti-War-Movement-Is-Lacking

Activists Rally for $12M Youth Fund for Black-Led Groups Fighting Inequity
At a time of record violence, the proposal would award millions annually to community-led organizations working to uplift Baltimore youth and address the root causes of violence

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20526:Activists-Rally-for-%2412M-Youth-Fund-for-Black-Led-Groups-Fighting-Inequity
—

Democracy Now!
Expert: President Trump Calling His Accusers “Liars” Confirms Women’s Fears of Not Being Believed

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/22/expert_president_trump_calling_his_accusers

Rebecca Solnit: Ending Sexual Harassment Means Changing Masculinity & Undermining Misogynist Culture

*”Run by women” would be better than men, assuredly, but a focus on gender leads us to the likes of Madame Mayhem and ilk, doesn’t it?

We need women, men and every other permutation who “get it”

And are determined to change “it”.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/22/rebecca_solnit_ending_sexual_harassment_means

Haitians Denied Protected Status Face Deportation to “Nation in Turmoil” After Earthquake, Hurricane

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/22/haitians_denied_protected_status_face_deportation

11.21

‘Women Are Very Special,’ Says Trump, But Roy Moore ‘Totally Denies It’ and ‘We Don’t Need a Liberal Person in There’
Many viewed the president’s comments as an endorsement of a candidate who has been accused by nearly ten women of sexual misconduct
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Predators of a feather stick together

And what’s he wearing … his “breast cancer” tie?

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/21/women-are-very-special-says-trump-roy-moore-totally-denies-it-and-we-dont-need

Out of Spotlight and Across Industries, Surveys Reveal Pervasive Sexual Harassment of Women
National surveys show more than a third of women across America are abused by bosses, colleagues, and customers while on the job
by Common Dreams staff

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/21/out-spotlight-and-across-industries-surveys-reveal-pervasive-sexual-harassment-women

New Report Details ’13 Terrible Things’ About Senate GOP Tax Plan
Americans for Tax Fairness warns that the bill gives most of the tax cuts to the richest 1%, makes 82 million middle-class families pay more in taxes, and endangers funding for public services
by Common Dreams staff

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/21/new-report-details-13-terrible-things-about-senate-gop-tax-plan

Amid Russian Denials, Greenpeace Demands Probe into Source of Nuclear Radiation
Kremlin admits detecting increased radioactivity but denies that Mayak plant, the scene of earlier disaster, is the source
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Renewable ravagement

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/21/amid-russian-denials-greenpeace-demands-probe-source-nuclear-radiation

Trump’s “Frightening” Pick for Top Census Job Thinks “Competitive Elections Are Bad for America”
Thomas Brunell is a political science professor with no government experience, and would politicize the agency tasked with counting every resident of the U.S.
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Count on connivance

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/21/trumps-frightening-pick-top-census-job-thinks-competitive-elections-are-bad-america
—

In America and Around the World, the Poor Will Pay for the GOP Tax Plan
A large cut in corporate rate in the U.S. would be perceived internationally as a full throttle acceleration of the global race to the bottom on corporate taxation
by Léonce Ndikumana

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/21/america-and-around-world-poor-will-pay-gop-tax-plan
–

What You Need to Know About the Trump FCC’s Plan to End Net Neutrality
The details of FCC Chairman Ajit Pai’s plan to destroy Net Neutrality are out. And they’re even worse than expected.
by Candace Clement

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/21/what-you-need-know-about-trump-fccs-plan-end-net-neutrality
–

Here’s What Your Workplace Can Do about Sexual Harassment
Bringing these conversations to your school or workplace is a massive disruption to business as usual, and that’s exactly what we need
by Gina Scaramella

*Impugning the impunity

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/21/heres-what-your-workplace-can-do-about-sexual-harassment
–

Transition in the Middle East: Transition to what?
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3388-transition-in-the-middle-east-transition-to-what
–

FIFA on Trial: Qatar’s World Cup back in the firing line
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3387-fifa-on-trial-qatars-world-cup-back-in-the-firing-line
—

The Real News Network
Russiagate ‘Experts’ Include Bigots and Frauds
Max Blumenthal of Alternet’s Grayzone Project reveals that several influential so-called “experts” on Russiagate have sketchy pasts and an agenda to silence dissenting voices

*Feeding garbage to the scapegoaters

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20505:Russiagate-%27Experts%27-Include-Bigots-and-Frauds

Saudi Financial Crisis at Heart of Princely Rage
The severe financial crisis and foreign policy failures ​are making Prince Mohammed bin Salman increasingly belligerent, says Vijay Prashad

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20508:Saudi-Financial-Crisis-at-Heart-of-Princely-Rage

Democracy in Crisis: A Global Antifascist Movement
Heather Heyer and Pavlos Fyssas are heroes to European antifascists. Why not here?
by Baynard Woods

*A “#Resistance” to a dire reality

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20517:Democracy-in-Crisis%3A-A-Global-Antifascist-Movement

Why is Police Brutality Against Women So Often Overlooked?
Women’s experiences with police violence are often absent from the discussion about police brutality. TRNN’s Taya Graham and Stephen Janis discuss the issue with attendees of the National Women’s Studies Association Conference in Baltimore

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20516:Why-is-Police-Brutality-Against-Women-So-Often-Overlooked%3F

At First J20 Trial, Prosecution Falls Flat
At the first mass trial of some 200 people over the J20 anti-Trump Inauguration Day protest, the prosecutor acknowledged that there is no evidence that the six defendants damaged property. So why do they face 60 years behind bars?

*At the risk (well, certainty) of repeating myself

A police state of mind

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20514:At-First-J20-Trial%2C-Prosecution-Falls-Flat
—

Petition
Justice for Port Drivers
Help us pass the Port Drivers Bill of Rights Act through Congress!

https://act.democrataction.com/port-drivers-bill-of-rights-j4pd
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Net Neutrality Protests to Hit Verizon Stores During Holiday Shopping Season

http://www.accuracy.org/release/net-neutrality-protests-to-hit-verizon-stores-during-holiday-shopping-season

11.20

FDA Raids in Florida Suggest Trump Admin. Policy Change That Benefits Big Pharma
News of the raids follows the president’s nomination of a former drug company executive to serve as secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Pro PhRMA

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/20/fda-raids-florida-suggest-trump-admin-policy-change-benefits-big-pharma

As Support Grows for Ban on Killer Robots, Viral ‘Slaughterbots’ Video Warns of Threat to Humans
AI’s “potential to benefit humanity is enormous, even in defense, but allowing machines to choose to kill humans will be devastating to our security and freedom”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

*The mindless from the soulless

Or vice versa

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/20/support-grows-ban-killer-robots-viral-slaughterbots-video-warns-threat-humans

Experts Warn It Would Take More Than One General to Thwart “Illegal” Nuclear Strike
“What would happen if a president ordered a nuclear strike, but the commanding general refused, believing it to be illegal? The truth is, no one knows.”
by Jon Queally, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Failed safe

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/19/experts-warn-it-would-take-more-one-general-thwart-illegal-nuclear-strike
—

Inequality Out of Control: The Average 1% Household Made Over $2.5 Million in the Past Year
“Inequality, like a malignant tumor, is growing out of control, and the only response from Congress is to make it even worse”
by Paul Buchheit

*Suggested edit

“[w]e may never _____ be an equitable and functional society.”

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/20/inequality-out-control-average-1-household-made-over-25-million-past-year
–

In Defense of Millennial Politics
We are practicing freedom in new and profound ways
by Derek Denman and Maria Adelmann

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/20/defense-millennial-politics
–

Washington’s War on Poor Grad Students
Imagine having to pay thousands of dollars of taxes on virtually no income
by Jill Richardson

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/20/washingtons-war-poor-grad-students
–

‘Hot Potato’ Shows Why Workers Won’t Benefit From Trump’s Corporate Tax Cut
Who will be left holding the potato?
by Steven Pressman

*Why did “mashers” pop into my head?

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/20/hot-potato-shows-why-workers-wont-benefit-trumps-corporate-tax-cut
–

Saudi-UAE push to mobilize tribes against Qatari emir
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3386-saudi-uae-push-to-mobilize-tribes-against-qatari-emir
—

Center for Constitutional Rights (CCR)
Two Years After Historic Settlement Ending Indefinite Solitary Confinement in CA, CCR Details Ongoing Violations, Releases Report Showing Lasting Consequences of SHU Post-Release
New Filing Seeks One-Year Extension of Court Monitoring Based on Violations

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/11/20/two-years-after-historic-settlement-ending-indefinite-solitary-confinement-ca
—

The Real News Network
Digital Superpowers Poised To Increase Global Inequities Under the Label of E-Commerce
Public forum sheds light on dangers ahead for most countries from the push for comprehensive deregulation backed by big players at the forefront of new technologies like Big Data and Artificial Intelligence

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20506:Digital-Superpowers-Poised-To-Increase-Global-Inequities-Under-the-Label-of-E-Commerce

Seven J20 Activists go to Trial This Week
Executive Producer Eddie Conway speaks with Industrial Workers of the World organizers about the current status of their court case dealing with protests at Trump’s inauguration

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20504:Seven-J20-Activists-go-to-Trial-This-Week

Turmoil in Zimbabwe May Present New Opportunities
The military coup in Zimbabwe and a leadership crisis within the ruling party has created an opportunity for a “national transitional authority,” which may be the best option for long-oppressed Zimbabweans, says Horace Campbell of the University of Ghana

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20494:Turmoil-in-Zimbabwe-May-Present-New-Opportunities

Collective Action Key to Fighting Sexual Harassment
When women organize to fight back against sexual harassment, they’re more effective and better protected than when they go it alone, says Jacobin’s Alex Press

*Do we agree that how we work with each other in a group must reflect what we claim to be working for in the wider world?

If so, any contradiction in that commitment diminishes our ability to effect sociopolitical change, and there’s no place for “relativism” that subordinates that basic precept to “the greater struggle”.

The principle of treating others as you’d wish to be treated is central to any notion of justice and active humanity.

Merely paying lip service to it is a certain sign of a hypocrisy that vitiates any claim to integrity.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20501:Collective-Action-Key-to-Fighting-Sexual-Harassment

As US Fuels War Crimes in Yemen, House Says US Involvement is Unauthorized
Overwhelming support for the nonbinding resolution, which passed the House 366-30, shows opposition to Saudi Arabia’s war in Yemen is growing, but more pressure is needed to stop U.S. involvement, explains economist Mark Weisbrot of CEPR

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20502:As-US-Fuels-War-Crimes-in-Yemen%2C-House-Says-US-Involvement-is-Unauthorized
—

FAIR
Ignoring Washington’s Role in Yemen Carnage, 60 Minutes Paints US as Savior
by Adam Johnson

http://fair.org/home/ignoring-washingtons-role-in-yemen-carnage-60-minutes-paints-us-as-savior
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
“60 Minutes” Highlights Saudi Atrocity in Yemen, Ignores U.S. Role in it

*”60 Minutes” of silence on US savagery

http://www.accuracy.org/release/62859
—

FAIR
‘Tolerance of Violence in Homes Is the Necessary Precursor to Public Violence’
CounterSpin interview with Soraya Chemaly on domestic violence and mass shootings
by Janine Jackson

*The corpress will never “diversify its own management”, which is why we need alternative media outlets

But it is true that “it’s hard for (any) media to critique itself”, and unless that’s a central principle for those alternative sources, their benefit to us will always be limited.

http://fair.org/home/tolerance-of-violence-in-homes-is-the-necessary-precursor-to-public-violence

11.17

‘These Will Be Weapons of Mass Destruction’: Warnings About Killer Robots After UN Talks
While support builds for an outright ban of autonomous weapons, powerful nations with large technology industries are resistant to imposing expansive limitations
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/17/these-will-be-weapons-mass-destruction-warnings-about-killer-robots-after-un-talks
—

Corporate Power, E-Commerce, and the World Trade Organization
Ahead of upcoming summit, the world’s most powerful tech companies are angling to maintain their dominance
by Deborah James

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/17/corporate-power-e-commerce-and-world-trade-organization
–

Popular Thanksgiving Turkey Brand Comes with a Side of Antibiotics?
According to testing conducted under the USDA protocols, samples of Diestel Turkey products tested positive for numerous drug and antibiotic residues
by Katherine Paul

*Taking us for Whole Fools

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/17/popular-thanksgiving-turkey-brand-comes-side-antibiotics
—

Friends of the Earth
Major Grocery Retailers Across North America Reject Genetically Engineered Fish

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/11/17/major-grocery-retailers-across-north-america-reject-genetically-engineered-fish
—

The Real News Network
Barghouti: Cambridge’s Interference in BDS Event is ‘Ludicrous’
Cambridge University threatened to shut down an event about the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions Movement, citing concerns about the Palestinian moderator’s neutrality. BDS founder Omar Barghouti says it’s a “slippery slope towards McCarthyism on campus”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20489:Barghouti%3A-Cambridge%27s-Interference-in-BDS-Event-is-%27Ludicrous%27

Brazilian Women Protest Legislation that Could Ban Abortion
A constitutional amendment in Brazil has passed a key committee in the legislature and, if passed, would criminalize all abortions, even in cases of rape and risk to the mother’s life

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20476:Brazilian-Women-Protest-Legislation-that-Could-Ban-Abortion

Wasserman Schultz Ally Resigns Amid Allegations of Creating ‘Creepy’ Work Environment for Women
Billionaire donor, Florida Democratic Party Chair Stephen Bittel, resigns from position he won in controversial election
by Michael Sainato

*But … but …

He backed Hillary (see Weinstein, Harvey)

And she’s a “feminist”!

I’m so confused …

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20498:Wasserman-Schultz-Ally-Resigns-Amid-Allegations-of-Creating-%27Creepy%27-Work-Environment-for-Women

Harvey Weinstein Hired Israeli Spies to Silence His Victims
The disgraced film producer contracted the firm Israeli firm Black Cube to spy on his accusers. Journalist and best-selling author Max Blumenthal says that’s no surprise given Israel’s role as a “leading expert on repression”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20487:Harvey-Weinstein-Hired-Israeli-Spies-to-Silence-His-Victims

Trump’s CFPB Pick Will Likely Spell Bad News for Consumers
The good news is that President Trump has been slow to nominate heads for regulatory agencies, says white-collar criminologist Bill Black. The bad news is that Trump will pick someone eventually to replace Richard Cordray

*Every day a bank holiday if His Travesty and the bipartisanistas have their way

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20481:Trump%27s-CFPB-Pick-Will-Likely-Spell-Bad-News-for-Consumers
—

FAIR
Guardian, NYT Paint Power-Grabbing Saudi Dictator as Roguish, Visionary ‘Reformer’
by Adam Johnson

*Not hard to suss what it’s “The Guardian” of, is it just?

http://fair.org/home/guardian-nyt-paint-power-grabbing-saudi-dictator-as-roguish-visionary-reformer
—

Democracy Now!
Activists Condemn Failure of COP23 to Address Interrelated Crises of Climate, Energy & Inequality

*”The one eyed man is king”

Thankfully, not for this segment, but all too often on this program, he or she is also a respected guest.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/17/activists_condemn_failure_of_cop23_to

Tom Goldtooth: Carbon Trading is “Fraudulent” Scheme to Privatize Air & Forests to Permit Pollution

*Buy the sky and sell the sky
And bleed the sky and tell the sky
Don’t fall on me

– “Fall on Me” by R.E.M.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/17/tom_goldtooth_carbon_trading_is_fraudulent

Migration Advocate Calls on Delegates at COP23 to Address Climate Change Displacement

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/17/migration_advocate_calls_on_delegates_at

11.16

Supreme Court Will Decide If Women Can Join Together To Fight Sexual Harassment At Work
24.7 million American workers have been forced to sign contracts that, as a condition of employment, require them to waive their rights to joining a class action lawsuit to address sexual harassment and other workplace disputes
by Celine McNicholas

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/16/supreme-court-will-decide-if-women-can-join-together-fight-sexual-harassment-work
–

Whither Catalonia?
Josep María Antentas interviewed by Dan La Botz

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/711-josep-maria-antentas-interviewed-by-dan-la-botz/3384–whither-catalonia
—

The Real News Network
Democrats Push to Help Predatory Payday Lenders
A bipartisan bill being pushed by Democrats in the House and Senate would help payday lenders circumvent state regulations on interest rates
by Michael Sainato

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20492:Democrats-Push-to-Help-Predatory-Payday-Lenders

Trump’s Crackdown on RT Met by Media, NGO Silence
The Justice Department’s move forcing RT America to register as a foreign agent has received little to no criticism, or in some cases notice, from prominent media outlets and civil liberties groups. We speak to author and journalist Max Blumenthal

*A flexible fealty to free speech

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20486:Trump%27s-Crackdown-on-RT-Met-by-Media%2C-NGO-Silence

Can Congress Stop Trump From Going Nuclear?
The Senate has held a hearing on a topic it hasn’t taken up in more than four decades: the President’s authority to launch nuclear war. William Hartung of the Center for International Policy discusses nuclear policy in the Trump era

*Nuclear weapons, by definition, have always been in the hands of lunatics

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20485:Can-Congress-Stop-Trump-From-Going-Nuclear%3F

Police Shootings of Native Americans are Underreported and Rising
The Native American population suffers from higher rates of police shootings, but this is generally underreported because the incidents often occur in remote areas, explains Glen Ford of the Black Agenda Report

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20451:Police-Shootings-of-Native-Americans-are-Underreported-and-Rising
—

Petition
Justice for Port Drivers
End exploitation of workers on LA City property!

https://actionnetwork.org/petitions/end-exploitation-on-city-property
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Facebook or Russia: Who’s the Real Threat?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/facebook-or-russia-whos-the-real-threat
—

FAIR
‘There’s All Kinds of People Who Have Their Snouts in the Trough Here’
CounterSpin interview with James Henry on the Paradise Papers
by Janine Jackson

http://fair.org/home/theres-all-kinds-of-people-who-have-their-snouts-in-the-trough-here

Spinning E-Commerce as Rust Belt’s Salvation
by Eoin Higgins

*It goes without saying that these joblets are non union

And so the corpress does just that.

http://fair.org/home/spinning-e-commerce-as-rust-belts-salvation

The Pathological Refusal to Report the Simple Truth About Presidential Lying
by Reed Richardson

*Why would you expect liars to call out their kin?

http://fair.org/home/the-pathological-refusal-to-report-the-simple-truth-about-presidential-lying
—

Democracy Now!
Zimbabwe in Limbo as Military Seizes Control & Places President Mugabe Under House Arrest

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/16/zimbabwe_in_limbo_as_military_seizes

Nigerian Environmental Activist: Displacement from Climate Change Contributed to Rise of Boko Haram

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/16/nigerian_environmental_activist_displacement_from_climate

Activists at COP23 Decry Companies & Corporate Sponsors Pushing Fossil Fuel as Energy Solution

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/16/activists_at_cop23_decry_companies_corporate

Migration Expert Urges Immediate Action as Millions Are Already Displaced by Climate Change

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/16/migration_expert_urges_immediate_action_as

11.15

Don’t Fall for AT&T’s Billion-Dollar Swindle
Have I got a deal for you
by S. Derek Turner

*Telecon

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/15/dont-fall-atts-billion-dollar-swindle
–

Capitalism Is Not the Only Choice
We have opportunities every day to build economies that lift each
other up and spread joy
by Penn Loh

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/15/capitalism-not-only-choice
–

Prime Minister Saad Hariri’s return to Lebanon: A moment of truth
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3383-prime-minister-saad-hariris-return-to-lebanon-a-moment-of-truth
–

A Just Transition From Climate Change and Unemployment
by Joseph Mathunjwa

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/710-joseph-mathunjwa/3381–a-just-transition-from-climate-change-and-unemployment
—

The Real News Network
Is Greek Democracy Dead?
Panagiotis Lafazanis, former leader of Syriza’s Left Platform and current leader of Popular Unity, says Greece has become a protectorate of the Troika

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20427:Is-Greek-Democracy-Dead%3F

Spreading The Word
Mothers Of Murdered Sons And Daughters offers space to deal with grief
by Eze Jackson

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20482:Spreading-The-Word

House Democrats Help Republicans Pass $700B in Military Spending
A record spending bill overwhelmingly approved by the House on Tuesday
authorizes $700 billion for the U.S. military

*No gridlock on the door to death and destruction

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20477:House-Democrats-Help-Republicans-Pass-%24700B-in-Military-Spending
—

FAIR
NYT’s Campus Free Speech Coverage Focuses 7-to-1 on Plight of Right
by Adam Johnson

*Clutching pearls for swine

http://fair.org/home/nyts-campus-free-speech-coverage-focuses-7-to-1-on-plight-of-right
—

Democracy Now!
Pacific Climate Warriors Roll Out Anti-Coal “Red Carpet” for Angela
Merkel at U.N. Climate Talks

*We’ll see just who is “actually here to make a change”

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/15/pacific_climate_warriors_roll_out_anti

Special Report from the Occupied Forest: Meet Activists Fighting
Europe’s Largest Open-Pit Coal Mine

*Politically committed action speaks louder than politically calculated words

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/15/special_report_from_the_occupied_forest
—

BPA: still a big deal
Bisphenol A is everywhere. And research suggests that it’s not doing
your health any favors
by Caitlin Dow

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/food-safety/bpa-still-a-big-deal

11.14

The Real News Network
Congress and Oil Industry Collude to Charge Anti-Pipeline Activists With Terrorism
The American Petroleum Institute has crafted a letter, signed by 84 members of Congress, suggesting that anti-pipeline activists should be charged with domestic terrorism. DeSmog Blog’s Steve Horn says it’s just one of many instances of a government-industry alliance against green activists

*Oiling the skids for a police state

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20457:Congress-and-Oil-Industry-Collude-to-Charge-Anti-Pipeline-Activists-With-Terrorism

Activists Disrupt White House’s Pro-Coal Panel at Bonn Climate Summit
Investigative journalist Steve Horn breaks down the special interests behind the Trump administration’s pro-fossil fuel presentation at COP23

*What’s the environmental impact of snake oil?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20456:Activists-Disrupt-White-House%27s-Pro-Coal-Panel-at-Bonn-Climate-Summit
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
“McCarthyism Inc: Hyping Russian Threats”

*From communism to terrorism to Putinism, the pimping of an external “threat” has always served to enable repression of any incipient internal one.

http://www.accuracy.org/release/mccarthyism-inc-hyping-russian-threats

11.13

Roy Moore Backers Circle the Wagons as Second Woman Steps Forward With Assault Allegations
Beverly Young Nelson says she was 16 when the Alabama Senate candidate attempted to rape her and then threatened her
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Can a fictional godhead sue for defamation of character?

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/13/roy-moore-backers-circle-wagons-second-woman-steps-forward-assault-allegations
–

Fight the Disease, Not the Symptoms
If we can mount sustained acts of defiance in the face of severe state repression, we have a chance
by Chris Hedges

*Know your enemy, but every bit as essentially

Know your “friends”

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/13/fight-disease-not-symptoms
–

The Super Wealthy Oxycontin Family Supports School Privatization With Tactics Similar to Those That Fueled the Opioid Epidemic
by Sarah Darer Littman

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/708-sarah-darer-littman/3378–the-super-wealthy-oxycontin-family-supports-school-privatization-with-tactics-similar-to-those-that-fueled-the-opioid-epidemic

Canada’s Pro-Israel Lobby Uses Fake News and Specious Assumptions to ‘Demonize and Delegitimize’ the BDS Movement
by Dimitri Lascaris

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/71-more-blog-posts-from-dimitri-lascaris/3380-canadas-pro-israel-lobby-uses-fake-news-and-specious-assumptions-to-demonize-and-delegitimize-the-bds-movement
–

Arab media: Saudi purge promises tighter control
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3376-arab-media-saudi-purge-promises-tighter-control
–

Just a john? Pornography and men’s choices
Reading the news the past few week about men’s routine abuse and exploitation of women led be back to “Just a john? Pornography and men’s choices,” a talk I gave in 2005 to a men’s group. Some of the details of the pornography industry have changed since then, but the questions I ask are still relevant.
by Robert Jensen

http://www.nostatusquo.com/ACLU/Porn/jensonjohns.html
–

Four Viral Claims Spread by Journalists on Twitter in the Last Week Alone That Are False
by Glenn Greenwald

*Swallowing bite sized pieces of perfidy

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/189-more-blog-posts-from-glenn-greenwald/3375-four-viral-claims-spread-by-journalists-on-twitter-in-the-last-week-alone-that-are-false
–

New Mass Resistance as Spanish State Jails Catalan Ministers
by Dick Nichols

http://www.therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/3374
—

Urgent Action needed in support of Shahabi & Salehi; Salehi is close to death!
by the International Alliance in Support of Workers in Iran

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/709-iaswi/3379-urgent-action-needed-in-support-of-shahabi-a-salehi-salehi-is-close-to-death
—

The Real News Network
Democracy in Crisis: Conspiracy Theories
The government’s case sets lowbar for conspiracy charges on eve of this week’s J20 trial
by Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20454:Democracy-in-Crisis%3A-Conspiracy-Theories

Alexandr Buzgalin On The Centenary of the Russian Revolution
The spirit of the revolution is still alive and the centenary is being celebrated in Russia by the democratic left, convening people from the former soviet republics and the world

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20316:Alexandr-Buzgalin-On-The-Centenary-of-the-Russian-Revolution

Is Waiting for Coal Jobs a Mistake?
President Trump has repeatedly promised to bring back coal jobs, and as a result, some miners are holding off on retraining programs. But is there a future for coal? We speak to economist Bob Pollin of PERI

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20440:Is-Waiting-for-Coal-Jobs-a-Mistake%3F

US Sanctions on Venezuela: ‘Attempt to Destroy the Economy’
Venezuela’s recession is making it difficult for the country to meet its debt payments, but US sanctions are making a difficult task almost impossible, explains CEPR’s Mark Weisbrot

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20438:US-Sanctions-on-Venezuela%3A-%27Attempt-to-Destroy-the-Economy%27

Saudi’s ‘War on Lebanon’ Backfires
After being accused of forcing him to resign, Saudi Arabia’s apparent detention of Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri has boosted support for Hezbollah, says author and professor Amal Saad

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20435:Saudi%27s-%27War-on-Lebanon%27-Backfires

Join The Dots: Data WTF?
Kam Sandhu and Matt Kennard discuss the ways in which our data is being used by data brokers, tech elites and financial technology companies in order to make assessments of us. Is all data credit data?

*Using our footprints to keep theirs on our necks

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20409:Join-The-Dots%3A-Data-WTF%3F
—

Institute for Public Accuracy
Alex Azar at HHS: “Big Pharma’s Coup”

*It’s a swamp thing

http://www.accuracy.org/release/alex-azar-at-hhs-big-pharmas-coup

Not Kremlin Propaganda: Neo-Nazis in Ukraine

http://www.accuracy.org/release/not-kremlin-propaganda-neo-nazis-in-ukraine-interviews-available
—

FAIR
Media Who Went to Bat for Shut-Out Critics Should Also Stand Up for Targeted Copwatchers

*A false front on having backs

http://fair.org/home/media-who-went-to-bat-for-shut-out-critics-should-also-stand-up-for-targeted-copwatchers
—

Democracy Now!
CA Gov. Jerry Brown Tells Indigenous Activists Protesting Fracking He’ll Put Them “In the Ground”

*Jerry Brown is a true “liberal”

And I mean that in the worst way possible.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/13/ca_gov_jerry_brown_tells_indigenous

Thousands Protest in Manila as Trump Hails “Great Relationship” with Philippines President Duterte

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/13/thousands_protest_in_manila_as_trump
—

Breast Cancer Signs: 5 Rarely Discussed Early Warning Signs
by Ty Bollinger

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/5-early-warning-breast-cancer-signs

The ins and outs of osteoarthritis
Here’s the latest on how to protect your joints and what to do if you develop osteoarthritis
by Caitlin Dow

https://www.nutritionaction.com/daily/exercise-for-health/the-ins-and-outs-of-osteoarthritis

11.10

Don’t Worry, Europe, Radioactive Cloud Likely From Nuclear Facility Accident Deemed ‘Harmless’
Ruthenium-106 was detected “in the atmosphere of the majority of European countries” beginning late September, French officials said
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/10/dont-worry-europe-radioactive-cloud-likely-russian-nuclear-plant-accident-deemed

Critics Slam Roy Moore’s “Disgusting” Fundraiser Based on Sexual Abuse Allegations
In wake of accusations he molested 14-year-old girl, GOP candidate asked supporters to stand with him against “an all-out war on our conservative values”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*God, guns and gonads

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/10/critics-slam-roy-moores-disgusting-fundraiser-based-sexual-abuse-allegations
–

Making Puerto Rico the New New Orleans – Steal the Schools and Give Them to Big Business to Run For Profit
Celebrating teachers who refuse to back down despite the forces of prejudice and commerce stacked against them
by Steven Singer

*Mass ignorance is the oligarchy’s bliss

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/10/making-puerto-rico-new-new-orleans-steal-schools-and-give-them-big-business-run

The Real News Network
Burn Pits and Betrayal: How the U.S. Poisoned its Veterans
As the U.S. marks Veterans Day, the documentary ‘Delay, Deny, Hope You Die’ explores how the Pentagon and its contractors have neglected soldiers poisoned by toxins on military bases overseas

*Patriotic poison is the refuse of scoundrels

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20418:Burn-Pits-and-Betrayal%3A-How-the-U.S.-Poisoned-its-Veterans

Trump Admin Pushes Work Requirements on Medicaid Recipients
The Trump administration will back efforts to impose work requirements on Medicaid participants, creating a new obstacle to healthcare for vulnerable people, says Michael Lighty of National Nurses United

*Arbeit macht frei

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20430:Trump-Admin-Pushes-Work-Requirements-on-Medicaid-Recipients

Richest Arabian Arms Dealer and Arrested Prince Unveiled
Prince Al-Waleed is one of Saudi Arabia’s richest princes and profited enormously from Saudi arms purchases. Andrew Feinstein, author of ‘Shadow Wars’, on the legal risks of corrupt arms dealing

*Which flows faster

The money

Or the blood?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20420:Richest-Arabian-Arms-Dealer-and-Arrested-Prince-Unveiled

German Green Party Abandons Key Demands to Join Conservative Coalition
Initial coalition negotiations in Germany between the Christian Democrats, the economic liberals (FDP), and the Green Party indicate that the Green Party has decided to abandon specific target dates for the phasing out of combustion engines and coal mining

*Is politics the art of the possible

Or the artifice of certain betrayal?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20431:German-Green-Party-Abandons-Key-Demands-to-Join-Conservative-Coalition
–

Free Press
Help Save the Lifeline Program: Call the FCC Today

http://act.freepress.net/call/internet_lifeline/?t=2&akid=7164%2E9217552%2EcKtSvV
–

Institute for Public Accuracy
Are Saudia Arabia, Israel and the U.S. Trying to Destabalize Lebanon?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/are-saudia-arabia-israel-and-the-u-s-trying-to-destabalize-lebanon
–

FAIR
What Corporate Media Failed to Learn About Canadian Single-Payer
Media responded to Bernie Sanders’ hospital tour of Canada with predictable dismissiveness
by Michael Corcoran

*Odd … no mention in these pieces of Article 25 of the UDHR, and US’ commitment to same.

An inadvertent oversight, surely.

http://fair.org/home/what-corporate-media-failed-to-learn-about-canadian-single-payer
–

Democracy Now!
Will Trump Challenge Philippines President Duterte’s Deadly Drug War When They Meet in Manila?

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/10/will_trump_challenge_philippines_president_dutertes

On Asia Trip, Trump Met by Protests Calling on U.S. to Open Diplomatic Relations with North Korea

*”[T]he backbone of U.S. global influence” is its money and its military might, and rueing the “near collapse” of its diplomatic corps, which works hand in glove with same, is an odd view to take for a program that bills itself as “the exception to the rulers”, don’t you think?

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/10/on_asia_trip_trump_met_by

11.9

#WorldWithoutWalls: A Global Demand From Palestine to Mexico and Beyond
Demonstrations across the globe denounce walls erected by powerful governments as “monuments of expulsion, exclusion, oppression, discrimination, and exploitation”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/09/worldwithoutwalls-global-demand-palestine-mexico-and-beyond

Despite ‘Misinformation’ Campaign by Telecom Industry, Municipal Broadband Wins in Colorado
One city approved a ballot measure to invest $150 million to establish a local broadband utility, while 19 communities voted in favor of exploring similar options
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/09/despite-misinformation-campaign-telecom-industry-municipal-broadband-wins-colorado
–

A Texas Church Massacre and the Illusion of Armed Salvation
We need to start envisioning a world beyond mass murder: a world where rage and hatred are not armed and, indeed, where our most volatile emotions can find release long before they become lethal
by Robert C. Koehler

*Haplessness is a warm gun

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/09/texas-church-massacre-and-illusion-armed-salvation
–

Center for Biological Diversity
New Report: California Oil Among World’s Dirtiest
Rampant Oil Production Undermines State’s Climate Leadership

*Fool’s Golden State

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/11/09/new-report-california-oil-among-worlds-dirtiest
–

The Real News Network
Iran Accused of Using Afghan Child Soldiers in Syria
Human Rights Watch says Iran has sent thousands of Afghan refugees to fight in Syria, including children as young as 14. We speak to journalist and author Emran Feroz

*I appreciate Maté’s efforts to put this in context, although I think he was unnecessarily confrontational in doing so.

Of course, if Feroz is interviewed by the corpress, there’ll be no worries about such matters, will there?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20403:Iran-Accused-of-Using-Afghan-Child-Soldiers-in-Syria

Residents March Through City Hall to Demand Affordable Housing Funds
Advocates delivered a petition to Baltimore finance officials to demand $40 million per year to fund affordable housing and fix blight, part of plan they say will restore equity to a city that has doled out big tax breaks to wealthy developers

*What a revolting “development”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20428:Residents-March-Through-City-Hall-to-Demand-Affordable-Housing-Funds
–

Institute for Public Accuracy
U.S. Backing Saudi Escalation of Starvation in Yemen

http://www.accuracy.org/release/u-s-backing-saudi-escalation-of-starvation-in-yemen
–

FAIR
NBC News’ Breezy Whitewash of White Supremacist Group
by Adam Johnson

*Perhaps not “naïve” or “gullible”

But simply appealing to a trending demographic?

http://fair.org/home/nbc-news-breezy-whitewash-of-white-supremacist-group

‘We Need a Fundamental Shift in the Way We Frame Drug Issues’
CounterSpin Interview with Maria McFarland Sanchez-Moreno on U.S Drug Policy
by Janine Jackson

http://fair.org/home/we-need-a-fundamental-shift-in-the-way-we-frame-drug-issues

‘Title IX Requires Schools to Handle All Allegations Promptly and Equitably’
CounterSpin interview with Alyssa Peterson on campus sexual assault
by Janine Jackson

http://fair.org/home/title-ix-requires-schools-to-handle-all-allegations-promptly-and-equitably
–

Democracy Now!
Yemeni Journalist: Saudi Arabia’s Total Blockade on Yemen is “Death Sentence” for All

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/9/yemeni_journalist_saudi_arabias_total_blockade

Saudi Prince Mohammad bin Salman Consolidates Power & Purges Rivals Under “Anti-Corruption” Pretense

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/9/saudi_prince_mohammad_bin_salman_consolidates

11.8

‘Amazing News’: Rights Groups Celebrate After Italy Bans Use of Circus Animals
Advocates for animal welfare praised the Italian parliament while calling on other nations, including the United States, to follow suit
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/08/amazing-news-rights-groups-celebrate-after-italy-bans-use-circus-animals

To Fight Global Threat of Antibiotic Resistance, WHO Issues First-Ever Guidelines to Curb Use
Experts warn without urgent action on a global scale, “by 2050, almost all current antibiotics will be ineffective in preventing and treating human disease”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/08/fight-global-threat-antibiotic-resistance-who-issues-first-ever-guidelines-curb-use
–

Holding onto Your Humanity in Solitary Confinement
On the pain and the pathology of the Security Housing Unit
by Cynthia Kaufman and Ifoma Modibo Kambon

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/08/holding-your-humanity-solitary-confinement
–

Earthjustice
SECURE Act is a Public Lands and Waters Giveaway to Dirty Industry

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/11/08/secure-act-public-lands-and-waters-giveaway-dirty-industry
–

The Real News Network
Empire Files: Trump Expands Police-State Crackdown on the Left
At Trump’s inauguration, around 200 protesters and journalists were mass arrested and now face up to 70 years in prison on baseless charges. Many other legal assaults on civil liberties are in the works around the country, from treating anti-fascists as “domestic terrorists”, to legislation protecting drivers who run over peaceful marchers

*No “gridlock” when it comes to locking up those both sides of the aisle fear

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20397:Empire-Files%3A-Trump-Expands-Police-State-Crackdown-on-the-Left

Congress’ ‘Show Trial’ of Big Tech over Russia
Twitter, Facebook, and Google were brought before Congress last week over claims about Russian use of their platforms to influence the 2016 election. We speak to Yasha Levine, author of the forthcoming “Surveillance Valley: The Secret Military History of the Internet”

*Exhuming McCarthy, as the song goes

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20408:Congress%27s-%27Show-Trial%27-of-Big-Tech-over-Russia

Spain Is Turning the Political Problem of Catalan Independence into a Judicial Issue
As Spain issues European arrest warrants for Catalan independence leaders who are in Belgium, the conflict is becoming a judicial matter when it really should be political, says Sebastian Faber

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20401:Spain-Is-Turning-the-Political-Problem-of-Catalan-Independence-into-a-Judicial-Issue

Vijay Prashad at Code Pink Summit: The Trump Presidency May Be the Last Presidency
President Trump’s presidency is so “annihilatonist” that it may very well be the last presidency of the United States says Professor Vijay Prashad at the Code Pink Summit

*Righteous rant, but we won’t get to where we have to go as long as we’re traveling in a clunker called “The Democratic Party”

No matter who’s at its wheel.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20321:Vijay-Prashad-at-Code-Pink-Summit%3A-The-Trump-Presidency-May-Be-the-Last-Presidency
–

FAIR
Ramsey Orta Can’t Breathe
The only one punished since Eric Garner’s killing is the citizen-journalist who recorded it
by Josmar Trujillo

*For the denizens of the darkness

The highest crime is shining a light

http://fair.org/home/ramsey-orta-cant-breathe
–

Democracy Now!
Billionaire GOP Backer Robert Mercer Used Offshore Profits to Fund Breitbart & Attacks on Clinton

*Ask the people of Haiti about the Clintons’ “good work” in their shattered nation.

Whatever lies (add “Pizzagate” to the putrid pile) Bannon and his ilk may propagate about her, the truth is more than enough to “tarnish” her in the eyes of anyone with a fealty to peace and justice.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/8/billionaire_gop_backer_robert_mercer_used

Paradise Papers Expose “Cleverest Ways of Exploiting” Offshore Tax Havens by GOP & Democratic Donors

*A unified theory of greed

Regardless of posture

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/8/paradise_papers_expose_cleverest_ways_of

11.7

AFL-CIO Must Shine Light on Past Foreign Policy, Activists Say
by Larry Sillanpa

*Burying the past

Digs a grave for the future

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/707-larry-sillanpa/3370-afl-cio-must-shine-light-on-past-foreign-policy-activists-say
–

Good guys and bad guys
by Robert Jensen

*Domination is a multitasking monster, rampaging across the range of socioeconomic life.

A clear view of its head sharpens our focus on its tentacles.

http://www.feministcurrent.com/2017/11/06/good-guys-bad-guys
–

Institute for Agriculture & Trade Policy
New Research Shows The Industrial Livestock Industry Is Creating A Climate Crisis
The top five mega-corporations responsible for factory-farmed meat and dairy are responsible for emitting more combined greenhouse gases (GHGs) than Exxon, or Shell, or BP

*The methane in their madness

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/11/07/new-research-shows-industrial-livestock-industry-creating-climate-crisis
–

The Real News Network
The Link Between Saudi Prince’s Power Grab and DC Corruption
The power moves by the Saudi kingdom at home and in Lebanon were made easier by buying influence in powerful circles of Washington, DC, says The Intercept’s Ryan Grim

*No histrionic hearings on Gulf (or Israeli) “undermining of American democracy”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20394:The-Link-Between-Saudi-Prince%27s-Power-Grab-and-DC-Corruption

The Color of Money: Black Banks and the Racial Wealth Gap (3/3)
Nixon’s embrace of ‘black capitalism’ continues to this day while the roots of the racial wealth have never been addressed, says Mehrsa Baradaran of the University of Georgia

*The barefoot have no bootstraps

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20383:The-Color-of-Money%3A-Black-Banks-and-the-Racial-Wealth-Gap-%2833%29

Saudi Prince Salman’s Chess Game with Hezbollah in Lebanon
Prince Salman’s counter coup d’etat in Saudi Arabia​ has resulted in the forced resignation of ​Prime Minister Hariri in Lebanon, says Vijay Prashad

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20393:Saudi-Prince-Salman%27s-Chess-Game-with-Hezbollah-in-Lebanon
–

Democracy Now!
How Domestic Violence and Militarism “Open the Floodgates” to Mass Shootings Like the Texas Massacre

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/7/how_domestic_violence_and_militarism_open

As NYPD Officers Are Charged with Rape of Teenager, Advocates Call for End to Mass Sexual Violence

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/7/advocates_end_to_mass_sexual_violence

Acclaimed Chilean Writer Isabel Allende on Death of Pablo Neruda, the 1973 Chilean Coup & Trump

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/7/acclaimed_chilean_writer_isabel_allende_on

Chilean Writer Isabel Allende’s New Novel, “In the Midst of Winter,” Examines Immigrant Lives & Love

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/7/chilean_writer_isabel_allendes_new_novel

11.6

Analysis Shows How #TrumpTaxScam Stiffs Middle Class While Giveaways to 1% Grow Over Time
Meager cuts to working people will be temporary, gradually turning into tax hikes, but the benefits to the wealthiest only getting better
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/06/analysis-shows-how-trumptaxscam-stiffs-middle-class-while-giveaways-1-grow-over-time

‘I Made This… But Didn’t Get Paid’: Garment Workers Appeal Directly to Shoppers
Factory workers draw attention to mistreatment and unpaid wages with notes hidden inside clothing items
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Making the chic

Getting the shaft

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/06/i-made-didnt-get-paid-garment-workers-appeal-directly-shoppers
–

Extreme Poverty Cut in Half? Only in the Minds of the Capitalists
Conditions getting better? Only in the minds of capitalists who don’t want their comfortable lives disrupted by a rebellion among their billions of victims
by Paul Buchheit

*The poor will always be with us

Until the rich are not

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/06/extreme-poverty-cut-half-only-minds-capitalists
–

Saudi crackdown raises spectre of wider spread dissent
by James M. Dorsey

http://www.therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/3367
–

Earthjustice
Menominee Tribe Takes Action to Protect Its Namesake River
Lawsuit Aims to Ensure Clean Water Act Protections for Regionally and Nationally Important Waters

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/11/06/menominee-tribe-takes-action-protect-its-namesake-river
–

The Real News Network
22 Years After Rabin’s Murder, Israel Even Further From Peace
On the 22nd anniversary of Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin’s murder by a far-right Israeli, journalist Gideon Levy says Israel has become even more hostile to a just peace — one that Rabin himself was never willing to offer

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20386:22-Years-After-Rabin%27s-Murder%2C-Israel-Even-Further-From-Peace

Baltimore Activists Hold Second CeaseFire Weekend
As Baltimore passes 300 murders in 2017, CeaseFire 365 activists hold a second 72-hour killing-free weekend

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20387:Baltimore-Activists-Hold-Second-CeaseFire-Weekend

Did the Saudis Force Lebanese PM to Resign?
Scholar Rania Masri says it’s clear from a number of factors–from the dialect of his resignation speech to the location where delivered it–that Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri was forced by the Saudi Arabian government to resign

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20389:Did-the-Saudis-Force-Lebanese-PM-to-Resign%3F

Are Body Cameras Nothing More Than PR for Police Departments?
Baynard Woods speaks with an activist and public defenders about body cameras having little effect on the use of force by police officers

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20384:Are-Body-Cameras-Nothing-More-Than-PR-for-Police-Departments%3F

The Color of Money: Black Banks and the Racial Wealth Gap (2/3)
Mehrsa Baradaran details how government policy created white middle class wealth while simultaneously impoverishing African Americans

*New Deal

From the bottom of the deck

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20380:The-Color-of-Money%3A-Black-Banks-and-the-Racial-Wealth-Gap-%2823%29

The Color of Money: Black Banks and the Racial Wealth Gap (1/3)
A major compromise to white supremacy after Civil War was abandoning reparations and creating Black banks, argues Mehrsa Baradaran

*An object lesson in lionizing “leaders”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20379:The-Color-of-Money%3A-Black-Banks-and-the-Racial-Wealth-Gap-%2813%29

Rattling the Bars: Herman Bell
In this episode of “Rattling the Bars”, Eddie Conway looks at the motivations behind the brutal assault on Herman Bell, a 69-year old political prisoner incarcerated since 1973

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20377:Rattling-the-Bars%3A-Herman-Bell

Democracy in Crisis: Why We Don’t Call Vanguard America Terrorists
Trump’s response to two different terror attacks shows the reach of white supremacy
by Baynard Woods

*The protofascists may be the perps

But the “lib’rul media” are the something other than “gullible” enablers

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20378:Democracy-in-Crisis%3A-Why-We-Don%27t-Call-Vanguard-America-Terrorists

UK Interest Rate ​Hike​ Ignores Equitable Policy Options
In order to slow inflation, the Bank of England is raising interest rates for the first time in a decade–but this move ignores policy options that could potentially ease high levels of inequality in the UK, explains Positive Money’s Ed Smythe

*Nothing sweet about fudging these numbers

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20370:UK-Interest-Rate-%26%238203%3BHike%26%238203%3B-Ignores-Equitable-Policy-Options

Documents Raise Fears of Pentagon Domestic Spying
Newly revealed documents tie the Pentagon to widespread warrantless surveillance of US citizens and non-citizen residents, a major threat to constitutional rights, says Sarah St. Vincent of Human Rights Watch

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20358:Documents-Raise-Fears-of-Pentagon-Domestic-Spying

5 Years Later, Have We Learned from Superstorm Sandy?
For many, Superstorm Sandy was a wake-up call on the dangers of human-driven climate change and the disparate impact of its effects. On Sandy’s fifth anniversary, we discuss whether the lessons have been learned

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=20314
–

Institute for Public Accuracy
DNC Chair Perez’s “Disingenuous” Responses to Brazile

http://www.accuracy.org/release/dnc-chair-perezs-disingenuous-responses-to-brazile

* Asia * Saudi * Lebanon

http://www.accuracy.org/release/asia-saudi-lebanon
–

Democracy Now!
Suspect in Texas Church Massacre was Thrown Out of Air Force & Jailed for Assaulting Wife & Child

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/6/suspect_in_texas_church_massacre_was

Texans Decry “Extremist” Gun Lobby & Inadequate Background Checks After Mass Shooting Kills 26

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/6/texans_decry_extremist_gun_lobby_inadequate

After Texas Massacre, Drexel Prof. Asks: “What Makes White Men So Prone to This Kind of Behavior?”

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/6/after_texas_massacre_drexel_prof_asks

Why Did Media Overlook Sept. Shooting in Plano, Texas When Estranged Husband Killed Wife & 7 Others?

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/6/why_did_media_overlook_sept_shooting

Paradise Papers: Millions of Leaked Docs Reveal Shady Ties & Tax Evasion by Trump’s Inner Circle

*Avarice is no stranger in paradise

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/6/paradise_papers_millions_of_leaked_docs

11.3

Gulf Crisis: Soccer Trumps Politics
by James M. Dorsey

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/473-james-m-dorsey/3366-gulf-crisis-soccer-trumps-politics
–

The Real News Network
Spanish Judge Orders Arrests of Catalan Independence Leadership
A Spanish judge has detained eight former Catalan ministers and issued arrest warrants for Catalan leader Carles Puidgemont and his cabinet. Protesters have taken to the streets to demand their release. Professor Sebastiaan Faber has more from Madrid

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20365:Spanish-Judge-Orders-Arrests-of-Catalan-Independence-Leadership

Fragmented Health System Paves Way for CVS-Aetna Merger
In what is being called the biggest merger in the history of the health insurance industry, CVS is making a $66 billion bid to buy Aetna. We discuss the merger’s potential consequences with author and professor Bill Black

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20356:Fragmented-Health-System-Paves-Way-for-CVS-Aetna-Merger

Who Funds the World’s Dirtiest Energy Projects?
International big banks are ramping up Alberta oil sands projects even though scientists warn it could spell “game over” for human civilization, says Rainforest Action Network’s Alison Kirsch

*It doesn’t matter if a filthy, stinking corpse is filthy, stinking rich, does it?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20368:Who-Funds-the-World%27s-Dirtiest-Energy-Projects%3F

Billionaire Backer of the Alt-Right Sells Stake in Breitbart
Wil Hylton says Robert Mercer’s attempt to distance himself from the alt-right is about PR, not policy

*Please be aware that we’re talking about differences of degree, not kind.

“Boring conservatism”, with possible rare exceptions, is at heart is about profit über alles and power projected globally, with the death and destruction that comes with that.

Some may be more strategic and prudent than others in their pursuit of those aims, but there should be no mistaking the intent extant.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20363:Billionaire-Backer-of-the-Alt-Right-Sells-Stake-in-Breitbart
–

Institute for Public Accuracy
“Why the Papadopoulos Plea Isn’t a Smoking Gun”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/why-the-papadopoulos-plea-isnt-a-smoking-gun
–

FAIR
Media Make Excuses for Bush Sr.’s ‘Cop-a-Feel’ Assaults
by Tegan Jones

http://fair.org/home/media-make-excuses-for-bush-sr-s-cop-a-feel-assaults
–

Democracy Now!
In Puerto Rico’s Highlands, Hurricane Maria Has Exploded Fault Lines of Poverty & Austerity

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/3/in_puerto_ricos_highlands_hurricane_maria

Economist Yanis Varoufakis: Puerto Ricans Deserve an Escape from “Permanent Debt Prison”

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/3/economist_yanis_varoufakis_puerto_ricans_deserve

Yanis Varoufakis on Global Capitalism & How Trump’s Tax Plan is Class War Against the Poor

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/3/yanis_varoufakis_on_global_capitalism_how

Greek Economist Yanis Varoufakis on Nazi Resurgence in Europe & Why ”ISIS Loves Donald Trump”

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/3/fmr_greek_finance_min_yanis_varoufakis
–

Do Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines Lead to Over-Diagnosis?
by Sayer Ji

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/breast-cancer-screening-guidelines-video

11.2

Why the United Socialist Party of Venezuela Won the Regional Election
The Left won the battle for now but the war continues
by James Petras

http://therealnews.com/t2/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=20360
–

The Real News Network
The Balfour Declaration: How 67 Words Shaped the Middle East
One hundred years after the Balfour Declaration, Britain’s colonial legacy endures, says TRNN’s Shir Hever

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20353:The-Balfour-Declaration%3A-How-67-Words-Shaped-the-Middle-East

Donna Brazile Confesses that DNC Rigged Primaries
Former DNC Interim Chair Donna Brazile confirms money laundering scheme between the Democratic National Committee and Hillary Clinton campaign
By Michael Sainato

*So, if Brazile told Sanders about this, why hasn’t he exposed it?

And if she’s lying, you’d think he’ll say she is.

We’ll see …

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20361:Donna-Brazile-Confesses-that-DNC-Rigged-Primaries

Indigenous Activists Fight the ‘Standing Rock of the North’
The proposed Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain Pipeline expansion would run through 518 kilometers of Secwepemc territory. Kanahus Manuel of the Secwepemc Women’s Warrior Society discusses Indigenous activists’ struggle to stop the expansion

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20349:Indigenous-Activists-Fight-the-%27Standing-Rock-of-the-North%27
–

FAIR
Media Spent Months Lionizing General Who Defended Slaveholders’ Revolt
by Ben Norton

*Hail to the chief enabler

(And Lee spilled the blood of those he enslaved, as well)

http://fair.org/home/john-kelly-robert-e-lee-confederacy-media-moderate
–

Democracy Now!
“Send Him to Gitmo”: Trump Urges Execution of Saipov After Defending “Both Sides” in Charlottesville

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/2/send_him_to_gitmo_trump_urges

Advocates: Make “Low-Tech” Car Attacks Less Deadly by Putting Barriers on Bicycle & Pedestrian Paths

*Such a move would evince a desire to deter these attacks, so it seems a no brainer

Until you consider just who benefits from their continuation.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/2/advocates_make_low_tech_car_attacks

Uzbekistan Cooperated with CIA Rendition & Torture Post-9/11, as Gov’t Boiled Dissidents Alive

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/2/experts_uzbekistan_hosted_cia_black_sites

11.1

*I don’t know that I know that much, but I do know that dogma is friend to no one but the dominator, and despises those who question contradictions.

Witness the opprobrium unleashed toward those who look askance at the cockassuredness of the Russia to Judgement ™.

If two plus two keeps coming out seven, it may not be your math.

We humans can be intellectually lax, which often leads to being morally slack, because we “want to believe”, to be part of something larger than ourselves, in an effort to validate our existence

But at what cost?

When a political personality or movement supersedes the principles they or it claim to represent, dogma has triumphed, as was the case a century ago in Russia.

And as we question the contradictions of others, we must also be ever alert to our own, else we fall victim to a self made ideological rigidity that consigns our criticisms to the realm of hypocrisy.

I hope that makes some sense.*
–

Flying Under Radar of Trump Chaos, GOP Set to Confirm Slew of ‘Extremist’ Judges
“These nominees’ collective records reveal the disturbing truth that this administration does not just tolerate radical anti-equality views among its judicial nominees, but requires them”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Kaine … Kaine …

Where have I heard that name before?

Maybe I should ask “archfeminist” Ms. Clinton?

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/11/01/flying-under-radar-trump-chaos-gop-set-confirm-slew-extremist-judges
–

Want To Prevent Sexual Harassment And Assault? Start By Teaching Kids
Prevention needs to begin in early childhood and continue for life
by Poco Kernsmith, Joanne Smith-Darden and Megan Hicks

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/01/want-prevent-sexual-harassment-and-assault-start-teaching-kids
–

Fossil Fuels Are Killing Us. So What’s The Plan?
Why we can’t hide from the discussion about a managed decline of fossil fuel production
by Hannah McKinnon

*A “green” economy dominated by corporations isn’t the future we should be working for.

“In Musk We Trust” is a motto for a failed vision of a healthy planet, and a just world.

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/11/01/fossil-fuels-are-killing-us-so-whats-plan
–

Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law
Election Protection Offering Live Assistance To Voters In States Across The Country
Toll-Free Hotline (866-OUR-VOTE) Available Now Through Election Day

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/11/01/election-protection-offering-live-assistance-voters-states-across-country
–

The Real News Network
Climate Emergency: Greenhouse Gas Levels Surge to Historic Levels
Distinguished Senior Scientist, Dr. Kevin Trenberth of the National Center for Atmospheric Research, discusses the World Meteorological Organization’s important new report on how concentrations of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere surged at a unprecedented speed in 2016 to the highest level in 800,000 years

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20354:Climate-Emergency%3A-Greenhouse-Gas-Levels-Surge-to-Historic-Levels

Jumping the Gun on a Russiagate Smoking Gun
Russiagate is a purported attempt to uncover the alleged subversion of U.S. democracy, but it’s creating dangers of its own, says former FBI Special Agent Colleen Rowley

*No smoking gun

But that doesn’t stop interested parties from shooting off their mouths, does it?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20350:Jumping-the-Gun-on-a-Russiagate-Smoking-Gun

Did John Kelly Attend History Class?
In defending Gen. Kelly’s praise for Robert E. Lee and his view that the Civil War arose from “the lack of an ability to compromise,” the White House’s white supremacist sympathies are again on display. We speak to historian Gerald Horne

*History doesn’t repeat itself without a whole lotta help

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20352:Did-John-Kelly-Attend-History-Class%3F

Xi Jinping: China’s ‘Chairman of Everything’
China’s President Xi Jinping has been incorporated into the communist party’s constitution, during the 19th party congress. This puts him at a far higher level than China’s previous two leaders, on a par with Mao and Deng Xiaoping, explains Prof. Jeff Wasserstrom of UC Irvine

*The CCP is as committed to the core tenets of socialism as institutionalized Christianity is to the teachings of Jesus (or his various ghostwriters).

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20347:Xi-Jinping%3A-China%27s-%27Chairman-of-Everything%27

What Will Cutting ‘Quantitative Easing’ Mean for Europe?
The European Central Bank (ECB) announced that it will reduce its cash injection program, known as quantitative easing, in half. Economist Heiner Flashback discusses the consequences this will have for Europe’s struggling economy

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20348:What-Will-Cutting-%27Quantitative-Easing%27-Mean-for-Europe%3F

#SaveAmna Campaign Emerges After Saudi Woman Disappears
A Saudi woman’s video asking for help from an abusive home environment goes viral as womens’ rights activists continue fighting for the end of male guardianship in Saudi Arabia
by Michael Sainato

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20351:%23SaveAmna-Campaign-Emerges-After-Saudi-Woman-Disappears
–

Petition
Public Citizen
Tell Vanguard to Support Transparency at First Shareholder Meeting Since Citizens United

http://action.citizen.org/p/dia/action4/common/public/?action_KEY=13639

Let Pregnant Students Complete their Education!
by Petrider Paul

https://www.change.org/p/tanzania-president-john-p-magufuli-let-pregnant-students-complete-their-education

Justice for Port Drivers
Port Truck Drivers Take Fight for Rights to DC

https://www.facebook.com/Justice4PortDrivers/photos/a.173092929526641.1073741828.173020596200541/933323006836959
–

Center for Media and Democracy
Koch Demands Corporate Welfare from One of America’s Poorest Cities
The Koch Brothers talk a good game against “corporate welfare,” but have received some $363 million in taxpayer subsidies
by Don Wiener

https://www.exposedbycmd.org/2017/10/25/koch-demands-corporate-welfare-from-one-of-americas-poorest-cities

Consumer Product Safety Commission Cracks Down on Flame Retardants Linked to Health Problems
by Mary Bottari and Rebekah Wilce

https://www.exposedbycmd.org/2017/09/27/consumer-product-safety-commission-cracks-flame-retardants-linked-health-problems
–

Democracy Now!
Shocking New Investigation Links Berta Cáceres’ Assassination to Executives at Honduran Dam Company

*The narrative that is always constructed when these horrors can’t be denied is that they are aberrations from the intended operation of capitalism

But the reality is that they are its logical outcomes.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/1/shocking_new_investigation_links_berta_caceress

Puerto Rico: As Whitefish Contract Faces Scrutiny, Fluor and Other Companies Move to Privatize Water

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/1/puerto_rico_as_whitefish_contract_faces

As Elon Musk Proposes Taking Over Power Authority, Puerto Ricans Demand Community-Owned Solar Power

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/11/1/as_elon_musk_proposes_taking_over

October 2017

 

10.31

Osama Bin Laden’s America: Niger, 9/11, and Apocalyptic Humiliation
16 years later, it is extraordinary how September 11th would set the pattern for everything that followed
by Tom Engelhardt

*9/11 didn’t change America

Like Trump, it simply removed its mask.

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/31/osama-bin-ladens-america-niger-911-and-apocalyptic-humiliation
–

Friends of the Earth
The Agrifood Atlas: How Corporations Are Tightening Their Stranglehold On People’s Food
The Agrifood Atlas will be launched at a press conference this morning at the Press Club in Brussels

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/10/31/agrifood-atlas-how-corporations-are-tightening-their-stranglehold-peoples-food
–

The Real News Network
Homegrown Terror: JFK Docs Show US Considered Attacks at Home to Blame on Cuba
The new round of documents on the Kennedy assassination shed light on the long-running U.S. government effort to overthrow Fidel Castro — including discussions to stage attacks on U.S. soil and blame Cuba

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20337:Homegrown-Terror%3A-JFK-Docs-Show-US-Considered-Attacks-at-Home-to-Blame-on-Cuba

Activists Acquitted in Effort to Prevent British Fighter Jet Delivery to Saudi Arabia
Quaker activist Sam Walton and Reverend Daniel Woodhouse were both acquitted by a UK Court following their arrest for their attempt to disarm Typhoon fighter jets at BAE Systems that were to be delivered to Saudi Arabia for its war in Yemen

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20328:Activists-Acquitted-in-Effort-to-Prevent-British-Fighter-Jet-Delivery-to-Saudi-Arabia

Government Continues to Seek Data from Reporter’s Cell Phone in Inauguration Protest
Reporter Aaron Cantu is among nearly 200 people to have data seized from phones
by Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20342:Government-Continues-to-Seek-Data-from-Reporter%27s-Cell-Phone-in-Inauguration-Protest

After Indictments, Where is Russiagate Headed?
Paul Manafort and former business partner Rick Gates, along with former Trump campaign advisor George Papadopoulos, have been the first people indicted in the Trump-Russia probe. Independent journalist Marcy Wheeler, economist James Henry, and TRNN’s Aaron Mate discuss

*I really feel my time is better spent elsewhere, but if I have to deal with this shit, I’m glad there’s someone like Maté to express a healthy skepticism about the dominant narrative.

And as I’ve said elsewhere, whatever the reality is, perhaps we should be more concerned with the collusion extant among the Yanks in the mishegas that is Trumplandia

‘Cause that’s what’s gonna get us killed.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20331:After-Indictments%2C-Where-is-Russiagate-Headed%3F
–

RootsAction
Tell Congress: Don’t Build a New Federal Prison on a Toxic Former Coal-Mining Site

https://act.rootsaction.org/p/dia/action4/common/public/?action_KEY=13111

10.30

Top Six Trump Admin Crimes That Ought to Bring Indictments
Their documented offenses have nothing to do with collusion with Russia, but somebody should lock these creeps up
by Juan Cole

*Maybe we should be more concerned about collusion with their fellow Americans?

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/30/top-six-trump-admin-crimes-ought-bring-indictments
–

From America With Love
U.S. commandos are a “persistent presence” on Russia’s doorstep
by Nick Turse

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/30/america-love
–

Food & Water Watch
Groups Denounce Energy Department’s Sneak Attack on Solar
DOE Study Designed to Undermine Net Metering

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/10/30/groups-denounce-energy-departments-sneak-attack-solar
–

The Real News Network
Why Urban Policing Cannot Be Reformed Pt. II: Making the Myth of Black Failure
A Real News investigation into intractable corruption in Baltimore explores the cultural and social imperatives that inform police driven narratives of African-Americans from zero tolerance to the ongoing war on drugs

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20334:Why-Urban-Policing-Cannot-Be-Reformed-Pt.-II%3A-Making-the-Myth-of-Black-Failure

The Prelude to the Russian Revolution of 1917
On the 100-year anniversary of the Russian Revolution, Prof. Aleksandr Buzgalin of Moscow State University provides the historical background for the events leading up to this world historical event

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20315:The-Prelude-to-the-Russian-Revolution-of-1917

As Cities Lose, Wall Street Wins Big
Mounting losses for the taxpayer backed Baltimore Convention Center Hotel make one thing clear – no matter how bad a deal performs, Wall Street always banks a profit

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20326:As-Cities-Lose%2C-Wall-Street-Wins-Big

Trump Expands Oil Drilling But Obama Paved the Way
Investigative journalist Steve Horn, of DeSmogBlog, exposes a new hire at the Interior Department, Todd Wynn, as right from the ranks of pro-fossil fuel, climate change denying, lobby group ALEC, which is funded by the oil billionaire Koch Brothers

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20300:Trump-Expands-Oil-Drilling-But-Obama-Paved-the-Way

Democracy in Crisis: Snoozing through Fascism
A slow-motion academic protest of fascism emerges after conference
by Baynard Woods

*Gentilizing genocide

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20325:Democracy-in-Crisis%3A-Snoozing-through-Fascism

Catalonia Vows to Resist Madrid’s Direct Rule
Expect to see acts of civil disobedience, resistance from public servants, and election boycotts in the weeks ahead – as well as criminal persecution of Catalonia’s political leaders, says Sebastiaan Faber of Oberlin College

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20323:Catalonia-Vows-to-Resist-Madrid%27s-Direct-Rule

Catalonian Independence: What are the Economic Stakes?
The conflict has a lot to do with Spain’s economic failure since the world financial crisis of 2008 and its impact on young people and the long-term unemployed, says Mark Weisbrot, co-director of the Center for Economic and Policy Research

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20318:Catalonian-Independence%3A-What-are-the-Economic-Stakes%3F
–

FAIR
‘We’ve Got to Break This Mindset That Policing Is the Only Tool’
CounterSpin interview with Alex Vitale on The End of Policing
by Janine Jackson

http://fair.org/home/weve-got-to-break-this-mindset-that-policing-is-the-only-tool

For NYT, Making the Democrats Safe for the Oligarchy Is Literally Job One
by Jim Naureckas

*All the neoliberalism that’s printed to fit

http://fair.org/home/for-nyt-making-the-democrats-safe-for-the-oligarchy-is-literally-job-one
–

Democracy Now!
Head of Puerto Rico Electrical Workers’ Union Demands Corruption Probe of Whitefish Energy Contract

*The stench of rotten Whitefish

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/30/head_of_puerto_rico_electrical_workers

Trump Admin Continues Threats & Provocations Against North Korea, Laying Groundwork for Nuclear War

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/30/trump_admin_continues_threats_provocations_against

10.27

The Real Network
Young Patriots and Redneck Revolt Set to Confront Fascists in Tennessee
Southern anti-fascists respond to White Lives Matter rally
by Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20322:Young-Patriots-and-Redneck-Revolt-Set-to-Confront-Fascists-in-Tennessee

Disney Union Workers Continue Fight For $15 An Hour
Orange County Police broke up a rally organized by labor unions last week calling on Disney to pay their employees a fair, livable wage
by Michael Sainato

*Disney workers, like fast food workers and those in many other areas, deserve a living wage and dignified working conditions

But ultimately, they need to be doing something else, for their labor, regardless of its context, serves the very forces that have made their struggles necessary.

Mind numbing entertainment, noxious comestibles and pernicious products and services are a dire danger to the commons, at whatever wage.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20320:Disney-Union-Workers-Continue-Fight-For-%2415-An-Hour

Trump’s Opioid Response Ignores Real Solutions
President Trump has declared the opioid crisis a public health emergency, but his ‘Just Say No’-like approach ignores the roots of addiction and proven ways to address it, says best-selling author Johann Hari

*Only a profoundly human response can cure a profoundly human condition

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20307:Trump%27s-Opioid-Response-Ignores-Real-Solutions

Twitter Bans RT and Sputnik Ads, Who’s Next?
Twitter has announced it will ban advertising from the Russian-backed media outlets RT and Sputnik. We speak to journalist and best-selling author Max Blumenthal

*Call it “Mad Dow Disease”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20309:Twitter-Bans-RT-and-Sputnik-Ads%2C-Who%27s-Next%3F

IMF Worried that High Inequality Could Threaten Global Capitalism
All income growth of the past few years is going to the top 10 percent, without paying more in taxes. IMF says that higher taxation of the top earners would not impinge on economic growth, explains economist Michael Roberts

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20280:IMF-Worried-that-High-Inequality-Could-Threaten-Global-Capitalism

British Government Wants to Criminalize Web Use
The British Government is set to expand terrorism offenses to include the act of viewing content online. Jim Killock of Open Rights Group says the move amounts to criminalizing thought

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20306:British-Government-Wants-to-Criminalize-Web-Use
–

Institute for Public Accuracy
Do Military Enlistees Actually “Know What They Are Getting into”?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/do-military-enlistees-actually-know-what-they-are-getting-into
–

Democracy Now!
Nick Turse: From Niger to Somalia, U.S. Military Expansion in Africa Helps Terror Groups Recruit

*How do you do a segment on this subject, and not talk about the continent’s resource wealth, which is the overarching reason the US is there (and France, China et alia ) – not “counterterrorism”?

Not the first time I’ve asked such a question about this program

And I’m certain it won’t be the last.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/27/nick_turse_from_niger_to_somalia

Neuroscientist Dr. Carl Hart: People Are Dying in Opioid Crisis Because of Politicians’ Ignorance

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/27/neuroscientist_dr_carl_hart_people_are

10.26

Take Your Tiny Fingers Off the Button, Trump
On nuclear nightmares past and present
by Rebecca Gordon

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/26/take-your-tiny-fingers-button-trump
–

The Real News Network
New Details Emerge About Gun Trace Task Force Crimes
In drug-case testimony, indicted officers offer details of corruption
by Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20308:New-Details-Emerge-About-Gun-Trace-Task-Force-Crimes

Wall Street Wins as Senate Blocks Consumer Protection Rule
The Senate voted 51-50 to repeal a rule that would have made it easier for consumers to sue the financial institutions that defraud them. The move is “outrageous,” says white-collar criminologist Bill Black. “It should be a national scandal, and require resignations in disgrace”

*Ruling class action

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20299:Wall-Street-Wins-as-Senate-Blocks-Consumer-Protection-Rule

Democrats Funded the Steele Dossier that Fueled Russiagate
After months of obfuscation, the Washington Post reveals that the Clinton campaign and the DNC funded the infamous Steele dossier at the heart of Russiagate. Empty Wheel’s Marcy Wheeler and TRNN’s Aaron Mate discuss

*My eyes glaze over on this shit, but I suppose it’s worth sharing.

So what’s the takeaway, regardless of what you think of the authenticity of the intel?

Trump’s corrupt?

Duh.

Trump’s a traitor?

Every president has been, in the sense of betraying the actual interests of the people of this country.

The maniac’s leaning toward World War III and trying desperately to domestically dismantle anything that in any way mitigates our exploitation, as well as the few crumbs tossed our way in the name of “the general welfare”.

Let’s focus laser like on that, and just maybe we can dodge The Mother of All Bullets ™

At least until the earth tells us all to go fuck ourselves.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20304:Democrats-Funded-the-Steele-Dossier-that-Fueled-Russiagate

Why do Far-Right White Nationalists Support Zionism?
The state of Israel is a model for the extreme right in the US and in Europe

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20302:Why-do-Far-Right-White-Nationalists-Support-Zionism%3F
–

Institute for Public Accuracy
Balfour Declaration at 100: Cause of Mideast Instability?

http://www.accuracy.org/release/balfour-declaration-at-100-cause-of-mideast-instability

Effects of Russia Demonization

*The exception of the rulers

http://www.accuracy.org/release/effects-of-russia-demonization
–

Democracy Now!
FCC Enables Faster Media Consolidation as Pro-Trump Sinclair Group Seizes Even More Local Stations

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/26/fcc_eliminates_rules_preventing_media_consolidation

Undocumented Teen Wins Abortion Fight, But Thousands in Shelters Still Live Under Anti-Choice Policy

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/26/undocumented_teen_wins_fight_to_get

10.25

With Kids’ Screen Time Surging, New Project Aims to Challenge Corporate Profiteering
“Often missing from the story about screen time is that the entities who benefit most from children being on screens are corporations and marketers”
by Andrea Germanos, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/25/kids-screen-time-surging-new-project-aims-challenge-corporate-profiteering

With a Straight Face, Trump Blames Media for Perception He Is ‘Uncivil’
In latest bizarre press avail, president brags about his “intelligence” and Ivy League education while blaming media for those who think poorly of his behavior
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Presidents have always been dishonest, frequently reckless, and occasionally unstable, yet few would agree with that assertion due in large measure to how the corpress has hagiographed the office and its occupant.

This applies as well to His Travesty, when it’s deemed that his actions, no matter how vile, bolster the power structure the mainstream media serve. When they don’t, we get a glimpse of the emperor’s new clothes.

So the bastard has a point, however perverse his intent in making it.

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/25/though-one-great-memories-all-time-trump-cant-think-anything-uncivil-he-might-ever

‘Bush No Better’ Than Trump: Gold Star Mom Cindy Sheehan Decries Whitewashing of Warmonger
“Where is the movement to oppose U.S. wars, instead of liberal handwringing over botched messages of condolence?”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/24/bush-no-better-trump-gold-star-mom-cindy-sheehan-decries-whitewashing-warmonger

Ahead of EU Glyphosate Vote, Greenpeace Demands Nothing Less Total Ban
Environmentalists celebrate parliament’s vote for outright ban while warning against executive arm’s proposed compromise
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/24/ahead-eu-glyphosate-vote-greenpeace-demands-nothing-less-total-ban

Sen. Lindsey Graham ‘Didn’t Know’ About Niger? He Should Read More Nick Turse and TomDispatch
What U.S. Senators Don’t Know (and Neither Do You) About What the Pentagon Is Doing in Africa
by Jon Queally, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/24/sen-lindsey-graham-didnt-know-about-niger-he-should-read-more-nick-turse-and
–

Smells Like Environmental Racism
That stench permeating Detroit? It’s other cities’ burning trash
by Valerie Vande Panne

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/25/smells-environmental-racism
–

Letter from Najaf, Iraq
by Cathy Breen

http://vcnv.org/2017/10/24/cathy-breens-letter-from-najaf-iraq
–

Global Warming ‘Costing Taxpayers Billions.’ Here’s How to Fix It.
“The soil solution”
by Ronnie Cummins

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/24/global-warming-costing-taxpayers-billions-heres-how-fix-it
–

My Guantánamo Diary, Uncensored
“Who am I now, thanks to my lawyers, my family and friends, my publishers, and my readers, is a free man”
by Mohamedou Ould Slahi

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/24/my-guantanamo-diary-uncensored
–

The Four Stages of the Antiwar Movement
The 10-year movement to end Vietnam was a complex phenomenon that evolved strategically as circumstances changed
by Bill Zimmerman

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/24/four-stages-antiwar-movement
–

Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law and Latino Justice PRLDEF Announce Settlement of Major Voting Rights Lawsuit in New York
Consent Decree Requires NYC Board of Elections To Restore The Rights Of Unlawfully Purged Voters

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/10/25/lawyers-committee-and-latino-justice-prldef-announce-settlement-major-voting

Environment America
“This Proposal Would Re-Open a Pollution Loophole Big Enough to Drive a Truck Through”

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/10/24/proposal-would-re-open-pollution-loophole-big-enough-drive-truck-through

Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS)
The Disinformation Playbook: New Website Exposes Tactics of Attacks on Science
From asbestos to sugar, industry efforts to sideline science follow a familiar pattern

*Blinding us without science

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/10/24/disinformation-playbook-new-website-exposes-tactics-attacks-science
–

The Real News Network
For Russiagaters, Do Black Lives Matter?
The media has been flooded with reports that alleged Russian trolls tried to influence Black Lives Matter. Historian Gerald Horne and attorney Anoa Chango discuss the use of the black struggle for the Russiagate narrative and its historical context

For Russiagaters, Do Black Lives Matter?
The media has been flooded with reports that alleged Russian trolls tried to influence Black Lives Matter. Historian Gerald Horne and attorney Anoa Chango discuss the use of the black struggle for the Russiagate narrative and its historical context

*Apparently no one took the time to proofread this transcript, which is execrable.

TRNN had shown improvement in this area. I hope this isn’t evidence of backsliding.

I can make sense of most of it, but I’ve got decades of experience to call on. What about the folks who are new to this, trying to understand what the fuck is going on in the world?

Information does you no good if you can’t decipher it.

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20297:For-Russiagaters%2C-Do-Black-Lives-Matter%3F

Maryland Governor Signs Executive Order Opposing BDS Movement
The growing number of anti-BDS laws across the U.S. should be seen “in the larger context of this very well-resourced effort to shut down the entire grassroots movement for Palestinian rights,” says Palestine Legal Director Dima Khalidi

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20294:Maryland-Governor-Signs-Executive-Order-Opposing-BDS-Movement

Democracy in Crisis: J20 Body Cam Footage No Longer Protected, Despite Prosecution Fears
Despite releasing information about protesters, federal prosecutors claim making publicly funded videos public could endanger officers
by Baynard Woods

*The iron fist

And the velvet curtain

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20296:Democracy-in-Crisis%3A-J20-Body-Cam-Footage-No-Longer-Protected%2C-Despite-Prosecution-Fears

Where’s the ‘Resistance’ for J20 Protesters?
The first of some 200 protesters, legal observers, and journalists at the J20 anti-Trump Inauguration Day protest are set to go on trial. Although they face decades behind bars and unprecedented legal maneuvering, their case has mostly been ignored

*MoveOn moves on

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20278:Where%27s-the-%27Resistance%27-for-J20-Protesters%3F
–

FAIR
Reposting Amazon Press Releases at Bezos-Owned Washington Post
by Adam Johnson

*Not to mention (literally) the down sides of an Amazon adventure

http://fair.org/home/reposting-amazon-press-releases-at-bezos-owned-washington-post

‘The Winner of the Amazon Headquarters Might End Up Being the Biggest Loser’
CounterSpin interview with Neil deMause on Amazon bidding war
by Janine Jackson

*And don’t hold your breath waiting for this headline in the corpress

“A Fox Conn in Wisconsin”

‘Cause I ain’t gonna resuscitate you if you do.

http://fair.org/home/the-winner-of-the-amazon-headquarters-might-end-up-being-the-biggest-loser

10.24

Sex, Rage Displacement, and Ecocide: Wanderings in an Interior Archipelago of the Colonized
What is the common prayer for those who cannot close themselves off from the agonized soul of the colonized world?
by Phil Rockstroh

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/23/sex-rage-displacement-and-ecocide-wanderings-interior-archipelago-colonized
–

Power for Puerto Ricans, Not Private Investors
Powered by renewables, a resilient and sustainable system can be built that genuinely puts the Puerto Rican people in charge of their energy
by Johanna Bozuwa

*Excellent piece on a topic that gets next to no attention in the “alternative media”

Just who gets the green from greening?

“Green” corps may provide a “clean” product, in an environmental sense, but their labor and profit practices have a distinctly darker hue.

Power – electrical and political – belongs in the hands of the people.

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/23/power-puerto-ricans-not-private-investors
–

The Real News Network
Spain to Take ‘Nuclear Option’ on Catalonia
Spain’s central government went ‘even more nuclear than anybody had expected’ when it announced plans to completely strip Catalonia of its autonomy, says Professor Sebastiaan Faber of Oberlin College

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20291:Spain-to-Take-%27Nuclear-Option%27-on-Catalonia
–

Democracy Now!
Puerto Rican Climate Activist: Aid Being Unfairly Distributed & Superfund Sites Continue to Overflow

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/24/puerto_rican_climate_activist_aid_being

Expansion of Imperialist U.S. “War on Terror” in Africa Preceded Deadly Attacks in Niger & Somalia

*It’s a “War for Terror”

Because in the empire game, you can’t boogie without a boogeyman

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/24/expansion_of_imperialist_us_war_on

Horace Campbell on US Disregard for Black Lives, from “War on Terror” in Africa to Green Beret Widow

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/24/horace_campbell_us_war_on_terror
–

Natural Approaches for Preventing & Treating Cancer in Dogs and Cats
by Ty Bollinger

https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/cancer-in-dogs-and-cats

10/23

Brazilian Presidential Hopeful’s US Trip Ends in Failure
His Candidacy Results from the Collapse of Brazilian Democracy
by Mark Weisbrot

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/225-mark-weisbrot/3360–brazilian-presidential-hopefuls-us-trip-ends-in-failure
–

The Real News Network
Real Media: Fintech & Your Reputation
Tom Fisher of Privacy International explains how financial technology companies are making assessments from the data that users create online, and how these judgements can be discriminatory and ultimately affect users’ credit ratings

*Information overlord

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20285:Real-Media%3A-Fintech-%26-Your-Reputation

DNC Has No Intention to Abolish Undemocratic Super Delegates
The Democratic National Committee and DNC Unity Reform Commission have continued to dismiss calls to abolish super delegates as a compromise to reduce their influence is still under debate
by Michael Sainato

*Sandersismo

As “uncompromising” as it is “socialist”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20289:DNC-Has-No-Intention-to-Abolish-Undemocratic-Super-Delegates

IMF’s Concern with Equality Not Reflected in Its Policy Recommendations
Recently the IMF’s analyses have shown greater concern about the dramatic rise in inequality, but its policy recommendations do not reflect this and make the problem worse, explains economist Mark Weisbrot of CEPR

*”Special economic zones” will break our bones

And words will never help us

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20274:IMF%27s-Concern-with-Equality-Not-Reflected-in-Its-Policy-Recommendations

Empire Files: After Hurricane Harvey, Abandoned Community Takes Charge
Abby Martin travels to Houston one month after Hurricane Harvey, long after the cameras left, and reveals the untold stories of how, while abandoned by the state, the community banded together to save lives and rebuild their homes

*The true looting comes with Houston’s “rebirth”

See “New Orleans Renaissance”

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20259:Empire-Files%3A-After-Hurricane-Harvey%2C-Abandoned-Community-Takes-Charge

Richard Spencer’s White Supremacy Rally Flops Under Pressure From Protesters
Outnumbered and overshadowed, Richard Spencer and his white supremacist supporters are shouted down and booed out of Gainesville, Florida
by Michael Sainato

*When “white flight” is a right sight

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20283:Richard-Spencer%27s-White-Supremacy-Rally-Flops-Under-Pressure-From-Protesters

Time for Politicians to Stop Deficit Fearmongering
The common misconception is that the government is doing something wrong when it runs a deficit, but what most people don’t understand is that there’s a matching surplus in another part of the economy, says economist Stephanie Kelton

*Deficit spinning

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20277:Time-for-Politicians-to-Stop-Deficit-Fearmongering
–

Institute for Public Accuracy
CIA Expanding in Afghanistan: “Brutally Subjugate and Punish the People”

http://www.accuracy.org/release/cia-expanding-in-afghanistan-brutally-subjugate-and-punish-the-people
–

Democracy Now!
Trump’s Proposed Tax Overhaul Would Give Billions to Trump & Cabinet While Sparking Global “Tax War”

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/23/trumps_proposed_tax_overhaul_would_give
–

Top 4 Natural Remedies for Type 2 Diabetes
by Yuri Elkaim

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cCy4fHfBbk&feature=youtu.be

10/20

Taking 9 Million Lives Per Year, Pollution Bigger Killer Than War, Tobacco, and Various Diseases Combined
New Lancet Commission spotlights “profound and pervasive threat that affects many aspects of human health and wellbeing”
by Andrea Germanos, staff writer
Common Dreams

*”[U]nintended consequence”?

Is a broken nose an unintended consequence of punching someone in the face?

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/20/taking-9-million-lives-year-pollution-bigger-killer-war-tobacco-and-various-diseases

Under Trump, Brags Mike Pompeo, CIA Will Be ‘Much More Vicious Agency’
Trump “has promised that he will have our backs,” says CIA head
by Andrea Germanos, staff writer
Common Dreams

*The ghosts of the past

And the spooks of the present

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/20/under-trump-brags-mike-pompeo-cia-will-be-much-more-vicious-agency

‘Hypocritical BS’: Critics Slam Establishment’s Applause for ‘War Criminal’ George W. Bush
“The Iraq War was worse than anything Donald Trump has done (so far)”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*Substitute “Barack Obama” for “George W. Bush” in this piece, and the point would remain essentially the same

Nobel “Peace” Prize notwithstanding.

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/20/hypocritical-bs-critics-slam-establishments-applause-war-criminal-george-w-bush
–

Diagnosing the Donald
by Andrew Levine

http://www.therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/3358
–

The Real News Network
Trump’s Would-Be Drug Czar Helped the Drug Profiteers
Rep. Tom Marino has withdrawn his nomination as President Trump’s new drug czar after revelations he pushed through a measure that worsened the U.S. opioid epidemic. White-collar criminologist Bill Black says Marino and other lawmakers have been bought off by pharmaceutical companies he says have acted as “illicit, criminal, drug dealers”

*If Maté’s correct in saying Marino’s bill “basically passed unanimously”, then a lot of “progressive champions” signed off on it.

Will any of the “#Resistance” groups hold them accountable for doing so?

Is that a rhetorical question?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20257:Trump%27s-Would-Be-Drug-Czar-Helped-the-Drug-Profiteers

Expelling ISIS from Raqqa Does Not End ISIS–or Syrian War
The U.S.-backed SDF has declared victory in Raqqa after a long battle that left the city in ruins. But the loss of Raqqa does not mean the end of ISIS, says Charles Glass

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20266:Expelling-ISIS-from-Raqqa-Does-Not-End-ISIS–or-Syrian-War

For Ordinary Greeks, Has Greece’s Battered Economy Turned the Corner?
Greece’s Syriza Government claims the economy is improving, but many Athenians do not agree

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20260:For-Ordinary-Greeks%2C-Has-Greece%27s-Battered-Economy-Turned-the-Corner%3F
–

Democracy Now!
Fearing Deportation, Immigrants Fleeing California Wildfires Avoid Shelters & Face Homelessness

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/20/immigrants_fleeing_california_wildfires_find_no

Urban Conflagration: Fire Scientist on Climate Change & What Makes California’s Wildfires Different

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/20/fire_scientist_time_to_take_different

10/19

‘Ecological Armageddon’: Warnings From Scientists as Flying Insects Disappear
As new report shows flying insect population plunged by 76 percent, author predicts “our grandchildren will inherit a profoundly impoverished world”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/19/ecological-armageddon-warnings-scientists-flying-insects-disappear
–

New Study Shows Glyphosate Contaminated Soils Put Half of Europe at Risk
“Agribusiness giants have always interfered in the decisions of governments and international regulatory agencies in order to increase their profits from the agrichemicals market, as well as to keep their control on the food market”
by Ruchi Shroff

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/19/new-study-shows-glyphosate-contaminated-soils-put-half-europe-risk
–

A Country, and a Future, Worth Serving
Why is it that the American public has no say in the wars this country commits itself to?
by Robert C. Koehler

*Despite “the Vietnam Syndrome”, the American public has never lost faith in that most deified of institutions – the US military

And until the scales fall from our benighted eyes

The bombs and missiles will continue to fall from foreign skies.

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/19/country-and-future-worth-serving
–

The Blueprint for the Most Radical City on the Planet
“If we do not save the environment, then whatever we do in civil rights, or in a war against poverty, then whatever we do will be of no meaning because then we will have the equality of extinction”
by Bill Quigley

*You see the occasional piece on Jackson – where I used to live – in the relatively visible “alternative media”, but far less than what one hopes is happening there should merit

And you have to wonder just why that is, don’t you?

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/19/blueprint-most-radical-city-planet
–

The Real News Network
Dakota Access Pipeline Fight Continues After Court Ruling
Danny Sheehan and Chase Iron Eyes, with the Lakota People’s Law Project, discuss the ongoing legal battles in the fight to stop the Dakota Access Pipeline
by Michael Sainato

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20264:Dakota-Access-Pipeline-Fight-Continues-After-Court-Ruling

Secretive Billionaire Wants to Expand Fossil Fuel Empire in the US
James Ratcliffe, the billionaire owner of the chemical giant Ineos Corporation, is pushing for a dangerous pipeline through Pennsylvania, while the company quietly works to start fracking operations in Scotland and the UK, says Food & Water Watch’s Patrick Woodall

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20250:Secretive-Billionaire-Wants-to-Expand-Fossil-Fuel-Empire-in-the-US

Powerful Police Union Blocks Modest Civilian Oversight Reform
A recent contract negotiated by the Baltimore with the police union left out a key provision that would have included a civilian on internal disciplinary boards, a move that has caused concern that long-awaited reform efforts have stalled

*Is it fair to say that Pugh supports “progress”

Only when she knows it has little chance of progressing?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20261:Powerful-Police-Union-Blocks-Modest-Civilian-Oversight-Reform
–

Color of Change and Guns Down
Stop the NRA’s #MurderInsurance Scheme

https://stopmurderinsurance.org/?source=COC1
–

FAIR
‘They Have a Systematic Campaign to Ethnically Cleanse the Entire Rohingya Population’
CounterSpin interview with Azeem Ibrahim on Rohingya ethnic cleansing
by Janine Jackson

*All the players have a stake

And they’re driving it through the hearts of the Rohingya

http://fair.org/home/they-have-a-systematic-campaign-to-ethnically-cleanse-the-entire-rohingya-population
–

Democracy Now!
Trump’s Travel Ban Suffers Another Defeat as Judges Say Threat of Discrimination “Still Intact”

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/19/trumps_travel_ban_suffers_another_defeat

Who Profits from the Opioid Crisis? Meet the Secretive Sackler Family Making Billions from OxyContin

*The Sacklers may crave personal anonymity, but they’re not averse to having their name plastered on very public institutions, are they?

And so, don’t you feel it’s disingenuous for those eager to facilitate that, in return for their blood money, to claim ignorance of just where the genesis of that lucre lies?

Any such assertion evinces a wilful blindness, doesn’t it? If you’re going to slap the name of a benefactor on your hallowed halls, shouldn’t you be curious as to the source of their largesse?

That’s presupposes some sense of institutional ethics, of course.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/19/who_profits_from_the_opioid_crisis

Guantánamo Prisoners on Hunger Strike Say Guards Threatened to Kill Them by Stopping Force-Feeding

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/19/guantanamo_detainees_on_hunger_strike_say

10/18

As Trump Denies 17-Year-Old Abortion Access, Court Battle Exposes Broader Problem
As undocumented teen is held “hostage” by government officials, ACLU challenge exposes cruelty of administration’s anti-choice policies
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/18/trump-denies-17-year-old-abortion-access-court-battle-exposes-broader-problem
–

Insider Threat Program Training and Trump’s War on Leaks: A Chilling Combination for Whistleblowers
by Jesselyn Radack and Kathleen McClellan

*Maybe instead of focusing on the lack of “damage”

We should highlight the degree of benefit?

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/704-jesselyn-radack-and-kathleen-mcclellan/3356-insider-threat-program-training-and-trumps-war-on-leaks-a-chilling-combination-for-whistleblowers
–

The Real News Network
56 Years After Paris Massacre, State Racism Lives On In France
On October 17th, 1961, hundreds of French Algerians were killed when French authorities attacked a large protest. France’s racist legacy continues with the profiling and targeting of France’s Muslims today, says human rights advocate Yasser Louati

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20246:56-Years-After-Paris-Massacre%2C-State-Racism-Lives-On-In-France

Bridge Over Troubled Water:
How the far right acts as a “bridge phenomenon” for white supremacists
by Baynard Woods

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20251:Bridge-Over-Troubled-Water%3A
–

Fe y Justicia Worker Center
Support Migrant Workers Rebuilding after Hurricane Harvey

https://reconstructionworkstx.org/make-a-donation
–

FAIR
No, US Didn’t ‘Stand By’ Indonesian Genocide—It Actively Participated
by Jim Naureckas

*Those who control the corpress don’t have “a blind spot”

They have an empty one

Where their soul should be.

http://fair.org/home/no-us-didnt-stand-by-indonesian-genocide-it-actively-participated
–

Democracy Now!
As Puerto Rico Faces $95 Billion Cleanup, Exposé Reveals Vulture Firms Who Own Its $74 Billion Debt

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/18/as_puerto_rico_faces_95_billion

Freed Puerto Rican Political Prisoner Oscar López Rivera on U.S. Colonialism After Hurricane Maria

*Disasters are a greedy ghoul’s best friend

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/18/freed_puerto_rican_political_prisoner_oscar

Rosa Clemente on Puerto Ricans Drinking Toxic Water & San Juan Mayor’s Message to the Diaspora

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/18/rosa_clemente_on_puerto_ricans_drinking

Why Are Women Prisoners Battling California Wildfires for as Little as $1 a Day?

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/18/why_are_incarcerated_women_battling_california

10/17

Victory for ‘Valve Turners’ as Judge Allows ‘Necessity Defense’ for Climate Trial
“The whole planet will be inside a single courtroom the day this trial begins,” says Bill McKibben. “It’s a rare chance to explain precisely why we need to act, and act now.”
by Jessica Corbett, staff writer
Common Dreams

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/17/victory-valve-turners-judge-allows-necessity-defense-climate-trial

‘Stop Fawning’: Critics Say McCain’s ‘Jingoistic Revisionism’ Nothing to Applaud
“McCain’s speech was designed to flatter Americans with self-glorifying tales of exceptionalism and nobility. And of course, it worked”
by Jake Johnson, staff writer
Common Dreams

*McCain’s entire political career has been based on being a prisoner of war

And ensuring the world remains one

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/17/stop-fawning-critics-say-mccains-jingoistic-revisionism-nothing-applaud

To Halt ‘Race to the Bottom’ Bidding War, Community Leaders Issue Key Demands to Amazon
“We built these cities, and we want to make sure they remain ours”
by Julia Conley, staff writer
Common Dreams

*A better deal with the devil still leaves you on the path to hell

https://www.commondreams.org/news/2017/10/17/halt-race-bottom-bidding-war-community-leaders-issue-key-demands-amazon
–

The Real News Network
Why didn’t Kurdish Forces Fight Back the Iraqi Invasion​ of Kirkuk?
The Iraqi military quickly conquered the oil-rich area of Kirkuk in an effort to block Kurdish statehood. But why didn’t Kurdish forces put up more of a fight? TRNN speaks with Patrick Cockburn, Middle East correspondent for the Independent

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20238:Why-didn%27t-Kurdish-Forces-Fight-Back-the-Iraqi-Invasion%26%238203%3B-of-Kirkuk%3F

Venezuelan Regional Election: Opposition Claims Fraud in Areas They Won
The governing United Socialist Party of Venezuela won 17 out of 23 governor races in Sunday’s regional vote, prompting the opposition to claim fraud once again, without evidence. Lucas Koerner of Venezuelanlaysis.com analyzes the situation

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20240:Venezuelan-Regional-Election%3A-Opposition-Claims-Fraud-in-Areas-They-Won

Many Parties Complicit in Rohingya Ethnic Cleansing
The persecution of Rohingya Muslims goes beyond religious intolerance, says Dr. Elizabeth Hurd, professor of politics at Northwestern University

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20241:Many-Parties-Complicit-in-Rohingya-Ethnic-Cleansing
–

Democracy Now!
Mogadishu Massacre: Hospitals Run Out of Blood, Antibiotics for Victims in Mass Bombing Killing 300+

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/17/mogadishu_massacre_hospitals_run_out_of

Meet Tarana Burke, Activist Who Started “Me Too” Campaign to Ignite Conversation on Sexual Assault

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/17/meet_tarana_burke_the_activist_who

10/16

2 or 3 Things I Know About Late-Stage Capitalism
(With apologies to Jean-Luc Godard)
by Phil Rockstroh

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/16/2-or-3-things-i-know-about-late-stage-capitalism
–

Mexicans Denounce Canadian Mega-Mining Projects
by Richard Fidler

http://www.therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/3354
–

The Political Economy of Obama/Trump
by Richard D. Wolff

http://www.therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/3353
–

Food & Water Watch
New Report Illustrates Why USDA Must Not Allow Chinese Poultry or Brazilian Fresh Meat Imports
Inspector General Finds Weak FSIS Oversight of Equivalence

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/10/16/new-report-illustrates-why-usda-must-not-allow-chinese-poultry-or-brazilian
–

The Real News Network
Florida Governor Declares State of Emergency Ahead of White Nationalist’s Speech
The University of Florida has taken several measures that benefit white supremacist Richard Spencer and his alt-right group ahead of their October 19 event on campus

*Tropical storm trooper

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20236:Florida-Governor-Declares-State-of-Emergency-Ahead-of-White-Nationalist%27s-Speech

As the Rich Get Richer, Public Schools Suffer
During a hearing on how to create more equitable funding for public schools in Maryland officials revealed how tax breaks for wealthy developers in Baltimore could threaten future funding

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20233:As-the-Rich-Get-Richer%2C-Public-Schools-Suffer

Organizers and Activists Gather in Chicago to Launch a New Network
The ‘National Workers Conference to Organize the Fightback’ met in Chicago Oct. 6-8, to share experiences and to launch a new solidarity network

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20228:Organizers-and-Activists-Gather-in-Chicago-to-Launch-a-New-Network

Empire Files: Rosa Clemente & Abby Martin – No Savior in 2020
Renowned Afro-Latinx leader Rosa Clemente sits down with Abby Martin to discuss her experience running for Vice President, organizing in the Trump era, advice for new activists, identity politics and more

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20211:Empire-Files%3A-Rosa-Clemente-%26-Abby-Martin—No-Savior-in-2020

Real Media: The Value of Data
Tom Fisher of Privacy International talks to Real Media about why and how companies are able to exploit users’ personal data

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20209:Real-Media%3A-The-Value-of-Data

Real Media: Councils, Kickbacks, and the KCTMO
Financial journalist Joel Benjamin discusses evidence passed to the Grenfell inquiry regarding the connections between KCTMO ex-Councilor Tom Fairhead, Rona Fairhead, Council Tax Rebate schemes, and HSBC

*Call it the lifeblood money of the profit system

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20208:Real-Media%3A-Councils%2C-Kickbacks%2C-and-the-KCTMO

Colombian State Escalates Violence Against Activists
Coca cultivation and the lack of alternatives to escape poverty continue to lie at the root of the ongoing violence in Colombia, despite the peace accords, explains Mario Murillo of Hofstra University

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20219:Colombian-State-Escalates-Violence-Against-Activists

Climate Change and Fire Suppression Fuel Deadliest Blazes in California History
Professor Matthew Hurteau says 100 years of fire suppression and human-caused climate change are fueling California’s historic wildfires

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20226:Climate-Change-and-Fire-Suppression-Fuel-Deadliest-Blazes-in-California-History

US and Israel Show UNESCO their Anti-Palestinian Bias
The U.S. and Israel are pulling out of UNESCO over what they call an ‘anti-Israel bias,’ but the move may actually underscore their bias towards basic Palestinian rights. Meanwhile, Palestinian factions Fatah and Hamas have reached a new unity deal

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20222:US-and-Israel-Show-UNESCO-their-Anti-Palestinian-Bias
–

Institute for Public Accuracy
Is “Fake News” Scare Being Used to Stifle Dissent?

*This doesn’t drip with irony

It’s a three minute piss

http://www.accuracy.org/release/62207

10/13

Taxing the Wealthy to Pay for Universal Home Care
Activists in Maine are mobilizing to a path-breaking proposal on the 2018 ballot that would fund in-home services for the states elderly and disabled
by Sarah Anderson

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/13/taxing-wealthy-pay-universal-home-care

The Hindu right tries to suffocate Indian politics, but runs into a wall on the left
by Vijay Prashad

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/132-more-blog-posts-from-vijay-prashad/3352-indias-hindu-right-wing-extremists-are-increasingly-turning-to-violence-
–

Costa Rica’s Banco Popular Shows how Banks can be Democratic, Green – and Financially Sustainable
by Thomas Marois

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/703-thomas-marois/3351–costa-ricas-banco-popular-shows-how-banks-can-be-democratic-green-and-financially-sustainable
–

Loyalty to the Don
by Andrew Levine

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/379-andrew-levine/3350-loyalty-to-the-don
–

The Real News Network
Trump’s Obamacare Sabotage Burdens the Sickest
President Trump’s new effort to undermine Obamacare through “association plans” would increase the healthcare costs of those who need it most, says Michael Lighty of National Nurses United

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20213:Trump%27s-Obamacare-Sabotage-Burdens-the-Sickest

US-Cuba Relations Unravel as State Dept Alleges ‘Sonic Attack’
While the accusations against Cuba sound like ‘something out of a bad sci-fi film,’ the impact of reducing diplomatic staff in Havana and Washington DC has serious consequences for relations between the two countries, explains Prof. Michael Bustamante

*I’d have liked to have heard some “real news” about what effect US “business interests” will have on the elements of Cuban socialism that provide visceral benefits to the people.

As with Iran, this uncritical approach to any “rapprochement” overlooks just what the US hopes to gain from it

And it ain’t got diddley to do with “detente”, do it?

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20212:US-Cuba-Relations-Unravel-as-State-Dept-Alleges-%27Sonic-Attack%27

10/12

National Nurses United
Nurses Call for Stepped Up Federal Effort on Fires

*Neo Nero fiddles while Cali burns

https://www.commondreams.org/newswire/2017/10/12/nurses-call-stepped-federal-effort-fires
–

The Real News Network
UK Activist Convicted Under Terror Law for Refusing ‘Digital Strip-Search’
The British anti-terrorism measure Schedule 7 has just been used to convict Muhammad Rabbani for an offense that has nothing to do with terrorism: refusing to give authorities his computer password

*Orwell turns over in his grave

And bumps into Kafka

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20196:UK-Activist-Convicted-Under-Terror-Law-for-Refusing-%27Digital-Strip-Search%27
–

FAIR
Corporate Media Have Few Apologies for Getting IRS Scandal Backwards
by Justin Anderson

*”Democracy Dies in Darkness”

And we control the light switch

http://fair.org/home/corporate-media-have-few-apologies-for-getting-irs-scandal-backwards
–

Democracy Now!
Tomi-Ann Roberts on Her Encounter with Harvey Weinstein & the Shame Women Feel After Assault

*You think Dear Misleader and Madame Mayhem didn’t know?

Possible, I suppose, but certain that they didn’t want to know.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/12/tomi_ann_roberts_on_her_encounter

Louise Godbold: “My Encounter with Harvey Weinstein and What It Tells Us About Trauma”

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/12/louise_godbold_my_encounter_with_harvey

NBC Reportedly Axed the Harvey Weinstein Story as Hollywood Made Rape Survivors the Butt of Jokes

*It’s not just men women shouldn’t trust to be allies, is it?

A count of the contradictions of female pols and public figures who get a stamp of approval from mainstream “feminist” groups would make “War and Peace” look like an advert insert.

https://www.democracynow.org/2017/10/12/nbc_reportedly_axed_the_harvey_weinstein

10/11

Your Boss Shouldn’t Get to Have ‘Religious’ Objections to Your Health Care
Expanding “corporate citizen” rights into health care could ultimately affect everybody, not just women
by Martha Burk

https://www.commondreams.org/views/2017/10/11/your-boss-shouldnt-get-have-religious-objections-your-health-care
–

Che in Bolivia: a Rough Draft of History
by Richard Gott

http://therealnews.com/t2/component/content/article/702-richard-gott/3349-che-in-bolivia-a-rough-draft-of-history
–

The Real News Network
Trump Targets Hezbollah, and ISIS May Benefit
The Trump administration is offering a bounty on two Hezbollah leaders and making unfounded warnings of a potential attack by the group “on the homeland.” Author and Trinity College professor Vijay Prashad says the US targeting of Hezbollah may ultimately benefit groups like ISIS

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20197:Trump-Targets-Hezbollah%2C-and-ISIS-May-Benefit

A Way Out for Spain and Catalonia?
The Catalan leadership has stopped short of declaring independence from Spain, calling instead for talks with the Spanish government. We speak to Fusion host Nando Vila and Professor Sebastiaan Faber of Oberlin College

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20195:A-Way-Out-for-Spain-and-Catalonia%3F

Anti-Nuclear Group Wins Nobel Peace Prize as US Arsenal Expands
As the Nobel Peace Prize is awarded to a group that was instrumental in pushing through the landmark UN treaty banning nuclear weapons, the U.S. has quietly made its nuclear arsenal even more lethal

http://therealnews.com/t2/story:20190:Anti-Nuclear-Group-Wins-Nobel-Peace-Prize-as-US-Arsenal-Expands

Judge Reconsiders Gag Order in J20 Case
First amendment issues are at stake in a hearing to reassess a protective