Morning Blog &#8212; 11-20-2014

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34853657

Paris attacks: Police in deadly swoop on apartment in northern suburb

Author

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34826117

Paris attacks: Police seek ‘dangerous’ Salah Abdeslam

Member

Author

Loved it, Nirek! Thanks for posting it.

Peace always.

Admin

This is like a flashback to the sixties, isn’t it? 😀 (The best parts of the sixties, that is!)

Thanks so much for posting, Nirek.

Bernie did well in the debate Saturday night, I thought.

Author

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34825080

UPDATE:

Paris attacks: Omar Ismail Mostefai identified as assailant

Author

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34823938

Paris attacks: Prosecutor Molins says three teams involved

Author

http://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2015/nov/14/paris-terror-attacks-attackers-dead-mass-killing-live-updates

Paris attacks

Paris terror attacks: eight attackers dead after killing at least 120 people – live updates

Author

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34814203

Paris attacks: Dozens dead and Bataclan hostage stand-off

Admin

AdLib

This is so horrible, Kalima. Just heard that police raided the night club, killed all 4 terrorists but over 100 were killed in the night club alone. All together, maybe more than 150 killed in all the attacks.

Just horrific.

Author

Hi AdLib.

Have been watching the BBC since I woke up and yes, about 100 people were killed in the concert hall and about 50 in 7 locations in Paris. It was only in January when the Charlie Hebdo attack happened.

Will post updates here but believe that the link will update automatically. France has closed its borders and declared a state of emergency. These terrorists are such cowards killing innocents in their senseless attacks.

Admin

Kalima, I’ve also been following this story all afternoon and evening. Really awful.

I’m so hoping that things are winding down now that the police have ended the stand off.

Prayers for the people of Paris — and of course Beirut and Syria… Well, really the people of the world. Violence everywhere.

Author

Thought you must be following it too, Kes.

Latest report is that the terrorist shot and threw explosives at the hostages, 5 terrorists are dead, and about 140 are dead in the attacks but the numbers keep changing.

Cowardly is the only word that can describe attacks on the unsuspecting public.

Now of course the talk is if these people were domestic or came over in the groups of refugees. Sad for those people fleeing their war torn countries.

Hubby leaves for Germany next week and you can’t help yourself from worrying.

Admin

Cowardly is most definitely the word for it. Awful.

I can only hope that France can find out quickly what happened here and that there are no dire repercussions for refugees all over Europe who really are fleeing just this very sort of violence.

Needless to say, many prayers for your Hubby as he travels next week. Traveling almost anywhere these days is a risky business. Sad to say…

Prayers that the world comes to its senses soon.

Author

Thank you Kes, I think he will be ok.

I’ve posted the latest from The Guardian at the top of the thread. 8 terrorists dead, 127 people dead and over 200 injured, 80 of them critically. That 8 men could cause so much carnage in the 40 minutes from the first attack until the last at the concert hall, seems inconceivable, but it happened so nothing seems certain.

My thoughts and prayers are with the people of France and the families of the victims.

Odd that no one has claimed responsibility yet.

Author

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-34805924

‘Jihadi John’: US air strike targets Islamic State militant in Syria

Author

Good Morning Everyone!

There will be no updates this week and I’m very sorry about that.

On Friday the 20th next week, I will be publishing the 6th anniversary edition of Morning Blog with a question. If answered correctly it will win a MB mug for the first three correct answers.

Hope to see you then.

Last week’s Trivia question was answered correctly by Nirek. Well done!

The answer was, Richard Nixon, when he ran for Congress in 1946 and won.

Take care.

Member

Kalima, I look forward to the 6th anniversary of Morning Blog. Hope you are feeling well. Get rest. peace to you and yours.

Author

See you next Friday then, Nirek, and thank you for your kind words and support.

Take care and peace to you and yours.

Author

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/11/05/national/nuclear-operator-seeks-restart-despite-active-fault-plant/

Good Morning everyone!

It”s been a worrying month with one thing or the other, and now seems to be going a little better. The most worrying thing was that my 90 year old mother-in-law fell and broke her hip. Knowing that her cancer has returned, the doctors were waiting to see if she was strong enough for surgery. Guess what? She was and a successful operation took place two weeks ago. Now it will be months of painful rehabilitation for her, but she insists she will get better because she can no longer stand the bland hospital food. A shout out to the other Mrs. K, she is certainly a very strong woman. Get well soon!

Have a good day wherever you may be. Take care, be safe, stay warm and comfy.

Sayonara from my evening corner of Tokyo. Mata ne.

Our Moment of Zen

Well nobody’s perfect.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_uEfmQt34Nc&ebc=ANyPxKojoEOkHpZDrgKsAof_V6-jt7KlnqJY9xyPWzEkNVe9Rn3SvAKzPVBqZNbGXZeJtbJXmaZ5&app=desktop
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A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
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Nuclear operator seeks restart despite active fault under plant

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Surprise! Surprise!
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Auditors find 157 bil. yen in wasteful spending by gov’t in FY 2014

http://mainichi.jp/english/english/newsselect/news/20151106p2g00m0dm060000c.html

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Yay! My ward rocks!
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Tokyo’s Shibuya Ward starts issuing same-sex partnership papers

http://mainichi.jp/english/english/newsselect/news/20151105p2g00m0dm047000c.html

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Making the case for the TPP trade agreement

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/opinion/2015/11/03/commentary/japan-commentary/making-case-tpp-trade-agreement/

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A pay wall has no place in democratic politics

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/opinion/2015/11/05/commentary/world-commentary/pay-wall-no-place-democratic-politics/

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Dainty geishas make secret fast-food raids

http://www.japantoday.com/category/lifestyle/view/dainty-geishas-make-secret-fast-food-raids

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PICTURE OF THE DAY

Roppongi Hills Christmas

http://www.japantoday.com/category/picture-of-the-day/view/roppongi-hills-christmas-2
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INTERNATIONAL NEWS
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MPs could be forced to debate a no-confidence vote in David Cameron

Petition is closing in on the 100,000 signatures required for MPs to consider the motion for debate in Parliament

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/mps-could-be-forced-to-debate-a-no-confidence-vote-in-david-cameron-a6722796.html

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Hey George, you can get it from the rich by making them pay their fair share in taxes.
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George Osborne can find £4.4bn without cutting tax credits, says think tank

Resolution Foundation says chancellor should abandon politically damaging cuts and meet target by adjusting taxation and pension thresholds

http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2015/nov/05/george-osborne-can-find-44bn-without-cutting-tax-credits-says-thinktank

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Why does George Osborne have it in for the workers?

Cutting working tax credit was bad enough, but now the Chancellor wants to use universal credit to squeeze the poor even more

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/politics/georgeosborne/11978065/Why-does-George-Osborne-have-it-in-for-the-workers.html

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Two deaths possibly linked to ‘Hunt effect’, study suggests

Research suggests some patients may be avoiding going to hospital at the weekend because of health secretary’s statements about inadequate NHS staffing levels

http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2015/nov/05/two-deaths-possibly-linked-to-hunt-effect-study-weekend-nhs-staffing

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Jeremy Hunt, the junior doctors will see you now – it’s time for your dose of reality

Polly Toynbee

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2015/nov/05/jeremy-hunt-junior-doctors-cabinet-nhs

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Russian plane crash: Decision to ground planes made President Sisi’s visit uncomfortable – but he shouldn’t have been invited at all

The Cameron government chooses to value the solid benefits of trade between nations above the less easily measured effects of cosying up to dictators

http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/russian-plane-crash-decision-to-ground-planes-made-president-sisi-s-visit-uncomfortable-but-he-a6723256.html

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Refugee children of Calais: ‘I’m very homesick, I wish I could go back now’

Unaccompanied minors living in tents with no support from the French state say they have been harshly treated by police

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/nov/04/refugee-children-calais-homesick-french-police

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Migrant crisis: Germany to speed up asylum process

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34742268

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Russian plane crash: Curbs on Sharm el-Sheikh travel widen

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34740887

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If Isis did target Russian plane, what does it mean for ‘war on terror’?

Likely motivation for any Islamic State role would be Moscow’s action in Syria rather than move towards global terror strategy

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/nov/05/if-isis-did-bring-down-russian-plane-what-does-it-mean-for-the-war-on-terror

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Russia sends air-defence systems to back Syria campaign

Russian air force chief confirms deployment in interview, as Syrian opposition denies reports of peace talks in Moscow.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/11/russia-sends-air-defence-systems-syria-campaign-151105093227825.html

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Anonymous posts Ku Klux Klan list

http://www.bbc.com/news/technology-34736941

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George Bush Sr book reveals a more dangerous Dick Cheney than anyone knew

Destiny and Power shows a VP with more authority than almost all his predecessors, making plain Bush Jr’s administration could have been even worse

http://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2015/nov/05/george-bush-sr-book-reveals-a-more-dangerous-dick-cheney-than-anyone-knew

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Weeks After Mass Shooting, Oregon County Votes To Nullify Gun Control Laws

http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2015/11/05/3719580/coos-county-passes-gun-rights-law/

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Bernie Sanders pushes to legalise marijuana in the United States

The Democratic presidential challenger to Hillary Clinton has filed a bill in the Senate that would remove federal constraints on the recreational use of the drug

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/11976662/Bernie-Sanders-pushes-to-legalise-marijuana-in-the-United-States.html

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Bernie Sanders Launches First TV Ad in Iowa and New Hampshire

http://bluenationreview.com/bernie-sanders-launches-first-tv-ad-in-iowa-and-new-hampshire/

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Bernie Sanders: Climate Change Is A ‘Major Planetary Crisis’ And The U.S. Must Act Now

http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2015/11/05/3719583/sanders-urges-keystone-rejection/

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There’s No Centrist Superman to Save You
by Michael Tomasky

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/10/30/there-s-no-centrist-superman-to-save-you.html

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It Didn’t Take Long For Paul Ryan to Show Why GOP Wanted Him as Speaker

http://bluenationreview.com/it-didnt-take-long-for-paul-ryan-to-show-why-gop-wanted-him-as-speaker/

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New G.O.P. Debate Format Forbids Questions About Things Candidates Said, Did – The New Yorker

http://www.newyorker.com/humor/borowitz-report/new-g-o-p-debate-format-forbids-questions-about-things-candidates-said-did

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Ben Carson: Trans People Don’t Deserve ‘Extra Rights,’ Like Using Bathroom

http://thinkprogress.org/lgbt/2015/11/05/3719797/ben-carson-transgender-bathroom/

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Chris Christie and Mike Huckabee, in Blow to Their Campaigns, Are Cut From Main Debate Stage

Fox Business Network, the host of the next Republican presidential debate next week in Milwaukee, announced the qualifiers for the main stage, and Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey did not quite make the cut.

http://www.nytimes.com/politics/first-draft/2015/11/05/chris-christie-in-big-blow-to-his-campaign-is-cut-from-main-debate-stage/

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Austerity’s Grim Legacy

The deficit fetishism that led to government cutbacks has been more destructive in the long run than even its critics anticipated.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/06/opinion/austeritys-grim-legacy.html?smid=nytcore-ipad-share&smprod=nytcore-ipad

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Amnesty accuses Syrian regime of ‘disappearing’ tens of thousands

Human rights group says organised campaign directed at civilian population is a crime against humanity

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/11976494/Amnesty-accuses-Syrian-regime-of-disappearing-tens-of-thousands.html

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Why is Russia bombing my town?

https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/why-is-russia-bombing-my-town/2015/11/06/e1084ca0-8274-11e5-9afb-0c971f713d0c_story.html

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Syrian opposition leader warns of deception by Russia during peace talks

Syrian National Coalition president urges Britain and other nations to thwart efforts by Iran and Russia to delay Vienna peace talks for Assad’s benefit

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/nov/04/syria-opposition-leader-khaled-khoja-warns-russian-deception

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Chemical weapons experts confirm Islamic State use of mustard gas in Syria

Report by Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons raises questions over whether jihadists are able to make agent themselves, or if they have accessed undeclared Assad stockpile

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/11978627/Chemical-weapons-experts-confirm-Islamic-State-use-of-mustard-gas-in-Syria.html

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Syria bombs Douma despite use of human shields

Assad forces continue to pound Damascus neighbourhood despite rebel group putting prisoners in cages to deter attacks.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/11/syria-bombs-douma-human-shields-151103171542946.html

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Afghan refugees in Iran being sent to fight and die for Assad in Syria

Exclusive: Photographs of funerals for Afghans killed in Syria reveal refugees recruited into Iran’s effort to save its ally

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/nov/05/iran-recruits-afghan-refugees-fight-save-syrias-bashar-al-assad

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Netanyahu choice for new spokesman angers many Israelis

Ran Baratz, editor of a conservative news site, has mocked Israel’s president, talked of ‘antisemitic western liberal nations’ and supported Jewish extremists

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/nov/05/netanyahu-choice-for-new-spokesman-angers-many-israelis

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Baggage handler at Sharm el-Sheikh ‘could have smuggled bomb on board doomed Russian jet
‘
British and American intelligence officers believe Metrojet flight 9268 was downed by a bomb in its luggage hold as suspicion turns on staff at the Egyptian airport

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/aviation/11978475/Baggage-handler-at-Sharm-el-Sheikh-could-have-smuggled-bomb-on-board-doomed-Russian-jet.html

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Shell accused of lying over Nigeria oil spill clean-up

Oil company accused of making false claims about extent of clean-up operations and urged to do more for those effected.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/africa/2015/11/shell-accused-lying-nigeria-oil-spill-clean-151103160941729.html

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Iran’s president criticises recent arrests of journalists

Hassan Rouhani says hardliners ‘misusing’ remarks by supreme leader on possible spread of US influence in Iran

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/nov/05/irans-president-criticises-recent-arrests-of-journalists

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Ayatollah: ‘Death to America’ refers to US policies

http://bigstory.ap.org/article/e7da18c319aa4e26afe568f967b31b54/iran-ayatollah-death-america-refers-us-policies

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Pakistan Lahore factory collapse: Hopes dim for survivors

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-34729589

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Afghan Taliban faction appoints new ‘supreme leader’

Spokesman for breakaway group tells Al Jazeera it chose Mullah Akhund after discussions with elders and mujahideens.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/11/afghan-taliban-faction-appoints-supreme-leader-151105130923880.html

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‘Innocent until proven Muslim in Australia’

A conference in Sydney’s west focuses on how Australian Muslims should resist “forced assimilation” and “oppression”.

http://www.aljazeera.com/blogs/asia/2015/11/proven-muslim-australia-oppression-hizb-ut-tahrir-discrimination-151101204455898.html
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TRIVIA QUIZ

The answer to last week’s question was the Australian lemonade fruit, and we have a winner. Well dpne, monicaangela!

Today’s question.

What U.S. president used his poker winnings to help finance his first campaign for public office?

HINT:

Well it figures, he was a crook after all.

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The Displaced: Introduction

Nearly 60 million people are currently displaced from their homes by war and persecution — more than at any time since World War II. Half are children. This multimedia journey in text, photographs and virtual reality tells the stories of three of them.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/08/magazine/the-displaced-introduction.html?

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The Displaced: Hana

At 12, she has lived one-quarter of her life in a debilitating state of suspension as a Syrian refugee in Lebanon.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/08/magazine/the-displaced-hana.html

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The Displaced: Chuol

At 9, without his parents, he was forced to flee to the swamps.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/11/08/magazine/the-displaced-chuol.html

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The 13-year-old girl sent on a ‘day-trip’ to Australia

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-34656346

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Meet the Nigerian woman taking on Boko Haram

Hafsat Mohammed uses hope to counter hate, but the activist knows the threats she faces are all too real.

http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/women-make-change/2015/11/151104160651727.html

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Malala Yousafzai: Her father’s daughter

http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-34637751

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What a viral picture tells us about child poverty in Africa

http://www.bbc.com/news/blogs-trending-34678592

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Rare early photographs of Peking

http://www.bbc.com/news/in-pictures-34697724

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When Cities Rise From The Depths

“There are hundreds of submerged cities around the world. We are only just beginning to discover what they have to tell us about the prehistoric human past.”

http://www.bbc.com/travel/story/20151102-when-cities-rise-from-the-depths

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Pictures of the day: 5 November 2015

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/picturesoftheday/11976601/Pictures-of-the-day-5-November-2015.html

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Photo highlights of the day: AC/DC on tour and great white pelicans

The Guardian’s picture editors bring you a selection of the best photographs from around the world, including hungry birds and veteran rockers

http://www.theguardian.com/world/gallery/2015/nov/04/photo-highlights-of-the-day-acdc-on-tour-and-great-white-pelicans

Member

Good day Kalima, sorry for your mother-in-law. She sounds like a strong woman. Where do I start? There are so many stories.

I am waiting for the list that anonymous is posting. I saw the short list early this week that your story said was not real. That list had a few republican congressmen on it. I dare not repost it because it may be wrong.

Bernie is doing his job as Senator and campaigning as well. He has introduced a couple bills and made 96% of the votes! Rubio on the other hand has missed a full 50% of the Senate votes. I see a difference in the integrity of them. Bernie has it and Rubio, not so much.

Was it Nixon? He was a crook.

I’ll have to come back for more another time. As always be well and peace to you and yours, especially your Mother-in-law.

Admin

Good evening/morning, Kalima! I’m happy to have a little “extension,” so that I can catch up on this earlier, terrific edition of MB while you tend to matters on the home front. And there seem to be plenty to tend to. But I’m so glad to hear that your 90 year old mother-in-law made it through her surgery and is looking forward to her imminent escape from hospital food! Stay strong, both Mrs. K. There’s chocolate in your future!

I loved the snoring hummingbird video. And it definitely got the attention of the household feline, Jordan. He perked right up when he heard that “wheeee!!” sound.

Unbelievable, isn’t it? That there’s a petition to restart a nuclear reactor that sits on a fault line? We can only hope that Japan’s NRA refuses to allow it. And yet — if I were a betting person, I would say that, given the verity of corporate power, I wouldn’t put money on that possibility.

On the other hand — kudos to the wonderful ward of Shibuya! For being the first in Tokyo to give the green light to same-sex marriage. Go, Shibuya! Into the 21st century!

Going back in time though, we have geishas — who crave McDonald’s fries. But aren’t allowed to dash out and fetch them. Who knew? I guess I always thought that geishas had something like an 8 hour day (or evening) and that in their off hours they could wear jeans and eat all the junk food they wanted. But it seems to be a lot more like joining the convent — signing up to be a geisha. You live the role 24/7. A much less romantic lifestyle than most of us imagined.

Moving over to Great Britain — let’s hope that the petition for a vote of no-confidence in David Cameron reaches the 100,000 mark and is acted on. The sooner the better. Some of these petitions have been ignored in the past. But let’s hope that this one isn’t. If ever a British politician needed to join the unemployment line, it’s this one.

And it would be even better if George Osbourne could keep him company there. His stubborn refusal to tax the rich — under any circumstances — and insistence on wringing every last penny out of the poor (including — most recently — even the working poor) is genuinely evil.

Third in line for the unemployment “honors” would be Jeremy Hunt. Who now has the ignominy of having his name attached to the “Hunt effect.” Which is the refusal of desperately ill or injured to go to the hospital on weekends because they’ve heard from Jeremy that there will be no doctors there to take care of them. What an idiot.

At least there’s a bit of sanity and humanity over here in the person of Michael Tomasky. Confronting the madness that is Donald Trump, he has the rationality to say: “No. This loony is not the ‘moderate’ that David Brooks would have you believe he is. He’s not going to save you. Get over that.” Yes, Michael. That’s it, in a nutshell. And the emphasis is not the “nut” part of that word.

And thank God for Andy Borowitz. Good thing that he filled us all in on the fact that there are new rules of civility for GOP
debates now. And that asking questions about anything that the candidate has ever said or done is now considered “gotcha journalism.”

Another favorite: Paul Krugman. He’s too modest to say it, but he was one of the few people warning of the risks of austerity programs after the Great Recession right from the beginning. And — as usual — he was right. He ends his article on a slightly ominous note, though. I think Paul is suspecting that if a Republican is elected president in 2016, there could be dire economic consequences. This is one time it would be nice if he weren’t right, but I’m afraid that’s not going to be the case. Which is why we really have to elect a Dem.

Last but far from least — I loved the old photos of Peking (Beijing). It’s so wonderful to study those faces and take note of every detail of an era that’s lost to us forever now. Terrific!

Author

Good Morning Everyone!

With a little luck and no more interruptions, I hope to be here on Friday morning with the updates.

Take care and look forward to seeing you then.

Author

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=BYg_upea-w4

Good Morning Everyone!

Sorry for the disappearing act but it looks as if I picked up a bug during my last visit to my hospital. Can’t say that they don’t offer a guarantee for ensuring your next visit. It unfortunately affected my vision and ended up in a cold. Got to love hospitals. You go there sick and come home feeling even sicker.

Have a good day wherever you may be. Take care, be safe, stay warm and comfy.

Sayonara from my already dark afternoon corner in Tokyo. Mata ne.

Our Moment of Zen

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A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
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Koizumi, Hosokawa head to Hakodate to help city fight MOX nuke plant across strait

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/10/29/national/koizumi-hosokawa-head-hakodate-help-city-fight-mox-nuke-plant-across-strait/

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Piling data found faked on Asahi Kasei structure in Kushiro; different employee suspected

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/10/29/national/piling-data-found-faked-asahi-kasei-structure-kushiro-different-employee-suspected/

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Seoul, Tokyo bickering days before 3-way summit with China

http://www.japantoday.com/category/politics/view/seoul-tokyo-bickering-days-before-3-way-summit-with-china-2

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Who saved Kyoto from the atomic hellfire?

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/opinion/2015/10/28/commentary/japan-commentary/saved-kyoto-atomic-hellfire/?

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PICTURE OF THE DAY

Pumpkin play

http://www.japantoday.com/category/picture-of-the-day/view/pumpkin-play
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INTERNATIONAL NEWS
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David Cameron has all the answers… except to the question he’s been asked

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/politics/pmqs/11960985/David-Cameron-has-all-the-answers…-except-to-the-question-hes-been-asked.html

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The Corbyn quote at PMQs that silenced his critics once and for all

The Tory response was the same as always: this was about “transforming the UK economy”, that squirming Tory platitude used currently as a get-out-of-jail-free card

http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/the-corbyn-quote-at-pmqs-that-silenced-his-critics-once-and-for-all-a6712001.html

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Austerity cuts are causing mental distress and are linked to rise in suicides, health professionals warn

But for government cuts, Mark Wood, a mentally ill young man, might not have died. And with suicide rates continuing to rise, austerity measures are costing more minds and lives every day. Mary O’Hara wonders why the system doesn’t care

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/features/austerity-cuts-are-causing-mental-distress-and-are-linked-to-rise-in-suicides-health-professionals-a6712651.html

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Nato considers sending 4,000 troops to Russian borders

Proposals being considered including deploying troops to Eastern Europe under direct Nato command in peacetime, in an unprecedented move that will likely be greeted with fury in Moscow, WSJ reports

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/11961836/Nato-considers-sending-4000-troops-to-Russian-borders.html

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Germany says Austrian handling of refugees ‘out of order’

German government accuses Austria of driving refugees to the border after dark so they can cross into Germany

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/austria/11960119/Germany-says-Austrian-handling-of-refugees-out-of-order.html

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BREAKING: Bernie Sanders Calls For Federal Decriminalization Of Marijuana

http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2015/10/28/3717083/bernie-weed/

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Hillary Clinton Doesn’t Want To Get Rid Of The Death Penalty

http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2015/10/28/3717058/hillary-clinton-death-penalty/

—-

The CNBC Republican Debate Was A Total Trainwreck

http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2015/10/28/3717186/cnbc-debate-moderators-yelling/

—-

Third Republican debate

Jeb Bush and Marco Rubio clash, while Donald Trump goes 28 minutes without talking in Republican debate in Colorado – latest developments

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/republicans/11961761/Third-Republican-debate-live.html

—-

At the Republican Debate, Noise Drowned Out Substance

Few of the candidates seemed interested in actually reviewing their records in detail.

http://takingnote.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/10/29/at-the-republican-debate-noise-drowned-out-substance/

—-

Who Made the Most Ridiculous Comment in the Republican Debate?

You tell us.

http://takingnote.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/10/28/who-made-the-most-ridiculous-comment-in-the-republican-debate/

—-

In case you missed it. *groan*
————

Transcript: Republican Presidential Debate

The main debate on Wednesday, hosted by CNBC in Boulder, Colo., as transcribed by the Federal News Service.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/29/us/politics/transcript-republican-presidential-debate.html

—-

Trump vs Clinton: who are the richest US presidential candidates?

A Trump vs Clinton battle for the White House would make the 2016 election the wealthiest presidential head-to-head in history

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/banksandfinance/11959512/Trump-vs-Clinton-who-are-the-richest-US-presidential-candidates.html

—-

Fox: New Evidence Hillary Killed Lincoln – The New Yorker

http://www.newyorker.com/humor/borowitz-report/fox-new-evidence-hillary-killed-lincoln

—-

Western and Gulf allies set out ‘timetable’ for Assad ahead of talks with Iran

Syrian talks in Vienna on Friday will mark first time Iran and Saudi Arabia – regional powers opposed over Syria- have sat down to talk

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/11961648/Western-and-Gulf-allies-set-out-timetable-for-Assad-ahead-of-talks-with-Iran.html

—-

Million more refugees will leave Syria due to Russian strikes, Turkey warns Europe

Exclusive: Another two million people will be displaced in Syria as Ankara expects the refugee crisis to worsen, a senior government official says

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/turkey/11961636/Million-more-refugees-will-leave-Syria-due-to-Russian-strikes-Turkey-warns-Europe.html

—-

Israel razes Palestinian village in Negev for 90th time

Officials directed bulldozers to destroy the homes of Bedouin villagers in al-Araqib, who return each time to rebuild.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/10/israel-razes-palestinian-village-negev-90th-time-151028121644298.html

—-

Mahmoud Abbas appeals to UN for international protection for Palestinians

President attacks Israel’s ‘oppressive war machine’ as soldiers shoot Palestinian man dead and Israeli woman is reportedly attacked outside supermarket

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/oct/28/mahmoud-abbas-appeals-un-international-protection-for-palestinians

—-

Nigerian troops rescue 338 people held by Boko Haram

President Muhammadu Buhari has given his military commanders until the end of December to defeat the group

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/nigeria/11959950/Nigerian-troops-rescue-338-people-held-by-Boko-Haram.html

—-

Bidhya Devi Bhandari elected Nepal’s first female president

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-34664430

—-

Indian hanged girls: Court rejects probe ruling out rape

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-34664596

—-

Iran confirms it will attend international talks over Syria’s future

Discussions in Vienna this week will be first time Tehran has attended an international summit on the conflict

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/oct/28/iran-confirms-it-will-attend-international-talks-over-syrias-future#img-1

—-

Islamic State targets journalists in Iraq’s
Mosul

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-34657022

—-

Amnesty: Australian officials paid people smugglers

Rights group calls for probe into reports that officials paid smugglers to turn back boats with people on two occasions.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/10/amnesty-australian-officials-paid-people-smugglers-151028230421588.html

—-

North Koreans sent abroad into ‘forced labour’, says UN

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-34664440

—-

Myanmar’s ‘Muslim-free’ election

Nobel laureate Aung San Suu Kyi “purged” opposition of Muslims ahead of election, senior party member tells Al Jazeera.

http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2015/10/myanmar-muslim-free-election-151024182312301.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

TRIVIA QUIZ

The answer to the last trivia quiz question is.

Raising your arm to cover your face while you sneeze into the crook of your albow in a gesture that evokes Dracula raising his cape. I personally prefered kes’s answer. 🙂

Today’s Question.

What is grown on a lemonade tree?

—-

South Sudan: ‘a level of human suffering I have never seen anywhere else’

Children are paying the highest price for 22-month conflict that has displaced millions of people and pushed the world’s youngest country close to famine

http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2015/oct/28/south-sudan-civil-war-human-suffering-children-displaced-famine

—-

Oz: Israel’s prison for Palestinian children

Over 100 children have been subject to arbitrary detention by Israel in October across the West Bank, rights groups say.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/10/oz-israel-prison-palestinian-children-151027102958151.html

—-

Lives on hold: The Scots helping Syrians in a refugee camp

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-34632208

—-

Afghan people smuggler: I’m doing a good job

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-34630768

—-

Hero Ibrahim Ahmad: The original female Peshmerga

Hero fought in the resistance against Iraq’s Baathist regime – 50 years later, a new generation follows her example.

http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/women-make-change/2015/10/hero-ibrahim-ahmad-original-female-peshmerga-151027111035570.html

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Raped, pregnant and afraid of being jailed

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-34616879

—-

We are lifelong Zionists. Here’s why we’ve chosen to boycott Israel.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/a-zionist-case-for-boycotting-israel/2015/10/23/ac4dab80-735c-11e5-9cbb-790369643cf9_story.html

—-

Video: The Other Millennials

BY SKY DYLAN-ROBB

http://www.newyorker.com/culture/culture-desk/video-the-other-millennials

—-

Amazing photos!
————

What America’s immigrants looked like when they arrived on Ellis Island

http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonkblog/wp/2015/10/24/what-americas-immigrants-looked-like-when-they-arrived-on-ellis-island/?wpmm=1&wpisrc=nl_wemost

—-

The girl who secretly filmed the Taliban

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-34541661

—-

Why do Norwegians use ‘texas’ to mean ‘crazy’?

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-34622478

—-

100 funny jokes by 100 comedians

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/comedy/comedians/funny-jokes/

—-

Pictures of the day: 28 October 2015

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/picturesoftheday/11959187/Pictures-of-the-day-28-October-2015.html

—-

Best photographs of the day 28 October 2015

Each day the picture editor of the Guardian brings you a selection of photo highlights

http://www.theguardian.com/news/series/ten-best-photographs-of-the-day

Member

Kalima, please take care of yourself, we need you here. But only when you are well enough.

The pictures of the immigrants are interesting, huh? They look different than their decendants do today. I have seen a picture of my great grandfather and he was bearded like I am today. I have had my beard since I returned home from Vietnam 45 years ago.

Bernie is doing a lot , not just campaigning. Your story about decriminalizing pot is one thing and another is trying to get Social Security folks a cola raise next year. We don’t get one this time because the price of gas has kept inflation down? Everything else is up but gas. We don’t drive as much as we used to but our meds have climbed in price. Guess I better be quiet or big brother might get me.

Again please be well and get rest.
Peace to you and yours.

Author

Thanks Nirek, I’m taking it easy for now.

Looking at those photos of the early immigrants, I had to imagine how many of them would be let into your country now looking as they did?

It seems that in some ignorant minds even wearing a head covering makes you a terrorist. Do you remember when our Church required women to cover our heads? Were we terrorists too?

Yes I read about Bernie tackling Social Security. Good for him but I worry about how much opposition he will have should he win the election. The President has tried to change many important issues and has amazingly passed many new bills while many still sit on the back burner. The GOP will fight Bernie just as fiercely should he be elected.

It’s disgraceful that you are paying too much for necessary medication.

Take care and peace always.

Member

Hello Kalima!

I’m so glad you are okay. I noticed I hadn’t noticed any of your comments in the mornings when I first come on the site like I usually do. Take care of yourself. If I were closer I would make my award winning Chicken and Dumplings for you and you would feel better almost instantaneously. 🙂

Thank you for posting the Morning Blog. I had a bit of bad news regarding one of my Aunts last night, and wasn’t able to come on this morning to see if you were able to post it. I will come back in the morning with my special cup of coffee and enjoy as usual. So glad you felt well enough to do this, and as always, thank you, thank you, thank you for all you do here. xxoo 😉

Oh yes, btw. Is the answer to the quiz question a fruit similar to a lemon? The fruit looks like a lemon but has a different taste. I saw a lemonade tree when I was in Australia, but I did not pick or taste the fruit, the tree had thorns, and I thought the people that told me it was a lemonade tree were pulling my leg, thought maybe it might be a poison look alike, or something I might be allergic to. When I got back to the states they told me it was actually a “Lemonade Tree.” Don’t know if that is the answer, but that is the only time I have ever heard anyone call a tree that looks sort of like a lemon tree a lemonade tree.

Author

Hello monicaangela. So sorry to hear that you have received bad news about your Aunt. Prayers and healing thoughts.

Chicken and dumplings sounds wonderful. I’m going to have lunch soon but it’s not as exciting.

Don’t worry about getting back here. There is never any rush or obligation to comment on MB.

Take care and see you when things have calmed a little.

Will give the answer to the trivia quiz soon.

Member

Thank you for your prayers and well wishes Kalima. My Aunt appears to be doing better now. She had what I guess could be considered a mini-stroke. So far it appears she doesn’t have too much muscle or nerve damage from the incident. I guess the bigger problem is that she fell during the incident and broke her arm. She is 89 years old, and so doctors are saying it will take a long time for the bone to heel, and that it may not mend as well as it would if she were younger.

I guess I’ll just have to hope and pray all goes well with her. She lives in California, and as you know I live in Ohio, so I won’t be able to visit her often. I do plan to see her during the Thanksgiving Holiday. I’m hoping I will be able to stay a bit longer than I had planned.

The articles you’ve posted are wonderful as usual, lots of human interest and I loved the Zen moment with Maru and Hana. I tell you, the more news I read, the more it looks as though we may be about to go into another world war, things appear to be stirred up all over the place. Will we never have peace on this planet? Sometimes I wonder…

Author

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/10/15/national/second-reactor-restarted-kyushu-tighter-fukushima-inspired-rules/

Good Morning everyone!

I suppose autumn is near but from boiling hot to freezing cold, makes me think that we might have missed it already. Hope your slide into autumn is much more pleasant.

Have a good day wherever you may be. Take care, be safe, stay warm and comfy.

Sayonara from my darkening afternoon corner of Tokyo. Mata ne.

Our Moment of Zen

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTeMmS49bDc
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Kyushu restarts second reactor at Sendai plant under tighter Fukushima-inspired rules

—

Leaning tower forces Asahi Kasei to check 3,000 residential buildings

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/10/15/national/leaning-tower-forces-asahi-kasei-check-3000-residential-buildings/

—-

Japan to return to U.N. Security Council after 5-year hiatus

http://mainichi.jp/english/english/newsselect/news/20151016p2g00m0fp014000c.html

—-

Full body scanners being tested at three airports

http://www.japantoday.com/category/national/view/full-body-scanners-being-tested-at-three-airports

—-

PICTURE OF THE DAY

Eerie figures

http://www.japantoday.com/category/picture-of-the-day/view/eerie-figures
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation Trust charged over four deaths

The trust at the centre of the worst ever NHS scandal is facing criminal charges over the deaths of four patients

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/nhs/11934063/Mid-Staffordshire-NHS-Foundation-Trust-charged-over-four-deaths.html

—-

Doctors ask Cabinet Office to investigate Jeremy Hunt’s patient deaths comments

Medics say health secretary breached ministerial code of conduct with claim that 11,000 patients a year die after being admitted to hospital at weekends

http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2015/oct/15/doctors-cabinet-office-investigate-jeremy-hunt

—-

Breaking point: a day in the life of the NHS – in pictures

How do you cope when you get a new patient every six minutes, 365 days a year, and you’re under constant pressure despite dwindling staff and resources? Photographer Sam Peat shows daily life for doctors and nurses at a typical A&E – The Royal Gwent Hospital in Newport

http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2015/oct/16/breaking-point-a-day-in-the-life-of-the-nhs-in-pictures

—-

Sir John Chilcot to set timetable for publication of Iraq war report

Announcement comes days before deadline when families of British soldiers killed in war had threatened to begin legal action over delays

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/oct/15/sir-john-chilcot-to-set-timetable-for-publication-of-iraq-war-report

—-

French train company SNCF angers right-wing politicians by allowing refugees to travel without valid tickets

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/french-train-company-angers-right-wing-politicians-by-allowing-refugees-to-travel-without-valid-a6694686.html

—-

Poland may sue over claim Poles killed more Jews than Germans during war

Princeton University professor Jan T Gross faces possible lawsuit by the Polish prosecutors over his remarks

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/oct/16/poland-anger-over-claim-that-poles-killed-more-jews-than-germans-during-war

—-

Russia’s Fictions on Malaysia Flight 17

A new report details how the crash was caused, but Russia has an alternate version of events.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/15/opinion/russias-fictions-on-malaysia-flight-17.html

—-

Flight MH17: Russia and its changing story

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34538142

—-

Who will Win the Post-Debate Spin?
by Michael Tomasky

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/10/14/who-will-win-the-post-debate-spin.html

—-

The candidate breaking through in the Democratic debate? Bernie Sanders

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-fix/wp/2015/10/13/the-candidate-breaking-through-in-the-democratic-debate-bernie-sanders/

—-

Bernie Sanders says debate performance prompted $1.3 million in donations

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-politics/wp/2015/10/14/bernie-sanders-says-debate-performance-prompted-1-3-million-in-donations/

—-

Bernie Sanders rejects donation from Martin Shkreli who boosted Aids drug price by 5,000 per cent

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/us-election/11935087/Bernie-Sanders-rejects-donation-from-Martin-Shkreli-who-boosted-Aids-drug-price-by-5000-per-cent.html

—-

Here’s What BNR Readers Had to Say About the Democratic Debate

http://bluenationreview.com/heres-what-bnr-readers-had-to-say-about-the-democratic-debate/

—-

Is Clinton’s no-fly zone in Syria really on the table?

http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2015/10/14/is-clintons-no-fly-zone-really-on-the-table.html

—–

The Waaaaah Street Factor by Paul Krugman

Great wealth and thin skins.

http://krugman.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/10/14/the-waaaaah-street-factor/

—-

Trump, Huckabee and Jeb Trolled the #DemDebate And It Was Pathetic

http://bluenationreview.com/trump-huckabee-and-jeb-trolled-the-demdebate-and-it-was-pathetic/

—-

This man is sick!
————

Huckabee Suggests Poor People Should Be Sold Into Slavery For Stealing

http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2015/10/15/3712684/mike-huckabee-slavery/

—-

This man is sick too.
————

Rand Paul Answers Question About LGBT Workplace Discrimination By Telling Them To Find Another Job

http://thinkprogress.org/lgbt/2015/10/15/3712626/rand-paul-lgbt-employment/

—-

Syria crisis: Thousands of Iranian troops amass for all-out assault on Aleppo

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/thousands-of-iranian-troops-amass-for-all-out-assault-on-syrian-city-of-aleppo-a6693501.html

—-

Russian firepower ups the stakes in Syria

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-34522268

—-

Russia ‘reducing air strikes against Syrian rebels’ as intervention fails

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/11934564/Russia-reducing-air-strikes-against-Syrian-rebels-as-intervention-fails.html

—-

Ankara blasts: Bombers ‘linked to Islamic State’

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34533522

—-

New checkpoints and fears divide Jerusalem’s Jews and Palestinians

Roadblocks set up to allow Israel to seal off Palestinian neighbourhoods as 70-year-old Israeli woman is stabbed in latest violent attack in city

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/oct/14/new-checkpoints-and-fears-divide-jerusalems-jews-and-palestinians

—-

Israel to revoke Jerusalem residency of Palestinians

In addition to punitive home demolitions, Israel is taking steps to banish alleged attackers’ relatives from

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/10/israel-revoke-jerusalem-residency-palestinians-151015125531507.html

—-

Israel fury over Abbas ‘execution’ of Palestinian teenager claim

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/israel/11934330/Israel-fury-over-Abbas-execution-of-Palestinian-teenager-claim.html

—-

South Sudan: The forgotten war in the heart of Africa

As British soldiers prepare to deploy in South Sudan, David Blair reports on a forgotten war that has forced 2.2 million people to flee their homes

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/south-sudan/11931435/South-Sudan-The-forgotten-war-in-the-heart-of-Africa.html

—-

Child soldier, 14, already a veteran of South Sudan’s civil war

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/south-sudan/11934820/Child-soldier-14-already-a-veteran-of-South-Sudans-civil-war.html

—-

Iran Meets Atomic Agency Deadline for Material on Past Activities

Meeting the deadline was another in a series of steps that Iran promised to take as part of the nuclear agreement reached in July with six world powers.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/16/world/middleeast/iran-meets-atomic-agency-deadline-for-material-on-past-activities.html

—-

Barack Obama to slow US troop withdrawals from Afghanistan

Thousands of troops will remain in the country through 2017, the US president announces

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/afghanistan/11933444/Barack-Obama-to-slow-US-troop-withdrawals-from-Afghanistan-says-official.html

—-

China home to more billionaires than the US

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/china/11935082/China-home-to-more-billionaires-than-the-US.html

—-

Philippines hostages: Video shows kidnapped tourists

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-34524830

—-

Myanmar signs peace deal with armed rebel groups

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-34536002
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Trivia Quiz
==========

What is a Dracula sneeze?

—-

‘Many people died’: odysseys of asylum seekers and the village ‘overwhelmed’

Residents of Longford say they do not object to the newcomers, only to their concentration and constant transit in and out of temporary accommodation

http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2015/oct/14/asylum-seekers-village-longford-temporary-accommodation-heathrow

—-

Torn apart: The smuggler and my baby

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-34489248

—-

The friendship that grew out of war

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-34346621

—-

Modern life is rubbish? Sleep is just the same as ever, say scientists

Study of sleep patterns of groups living in Tanzania, Namibia and Bolivia with lifestyles similar to our paleolithic ancestors shows similar late-night habits to humans with internet and TV-based routines

http://www.theguardian.com/science/2015/oct/15/modern-life-is-rubbish-sleep-is-just-the-same-as-ever-say-scientists

—-

Researchers may have discovered alien structures on distant star

http://america.aljazeera.com/articles/2015/10/15/researchers-may-have-discovered-alien-megastructure-on-distant-star.html

—-

The polar bears are coming to town

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-34490185

—-

Moscow then and now – in pictures

A Soviet market replaced by a 16-lane highway and the renaming of prominent landmarks: photographs capture the changing face of Russia’s capital

http://www.theguardian.com/world/gallery/2015/oct/14/moscow-then-and-now-in-pictures

—-

In pictures: Roma slums in Romania and Slovakia

http://www.bbc.com/news/in-pictures-34515451

—-

Autumn colour around the UK, in pictures

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/gardening/gardeningpicturegalleries/11885090/Autumn-colour-around-the-UK-in-pictures.html

—-

The 2015 Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition: The winning pictures

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/earth/11928943/The-2015-Wildlife-Photographer-of-the-Year-competition-The-winning-pictures.html

—-

Pictures of the day: 15 October 2015

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/picturesoftheday/11932631/Pictures-of-the-day-15-October-2015.html

—-

Best photographs of the day October 15 2015

Each day the picture editor of the Guardian brings you a selection of photo highlights

http://www.theguardian.com/world/gallery/2015/oct/15/photo-highlights-of-the-day

Member

Good day Kalima, thanks for the stories about Bernie, I enjoyed them. Bernie has integrity and it showed in refusing to take money from the drug guy who raised the price 5000%! I wonder if any other candidate would refuse the money?

The pictures as always tell stories. Thanks for them.

I have no idea what a dracula sneeze is, look forward to the answer.

Stay warm and comfy, peace and good health to you and yours.

Author

Glad you found the stories about Bernie. No, I doubt that many would refuse a donation even from a douchebag like the drug guy when you think about where their money must be coming from if they won’t list their donors.

Answer to the trivia question soon.

Have a good weekennd and take care.

Peace.

Member

Hello Kalima!

Sorry to hear you aren’t getting a proper Fall when it comes to the weather there. It has been beautiful here where I live. I enjoy the slightly cooler temperatures. We are having what some call Indian Summer. It is in the 70’s most days, and 40’s and 50’s at night. Great weather for sleeping.

I of course haven’t had time to peruse all of the articles yet, but many of them caught my eye as I scrolled through the abundance of wonderful material that will keep me busy for quite some time during this weekend and part of next week. I especially wanted to comment on the one about Hillary Clinton and her no-fly-zone that she seems to think will work in Syria. After President Obama made his speech yesterday about the worsening of the war in Afghanistan, and the fact that the war will probably continue after he leaves office with at least 5,500 troops or more still in that battle zone after 2016, which was suppose to be the deadline for ending the war I begin to think of a H.R.C. Presidency. 🙁

I think it would be a disaster if Hillary Clinton won the election..she is in my opinion too hawkish and too connected to the powers that be to be allowed to assume that position. I sure hope the people of this country does not make the mistake of putting her into office. Heaven help of all if they do.

Member

VegasBabe

Disastrous on numerous levels were HRC capitulate to the role of POTUS but IMO, so would BS! Both have avoided one of the real elephants in the room like BLM, the insidiousness of the criminal justice system in this country and then there is ISRAEL! Why do we tolerate this country who is committing genocide against the Palestinian people? Why have we sent them over decades several trillion dollars? Who will stand up for American and say enough already! What are they afraid of? To suggest their fear is of AIPAC is to admit Americans no longer control their own country, mayhap haven’t in a very long time! Remove the stank from the criminal justice and get control of Israel starting with ending the welfare checks. When I hear that, they’ll get my attention. If not, neither will get my vote. Misery loves company!

Member

I agree with your sentiment. I am having a hard time understanding the policies of this nation also. Where Israel is concerned I believe we should have kicked them to the curb years ago, after they started throwing their weight around and as you say began their effort to commit genocide against the population that was there in the land of Canaan before they came.

I suppose we have to admit, the Israeli’s came by their plan honestly. They appear to be following the same playbook the Europeans followed when they came to this nation and committed genocide against the Native Americans.

One thing I have learned about this nation is the fact that you have to make a choice when it comes to elections, even if you don’t like any of the candidates. I feel that whatever we do in this election will not be enough to right the wrongs that have already been committed by this nation. I also feel that Bernie Sanders would be far and away better than Hillary Clinton. So, because I have to vote for someone, and I prefer him over her, I will be voting for him in the primary.

I have given up hope of ever getting a candidate that will do exactly what I would like them to do, Barack Obama has taught me that. No candidate is going to be perfect, none of them will be able to govern alone, so as long as we have a two party system, and as long as we have the good cop bad cop mentality when it comes to those two parties, we are basically stuck with what we get, like it or not. Rather than accept this without voting, I vote to express my opinion. Maybe it doesn’t get all the things I would like, but if the person I vote for wins, I usually get some of what I wanted, as in the case of President Obama. I know that I would not like a Clinton Presidency, and I probably won’t agree with everything Bernie does either, but just as I did with President Obama, I’m willing to give Bernie a try. After all, what’s the alternative? One of the republicans? Heaven forbid we allow that to happen.

Author

http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2015/08/20/3693380/bernie-sanders-private-prisons/

Hello VegasBabe.

Actually Bernie Sanders has talked often about his plans to reform the justice system to end racial inequality. Here is one such article.

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Bernie Sanders to introduce legislation abolishing private prisons

Member

Wonderful article Kalima, I sure hope VegasBabe takes the time to read it.

Admin

AdLib

Kalima, more later but just a quick comment on how fun your Moment of Zen is! You know I have a golden but mine doesn’t know how to take a bath…she does make a great cappuccino though!

Author

Hey, glad you liked it. Yes I was thinking of your “girl” when I saw it.

Cappuccino? If she can make a decent pasta sauce, I’ll have her over as a homestay for 6 months.

Member

Kalima, I am of course enjoying the articles you have posted this morning. Though I would comment on a couple right quick.

The Staffordshire NHS foundation story was inspiring. I sure hope this is a premonition of what is to come in this country. We have so many foundations, Hospitals, and entities working in health service that are doing an equally poor job of caring for their customers. I believe if they started being held accountable for their mistakes, and that if their mistakes were reported more often our Healthcare system would greatly improve. Sure hope this makes a difference for the people who have to utilize the NHS services.

Next, good on Bernie Sanders for turning down the money from Skreli. He is someone we all should be shinning a spotlight on for the manner in which he has been so horribly educated when it comes to stealing from the general public. He is a perfect example of what is wrong with those who are wealthy in this nation. They want to treat the entire country as if it is a Casino where they can gamble and make a fortune with every turn of the wheel, no matter who gets hurt in the process. I truly believe the government should be investigating him for his attempt to gouge the ill by increasing the price of a drug so high that only the wealthy could afford it. I believe his actions would have been tantamount to murder. I still haven’t read an article that lets us know what price he does intend to charge for the drug. Bernie Sanders as you know is my choice, and I do have to say that I believe if he gets into office we will see a great deal of change that will make a difference for the 99% who are living and working in this Oligarchical nation that is suppose to be a democratic republic.

Be back later to comment more, as always, I appreciate this service you provide, can’t thank you enough. Take Care, see you soon. 🙂

Admin

Good Evening/Morning, Kalima! Thanks so much for another great collection of articles from around the world.

It’s always good to start off with a smile, and that sweet Golden Lab who knows how to work faucets and drains to give himself his own bath is guaranteed to bring one. Talk about the perfect pup! Now if I can just get Mr. Jordan Katt to empty his own litter box here…

Well, it’s taken a few years but finally the Mid Staffordshire NHS Foundation is being held accountable for patient deaths on their watch. As well they should be! Firing nurses, short staffing, poor funding on patient care and ridiculous expenditures on junk. It was a disaster waiting to happen and it did.

And doesn’t it just figure that Jeremy Hunt — while he wouldn’t recognize the truth on actual deaths — doesn’t have any problem at all with making them up when it suits his purposes? When he wants to manipulate and exploit doctors, he claims that they need to work longer hours because “11,000 people died” when they didn’t. Even the people who compiled the report he sucked those numbers from warned that they shouldn’t be misused like that. That would never stop our Jeremy though…

But those photos were worth a thousand words — the ones of a “day in the life of” an NHS emergency room. You can almost feel the tension and stress when you look at them. “The Breaking Point” is a very apt title for that series. What a nightmare.

On American politics — Tomasky is right. Hillary undoubtedly benefited from her debate performance. But so did Bernie! I think his magnanimous gesture toward her (dismissing her email kerfuffle) made him look like a real mensch. Which — of course — he is! And his and his campaign’s refusal to take Martin Shkreli’s dirty money is just the icing on the cake. Good for him!

Paul Krugman — I just love him. The term “Waaaah Street” is perfect. Not only do they complain about regulations, they even complain about complaints about their bad behavior. Such sensitive souls. When it comes to themselves. Never when it comes to other peoples’ suffering, though.

And then there’s Huckabee. Another sensitive soul — who’s so sensitive that he’s perfectly okay with selling people into slavery — as long as they’re poor thieves. Now the rich thieves? Those “Waaah Street” boys? The ones who really should be sold into slavery? Nary a word from our boy Huck.

What a sad tale — about the 14 year old boy who’s already a veteran “soldier” in South Sudan. This kid has been so brain-washed that he has absolutely no inclination to get an education — even if one were offered to him. Talk about a totally dead-end existence. It’s hard to imagine that his life span will be very long if he doesn’t get his head turned around in the near future. People who do this to children should be in prison.

On the other end of the spectrum are the Chinese billionaires. I had to laugh at the one selfie of Jack Ma with David Cameron. Cameron’s eyes are practically popping out of his head in unmitigated adulation of all that MONEY!! That’s like pure oxygen for David. They must have had to give him a tranquilizer after that meeting.

What a chilling story — “The Smuggler and the Baby.” Here’s a woman who was a respected physician not that long ago, and who was forced to trust untrustworthy people, sacrifice a large amount of money, and unwittingly put a friend in legal jeopardy just to get herself and her daughter to safety. What a miracle that they were able to be reunited eventually.

I love the story of the long term friendship between Mrs. Moshe Dayan and her prominent Palestinian colleague. Incredible that the friendship actually outlasted Mrs. Dayan’s marriage — which deteriorated under the stress of the wartime hostilities.

What a sad series of photos of the poverty of the Romas in eastern Europe. These people have been denied housing, education and jobs for years and then are blamed for being homeless, ignorant and unemployed.

Now — on to the trivia question! (It’s fun to see it again!) As usual, I have no idea what the right answer is. But that never stopped me from guessing before. So — here we go. Is a vampire sneeze one in which you bite your own tongue in the process of sneezing. 😀 OK. I know that’s cheesy. But it’s the best I’ve got.

Author

Good Morning Everyone!

Will be back with new updates on your Friday morning. Too much traffic here today to get any serious work done.

Watched the debate on CNN and was most impressed with Bernie Sanders after only seeing him in short sound bites previously. He was by far the most passionate and also the most Googled candidate during the debate. Story in Friday’s updates.

Take care and hope to see you soon.

Member

Good Morning/Evening Kalima!

I agree with you regarding the debates, it was refreshing to see an actual debate. I believe Bernie did an excellent job, a few mistakes and some cleaning up needed where the gun issue is concerned I think, but Bernie is a fast learner and I’m sure he will get that together soon. I also believe he could have done a better job explaining what a democratic socialist is, but I’m sure it’s difficult to operate in an atmosphere such as a national debate, especially when you believe the rest of the public is as intelligent as you are. Bernie gives the electorate credit for being smart enough to follow what he is saying. The MSM and Hillary Clinton try to obfuscate and make what he is saying appear to be something it is not. I know I said I would support the nominee, whoever comes out ahead in this primary election on the democrat side, but I don’t believe I could ever vote for Hillary Clinton, and after last nights debate, watching her performance I am convinced I will have to write in Bernie Sanders name if she wins. Can you imagine her actually saying she was representing Wall Street when she was in the Senate, and then having the nerve to say she went up there and told them to cut out the mortgage fraud etc., as if her telling them to stop would make a difference. Question is, what did she do when they didn’t? The same thing she will do when they continue to wreck the economy under a second would be Clinton Presidency, the same thing they did during the first Clinton Presidency, with the help of the President and Congress. I will never vote for Hillary Clinton no matter what the problems might be if she wins the primary and runs against a republican who I of course will not vote for either. I guess I will just have to write Bernie’s name in as a protest vote.

Looking forward to tomorrow’s updates. 🙂

Author

http://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-politics/wp/2015/09/19/what-bernie-sanders-means-by-democratic-socialism-you-have-your-choice-of-pajamas/

Good Morning, monicaangela.

I posted this below on the 25th of September.

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What Bernie Sanders means by ‘democratic socialism.’ (You still have your choice of pajamas.)

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I found Hillary Clinton to be too rehearsed, I saw no passion there, nor did her words ring true. She was the only candidate who didn’t come down hard on Wall Street. Why would she when they have been pouring money into her campaign and the Clinton Foundation? As far as I can see, voters are angry about the amounts of money being thrown around, she is a part of this group, so I can’t see them voting for her.

Well I hope to see you later. Take care.

Member

http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/hillary-clintons-take-on-banks-wont-hold-up-20151014

I found an excellent article that explains her Wall Street connection perfectly. I remember the article you are referring to. I believe Bernie will do a better job explaining in the next debate. I have contacted his campaign committee and asked them to make a better explanation of what a democratic socialist is according to his beliefs in his stump speeches. I sure hope he will take the time to do it, it could help relieve him of what I can see might become a big problem for him.

The article:

Author

Thanks for the article, monicaangela, very interesting.

Hope you find something you like here today.

Take care and see you soon.

Member

I will watch for the MB updates! Thanks for all the work you do to bring MB to us. Looking forward to Fri. AM

Author

Always a pleasure, Nirek.

Take care and peace to you and yours.

Author

http://www.japantoday.com/category/politics/view/opposition-criticize-cabinet-reshuffle-call-for-early-diet-session

Good Morning Everyone!

Sorry about the delay and hope you will find something of interest today.

We went from 27C to 19C in a blink of an eye. My body is still trying to cope with the huge drop in temperature. The upside is that I can think much more clearly now compared to a few months ago. My scrambled brains are almost gone although I still have trouble remembering what day it is. Nobody’s perfect.

Have a good day wherever you may be. Take care, be safe, stay warm and comfy.

Sayonara from my already dark afternoon corner of Tokyo. Mata ne.

Our Moment of Zen

John Cleese on Stupidity

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=wvVPdyYeaQU
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
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Opposition criticize cabinet reshuffle

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Nobel winner Kajita says he was ‘unusually blessed’ with talented people around him

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/10/07/national/science-health/nobel-winner-kajita-says-unusually-blessed-talented-people-around/

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Poverty, isolation push Japan’s child abuse cases to record high

http://mainichi.jp/english/english/newsselect/news/20151008p2g00m0dm065000c.html

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Ogasawara islander of Western descent says her WWII lasted for decades

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2015/10/08/national/ogasawara-islander-western-descent-says-wwii-lasted-decades/

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PICTURE OF THE DAY

National：’Monkey face’ orchid lures Kyoto botanical garden visitors

http://mainichi.jp/graph/2015/10/07/20151007p2a00m0na030000c/001.html
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INTERNATIONAL NEWS
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Absolute rot!
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David Cameron: I will secure a Great British take-off that leaves no-one behind

Conservative Party conference: Prime Minister’s speech sets out vision for tackling Britain’s deep-seated social problems by improving social mobility, ending racial discrimination, reforming prisons and tackling extremism

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/politics/david-cameron/11917474/david-cameron-speech-conservative-party-conference.html

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It’s no wonder David Cameron wants a ‘greater Britain’ – so far he’s driven it into the ground

The Tories have failed to achieve any of their own economic targets, and only worsened living conditions, child poverty and the housing crisis

http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/david-cameron-wants-a-a-greater-britain-but-all-hes-done-so-far-is-create-a-much-lesser-one-a6685021.html

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This is as good as it’s going to get for Cameron – and he knows it
Polly Toynbee

‘The NHS safe because of us’ was just one boast unwinding as he spoke. Secretly he must wish he could quit right now

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2015/oct/07/this-is-as-good-as-its-going-to-get-for-cameron-and-he-knows-it

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Syria crisis: Nato to discuss Russia air campaign

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-34471849

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EU anti-trafficking mission launched in Mediterranean

Warships off Libyan coast will seek to catch smugglers who bring people to the continent through dangerous sea route.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/10/eu-anti-trafficking-mission-launched-mediterranean-151007052123233.html

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Back an integrated EU or quit, Francois Hollande warns Britain

The French president tells Nigel Farage that it is logical for Britain to quit the union during an altercation with the Ukip leader in the European parliament

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/francois-hollande/11917960/Back-an-integrated-EU-or-quit-Francois-Hollande-warns-Britain.html

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Obama apologises to MSF president for Kunduz bombing

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-34467631

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The conservative evasion on guns

https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/obama-forces-us-to-face-reality-on-mass-shootings/2015/10/02/5e1449b6-693d-11e5-9ef3-fde182507eac_story.html

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5 Indefensible Tweets From The NRA Since The Oregon Gun Massacre

http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2015/10/07/3709919/tweets-nra-oregon-shooting/

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Dems, Don’t Freak Out About Rubio Just Yet by Michael Tomasky

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/10/06/dems-don-t-freak-out-about-rubio-just-yet.html

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How Bernie Sanders’ New Bill Would Help More Workers Unionize

http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2015/10/07/3710080/sanders/

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SHADY GROUP THAT PLAYED POPE FRANCIS

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/10/05/the-shady-group-that-played-pope-francis.html

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JEB BUSH SHOULD FACE FACTS: IT’S TIME TO DROP OUT

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/10/06/jeb-bush-should-face-facts-it-s-time-to-drop-out.html

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Carly Fiorina’s Shameless Promotion

The rising presidential candidate burns with conviction — when the cause is herself.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/07/opinion/frank-bruni-carly-fiorinas-shameless-promotion.html?

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Trump will lose, or I will eat this column

https://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/trump-will-lose-or-i-will-eat-this-column/2015/10/02/1fd5c94a-6906-11e5-9ef3-fde182507eac_story.html

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Virginia for the Win: Why Trump is paying for signatures

https://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/all-opinions-are-local/wp/2015/10/07/virginia-for-the-win-why-trump-is-paying-for-signatures/

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Huh??
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Rupert Murdoch implies Obama is not ‘real black president’ in tweet praising Ben Carson

Media mogul says Republican contender could ‘properly address the racial divide’ in tweets criticising Obama’s record in office

http://www.theguardian.com/media/2015/oct/08/rupert-murdoch-obama-not-real-black-president-tweet-ben-carson

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‘More than 90%’ of Russian airstrikes in Syria have not targeted Isis, US says

Russia has been aiming at moderate Syrian opposition who are anti-Assad, said State Department in first statement on specific figures of recent Russian strikes

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/oct/07/russia-airstrikes-syria-not-targetting-isis

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Russia says checking claim its plane violated Turkey’s airspace for second time

http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/10/06/us-mideast-crisis-syria-russia-idUSKCN0S00SX20151006?feedType=nl&feedName=usmorningdigest

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RUSSIA IS BOMBING AMBULANCES IN SYRIA

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2015/10/06/why-are-the-russians-bombing-my-ambulances.html

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Reports: Russian jets strike Syrian provinces

At least four dead and dozens injured in attacks in Hama province and in areas bordering Idlib province, activists say.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/10/reports-russian-jets-strike-syrian-provinces-151007052934961.html

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Syria conflict: Russian air strikes ‘hit three medical facilities’

The strikes fell more than 30 miles from Isis targets

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/syria-conflict-russian-airstrikes-hit-three-medical-facilities-a6685476.html

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A vigil for Mordechai Vanunu’s wish to leave Israel

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/oct/07/a-vigil-for-mordechai-vanunu-wish-to-leave-israel

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In Jerusalem, religion is an excuse for violence, not the reason for it

In Israel, political vacuums are opportunistically filled by extremists
http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/in-jerusalem-religion-is-an-excuse-for-violence-not-the-reason-for-it-a6685211.html

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Analysis: Netanyahu ‘better not disturb the status quo’

The simmering violence in Jerusalem has been close to boiling point for the past year, analysts say.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/2015/10/analysis-netanyahu-disturb-status-quo-151006104748831.html

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Violence in Israel and the Palestinian territories – the Guardian briefing

Months of escalating tension, driven by the Israeli far-right and Jewish zealots on one side and frustrated young Palestinians on the other, have boiled over into clashes and lethal attacks. Can leaders on both sides contain the violence?

http://www.theguardian.com/news/2015/oct/07/violence-israel-palestinian-territories-guardian-briefing

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Palestinian president warns people not to ‘militarise’ protests

Carefully worded statement by Mahmoud Abbas stops short of calling for Palestinians to cease confronting Israeli security forces as violence spreads

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/oct/06/palestinian-president-mahmoud-abbas-warns-people-not-to-militarise-protests-israel

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Palestinians yearn for a ray of hope

Young Palestinians look around them and see very little reason for hope.

http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/opinion/2015/10/palestinians-yearn-ray-hope-abbas-oslo-flag-151005111431936.html

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Many years old but worth watching again.
————

Interviewer gets fucked by Noam Chomsky

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=9CKpCGjD8wg

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Ebola countries record first week with no new cases

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-34471234

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Islamic State ‘used mustard gas’ against peshmerga

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-34471237

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U.S. military struggles to explain how it wound up bombing Doctors Without Borders hospital

https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/checkpoint/wp/2015/10/05/afghan-forces-requested-airstrike-that-hit-hospital-in-kunduz/

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Ha ha!!
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Kim Jong-un insists inherited rule best for a socialist state

Ahead of anniversary celebrations in Pyongyang, Kim insists hereditary leadership ‘solves problems of ideology’

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/northkorea/11918386/Kim-Jong-un-insists-inherited-rule-best-for-a-socialist-state.html

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Aung San Suu Kyi vows to lead Burma despite being barred from presidency

The Nobel laureate is not allowed to become president because of her British family but she has insisted that she will still run Burma if her National League for Democracy wins historic elections

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/burmamyanmar/11918384/Aung-San-Suu-Kyi-vows-to-lead-Burma-despite-being-barred-from-presidency.html
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Madeeha al-Musawi, An Iraqi Heroine

http://www.newyorker.com/news/news-desk/madeeha-al-musawi-an-iraqi-heroine

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Kashmir earthquake: Broken city, broken promises

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-34464815

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Lifting the lid on Australia’s child sex abuse

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-34355662

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America’s Gun Madness, as Seen From Europe

Limits on gun possession in France means that we can go about our daily lives without fear of being shot at school, stores or movie theaters.

http://www.nytimes.com/2015/10/08/opinion/americas-gun-madness-as-seen-from-europe.html

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Myanmar’s Ma Ba Tha monks flex their political muscle

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-34463455

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Woman born deaf who is now going blind takes beauty spot tour

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-england-tyne-34339499

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Who killed Elsie Frost?

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-34314171

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Scenes from a North Korean hospital – in pictures

Student doctor Josiah Cha joined a group of international medics on a mission to the DPRK. He met committed staff struggling amid a crumbling system
I went on a medical mission to North Korea – any questions for me?

http://www.theguardian.com/world/gallery/2015/oct/08/north-korean-hospital-surgery-in-pictures

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Pictures of the day: 7 October 2015

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/picturesoftheday/11916031/Pictures-of-the-day-7-October-2015.html

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Best photographs of the day 7 October 2015

Each day the picture editor of the Guardian brings you a selection of photo highlights

http://www.theguardian.com/news/series/ten-best-photographs-of-the-day

Member

Good day Kalima.

Glad for you that the weather has cooled there. It is much better here,too. The hot humid weather drains my energy and makes me uncomfortable.

Thanks for the great Bernie story, I bookmarked it to use later. You are right that Jeb should get out. Nobody wants another bush!

Don’t worry about eating this MB because Trump will NOT win.

I predict a landslide victory for Bernie!

Peace and good health to you.

Member

sillylittleme

What Nirek said.

Member

sillylittleme

Good morning Kalima,
I was wondering what the TPP looks like from the other side. We don’t hear much about its impact in Eastern Asia, not that we know what’s in it. Was curious if it was being reported locally and what they were saying.

Hope all is well with you. Thanks for all the reading material.

Author