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Comments Posted By Kalima

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Morning Blog

Hello kes. Great to see you here.

Yes we do seem to have one thing after the other here and as usual the Japanese will stand up straight and move on. I hope that the lesson from this latest tragedy will be that people will be restricted from climbing as far as the summit on any dormant but active volcano, especially one as large as Mt. Fuji. Today I read that so far, 46 of the 47 who died, had massive injuries to their heads and backs from the flying boulders ejected from the craters at speeds of up to 300 mph. No one could survive that. Very sad.

From a report in WaPo I linked to, Pierson decreased security instead of increasing it at very necessary times. Makes you wonder where her head was situated, doesn’t it?

I’m sure that the German students are over the moon, then again it makes perfect sense that the next generation should receive a good education without having to worry about how to pay for it. Some of them will become leaders in their fields or eventually lead the country.

I agree that the orthodox men should hire and pay for their own plane if they insist on insulting the women passengers who have payed for their own tickets. They can do whatever they want in the privacy of their own homes, but once they mix with others, the religious extremism should stop there.

This is a story I linked to on the 21st of September here that happened in London. Thankfully the local council wasn’t having any of it. What a nerve!

“London council removes ‘unacceptable’ Stamford Hill posters telling women which side of the road to walk down”

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/london-council-removes-unacceptable-stamford-hill-posters-telling-women-which-side-of-the-road-to-walk-down-9746012.html

Loved Tomasky’s article but can’t bring myself to feel any sympathy for people who try to make the lives of others hell by voting for arseholes to help them to do it.

The Rolling Stone exposé of the Kochs was great. They can protest all they want to but the rock they live under has been moved and now we can see what lurks underneath it.

I’m glad you had a chance to watch the video. Like you, I found her beautiful and realise what an effort it must have been to sit there, talk about how difficult it had been for her as a tall woman to find clothes that fit, the insult from the cowardly ex-boyfriend, to finally understanding that she was perfect just as she was and have the confidence to take off her clothes on camera to prove it. I found it so refreshing and totally honest. Hope she has many more years to enjoy her freedom from the oppression of near “perfection” (whatever that is) some women have to strive for every day.

Have a peaceful day. Take care and see you soon.

» Posted By Kalima On October 2, 2014 @ 11:46 pm

I can sympathise with buggy computers as I’m having a few with my iPod Touch that are driving me batty until the new one is on sale here.

I don’t believe that any members here were glad you were not able to post, and just for the record, the Admin team missed you. Good to have you back with your computer running smoothly. Nothing more annoying than a moody computer.

Take care.

» Posted By Kalima On October 2, 2014 @ 5:24 pm

Hello Nirek. I’m so glad that you fixed your computer problem and that I can see you here again. I’ve missed you.

It is very scary living here, especially with strong earthquakes that are so frequent. You tend to sleep with one eye open waiting for the aftershocks. In the end, you kind of get used to it because you can’t change it.

Hope you find a few interesting stories in today’s updates.

Thanks for stopping by. I care too. Peace to you and yours.

» Posted By Kalima On October 2, 2014 @ 4:27 pm

Good Morning Everyone.

The news from the rescue operation on Mount Ontake is that so far 47 bodies have been recovered with many more missing. The rule is that all who climb Mt Ontake and other mountains in Japan, should register in case of an emergency, but many didn’t, making the number still unaccounted for difficult to estimate. From today they are expecting rain and that could mean dangerous mudslides. Latest story below.

Have a good day wherever you may be. Take care, be safe, stay cool and dry.

Sayonara from my darkening corner of Tokyo. Mata ne,
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A few stories and opinions from around the globe.
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Mount Ontake death toll rises to 47, making it Japan’s worst volcanic disaster in almost 90 years

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2014/10/01/national/ontake-search-resumes-amid-volcanic-tremors/#.VCzQEoTXfCQ

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He should be ashamed of himself. No one predicted the tsunami that wreaked TEPCO’s Daiichi plant in Fukushima, yet look at what happened.
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Nuclear safety chief counters experts over volcanic hazards

http://mainichi.jp/english/english/newsselect/news/20141002p2g00m0dm042000c.html

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Abductees’ families warn official visit to Pyongyang may not yield answers

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2014/10/01/national/politics-diplomacy/abductees-families-warn-official-visit-pyongyang-may-yield-answers/#.VCzPyITXfCQ

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Norway named best place to grow old; Japan 9th

http://www.japantoday.com/category/lifestyle/view/norway-named-best-place-to-grow-old-japan-9th

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Unicare unveils ‘anti-loneliness’ hugging chair

http://www.japantoday.com/category/national/view/unicare-unveils-anti-loneliness-hugging-chair

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PICTURE OF THE DAY

Helping hand

http://www.japantoday.com/category/picture-of-the-day/view/helping-hand-8
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INTERNATIONAL NEWS
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Accidentally? Really??
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David Cameron accidentally says he resents the poor

http://i100.independent.co.uk/article/david-cameron-accidentally-says-he-resents-the-poor–xyEAyXjPBl

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Ukip’s assault on the NHS would ensure its extinction

The public needs to know that Ukip would sell off the lucrative parts of the NHS quicker than the present government given half a chance

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/oct/02/ukip-assault-on-nhs-extinction

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Many in rural regions where they are most needed.
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Up to 600 GP surgeries could close over course of next year as doctors retire

Number of young medics choosing general practice falls short of those leaving as patient numbers increase, says GPs’ leader

http://www.theguardian.com/society/2014/oct/02/600-gp-surgeries-close-doctors-retire-maureen-baker-warning

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Single mothers are the real casualties in Cameron’s class war

By making the poorest pay for tax cuts, the Tories are clearly happy to see lone parents – and their kids – eat toast for dinner

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/oct/01/single-mothers-david-cameron-class-war-conservatives-tory-party-conference

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Another bald-faced, lying war criminal.
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Radovan Karadžić tells war crimes trial there was no ethnic cleansing in Bosnia

Ex-Bosnian Serb leader makes stunning remark at end of ICC trial in The Hague, saying he was a ‘true friend to Muslims’

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/01/radovan-karadzic-war-crimes-trial-no-ethnic-cleansing-bosnia

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Rebel push to take Donetsk airport

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-29455133

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Deadly attack on Donetsk school

A shell blast kills four people at a school in the rebel-held Ukrainian city of Donetsk on the first day of classes, delayed because of the conflict.

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-29455133

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Secret service director Julie Pierson resigns after series of security lapses

First female secret service chief bows to pressure to quit after House hearing revealed evidence chronicling security failures

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/01/secret-service-director-resigns-white-house-security-lapses

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Obama’s Secret Service has become sloppy with its delusions of Hollywood grandeur

After a number of shocking security lapses, it’s time the leader of the free world’s safety was taken seriously

http://www.independent.co.uk/voices/comment/obamas-secret-service-has-become-sloppy-with-its-delusions-of-hollywood-grandeur-9768426.html

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Pierson failed to provide fresh start for Secret Service that administration wanted

http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/pierson-failed-to-provide-fresh-start-for-secret-service-that-administration-wanted/2014/10/01/51a642a2-49a8-11e4-891d-713f052086a0_story.html

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Florida man found guilty of first-degree murder in ‘loud music’ retrial

Michael Dunn convicted for killing of 17-year-old Jordan Davis in incident stemming from argument over loud music

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/01/florida-man-guilty-first-degree-loud-music-retrial

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This Country Just Abolished College Tuition Fees

http://thinkprogress.org/education/2014/10/01/3574551/germany-free-college-tuition/

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Well done to the bus company for refusing this disgraceful ad.
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Pro-Israel group sues NY bus company for refusing ‘Hamas killing Jews’ ad

Adverts on buses were refused as they could ‘incited violence’

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/11134927/Pro-Israel-group-sues-NY-bus-company-for-refusing-Hamas-killing-Jews-ad.html

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Ebola in US: Children came in contact with patient suffering from the deadly virus

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/ebola-in-us-children-came-in-contact-with-patient-suffering-from-deadly-virus-9768380.html

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OMG!!
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Republicans’ Latest Pitch To Women: Voting Is Just Like Picking A Wedding Dress

http://thinkprogress.org/election/2014/10/01/3574672/say-yes-to-the-candidate/

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Even nuttier.
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Top Republican Presidential Candidate Says Anarchy May Force Cancellation Of 2016 Election

http://thinkprogress.org/election/2014/09/28/3573103/ben-carson-anarchy-election/

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Children killed in Homs double blast

Attack outside primary school in central Syrian city kills at least 45 people, including 41 children.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2014/10/children-killed-homs-double-blasts-201410113272780724.html

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HOW TO CUT OFF ISIS TERROR TYCOONS

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/09/26/how-to-cut-off-isis-terror-tycoons.html

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Turkey MPs vote to join war on IS

Turkey’s parliament backs a motion that could allow its military to enter Iraq and Syria to fight Islamic State militants.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-29455204

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Turkish MPs to vote on military action against Isis

Legislators poised to vote on deployment of troops in Iraq and Syria as pressure piles on Turkey to join anti-Isis coalition

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/01/turkish-mps-vote-military-action-isis-islamic-state-syria-iraq

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Bedouins fear Israeli resettlement plans

Development and rights groups believe the aim is to free up land for Israel to expand settlement in the West Bank.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2014/09/bedouins-fear-israeli-resettlement-plans-201493081221641315.html

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Great image. In London they put up signs to tell women which side of the street to walk on, until they were removed by local councils that is.
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Israeli airline faces calls to stop ‘bullying’ of female passengers by ultra-Orthodox Jews

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/israeli-airline-facing-calls-to-stop-bullying-of-female-passengers-by-ultraorthodox-jews-9766617.html

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Gaza portraits: the one thing I saved from the rubble

Tanks and airstrikes blasted holes in people’s homes, offering us a glimpse into their lives, and these evocative images of Gaza residents show them with cherished items salvaged from the devastation
• ActionAid is working in Gaza providing essential supplies like food and medicine for people whose homes have been damaged or destroyed.

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/01/-sp-gaza-portraits-the-one-thing-i-saved-from-the-rubble

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Bahrain human rights activist arrested over tweets

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-29454283

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Ebola outbreak: ‘Five infected every hour’ in Sierra Leone

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-29453755

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‘Africa’s arms dump’: following the trail of bullets in the Sudans

Sudan and South Sudan are among the most heavily armed countries in the world. The Niles investigates how this came about and the consequences of spiraling bloodshed

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/oct/02/-sp-africa-arms-dump-south-sudan

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Iran filmmakers back nuclear deal

Six prominent Iranian filmmakers launch a campaign urging world powers to agree a permanent solution to the dispute over Iran’s nuclear programme.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-29449703

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Australian air force carries out first support missions against Isis in Iraq

Wedgetail early warning and control aircraft and refueller aircraft used in assisting role, says Defence

http://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2014/oct/02/australian-air-force-carries-out-first-support-missions-against-isis-in-iraq

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Iraq PM opposes Arab strikes in Iraq

Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi tells the BBC he “totally” opposes Arab nations joining air strikes against Islamic State in his country.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-29447201

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‘Racist’ Indian mob attacks African students

A mob attack on three terrified Africans in Delhi has raised new allegations of racism in India

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/india/11132768/Racist-Indian-mob-attacks-African-students.html

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Pakistan struggling to cope with surge in polio cases

Once on track for polio eradication, Pakistan now faces a setback as a result of inaccessibility, violence and misinformation

http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2014/oct/01/pakistan-struggling-cope-surge-polio-cases

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Kabul Bank fraud: Ghani reopens Afghan corruption case

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-29450821

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Less than a week ago China said that they were confident that the Hong Kong authorities would be able to control the protests.
————

Hong Kong: China warns of ‘unimaginable consequences’ if pro-democracy campaign demonstrations continue

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/hong-kong-lord-patten-tells-beijing-they-are-reneging-on-twosystem-deal-9768205.html

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Hong Kong protests force China to suspend tours

China suspends tour groups to Hong Kong amid protests and warns that the city is on the verge of falling into ‘chaos’

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/hongkong/11134931/Hong-Kong-protests-force-China-to-suspends-tours.html

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Wang Dan: HK protests ‘inspire new generation’

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-china-29437844

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😯
————

Kim Jong-un ‘so fat he has fractured his ankles’

North Korean leader in hospital as his feet fail to take the strain of his ever-increasing weight, newspaper claims

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/northkorea/11131885/Kim-Jong-un-so-fat-he-has-fractured-his-ankles.html
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Captured by the Islamic State, these two teenagers went through hell. Then they ran

Sara and Leila both survived the mass capture of Yazidi women and children in Iraq last month. These are their stories.

http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/regions/middle-east/140929/how-two-teenagers-yazidi-girls-sinjar-escaped-islamic-state

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George Zimmerman, Darren Wilson and the kickstarted defense: you call this justice?

Is crowd-sourced funding the new public defender? Just ask the killers of Trayvon Martin and Michael Brown – or the secret conservatives who pay their legal fees

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/oct/01/george-zimmerman-darren-wilson-crowd-sourced-legal-fees

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THE RELIGIOUS RIGHT’S SLOW-MOTION SUICIDE by Michael Tomasky

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/09/29/social-conservatives-face-the-precipice.html

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Inside the Koch Brothers’ Toxic Empire

http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/inside-the-koch-brothers-toxic-empire-20140924

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I told Harvard I was an undocumented immigrant. They gave me a full scholarship.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/posteverything/wp/2014/09/24/i-told-harvard-i-was-an-undocumented-immigrant-they-gave-me-a-full-scholarship/

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The Iraqis who laugh at Islamic State

A TV comedy in the war torn country is proving popular online.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs-trending-29431788

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Cerro Rico: Devil worship on the man-eating mountain

http://www.bbc.com/news/magazine-29448079

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I loved this.
————

The What’s Underneath Project: Jacky O’Shaughnessy

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=mBZQpsXUsfw

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Flights re-routed to avoid walrus stampede on Alaska beach

An estimated 35,000 of the animals were spotted as summer sea ice fell to its sixth lowest in the satellite record

http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/oct/01/walrus-alaska-beach-trampled-death

Walrus mass on Alaska beach – in pictures

http://www.theguardian.com/environment/gallery/2014/oct/01/walrus-mass-on-alaska-beach-in-pictures

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How keep-fit gyms gripped Victorians

The secrets of Victorian gym regimes are revealed in a 19th Century book, found in the archives of a library in London.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-28858090

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Why Japan’s sunny beaches are deserted

For much of September, Tokyo basked in temperatures of 25C or more. In most countries there would be a rush for the beach, but not in Japan.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-29429742

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Canada switches on world’s first carbon capture power plant

Boundary Dam held up as first commercial-scale CCS plant and proof that coal-burning is compatible with cutting emissions

http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/oct/01/canada-switches-on-worlds-first-carbon-capture-power-plant

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Make Life Worth Living: Nick Hedges’ photographs for Shelter

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/photography/11128331/Make-Life-Worth-Living-Nick-Hedges-photographs-for-Shelter.html

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Pictures of the day: 1 October 2014

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/picturesoftheday/11132726/Pictures-of-the-day-1-October-2014.html

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Day in pictures: 1 October

http://www.bbc.com/news/in-pictures-29442220

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Photo highlights of the day

The Guardian’s picture editors bring you a selection of the best photographs from around the world, including the Hajj pilgrimage, the fight against Ebola, the protests in Hong Kong on China’s National Day, and the Dussehra festival in India

http://www.theguardian.com/news/gallery/2014/oct/01/photo-highlights-of-the-day

» Posted By Kalima On October 2, 2014 @ 1:57 am

We have been experiencing many earthquakes over the last few months and although experts say that they can’t predict eruptions, surely it is a warning sign. I remarked to my husband only last week that the frequency of quakes was a bit alarming.

This is the latest from my newspaper, and thank you all for your kind concern. I’ll be back later to reply to your comments. We are safe as this happened in a neighbouring prefecture/state.

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Four Mount Ontake climbers confirmed dead after eruption

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2014/09/28/national/rescue-operations-resume-on-mount-ontake-after-major-eruption/#.VCiGDITXfCQ

» Posted By Kalima On September 28, 2014 @ 3:20 pm

Japanese troops search mountain after volcano traps dozens

Up to 32 hikers could be missing and dozens injured after Mount Ontake erupted without warning

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/28/japanese-troops-search-volcano-traps-dozens

» Posted By Kalima On September 27, 2014 @ 11:37 pm

Good Morning Everyone.

Not quite sure if the typhoon has past yet but so far not much wind although plenty of rain from the outer bands. Expecting hubby to return dripping tonight.

Have a good day wherever you may be. Take care, be safe, stay cool and dry.

Sayonara from my wet and windy corner of Tokyo. Mata ne.

Quote of the Day

Alexander Hamilton

Men often oppose a thing merely because they have had no agency in planning it, or because it may have been planned by those whom they dislike.

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

Tepco to start removing blast debris from reactor 1 building in late 2015

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2014/09/23/national/tepco-plans-remove-blast-debris-inside-reactor-1-building-late-15/#.VCJZeYTXfCQ

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16,000 people gather at Tokyo park to protest against restart of nuclear plants

http://mainichi.jp/english/english/newsselect/news/20140924p2a00m0na021000c.html

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Japan, Iran agree to keep discussing Islamic State issue

http://mainichi.jp/english/english/newsselect/news/20140924p2g00m0dm023000c.html

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China, Japan resume talks over maritime issues

http://www.japantoday.com/category/politics/view/china-japan-resume-talks-over-maritime-issues

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Why does Japan have so many overhead power lines?

http://www.japantoday.com/category/lifestyle/view/why-does-japan-have-so-many-overhead-power-lines

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PICTURE OF THE DAY

Dear departed animals

http://www.japantoday.com/category/picture-of-the-day/view/dear-departed-animals
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INTERNATIONAL NEWS
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Nine arrested in London anti-terrorism raid

Met says operation is part of ongoing battle against Islamist terror groups

http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2014/sep/25/nine-arrested-london-anti-terrorism

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Post-referendum, English nationalism is the elephant in the room

The Westminster stitch-up is a British construct. The left needs to accept that English identity is more nuanced: messy, funny, irrational and workable

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/sep/24/post-referendum-english-nationalism-is-the-elephant-in-the-room

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Trinity Mirror ‘could face hundreds of claims’ from phone hacking victims

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/trinity-mirror-could-face-hundreds-of-claims-from-phone-hacking-victims-9753909.html

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Oh Alex, pleeeeease! You lost, deal with it.
————

Alex Salmond urged to abandon ‘conspiracy theories’ over why Scotland did not vote for independence

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/alex-salmond-urged-to-abandon-conspiracy-theories-over-why-scotland-did-not-vote-for-independence-9752898.html

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French hostage beheaded by Islamic State-linked jihadists

Video posted by Soldiers of the Caliphate claims that Herve Gourdel, a French hiker abducted in Algeria, has been murdered after Paris refused to stop air strikes in Syria

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/france/11119314/French-hostage-beheaded-by-Islamic-State-linked-jihadists.html

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Alleged jihadis allowed back into France after passport control glitch

French ministers criticise ‘huge blunder’ in which police failed to detain three men with suspected links to Islamic State

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/24/alleged-jihadists-french-airport-fail-arrest-turkey

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Briton ‘used carbon trading to fund terror’

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/briton-used-carbon-trading-to-fund-terror-9754108.html

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‘Romania’s Nuremberg’ begins with prison camp commandant

Alexandru Visinescu, 88, finally appears in court charged with crimes against humanity for his role in Romania’s communist justice system

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/romania/11118898/Romanias-Nuremberg-begins-with-prison-camp-commandant.html

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Ukraine PM asks West to not to ease sanctions on Russia

Arseniy Yatsenyuk’s plea came hours after Barack Obama offered to lift sanctions against Moscow if it threw its weight behind an unraveling peace deal with Kiev

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/ukraine/11120310/Ukraine-PM-asks-West-to-not-to-ease-sanctions-on-Russia.html

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Watch live: Barack Obama addresses United Nations on Islamic State threat

US President Barack Obama will urge world leaders to unite to stop the rise of foreign fighters in countries like Syria and Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia and others

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/defence/10607251/Watch-live-Barack-Obama-addresses-United-Nations-on-Islamic-State-threat.html

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Full text of Barack Obama’s speech to the UN General Assembly

President Barack Obama addresses the UN following US air strikes against Isil targets in Syria

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/barackobama/11119048/Full-text-of-Barack-Obamas-speech-to-the-UN-General-Assembly.html

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The Right-Wing’s Trashy Response To The Biggest Climate March Ever

http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2014/09/23/3570840/climate-march-trash-news/

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FBI report shows mass shootings are on the rise in America

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/fbi-report-shows-mass-shootings-are-on-the-rise-in-america-9754387.html

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Walmart video shows moments before officer killed man on cellphone

Footage emerges after grand jury declines to indict police officer who shot John Crawford III, and differs from account of 911 call

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/24/surveillance-video-walmart-shooting-john-crawford-police

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Michael Brown: Ferguson protests flare up again

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-29336962

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FIVE AWFUL GOP GOVERNORS WHO NEED TO GO by Michael Tomasky

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/09/22/five-awful-gop-governors-who-need-to-go.html

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Republican control of Senate not a slam dunk by E.J. Dionne

http://www.washingtonpost.com/opinions/ej-dionne-republican-control-of-senate-not-a-slam-dunk-the-mystifying-election/2014/09/21/aabd9bd6-4036-11e4-b0ea-8141703bbf6f_story.html?wpisrc=nl_opin&wpmm=1

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G.O.P. Error Reveals Donors and the Price of Access

An unintended disclosure of documents from the Republican Governors Association opens a window onto corporate donors and the size of their checks.

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/25/us/republicans-corporate-donors-governors.html?_r=0

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US targets Islamic State-controlled oil refineries in Syria – live updates

David Cameron makes UN pitch to join battle against Isis
RAF could start air strikes this weekend if MPs back action
Ban Ki-moon cautions against military-only response to terrorism
British teenage jihadi killed in Syria

http://www.theguardian.com/world/middle-east-live/live/2014/sep/25/us-targets-isis-controlled-oil-refineries-in-syria-live-updates

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US hits IS oil targets in Syria

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-middle-east-29357934

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Islamic State trains children to be suicide bombers

An Isil training camp in Raqqa specialises in training children under the age of 16 to become suicide bombers, sources say

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/11119879/Islamic-State-trains-children-to-be-suicide-bombers.html

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Eight men put on trial in Cairo over Egypt’s ‘first gay marriage’

Prosecutors allege the men participated in a gay wedding that sparked media backlash after footage of the ceremony emerged

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/24/eight-men-trial-cairo-egypt-alleged-gay-marriage

—-

Gazans sceptical of Cairo truce talks

A month since the ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian factions began, but not much has changed for people in Gaza.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2014/09/gaza-truce-talks-2014924724759919.html

—-

The Guardian view on the human, economic and political costs of the Gaza war

The kidnapping and murder of three Israeli boys was a horrendous crime, but it need not have led to war

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/sep/24/guardian-view-human-economic-political-costs-gaza-war

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‘I have never seen this number of bodies before’: Life at an Ebola clinic in Liberia

Scale of Ebola outbreak in Western Africa leaves staff of frontline health agency with grim decisions over who to treat and who to turn away

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/ebola/11118025/I-have-never-seen-this-number-of-bodies-before-Life-at-an-Ebola-clinic-in-Liberia.html

—-

Boko Haram lists prisoners in possible schoolgirl swap

A list of the prisoners Boko Haram wants released in exchange for the 220 schoolgirls abducted in April includes former spokesman Abu Qaqa

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/africaandindianocean/nigeria/11119688/Boko-Haram-lists-prisoners-in-possible-schoolgirl-swap.html

—-

Funnily enough I said the same thing here below in a recent conversation on the 16th of September about Iran being allowed to join in the fight against IS, and that they could use this as a bargaining chip in further meetings about their nuclear ambitions.
————

WILL IRAN SELL OUT AL QAEDA FOR NUKES?

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/09/25/will-iran-sell-out-al-qaeda-for-nukes.html

—-

😯
————

Terror threat puts Australia on alert, but ‘darkening’ situation is raising the government’s popularity

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/australasia/terror-threat-puts-australia-on-alert-but-darkening-situation-is-raising-the-governments-popularity-9754003.html

—-

Philippine militants threaten to kill German hostages

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-29352920

—-

Indonesia’s Aceh province debates public floggings for homosexuality

Bill in provincial parliament raises fears that country’s only region with sharia law will create more draconian society

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/24/indonesia-aceh-homosexuality-gay-flogging
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Ebola’s children: here in hospital for a week and then gone forever

There is a divide in Liberia, keeping the healthy and privileged from the sick and needy. But I could not help crossing it

http://www.theguardian.com/global-development/poverty-matters/2014/sep/24/ebola-children-liberia-medic-msf

—-

What is a Rockefeller without oil?

John D’s descendants may have severed their links to the black gold that made their fortune, but the family remains synonymous with wealth and power, and few have managed that

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/energy/oilandgas/11116264/What-is-a-Rockefeller-without-oil.html

—-

People of the People’s Climate March

http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/pictures/people-of-the-peoples-climate-march-20140922

—-

Radicalised Muslims in UK more likely to be born in Britain, rich and depressed

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/radicalised-muslims-in-uk-more-likely-to-be-wellheeled-9754062.html

—-

I know the actions of Isis are #NotInMyName, and I won’t be pressured to apologise for them

Why do we feel the instinctive compulsion to distance ourselves from Isis’s crimes, when we know we’re not responsible? Let’s look at the root causes of violence instead

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/sep/25/i-know-the-actions-of-isis-are-notinmyname-and-i-wont-be-pressured-to-apologise-for-them

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The Bedouin of Petra

We follow the B’doul tribe of the ancient Jordanian city of Petra as they eke out a living in a modern-day tourist site.

http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/aljazeeraworld/2014/09/bedouin-petra-201492392849302665.html

—-

IN TEXAS TEXTBOOKS, MOSES IS A FOUNDING FATHER

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/09/22/in-texas-textbooks-moses-is-a-founding-father.html

—-

AUDIO SLIDESHOW

Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2014

From a close up look at the swirling angry gases on the Sun, to a serene night sky filled with a shimmering green aurora – the annual competition showcasing the cosmos beyond our planet has produced some stunning photographs.

http://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-29245828

—-

Pictures of the day: 24 September 2014

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/picturesoftheday/11117710/Pictures-of-the-day-24-September-2014.html

—-

Day in pictures: 24 September

http://www.bbc.com/news/in-pictures-29341148

—-

Photo highlights of the day

The Guardian’s picture editors bring you a selection of the best photographs from around the world, including the Ryder Cup

http://www.theguardian.com/news/gallery/2014/sep/24/photo-highlights-of-the-day

» Posted By Kalima On September 25, 2014 @ 1:56 am

Hello kes. Don’t worry, I thought that my yesterday was Thursday and today was Wednesday, and you think you have a problem? 🙂

Yes those Japanese sailors did have to wait a long time to find that out and that was a shame.

Cat Heaven island is a busy tourist attraction for cat lovers and there have been quite a few documentaries about it here. Those felines look like a contented bunch don’t they?

Shameful about cutting off the water supply to poor families in Detroit, and it’s been going on for some time now. How do people survive without water?

I am not surprised that the witch Geller is involved in those disgraceful bus ads in NY. Seems like the only place her brain will survive in is in the gutter.

Must be a sin to be HAPPY in Iran. Ridiculous and as always, barbaric.

Great story about the nuns, they are taking up the charge on so many issues, like the elderly nun imprisoned for trying to spotlight the danger of that nuclear power plant. They should be ashamed of themselves for putting her through that.

It’s a bit windy with heavy showers on and off but I think the typhoon might have passed us by.

Take care and have a peaceful day. See you soonish.

» Posted By Kalima On September 25, 2014 @ 1:22 am

LIVE: Syria air strikes

Live updates as the Pentagon confirms that the US and “partner nations” have begun air strikes against Islamic State targets in Syria.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-29321236

» Posted By Kalima On September 23, 2014 @ 12:51 am

Thanks, Fergie, I’ll stay indoors.

Yes unfortunately, finding happy stories to post is becoming quite difficult these day but it won’t stop me looking for them.

Be well and it’s great to see you here again.

» Posted By Kalima On September 22, 2014 @ 7:05 pm

Hello Fergie, it’s ok but if you do it again I’ll have to send you off to bed without any supper. 😉

Nice to find you here and hope that things are going better for you in the walking department.

Take care.

» Posted By Kalima On September 22, 2014 @ 7:00 pm

Hello monicaangela, glad you popped in and hope that the rest of your day was good too. Thanks.

» Posted By Kalima On September 21, 2014 @ 11:49 pm

As always, my pleasure Nirek. Thanks for stopping by and reading. I loved the story about the nuns too.

Peace to you and yours.

» Posted By Kalima On September 21, 2014 @ 11:44 pm

Good Morning Everyone.

By next Wednesday we are expecting another typhoon and it has already started with showers here. If it’s anything like the last two I’m not all that worried as they changed course just before they were due to hit the Kanto region.

Have a good day wherever you may be. Take care, be safe, stay cool and dry.

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

Sunday’s Bits & Bobs
~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Rejected: Japan refuses to accept North Korea’s new report on abductees, citing lack of fresh info

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2014/09/21/national/politics-diplomacy/rejected-japan-refuses-accept-north-koreas-new-report-abductees-citing-lack-fresh-info/#.VB5qBEuVsfE

—-

New regulator vows to secure independence of nuclear safety body

http://mainichi.jp/english/english/newsselect/news/20140920p2g00m0dm028000c.html

—-

Tabloids voice alarm over dengue surge

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2014/09/20/national/media-national/tabloids-voice-alarm-dengue-surge/#.VB5qrEuVsfE

—-

‘Missing’ documents reveal 1954 U.S. H-bomb test affected 556 more ships

http://mainichi.jp/english/english/newsselect/news/20140920p2a00m0na013000c.html

—-

The feral felines of Cat Heaven Island

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2014/09/20/national/science-health/feral-felines-cat-heaven-island/#.VB5qREuVsfE

—-

PICTURE OF THE DAY

Clam day

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

Alan Henning kidnapping: British aid worker’s wife appeals to Isis to release him

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/alan-henning-kidnapping-british-aid-workers-wife-appeals-to-isis-to-release-him-9746648.html

—-

😯
————

London council removes ‘unacceptable’ Stamford Hill posters telling women which side of the road to walk down

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/home-news/london-council-removes-unacceptable-stamford-hill-posters-telling-women-which-side-of-the-road-to-walk-down-9746012.html

—-

Friends: The One Where Scots Say No To Dave
In the latest episode of our political sitcom, the Prime Minister regrets his earlier promises

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/11110434/Friends-The-One-Where-Scots-Say-No-To-Dave.html

—-

Scotland referendum analysis: how Alex Salmond’s core vote sealed his fate

Result that saved the Union had many vital components, but perhaps the most significant was the Yes faction’s failure to win in its own backyard

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/11110450/Scotland-referendum-analysis-how-Alex-Salmonds-core-vote-sealed-his-fate.html

—-

French farmers torch tax offices and dump unsold vegetables on streets in protest over falling living standards

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/french-farmers-torch-tax-offices-and-dump-unsold-vegetables-on-streets-in-protest-over-falling-living-standards-9746199.html

—-

Mikhail Khodorkovsky breaks political silence, saying he would lead Russia

The former oil tycoon and adversary of president Vladimir Putin has launched a pro-European political platform from exile

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/21/mikhail-khodorkovsky-breaks-political-silence-prepared-lead-russia

—-

Security stepped up at Vatican over fears of terror attack

Vatican reportedly alerted to threat by foreign security service which intercepted conversation between two Arab speakers

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/the-pope/11110644/Security-stepped-up-at-Vatican-over-fears-of-terror-attack.html

—-

Nato: Ukraine truce ‘in name only’

A two-week-old ceasefire between Ukraine and pro-Russia separatists in the east is a truce “in name only”, says Nato top commander Philip Breedlove.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-europe-29299092

—-

Rift widens between Obama, U.S. military over strategy to fight Islamic State

http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/rift-widens-between-obama-us-military-over-strategy-to-fight-islamic-state/2014/09/18/ebdb422e-3f5c-11e4-b03f-de718edeb92f_story.html

—-

Climate warning to world leaders: stick to 2C limit or face ‘mayhem’

Experts deliver stark message for Obama and Cameron ahead of UN summit in New York

Desmond Tutu: climate change is our global enemy

http://www.theguardian.com/environment/2014/sep/21/un-limit-climate-rise-warning-nicholas-stern-barack-obama-david-cameron

—-

Detroit cuts off water for families

City of Detroit cuts off water for those who do not pay their bills.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-29185710

—-

Portland police’s problem with race: ‘This city is not as liberal as it thinks it is’

New laws have been put in place after a Justice Department investigation into claims of excessive force, but critics say strains of racial prejudice still taint the city’s policing

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/20/portland-police-race-reform-crime

—-

This is disgraceful.
————

Controversial anti-Islam adverts to run on New York buses

Buses and subway stations to carry anti-Islamic adverts bearing picture of James Foley shortly before he was murdered by Isil extremists

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/northamerica/usa/11110768/Controversial-anti-Islam-adverts-to-run-on-New-York-buses.html

—-

Six Russian military planes intercepted by US and Canadian fighter jets near Alaska

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/six-russian-military-planes-intercepted-by-us-and-canadian-fighter-jets-near-alaska-9746125.html

—-

Venezuela’s Crackdown on Opposition

The government’s abuses are dangerous for the region and warrant strong criticism from Latin American leaders.

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/21/opinion/sunday/venezuelas-crackdown-on-opposition.html?_r=0

—-

66,000 Syrians ‘flee to Turkey’

Turkey says at least 66,000 Syrians have crossed the border in 24 hours, as the UN warns hundreds of thousands more may flee an Islamic State advance.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-29294656

—-

Isil hostage timeline

A number of hostages have been kidnapped by Isil during the last two years

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/11111223/Isil-hostage-timeline.html

—-

Turkey celebrates return of hostages and opens border to Kurds fleeing Isis

Government refuses to reveal how 46 captives seized at Turkish consulate in Mosul in June were released

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/20/turkey-hostages-syria-kurds-isis

—-

Egypt to host Gaza talks between Palestinian factions

Fatah and Hamas delegations will meet for mediation before indirect negotiations with Israel commence

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/20/palestine-fatah-hamas-egypt-gaza-reconciliation-talks

—-

UN: Yemen’s rival sides agree peace deal

Fresh clashes reported in Sanaa despite announcement of deal between Houthi rebels and government to end bloodshed.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2014/09/un-yemen-warring-sides-reach-agreement-truce-2014920192028635294.html

—-

Kenya marks anniversary of deadly Westgate mall attack

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-29299596

—-

Sierra Leone Ebola burial team attacked despite lockdown

Armed police chase off attackers targeting team conducting burials in Ebola hit Sierra leone as small groups defy three-day national lockdown

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/ebola/11111527/Sierra-Leone-Ebola-burial-team-attacked-despite-lockdown.html

—-

Boko Haram ‘kills dozens’ at market

Islamist militants from Boko Haram attack a rural market in the Nigerian state of Borno, killing dozens, security officials and witnesses say.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-29297402

—-

ICC summons Kenya leader to hearing

The International Criminal Court orders Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta to appear on 8 October, over claims his government obstructed prosecutors.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-africa-29288981

—-

Such a civilised country.
————

Iran Happy dancers given 91 lashes

Six Iranians arrested for filming a video tribute to Pharrell Williams’ song Happy are sentenced to 91 lashes and jail terms, their lawyer says.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-29272732

—-

Iran open to new US proposals on Tehran’s uranium programme

Plan that would disconnect enriching machines from feeds of uranium being discussed at talks between Iran and six major powers

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/20/iran-open-to-new-us-proposals-on-tehrans-uranium-programme

—-

French launch first strikes on IS

President Hollande says France has carried out its first air strikes against IS militants in Iraq, joining the US in military action against the group.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-29277630

—-

Isil fanatics ‘fear being killed by a woman will deprive them of virgins in paradise’

Women fighters joining ranks of Kurdish peshmerga forces hold particular power over male extremists promised 72 virgins if they die in battle

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/iraq/11110724/Isil-fanatics-fear-being-killed-by-a-woman-will-deprive-them-of-virgins-in-paradise.html

—-

Afghan presidential rivals to sign unity deal

Abdullah Abdullah and Ashraf Ghani prepare to announce power sharing deal at the same time as final results at the end of a messy and fractious five month election process

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/afghanistan/11111529/Afghan-presidential-rivals-to-sign-unity-deal.html

—-

US quietly releases 14 Pakistani detainees from Afghanistan jail

Pakistani human rights group announces the transfer and says it is the largest number of Pakistanis US has released so far

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/20/us-releases-14-pakistani-detainees-afghanistan

—-

NZ governing party wins elections

New Zealand’s governing National Party, led by Prime Minister John Key, wins an emphatic election victory, near-complete results show.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-29268823

—-

Matthew Miller: The American film-maker who fell foul of North Korea

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/asia/matthew-miller-the-american-filmmaker-who-fell-foul-of-north-korea-9746368.html

—-

Philippines storm displaces 200,000

Tropical storm Fung-Wong brings flooding, heavy rains and high winds to the Philippines, forcing some 200,000 people from their homes.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-29294769
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Why I’ll risk my life for Ebola patients

Cokie Van Der Velde, a water and sanitation specialist, has just flown to Liberia – she explains why she decided to go to a place with the deadly virus.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-29245149

—-

Far right hijacks image of Afghan heroine for anti-burqa campaign

Policewoman Malalai Kakar was killed by the Taliban, but now her picture is being used on social media to represent a ‘terrorist’

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/20/malalai-kakar-burqa-afghanistan-australia-britain-first

—-

In Pictures: Sierra Leone’s Ebola survivors

Survivors of the disease are often stigmatised after they return to their communities.

http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/inpictures/2014/09/pictures-sierra-leone-ebola-sur-201491992412809311.html

—-

Who are Australia’s radicalised Muslims?

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-29249462

—-

THE SAD HIDDEN PLIGHT OF CHILD GROOMS

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/09/18/the-sad-hidden-plight-of-child-grooms.html

—-

Catholic Nuns Take On Dark Money In Politics With Nationwide Bus Tour

http://thinkprogress.org/election/2014/09/18/3569186/nuns-on-a-bus-dark-money-kochs/

—-

The father of 26 preaching birth control

Rural women in Ivory Coast typically work from dawn to dusk, while men get time off to relax. But now some men are being sent back to school.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-29258844

—-

10 things we didn’t know last week

The most efficient work break is 17 minutes, and other nuggets.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/blogs-magazine-monitor-29275337

—-

Nigel Slater’s pizza recipes

Homemade dough, flecked with seeds, will fill your home with a glorious smell – especially if you top the pizzas with rich and seasonal ingredients

http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/sep/21/pizza-recipes-nigel-slater

—-

Animal photos of the week: 19 September 2014

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/earth/11105590/Animal-photos-of-the-week.html

—-

The week in pictures: 19 September 2014

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/theweekinpictures/11105627/The-week-in-pictures-19-September-2014.html

—-

Week in pictures: 13-19 September 2014

A selection of the best news photographs from around the world taken over the past week.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/in-pictures-29238356

—-

The 20 photographs of the week

The referendum in Scotland, the Californian fires, the ongoing crisis in northern Iraq and Syria – the best photography in news, culture and sport from around the world this week

http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2014/sep/20/20-photographs-observer-isis-london-fashion-wildfire-california

» Posted By Kalima On September 21, 2014 @ 1:14 am

Hello monicaangela.

So a nuclear armed Iran is not a threat in your opinion?

My point was that you don’t engage a country that meddles in an ongoing conflict like Afghanistan or supports Hezbollah in the civil war in Syria, and one that you are in ongoing negotiations with to limit their nuclear program to energy needs. Their help might later be used as a bargaining chip by them in further discussions.

I don’t think that Iran should have a nuclear weapon in an already unstable region, and we know how Israel will react if they come close to achieving that, bringing America into yet another fight because it has promised to stand with them, and with it, the loss of many innocent Iranian lives.

They might be included at some point but it’s unclear what they could offer anyway when they are already aiding the Shias in Iraq and Syria.

No country should have nuclear weapons but the only people threatening to use them are Putin, (yes he made a threat to Europe) the nut job in N. Korea, and the terrorists if they can get their hands on them. I don’t hear Israel, who have a lot to lose, threatening to use them to annihilate a whole country and its people with one.

» Posted By Kalima On September 17, 2014 @ 3:08 pm

Yes Maru is famous and has his own youtube spot and following. i’ve been watching his antics for a few years now and never tire of him. 🙂

» Posted By Kalima On September 16, 2014 @ 8:16 pm

I imagine the reluctance to involve Iran stems from the stories in these links, and the fact that the world is in shaky negotiations to persuade Iran to limit their nuclear ambitions. It’s not as simple as it sounds.

—-

Iran is a major threat for Afghanistan security: ex-spy chief

http://www.khaama.com/iran-is-a-major-threat-for-afghanistan-security-ex-spy-chief-2143

—-

What Are Iranian Special Forces Doing In Syria?

http://ibtimes.com/what-are-iranian-special-forces-doing-syria-

—-

Al-Faisal: We will not ignore Iran and Hezbollah’s interference in Syria

https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/news/middle-east/6394-al-faisal-we-will-not-ignore-iran-and-hezbollahs-interference-in-syria

—-

HOW IRAN COULD BECOME OUR SHADOW ENEMY IN THE SYRIA ISIS WAR

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/09/16/how-iran-could-become-our-shadow-enemy-in-the-syria-isis-war.html

—-

Iran sends operatives to Iraq to bolster Shiite-led government
JUNE 21, 2014 6:12AM

http://news.com.au/world/iran-sends-operatives-to-iraq-to-bolster-shiiteled-government/story-fndir2ev-1226962041743

» Posted By Kalima On September 16, 2014 @ 8:01 pm

First US strike under new IS plan

The US has carried out an air strike in support of Iraqi troops under attack by Islamic State, the military says, the first under an expanded mission.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-29214785

» Posted By Kalima On September 16, 2014 @ 1:44 am

Maybe I should buy one for my lot?

Quick story. While I was in between appointments this afternoon, the earth shook, it was strong and lasted a bit too long. After it was over and my heart had returned to it’s proper place, I started wondering about my four and how scared they must be, and couldn’t wait to go home again.

Thinking they would all be there to greet me with complaints, or at least happy to see me, I found them instead all fast asleep around the house. So much for rushing back to comfort them. 🙁

Maru is a boy of course. 😉

» Posted By Kalima On September 16, 2014 @ 1:21 am

Hello monicaangela, came back very late, sorry.

The article I read was the second one, it is quite detailed about their finances. The Guardian one, I linked to here a few months ago.

—-

ISIS Makes Up To $3 Million a Day Selling Oil, Analysts Say

http://www.syriadeeply.org/articles/2014/07/5856/isis-3-million-day-selling-oil-analysts/

—-

To Defeat the Islamic State, Follow the Money
By HOWARD J. SHATZ
September 10, 2014

http://www.politico.com/magazine/story/2014/09/to-defeat-isil-follow-the-money-110825.html#.VBfMxpIazCQ

—-

How an arrest in Iraq revealed Isis’s $2bn jihadist network

Seizure of 160 computer flash sticks revealed the inside story of Isis, the band of militants that came from nowhere with nothing to having Syrian oil fields and control of Iraq’s second city

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jun/15/iraq-isis-arrest-jihadists-wealth-power

» Posted By Kalima On September 16, 2014 @ 1:08 am

No he isn’t but I sometimes wish he were when my lot just sleep all day long. I’ve been bringing him here for a few years now and think he’s adorable.

Will answer your replies after I come back as I have to keep two appointments today. 🙁

Take care and see you later.

» Posted By Kalima On September 15, 2014 @ 3:55 pm

Hello Nirek. I will praise the country of my birth for taking the lead in renewable energy, but find it hard to do the same about Japan where the hawkish PM Abe, is pushing and pulling the strings to get the nuclear power plants up and running again. It’s one step forward and 10 steps back in my opinion, and of course after what happened in March 2011, very scary.

» Posted By Kalima On September 15, 2014 @ 12:32 am

I know that many people are tired and disappointed about voting and I can understand that. What I don’t understand is that 2010 wasn’t enough of a warning for what happens when people don’t vote. You got the TP.

If many sit out these elections, there is the chance that the crazies will win the Senate which could be even worse for them and their families, and I think the people should be made to understand what they will lose if they don’t vote. The Dems in Congress need to get off their lazy arses and include it in a strong message before November. They need to work together as a team on this for a change.

If they think it’s bad now, wait to see how much worse it can get with a Republican majority in the Senate, the President will get almost nothing done before he leaves office. Is that what people really want?

» Posted By Kalima On September 14, 2014 @ 11:24 pm

I really think it’s insane for Scotland to seek independence. Once they do they are out of the EU, and with their finances not too rosy, there will be no one willing to bail them out. I think that Alec Salmond has been talking too much to people like Rupert Murdoch who he has had several meetings with since this self destructive idea popped into his head. Who wants to visit Scotland if you need a visa and passport to get in? My sister told me a story about a woman from Yorkshire living there for 15 years who is now being harassed by young thugs screaming at her in the street to get back to England. Seriously, who would want to stay there under these circumstances? They will also lose the pound as their currency. In the latest, the “nos” were ahead anyway.

» Posted By Kalima On September 14, 2014 @ 11:10 pm

No I don’t think it’s safe to be restarting 30 to 40 year old nuclear plants in a country that has an earthquake almost every day and is only a hop, skip and a jump from the ocean. The people who live there don’t want it either, but when you are taking bribes from the nuclear industry, and they donate to your campaign, well then if you are the leader of that country, you push it as if your life depended on it.

The mosquitos carrying the Dengue fever virus, should be dying off as soon as it gets cooler. Here, that might not be until the end of October so many public parks are now closed. We have a 24 hour mosquito repellant coil burning just outside our front door, and I don’t stay outside very long. I’ll be glad when I hear the all clear.

Yes, any religion can be hijacked by extremists, and I think it’s our duty as people of faith to speak out about it to let people know that they don’t speak for the majority of us.

Like the Taliban and Al Qaida before them, ISIS wants control and uses religion as a way to recruit the young and desperate. It’s a sham. In Pakistan’s Lahore district, the Taliban were the most frequent and best paying customers in the many brothels there. They are all hypocrites.

I read the other day that they control many oil wells and refineries, and are making a large percent of their income by selling oil to Syria, Iraq and Turkey at a price cheaper than the going rate. If I find the article I will post it here soon.

» Posted By Kalima On September 14, 2014 @ 10:56 pm

Thanks, I already saw this, it was in the related stories in the link I left below. I’ve heard him speak often as I lived for a long time in England before we moved to Japan.

» Posted By Kalima On September 14, 2014 @ 10:30 pm

Thank you, monicaangela. There is no greater reward than hearing that you and others enjoy the stories I post. Always a pleasure. 🙂

Take care, have a great Sunday, and see you later.

» Posted By Kalima On September 14, 2014 @ 4:33 pm

Sorry monicaangela, the stories about Ian Paisley seem to have completely disappeared from The Telegraph. Strange. I did find this at the Beeb and hope it will do instead.

Will be back later to answer your replies as I’m having a busy morning. Thanks for letting me know about the link.

—-

Ian Paisley: ‘Big of stature and voice, his sharp tongue knew many victims’

http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-northern-ireland-29184285

» Posted By Kalima On September 14, 2014 @ 4:29 pm

Good Morning Everyone, and welcome to your Sunday.

So far it’s been a quiet and relaxing day here, and I wish the same for all of you too.

Have a good day wherever you may be. Take care, be safe, stay cool and dry.

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

Our Moment of Zen.

A pushcart and Maru 😆 (Full screen is fun)

https://youtube.com/watch?v=euCG3jbefH8
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Sunday’s Bits & Bobs
~~~~~~~~~~~~

Testimony shows confusion at Fukushima plant, chief’s anger

http://mainichi.jp/english/english/newsselect/news/20140912p2a00m0na012000c.html

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Abe says he won’t back down until all N Korea abductees accounted for

http://www.japantoday.com/category/politics/view/abe-says-he-wont-back-down-until-all-n-korea-abductees-accounted-for

—-

Number of dengue virus infections in Japan rises to 115

http://mainichi.jp/english/english/newsselect/news/20140913p2g00m0dm032000c.html

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Solar, wind power proposed as way to refill hydrogen stations

http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2014/09/13/national/solar-wind-power-proposed-as-way-to-refill-hydrogen-stations/#.VBUvOUuVsfF

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Growing restrictions make for frustrated park users

http://www.japantoday.com/category/kuchikomi/view/growing-restrictions-make-for-frustrated-park-users
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

‘Islamic State’ is a slur on our faith, say leading Muslims

Imams call on David Cameron and others to stop using phrase which they say gives credibility to a terrorist organisation

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/13/term-islamic-state-slur-faith-david-cameron

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Friends: The One Where Dave Mulls Over Scotland

In the latest episode of our political sitcom, the Prime Minister pictures a nightmarish post-independence future

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/11092487/Friends-The-One-Where-Dave-Mulls-Over-Scotland.html

—-

Scottish independence: polls show it’s too close to call

ICM survey for The Telegraph suggests Yes campaign is in the lead but a Survation poll for Better Together puts the No vote ahead

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/11094489/Scottish-independence-polls-show-its-too-close-to-call.html

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Dr Ian Paisley: ‘He began as the militant. He ended as the peace-maker.’

Tributes to Dr Ian Paisley from all sides of the political and religious divide

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/ireland/11093028/Dr-Ian-Paisley-He-began-as-the-militant.-He-ended-as-the-peace-maker..html

—-

Merkel to speak in Berlin against anti-Semitism

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-29195685

—-

Russians are trying to ‘eliminate’ our country, says Ukrainian prime minister

Arseniy Yatsenyuk said that his nation stood in the path of Moscow’s desire to reshape the global order

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/ukraine/11094351/Russians-are-trying-to-eliminate-our-country-says-Ukrainian-prime-minister.html

—-

Weekly Address: We Will Degrade and Destroy ISIL

https://youtube.com/watch?v=S1RpbOou4fU

—-

Why ISIS Is Not, In Fact, Islamic

http://thinkprogress.org/world/2014/09/11/3566181/why-isis-is-in-fact-not-islamic/

—-

Michael Brown shooting: Video shows witness saying Ferguson teen had his hands up when police shot him

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/michael-brown-shooting-video-shows-witness-saying-ferguson-teen-had-his-hands-up-when-police-shot-him-9731314.html

—-

He’s either off his meds or off his rocker.
————

Steve King’s Plan To Defeat ISIS: Spy On Muslim Americans In Mosques

http://thinkprogress.org/home/2014/09/13/3567190/muslim-americans-respond-to-steve-kings-suggestion-that-mosques-should-be-spied-on-its-reprehensible/

—-

Plum Line

Why Dem voters may not show up this fall

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/plum-line/wp/2014/09/11/why-dem-voters-may-not-show-up-this-fall/

—-

Syria crisis: support for Assad starting to fade as allies become disillusioned by setbacks

Iran is rethinking its unconditional backing for Bashar al-Assad and there is growing discontent over humiliating defeats by Isil

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/11094256/Syria-crisis-support-for-Assad-starting-to-fade-as-allies-become-disillusioned-by-setbacks.html

—-

David Haines: Barack Obama says the US stands shoulder to shoulder with Britain

American president condemns killing of British aid worker and promises to work towards bring perpetrators to justice

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/syria/11095019/David-Haines-Barack-Obama-says-the-US-stands-shoulder-to-shoulder-with-Britain.html

—-

The evil mind games of Islamic State

The tactics they use to achieve a Middle East free of the West – with nothing but its own brand of Sunni Islam

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/middleeast/11094985/The-evil-mind-games-of-Islamic-State.html

—-

Israeli intelligence veterans refuse to serve in Palestinian territories

Innocent people under military rule exposed to surveillance by Israel, say 43 ex-members of Unit 8200, including reservists

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/12/israeli-intelligence-reservists-refuse-serve-palestinian-territories

—-

Qatar asks senior Muslim Brotherhood leaders to leave country

Seven Egyptians who sought refuge in Gulf state after overthrow of Mohamed Morsi in 2013 have agreed to go elsewhere

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/13/qatar-senior-muslim-brotherhood-leaders-leave-country-morsi

—-

US opposes Iran role in IS fight

US Secretary of State John Kerry says it would be inappropriate for Iran to join a coalition seeking to fight Islamic State (IS) militants.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-29172524

—-

Islamic State: Iraqi Government’s illegal barrel bombing of civilian areas ‘to be stopped’

http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/middle-east/islamic-state-iraqi-governments-illegal-barrel-bombing-of-civilian-areas-to-be-stopped-9731317.html

—-

How big of a threat is the Islamic State?

Agencies remain uncertain about the danger that the militant group poses to the United States..

http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/national-security/us-intelligence-agencies-remain-uncertain-about-danger-posed-by-islamic-state/2014/09/13/23245e84-3aa6-11e4-bdfb-de4104544a37_story.html?wpmk=MK0000200

—-

Shia group accused of revenge attacks in Iraq

The Badr brigade, an Iran-backed militia, said to have broken pact to fight IS alongside Sunni and Peshmerga groups.

http://www.aljazeera.com/video/middleeast/2014/09/shia-group-accused-revenge-attacks-iraq-201491381254328982.html

—-

Al-Qaeda India branch’s first attack ends in dismal failure as jihadists ‘raid wrong ship’

The group established only last week attempted to storm a ship in the Karachi port on the anniversary of 9/11, but reports suggest the mission ended in disaster

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/pakistan/11092387/Al-Qaeda-India-branchs-first-attack-ends-in-dismal-failure-as-jihadists-raid-wrong-ship.html

—-

Pakistani Court sends 100 activists to jail

Pakistani police arrest anti-government protesters following weeklong sit-ins and tense confrontations.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2014/09/pakistani-court-sends-100-activists-jail-201491315950198907.html

—-

Taliban advance into Sangin threatens British military gains in Helmand

Summer offensive overruns checkpoints as Afghan security forces struggle to contain insurgency

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/13/taliban-advance-sangin-helmand-afghanistan

—-

Tony Abbott: Australia to send military force to fight Isis ‘death cult’

Some 600 personnel, including special forces troops, and eight F/A-18F Super Hornet jets will make up military contribution to international coalition

http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/sep/14/tony-abbott-australia-military-force-fight-isis-death-cult

—-

N Korea jails US man for six years

An American man in North Korea is sentenced to six years of hard labour for “hostile” acts against Pyongyang, state media say.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-29196644

—-

Scores rescued after Philippines ferry sinks

http://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-29196687
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Suspended between life and death

Since 2005, it’s been illegal in Israel to turn off ventilators when a person is dying or has no hope of recovery. The result – wards full of patients in limbo between death and life.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-29132303

—-

The memory of hell among the sunflowers

When Malaysia Airlines flight MH17 crashed in Ukraine, rescue workers, local residents and journalists rushed to the site – what they saw had a deep and lasting impact.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-29148395

—-

Laos: The legacy

A group of women risk life and limb to clear Laos of cluster bombs and make their country safe for future generations.

http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/101east/2014/09/laos-legacy-20149875513134392.html

—-

The New World

Retracing Marco Polo’s journey through the heartland of China – from mighty Beijing to the City of Heaven.

http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/marco-polo/2014/08/new-world-201482421555194627.html

—-

My sex tapes are everywhere. But I just can’t bear to watch…

My real-life shagging has not been self-conscious. So I can cling to the hope that I make different faces than I do while faking on Peep Show

http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/sep/14/sex-tapes-selfies-peep-show

—-

10 things we didn’t know last week

http://www.bbc.com/news/blogs-magazine-monitor-29174347

—-

Germany leads with wind power

http://www.dw.de/germany-leads-with-wind-power/a-2214648

—-

Nigel Slater’s autumn recipes

It’s the season to get cosy with comfort food, so ease yourself into autumn with these five warming recipes

http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2014/sep/14/nigel-slater-autumn-recipes-duck-ribs-pork

—-

Animal photos of the week: 12 September 2014

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/earth/11092580/Animal-photos-of-the-week.html

—-

The week in pictures: 12 September 2014

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/picturegalleries/theweekinpictures/11092491/The-week-in-pictures-12-September-2014.html

—-

Week in pictures: 6-12 September 2014

http://www.bbc.com/news/in-pictures-29175153

—-

The 20 photographs of the week

The Oscar Pistorius verdict, the ongoing crisis in Ukraine, the referendum in Scotland – the best photography in news, culture and sport from around the world this week

http://www.theguardian.com/artanddesign/gallery/2014/sep/13/photography-20-pictures-of-the-week

» Posted By Kalima On September 14, 2014 @ 1:34 am

Hello monicaangela. I was addressing the video you posted and not you personally when I talked about respecting the President. From the moment the video started with the introduction about the film director’s anger about naming James Foley in his his speech, the rest of the video was window dressing, and many watching would take the reference to the government as meaning Obama. I did, and I’m sure that I wasn’t the only one. The power of suggestion is how I saw it.

I know that many in your government are corrupt and enable bad legislation to support the already rich while ignoring what ails the country for profit. However, that has never been the President’s agenda or policy.

Like you, I believe that the countries most at risk from ISIS need to step up to the plate to do what they can to diminish this threat, and many Arab countries who always talk the talk but never walk the walk need to commit fully to this. They rarely do, so we will have to wait, and no country in Europe will send in their troops, that’s a given.

Yesterday I read that Turkey is softening it’s stance, and Egypt is willing to commit. Have a few stories I will post for the morning so I hope to see you then.

Take care.

» Posted By Kalima On September 13, 2014 @ 7:50 pm

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