MORE OF THE REAL NEWS

The Chocolate You Eat is Likely Made by Enslaved Children
Andrew Korfhage, AlterNet
On Halloween much of the chocolate Americans will hand out to trick-or-treaters will be tainted by the labor of enslaved children.
http://www.alternet.org/story/148532/modern_day_slavery%3A_the_chocolate_you%27re_eating_was_likely_made_by_enslaved_children

Butchery Classes and Parties: How Much do You Want to Know About How Your Meat Gets to Your Plate?
Anneli Rufus, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/148586/butchery_classes_and_parties%3A_how_much_do_you_want_to_know_about_how_your_meat_gets_to_your_plate

Fascist America: Is This Election the Next Turn?
Sara Robinson, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/148588/fascist_america%3A_is_this_election_the_next_turn_

Glenn Greenwald: The Real Danger from NPR's Firing of Juan Williams
http://act.commondreams.org/go/2839?akid=236.19616.DLXHe8&t=30

Laura Flanders: Who Profits from Silly Campaign Season?
http://act.commondreams.org/go/2840?akid=236.19616.DLXHe8&t=32

Chuck Kelly: Estate Taxes Aren't a Levy on the Dead
http://act.commondreams.org/go/2842?akid=236.19616.DLXHe8&t=36

TGTSNBN
CosPlay
Event
[October 16th]

CosPlay held on a windy, cool Saturday at Phillipe Manor Station, Sleepy Hallow Cemetery and Lyndhurst Manor in Westchester County

[<>

Some members of "New York Friends
of Tolkien" attend the October 7th dinner
party in Manhattan, and the honored guests
of the evening were Doug Adams and
Howard Shore. The latter is composer
of the LOTR music for the movie trilogy.

[L to R - Dennis, Duchess, Timdalf, Carole & Mary]

[L to R - Doug Adams and Howard Shore
admire a lovely, handmade clock with
Timdalf looking on. The clock was one of
many gifties to Mr Shore celebrating his
birthday.]

AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT – REAL NEWS

Food in Uncertain Times: How to Grow and Store the Five Crops You Need to Survive
Makenna Goodman, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/148562/food_in_uncertain_times%3A_how_to_grow_and_store_the_5_crops_you_need_to_survive

Obama Prepares to Triangulate Himself
Glen Ford / Black Agenda Report
http://blackagendareport.com/?q=print/content/obama-prepares-triangulate-himself

The Perfect storm That Threatens American Democracy
Robert Reich’s Blog
The top one-tenth of one percent of Americans now earn as much as the bottom 120 million of us.
http://www.alternet.org/story/148558/the_perfect_storm_that_threatens_american_democracy

PBS Just as Corporate, White, Male and Republican as Commercial TV
Lauren Kelley, AlterNet
http://blogs.alternet.org/speakeasy/2010/10/20/pbs-just-as-corporate-white-male-and-republican-as-commercial-tv/

Missing Bill Moyers: Exposé Reveals a Diminished PBS
http://act.commondreams.org/go/2762?akid=232.19616.ex4bH3&t=2

US Funds in Central Asia Feed War, Not Democracy
http://act.commondreams.org/go/2763?akid=232.19616.ex4bH3&t=4

Activists 'Agree': Big Oil Should Clean Up Their Messes
http://act.commondreams.org/go/2764?akid=232.19616.ex4bH3&t=6

Amy Goodman When Banks Are the Robbers
http://act.commondreams.org/go/2795?akid=233.19616.NE_dCr&t=22

Danny Schechter Can There Be a Rescue of US Workers Facing Foreclosure and Unemployment?
http://act.commondreams.org/go/2752?akid=231.19616.QqiqVP&t=16

Chris Hedges Heroes for the Beaten, Foreclosed on, Imprisoned Masses
http://act.commondreams.org/go/2755?akid=231.19616.QqiqVP&t=22

Leaker of Pentagon Papers Stresses Importance of Telling the Truth to Student Audience
http://act.commondreams.org/go/2809?akid=235.19616.aaF8E9&t=10

Robert Naiman Britain's Budget Cuts - Will the Bell Toll for Us?
http://act.commondreams.org/go/2818?akid=235.19616.aaF8E9&t=28

Nick Turse Digging in for the Long Haul in Afghanistan
http://act.commondreams.org/go/2819?akid=235.19616.aaF8E9&t=30

HANGING OUT IN NYC ON OCTOBER 9TH





Views of the Dakota on
Central Park West were
John Lennon lived before
being murdered in 1981.


Visited Strawberry Fields
in Center Park on October
9th, which would of marked
Lennon's 70th birthday.
100s gathered to celebrate,
and sing Beatle songs.



Later that evening, I dined
with other LOTR and
Tolkien fan/friends before
heading to RCMH to see
"The Two Towers"
performed on stage.

ATTENDED THE 26TH ANNUAL FT TRYON PARK
MEDIEVAL FESTIVAL ON OCTOBER 3RD

Deanna and Jenna
share the spotlight
with Timdalf

Timdalf & Duchess

ATTENDED THE "ONE NATION WORKING
TOGETHER" MARCH AND RALLY IN
WASHINGTON DC ON A
LOVELY, SUNNY DAY ON
OCTOBER 2ND WITH
"BROOKLYN FOR PEACE"

PERSONAL NEWS #188

Monday, Sept 20th, I volunteered at the “World Can’t Wait” main headquarters on West 27th Street location. For now it is mostly handling phone calls, organizing, and computer database on Monday or Thursday evenings after work. I’ll mostly be working with, and reporting to, Sharon and Bob.

Tuesday, Sept 21st, I had an appt with my foot doctor for therapy and progress report.

Friday, Sept 24th, I volunteered with City Harvest at the Union Square farmers market.

Sunday, Sept 26th, I joined the YMCA in my neighborhood, as its gym facilities are co-ed. They have terrific facilities for cardio, free weights, classes, machines, sauna, plus a swimming pool, and all for the wonderful monthly fee of $52.

Monday, Sept 27th, I volunteered at the WCW national office and assisted with making phone calls for donations. Afterwards I went to the Y for an intense 35 minute cardio workout.

Tuesday, Sept 28th, I attended a panel discussion at Brooklyn Law School on “US Crimes against International Law”. WCW and Brooklyn for Peace were two of the sponsors.

Wednesday afternoon, Sept 29th, I spoke with my dear cousin Edmund, whom I hadn’t seen or spoken too in 10+ years. Wonderful conversation! He lives in Maine with his current wife and they run a successful wedding cake business called “Sticky Fingers”. Check it out at www.stickyfingerscakes.com

Thursday, Sept 30th, I attended a Green Party event after work. I was invited to this event by Chris Archer, who is a member of NYDoP and the Green Party. Afterwards, I got home in time to chair the NYDoP CCR Team conference call at 8:30pm.

PERSONAL NEWS #187

Wednesday, Sept 1st, I joined Jade and Marianne at the Community Board Manhattan #10 monthly meeting up on West 125th Street. I brought Dept of Peace and Resolution 14 materials to hand out, and Marianne was our speaker. Large turnout at the CB M#10 meeting and many wanted to “speak”, Marianne’s 3-minute segment got shot down to 2-minutes. At this meeting we learned that original Resolution 627 co-sponsor Thomas White Jr passed away in August. This explains why he hasn’t become a co-sponsor of Resolution 14. Marianne and I didn’t stay for the whole meeting, but Jade did as she lives in the CB M#10 district. On my out I called Kevin to discuss the developments of the meeting, etc.

Thursday, Sept 2nd, I attended TGTSNBN meetup at Kennedy’s on West 57th Street. Main topic of discussion was the upcoming Cosplay set for October 16th. Great evening, lots of fun, and good to catch up with many friends.

From Sept 3rd to 6th I visited the family in upstate NY for the holiday weekend. Felt good to get away for a few days away from the craziness of work. I caught up on reading, drawing, painting, knitting, laptop stuff, yard work, apple picking, cable TV, shopping, hair salon, etc.

Tuesday evening, Sept 7th, I had dinner with Nancie and Sam at Siggy’s in Brooklyn Heights. Nancie was helping her son move into his new apartment in Brooklyn. It was lovely seeing them and catching up on news.

Wednesday, Sept 8th, I had lunch with Stephanie and we talked about my doing some volunteer work at the “World Can’t Wait” office on West 27th Street.

Thursday, Sept 9th, I chaired the NYdoPeace CCR committee conference call regarding Resolution 14.

Friday – Sunday, Sept 10-12 – I headed down to my beloved Cape May for 5 to 6 days. We had great weather the whole time, except for Sept 12th, which was overcast, cool and rainy. Started out at the Chalfonte hotel where I was registered for Marge Chavooshain’s watercolor workshop. I’d never taken a workshop before and felt this would assist me with drawing and especially painting. In the past, I’d seen Marge conducting her workshops at the Chalfonte. Last year I spoke with Marge, gave her my contact info and the rest is history.

Regarding the Chalfonte hotel … the room I occupied was sparsely furnished, bathroom across the hall, no air conditioning, thin walls and no central heating. I have to admit the beds are very comfy, plus the staff is nice, friendly and helpful. Truth be told, I so prefer staying at the Macomber. I only stayed two nights at the Chalfonte and that was enough for me. Several kids [under age 10] running around yelling and screaming on the Friday night, and with no parental supervision. Crazy! Then Saturday night having to deal with the couple next door having loud sex until 11:30pm. One heard everything, which was punctuated with the headboard of their bed banging on the wall.

Enough of that, back to the workshop, which was wonderful. Marge is delightful, charming and one helluva talented lady in her 80s. She’s been teaching watercolor and drawing for 50+ years and imparts such enthusiasm in her students. There were about 11 to 12 of us taking the workshop. Some had been taking her workshops for many years. Friday evening was the registration, orientation and the hotel provided wine with assorted nibblers. Mostly hung out with Leslie, who is also my age, plus got into diverse conversation with two gents in their mid to late 60s [ie: Eric & Lin]. I found myself attracted to the latter; who was good looking, interesting, but very much married. What a shame, he had such a twinkle in his eyes and a nice smile. After the orientation, I changed into sporty togs and did a brisk power walk up at the promenade before calling it an evening.

Next day we meet on the veranda at 9:30am, and Marge plotted our course of action for the day. We car pooled to Sunset Beach with our “art things” for a painting session on the beach. [Note: I came prepared with hat, sunscreen and long sleeved shirt to keep the bright sun from burning me.] Marge would give a lecture and then a detailed demo on the scene we were to paint. Then it was our turn to paint, and while we painted Marge would walk around to observe our efforts, give advice or answer questions. I really liked her method of teaching. We had a brief lunch break and back to more painting. Between 2pm and 2:30pm we packed up and drove to an area near the Cape May lighthouse to paint a different scene. Again Marge would lecture, and then a detailed demo, and then we’d go paint. Before we packed up around 4pm she’d look over everyone’s efforts of the day and impart her thoughts, plus give suggestions. On my second painting, Marge said she liked it and felt it was a “clean painting”. That evening Marge, Leslie, Carol, Amanda and I headed out for dinner over to A Ca Mia, which is part of the Washington Street Mall. Good meal, but the service was so-so.

Next day we met up again in the shelter of the veranda, as it was gloomy and raining. This didn’t discourage Marge, and I don’t think much does. She picked a spot on the veranda, gave a lecture on drawing architecture, and then the demo followed. As the day progressed the rain stopped, so some ventured off the veranda to paint other “scenes”. I stayed on the veranda and attempted my first architecture piece. It didn’t turn out well and I was very disappointed. During the “review” segment, Marge didn’t “down” my piece, but admired my courage in taking on a tough piece, then made suggestions. During the reviews I noticed four from our group whose pieces were always outstanding. Their styles were different, unique and stunning. I hope to one day be as good as those four.

Throughout the 2 ½ days I enjoyed many diverse conversations with everyone in our group, but especially with Lin. His friend Eric was such fun, and always made everyone laugh. Yes, I know, Lin’s married, but we both enjoyed each other’s company and decided to meet Sunday evening for drinks at Jackson Mountain Café. It was strictly platonic and he behaved like a gent. I so enjoyed those two hours, over drinks with Lin, and interesting conversation. It was like the icing on the cake, and I’ll never see him again, but during those 2 ½ days he made me feel special in many “little” ways.

I checked out of the Chalfonte on Sunday around 5pm and walked a short distance down the street to the Macomber for the remainder of my stay in Cape May. I always stay in the same room, which I love, and it’s so comfy with a nice view of the beach.

Monday – Wednesday, Sept 13-15, I continued my vacation in Cape May, NJ and also hung out with my friend Dennis. [I’ve known Dennis, via the NY Tolkien Society, since 2006 and he’s a very nice chap, plus he’s married with children.] This is the first time, since 1998, that I’ve hung out with a friend in Cape May. Over the course of three days we rented a touring bike, visited the shops in the Washington Street Mall and elsewhere, dined at some nice places [ie: Mad Batter & Lobster House], watched two stunning sunsets, strolled the streets taking pix, enjoyed a trolley/estate tour, went on a dolphin watch boat ride out in the ocean, or just sat around leisurely drinking smoothies and watching humanity stroll by. The weather, during those three days, was sunny and not a cloud in the sky. Absolutely perfect! I did my power walks on the promenade, visited with my friend Joe at the bike rental place and towards the end realized I was getting abit ill with a mild bronchial infection. But I didn’t let that stop me from enjoying myself to the fullest. I pushed myself to the limit, and by the time we were driving back to NYC late Wednesday afternoon, I was not feeling well. Overall, this was one of my more enjoyable visits to Cape May. I always feel sad when leaving Cape May … I so love this charming, seaside resort town.

Thursday – Sunday, Sept 16-19, I spent rest of my vacation at home working on recovering from allergies and a bronchial infection I must have gotten while in Cape May. Did several errands when I felt well enough; but mostly stayed indoors working on my vacation pix, checking emails, Facebook, surfing the net, phone calls, chores around the apt, laundry, etc, etc.

AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT – THE NEWS!

The Real Democratic Whiners
David Sirota, Oregon Live
http://www.oregonlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2010/10/the_real_democratic_whiners.html

The Two Americas
Nicole Colson, Socialist Worker
http://socialistworker.org/2010/10/01/the-two-americas

Telling the Truth vs the Election Game
Debra Sweet, World Can't Wait
http://debra.worldcantwait.net/2010/10/telling-the-truth-vs-the-election-game/

Barack Obama Accused of Exaggerating Terror Threat for Political Gain
Simon Tisdall & Richard Norton-Taylor
http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2010/oct/07/barack-obama-terror-threat-claims/print

Progressive Dissent Is in the FBI’s Crosshairs
Lydia Howell, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/148428/progressive_dissent_is_in_the_fbi%27s_crosshairs

Corporate Hijacking of Our Elections is Well Under Way, with Foreign Companies Chipping in to Destroy Our Democracy
Joshua Holland, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/148427/corporate_hijacking_of_our_elections_is_well_under_way%2C_with_foreign_companies_chipping_in_to_destroy_our_democracy

Inside Job - Documentary about the cause and effects of the 2008 recession. At the Angelika and Lincoln Plaza

Director Charles Ferguson, working from a deep reservoir of anger at how the Washington/Wall Street nexus of greed and corruption brought on the current global recession, comes at his gripping movie like Michael Moore without shtick. Ferguson doesn't aim to entertain; he wants answers, and talks to many of the enabling weasels — pasty-faced economists in the pocket of big corporations, two-faced former members of the Federal Reserve, lobbyists who are bald-faced liars — and confronts them with facts before looking at how their actions have turned average Americans' lives into nightmares. A gripping tour through our country's broken system of ethics.

Read more: http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/movies/2010/10/08/2010-10-08_short_reviews_inside_job_tamara_dreweas_good_as_dead_nowhere_boy.html#ixzz11n3Pbcy6

Duchess Note: Many thanks to Judith in sharing many of these terrific, thought-provoking articles. Please, feel free in sharing with others.

WONDERFUL AND INSPIRING SPEECH BY HARRY BELAFONTE AT THE "ONE NATION WORKING TOGETHER" RALLY ON OCTOBER 2ND IN WASHINGTON DC

In 1963, Martin Luther King, Jr. stood on the steps of this memorial and declared that this nation should come together and embrace its greater ideals. He said that we should rally together and overcome injustice and racism, and that all citizens should not only have the right to vote, but that we should exercise that right and make America whole.

That is part of why we are today. But we’re also here to tend other grievances. Martin Luther King, Jr., in his “I Have a Dream” speech forty-seven years ago, said that America would soon come to realize that the war that we were in at that time that this nation waged in Vietnam was not only unconscionable, but unwinnable. Fifty-eight thousand Americans died in that cruel adventure, and over two million Vietnamese and Cambodians perished. Now today, almost a half-a-century later, as we gather at this place where Dr. King prayed for the soul of this great nation, tens of thousands of citizens from all walks of life have come here today to rekindle his dream and once again hope that all America will soon come to the realization that the wars that we wage today in far away lands are immoral, unconscionable and unwinnable.

The Central Intelligence Agency, in its official report, tells us that the enemy we pursue in Afghanistan and in Pakistan, the al-Qaeda, they number less than fifty—I say fifty—people. Do we really think that sending 100,000 young American men and women to kill innocent civilians, woman and children, and antagonizing the tens of millions of people in the whole region somehow makes us secure? Does this make any sense?

The President’s decision to escalate the war in that region alone costs the nation $33 billion. That sum of money could not only create 600,000 jobs here in America, but would even leave us a few billion to start rebuilding our schools, our roads, our hospitals and affordable housing. It could also help to rebuild the lives of the thousands of our returning wounded veterans.

Dr. King loved this nation. He saw, as all of us here today see, that this great nation should not be allowed to perish. Martin’s vision was also the vision of Abraham Lincoln, who understood the evil of slavery and, in abolishing that evil, saved America. Although slavery may have been abolished, the crippling poison of racism still persists, and the struggle still continues. We have the largest prison population in the world. And as we industrialize these prison systems, we rob hundreds of thousands of workers of the jobs that they need and the wages that are rightfully theirs.

The plight of women bear no better. Their oppression refuses to yield, as rape and domestic violence and sex slaves and teenage pregnancy abounds.

But perhaps the greatest threat of all is the undermining of our Constitution and the systematic attack against the inalienable rights of the citizens of this nation, rights that are guaranteed by our Constitution. At the vanguard of this insidious attack is the tea party. This band of misguided citizens is moving perilously close to achieving villainous ends.

This gathering here today is America’s wake-up call. The giant called democracy is at last stirring again. Citizens are coming together to say freedom does not sleep. It may have been fueled and lulled for the moment into a lethargy, but it’s fully awake now. And we the people are its engine. We must awaken the apathetic, the cynical, the many angry doubters, who see their future as the perpetual hopelessness, and show them that our greatest weapon is the vote. And it is the answer to much that nags in us.

On November 2nd, in the millions, we must overburden our voting booths by voting against those who would see the nation become a totalitarian state. Americans know that Dr. King’s dream is not dead. Let us vote on November 2nd for jobs, for jobs, for jobs, for peace, for justice, for human rights, for our children and the future of America. And let us put an end to war. Peace is necessary. For justice, it is necessary. For hope, it is necessary, for our future. I love you all, and God bless America.

“Crimes are Crimes” – Message from World Can’t Wait and Mark Ruffalo

http://www.worldcantwait.net/index.php/features-mainmenu-220/take-action/6476-welcome-rolling-stone-readers

Actor Mark Ruffalo wrote to us today on why he signed Crimes Are Crimes and donated towards publishing it:

"These wars are unjust and the way they are being waged is unlawful. We are not winning hearts and minds. Americans are angry. Every day we see affronts to our laws by corporations and politicians, crimes that go unpunished. For the poor and powerless the law is cruel and unfair. That is the basis of our anger. We sense our country falling into chaos. That is because law does not seem to carry weight for the privileged and the powerful. Help us put an end to these hypocritical assaults on our constitution. Help us to restore integrity in the purpose of democracy."

You can take inspiration from his example and join us to make a big splash in The New York Times next week, in the midst of all commemorations and debate surrounding the anniversary of the start of the escalating war in Afghanistan.

As of 6pm Central on Sept 28th we're at $16,735 of the $30,000 needed towards placing this ad in The Times next week. Our goal is to place it during the same week that the war started - now the longest war in US history. People are donating in amounts from $5 to $1000 via credit card and check. This is very good - but we are not there yet.

You are needed! Please donate, call friends and contacts of World Can't Wait, email family members, stop strangers on the street, and let people know about this opportunity to break the silence over the war in Afghanistan. The funds are needed this week.

It has been 3 years now that an anti-war statement has appeared in The Times! Isn't it about time??

[Duchess Note: Join me and others in making a donation. Help WCW get this important ad into the NY Times. Please share this posting with family and friends. It's important to be informed and educated about the crimes committed in our name by our government and military.]

WATERCOLOR WORKSHOP
Sept 10th - 12th
Cape May, NJ

[Two watercolors I worked

on while participating in

the workshop. Need to

finish them up abit.]

Saying "No" to Corporate Control of Elections
Kevin Zeese, Executive Director, Prosperity Agenda
www.prosperityagenda.us

This is the first election after the Citizens United decision which gave corporations complete freedom to spend as much money as they want to influence the outcome of elections.

Citizens beware. Citizens get active. Our fragile democracy is at grave risk.

We've seen in Obama's time and office (and before) how corporations dominate Washington, DC. The health care "reform" turned out to be no reform at all, merely a re-enforcement of the insurance company dominated health care industry. And we saw how finance reform had to get the approval of Wall Street and the Federal Reserve before moving forward. Corporate welfare to the weapons industry, coal, nuclear and oil have continued or even grown under Obama. Now, we are seeing that is not enough for the oligarchs who control concentrated corporate power. They want more and are using massive spending on elections to get it.

A coalition of organizations has come together to expose organizations spending hundreds of billions in secret, unlimited donations that avoid campaign finance laws on the mid-term elections.

The most aggressive post-Citizens United elections operator is Karl Rove's American Crossroads working with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber's Chief Counsel, Steven Law, who is also a former chief of staff to Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell, was named CEO of American Crossroads. These groups take secret donations, sometimes create front groups to put out their views and are doing the work that political parties normally do - from advertising and data base management to getting out the vote - but without the restrictions on the size of donations or the need for transparency.

I wrote about how corporate power was creating deceptive elections on August 25, and now TIME Magazine is writing much the same story warning that several hundred billion will be spent by corporations and their executives in this election. In addition to mass advertising in at least six states they report that American Crossroads will be spending $10 million national get-out-the-vote campaign that will include 40 million pieces of political mail and 20 million phone calls to voters in key states. Essentially, Republican Party electoral operations have moved from the Republican Party to American Crossroads. Some have described this as a coup of Michael Steele's Republican Party.

As a result, my organization, Prosperity Agenda, has joined, American Crossroads Watch, a sister group to Stop The Chamber. I serve as the spokesperson for both coalitions. We need your help in making this watchdog campaign effective. Please monitor your local media for actions being taken by American Crossroads and the Chamber of Commerce during these elections. If you see a suspicious new group - usually labeled "Citizens for . . ." or "Citizens against . . ." - that does not disclose who their donors are, you have probably found one of their front groups. Let us know about it. Write me at KBZeese@gmail.com so we can look into it and report it. Part of our job is to let voters know how corporations are trying to deceptively influence Americans - usually to vote against the voters own interests.

Our watchdog campaign has put out rewards of $100,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of Karl Rove and Tom Donohue, the CEO of the Chamber of Commerce. On August 4, 2010, we received a letter from a purported Chamber of Commerce insider who compares Tom Donohue to Jack Abramoff, Michael Scanlon and Bernie Maddoff, alleges fraud, campaign finance violations and financial impropriety. In a letter on behalf of our coalition I urged the FBI and DOJ to conduct an investigation of Tom Donohue and the Chamber based on this letter.

We have also requested the Department of Justice investigate the "shadow RNC", American Crossroads. In a letter on behalf of the coalition I suggest formation of a campaign finance task force that investigates these groups, sets up a tip line to encourage information on violations of law, requires preservation of records and monitors their activities. We've also urged the Federal Elections Commission to find that these groups are doing the work of a political party and issue an opinion that applies campaign finance limits to their actions.

You can assist our efforts by joining us in writing the Department of Justice urging a criminal investigation. In addition, please write your member of Congress and urge that they push the Department of Justice to investigate American Crossroads.

This is the first election after the Citizens United decision allowing unfettered corporate spending on campaigns. Citizens who want people to control government and not corporations need to be organized in challenging the abuses of corporate funding of elections. Please work with us to put a spotlight on those abuses so voters know they are being manipulated and in getting the government to act to restrict corporate domination of elections.

Thank you for your support.

PERSONAL NEWS #186

Sunday, August 1st, I visited Eileen for two hours at Mt Sinai hospital. We talked about a number of topics and I had to wear a surgical mask, as Eileen was susceptible to infection. Afterwards strolled down Madison Avenue, picked up a snack before heading into Central Park near southern part of the Reservoir to sketch and read.

Tuesday, August 3rd, I participated in the terrific and always inspiring monthly Peace Alliance conference call, which was hosted by Matthew Albrecht and Lynn McMullen. To learn more about this wonderful organization, go to http://www.thepeacealliance.org/

On evening of August 5th, I attended TGTSNBN monthly meetup, which was held at a Chinese restaurant on eastside of midtown Manhattan. I wore some of my Hufflepuff attire for the occasion, and purchased two new wands from Pam and Liz. We played Harry Potter themed MadLibs, and it was a lot of fun. My only gripe about the evening was the terrible air conditioning in the restaurant, as it was warm and humid outdoors.

Friday evening, August 6th, after work I picked up some “health items” from Duane Reade for Eileen before heading up to Mt Sinai hospital to visit her.

Saturday, August 7th, I head out to New Jersey for Dawn’s baby shower. I met up with some funky friends of Dawn’s in southern Park Slope area. We rode out and back in their car, and the ride was one hour each way. Also, we were suppose to leave at 11am, and didn’t leave until 12:15pm due to waiting for another friend. Once at the baby shower it was all good and very enjoyable. Dawn and I are Vegans; so much of the food and dessert [not all] at the restaurant was geared towards vegans. My present to Dawn was a baby blanket I crocheted [photo below], along with a soft pretty shawl and a little stuffed toy. Dawn received lots of gifts for the baby; mostly clothing, toys and books. All the guests received a nice gift of a candle and organic planter. Afterwards, some of us were invited back to Bill and Dawn’s home for drinks, vegan goodies and lots of socializing. It was my first time visiting their charming home and meeting JJ their lovable dog. During her down time, Dawn keeps busy and active with her flower and veggie garden in their backyard. Overall, it was a very good day.

On Sunday, August 8th, I headed up to CT to visit my good friend Katherine. I met her at the South Norwalk train station, and after we parked her car near the event, we attended the annual SoNo Fest. We’ve been attending this annual festival for years. It’s tradition for us, just like going to Red Lobster on her birthday or attending the Pound Ridge Art & Craft Show in October. Since it was another warm, sunny day I purchased fresh fruit smoothies for us to sip on and keep us re-freshed. While sitting in a shaded area and listening to a local musician play beautiful tunes on his acoustic guitar, Kathy and I caught up on personal and family news. After the SoNo Fest we drove to Norwalk and had a tasty late lunch at an Indian restaurant, and then some shopping at B&N before I had to jump back on the train to NYC. Overall it was a good day and always a pleasure seeing my oldest, dearest friend.

On Thursday, August 12th, after a much needed pedicure, I chaired the NYdoPeace CCR Committee conference call. The topic was regarding the upcoming “creative card” campaign geared towards NY City Council and Resolution 14. To learn more about NYdoPeace, go to http://www.nyc-dop.com/

Early Friday evening, August 13th, I joined Margaret at the Metropolitan Museum of Art to check out some exhibits [ie: French Art Nouveau & Modern Art] and then “Big Bamboo” creation up on the roof garden. The views from the roof garden are awesome, and even more so at sunset. Afterwards we strolled over to Madison Avenue to have a late dinner at a diner called Nectar and catch up on news.

On Saturday, August 14th, I visited my friend Sheila in New Jersey and we spent the afternoon in Princeton. Jumped on the 9am bus from Port Authority and Sheila picked me up at the Clearbrook stop around 10am. At Sheila’s charming condo we had a tasty lite brunch, caught up on news, and freshened up before the drive to Princeton. The weather was warm, but not that humid, with some clouds. We love walking around Princeton’s lovely campus and the town. [That is Blair Hall in the photo below.] Sheila and I did some shopping at “Pins & Needles”, and also a bead shop, followed by enjoying refreshing fruit smoothies. Oh yeah, I love the fresh fruit smoothies. I helped out with the driving on the way back, and we made a pitstop at a Stop & Shop to get salad bar goodies for our dinner. Before dinner I assisted Sheila with her new knitting project. She can knit, but always has trouble casting on. I also started my next knitting project where I’ll do sample “knit patterns”. After dinner we sat out on her deck drinking tea and chatting until I had to leave to catch the 7:40pm bus back to NYC.

On Sunday, August 15th, I met up with Mary near Penn Station at 10am, and our friend Dennis picked us up for the drive to Bethlehem, PA for the annual MusikFest. Took us roughly 1 ½ hours driving west through NJ and across the PA state line. Along the way we saw a sign for the Crayola attractions and factory. We all agreed that was another day trip for our “to do list”. Unfortunately, the weather was overcast, cool and with spots of rain throughout the day. This weather did not dampen the spirits of those who attended the MusikFest, including us. While Dennis drove us through Bethlehem looking for parking, Mary and I were gaping at all the lovely Victorian homes and buildings in this charming town. Wow! We decided to add “walking & carriage ride tour” to our “to do list” for another day trip. Oh yeah, we are definitely serious about this. Found parking, brought hats/jackets/umbrella’s, purchased our “food & drink” tickets and then got into the whole MusikFest atmosphere. From 12pm to 8:30pm Dennis, Mary and I checked out many diverse musical acts, arts & crafts, ate some good food and dodged rain drops. At one point we took a “free walking tour” of an old country inn, now a museum on Main Street, which had been around at least 300 years. Around 8:30pm we headed back to the car for the drive back to NYC. Oh my gosh, did we ever hit traffic at the Holland Tunnel. Mon dieu! Dennis and Mary dropped me off at my humble abode around 11:30pm and I was in bed by midnight. Another fun, terrific weekend is at an end.

Tuesday, August 17th, I joined other members of NYdoPeace to create “International Day of Peace” cards, with inspiring messages of peace, which we’ll mail to NY City Councilmember’s promoting Resolution14.

Wednesday, August 18th, I joined other City Harvest volunteers down at the Union Square farmers market.

Thursday evening, August 19th, I attended Doug Biviano’s fundraiser for NYC Assembly campaign in Brooklyn Heights.

Saturday afternoon, August 21st, my friend Judith visited Manhattan and we did lunch [ie: Nanoosh], shopping and a movie [ie: Eat, Pray, Love]. We caught up on the latest news, gossip and health issues. When I got home that evening I started to read the book [Eat Pray Love] by Elizabeth Gilbert. I was also reading the “Abhorsen Trilogy” by Garth Nix, which was lent to me by my friends Gail and Rob.

Week of August 23rd was busy with many projects at work, and overtime, as E&Y wends its way closer to the completion of the “tax mini season” on Sept 15th. During moments of “down time” I would work on a few NYdoPeace projects for upcoming Community Board presentations to educate folk on Dept of Peace and Resolution 14.

Thursday evening, August 26th, listened to the “World Can’t Wait” weekly conference call.

Friday evening, August 27th, I attended the Friday Nite Knits group at our fav spot in Kensington [Brooklyn]. Our group was small this evening of just Margaret, Marcie and I. I ran into some troubles with the new knitting project I was attempting, and Margaret assisted me with it.

Sunday afternoon, August 29th, I head up to Ft Tryon Park to stroll around and enjoy the lovely weather. While there I did some sketching at the Cloisters, and some watercolor painting of the lovely gardens. That evening I finished the Elizabeth Gilbert book “Eat Pray Love”, which was very good, and I highly recommend it.

AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT – THE REAL NEWS

We Are Cornered: There’s No Way Out Without a Fight
Glen Ford, Black Agenda Report
http://blackagendareport.com/?q=content%2Fwe-are-cornered-theres-no-way-out-without-fight

Hideous, Murderous Lies from the Oval Office
Chris Floyd, World Can’t Wait
http://www.worldcantwait.net/index.php/home-mainmenu-289/6619-hideous-murderous-lies-from-the-oval-office

Kucinich Criticizes ‘Privatization of War’ After Obama’s Speech
Eric Dolan, The Raw Story
http://kucinich.us/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=28869&Itemid=76

US Withdraws Last Combat Brigade from Iraq, but 56,000 Troops Remain
Democracy Now!
http://www.democracynow.org/2010/8/19/headlines#1

Global Warming Deniers Aren’t ‘Experts’ at All: It’s Time for a New View of Science
Naomi Oreskes & Erik Conway, Bloomsbury USA
http://www.alternet.org/story/147668/global_warming_deniers_aren%27t_%22experts%22_at_all%3A_it%27s_time_for_a_new_view_of_science

Love, Travel, Sell – Minding the Store with Elizabeth Gilbert
Leah Rozen, NY Times
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/15/fashion/15With.html?_r=2&scp=1&sq=Love,%20Travel,%20Sell&st=cse

The Spin Stops Here: Help Counter the Media Spin on the War in 3 Easy Steps
Message from CodePink

You're invited to join our coalition of anti-war groups and peace activists for an online week of action, Days of Dissent, this Aug 23 - 31. We need your help to counter the media spin and tell the truth about the Iraq War.

This week, US combat troops exit Iraq leaving behind over 50,000 soldiers and 75,000 military contractors. From the White House to CNN, officials and pundits are spinning the Iraq War as a "success" when much of the country is in shambles.

We're demanding a real end to the war -- a full withdrawal of all troops and military contractors, full support for returning troops, and a redirection of war funds to rebuild our countries. Please join us! You can start by changing your profile picture to the image we've made for the event to help spread the word and counter the spin. See the attached link for the event.

RSVP to our Days of Dissent event on Facebook and invite your friends. On our event page, you'll find a link to our petition and more ways to help counter the spin. Here's the link: http://bit.ly/counterspin

If you don't have much time, but still want to help counter the spin, you can help by donating to our coalition. We're collecting funds to run a full-page newspaper ad showing the peace movement's response to the media spin on the ongoing Iraq debacle.

Thanks for all that you do!

ps. Here are some quick links and simple steps to get you started. Read & sign our petition here: http://bitly.com/isign

TIME FOR SOME “NEWS”

Fire and Imagination
Bob Herbert, NY Times
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/14/opinion/14herbert.html?_r=1&ref=bobherbert

Halliburton Gets Letter of Intent for Iraq Oil
Associated Press
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/38760952/ns/business-oil_and_energy

[Duchess Note - "No blood for oil!" That is what many of us activists and protesters were saying back in 2002 to 2004. Darth Cheney must be ecstatic over his beloved Halliburton getting this “letter of intent”, plus hegemony in the region.]

Hey Fox Fans, Your Favorite Network Is Part-Owned by a Saudi Prince Whose Family Rules by Sharia Law
Digby, AlterNet
http://blogs.alternet.org/speakeasy/2010/08/17/hey-fox-fans-your-favorite-network-is-part-owned-by-a-saudi-prince-whose-family-rules-by-sharia-law/

The US Has Lost in Afghanistan – We Have to Come to Grips with What That Means
Conn Hallinan, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/147860/the_us_has_lost_in_afghanistan_--_we_have_to_come_to_grips_with_what_that_means

CODEPINK: Peace Movement Responds to "Iraq Troop Withdrawal": the Iraq Debacle Is Not Over
http://act.commondreams.org/go/1956?akid=144.19616.3rIrK5&t=38

No ‘Graceful Exit’
Bob Herbert, NY Times
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/17/opinion/17herbert.html?ref=bobherbert

Profits Are Way Up at General Motors, So Why Aren’t They Hiring?
Michael Moore, AlterNet
http://www.alternet.org/story/147886/michael_moore%3A_profits_are_way_up_at_general_motors_..._so_why_aren%27t_they_hiring

BP Oil Spill: Scientists Find Giant Plume of Droplets 'Missed' by Official Account
http://act.commondreams.org/go/1939?akid=144.19616.3rIrK5&t=4

Obama's Pledge to Close Down Guantanamo is 'Not Even Close'
http://act.commondreams.org/go/1940?akid=144.19616.3rIrK5&t=6

Some US Troops Out of Iraq, More Mercenaries to Go In
http://act.commondreams.org/go/1941?akid=144.19616.3rIrK5&t=8

Kucinich Urges Colleagues to End 'Longest War in US History'
Challenges Petraeus’ Media Strategy to Delay Troop Withdrawal

WASHINGTON - Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-OH) is challenging American and NATO forces commander General David H. Petraeus' media strategy to shore up support for the war in Afghanistan. General Petraeus appeared on Sunday news shows and gave lengthy interviews to rally support for the war and to maintain troop levels. Kucinich, the leader of the movement in the Democratic Party to end the war in Afghanistan, who recently forced a debate and vote on ending the war, wrote to fellow Members of Congress urging them to consider America's longest war as they meet with their constituents during the August District Work Period.

The full text of the letter follows:

August 17, 2010

Dear Colleague:

As you return home to your congressional district for recess, it is appropriate to reflect on the commitment of billions of dollars and an additional 30,000 U.S. troops to continue the war in Afghanistan. A recent article published in The New York Times announced that General David H. Petraeus plans to press for a slower withdrawal from Afghanistan in response to growing Congressional opposition to the war.

According to the article, General Petraeus and U.S. military officials are "building the case to minimize the planned withdrawal of some troops from Afghanistan starting next summer." General Petraeus and senior administration officials are arguing that while we've been in Afghanistan for nine years now, we have only just started "doing this right." A quick look at statistics this year reveals that not much has been going right since we increased our military presence in Afghanistan.

Since January of this year, approximately $104 billion has been appropriated for the war in Afghanistan and over 270 U.S. soldiers have died. The so-called cornerstone of our counterinsurgency strategy is the protection of Afghan civilians. Yet a new mid-year report on civilian casualties in Afghanistan by the United Nations reveals that civilian casualties have risen 31% since this same time last year. The report further reveals that civilian casualties at the hands of the Taliban have sharply risen. According to an article published in The Guardian, U.S. and NATO combat operations in Marjah - our military offensive orchestrated to make the case for an increase in troops - "heralded a wave of Taliban abductions, assassinations, and executions."

Afghan President Hamid Karzai announced last week that he was establishing a handpicked committee to review two U.S.-backed anticorruption task forces. This, after it was exposed that almost $4 billion in cash - much of it believed to be U.S. taxpayer provided aid - was being flown out of the country in suitcases by his government officials.

Congress has approved another $33 billion to fund the surge in Afghanistan. Afghanistan war funding has been used to support a hopelessly corrupt central government and it comes at a grave cost. Over 1,000 U.S. lives have been lost and thousands of innocent Afghan civilians have lost their lives or have been gravely injured. In the process, we have weakened our own security and well-being here at home. There is no war to be won in Afghanistan. General Petraeus may try to convince us that more of the same is a good idea. But it is ultimately the responsibility of Congress to decide. Please join me in urging for a timely withdrawal of all U.S. troops from Afghanistan and an end to what is now the longest war in U.S. history.

Sincerely,
Dennis J. Kucinich
Member of Congress

[Duchess Note - Many thanks to Alice and Judith in sharing many articles.]

HELP SUPPORT NEW YORK CITY COUNCIL RESOLUTION 14

[Contact your NY City Councilmember today by phone, email or fax. Please, take a moment to ask them to support R14 and become a co-sponsor. Thank you and be peace.]

For New Yorkers, September has been a sad and tragic reminder of the power of hate these past nine years. We know all too well the final culmination of hatred’s unyielding grasp; destruction and misery.

However, as Americans we also know the good that can come from rising about hate. This year New York City can show the world that we believe in the power of peace over violence. The choice is ours!

New Yorkers for a Department of Peace believes there is no better way to exemplify this than by the City Council passing Rosie Mendez’s Resolution 14 in support of a United States Department of Peace.

September also brings with it the United Nations 2002 declaration that the 21st of this month be known as the International Day of Peace. We urge you to use this occasion to take another look at H.R. 808 in the U.S. Congress, which calls for the establishment of the Peace Department.

Our city, our country and the global community are in desperate need of direct, focused and proven approaches to reducing all forms of violence at every level of society.

This September you can change the course of history by supporting R14. Who better than citizens of New York City to lead the way in transforming hate into love!

NYDOP Contact
Website: www.nyc-dop.com
Email: nydopeace@gmail.com

NY CITY COUNCIL Contact
Website: http://council.nyc.gov/html/members/members.shtml
R14: http://legistar.council.nyc.gov/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=648845&GUID=8C33F214-E6DB-4581-85E6-FB599C3CC225&Options=IDText&Search=Resolution+14

Rep Grayson Unleashes on Gibbs: “Bozo the Spokesman”
Ben Craw, The Huffington Post
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/08/11/rep-grayson-unleashes-on_n_679060.html

Kucinich Hits Back at Gibbs: You’ve Read Liberals Wrong
The Huffington Post
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2010/08/12/kucinich-hits-back-at-gib_n_679723.html

[Duchess Note: Bravo Grayson and Kucinich!! "We The People" thank you for taking a stand. I agree with Grayson, in that, Gibbs needs to be fired. He’s doing a piss poor job, but then again, he’s getting his “talking points” from the Obomba Regime. And for the record, I firmly believe Kucinich never ever said do away with the Pentagon, we just need checks/balance by establishing a US Dept of Peace. To learn more about HR808, check out these links … The Peace Alliance http://www.thepeacealliance.org/ … READ THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF PEACE BILL HERE: http://www.thepeacealliance.org/content/view/658/23/ ]

PERSONAL NEWS #185

Thursday, July 1st, I chaired the NYdoPeace CCR team conference call, and the main topic was on NY City Council Resolution 14.

July 2nd to 5th, I had an enjoyable visit with my parents for the holiday weekend. Through the course of the weekend I worked on crocheting a baby blanket, hair salon appt, Crazy Glue container stuck to my thumb, Dad’s car died while Mom and I were utilizing it, did some painting/sketching, reading, rode my bike, and caught up on rest from a hectic work schedule.

Wednesday, July 7th, I attended the NYC Philosophy meetup at the Irish Rogue.

Thursday evening, July 8th, I participated in the “World Can’t Wait” conference call.

Saturday evening, July 10th, I joined my friend Dennis in attending the Doobie Brothers and Chicago gig out at Jones Beach Theater in western Long Island. Was so glad the weather cooperated for all. The storms passed by a few hours before the gig and the humidity dropped. Amen! Both Dennis and I whipped up a tasty, healthy picnic to enjoy out in the parking lot [tailgating] before the gig started. Many others were doing the same out in the parking lot. Our seats were up in the top tier of this outdoor theater with terrific views of the surrounding water and wetlands. Doobie Brothers came on first at 8pm and played a terrific one-hour set. At times Dennis and I were dancing in the aisle, it was that good. Then a 20 minute or so intermission followed and I made my bathroom break. Chicago came on at 9:30pm and performed an equally good one-hour set. Great to finally see two bands I loved from the 1970s and 1980s live in concert. Then the Doobie Brothers came out to join Chicago for an awesome 20 minute plus encore and finale. Dennis and I were dancing like crazy to the music in the handicap section, as it was empty. So exhilarating and joyful! I sang along with most of the songs all evening. [Afterwards, Dennis and I purchased band t-shirts out in the parking lot from some dude for $10 each.] Happy, happy ... joy, joy J

Monday evening, July 12th, I did some volunteer work for Doug Biviano’s NYC Assembly campaign in Brooklyn Heights.

Tuesday evening, July 13th, I was invited [thank you Cielito] to the “We Are the Hartman’s” fundraiser event at Don Hill’s bar in Tribeca.

Wednesday evening, July 14th, I was invited by fellow NYdoPeace member, Chris Archer, to the local Manhattan Green Party meeting on upper Westside. Chris was giving a brief presentation on Dept of Peace [HR808] and NY City Council Resolution 14. I was there for support, hand out Peace Alliance brochures and to answer questions about the NYdoPeace chapter. This chapter of the Green Party was very supportive of the presentation and voted to endorse it. The only drawback to the evening was the host’s apartment had no air conditioning and just a fan or two.

Thursday evening, July 15th, after getting a much needed manicure, I chaired the NYdoPeace CCR team conference call. Topic was regarding follow-up calls to NY City Council members and Community Board district managers on recent letters faxed to them on Resolution 14.

Friday evening, July 16th, I joined my friend Margaret in visiting our friend Eileen at Mt Sinai hospital on the upper Eastside. We brought gifties and stayed over an hour. At one point, Eileen’s foul husband, and soon to be ex, showed up to attempt assistance with her laptop. Afterwards Margaret and I went to “One Fish Two Fish” for a late dinner and chat.

On a hot Saturday, July 17th, I headed out to Westbury, NY for the “Empowering Women” event hosted by the awesome ladies of LIDoP. It was an inspiring, informative and definitely an empowering event that took place over a 4 hour span. Some of the LIDoP ladies were part of NYdoPeace and it was great seeing them again. Many hugs were exchanged and catching up on news. [See photo below] Another “Empowering Women” event is being planned for the early autumn. Stay tuned for updates.................

On Wednesday, July 21st, my friend Nancie visited me at my office for lunch and catch up on news. She’s up from VA visiting family and our mutual friend Eileen who is at Mt Sinai hospital.

Thursday evening, July 22nd, I attended a book release & signing, plus Panel Discussion on “Erasing Iraq: The Human Costs of Carnage” at Revolution Books on 146 West 26th Street, NYC. Author Michael Otterman was there to talk about his new book and do a Q&A segment. “‘Erasing Iraq’ is an account of the actual carnage in human terms, including interviews with Iraqi refugees. The continuing U.S. occupation is described as an “attempted sociocide”… either through negligence or deliberate strategy to stun the country into submission. If I could only recommend one book that provides a comprehensive overview of both the situation in Iraq today, and the decades of US backed policy it took to create this nightmare scenario, ‘Erasing Iraq’ is it.” Quote by Dahr Jamail [“Beyond the Green Zone”].

Friday evening, July 23rd, I attended Friday Nite Knits in the Kensington section of Brooklyn.

July 27th, at 5pm, I had therapy at my foot doctor’s office, and then afterwards attended the “Rethink Afghanistan” meetup in Park Slope. This is a new meetup hosted and created by Emma, whom I know via the last Kucinich presidential campaign. About six of us attended the meetup. Much was discussed, idea’s bopped around, suggestions, links and strategizing on what our meetup can accomplish down the road. Stay tuned for further updates. . . . . .

July 28th, at 6pm, I met up with Dennis and we had Chinese cuisine before heading off to MSG to see Buddy Guy and Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers in concert. Our seats were up in the top most tiers at MSG and the air conditioning didn’t always work so well. Plus the cigarette and pot smoke mingled around didn’t help my asthma or lungs. Dennis lent me his inhaler at one point, which helped quite abit for my breathing. As to the gigs … well … both were really good and entertaining. I recognized all the Tom Petty hits from the 1980s and the audience participation was intense.

On Saturday, July 31st, I attended Quidditch at Riverside Park on the upper Westside with TGTSNBN. Marauders won 2 games out of 3 over the Centaurs. I was assisting on the sidelines with keeping score. Weather was perfect and that friggin humidity was down. Amen! Afterwards, I strolled around the park to do some sketching, photographs, plus read my book [ie: Sabriel]. Back home briefly rested and freshen up, then back into the city to volunteer with City Harvest down at Union Square farmers market. Then bop up to Stone Creek Lounge on East 27th Street to hangout with TGTSNBN to celebrate Harry’s 30th birthday. Yep, that’s right; Harry was born in 1980 according to JK Rowling. TGTSNBN took over Stone Creek Lounge and partied with much eating of food, cake, drinking, playing Charades and having “Goblet of Fire” playing in the background. At one point I had a lengthy conversation with Tom about the final season of LOST. Overall it was a great evening that rounded out a terrific day.

[Me holding a Harry Potter doll, and posing with some of TGTSNBN members at Stone Creek Lounge.]

AND NOW FOR SOMETHING COMPLETELY DIFFERENT … REAL NEWS

End of Iraq Combat Operations or Beginning of Downsized, Rebranded Occupation Relying Heavily on Private Military Contractors?
Democracy Now & Jeremy Scahill
http://www.democracynow.org/2010/8/3/end_of_iraq_combat_operations_or

How Facebook Betrayed Users and Undermined Online Privacy
Allan Badliner, AlterNet
Facebook has collected loads of private information about their users. Information that is being sold to marketers.
http://www.alternet.org/story/147760/how_facebook_betrayed_users_and_undermined_online_privacy

America Can’t Solve Crises Because It’s a Company-Owned Town
Glen Ford, Black Agenda Report
http://www.blackagendareport.com/?q=content/america-cant-solve-crises-because-its-company-owned-town

Obama Slams ‘Obsession’ With Ending War in Afghanistan – Insists His Focus is on Winning the War
Jason Ditz, AntiWar.com
http://news.antiwar.com/2010/06/27/obama-slams-obsession-with-ending-war-in-afghanistan/

“Dirty Truths” by Dr Michael Parenti
http://www.takeoverworld.info/parenti_talks.html

Noam Chomsky: The U.S. Continues to Be a Terrorist State
By Joel Whitney, Guernica
http://www.alternet.org/story/146815/

Dennis Kucinich Announces Two Important House Votes
Cleveland, Ohio (July 26, 2010)

Congressman Dennis Kucinich announces that he and Congressman Ron Paul are joining in a cause focused at compelling the removal of U.S. military forces from Pakistan. Later this week, Congressman Kucinich will also support ending the War in Afghanistan by cutting off funding for the war. Transcript follows below:

Hi everyone, Dennis here:

This week we have two very important votes for the future of this country and the future of the world. The first deals with Pakistan - House Concurrent Resolution 301, and the second deals with supplemental funding which will provide another 33-billion dollars to keep the War in Afghanistan going. I would like to speak to you briefly about both of those votes.

The first vote is likely to occur this Tuesday on House Concurrent Resolution 301, sponsored by myself and Congressman Ron Paul of Texas. This resolution aims to cause the United States to withdraw from Pakistan. Now, it's not generally known that we have at least 124 Special Forces troops on the ground inside Pakistan. It is absolutely urgent that we take a stand to stop spreading war in Pakistan. To nip in the bud the U.S. ground presence.

We already know the U.S. has had missile strikes inside Pakistan since March of 2005 with a lot of innocent villagers killed. All that we can do is to expand the war into Pakistan, destabilize that government and have the United States fighting on still another front. We have to get out of Pakistan and that's why Ron Paul and I have come together, for the first time, to force a vote on this question.

Later in the week we'll be faced once again with the question whether to continue to fund the War in Afghanistan. The New York Times and other news agencies have taken WikiLeaks reports and have released this news globally. And what we've learned in the last 24 hours is that there is another secret war going on in Afghanistan. A war of failure. A war of our troops getting undermined by people that we think are working with us.

This is occurring in Pakistan, it's also happening in Afghanistan. The Afghanistan government is a cesspool of corruption. There is no plausible way that anything even remotely resembling a democracy can be established there. Our presence there is an occupation fueling an insurgency.

We have to get out of Afghanistan. We owe it to our troops. We owe it to our national security. We owe it to our budget. We owe it to the American people who hope for a better life here at home.

So, again, this week, two important votes: one tomorrow to get out of Pakistan and, later this week, end the War in Afghanistan by cutting off funding. I'll be in touch with you as matters progress.

I appreciate your on-going support. I need your help to continue to serve in the United States Congress. Thank you, very much.

Pakistan – The Real Reason Why the US and India Demonize Pakistan’s ISI
Shahid R. Siddiqui, Axis of Logic
http://axisoflogic.com/artman/publish/Article_60777.shtml

Anthony Weiner’s [D-NY] Heated Speech on the House Floor Over 911 Responders
http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/video/weiner-heated-frenzy-911-responders-heated-speech-house-anthony-congress-11290919

Obama Administration in Danger of Establishing “New Normal” With Worst Bush-Era Policies, says ACLU … Group releases 18-month review of President’s national security polices and civil liberties.
http://www.aclu.org/national-security/obama-administration-danger-establishing-new-normal-worst-bush-era-policies-says-a

The New Aristocrats of Finance Pose a Serious Threat to Our Democratic Way of Life
Joe Costello, Archein
Across our political system, we have lost checks and balances. It’s time take back what’s ours.
http://www.alternet.org/story/147775/the_new_aristocrats_of_finance_pose_a_serious_threat_to_our_democratic_way_of_life

[Duchess Note: Many thanks to Judith and Alice in sharing many of the articles in this posting.]