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libertyinchaos
Dec. 28th, 2007
10:11 am - Benazir Bhutto's Life and Death, A Review
December 28th, 2007
Benazir Bhutto, former Prime Minister of Pakistan, was assassinated on Thursday (12/27/07) in an attack involving guns and explosives. The following is a brief review of Bhutto's impact on our world. If you would like to know more about Bhutto, please follow the links below.
Bhutto Images:
Bhutto's Accomplishments:
http://www.chowk.com/articles/13269
http://www.blueridgenow.com/article/200
http://www.wthr.com/Global/story.as
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/co
Bhutto's Assassination:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/stor
http://www.nationalpost.com/rss/story.h
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jh
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jh
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/00
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/st
http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2
http://www.boston.com/news/local/new_ha
http://www.hindu.com/thehindu/holnus/00
http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/na
________________________________________
Dec. 14th, 2007
07:44 am - A Documentation of the Destruction, CIA Interrogation Tapes
December 14th, 2007
Image Credit: http://www.dubyad40.com
Most if not all of you are already now aware of the destruction of Video Recordings that documented the interrogations of suspected Al Queda terrorists by the CIA.
This article seeks to document this crime, for future referencing in coming litigation. This author predicts much in the way of hearings, in the wake of this clear federal offense.
Clearly, in combination with the violation of 50 USC Sec. 435 at the time of the 'Outing' of former U.S. covert operative Valerie Plame, and the horrendous display of torture inflicted upon suspected terrorists by U.S. Army personnel at Abu Graib, these high crimes and misdemeanors bring to mind a certain quote from the U.S. Constitution...
From Article 2, Section 4:
"The President, Vice President and all Civil Officers of the United States, shall be removed from Office on Impeachment for and Conviction of, Treason, Bribery, or other high Crimes and Misdemeanors."
Congressman Dennis Kucinich's call for impeachment resounds with clarity in the wake of this dark scandal. For this report, I will source video, audio, and several text articles to preserve the integrity of the facts developing in this story.
From MSNBC's Keith Olbermann, courtesy of 'researchris' and Youtube:
If the above video does not load in your browser, you can find it at the following link:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vzggByJJ
From NPR, National Public Radio:
(December 7, 2007) {It was the second bombshell of the week from the U.S. intelligence community: The CIA acknowledged that in 2005, it destroyed two videotapes showing harsh interrogation techniques used against al-Qaida suspects. The CIA director told agency employees about it Thursday as the New York Times was about to break the story. On Friday, lawmakers in Washington called for an investigation, and civil rights groups said the government may have destroyed key evidence for ongoing terrorism cases.}
For the full story on this report, go here:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/stor
The podcast is available here:
http://www.npr.org/templates/player/med
To follow this issue in it's entirety at NPR, go here:
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/stor
The RSS Feed of breaking news on this issue is here:
http://www.npr.org/rss/rss.php?id=17117
From the AFP, Agence France-Presse:
(December 11, 2007) {"We have a commitment from General Hayden for a full and complete accounting and record of everything that's available," the House committee's Democratic chairman, Silvestre Reyes, told reporters...
Following press reports, Hayden revealed last week in a letter to CIA staff that the tapes were made in 2002 and destroyed in 2005, just as Congress was investigating allegations of US abuse of "war on terror" detainees.}
The full story from AFP is here:
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5i3M
From the AP, Associated Press:
{Though Remes acknowledged the tapes might not be covered by Kennedy's order, he said, "It is still unlawful for the government to destroy evidence, and it had every reason to believe that these interrogation records would be relevant to pending litigation concerning our client." In legal documents filed in January 2005, Assistant Attorney General Peter D. Keisler assured Kennedy that government officials were "well aware of their obligation not to destroy evidence that may be relevant in pending litigation."}
The full story is here:
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5geGD
This story continues to develop. We at P&M will certainly be following it.
________________________________________
-Nathan Morrison is a political news columnist for Powers&Morrison.com
For further information on this or any article printed herein, please contact: Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com, or refer to the sources cited internally.
________________________________________
In un-related news, P&M Columnist Victor Lopez is now back in the United States. His most recent post just came out today, and is available at:
http://www.victorlopez.powersandmorriso
I encourage everyone to stop over to his page and welcome Victor back home!
________________________________________
Nov. 30th, 2007
08:44 am - PM News
November 30th, 2007
We've got some exciting news here at P&M this week, and so I've decided to dedicate this week's post to explaining what's new here at the site.
As many of you are aware, our Columnists are active not only here at P&M, but at many other prominent sites across the web. Freckles, our Teen News Columnist, has over the past several months developed a political website for youth across the nation. Many of you are regular readers, but for those who have not yet dropped in, check it out at:
http://www.youthinkleft.com
Freckles work can also be found at:
http://frecklescassie.wordpress.com
One of her prominent contributors, and a regular correspondent for P&M over the past 2 years, is now joining the writing staff here at P&M. Known across the web as TexasBetsy, her daily blog is also available through YOUTHINKLEFT, at: http://www.youthinkleft.com/news/
Betsy is a regular voice not only at YOUTHINKLEFT, but in Political Chat Rooms, Message Boards, and Radio Programs, reporting on relevant political news with experienced, rational arguments from Texas. Betsy also served for a time here at P&M as Editor for The Old Sarge, a former P&M Columnist who now broadcasts at Nova M Radio. Betsy is also a 'News Ninja' over at Head On Radio Network:
http://texbetsy.headonradionetwork.com/
It is with great pleasure that we announce the arrival of her Column, "Reality Based News and Blogs", here at P&M. Betsy's page will debut here next week, and P&M regular readers can get a sneak peak at her page this weekend. It is scheduled to go live Saturday at noon pacific time.
Another of our long time P&M Columnists, Daniel Solis, has moved on to host a weekly progressive podcast, at: http://www.thinkyouth.net
We at P&M know that the most important thing in Progressive Politics is to get the facts of each issue to our audiences in a direct and no-nonsense way. To this end in late 2006 P&M Columnists were invited to expand their writing base, both by writing freelance for other sites, and by developing both individual web presences, and their own writing staff. Some of our writers, like New Orleans Bureau Chief, Loki, brought their writers directly to P&M, using our established format to bring new viewers to a NOLA badly in need of attention. Others, like Freckles and Daniel Solis, were able to develop active sites elsewhere that have grown their own subcultures entirely. Solis and Freckles both focus on Teen/Youth Political Views, and we at P&M are proud of their ability to develop that smaller niche into such successful forces in the progressive community.
Finally, Columnist Dre, a.k.a. Andre Smith, has also been widely published of late. Dre's worked can now be found at the highly sourced Op-Ed News Site AssociatedContent.com. Follow the link below to see Dre's best articles reproduced in full:
http://www.associatedcontent.com/user/7
At every news outlet you will find some sort of political slant in the Op-Ed section. Here at P&M, we are proud to feature political news slanted towards the Public's perspective. We're even more pleased to learn that our 'public's perspective' slant is so accurate and on point with the nation's viewpoint that it continues on to other forums. We thank both our readers and contributors, for their continued effectiveness in the ongoing struggle for true democracy in this country. It is through our unity in this effort that progressive voices remain strong. So when you've caught up here at P&M on the latest, and have read all there is to know at your other favorites like Firedoglake and Truthout, make sure to swing by our Columnists' other sites, like YOUTHINKLEFT, and ThinkYouth. Give the next generation of Political activists a chance to earn your readership.
-Nathan Morrison is a Political News Columnist for Powers&Morrison.com For further information on this or any article printed herein, please contact: Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com All sources cited internally.
________________________________________
Nov. 23rd, 2007
03:04 pm - Your Name And Badge Number, Please...
November 23rd, 2007
Police Tasering Suspect, Image Credit: http://www.surfermag.com/features/onlin
What prompts a Police Officer to use a weapon on a citizen?
Apparently the answer to that question is lengthy, and includes; asking unpopular questions to political candidates, speeding, meeting for a church gathering, and the strangest claimed offense, DOING NOTHING AT ALL.
Don't believe me? Before we take a look at what you can do in such a situation, let's just bust out all of the evidence right here and now...
Being Tasered for asking questions...
On September 19th, 2007, Andrew Meyer, a student at the University of Florida, was tasered and arrested as he posed unpopular questions to former Presidential Candidate, John Kerry. {Two University of Florida police officers were on leave with pay Wednesday as university officials tried to sort out what caused them to use an electronic stun gun to subdue a student, the school's president said.}
For the full story, go here:
http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/09/19/studen
Being Tasered for Speeding...
Above Video may shock you...
{UHP (Utah Highway Patrol) tasers man in front of pregnant wife and baby over an alleged speeding ticket. Outraged? Call the Vernal, Utah UHP Office and let them know!}
Story original to:
http://cgi.fark.com/cgi/fark/youtub
Meanwhile, in Florida, Being Maced for attending a Church Function...
Mace Cloud Sprayed Over Peaceful Church Crowd... {An Orlando officer apparently caught on video spraying a can of mace "like it was an air freshener" over a seemingly peaceful downtown crowd -- sickening several people -- has prompted a police investigation.}
For the full story, go here: http://www.local6.com/news/14633857/det
Being Tasered for Defending yourself again street violence...
{"The exact number of times (the Taser was) deployed will be determined in the course of the investigation," Graham said. "Obviously he's engaged in a physical confrontation in the middle of the street with a suspect, therefore it's at the officers discretion at what means he can use to get control of the suspect." Allen is the eighth person shocked by a law enforcement Taser gun to die in northeast Florida. There were two deaths in St. Johns and Clay counties, and one each in Duval, Clay, Nassau, Putnam and Columbia counties.}
For the video report from local Channel 4 News, go here: http://www.news4jax.com/news/14635422/d
For the full story, go to: http://www.news4jax.com/news/14635422/d
And finally, being Tasered for NOT RESISTING ARREST...
{The video shows him backing up, raising his hands and turning away before the police stun him with the 50,000-volt Taser, sending him to the floor screaming before he's stunned again and the Mounties pin down his head and limbs to handcuff him. "Probably the most disturbing part is one of the officers using his leg and his knee to pin his head and his neck against the ground," said Paul Pritchard, who made the video. Dziekanski then became quiet and died soon after. "I don't know why it ever became a police incident," said retired Vancouver police Supt. Ron Foyle. "It didn't seem that he made any threatening gestures towards them."}
For the video of the Tasering, go here:
http://www.cbsnews.com/sections/i_v
For the full story go here:
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/1
A few other stories, just to make sure the evidence rings through loud and clear:
Taser Death - {A 20-year-old man died Sunday after being shot with a Taser device during a scuffle with a sheriff's deputy in Maryland, a spokeswoman for the Frederick County Sheriff's Office said...
Amnesty International has reported that, since June 2001, more than 150 people have died in the United States after being subdued with a stun gun. The organization has called for police departments to suspend use of the devices pending study of their possible risks.}
For the full story, go here: http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/11/18/ta
{(Male Officer) Kovach said he used the device on (Female Drunkard) Gill at least seven times, including twice while she was handcuffed, according to the police report...}
For the full story go here: http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/09/26/tasere
For an informative breakdown on Taser operation, go here: http://www.cnn.com/2007/US/09/26/tasere
Now then, I'm not entirely certain what makes Law Enforcement Officers decide to use weapons on unsuspecting citizens. Yes, that's right I said weapons. Mace, Tasers, these are weapons. They are claimed to be 'non-lethal' and are designed not to cause death, but they are nontheless weapons. Any weapon can be used to kill. Nightsticks, (the non-lethal option pre-taser) are also weapons. Known to the Japanese as the 'Tonfa' all trained martial artists are familiar with ways the nightstick can be used to cause serious injury or even death. Rodney King's famous footage proved surely that the usage of a weapon is the responsibility of the officer.
Using a weapon on a civilian is a serious offense, even if the weapon is not a gun. I'm not sure when 'To Serve and Protect' morphed into 'To Subdue and Control', but American Law does not side with these offending officers. In many of the above cited instances, the tasering (repeated tasering) led to death. That's called murder, whether you wear a badge or not.
What sets a police officer off? Who knows now-a-days... With the examples listed above, I can't tell you with a straight face that obeying the law is enough to keep you from being killed by a control happy cop.
What I can tell you, is the best way to deal with a Police Officer, so as to control the situation from the outset of your particular detainment.
It all starts with a simple question, "May I have your name and badge number please?"
Law Enforcement officers are trained to respond to this question in several ways. 1) They will comply with your request, even when asking you for your license and registration, and will dutifully supply you with their name and badge number. 2) They will take note that you are a citizen familiar with your rights and with the rule of law. 3) They will determine that you are in physical control of yourself.
If an officer does not respond in such fashion, you may use this evidence against him in a court of law. Demonstrating restraint in such a fashion will help to prove your case after the fact.
If an officer steps outside the bounds of his duty, and say, attempts to Taser you, etc. You have the following recourse available:
1) Point out to the officer that his actions are being recorded by the camera mounted on his/her dashboard. This video/audio evidence is not only used in court against citizens, but for them. If a police officer violates the law and is caught on video, that's one thing. If an officer is caught on video breaking the law AFTER BEING WARNED that he/she is being recorded... that's something else altogether. A verbal warning of the fact that you are being taped can go a long way towards preventing police violence.
2) You are absolutely allowed to dial 911, and summon other law enforcement officials to the scene. In fact, you have the ability to dial 911 and ascertain verification that an officer is validly attempting a pull-over, before you agree to pull your car over. If you decide to do so, applying your emergency flashers and driving slowly is expected.
3) You may request a review of your Miranda Rights (to remain silent, etc.) You do not have to co-operate with a police officer's requests, as long as you do not forcibly resist arrest. You MAY remain silent, you MAY go through the booking process and then begin to fight your case from there.
4) You may place the offending officer under arrest. Yep, that's right. Though many have forgotten, citizens of the United States of America have the power to arrest. It's called a Citizen's Arrest, and it's perfectly legal to do. It's one of the 'Checks on Power' that makes our country great. You will most likely be required to report fully on the incident to the officer responding to your request for arrest. You should also be prepared to give a deposition of the events to a lawyer. To arrest someone, you simply need to state to that person (Police Officer or Citizen) I am placing you under citizen's arrest. Physically placing your hand upon either an officer or citizen is considered an arrest as well, in conjunction with the arrest command.
Don't forget, that Law Enforcement is here to Serve and Protect the public, and that force is not always necessary. Know your rights, and always ask for a name and badge number...
Supporting information for Citizens who fear Police Violence:
http://www.constitution.powersandmorris
http://www.amendments.powersandmor
http://www.usconstitution.net/miranda.h
http://www.cccr.org/ - Citizens' Rights Information
From the Amendments to the United States Constitution, the document(s) from which the power of Law Enforcement is given...
AMENDMENT [I.]
Congress shall make NO LAW respecting an establishment of religion, or PROHIBITING the free exercise thereof; or abridging the FREEDOM OF SPEECH, or of the press; or the right of the people PEACEABLY to ASSEMBLE, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances.
AMENDMENT [IV.]
The right of the people to be SECURE IN THEIR PERSONS, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized.
AMENDMENT [V.]
No person shall be held to answer for a capital, or otherwise infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment of a Grand Jury, except in cases arising in the land or naval forces, or in the Militia, when in actual service in time of War or public danger; nor shall any person be subject for the same offense to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb; nor shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be deprived of LIFE, LIBERTY, or property, without due process of law; nor shall private property be taken for public use, without just compensation.
AMENDMENT [VIII.]
Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, NOR CRUEL AND UNUSUAL PUNISHMENTS inflicted.
AMENDMENT [IX.]
The enumeration in the Constitution, of certain rights, SHALL NOT be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people.
AMENDMENT [X.]
The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or TO THE PEOPLE.
AMENDMENT XIV.
SECTION. 1. All persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No State SHALL make or ENFORCE ANY LAW which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of LIFE, LIBERTY, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.
-Nathan Morrison is a political news columnist for Powers&Morrison.com For further information on this or any article printed herein, please contact: Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com. All sources cited internally.
________________________________________
Nov. 16th, 2007
08:52 am - Giuliani Vs Clinton? It's a ReRun, I've seen this one, Clinton wins...
Image Credit: http://www.nypost.com/seven/12102006/ph
The year was 2000, the place was New York State. The candidates faced off for a seat in the United States Senate. Then Mayor of New York City, Rudy Giuliani couldn't even finish the race. Ostensibly the reason was he felt he needed time to focus on his cancer treatment.
From his withdrawal speech (May 19, 2000)
Giuliani: "And politics is important, but it is by far not the most important thing in life. Your life is more important, your health is more important, the people you love, your family, people that are close to you and really care about you. You know, those are the most important things in life...And then, after that, comes politics. And it's important, because you serve other people, you know, but there are a lot of ways to do that, including being a better mayor."
Full Transcript available at: http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRI
While it is clear that Rudy was facing Prostate Cancer, the disease was caught early and is easily treated through modern medicine. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians:
"The main risks of this surgery are incontinence (lack of bladder control) and impotence (loss of the ability to get or keep an erection long enough to have sex). Fortunately, only a very low percentage of men have severe incontinence after radical prostatectomy. Up to 35% of men have a little accidental leakage of urine during heavy lifting, coughing or laughing."
http://familydoctor.org/online/famd
This is hardly a reason to quit one's job, especially when the primary treatment method for early stage victims is 'Watch & Wait'.
New Yorkers at the time knew the real reasons for Giuliani's withdrawal from the race. His poll numbers began to plummet (especially in Republican heavy upstate NY) in the wake of several recent scandals that were plastered across the evening news, night after night. Two such examples are here:
"In 2000, Giuliani allowed his messy personal life -- a public separation, a public girlfriend -- to spill into the headlines. He dropped out of the race after being diagnosed with prostate cancer, but many people around him saw the illness as just one of many factors ending the campaign."
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/01
"City Hall insiders claim the real reason is complications in his personal life, following his announcement to the press that he is seeking a legal separation from his wife (something that came as news to her) and his flaunting of a relationship with an Upper East Side Manhattan divorcee whom he describes as his 'very good friend.' ...Few have noted that Giuliani's withdrawal announcement came immediately after his wife retained one of the city's premier divorce lawyers."
http://www.wsws.org/articles/2000/may20
Image Credit: http://cityguideny.com/columnpic/donnah
Donna Hanover, then Giuliani's wife,"had been in the headlines lately after announcing she would star in a sexually charged play, The Vagina Monologues. She subsequently canceled her role when the mayor reported he had been diagnosed with prostate cancer."
For the full article on Giuliani's various female companions, go to:
http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2000/0
So the man who says, "the people you love, your family, people that are close to you and really care about you. You know, those are the most important things in life...And then, after that, comes politics." then leaves his wife for another woman, after his wife has quit her own job to help support him.
And this expose just would not be complete without a brief review of another controversial (to the GOP Base) Giuliani past-time:
"There`s something a little odd about Rudy Giuliani. He likes to get dressed up as a woman. Repeatedly. In really, really outrageous and revealing outfits..."
http://www.allreaders.com/rudy_giul
In another section of Giuliani's withdrawal speech, he states, ""I used to think the core of me was in politics, probably. It isn't...."
Image Credit:
http://jackblood.netfirms.com/home/imag
So besides the fact that he's currently running for President of the United States, what else did Giuliani do after declaring that politics just wasn't where his 'core' was? That's right, he attempted to remain in power after his second term as Mayor had ended, giving the middle finger to democracy and the rule of law.
“At the end of his last term (as mayor of NYC), Giuliani floated the idea of postponing the mayoral election so he could stay in office a little longer."
http://www.slate.com/id/2176817/
Original to: http://www.windypundit.com/archives/200
That being said, there seems to be this rumor floating around that Giuliani is the frontrunner on the Republican side of the aisle for the Presidential Nomination in 2008. This article: http://mydd.com/story/2007/11/12/18
Finally there is another popular contemporary American myth that somehow Rudy Giuliani was a hero on 9/11...
Image Credit: http://www.alaskapffa.org/
From the NY FireFighter's Union:
(Regarding the IAFF Presidential Forum) "Early on, the IAFF made a decision to invite all serious candidates from both political parties — except one: former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani. We made this decision after considerable soul-searching and close consultation with our two New York City affiliates, the Uniformed Firefighters Association Local 94 and the Uniformed Fire Officers Association Local 854, as well as our former Local 94 President and current IAFF 1st District Vice President covering New York."
"The IAFF recognizes that Mayor Giuliani generally enjoys a favorable reputation as a result of his actions immediately after the tragedy of 9/11. As such, we want our affiliates and every one of our members to clearly understand the reason and rationale behind this very serious and sober decision. Many people consider Rudy Giuliani "America's Mayor," and many of our members who don't yet know the real story, may also have a positive view of him. This letter is intended to make all of our members aware of the egregious acts Mayor Giuliani committed against our members, our fallen on 9/11, and our New York City union officers following that horrific day."
In short, Giuliani banned firefighters from searching out the bodies of their fallen compatriots, among other unfathomable acts. Read the entire article here... http://firefightingnews.com/article-U
Rudy Giuliani is no hero. New Yorkers then and now know better, and will tell you so. Sure, he cleaned up Times Square, by selling it to Disney/TimeWarner. Sure he got rid of all the strip clubs there (they moved right next door to 8th avenue). But a hero of 9/11? America's Mayor? These are terms that do not describe Rudy Giuliani.
Womanizer (see Donna Hanover info above), Fascist (see postponing the mayoral election info above), and Betrayer of Trust (see FireFighter info above), that's Rudy Giuliani. These are the reasons he could never hope to defeat Hilary Clinton in the NY Senate Race. This is the evidence that will bring down his campaign for America's Presidency as well.
-Nathan Morrison is a political news columnist for Powers&Morrison.com
For further information on this or any article printed herein, please contact: Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com
All sources cited internally.
________________________________________
Nov. 9th, 2007
03:50 pm - Oil Spill Ravages San Francisco Bay
November 9th, 2007, 5:45PM California Time
Hamjin Ship - AP Photo
I'm certain that most have now heard of the horrendous event that occurred beneath the Bay Bridge on Wednesday morning. The above pictured Oil Tanker crashed into a support strut for the Bridge, rupturing the tanker's hull and sending crude oil streaming out into the Bay.
This report will focus first and foremost on the developing disaster's pertinent details, and will then expand to suggest ways in which incidents such as this can be prevented.
The Details Thus Far...
"The oil has apparently spread around the bay, with some of it moving beyond the Golden Gate Bridge into the Pacific Ocean. It's reportedly been sighted about 15 miles north of the city and has resulted in at least eight area beaches being closed. "
The Motley Fool - http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2
"The spill occurred shortly before 8:30 Wednesday morning, when the Cosco Busan, a 900-foot container ship bound from Oakland to South Korea, hit one of the fog-shrouded towers of the Bay Bridge's western span, tearing open a fuel tank and dumping bunker fuel into the bay. The cause remained under investigation Thursday. All day Thursday, a sheen of goopy bunker fuel spread in ribbons across the bay. Oil was reported as far south as Hunters Point, east to Oakland up through Raccoon Straits to Richmond, along the San Francisco waterfront, and several miles outside the Golden Gate Bridge. Oiled birds also were found as far north as Stinson Beach."
San Jose Mercury News - http://www.mercurynews.com/ci_7414045?s
Area Wildlife Affected...
Bird in Oil - Picture by Frederic Larson (AP Photo/San Francisco Chronicle)
"It's sort of like a rip in a wetsuit," Edinger said. "They get cold, they beach themselves and they start preening their feathers. They can ingest oil, and that shuts down their digestive system. They lose energy and the ability to take on water and moisture." Birds that escape the slick can fall prey to a different peril: They can't find food, become debilitated and may die. Edinger said most birds being treated were surf scoters, but there were reports of gulls and other shorebirds being affected. He said the next two or three days could see the numbers of imperiled birds jump significantly.
LA Times - http://www.latimes.com/news/printeditio
The State Reports...
Alcatraz in Oil - Picture by Kurt Rogers / San Francisco Chronicle
"California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger declared a state of emergency on Friday to help fight the San Francisco oil spill that is threatening wildlife and several miles of pristine coastline. "I have signed an emergency proclamation, so all the state's resources can be coordinated to address this oil spill," Schwarzenegger said."
AFP - http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM
The California Bay Bridge has reported no delays due to the spill. Realtime information on Bay Bridge traffic can be found here: http://www.dot.ca.gov/dist4/
There has not been a definitive report on the damage to the Bridge's support strut, however Fox News (Not a valid news source) is reporting the following: "A container ship traveling through dense fog bumped into a tower supporting the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge Wednesday, but appeared to have caused no damage to the span, officials said."
Fox News - http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,309
Much mention has been made of Oil 'Booms' in regards to the clean-up effort. Oil Booms are absorbent mesh lined floating structures that filter oil from the surface of water. These products are commercially available for less than $100.00 a piece:
http://www.dawginc.com/spill-control-ab
http://www.abssupport.com/Merchant2/mer
Responsibility (Financial and Otherwise)...
In case there is any doubt whatsoever as to with whom the responsibility for cleanup lies, here is the answer...
According to US Law, TITLE 33--NAVIGATION AND NAVIGABLE WATERS CHAPTER 40--OIL POLLUTION :
"Notwithstanding any other provision or rule of law, and subject to the provisions of this Act, each responsible party for a vessel or a facility from which oil is discharged, or which poses the substantial threat of a discharge of oil, into or upon the navigable waters or adjoining shorelines or the exclusive economic zone is liable for the removal costs and damages specified in subsection (b) of this section that result from such incident. "
http://www.access.gpo.gov/uscode/title3
Any company that decides to transport oil through American waters also takes on responsibility for that product and the potential damage it can cause in the event of an incident.
California Dept. of Fish and Game has information for citizens who would like to Volunteer for wildlife recovery efforts:
Clean-Up:
www.OWCN.org
800-228-4544
Report oiled wildlife:
877-823-6926
Report oil sightings:
985-781-0804
As of the print deadline for this article, this author has been unable to locate specific legislation detailing the designated routes Oil Tankers are allowed to travel while in United States waters. If readers have access to this information, please email to: morrison@powersandmorrison.com
It makes Zero sense to route oil tankers through areas home to abundant wildlife. Those in the Bay area and residents of other coastal communities should contact their local state legislative representatives, and those in the federal congress to lodge complaints.
The Exxon Valdez spill (1989) was primarily responsible for the drafting of the Oil Pollution Act of 1990. (Information on this law can be found through the EPA at: http://www.epa.gov/oilspill/opaover.h
In the wake of this recent disaster in Northern California, the Federal Government should now be pressed to take further action.
On U.S. highways, toll-roads and State Highways, there exist certain laws designating what sort of cargo can be transported where. Our sea-ways are no less important, and are no less susceptible to damage done by spilled pollutants. It is the responsibility of our government to establish legislation that will hold private companies to the standards required. If a private corporation decides to process and ship oil, let it be known that in order to do so the requirements are stringent. Let's not stop with double hulls, we need to designate sea-lanes for oil transportation that is suitably removed from major wildlife and population centers. If it doesn't make any sense to allow dangerous chemicals to be transported by truck through major cities, than it follows that shipping dangerous chemicals by boat through these same areas is also a major hazard.
-Nathan Morrison is a Political News Columnist for Powers&Morrison.com
For further information on this or any article printed herein, please contact Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com, or refer to the source cited within the article.
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Nov. 6th, 2007
02:39 pm - The News Of My Internet Death Has Been Greatly Exaggerated
November 6th, 2007 2:45PM California Time
Ladies and Gentlemen, I'm pleased to report that after a 13 week hiatus, I'm back online and as fiesty as ever.
The Fires that swept through Southern California recently came within 500 yards of my office (Santa Monica) and within 3 miles of my parents residence (San Diego). All of us are okay, thankfully. Many thanks to the courageous firefighters and firebombers from across the nation.
I'll be posting again on a weekly basis, readers can expect new entries every Friday starting this Friday November the 9th.
I've also recently met with Powers, and rumor has it he will be back shortly also. He has big news, but I'll let him share it.
Thanks to all of you who kept me up to date during my online absence. It's good to be back.
-Morrison
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Aug. 1st, 2007
11:05 am
August 1st, 2007, 11:00 AM PST
As most of you have now heard, the Senate is finally taking action against current Attorney General Alberto Gonzales. Impeachment proceedings (long overdue) are now underway. Gonzales's lies are on the public record. It is high time for the public to see justice done.
On to more personal news, in my recent photojournalism escapades, I've currently got a really neat pic entered into a contest at Picture.com.
Rate my photo, Click here
You can also visit the page directly for a better look here:
http://www.picture.com/voteforme/photov
If you like the pic, show it some love by casting a vote!
Feedback is also more than welcome, I learn by doing!
Talk to you all soon...
-Morrison
May. 26th, 2007
05:18 pm - Step Into My World
May 26th, 2007 5:25PM PST
While it is true that I've been offline a lot recently, I certainly have not been inactive. One of the best things about being able to unplug for a little while, is the opportunity to reconnect with nature.
The above photo was taken at dusk over Phoenix Lake, here in the Sierra Nevadas. It, and a number of other photos are now available for viewing at my new photo site on Flickr. The link is:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ntpix/
Within a week or so, this site will be fully active, and within the next month a custom site will launch, to display the sets.
I hope you all enjoy a little peak into my world of photography.
I'll be back in the realm of politics in early June, with an article on the actions of the current Congress.
-Morrison
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May. 21st, 2007
06:22 pm - Powers Takes The ForeFront
May 21st, 2007 6:24PM PST
Ladies and Gentlemen, I apologize for my continuing absence.
I would like to formally announce that Thompson Powers will be primarily heading up the site while my services are needed elsewhere.
Powers and I started this site together, and have continued to grow the organization as a team. Many of you have come to know me on a more personal level, as Powers was not in a position to spend as much time in the chat rooms, etc. I just wanted to pop in for a moment to encourage all of you to take the time to get to know him now that our positions have reversed.
I miss the site terribly, and now understand how he must have felt, being away from the day to day action and away from my newsdesk has been very frustrating at times. I'll hear a story on the radio and want to do an entire article on it, but without the time for proper research and investigation I'm only able to bring you my opinion.
I will be back writing on a more frequent basis soon. I'll also soon be releasing the link to my new photo site, which is currently under construction. In developing my skill set, photography has always lagged behind. I've taken the opportunity to correct this over the past month, and am very excited to share the pictures I've taken with all of you. That link should be posted here within a week or so.
So just for clarity, if you need to get in contact with someone regarding Powers&Morrison.com, please contact Thompson Powers, at:
Powers@PowersAndMorrison.com
http://www.PowersAndMorrison.com/Bl
If you need to reach me, please do so by telephone, as my internet is not what it used to be.
More soon!
-Morrison
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Apr. 14th, 2007
03:48 pm - To The Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi
April 14th, 2007 3:56PM PST
After sending you several letters attempting to persuade a change in your stance on impeachment, I'm pleased to finally be able to correspond with a message of wholehearted support for your current policies.
While many agree that impeachment and removal of the President would be the most direct route to a better path for our nation, these same patriots have always been willing to stand behind a strong legislative branch.
With your coming to power in the people's House of Representatives, many questioned whether or not you and your counterpart in the Senate, Harry Reid, would truly represent the people's clear opposition to the President's policies on; the war/occupation, the NSA Domestic Spying, the Patriot Act's executive privileges/decline in citizens' rights, the recovery effort in the gulf coast region, and many other important issues.
I'm pleased to be in a position to congratulate your actions on these fronts, taken on behalf of the people. From the 'First Hundred Hours' agenda and on, you have been on the mark. When the President and his cabinet officials have attempted to circumvent the law, you have effectively blocked them.
Further, you and Senator Reid have opened investigations into crimes committed before your tenure, such as the outing of CIA N.O.C., Valerie Plame, and her front company, Brewster Jennings, and the firings of Carol Lam and at least 7 other U.S. Prosecutors for political gain.
Speaker Pelosi, do not waver in your defense of the constitution, and of the people for whom it stands. We are behind you.
-Nathan Morrison
Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com
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Mar. 31st, 2007
11:36 am - A Letter To The President...
March 31st, 2007 12:04PM PST
Image Credit: http://grace.evergreen.edu
Mr. President,
It is apparent to the public that you are unwilling to fulfill the obligations your post requires, namely representing the citizens will. Whether or not we move to impeach you, there is something that you need to hear. Someone needs to drop the bullshit, and tell you point blank the way that you are perceived in the public eye.
You are irrelevant, Mr. President. We, the people, have already seen to it, by electing a Democrat Majority in both houses of Congress, that the remainder of your Presidency will be served as a lame duck, unable to influence and promote legislation that financially disables our nations' economy. No longer will the people tolerate your assumed 'mandates', nor will we tolerate the continued sacrifice of any Constitutionally insured liberties.
Even if we allow you to serve out your last term, Mr. President, your policies of corruption and deceit are being undone this very minute, with new legislation. Already your pathetic 'Patriot Act' has failed the test of time. On it's first trial run, the Congress saw fit to remove the extra power it had bestowed upon you. You and your administration officials abused not only that, but the trust of the nation. We will not forget, Mr. President, the lies that came directly from your mouth to us on National Television.
Your Presidency will most assuredly be remembered as one of the worst in American History. I do not say this without cause, but for the following reasons;
1) New Orleans, and much of surrounding Louisisana and Mississippi are in complete disarray. The epic hurricanes that pounded the region destroyed much of the infrastructure, but the city itself was flooded by the failing of the levees. This was a failure in judgment amongst the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers. Mr. President, you are responsible, as all Presidents before you have been, for providing the federal aid and disaster relief appropriate to the region's need. We as citizens have done our part by paying our tax dollars. We expected the priority in the spending of those dollars to be apportioned for this region, and not on further 'defense' spending to be directed towards your war endeavors. You have failed this region, and America, by allowing the gulf coast to remain in such a state.
2) Your Presidency has never been Constitutionally Legitimate. You have never won the popular vote, nor have your poll numbers exceeded the low 40's at any time other than (conveniently)the election cycle. The Constitution is clear on the holding of elections. It spells out the process, and nowhere within the process is the Supreme Court involved. What made you think you could sue in an American court of law to stop the counting of American votes cast in a Presidential Election? What made you think that we, the people, would forget such an egregious act?
3) To this day, your administration officials are illegally imprisoning reporters, simply for investigating corruption within your department. Further, you have imprisoned reporters in violation of the first amendment of the Constitution itself.
4) To this day, your administration officials, under direct order from yourself, are eavesdropping on the day to day communications of American citizens without an authorized warrant. This is not only an illegal act, but a betrayal of trust. You have taken what Nixon did to a small group of Democrats, and magnified the crime a thousand fold to encompass citizens across this nation whose political views you do not share. Nothing could be more American than using political office to stifle dissent.
5) You lied in your state of the Union Address, when you referenced British Intelligence claiming that Sadaam Hussein was seeking yellowcake uranium from Niger. You knew that intelligence was bad. The American public now knows that you and Vice President Dick Cheney ordered the CIA to check out the British intelligence. The CIA appointed, among others, U.S. Ambassador Joseph Wilson to personally investigate the claims. We know that you were aware of his findings, and of the supporting findings from at least two other independent reports. We know that you were aware that the documents purported by British Intelligence to show Iraq's interest in the yellowcake were forged. It was an obvious forgery, listing signatories that had not held Iraqi office in years. Knowing that there was absolutely no tangible evidence that Iraq was seeking weapons of mass destruction, you lied to the American people, and claimed that you KNEW, personally, that Sadaam was indeed trying to obtain these weapons.
6) When Ambassador Wilson came forward with the results of his mission, instead of coming clean with the American people, you compounded your lie, and dug in your heels. The American people saw this, and will not forget. You in fact attempted to silence Wilson, and others like him with the courage to tell the public the truth, when you deliberately ordered the outing of Valerie Plame-Wilson, his wife, who worked in a Non Official Cover (N.O.C.) status for the CIA. This act was illegal according to several federal laws, notable amongst them are 50 USC Sec 435, and the United States Constitution itself. Further it was an act of treason, that resulted in the further outing of Plame's CIA front company, Brewster Jennings. This action endangered countless lives all over the world, both American and foreign. This action directly inhibited the ability of the United States to gather valid intelligence on the sales of uranium in the middle east, at a time when the clear interest of not only Americans, but citizens across the globe is sharply focused on these issues. This was a clear act of treason against the United States, conducted by your closest staff members, and authorized by yourself, in your own words.
7) Your 'No Child Left Behind' Act has decimated our schools. Spend five minutes with any teacher in America, you do not have to take my word for it. Our nation's children deserve better. Classes are overfilled, teachers are overworked, and the equipment we've provided for them is inadequate. Further, our children deserve the specialized instruction their teachers want to provide. In the next incarnation of our nation's President, we want a new plan. Citizens have already begun to debate the best ways to fix your broken system after you have left office. We will hold your successor to these standards, and will continue to block your attempts to curtail spending on our schools throughout the remainder of your term.
8) In the six plus years now that the Citizens of this land have been demanding a move towards Universal Healthcare, you have failed to act. Privatization is a scheme we know too well after your escapades with private contractors in Iraq. Nobody is buying your line that privatization of our healthcare system will benefit the people. In fact, not only have we learned that trick, we can accurately pronounce the phrase to you, 'Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me...'. Seriously, Mr. President, there are American second graders that outperform you on the daily. History will remember that you said no to the sick of this land. History will remember that you diverted all of your military funds to war, instead of designating the proper portion to care for our sick and injured upon their return from war. History will remember your ineptness, and it's criminality, when it reflects upon the recent treatment of our soldiers at Walter Reed. History will remember that for six years, while the nation's citizens and businesses begged for Healthcare Standards and Provision, you continued to press legislation on behalf of lobbyists for a select few large pharmaceutical corporations. History will remember your ridiculous religious stance on Stem Cell Research, and appropriately laugh at our entire generation for paying your ideas heed.
9) In response to the events of 9/11, you cowered on national television, before immediately ordering the evacuation of the Saudi Royal Family from their various vacation spots in the States. You made this your priority, as thousands were dying, and airline traffic across the country was completely shut down. You then fought an independent congressionally appointed investigation into the events of that day, and to this day have provided absolutely no evidence to back up your claims of what occurred. You sicken us, Mr. President, and we as citizens are counting the seconds until you are replaced. Know full well that when you are replaced, the people will continue to press the Congress, and your successor for independent investigations into this attack. We will have our answers, and we will learn the truth behind the events of that day. We hold you personally responsible for the fact that we don't have these answers now.
On every issue, you have been completely and utterly in the wrong, since your first day in office. You have, time after time, made the choice to exploit the American people in favor of the wealthiest 10 percent of our citizens who happen to vote for the G.O.P.
I hope you enjoyed your time in the spotlight, Mr. Bush. As of last November, when it finally came time for the citizens of this country to speak, you have become but a placeholder, ineffective and irrelevant, until it comes time for the people to speak again.
-Nathan Morrison, American Citizen, and Journalist
Nathan Morrison is a political news columnist for Powers&Morrison.com
for further information on this or any article printed herein, please contact:
Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com
http://www.libertyinchaos.powersandmorr
________________________________________
Mar. 28th, 2007
12:38 pm - Morrison Update
March 28th, 2007 12:52 PM PST
I'll try to explain this as quickly as possible, as I'm certain that computer issues don't make for the most entertaining read.
I've arrived in the Sierra Nevadas, and have begun rehearsals for my next show. Upon my arrival, I set up my office here, to find that both of my computers were acting up.
On my PC, my freshly reloaded copy of Windows XP (which I purchased years ago) refuses to register online, since I'm only able to locate 2 of the 3 access codes. Apparently, one was on the CD Case (found it) one was on the CD itself (found it) and the final one was supposed to either be on the Box the software came in, or on the PC itself. That box is LONG gone, as I store all of my software cd's in a booklet. The PC shell has changed several times over the years since the purchase.
So that machine is refusing to even load, and for the time being is out of commission.
My laptop is up and running again, however upon my arrival it wouldn't even start. The problem turned out to be the battery, which I'll be replacing soon. For the meantime the machine works without the battery, using outlet power.
So long story short, I'm finally capable of posting again, and I apologize for the delay.
I'll be back into the political mix later this week. Keep those emails coming, I'm catching up on my inbox, and will be able to respond to everyone within the next few days :)
-Morrison
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Mar. 21st, 2007
01:49 pm - On The Road...
March 21st, 2007
I'll be out of the office for the next few days, as I move up north to set up at our new location in the Sierra Nevadas.
Powers is a week ahead of me setting up the Midwest office, so I've got some catching up to do :)
I should be online by this weekend, and will post again when I've set up my Wireless.
Soon to come, my report on this week's Peace Vigils from across the globe, including live footage from the Oceanside Vigil.
Also of note, P&M has updated our Headlines page. The most recent headline from each of our writers has now been combined into a live stream. You can check out what's current online, at:
http://www.powersandmorrison.com/featur
The stream is available for Podcasting and RSS feeds, and is set up to offer email updates on breaking headlines.
More to come next week.
-Nathan Morrison is a political news columnist for Powers&Morrison.com
For further information on this or any article printed herein, please contact: Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com
http://www.libertyinchaos.powersandmorr
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Mar. 17th, 2007
03:16 pm - Is Pelosi Impeding Impeachment Proceedings In The House?
March 17th, 2007, 4:02PM PST
Image Credit: http://www.ruggedelegantliving.com
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, is on the record stating, 'Impeachment is off the table..." circa May 2006.
In light of the myriad allegations of criminal actions taken by the Bush Administration, coming to light in the Mainstream Press this past week, perhaps it is time for Ms. Pelosi to re-examine her position on this issue, in consideration of justice on behalf of her constituents.
Image Credit: http://www.peoples-activist-cafe.in
On March 15th, Dennis Kucinich made the following public statement on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives.
Originally published:
http://www.freepress.org/departments/di
"This House cannot avoid its Constitutionally authorized responsibility to restrain the abuse of Executive power.
The Administration has been preparing for an aggressive war against Iran. There is no solid, direct evidence that Iran has the intention of attacking the United States or its allies.
The US is a signatory to the UN Charter, a constituent treaty among the nations of the world. Article II, Section 4 of the UN Charter states, "all members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state. . ." Even the threat of a war of aggression is illegal.
Article VI of the US Constitution makes such treaties the Supreme Law of the Land. This Administration, has openly threatened aggression against Iran in violation of the US Constitution and the UN Charter.
This week the House Appropriations committee removed language from the Iraq war funding bill requiring the Administration, under Article 1, Section 8, Clause 11 of the Constitution, to seek permission before it launched an attack against Iran.
Since war with Iran is an option of this Administration and since such war is patently illegal, then impeachment may well be the only remedy which remains to stop a war of aggression against Iran."
For further information from Kucinich, go here:
http://www.kucinich.us
Image Credit: http://marisacat.wordpress.com
There can be no doubt that Nancy Pelosi is fully aware of the growing push for impeachment, now evident within the U.S. House for various causes. Not only is Kucinich pushing the pre-emptive war issue with regard to Iran, several investigations are currently underway in the House that may well expose evidence of illegal actions taken by the President and Vice President. The testimony of Valerie Plame-Wilson yesterday in the House is one such example.
Pelosi, however, has at this point refrained from comment, ever since her public statement last year where she stated that, 'Impeachment is off the table at this time..."
The original article from my column at P&M, which details Pelosi's response is available in it's print version here:
http://libertyinchaos.livejournal.com/7
Also at the time, several other journalists put out similar articles, aimed at the lack of coverage in the mainstream media.
Impeachment Not on Media Radar, by Dave Lindorff
Originally published:
http://www.fair.org/index.php?page=2
"There is a growing grassroots campaign demanding the impeachment of George W. Bush. Across the nation, towns and cities have been passing pro-impeachment resolutions. Websites promoting impeachment keep springing up. In several states, bills have been introduced in state legislatures that, if passed, would become formal bills of impeachment in the U.S. House of Representatives, requiring initiation of impeachment hearings under congressional rules dating back to the early 19th century."
Dave goes on to outline some of the Bush Administration's major offenses while in office,
"Bush, in contrast, has admitted to ordering the National Security Agency to monitor Americans' telecommunications without a warrant, in clear violation of the 1978 Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (New York Times, 12/16/05). Beyond that, documents show he okayed torture of captives in the Afghanistan and Iraq wars, contravening the Third Geneva Accord on treatment of prisoners of war, an international accord that was long ago adopted as U.S. law (Human Rights Watch, "Background Paper on Geneva Conventions and Persons Held by U.S. Forces," 1/29/02). Bush has blatantly subverted the Constitution by claiming the right to ignore (so far) 750 acts duly passed by Congress (Boston Globe, 4/30/06). He has defied the courts in revoking the most basic rights of citizenship-the right to be charged and tried in a court of law (Guardian, 12/5/02). And the evidence is overwhelming that he knowingly lied about the threat posed by Saddam Hussein, and about Hussein's alleged link to Al-Qaeda, in order to win public and congressional approval for his invasion of Iraq (Center for American Progress, "Claims vs. Facts: Iraq/Al-Qaeda Connections")."
The main thrust of Dave's article illustrates the mainstream media's lack of attention to these important facts, however his review of these crimes (published in July of '06) is highly pertinent today when taken in conjunction with the current scandals of the Bush Administration, namely the firing of 8 U.S. Attorneys and the Outing of Valerie Plame-Wilson and her CIA front operation, Brewster Jennings.
Image Credit: http://www.theodoresworld.net
This past week, while committee hearings and investigations began into both aforementioned scandals in the U.S. House, citizens across the nation added their voice of approval, staging demonstrations for impeachment and an end to the occupation of Iraq.
In San Francisco and in Washington D.C., Citizen Advocacy Group, Code Pink, held demonstrations aimed towards current Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi.
Details of the Code Pink protests can be found here:
http://www.codepink4peace.org/
The Senate also appears ready to take part in the investigations.
http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/03/1
Citizens who are not constituents of Ms Pelosi's Congressional District can make their voices known on national matters such as these, by emailing Speaker Pelosi at: americanvoices@mail.house.gov
One such letter, made public here at P&M, was written by P&M San Francisco Correspondent, Corey Ciofalo. It can be found here: http://ccgandrt.livejournal.com/4384.ht
Image Credit: http://www.smh.com.au
The protests continue this weekend, on an international scale.
Here in America, the Christian Community has organized a powerful demonstration in D.C.
http://freeinternetpress.com/story.p
As far away as Australia, demonstrators are in the streets: http://www.smh.com.au/news/national/pro
Here in Southern California, there is an event today in San Diego.
Saturday, March 17th
11:45AM -- 5:30 PM
Coaster - Oceanside Transit Center, 195 S. Tremont Street, Oceanside, CA 92054
Calling all North County activists to join with NCCPJ to take the 11:52 AM Peace Train (Coaster) from Oceanside (or other stops along the way).
Destination - San Diego Stop the War Rally. We will march from the Santa Fe train station to Pantoja Park (on G Street between State & Kettner). Those who wish to be part of a march through the Gaslamp District can walk to Horton Plaza instead (W. Broadway & 1st Ave.) to join that group.
There is also a Peace Vigil Monday Night, also organized by Jeeni Criscenzo, and NCCPJ, up in Oceanside.
Monday, March 19th
6:00:00 PM -- 8:00:00 PM
Oceanside Pier on the Beach, Pier View Way and Pacific Street, Oceanside, CA 92054
Map: Click Here
Vigil for peace on the beach. Bring candles. If you can help to set up the paper-bag luminaries, come at 5:030 PM. Please sign up at Move-On.
I will do my best to attend the Oceanside Peace Vigil.
Image Credit: http://www.inthesetimes.com
Nancy Pelosi, the time is now to either call the topic of impeachment to the attention of the House floor, or to explain to the American public why you are unwilling to do so.
The American public deserves to understand what is happening in the Congress, and what ramifications the Constitution details. It is your responsibility as House Speaker, to act on these issues.
-Nathan Morrison is a political news columnist for Powers&Morrison.com
For further information on this or any article printed herein, please contact: Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com
http://www.libertyinchaos.powersandmorr
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Mar. 10th, 2007
08:27 pm - On The Un-Indicted Co-Conspirators of Convicted Felon, Lewis 'Scooter' Libby...
March 10th, 2007, 8:45PM PST
Pictured: Lewis 'Scooter' Libby
Image Credit: http://www.mindfully.org
The BackStory...
So what happened in short is this:
1) The Bush Administration made the case for the Iraq War largely based upon the threat of nuclear weapons 'known to the Administration' as being actively sought by then President of Iraq and one time CIA Asset, Sadaam Hussein.
2) U.S. Ambassador Joseph Wilson, having diplomatic connections with the current administration in Niger (where Sadaam was allegedly seeking uranium yellowcake) was dispatched by the CIA on orders from the White House, to investigate the alleged transaction.
3) Joseph Wilson returned findings (congruent with 2 other reports on the same topic by equally qualified officially sanctioned U.S. investigators) that the meeting probably took place, but that nothing was sold and no further meetings or transactions took place, and that Niger's Uranium Mines were in accordance with international law as far as selling nuclear materials to Iraq.
4) President Bush lied knowingly in his State of the Union Address in 2003, stating the now infamous '16 words':
"The British government has learned that Saddam Hussein recently sought significant quantities of uranium from Africa."
5) Joseph Wilson, knowing Bush's statement to be false, wrote an Op-Ed piece for the New York Times, refuting Bush's claim, and providing the public at large with the information that Sadaam Hussein had not purchased uranium from Africa.
6) In clear retaliation to Wilson's Editorial, (now evident testimony obtained during Lewis Libby's Perjury Trial) officials within the Bush Administration sent a cold, clear, and highly illegal message to Joseph Wilson and anyone else who dared to provide facts to the public that countered their buildup to war. That message came in the form of an order by Vice President Dick Cheney, authorized by President George W. Bush. The order was to leak the identity of Wilson's wife, known to the Administration to be a NOC (Non Official Cover) CIA Operative working on weapons of mass destruction in and around Iran. Wilson's wife's name, Valerie Plame,and covert identity then became known to the public.The order was carried out by the top aides to the President and Vice President, those being Karl Rove and Lewis 'Scooter' Libby.
7) As of the conviction of Lewis Libby, the information is now in the public domain, that Karl Rove and Lewis Libby did in fact carry out this order, leaking Plame's name to several news institutions, including but not limited to The New York Times and The Washington Post.
Pictured: Vice President Dick Cheney
Image Credit: Getty Images
We know that the order was given by Cheney, from handwritten notes Cheney wrote to Libby, exposed here: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/12774274/si
The order was illegal, and so was carrying it out. It was illegal on several counts.
1) It was an act of Treason to reveal the identity of an active covert agent for the United States of America, and thereby expose their CIA Front Operation, Brewster Jennings.
2) It was a violation of the Intelligence Identities Act to reveal Plame's Identity before the information had been declassified by the President.
3) MOST IMPORTANTLY in terms of this particular article: It was a violation of 50 USC Sec 435 to provide Plame's identity to the press. This is a federal law, a felony count, and a law specifically written (post Nixon) to curtail political use of declassification and classification by the White House. It applies specifically to all Federal Employees, and specifically to the Executive Branch. Executive Orders do not cancel this law out, they may work within the law, if in accordance with the law.
This article does not attempt to prove the crime of 'Treason' or a violation of the 'Intelligence Identities Act' otherwise known as ' TITLE 50-CHAPTER 15-SUBCHAPTER IV Sec. 421'. This author feels both of those crimes are provable, and cases should be made on both counts against those in the Bush Administration guilty of leaking the covert identity of Valerie Plame-Wilson. This article however will focus specifically on Federal Law 50 USC Sec 435, as conviction of this felony count on it's own would accomplish the removal of the guilty parties from Government Office.
Pictured: Non Official Cover Agent for the CIA, Valerie Plame-Wilson
Image Credit: http://www.hongpong.com
The TimeLine...
For a very complete Timeline of the now infamous 'Plame Affair', go here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plame_affa
Here are some of the important dates in this case from that source, these dates outline who specifically leaked Plame's identity to the press, and who in the press (under sworn testimony) received and/or printed the leak.
Important to note, that according to 50 USC Sec 435, the press has not violated the law by reporting the information, however the person(s) who revealed the information is/are in violation.
12 June 2003: During a telephone call, Cheney told Libby that Wilson's wife worked in Counter Proliferation.
7 July 2003: Colin Powell receives a copy of a 10 June memo naming Valerie Wilson as Joe Wilson's wife and as a CIA officer, taking it with him on a trip on Air Force One with President Bush. The paragraph identifying Mrs. Wilson is marked "(S-NF)," signifying its information is classified "Secret, Noforn." Noforn is a code word indicating that the information is not to be shared with foreign nationals. Condoleezza Rice, Colin Powell, Ari Fleischer, Walter H. Kansteiner, III, and Andrew Card are on the trip, among others.
Sometime before 8 July 2003 Robert Novak has a conversation with Richard Armitage (Deputy Assistant Secretary of State). In that conversation he is told for the first time that Wilson's wife works for the C.I.A. [Armitage didn't tell Novak her name; subsequently, after his August 2006 public disclosure that he was the "inadvertent" leak, Armitage has asserted that he did not know her name at the time.] Novak uses an edition of Joseph C. Wilson's biography in Who's Who to identify Wilson's wife by her maiden name, Valerie Plame. According to the reporters Isikoff and Corn, Armitage's leak was "inadvertent, and the Intelligence Identities Act hadn't been violated."
Notice that no mention is made to the violation of Federal Law, 50 USC Sec 435, conviction of which (A Felony) would result in (among other things) removal from office...
8 July 2003: Robert Novak has a phone conversation with Karl Rove in which C.I.A. agent Plame is discussed, according to an unnamed source who had been told not to talk about the case. Novak is reported to have told Rove the name of the agent as "Valerie Plame" and her role in Wilson's mission to Africa. Rove is reported to have told Novak something to the effect of, "I heard that, too." or "Oh, so you already know about it." Rove reportedly told the grand jury that at this time he had already heard about Wilson's wife working for the CIA from another journalist, but is unable to remember who that was.
8 July 2003: Lewis Libby meets with Judith Miller and tells her about Plame's work at the CIA.
10 July 2003-11 July 2003: Novak called Bill Harlow, then CIA spokesman, to confirm information regarding Plame and Wilson...According to Harlow, he "warned Novak in the strongest terms he was permitted to use without revealing classified information," that Wilson's wife had not authorized the mission and that if Novak did write about it, her name should not be revealed.
11 July 2003: Matt Cooper's internal Time e-mail message bearing the time 11:07 a.m. is sent to his bureau chief, confirming his conversation with Karl Rove regarding Plame's Classified Status.
12 July 2003: Washington Post reporter Walter Pincus says an administration official told him, somewhat off topic, that Joseph Wilson's wife was a CIA analyst working on weapons of mass destruction...
Pictured: Patrick Fitzgerald
Image Credit: http://www.firedoglake.com
All of these facts and many more were brought to light during Special Prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald's initial investigation of the leak of Plame's Identity, and the subsequent Perjury and Obstruction of Justice (among other charges) trial of Lewis Libby. This evidence belongs to the American people, and is there but for the asking of Congress. Patrick Fitzgerald stated in a press interview the day of the conviction, that he would be willing to testify before Congress and provide information obtained during his investigation and trial.
Let's not forget why Fitzgerald was assigned, to find out who leaked Plame's Identity, and to bring those individuals to justice.
The initial investigation into this crime, was derailed by Libby, who perjured himself (possibly on purpose) in order to avoid directly testifying to having direct orders from Cheney to leak the identity of Plame. This investigation has not been fully concluded in the eyes of the people, as no charges have been filed to date.
The Perjury Trial succeeded in exposing the evidence Fitzgerald needed, that Cheney (with Authorization from the President, as admitted on national television when he admitted to 'declassifying' Plame's identity) did in fact order the leak. The trial also succeeded in a conviction of Libby, on counts including Perjury and Obstruction of Justice, both of which he committed in order to derail the initial investigation.
This is where we stand today. The evidence has been exposed in testimony before a federally convened grand jury. The Congress now has the power to officially expose that evidence, and it is up to the people to see that the Congress does it's job by bringing these criminals to justice.
Pictured: U.S. Representative Henry Waxman, Chairman of the U.S. House Oversight Committee, which will be holding hearings on the Plame leak this coming week.
Image Credit: http://www.hillnews.com
The Law, once again, is: 50 USC Sec 435. The Congress should also investigate charges of violation of the Intelligence Identities Act, and Treason against the United States of America. But the evidence for the first charge is clearly laid out herein, and felony convictions on this charge are the clear choice for the Congress in the months ahead according to this author.
Joseph Wilson and Valerie Plame, remarkably one day after being sent 50 USC Sec 435 and the publishing of my original July 12th, 2006 article on the case, filed Civil Suit against the Bush, Cheney, Rove and Libby, this case is pending, and can be followed at this site: http://www.wilsonsupport.org
My original article can be found here:
http://ezinearticles.com/?I-Learned-Som
Congress can now subpoena Fitzgerald's testimony and notes to proceed with the impeachment of Cheney, Bush, and Rove. Here's how that is getting started.
From TruthOut.org:
Congressman Henry Waxman, chairman of the House Oversight Committee, said Thursday he wants Special Prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald to testify before his committee about his investigation into the leak of covert CIA operative Valerie Plame-Wilson's identity. Plame-Wilson, Waxman's office said, has agreed to testify before Congress on March 16.
Or you can get the full story from Waxman's website:
http://oversight.house.gov/story.as
Pictured: The Alleged Conspirators Gather...
Image Credit: http://www.infowars.net
The Un-Indicted Co-Conspirators of Lewis Libby are known to be:
President George W. Bush
Vice President Dick Cheney
Karl Rove
Lewis Libby
Dick Armitage
There may be further Co-Conspirators in this clear knowing violation of several federal laws.
Let it be known that the people of the United States of America demand accountability for these crimes and others, as mandated in the Congressional Election of November 2006. Our Representatives in the Congress have a responsibility to investigate these crimes, and to bring proceedings and charges against those involved.
"The President of the United States would be liable to be impeached, tried, and upon conviction of treason, bribery, or other high crimes and misdemeanors, removed from office; and would afterwards be liable to prosecution and punishment in the ordinary course of law." - 1st U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, and Founding Father of The United States of America, Alexander Hamilton
High Crimes are otherwise known today as Felonies, and violating 50 USC Sec 435 is certainly a federal offense, and an act of Treason.
-Nathan Morrison is a political news columnist for Powers&Morrison.com
For further information on this or any article printed herein, please contact: Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com
http://www.libertyinchaos.powersandmorr
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Mar. 6th, 2007
06:57 pm - High Marks For Sierra Repertory Theatre...
March 6th, 2007 8:19PM PST
I just returned from a weekend trip to Sonora California, where I met with one of my former Directors and Producers, Scott Viets of Sierra Repertory Theatre.
Scott, and Producer Dennis Jones and I discussed their upcoming season, and I agreed to return for at least one more show at SRT this year. That show will be 'The Best Little Whorehouse In Texas', starring Becky Saunders, and will open in April.
While in town, I took the opportunity to sit in on SRT's current shows, and I was more than pleased. On Friday evening, after a full day of filming shots for P&M's Video Project, I drove out to Columbia, California (about a 5-10 minute drive from downtown Sonora) to see 'A Perfect Wedding' at the historic Fallon House Theatre.
'A Perfect Wedding' is a wedding farce, no doubt about it. But let me stop you right there. Other than it's basic format, the show runs nothing like any wedding farce I've seen.
This production runs more like an episode of Friends, or Seinfeld. I heard an audience member mention Three's Company, a fair comparison to be sure.
The set is absolutely incredible. Excellent use is made of all of the available space on stage, and the set even extends to small nooks on each side, where the actors come within an arm's length of the audience during the performance. The ceiling of the set reflects the division of the rooms perfectly clearly, without need for further representation of where the 'walls' actually are. The audience makes the distinction easily and follows the action from room to room.
I was especially impressed with the comedic style of Dustin Tucker, who played 'Tom'. A veteran of the New York Stage, his character work brought his character to life, easily stealing the show.
Kate Hollinshead also gave an especially strong performance, as 'Judy', not to be confused with 'Julie'... who is really the main character of the story as the thread of confusion develops, and is the only character in the show with all of the 'answers' at the bottom of the plot.
I won't spoil it for you, so I'll go no further. This show is not to be missed. The entire cast is very solid and extremely well suited for their respective roles. They each carry the plot forward in a completely convincing manner.
I've got to give special mention though, to Matt Czernobil, who plays the role of 'Bill'.
'A Perfect Wedding' is Matt's first straight play (drama, not a musical or opera) and he gave a terrific performance. Matt and I worked together years ago in West Side Story, where he played the role of 'Riff'. A talented musician in his own right, Matt is an accomplished guitarist and lyricist. He's proven in this show that his acting stands on it's own as well.
The following evening I headed over to the mainstage theatre for their musical production of 'Thoroughly Modern Millie'.
Well, to put it shortly, the music is still stuck in my head. And I'm even still enjoying it :)
Granted, the show borrows several standards and incorporates them into the plotline in often hilarious ways, but the original music from Millie is very catchy too.
Laura E. Taylor absolutely killed last Saturday. From the show's opening moments, from the first time she sang, I could tell I was in for a treat. 'Millie' starts out as a shy girl from Kansas with big city dreams and a motto of being 'modern', (or marrying for money over love). But before too long out of Ms. Taylor comes an amazingly powerful voice and personality, and just as the opening number has finished, the audience IS Millie, on her adventure, and ready to roll. Laura goes on to tap dance all over the stage, including desks and window ledges, and gives a 'thoroughly' astounding overall performance in a role well cast.
Also tearing up the stage was one of my all time favorite actors, John C. Brown. I've been working on and off with John since the summer of 2000, and each time I see him on stage I'm more impressed. John plays 'Jimmy', who eventually wins Millie's heart. Annie Brown is a featured dancer in 'Millie', so you fans of the Browns shouldn't miss seeing them both in one show!
Also of note, Elizabeth Murff returns to play 'Mrs. Mears' and turns out a very funny performance. Arthur Kwan and Thomas Isao Morinaka were both completely convincing in their roles, and captivated the audience's attention through their use of language. When the subtitle machine didn't function at one point in the show, I had absolutely no problem following the scene between these two in a language I did not at all understand.
Jon Reinhold's comedic timing is wonderful, and with a solid cast of talented singers, his powerful voice is right at home in this show.
Returning to the Dance Corp from Hello Dolly, are Justin Weatherby, Melissa Smilow, and Cassie Nordgren. And here in the eleven o'clock hour slot of this review, a moment on Cassie Nordgren.
Not only is Ms. Nordgren dancing nightly in this show, she helped to choreograph it. A natural on stage, she has the rare ability to commit 100% to the moment. It shows in her performance, and there were at least 4 or 5 moments where without saying a word, she completely stole the show. Particularly memorable was her 'nap on the typewriter'. Hilarious.
In closing, if you haven't gone out to see theatre on stage, what are you waiting for? Never on television can you get such an experience.
If you are in Northern California, anywhere near the Yosemite area, you should really see these two shows. Make it a weekend. I'm glad I did.
-Nathan Morrison is a political news columnist for Powers&Morrison.com
For further information on this or any other article printed herein, please contact: Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com
http://www.libertyinchaos.powersandmorr
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Breaking News Alert - Scooter Libby has been convicted on 4 of 5 counts, including obstruction of justice. This story is still developing, analysis to come later this week...
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Mar. 1st, 2007
05:35 pm - P&M News Update
March 1st, 2007 6:02PM PST
A lot has been happening behind the scenes here at P&M lately, and I thought that today would be a good time to bring everyone up to speed.
Last weekend, Powers, our Editor in Chief, Claire Kennedy and I closed out the Los Angeles office. After building up a substantial correspondence base in the Los Angeles area, we decided it was time to focus on expanding to regions where P&M correspondents have yet to emerge. To this end, Powers and Claire are now in the process of moving our LA office to the midwest. More news will break on this shortly, at Powers' column, http://www.unrepresentedvoice.powersand
I'll be here in the San Diego office for the next month at least, before handing off the reigns to our San Diego Correspondent, Philip Racuel. Also look for Philip's 'Powers&Morrison Minute' soon to come on the Head On Radio Network, http://www.headonradionetwork.com
P&M San Francisco Correspondent, Cody Molica, will also be posting shortly on today's exciting news. From Cody,
"...just got back from the DCCC meeting in SF I got to speak (with others)
before the representatives of Pelosi, Feinstein and a host of other Dems who
represent the local caucus. (Pelosi and Feinstein and one other abstained but no one voted against us..."
"They unanimously approved a resolution condemning the incarceration of Josh Wolf. Furthermore they added an amendment to debunk Miss Saunders' comments from the SF Chronicle! Also today Kamala Harris the Local Elected District Attorney called for the freedom of Josh Wolf..."
Read more on this breaking story at: http://www.codymolica.powersandmorr
In New Orleans, President Bush showed up for a visit, P&M New Orleans Correspondent, George 'Loki' Williams has the story,
"We live in a devastated city and you (President Bush) are a big part of the reason why it sill sits in ruins. Your administration has abandoned our
children by savaging their public schools. Your administration has tortured our working class people by refusing to reopen the city's public housing developments. And your administration is fully complicit in placing our uninsured in harms way by ruthlessly pursuing the privatization of local public healthcare in the aftermath of Katrina. And, finally your administration is guilty of sending our sons and daughters of to war for oil and empire just when we need them most to help us rebuild our community. Mr. President, we, Katrina Survivors all, do not welcome you to our city, we rebuke you!"
Read his original post for the full story, at:
http://www.newsfromthehumidcity.powersa
And finally, P&M Correspondent, Jeeni Criscenzo has a report from the protest held this past week in Carlsbad,
"Some days I just feel so tired. Down past my bones to my soul - tired. It's too hard to even feel hopeful -tired. Don't know what to do next and don't have the energy to think about it - tired. It's not despair, or depression, or giving up. It's just a plain ole' deep down weariness that comes when we go too long without something positive to celebrate.
That's the kind of tired I felt on the morning of Feb. 19th when I arrived at the location in Carlsbad where we were going to hold the Bring Their Buddies Home Vigil. It was 8:30 AM and in the few minutes before the volunteers began arriving, it was almost everything I could do just to keep a grip on my umbrella against the wind-whipped rain. I tried to encase the box that held the three thousand memorial pages in a large plastic bag while jostling with an umbrella that was quickly becoming a tangle of metal and nylon. I murmured a string of questions to a God who, at that moment, seemed to be working for the other side: What the hell am I doing here? What if no one shows up? I planned this for months, why couldn't You just give me a couple hours of decent weather? Why is everything always so damn difficult all the time?
The wind tore back the plastic and cover off the box of memorial pages and I let go of my useless umbrella to hold my body protectively over the sheets of paper that our participants would wear pinned to their shirts, each bearing the name and information of one of the U.S. troops who had died in Iraq. On the top of the pile a page read: In Memory of Zachariah W. L., Age 20, Milton, PA, Specialist, U.S. Army, Died 5/30/2003.
Zachariah. An uncommon name... Biblical. I wondered if his mother had called him Zachariah, or Zachary or Zack? When he was growing up, I imagined that, like most mothers, she probably called him by his full name, including whatever his middle and last initial stood for, when she was scolding him. She probably had an endearing nickname for him when he was doing something good. What name did she cry out in grief when she first learned her twenty-year old son wasn't coming home from Iraq? Twenty! Not even old enough to legally buy a beer in his small hometown in mid-PA.
I wondered how this young man with the unusual name died and if he suffered in his last minutes. I wondered what had inspired him to join the military and what he thought of a war that would take his life just 30 days after the President had officially declared the end of major combat operations under a banner that read, "Mission Accomplished".
Thinking about Zachariah replaced my feelings of weariness with a renewed focus on why I'd worked so hard to make this event happen. Real people are dying in Iraq. Not just our U.S. troops and contractors, but innocent Iraqi civilians. Real people, with names like Zack and Tom and Jeff and George. Mostly young people -- the largest type on the memorial pages was the age of the individual when they died. The numbers were heartbreaking: 19, 20, 21. few were older than 24.
Despite the awful weather, people began to arrive - first the volunteers, who did their best to set up the sign-in table. The rain abated for a while but the wind never let up and everything had to be anchored against it. People came dressed in black, with hats and coats and umbrellas. Not the thousands we had hoped for when planning the event, but a steady stream lined up to sign-in and get their memorial page. The press came too - impressed that 300 people would brave the daunting weather just to stand in silence for an hour. One lady happened by and upon learning that we were there to honor our troops, joined us as the rain picked up again.
It was telling that there wasn't a single counter-protester to mar our vigil -- a first, here in San Diego County. Was it the weather or were we successful in conveying the message that this was not a protest? Or is support for this war declining so fast that there's no one left to find fault with our vigil?
Just before the bugler played taps to mark the start of our hour of silence, I walked down the line of somber participants in this soggy vigil, offering people black plastic lawn bags to wear as makeshift rain-gear. Already the memorial pages people were wearing were soaked and starting to fall apart. People were trying to hold the melting pages together on their chests, their faces crestfallen and wet with rain and tears.
For months I'd been describing this vigil as an Act of Art, but I hadn't intended for it to be a watercolor. As I looked down the road at the line of cold, wet folks who had braved this weather to be a part of this living illustration, I was suddenly grateful for the rain. Our purpose was to illustrate the tragic cost of war and letting the viewer draw their own conclusions about our continuation in Iraq. A warm sunny day would not have conveyed our message so effectively - war is a miserable way to deal with our differences. People die. Lives are destroyed. The sons and daughters of families just like yours, who are lucky enough to come home, will be changed -- physically, emotionally and spiritually.
Someone sent me an email after the vigil, saying that if I really wanted to show my support for the troops, I should do something about the way those returning are being shortchanged by the system. That's certainly a worthy cause and the way our vets are being treated is a disgrace. But as we stand at the precipice of yet another war that's being sold to us with the same bill of goods that was used to inspire American families to offer up their children to fight and die in Iraq, I think it is equally important that we give those people a look at reality. Casualty counts are not a scorecard where whoever has the lowest tally, wins. Those numbers are real people dying, like Zachariah, whose mother's tears were pouring on our vigil in the rain.
In peace & hope,
Jeeni Criscenzo
That's all for this week, I'll be out of the office until next Tuesday, meeting with our director for the P&M Weekly Video Segments, to be released this summer.
-Nathan Morrison is a political news columnist for Powers&Morrison.com
For further information on this or any article printed herein, please contact: Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com
http://www.libertyinchaos.powersandmorr
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Feb. 19th, 2007
05:34 pm - Fragging the Troops...
February 19th, 2007 8:39PM PST
This past week I received an email from one of my primary contacts in the United States Army. At the request of this contact, their identity will remain protected, and they will be referred to as 'Army Contact'.
In the letter sent by 'Army Contact', the 'add-on' or 'Level 2' armor used to upgrade Humvees was the main topic. Recently there has been great controversy over the lack of armor on Humvees already in combat.
Instinctively, most Americans would necessarily leap to the solution that up-armoring the vehicles after market will provide the required protection.
Indeed, the 'Frag Kit 5' which is the specific package of 'add-on' or 'Level 2' armor we're discussing here, DOES do an incredible job at decreasing damage from explosives.
It does NOT, however, benefit our troops on the field in Iraq. In fact, as this article will illustrate, the Frag Kit 5 actually inhibits maneuverability, to a point of hazard.
An excerpt from 'Army Contact's' letter:
"One of you may want to look into this. http://abcnews.go.com/US/IraqCoverage/s
(There are) no pictures of the armored humvees with the new armor. Ask how well it is tested and not just for bombs but also how well does the armor stay bolted to the body of the humvee. There may be problems with the new Frag kit 5. The trucks are so heavy they are not safe to drive fast and are hard to maneuver. New York Times wants them on all humvees now, but they didn't see any army reports on how safe they are in events other than bombs. There are reports on these. Even a 15 yr old girl can see the problems with one of these going over metal speed bumps at (the local hospital)... "
I looked long and hard, and could not find a single Army Report, Spec Sheet, or Certification Standard for the Frag Kit 5 in the public domain.
These records must exist, and I'll be doing my best to locate them for a follow up article to come. There does, however, exist much data about the Frag Kit 5, if you care to glean the details from news reports, press releases, and first hand testimony.
Image Credit: http://www.arcent.army.mil
12/13/2004 - Quoted from Lieutenant General R. Steven Whitcomb, Commander Third Army "Patton's Own," and Coalition Forces Land Component Command
(We started using) "add-on kits that we might be able to produce that gave that vehicle additional protection. We call that level-two armor, and it's better known probably most places as add-on armor. It is factory produced, so it's built under controlled conditions, and then it's either -- can be put on back in the states. But we've got 10 sites here in the theater, a couple here in Kuwait, and eight sites up in Iraq itself where we can bolt on, add this armor to existing unarmored vehicles. It gives you protection front, rear and sides, glass. IT DOES NOT GIVE PROTECTION AT THE TOP OR AT THE BOTTOM OF THE VEHICLE. So it gives you better than what you have with no protection on a humvee, but not quite the level-one protection."
The Lt. General went on to state:
"The humvee was a vehicle that was NOT DESIGNED to afford armor protection, nor were most of our trucks. THEY WERE DESIGNED AS CARGO CARRIERS. The ONLY up-armored humvees, the high-end ones, we had were for our military police forces. They were not for use by -- as we see them used today with the numbers of forces... ...Add-on armoring runs anywhere from about A THOUSAND POUNDS of steel plating up to about 4,000 POUNDS of additional weight. So a lot of our vehicles, as you point out, are not designed -- their ENGINES AREN'T DESIGNED to carry perhaps an additional ton of weight, the suspension and the transmission."
-http://www.freerepublic.com
(EMPHASIS- Highlighted by the Author)
So way back in December of 2004, we had the Commander of the Coalition Forces Land Component Command openly admitting in public interviews that the Frag Kit 5 is:
1) Not comparable in effectiveness to Level 1 armor
2) Too heavy for combat operations on a standard humvee
3) Unfit for light vehicles such as humvees and other cargo carriers.
So after this information is available in the public domain, what did the Pentagon do? Why they pressed ahead with Frag Kit 5 production, and pretended that the 'protection' offered from explosives outweighed the immobility of the vehicle itself.
"Sept 26/06: O'Gara-Hess & Eisenhardt Armoring Co. (now Centigon) in Fairfield, OH received a $137.4 million modification to a firm-fixed-price contract for Frag Kit 5 Field Kits. Work will be performed in Fairfield, OH and is expected to be complete by Feb. 28, 2007.
This was a sole source contract initiated on April 10, 2000 (DAAE07-00-C-S019)."
-http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com
This information is important for two reasons. One to illustrate the prior knowledge of the system's deficiencies by the Pentagon. The second point that bears importance, is that the Pentagon awarded a SOLE SOURCE contract for this project. As the focus of this article lies with the Frag Kit itself, and not the politics of it's development, we'll leave these facts for further investigation.
Further evidence that uparmoring humvees is impractical comes from Isreal. The Isreali Army of course uses American made humvees for wartime operations throughout the middle east.
Image Credit: http://www.defense-update.com
"Unlike the US army (in) considering the vehicle mainly for utility and cross-country transportation, the Israeli Army planned more tactical roles for the Humvee, which required higher level of protection. The heavier armor protection required further automotive and structural modifications stretching these M-1113 ECV designated vehicles to their limits. However, during the Lebanon conflict and fighting urban guerrilla warfare in the occupied territories, the up-armored IDF Humvees, demonstrated their capability to withstand most types of attacks successfully....
...The latest addition to the HMMWV is the fragmentation (FRAG) protection kit #5. The kit provides added protection to the vehicle by replacing the doors and much of the side armor. The actual kit weighs about 2,200 lbs., but the overall vehicle weight is only increased by 760 lbs. Current production Humvees are sent fully armored from the factory. FRAG 5 kits are sent to the field where install teams remove the existing doors and side armor and replace them with the new kit."
-http://www.defense-update.com circa May 2004
So once again, we are now aware that the Frag Kit 5 is nothing new. It is not some miracle armor that is destined to save our troops from improvised explosives and rocket propelled grenades. It is an add-on package designed after market, and anyone who's ever done even the most basic of car repairs will know what that implies. It must surely have failed military testing on mobility standards, even if it passed on explosive yield protection, which would explain the missing reports in the public domain. It has certainly failed in combat testing in the field under the command of the Israeli Army. We're talking about the same humvees, on the same terrain, failing for the same reasons. We knew all of this in 2004.
RollerOvers, A Risk Due To Increased Weight...
Image Credit: http://images.usatoday.com
"DAYTON, Ohio - Thousands of pounds of armor added to military Humvees, intended to protect U.S. troops, have made the vehicles more difficult to control and more likely to roll over, killing and injuring soldiers in Iraq, a newspaper reported. A Dayton Daily News analysis of the Army's ground accident database, which includes records from March 2003 through November 2005, found that 60 of the 85 soldiers who died in Humvee accidents in Iraq - or 70 percent - were killed when the vehicle rolled. Of the 337 injuries, 149 occurred in rollovers. 'The whole thing is a formula for disaster,' said Scott Badenoch, a former Delphi Corp. vehicle dynamics expert in Dayton who is working with the military to design a lighter-armored vehicle to replace the Humvee. 'I believe the up-armoring has caused more deaths than it has saved'."
-http://www.navytimes.com - June 2006
So not only did the military know, even the contractors hired to develop and test the Frag Kit 5 were well aware that it was a failed system, and 'A FORMULA FOR DISASTER'.
In addition our Representatives in Congress, many of whom now trumpet the Frag Kit 5 as the 'solution' to the insurgency's improvised weapons, have also been aware for some time that this system is deeply flawed. The House Defense Appropriations SubCommitte receives regular reports on the project, and has since it's inception and initial funding stages.
Image Credit: http://www.reviewjournal.com
"The Humvee wasn't originally designed to carry all the extra weight,' said U.S. Rep. David Hobson, R-Ohio, who has monitored the armoring of the Humvee as a senior member of the House Defense Appropriations Subcommittee. 'I think this vehicle probably has too many add-ons to it, too much weight to it.'
- AP/Navy Times June 12th, 2006
As usual, internet users are ahead of the curve on the Frag Kit 5, and are already debating it's effectiveness...
"For all the focus on up armored humvees, it is a pity that there is no thought as to whether it is the vehicle we need or not...because it is not. What they aren't saying: uparmored humvees are a bad vehicle. From the individual soldier perspective, they don't care. Its something that they can ask for. The military brass knows it is a bad vehicle...that is the source of whatever slowness there is in procurement. The army doesn't really want them. Well, they half want them. They want them because it is what they can get. They don't want them because they know it is not the vehicle they need. It comes down, like many things, to politics.
First, let me explain why the M1114 (uparmored humvee) is a bad vehicle. The M998 (the basic humvee) is a very good utility vehicle. It is good for what it was designed for...as a replacement for the Jeep. It is not, and never will be a good armored vehicle. It was never meant to be. Putting a whole bunch of steel and ballistic glass on a souped up Jeep causes all sorts of problems. The vehicle is far heavier than designed...it causes excessive stress on the engine, transmission and suspension leading to frequent breakdown. The M1114 is far less reliable than the M998. And when driving through Sadr City, the last thing you want is a breakdown.
Putting all the armor on has other effects. It dramatically reduces the vehicles cross country capabilities the Humvee was expressly designed for. The M998 has very few terrain restrictions, the M1114 has a lot. It is pretty much restricted to roads. It can't go anywhere wet...it will quickly sink to the axles. It can't go through most sand...it will sink. It can't go over rougher terrain...the suspension will fail. It can't climb steep hills. A farmfield that is a racetrack to an M998 is a sinkhole to an M1114. It can't go all the places it may need to. The M998 can go wherever a farm tractor can go, and then some. The M1114 can go where a midsize passenger car can go...except it is likely to breakdown on the way."
- Internet Poster, "Blanknoone"
"It seems obvious that if what you want is an armored personnel carrier, you don't start with a marginally-powered 4X4, and start tacking on armor." - Internet Poster, "Redbob"
Conclusions...
If we really want to protect our troops from improvised explosive devices on the streets of Iraq, we should remove our troops from the streets of Iraq. This will not only protect them from direct harm, but will eliminate the impetus for the explosions in the first place. Control of the government of Iraq belongs rightfully to the people of Iraq, and only when sovereignty is restored to the people will their War for Independence come to a close.
-Nathan Morrison is a Political News Columnist for Powers&Morrison.com.
For further information on this or any article printed herein. Please contact: Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com
http://www.LibertyInChaos.PowersAndMorr
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Feb. 17th, 2007
02:24 pm - President's Day War Protest In Southern California
February 17th, 2007 3:02PM PST
If you are in California, south of Los Angeles this President's day, I highly encourage you to make your way to Carlsbad for an act of public political art, in protest of the continuing Iraq occupation. P&M Regular Contributor, Jenni Criscenzo, will be coordinating this event.
Last year, when I first moved to California, this protest was one of the main reasons I decided to stay. P&M was in it's infancy, and I was on the road.
Coming through Carlsbad on my way down to San Diego by the coastline, I came across hundreds of men in women dressed in black standing on the side of the road. It was simple, it was powerful, and it made an undeniable statement of solidarity amongst citizens against this President's war.
P&M Correspondent: Jeeni Criscenzo provides the details Monday's Event,
Bring Their Buddies Home -- a Public Act of Art
Join us this Monday, Feb. 19th (Presidents' Day)
Hwy 101 (Carlsbad Blvd) at Tamarack Ave, Carlsbad
Arrive 9 - 9:30 AM to sign & and get positioned,
Stand in silence 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Wear Black, No Signs
On Monday, Feb. 19th (President's Day) hundreds of San Diego residents will come together in a collaborative effort to illustrate the tragic consequences of war and champion non-violent solutions to conflict, by being part of an Act of Art. You may remember that I organized a similar event in November 2005, the day after Thanksgiving.
The Bring Their Buddies Home Vigil will happen between 10:00 and 11:00 AM along Hwy 101 in Carlsbad, stretching north and south of Tamarack Ave. Everyone is invited to participate by standing in silence, dressed in black, with each person wearing a memorial page with the name of one of the fallen troops. The vigil is meant to declare, by our silent presence, th at we honor the sacrifice of the U.S. troops who have died in Iraq and that it's time to Bring Their Buddies Home.
Bring your family and friends - the larger the turnout, the more effective our message will be. Here is a non-confrontational way to show that you support our troops AND want to bring them home.
The Press is already giving this event great coverage. Today's Local News covered it on the front page on Wednesday, and it was written up in the Union Tribune, Light Connection and Zengers. North County Time will have a story about it on Saturday. NPR & KPBS have called for interviews. This is going to be a historical event - please come be a part of it.
See http://www.BringTheirBuddiesHome.co
Call me, Jeeni Criscenzo, at 760-529-9809 if you have any questions.
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And if you are planning to attend the protest, and would like to report on it to the readers here at P&M, please contact: Morrison@PowersAndMorrison.com
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