Suggested reading list for July 21, 2015

More follies from the Random Thoughts Public Affairs shop (inside joke there) … I hope you find this list of some use, fun, or just silliness.

Note: Each block of text actually is a link to a story or a web page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take to the page being referred to.

Obama says IRS didn't target Tea Party; if it did, it was Congress's fault ... Good grief, how long will the main stream media put up with this ... it is incredible. Obama either is totally delusional or he just knows that progressives and liberals will never call him on his flat out, demonstrably false, lies.

Interesting article by George Friedman on Turkey's Byzantine position in the pivot of several of the world's crisis points.

Obama's first wave of US-trained Syrian rebels seem to reflect the disarray his whole policy in the Middle East is in.

Anti-drone gun ... another Army idea that probably will founder on getting gold plated

This is a serious issue - Army military recruiters, etc., - but I find it interesting that the local Air National Guard center here has steadily been ramping up its security. Today, a local police car was parked inside its compound on the road leading into it.

PACOM flies on patrol in the South China Sea - China calls it a provocation. Dang, what isn't a provocation to the Chinese or the North Koreans.

Another view on the Iran Deal ... sort of explains why the Russians were so eager to get it.

And more wood for the fire burning in the Ukraine ... Granted, we are talking 1,800 troops from 18 countries ... that is like a speed bump to any thing larger than a mech brigade

Interesting view on the women tackling Army Ranger School ... and it probably is a very valid criticism.  I understand the point about not having the basic skills ... and that should be provided ... I just still have qualms about women in combat arms ... but that is my own personal experience in a non-combat arm unit in a combat zone, with women ... (It really didn't work all that well, although to the women involved, they all were very technically competent ... it was all the other issues)

I hope, for all our sakes, that conclusions being drawn here by Prof. Sowell are wrong ... because ... well, the unthinkable has then become thinkable.

Disparate impact: Is it a desperate attempt to enforce a particular world view or create a utopia? One wonders what ever happened to freedom of association, but I suppose that is an archaic concept that deserves to be placed on the junkpile of history.

To me it is common sense ... but then I am a generalist and not a specialist ... but I am among those who were forced (and that is the only way to put it) to shed my debt and restructure my life to face economic realities.  It cost me a bunch, but I survived. I don't think there is anyway the federal government, and pretty much all the other levels that have themselves leveraged for disaster, can escape. Only time will tell.

Let's see just how sympathetic we can make the Tennessee shooter look. Give me a break people ... find all the excuses you want to try to explain his actions but it comes down to "Allah Akbar" ... just like the Charleston shooter was a white supremacist idiot ... the Chattanooga shooter was an Islamic Jihadi wannabee idiot.

Arming the troops .... there is some sense in this ... but then you could do like the senior NCOs did at Army headquarters in Riyadh during the Gulf War I ... we chose very carefully when and who were allow to carry bullets, but everybody had to carry their weapon.

Trophy Tee Shirt - While I understand - and in many ways agree with - those who don't like this shirt ... I find the whole thing a bit of a tempest in a teapot, as Pappy used to say, in our world where we are consumed with being politically and socially correct. Unfortunately, the freedom and liberty to be an idiot in this country has become too offensive for some people. GET OVER IT people. Nobody is forcing you to buy or wear the dang thing.

I actually think this is a good story ... more news papers should do it ... not sensationalizing but just the boring factual reporting ... it is good for our republic.

With all due respect to Gov. O'Malley, but he had absolutely nothing to apologize for for saying that all lives matter ... and if that offends you or you think it minimizes some problem ... then you got the problem. But that is just my opinion and you are welcome to tell me to stuff it. ... but ALL lives DO matter.

Better late to the party than never arriving at all ... I guess he had to wait until the furor got stirred up enough

More kids in poverty ... I guess this is all the fault of the mean old Republicans ... but I am getting to the point of asking: When will the liberals and progressives ever take any ownership of any of the massive failures of their plans and ideas to solve the world's problems?

GO! GO! GO! ... don't stop, just get that wagon train moving now, as fast as you can NASA.

Another bad news story for those who think single-payer health care is the answer ... the VA right now is as close as it gets in the US and see how screwed up it is.

This story presents a very tragic picture ... one I blame on the liberals and progressives in the United States ... sorry, but if the shoe fits wear it.

Why is the Pope focused on the Devil? Because it is his job? He is here to fight the Devil and its evil influences. Of course, if you don't want to believe in the Devil, that is your business, but it IS the Pope's business to fight the Devil.

And last but not least: The true force for goodness on the planet

Suggested readings for July 20, 2015

Ok, another round of my eclectic choices of reading material that has struck my fancy today to pass along. I hope you find it either food for thought  … or entertaining … in either case, feel free to point out my shortcomings … or not … either here or on my FaceBook page.

Note: Each block of text actually is a link to a story or a web page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take to the page being referred to.

When to take the Deal to the UN ... I suspect that many in Congress - for once jealous of its prerogatives - feel like if the issue is already resolved in the UN (as the US will have to vote before Congressional action), then Congress will be steamrolled into accepting the pact and ending sanctions immediately. Don't know if that is going to happen, but one should remember what happened when President Wilson signed the Treaty of Versailles and created the League of Nations. It doesn't pay to get ahead of Congress sometimes.

This is an aspect of racial relations in South Carolina that I have personally witnessed, tried to bring to the attention of national AND international media, and have seen pretty much ignored by the National Media in the US - hence people stereotype South Carolinians as racist ...

Chattanooga shooter: And people wonder why readers just shake their heads at the biases of the WaPo. Calling the shooter an "aimless, depressed 24-year-old Muslim man" and "One possibility is that Abdul­azeez was just a troubled young man" ... give me a break here... accept things at face value ... like the racist, white supremacist idiot in South Carolina, this guy was a Islamic Jihadi.

And now the Obama Administration wants to "criminalize" Social Security and Social Security Disability recipients by entering their names into the National Crime Information System database to keep them from having firearms. It may be legal, but it seems to me that it is an abuse of authority and the right to privacy SS and SSD recipients should have. But like the VA, those people no longer have privacy rights under the Brave New World.

Cuba reopens Embassy in Washington. This was inevitable.

Results like this only happen in dictatorships ...

Mitsubishi apologies to WWII POW labor ... in one sense this is important ... in Japan apologies really are a big thing. But in fact, it really changes nothing.

From the "It feels good to be a Liberal" these days corner ... these do seem like some questions that should be answered ... but won't be.

The question here is: Will this case be followed up? Will it even make the national and cable news nets? This story sounds like a throw-back to the 1960s in Mississippi ... except it was white Mississippians in the suspect car rather than black Mississippians.

VA Healthcare ... well, my view is that this is a typical bureaucratic hissy fit from a system that is riven with problems.

Ambassador Rice is correct ... we should expect Iran to divert some of the $160 Billion windfall they get out of the Deal unfreezing assets.  Even if they use only 1/10th of 1 percent of it, that still is $160 Million to go to fund terrorists.

Some people just don't like Planned Parenthood as an organization ... and it seems with good reason.

Two points for John McCain ... however much I may disagree with the Arizona Republican Senator ... and I have my share ... I am glad he is taking the high road.

An interesting take on marriage ... unfortunately, rather utopian and politically incorrect these days.  Sadly, I fear, the dam has broken and life will get ever more interesting in the days to come.

Another take on the Trump-McCain dustup

Even though WaPo is unsympathetic in its portrayal, Gov. Walker is correct: The United States either is a nation of laws, or it isn't. If you are here illegally, then  you need to go back out and come in again.  Nobody, not even women and children are above the law.

It IS impossible to inspect something you don't know is there ... and in the Iran deal (given its past history and actions) it is not a given that the UN will know where all the Iranian facilities are.

Retired UK Chief of Defence Staff (equivalent to the US JCS Chief) really ramps up the rhetoric on ISIS ... not that I think there will be many takers in Europe.

Kerry on the Iran Deal .... this deal is better than no deal ... Huh? Tell that to the Czechs in 1938.

Russia v. Ukraine - one never knows what is in Putin's mind ... but it does raise questions as to why so many troops are there.

Soviet maps - fascinating story. I remember way back when I was in the National Guard, taking a class on how to read Soviet military maps and how to use them in combat ... spooky to know how good they were

A tad unsympathetic to the US portrayal of life at Guantanamo Bay's Detention facility. Having interviewed former Guards down there, I understand a different point a view.

Leave to the Obama Administration to do something stupid. I guess they don't realize you can do just about anything to a service member, just don't mess with his food ... that will inspire a mutiny

Is China taking a step back in repression ... it looks that way ... and that could signal other bad things ... interesting story here

An analysis of Obama/Kerry's planned end run around Congress to the UN on the Iran Deal ... "This is not going to end well."

ET Call Home - well, not really, but with Stephen Hawking and a Russian billionaire backing it,  the search for ET rises to a new level.

War against Sweden? What are the Russians thinking ... more saber-rattling from Putin and his minions.

Suggested Readings for July 19, 2015

It’s Sunday funnies time … well, sort of. But here is today’s list of stories that I have been perusing for anyone who wants to see them. You, the reader, as usual, are welcome to make any comments you wish, either here or at my Facebook page. Your choice.

Note: Each block of text actually is a link to a story or a web page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take to the page being referred to.

Sometimes it is hard to explain ... how tortured your soul can be ... even if you weren't a trigger puller. I salute this woman and this man - both soldiers - for their courage, dedication and honor.

More eat this and not that, based on the latest study ... as if we all are going to live forever. Get over it ... and enjoy life.

This is a very good lesson for anyone: How to hold a pistol and not hurt yourself.

This story sounds like the VA we veterans have come to know and love

They tried outlawing guns, now with the Brits start outlawing knives? Violent crime is violent crime ... and people will find a weapon

The point about credibility in this commentary is what I have warned reporters about all my journalistic career. It is the only currency they have, and if they waste it, then they are no longer of any value, because who will believe anything they write.

Sometimes it does fall to the individual citizen to stand and protect his community. Don't agree with that? Then who is supposed to do it ... the less than 1 percent that you hire to keep watch? When did your obligation as a citizen of you community fall so low that you no longer have any responsibility to it?

As I read this story, I was once again struck by the ignorance of the reporter ... which is one reason the military really has a dislike for journalists for their penchant to mess up facts. In Texas, there is the Texas National Guard (Army and Air Branches) and the Texas State Guard. They are two entirely different and separate creatures. The National Guards are dual role organizations primarily funded by the federal government as a military reserve but under the command of the state's governor unless mobilized for federal service. The State Guard is an entirely state funded organization. It is has little equipment, few arms (if any) and is backup force to the National Guard in state emergencies.  Unfortunately, the reporter in this story identified the State Guard as the National Guard.  Granted, the whole Jade Helm exercise has blown out of proportion by wackos, but  you can blame the Army pretty much for that as they can't seem to get the Public Affairs act together (which usually is the case)

Chattanooga shooter: Let's see how many excuses they can trot out to avoid saying this was a lone wolf Islamic Jihadi bent on a terrorist attack.

USS Little Rock (LCS-9) - Puff piece for the Navy ... heck, the old destroyer I sailed on forty years ago was bigger than this tub.  Granted, the Navy says it is for " littoral" combat, but it really is not much of a match for any blue water ship in any Navy.

Now this is a mystery ... and I doubt it ever will be solved ... but I can some old cowpoke wondering where he left it.

Want to know why some young people go to war ... ISIS knows  ... and unfortunately it also knows how to do it and take advantage of these young men.

The Dishwasher Debate: Well, I always have been a handle down kind of guy ... that way the pointy things don't go through the cracks and jam things up.

A commentary from Israel on the Iran Deal ... it bespeaks of much sadness ... and of a world that has already discounted and forgotten history. I talked with a young man the other day who didn't even know who the enemy was in the Cold War. We are just a tragedy waiting to happen, people.

Here it is, for those with the patience and perseverance. in all its 159 pages of glory ... read it and weep.

With all due respect, but this is what is wrong with this country. We are being Balkanized. This politician had it right the first time: ALL LIVES MATTER ... and if you are African-American and don't like that, then you have a problem. If there is police misconduct, then yes, by all means, the offending officers should pay the price the judicial system calls for. But we can not stand have only one race's lives being given precedence over another.  That is wrong whether it is black, white, yellow, red or tan. It shouldn't matter, and if it does, then we are just perpetuating the problem. And it is never necessary to apologize for or get booed for for saying all lives matter. Those demanding the apology or doing the booing are just as wrong as those who perpetrate violence against others.

Rainbow flag lovers: Take note of this ...

This is some of the violence that those who are not into trans-whatever  are faced with ... Sorry, people but the shoe is on the other foot now, and it is not very pretty, is it.

Demonstrations in Columbia - I say throw the whole tawdry lot in the hoosegow ... but we can't do that ... but those on either side threatening to do violence do need a stay in the pokey.

Suggested reading list for July 18, 2015

Lots of goodies today … and not all political … still read at your own peril and I hope they provide fodder for thought and discussion as well as entertainment. Comment as you will, as I always say, because that is what this blog is all about.

Note: Each block of text actually is a link to a story or a web page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take to the page being referred to.

Tall Ships parade into Portland (Maine) harbor. Unfortunately, I slept through it all ... but had I been awake I could have walked down the end of the street to watch them sail in. My bad.

More neat news about little old Pluto way out there in space. Who would have thunk it?

Banning "Curvy" ... ah the politically correct strike again.

Face it Tiger. You now are part of the over-the-hill-gang. You had a good run and be proud of that ... but you ain't the golfer you once were.

THIS is dangerous in this household. You have to realize that to some here, ICE CREAM is a separate own special food group and is not to be denied its daily ration. Which makes it really hard on me, because I DO have to strictly ration my intake of the tasty stuff.

More fascinating news from New Horizon and its visit to Pluto.

An example of what Kipling was talking about in his short story: The Cat Who Walked By Himself ... waving his wild tail behind his wild, wild lone.

Point in fact: Men are not Women. Commentary that will drive the transgender advocates bonkers. I am sorry it does, but it is the truth, no matter how you want to cut it. A man can not conceive and carry a child in a womb from ovaries that he does not have. Sorry, just won't happen.

Energy policy and the EPA: Interesting commentary. I doubt that progressives will admit that maybe the author has some points. Unfortunately, I think the points are quite valid, which is an indictment of the current administration.

Same-Sex Marriages - interesting argument here ... I disagree with those who would force others, officials or otherwise, to participate or face fines or forced resignations. But then you know what that makes me ... if so, so be it.

Donald Trump, immigration and Cuba: Interesting commentary about a Cuban dissident. Food for thought.

Chattanooga's Muslim Community concerned about possible backlash. ... as they should be. I think they are making the correct noises, but now is the time for them to stand with the rest of us and when they see, hear, suspect some Jihadi activity, that they start burning up the police and CrimeStoppers tip lines. Unless they do that, then they do run the risk of being seen as accomplices. I think the quote about Ceasar's wife is appropriate here.

FBI warnings get vindicated ... not to turn us into a police state, but it is every citizen's duty to stand to protect the community. If you see, hear, suspect something illegal (terrorist or not) report it. That is your duty as a citizen.

Tennessee suspect sent Koran message pre-attack ... and  you don't think this is linked to Islamic Jihad? What world are you living on?

Tennessee attack commentary: This point is valid. It is not Islamaphobic.

Another view of the Tennessee shootings ... this one from the Beeb

It seems the governor's in six states are taking these lone-wolf attacks seriously

For those who say America should do things like they do it in other industrial countries .... aw, like requiring voters to present IDs when voting. Nah, that would be discriminatory say the progressives and the Democrats and is just an evil plot of the GOP to suppress minority voters.

Iran deal: Another commentary. You can consider its merits.

Iranian top leader: Deal or no deal, US still is our enemy and that doesn't change ... sigh, why don't we ever take people's words at face value. It seem we always are looking for hidden meanings in words ... and never consider that the words actually are meant to be taken at face value.

For those of you who think slavery is gone ... it ain't ... of course, it isn’t legal now, but that doesn't matter.

Iraq bombing: Hello, you on the left and progressives ... this ain't Americans doing this. Come to the realization that this conflict is endemic in the Middle East. Oh, yeah, I forgot, we toppled a brutal, savage dictatorship that was killing 100K of its own people a year, but this violence is our fault because the people there just don't quite get the bit about living peacefully together. You are aware of the Arab concept of blood honor, I hope.

As usual, Prof. Hansen gives a lesson on the threats facing the United States from a historical perspective. Another good read, even if you disagree.

Federal government's racial data mining ... and who says people aren't working hard to divide Americans rather than unite them.

I wonder if this new force will be Putin's equivalent of the SA or SS

Aw ... Nessie, could you really just be a really big catfish?

And finally, and excellent essay on the duty of a "man" (but in my view is the duty of every citizen – male or female - of every community in our nation)

Suggested reading list for July 17, 2015

Here come some more articles that I found interesting and wanted to share. As always, I hope you find them either food for thought or entertaining … however, you are free to leave a comment on my Facebook page or here, if you are so inclined, if for no other reason than to tell me how much of a donkey’'

Note: Each block of text actually is a link to a story or a web page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take to the page being referred to.

Mr. Rachel offers another interesting view point. Question: Have the thought police really taken over?

Once upon a time, Congress and the Supreme Court were co-equal branches of the US Government ... under our current administration, that concept has fallen to the power of executive action, backed by trying to invoke UN laws and treaties to supersede the other branches. I find this disturbing and more than a bit distressing, but then ... I guess I will just have to live with it.

The American justice system often moves slowly like a glacier, but that is by design. The verdict in this case is correct in all particulars. Now, the ordeal of the sentencing phase begins. Followed by the lengthy and seemingly interminable appeals process. Unfortunately, the latter cannot be hastened, nor can the first, it seems. Speedy trials and quick executions are not in the cards in the US.

Rare Senate bipartisanship on the education bill. Now, if the House would just accept the Senate version, it would put the President in a quandary because he already has promised to veto it. Personally I think the Senate bipartisanship is all for show, for when the reconciled bill comes back, the Democrats will toe the President's line or at least vote to uphold his veto. This way the Senators get to tout both votes for and against the bill ... how cynical is that.

It looks like the Wisconsin Supreme Court does not look kindly on suppressing free speech of conservatives. Of course Liberals and Progressives will all claim it it about too much money in politics, which is bovine scatology. We spend more on advertising tooth paste in this country than we spend on political speech.

Iran is not going to spend a majority of its windfall from the "Deal" on supporting terrorism. Duh! It doesn't have to. Do the math folks. One Percent of $100 BILLION is $1 BILLION, which is far more than the TENS of MILLIONS that is spends to support terrorist organizations.

USA Today strikes again: Ok, President Obama coordinates his message with selected lobbyists ... that shouldn't really be news.  Obama and his staff brief his favorite non-official sources and they trot out the talking head circuit and spout his talking points. Business as usual.

Food for thought - No, we don't have the right to do whatever we want. But remember whomever gives rights has the prerogative to take the same rights away. Rights that come from God are not in the Constitution, because the Constitution can't grant them. The Constitution can only say that government is not allowed to abridge those rights that the people are already endowed with by their creator/God. We tend to forget that sometimes, and I fear more so in the 21st Century than in the past.

Retired Col. West pulls no punches about the attack on Naval Facilities in Charleston. You should think about it. He is passionate and there is reason for his passion. Sometimes, when a group of people say they wish you harm, you need to believe them and react. Unfortunately, all we hear from our President is excuses when they are Muslims, and off the wall condemnation of a host of things if they happen to be white. The pattern, unfortunately, is getting tiresome.

Interesting discussion: Should urban chicken coops be banned? What do you think?

Time to panic: 1 in 7 Americans in a new poll think racism is the worst problem the country faces.

Another case for a One-World Government ... are we ready for it ... who gets to be the boss and what form does it take>

Planned Parenthood apologizes - Oopsie, the tone was not right. Understand I am all for family planning and prenatal care services, but I do have problems with abortion on demand. The SCOTUS says abortion is a legal right in the first trimester ... but it hasn't ruled on later. Abortion for convenience seems a bit beyond the pale to me ... as part of my family points out: What about the rights of the unborn human developing in the womb? Does it have no rights until is born and takes its first breath? I find the concept troubling and I honestly don't have the answer, but it bothers me.

Sights on the stars - This commentary is so true. We seem to have lost the will to explore. Content in our own little domain, we have forgotten the heights exploration can deliver to us. We already should be camped out on the Moon ... and probably on Mars. I hope the private efforts now underway can fill the gap left by the American government's abandonment of the ability to dream.

Another view on Planned Parenthood's systematic harvesting of fetal tissue from aborted babies. It is a discussion we should be having.

Michael Barrone takes Hillary to task on her economic view of the world. A bit dated, he says. I tend to agree ... in fact have said from an economic standpoint - quality, affordable childcare always has been an oxymoron.

Interesting commentary - Granted, I know it will get a rather incensed response in some quarters, which probably is why there is much truth in it.

The University of California has problems with micro aggressions ... some world we live in.

The problem with the "Drone Strategy" is the same problem one has with the "Air Power" Doctrine that sees air power as the solution to all things. Sorry, but in the end, nothing replaces the man with a rifle, with a bayonet, on the ground, face to face with the bad guys.  Everything else is indiscriminate.

Motive for the Chattanooga Shooter .... ah, is this really all that difficult: Islamic Jihad

Good to remember  (even in the military): Sometimes breaking the rules to make a point pays off

Obama loses his cool. The problem with the Iran deal is that Obama couldn't just walk away ... so he came up with a deal that the Iranians would accept. Is it better than war? Only time will tell? Were there other options and things that should have been on the table? Undoubtedly, but all posed a threat to the deal and the deal was all important.

Desert Shield - a turning point in history ...

What weapons will Iran buy? Pretty much everything, now that the sanction are being removed. And look for who is doing the selling and then ask yourself: Were they really trying to contain a weapons program or make lots of bucks selling stuff to Iran. This was what was happening in 2003 ... only the revisionists decline to remember that. Now, we know Obama has no stomach for a fight, and Iran gets what it wants.

No question in my mind as to the answer to this question on the Beeb: Yes, and the sooner the better.

US to blame for ISIS - this is typical Progressive bovine scatology. Everything in the Middle East, all the conflicts, are because the Americans started them. I don't know where these people get this BS, but they seem to forget that the people over there are not marionettes dancing at the end of American strings. Did it ever occur to these idiots that people over there have their own grievances and reasons to go to war. I know, America is all-powerful and nobody anywhere in the world acts in their own interests on their own. It is all in reaction to what America does. That is so damn stupid, it makes me puke.

Suggested reading list for July 16, 2015

I am a slowpoke, but here it is … for your edification and enjoyment … or whatever … I hope you find the contents food for thought.

Note: Each block of text actually is a link to a story or a web page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take to the page being referred to.

Welcome to Canada but don't get too comfortable - Al Jazeera - I suppose if Muslim countries would offer the same rights, etc., then I would find this more valid. As it is, I don't ... still, I know progressive Canadians will all be in a dither and have been.

Another interesting commentary from Al Jazeera - this on same-sex marriages. Most interesting is that it really doesn't point out the fact that indeed in Muslim countries, homosexuality is more than just a sin.

Another Al Jazeera story – This on the Iran deal … I love the ending … but what the heck … if the shoe fits, wear it. Only, I think they are far too sanguine about the Iranians than I am.

Leaving aside all politics, I hope George the First gets well, but I know that his time is close ... and I will, for one, always appreciate his job as president.

Gee, the law of unintended consequences ... or maybe the law of supply and demand, but the ACA ain't delivering what people got better before ... or so says WaPo

Scott Walker, Gay Rights, and Boy Scouts ... I think he said it best: I am not running to be the president of the Boy Scouts. Unfortunately, progressives and the press can't leave it at that ... either you buy into jamming the GLBT agenda in its entirely down everyone's throat or you have become a raging bigot at least, or a flip-flopper as worst.

More bad news for the ACA, from the WSJ: Federal Health Exchange Approved Fake Claims, HealthCare.gov allowed fictitious applicants to maintain coverage and re-enroll this year

Kudos to the Senate. I know that perturbs those who think the federal government should run everything ... but I don't agree and education should be a state and local responsibility.

Who or what shot down the Malaysian Air flight over the Ukraine. There seems to be less and less doubt about the what. The question remains: who was at the trigger and who ordered it?

Confederate flag on private property: Love it or hate it, you have to give this Sheriff's department official a kudo for a clever response.

As usual, I can not say enough about Dr. Hansen and his perceptiveness. Yes, folks, for those of you who don't realize it: Human nature is pretty immutable ... and despite all the progressive protestations that it can be molded and changed if we just educate and do it correctly, it isn't going to change much. Sorry, don't believe that, get over it because you are denying the undeniable.

Mr. Hunter here does an excellent job of pointing why the GOP sucks ... they ain't got a cogent plan. The progressives do and they are relentless ... which means even if every plan they have fails, they continue to push on as if they didn't.

Mr. Chapman has a very valid point ... unfortunately, there is no alternative at this point ... unless you really want to expend a ton of American blood and treasure.

Mexico: Crime is bigger than the crime bosses ... interesting analysis, but the question remains whether the Mexican government and its states will be able to reassert control and restore civil life now torn by turf wars.

And the rhetoric in the China Seas continues to ratchet up ... who knows where it will end. But it will not end because the US told everybody to cool it.

The Obama Administration is not speaking with one voice on the Iran deal. The DOD continues to pronounce its own reservations.

The Army wants more pre-positioned sets in Europe ... while withdrawing troops stationed there ... I suppose that works. Although I always wonder what good pre-positioned stocks were if you couldn't get troops there in time to man them before they were captured or destroyed.

Shipbuilding delays at the Bath Iron Works ... this is unfortunate, but if the quote from the union leader to the Bangor Daily News is accurate, once again it is the union that stands in the way of getting the ships built faster (on-time). This is an old story that goes back to World War II as my father could personally attest to.

Military terms got wrong ... one of the reasons the military gets so pissed at journalists ... cause they can't use the terms right.

Iran deal - yet another set of reasons to be cynical about it

Unfortunately, in the Age of Obama, there is a certain element of truth to this. Sad but true.

You want to know what is going to happen if entitlements have to be reduced in the US - look no further than Greece ... sorry folks, but those entitled will not take kindly to not getting their slice of federal largess.

An alternative view of Obama: In re the Iran deal, from someone who remembers the trauma of 1979 and the 444-days that followed ... as well as the continuing war with the US since then.

Pluto, we hardly knew you ... and now thanks to New Horizons by NASA we know much more about you ... and you are beautiful

This is one way to spin the Iran deal ... but it won't happen, at least not on Obama's watch.

Suggested readings for July 15, 2015

More food for the brain … at least it helps me keep thinking … although there are those in this world who are convinced I am a close-minded bigot and a hater … I don’t agree with them, but they are entitled to their view just as much as I am entitled to mine. You see, the key, in my view, is to endeavor as much as possible to listen and be courteous … life is too short to be otherwise, even with those you vehemently disagree on whatever issue. So, you are welcome to comment either here or on my Facebook page on the links provided.

Note: It was pointed out to me that I did not make this format for my reading list perfectly clear. To that end: I point out that each block of text actually is a link to a story or a web page that I am commenting on. Click on that text and it will take to the page being referred to. Sorry about that.

Iran deal

One take on the Russian role, praised by President Obama ... please note the geopolitical and economic benefits that the Russians accrue

Another view - which leads me to ask are they just reciting talking points or are they that sure of their facts

Another view - which tends to underline why a lot of people are wary of the deal

Washington Post overview of the deal - a lot of hope in this

WaPo Graphic on who got what ... I hope it is correct

A negative assessment of the impact of the agreement

Another negative assessment of the agreement

It seems that the military's leadership is not so enamored of the agreement

Another negative view ... it is not all just politics, folks, some people have serious reservations

One of the reasons that President Obama and Secretary Kerry have credibility problems on the agreement

Criticism of the accord from another angle

One of the drawbacks of the deal - from a retired military leader - it comes with costs, but it is wise for the US to incur those costs?

Enough on the Iran deal … deal with it as you see fit. As for me, I admit, I am extremely cynical about the Iranians and the pact … except it is not a treaty, it merely an executive agreement between President Obama and the other nations involved.

Ok, having said that let’s move on to other things.

Army considers hollow-point round for new pistol ... other than it is a violation of one of the Hague treaties on the conduct of war (which the US never signed), I think this is a bad idea.

Three women progress in Ranger Assessment Course - go, ladies, go ... as well as to all the men, do your best and I hope you survive.

America's military decline - it is the progressives' wet dream come true

Transgenders in the Infantry ... this will be interesting to watch

Women in combat (by extension, transgenders) - another view ... think about it folks ... it ain't about equality, it is about effectiveness.

Women in combat - a view from a woman who has been there, done that, and lived to make this report

Maybe the poor MV-22 Osprey will get a little more respect now

Mr. Stossel again points out the fallacies in the progressive arguments about "progress" ... please, pray tell, show me where on a macro scale socialist policies have ever worked.

If this is true, and I have not found anything to discredit it, then it is a frightening use of psychology to re-educate Americans whose political views judges don't agree with.

This seems another case where religious conscience is falling victim to political correctness. When does it stop? Where does it stop?

This is a bit of a harsh indictment of liberals and progressives ... however, there is much truth in the charges here

Hooray for New Horizons ... and may the astronomers have a field day studying the photographs when they all are finally downloaded.

Well, at least the Pentagon leadership is presenting a united front: Russia is bad guy No. 1, ISIS is down the totem pole somewhere, but still a threat.

Concealed carry up, homicides down ... I wonder if there is a causative correlation there

Transforming the nation? Really, millennials, is where you want the progressives to take us. I hope not, because then we will have surrendered all our liberties and freedoms of thought, conscience and association to the altar of your vision of political correctness.

And finally a few observations on the Confederate flag

Has everyone lost all sense? Why are progressives treating Islamicists with more nuance than those who see more than racism in the various Confederate flags.

Dr. Ben Carson makes a valid and very cogent point ... please consider it.

Suggested reading for July 14, 2015

More of my wanderings through the world of articles on the internet … please peruse and read at your pleasure. Remember my purpose here is to provide food for thought … assuming you want to think … some is light extemporanea and others more challenging. Feel free as always to state your views either here or on my Facebook page.

Top story of the day: The Iran Deal ... Mr. Stein expresses my view.

And where are the apologies to Tom Selleck? Not happening ... which shows how the left and progressives work.

Bernie Sanders: I still am trying to figure out what happened - before the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act become law, it was said that there were 35-40 million people in the US without health insurance. Now that the ACA is law, Sanders says there are still 35 million who are uninsured ... and if the Republicans repeal it another 27 million will become uninsured. HUH? I know Sanders wants everybody covered by Medicare or its equivalent, but that essentially makes all health care workers slaves to the federal government. Sorry, I don't want to put people back into slavery ... I would rather they own their own labor and can sell it at market price.

One-third on VA wait lists are dead. Eh-yup, folks, this is what you get with government-run health care. And you do know that veterans with insurance and above a certain income level get billed for their health care (Service Connected Combat Related care excluded)

Fight over Confederate Flag turns hateful ... eh-yup ... I can pretty much agree with this guy. It really is sad how the rhetoric of the left and progressives can ride roughshod over what was (admittedly political) a gesture of reconciliation.

Dr. Sowell makes a point I have been making for like 3 decades ... hello, the Civil War/the War Between the States/the War of Yankee Aggression is over and has been for a century and a half. Stop fighting it. Let us address today's problems and note that where the Democrats have rule for the past half century, their solutions have not worked ... in fact they have failed miserably.

Walker ... an interesting candidate ... with good credentials from the governance side. It will be interesting to watch how various special interest groups savage him and - assuming they play their usual role - major opinion making newspapers and the cable news nets treat him.

I don't agree with Cal Thomas on much (he is too strident for my personal taste) but on this issue I happen to do so. The Law Should Apply Equally To All. Period. End of Sentence. End of Paragraph. End of Chapter. End of Story. End of Book. Period.

Mr. Murchison leaves us with something to chew on. I happen to agree with him, but that is my right. I always wonder at what level a person becomes "rich" or "wealthy"? I used to joke when I would introduce myself "Hi, my name is Rich, but it is no indication of my financial condition." And while it was a good ice breaker (usually got a chuckle) it was a) true and b) an indicator that all my life I have felt "rich" even though statistically I was in the bottom third of the wage earners in the US. As for the progressive position on wages and wealth. The minimum wage is a cruel hoax and raising it is even worse. And at what level do we just start confiscating how much somebody earns or has (remember, most wealth is merely on paper and is not tangible)

18 bits of trivia about Scott Walker

Another interesting bit of trivia - the rifle that ALMOST became the M-1 of World War II

Interesting commentary on the existential risk the Russians pose to the US ... food for thought.

A look ahead at the world of soldiering - infantry style. Looks like something out of a science fiction thriller may be just around the corner ... but then I have been hearing that for years and it ain't here yet.

Yes, digging up Confederate bones and destroying Confederate monuments is only to make things worse. Take a page from the men who actually fought in the war: It is over. Get over it. Nothing wrong with honoring and respecting valor no matter what cause you are fighting for.

Suggested Reading List for July 13, 2015

Another day, another list of stories … I hope you find these interesting. They are meant to provoke thought and consideration. You are welcome to disagree with me … but I encourage you to leave  your comments here or on my Facebook page … or, horrors, even share and distribute this list among your friends and frenemies.

 

Trump allegedly says US should have invaded Mexico rather than Iraq. I am not questioning the veracity of this story, but I always am suspect of stories that use unnamed sources. Still, if this were 100 years ago and the US-Mexico border was as wild and untamed as it is today, Gen. Pershing and the Army, reinforced by the Texas, Arizona, New Mexico and California National Guards, indeed would be raising Cain among the Mexicans, because that is exactly what did happen in 1914-1916. Of course, we are too politically correct these days to enforce our borders and immigration laws.

Big City homicides spike - And you are surprised? You spend a couple years beating up on police in the media for cases they didn't merit such national flogging and alleged criminals are getting out of jail left and right because that is the progressive thing to do ... and you expect police officers to not drop back and regroup? Give me a break.

Ta-Nehisi Coates - a view from an African-American ... Interesting story ... long. My reaction to it is that Coates comes at the world from a certain point of view ... one that he is unwilling to modify (which I guess is understandable) but is totally at odds with what the US is and what has an should stand for. He has adopted the progressive mantra that all is the fault of the whites ... and I am sorry, but I don't accept that guilt. He seems to absolve the individual and blames "society" ... well, if that is the case, then what is your solution ... he doesn't have one ... just complaints.

12 Reasons to not blame yourself - some of these are spot on, but most are narcissistic bovine scatology of the typical progressive view of the world that says "it is all about how you feel and if it feels good, do it."

Who killed our can-do spirit? I am not sure it is totally dead, but it might be on life-support.  Why is that? In my estimation it is be a nation of risk-takers, we have become risk-adverse. Children can't do the things people my age, and maybe a dozen years younger could do as children because  the world has become a too dangerous place ... Bovine scatology. We have people who want to wrap every on in cotton from cradle to grave, rather than accept that the world is inherently a dangerous place and the best thing is to learn the skills to survive and thrive. Of course, to do that you have to take personal responsibility for you life. No, I didn't say control, because there are too many things you can't control ... but you can take personal responsibility for learning from your failures (in other words: letting people fail - gasp! what a concept) and learning to deal with the consequences with in your capabilities. Unfortunately, from my perspective, progressives and the left just can't seem to let that happen.

What to do about ISIS? Good question ... and this author fails to provide an answer. He does point out all the reasons why the locals - who should carry the load - can't and a number of the reasons why the Americans have the capability and the wherewithal to beat ISIS, but we don't have the will ... we have been down that road and we really don't want to do it again without a better plan. And don't look for President Obama to come up with one ... he doesn't have a clue.

Interesting discussion of the state of US-Russian relations and the curious disconnect between the Defense Department military leaders and Kerry's State Department and President Obama.

US deserters find Canada less welcoming than 50 years ago. HMMM - might that be that the Canadians had their own servicemembers lives on the line in Afghanistan?

The Ghost Fleet - This is a resource that is terribly neglected by the United States ... ships can not be conjured out of thin  air ... and reserves ships, like reserve equipment stocks and military reservists are supposed to be there to hold the line. Unfortunately it is a hard sell to Congress, the Administration and to the active military components ... it ain't sexy and it doesn't enhance active careers.

WaPo's daily brief ... it is interesting to see its subtle prejudices at work ... but most disconcerting is the thing at the bottom on what is trending on the left ... that is really scary. Folks, kiss your individual freedoms and liberties good bye.

$110 in pennies - Well, that is one way to protest.

Since when have the French not been the sick man of Europe?

Jim DeMint is not my favorite political figure ... but he has this one correct ... we need to be a melting pot once again, not a tossed salad.

Greece - the headline of this article says it all ... not that progressives would understand

Interesting commentary, from the British point of view, on Islamism. What part of the point about Islamism (vs. Islam) wanting to conquer all non-Muslims do you not understand? There is no compromise with these people, they are like terminators. You can't reason with them.

Definitely one of the reasons I like Canada

The Big One in the Northwest US - you know something ... I understand wanting to be prepared ... but sometimes Mother Nature wins ... or we all can be so risk-adverse that we try to find somewhere where there is no threat ... but guess what ... there ain't no such place. So take your risks and live with it.

Supplemental reading list for July 12, 2005

Again, I hope you enjoy these articles … I hope you find them food for thought and that you see a benefit in sharing either this blog page or individual articles with others, for that is how ideas spread.

Just when you want to give up, it takes an Australian to point out what has made America different. Unfortunately, he is right in his worries. All too often no the right to fail is being taken away from us and those who do fail always find someone else to blame so they are a victim. It is time, people to just pick up and move out.

Mexican drug lord escapes Max-Security facility. It ain't the great escape, because someone outside built the tunnel for him, but the precision of the tunnel would have benefit the prisoners in that Stalag in World War II

Memphis ... don't flout the law ... just leave Bedford Forrest where he lies.

Race matters I guess when it involves people who kill a bunch of people. Some dominate the national headlines and others get little squibs on the AP.

Hate Old Glory ... this is what I mean that it seems to be an "American" is something to be ashamed of these days. Sometimes I wonder what these people think it is like living in other countries that are not so open to allowing free expression of even silly thoughts.

Cakes and bakers ... flogging a dead horse, I suppose, but I find this action by regulators obscene ... and those who support forcing people to do things against their faith being tyrannical

Cakes and bakers ... in order to be fair, I offer the progressive defense ... I don't agree with it ... but you can make your own choice.

Rule of Law v. Obama and Illegal immigrants ... unfortunately, to me it seems, this commentary makes many valid points. However, I doubt that the law really is part of the equation in Obama's eyes ... I know, I am being cynical and bitter, but it really does distress me to see Democrats like Clinton and Obama to get passes for not following the law or changing it at their whim.

Flea Market shopper offended .... I am sorry, offended person, but get a life. This is ridiculous ... and I don't care what you think of Nazi or Confederate stuff ... either get over it, or let's trash the First Amendment.