text:
One way the mainstream media breaks down coverage of Iran policy is to place people (both inside and outside government) into two neat categories – those who want to engage Iran and those who want to isolate Iran. Admittedly, there are other ways to create camps on the Iran issue – use of force vs. diplomacy, for example – but the engage vs. isolation dichotomy is the one I most often read about those at State purportedly chomping at the bit to negotiate with an Iranian, any Iranian. Let me offer another way to look at the issue.
I'll start with a simple premise: diplomacy without incentives and disincentives (carrots and sticks) is just talking. Put another way, diplomacy without the proper mix will accomplish nothing when dealing with an adversary. The question then becomes one of establishing both sides of the equation – incentives and disincentives -- before any negotiation. So those who want to divide the world into engage vs. isolate camps are missing the point. In fact, it is not a binary choice. Instead engagement and isolation are two different sides of the same coin.
Experience tells us that without creating significant leverage, you will fail in a negotiation – unless of course you face a weak or unthinking opponent. So, unless the U.S. creates the right conditions for successful negotiations with Iran, we won't get anyplace. For example, part of creating the right conditions is to make clear to friends and the Iranian government that the U.S. has interests in the Gulf it does not plan to abandon. Carriers in the Gulf and building strong military relationships with allies in the region are one way to demonstrate the seriousness with which we take those interests, and our readiness to assist our friends against any threats. Arms sales are just one element to building those strong relationships; we are now working with Congress to gain approval for sales to bolster our allies. Going after Iranian-backed networks targeting our troops with sophisticated improvised explosives is yet another way in which we show our determination to defend broader interests, as well as protect our troops.
On the diplomatic side, Secretary Rice met September 28 in New York during the UN General Assembly with Foreign Ministers from China, France, Germany, Russia and the United Kingdom—the so-called P5+1 (easier than writing out the names of each country when talking about this group). They repeated the 2006 commitment to a dual track diplomatic approach to Iran. Basically, this translates to increasing pressure (vias sanctions and other diplomatic means) on Iran to come clean with the world and meet its UN and other obligations, while at the same time offering Iran direct talks on the nuclear issue if it suspends its nuclear enrichment activities. The offer to Iran also includes the prospect of assistance with the development of a peaceful, civil nuclear program if it agrees to comply with its international obligations and come clean with the international community regarding its nuclear past and generous economic incentives for Iran, including support for Iran's ascension to the World Trade Organization. The P5+1 proposal remains on the table. It is also worth noting that we have made it clear that the Iranians can also bring up whatever other topics they wish in these talks. We will certainly be prepared to bring up other issues of concern to us. The group's only condition for starting talks is that Iran suspend its uranium enrichment work; for our part, we will suspend UN Security Council sanctions for the lifespan of the negotiations. We have even been flexible in considering the duration of negotiations/suspension.
Until that point, we will continue working with the Treasury Department and key international financial institutions to ensure that Iran does not abuse the international financial system to fund its proliferation and terrorism activities. We are joined in efforts to pressure Iran outside of the UN framework by allies such as France, which recently announced its support for imposing broader EU sanctions on the Iran.
I hope that gives you an idea of how we are working to establish both sides of the equation – incentives and disincentives. In our view diplomacy still has a lot of legs left, but in order for it to succeed we need to keep working both sides of the isolation/engagement coin.
Ron in Kansas writes:
@ Kenneth in Canada --
As you state you are a historian and as such are unabashed by propositions of equality which fall short of your well versed opinion; I have a question for you.
How would you equate the current world struggles for freedom, democracy, and aristocracy, dictatorship with the transitional periods in the Greek, Roman, and Ottoman empires?
I have always found it amazing how easily the "ignorance is bliss" tends to allow those who purportedly know the answers to comment on things without ever sharing their vast knowledge as to what the better way is and what if any the expected results would be.
PS: Speaking of bankruptcy (Democracy,Communism) which one's usually go broke first?
Kenneth in Canada writes:
@ Ron in Kansas -- It must have slipped your mind, because the more things change, the more they remain same. That is my answer to your question.
Freedom struggles, democracy, aristocracy and dictatorship are the result of laxness on the part of citizenry. If we sit back on our laurels, we are sure, to have bad things happen. Thus the watchwords of every citizen should be, keep an eye on government, it can fail you when you least expect it.
Speaking of bankruptcy Communism & capitalism (not democracy) which one usually goes broke first? Have you not heard of the great depression of 1929 in the U.S. when people jumped out of the windows of New York Skyscrapers. That was a Capitalist failure, was it not? You jumped to the conclusion that democracy was capitalism, it is not!
But, I must add further, that neither is the pseudo-communism of the Soviets a form of democracy.
Kenneth in Canada writes:
I am glad that you people are testing me out. Because, I have not had such an interesting discussion in a long time. So I appreciate it.
But, this I must tell you. I have crossed the world six times. and every time I did, I learned something new.
Not being of a mind to sit down in one place, gave me the opportunity to travel, but more than that, I was able to absorb everything that came my way. I cannot imagine myself sitting down at a desk, because that would kill my spirit. I began to realize that I had the capacity to retain anything that I read or told. In time my friends thought that I was a computer. That was something that never entered my head. Now, I write articles on journeys and on varied subjects. They do make a difference. Because most of them are published, and that also in many languages worldwide. I am also an artist, which is only by the way.
I have been following the political world and have written on that subject as well.
So, anyone who wants to, may fire away
Kashif in America writes:
Hey let me ask you guys why you think democracy is the solution to all of life's problems. I mean if you think about it rationally all democracy is, is the ability of the majority of a population to impose it's will on the minority similar to what Nazi Germany did to it's population. SO what may i ask will democracy do when someone you people obviously hate like Ahmadenijad gets elected or Hamas and you try placing sanctions on it for being elected democratically. The argument for a Bill of Rights universally is a stronger and more important step for equality then the spread of democracy which has elected officials that in my opinion are just another dime a dozen politician that promises their people the moon, simply ridiculous what politicians will say to get elected and then get elected and give nothing they promise the people. Call me cynical and pessimistic as you inevitably might but some people call people with opinions like mine realists.
Karl in Canada writes:
This thing with Iran has nothing to do with WMDs or terror or anything else but what lies under the earth in that region.
This is a chess game that the U.S. cannot win because they want to play football!!!
Susan in Maryland writes:
Neither U..S nor any nation has the right to tamper with Iran's economy. That is economic warfare, it's immoral, and it doesn't work. In "Shock Doctrine: The Rise of Disaster Capital," Naomi Klein spelled out just what's going on when the US Congress, perversely influenced by neoconservatives, voted for HR 1400. Ed Royce gleefully described the hoped-for effect of the legislation: it will create hyperinflation in Iran, and will strangle Iran's ability to process natural gas, "hopefully," says Royce, causing riots among the Iranian people, that will lead to regime change.
Klein explains that a crisis is required to enable the creation of a "blank page" to get "Shock Doctrine" rolling. Neoconservatives see a crisis such as the collapse of the Iranian economy as a brief window of opportunity for which neoconservatives are prepared to go in swiftly, before the victims of the crisis are able to recover from the trauma of the crisis; deploy the irreversible policies of their choice, such as Bremer did in Iraq; and stand back and admire their handiwork.
Klein explains that such practices cause rage in the people on whom they are imposed and, she argues, the neocons ought to know better: Keynes pointed out in 1920 in "The Consequences of the Peace," that disregarding the wishes of the people and imposing on them onerous policies not of their own devising is dangerous; the people will react with rage, like that preceding WWII.
On another level, the entire direction and purpose of the plan McCormack describes is a rehash of the same policy failures the West has been pursuing since WWI and should be rejected. It's so childish that he should be embarrassed to be bruiting it about. The US has not yet figured out, nearly 70 years into its involvement with the Middle East, that attempting to play one power off against another will backfire sooner or later, more likely sooner. Trita Parsi argues articulately and with uncompromising rationality in "Treacherous Alliance - The Secret Dealings of Iran, Israel and the United States," that it's time for the U.S. to deal maturely with the entire Middle East, recognizing that each state actor has interests that demand respect and consideration. Not only is the zero-sum game the wrong--and unjust-- game to play in the Middle East, the US has squandered its moral authority and financial and military ability to enable it to lead that power play.
The U.S. maintained relations with Iran as a buffer against Russia until 1979. Israel stepped into the vacuum at that time, and Israel is eager to retain the favored status it has enjoyed over the last 30 years. But as Walt & Mearsheimer pointed out, that relationship is no longer protecting the interests of the U.S. and should be adjusted: Israel should be treated the same as any other actor in the international community, and dealt with consonant with American values of rule of law and fundamental fairness, not guilt-induced indulgence. Newton's laws ought to be the model for the centrist position the US ought most beneficially to take with respect to all the states in the Middle East.
Back to the drawing board, Mr. McCormack; stay out of Iran's affairs; deal honestly with states who own resources that the US needs; deal morally with Israel, which is oppressing Palestine.
And save the carrots for the salad bar but try the tuna: it stimulates the brain.
Kenneth in Canada writes:
This is for Sean McCormack:
When I read about the carrot and stick proposition, i wanted to laugh. Because, only a donkey would be taken in by such a trick. In the case of Iran you are dealing with humans, and therefore the carrot and stick proposition will not work. What you need to do, is think outside the box.
I do not believe that Iran will come round to the American way of thinking, but that is to be expected. Let's not blame the Iranians alone, because some of the blame lies with the U.S. I wonder if you remember the deliberate shooting down of the Iranian Airline Airbus 300, with some 297 passengers aboard, by the USS Vincennes, on orders of U.S. President Ronald Reagan? If you not, then first study it and tell me that it was right.
Before going any further, I have been in touch with a member of the board of inquiry of the PanAm Airliner blown up over Lockerbie, Scotland and wrote on the issue. A member of the board of inquiry contacted me, after reading my article, and said that I had done a good job of explaining the double standards of justice. If you would like to get a copy of that message, please try to contact me, and I will furnish you with a copy.
The issue of Iran is not something that can be settled without many overtures, that the U.S. should make. Remember the first step to peace, is not by the cannon, but by the dove. Every country reacts to issues differently. Thus you will solve the Iran issue immediately. But, there must also be resolve on your part to meet them halfway, otherwise this issue will not go away.
That does not mean that you should give up trying. But keep at it, and somewhere, somehow there is bound to be a breakthrough.
Do you really believe that countries want a war in that region? I do not believe that neither the Iranians, nor the Americans want a war, because it's too costly.
S in Washington, DC writes:
@ Kenneth in Canada -- "The issue of Iran is not something that can be settled without many overtures, that the U.S. should make. Remember the first step to peace, is not by the cannon, but by the dove. Every country reacts to issues differently. Thus you will solve the Iran issue immediately."
Uh, Kenneth, don't you think you've contributed enough to this forum? Methinks thou doth like to hear yourself speak too much over matters of which you have no, trust me, no experience. You are showing naivete, and are not knowledgeable on the subject matter of Iran. Take it from someone who has been dealing in law enforcement and intelligence matters for many years: Iran is the source, from which all terrorism flows, in some form, in some fashion, it all crosses through the Islamic Republic of Iran.
And as far as "dealing" and "overtures" to Iran. They are useless. This is not a country that compromises or does anything other than what the Revolutionary Guard and the mullahs dictate-and what they dictate is: terror.
The Persians do not "negotiate"- they are not like the Sunnis-Sunnis are, for the most part, rational, reasonable people, they do compromise, they are part of the world order, and their word can be trusted. This is not true of the Persians. The Islamic Republic does not "conduct" foreign policy-that's only an illusion, a superficial not to make people think that iran is part of the world order-it is not-it is only the Persian way, or the highway.
And because of that, the Islamic Republic must be divested of the ability to construct nuclear weapons, it must be divested, and deconstructed-the sooner, the better-it must be done to bring some measure of stability to the world, and this country is the only country that can do that-and it will have to be done by force, there is no other way with the Persians: The Islamic Republic of Iran has got to go.
Kenneth in Canada writes:
@ S in Washington -- Don't forget, that this is the same Iran, that in 1953 you in the U.S. used as a buffer against many Middle Eastern countries, by setting up your own puppet, Mohammed Reza Pahlavi as the Shah-in-Shah of Iran. Thus, the naivete is not on my part, but yours.
I beg to differ. Being knowledgeable, and dealing with law enforcement and intelligence, does not make you any expert on Iran either. Again, I see your typical American attitude takes over as being someone of authority. I think its time you put that theory away. These certainly are not the days of Teddy Roosevelt's gun boat diplomacy. Because, there are a lot of people who carry guns nowadays.
Secondly, Persia became Iran in 1927, so why are you still stuck in that time period of history? It was General Pahlavi, the father of the 1953 puppet who ousted the real Shah-in-Shah of Persia, and renamed the country after the Plains of Iran, where he hailed from.
Kenneth in Canada writes:
@ Susan in Maryland -- What you have written is very clear with regards to non-intervention of one nation into the internal affairs of another. If people would only take the time to think out the situation, we might get somewhere. Be that Iran or any other nation, there are areas that are exclusive, in which there should be no interference by the U.S.
If anything, there are fanatics on both sides of the equation. Those who judge Iran, should also judge their own actions, both past and present. All, I see is a one-sided approach, which creates even more resistance from the other. If, some other country were brought in, that was neutral, we might just see a difference in Iran's attitude. Otherwise we are caught between a rock and a hard place. Only cool head can solve problems.
Eric in New Mexico writes:
@ S in Washington -- I would agree with you in all aspects save one, and from one who has worked a very long time helping bring some of the issues out of the dark, and working w/ the many democratic, republican and monarchist opposition groups to help them have a voice in the matter I can say for a fact that they would be highly insulted at your use of the word "Persian" in your post.
See, they, real "Persians" consider themselves an "occupied country" by political Islam, and the radical thuggies practicing it. Once you understand that, then you'll understand why I've told the powers that be in this gov. that we've utterly failed to tap into the greatest ally in the war on terrorism. The Iranian people and their thirst for freedom from theocracy, and ethical infants.
It's true that diplomacy without teeth is a toothless beggar. This isn't a choice between diplomacy and bombs, diplomacy doesn't stop when bombs fall, but it is said to have failed upon them falling on someone's pointy little head. There is no purely diplomatic solution, nor is there a purely military one. Today we are engaged in both.
The Iranian government uses the word "enemy" to describe the US. Undersecretary Burns recently described U.S. viewpoint thus:
(Interview on The Charlie Rose Show, October 1, 2007)
CHARLIE ROSE: Are they our most extreme enemy?
UNDER SECRETARY BURNS: Enemy is a strong word.
CHARLIE ROSE: OK, that`s why I`m using it.
UNDER SECRETARY BURNS: I think they`re an adversary of the United States, an
adversary because .
CHARLIE ROSE: The Iranians are not an enemy of the United States.
UNDER SECRETARY BURNS: Well, enemy, adversary. Usually you think about an enemy
CHARLIE ROSE: Yes.
UNDER SECRETARY BURNS: . as a country that you`re fighting in strict diplomatic terms. You are fighting in an armed conflict. We`re not doing that with Iran right now, but they are a country that is absolutely opposed to everything that we are trying to accomplish in the Middle East, from Iraq to a Palestinian peace, to stability in Afghanistan.
--end excerpt--
Seems to me if our military is openly tracking down Iranian agents responsible for blowing our countrymen up in Iraq, then we are in an "open" military confrontation, if not in an undeclared state of war with Iran.
All semantics aside, I think it's about time folks understood that while we may not ( or the Dept of State may not) consider this the acts of an enemy of the United States, THEY DO.
Nor should anyone pin hopes on any "reformers", "behavior change" , or engagement policy unless it involves the early retirement of ethical infants, at the hands of the Iranian people.
The choice to "go back to the mosque, preace peace, so one may live in peace" should be offered as "carrot" before the big "stick" out of a B-52 drives the point home.
Brad in Florida writes:
Mr. McCormick:
Unfortunately, you're going to have to moderate comments more strictly ... otherwise, it's going to turn into the type of spitting match we see all over the web.
Unless I'm mistaken in believing you're aiming for a coherent, civil discussion of policy, that is.
Eric in New Mexico writes:
@ Kenneth in Canada -- "What makes you Americans think that you can order the world around?
If and when you attack Iran, I hope that the Russians and the Chinese launch a preemptive strike on the U.S. This will carry a message to the American people, that to every move, there is a counter move. If one plays chess, one learns that.
For the last five years, I have been urging the Chinese and Russian Governments to re-arm, and be ready to attack the U.S. itself. No country since World War II, has been more involved in the overthrow of foreign governments than the U.S. Thus, steps must be taken to bring it under control by whatever means is necessary.
The world of today, does not need a rogue cop, like the U.S. to deal with its problems. Sometimes it becomes very necessary to imprison the rogue cop. Right now, I do not see any way out, without a direct attack on the U.S. itself. Enough is enough. Let us have an end to the madness that the U.S. has exported to a peaceful world." Posted on Wed Oct 10, 2007
-end comment-
The Dept of State has posted your comment and let it stand in the great American tradition of freedom of speech..or as we in the wild wild West of my country sometimes interpret thusly: "That when a fool wishes to hang himself with his own words, we'll gladly supply the rope."
As a private citizen of this nation that you have sought to have preemptively attacked by nuclear powers, there are certain responsibilities I have as a citizen to "protect from all enemies, foreign and domestic."
You should now be duly informed of the ramifications of your solicitations to commit global genocide by nuclear war (for that would be the inevitable result should anyone actually think your insane advice worthy of implementation.) on a most personal of levels.
1. You are in standing violation of Article 3c of the Convention on the Prevention of Genocide. "public encitement to commit" You may access this doc. on the UN's website if you wish.
2. As a private citizen of Canada, The Canadian government, should it be informed of your above post on this site, may choose to persue this matter with you in a court of law.
3. You have sought to bring grevious harm upon my children and family, and now it's personal with me.
4. Your post will be forwarded by me to the Canadian Ambassador to the US with a formal complaint attached, as is my right as a US citizen to do so.
5. You may have violated Canadian laws as well as international law in seeking to influence foreign governments to take action that would result in utter disaster upon Canada and it peoples. ( something that must have escaped your reasoning apparently)
6. Don't complain to me, don't bother to appologize, I'm having none of it. Yes, every action has its reaction...but this is no game of chess, this is the real world, and you live with the concequence of your actions in it.
Now I believe I have addressed this issue with you in as civil a manner with as much grace as humanly possible under the circumstance.
But one thing you should also know is that my grandfather helped build the very first a-bomb, so if you have any illusions that I make idle jest here Kenneth, that should erase any doubt you have of my seriousness in this matter.
( To moderator: please pardon the off topic subject matter, it was in the interest of global peace and security)
Susan in Maryland writes:
Sean, Your response to Kenneth piqued my curiosity.
Please tell us more about your extensive background in law enforcement & intelligence. Where did you go to college? What did you study? How long have you been with the State Dept?
Also, have you discussed Iran with Trita Parsi? or Vali Ansari or Ray Takeyh? Have you read Herodotus on Persia, where the father of history reports that the Persians are the most honest people he had ever encountered, and that honesty was not only a virtue but a practical matter in the Persian world view?
Do you consider Dr. William Polk and Zbigniew Brzezinski to be more or less knowledgeable than you with regard to the Middle East?
You say "Iran is the source of all terrorism," and that Iran will not negotiate but the Sunnis do." Do you completely disregard Dore Gold's thesis, that Saudi Arab (Sunni) Wahabbism is the source of radical Islam that motivates Osama binLaden, Al Qaeda, and jihadists?
Sen. Jos. Lieberman asserts that Iran is responsible for the death of 170 US soldiers in Iraq? Who is responsible for the deaths of the other 3,650 US soldiers who have died in Iraq?
How are we to understand Iran's release of the British sailors and of the Iranian-Americans: are those actions emblematic of a government inimical to "dealing and overtures?"
Did Iran torture those people or, for that matter, the 444 embassy hostages? Did the US torture any captives it has taken recently? How about America's ally, Israel, which levelled half of the sovereign state of Lebanon rather than negotiate for 3 soldiers; Israel, whose Mossad trained the SAVAK that terrified Iranians under the shah such that Iranians chose otherwise hated Islamic leaders rather than continue to live under a shah?
@ Brad in Florida -- Who would you silence: those who agree with Nicholas Burns and Sean McCormack or anybody who sees larger realities and facts and draw conclusions more critically than doMessrs Burns and McCormack?
Kenneth in Canada writes:
@ Eric in New Mexico --
I am very glad that you have taken me to task. But, what I did was scare the hell out of those who think being bigger gives them a right to threaten other nations. To keep you informed that others also have their fingers at the button, not the U.S. alone. It was a warning to those who use threats to get their own way against smaller nations. If you continue down the dark road of naked aggression you will end up like Nazi Germany.
The fanatics, are no diffent today, to those who ran America during the McCarthy era, and they are just as viscious to boot. All I ever heard them say, is that we can wipe out this or than country. They have this unique outlook that only they exist in the world today, and can do as they very well please. Be careful what you ask for, you may get it.
As for attempting to put fear in me, about my treatise, is a futile attempt, because, it will not scare me. You people think that everyone is scared of your power, I beg to differ. There are those of us, that fear very little, because we came through hell already.
As for your family, I am rather taken aback. I have not even mentioned them. It actually means that you are now aware of the consequences of any nulcear war, by attacking any country. Thus, we can all sit back safely, knowing that it will not happen in our lifetime.
If what, I said, was said in the early 1930s, the Nazi Germany would not have taken a chance, but stopped in its tracks. Millions of lives would have been saved by such actions, but there were not many fearless individuals to openly threaten Adolf Hitler.
Have you lost anyone in World War II? If you did, you would not be so gung ho about attacking any attack any country. Because the results are still with us today. I am glad that those fanatics that want war, are not in the drivers seat. Because, as funny as it seems, I abhor war and its results. Even the loss of life in Afghanistan and Iraq, make me sick. The useless blood letting will in the end serve no useful purpose. Families are destroyed and innocent children suffer. If anything, I am very glad to have written that message, because, it seems to have woken you to the reality of war and its consequences.
You see, I visited Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and saw its results. And you think, that I want a war? You have to be joking. When you have seen what I have seen, you too, will follow the ways of PEACE. If one person dies as a result of war, it is too much. When a nation is attacked, multiply that a thousand times over. Are you willing to allow that sort of carnage to happen and sit back feeling very smug? I am afraid, that I am not going to allow another war to happen, my lifetime has already seen the death and devastation it his brought millions.
So Eric, keep a stiff upper lip, and take care of your family. God keep them safe from all danger, especially from man's madness, which is war.
Oh by the way, in case I forget, I belong to a group that wants nuclear disarmament for the whole world. You see shock treatment has its merits!
S (Schmetterling) in U.S.A. writes:
I have the strong impression that Sean McCormack and the rest of the Public Affairs staff at State are really having a big laugh over some of the comments found in DipNote-Dips there are!
@ Susan in Maryland -- I do hate to disappoint you, given how steadfastly you hold to your beliefs and are so keen on the authors whom you like to cite as the gospel, but the "S" does not stand for "Sean" as in "Sean McCormick" by any means-LOL!
@ Brad in Florida -- I thought your posts were excellent-both of them. It has been my observation through the years that good lawyers tend to agree with each other, more often than they disagree! (smile)
@ Eric in New York -- Interesting observations-I can't disagree with your conclusion of course, but would add that there has to come a time, a cut-off point for the U.S. overtures towards Iran to cease (and those overtures that have been made and are being made by the U.S. towards Iran are substantial, as the "real" Sean McC has pointed out (smile). But ultimately, as Brad says, when one side refuses to seriously discuss settlement, and/or abjectly refuses to compromise at all on the terms of such settlement, then you have to go to trial, or in this case, war. The situation is complicated in Iran as there are forces at work (the Revolutionary Guard) who are more powerful even than the "democratically" elected president, Ahmadinejad. Ahmadinejad, (much as he wants the world to believe otherwise), is not really in control of the country, nor even are the mullahs-it's the terrorist Revolutionary Guard who are really calling the shots, and there are a LOT of dangerous rogue factions within that organization. So even if some within Iran wanted to make concessions in their position, the Guard is not going to allow it.
The consequences of Iran's failure to comply with the UN mandated conditions to cease uranium enrichment are too momentous for the future of the world, just to let it go with meaningless sanctions. When the P5+1 extends the threat of sanctions indefinitely, as well as the time period for Iran to respond, then obviously, Iran gets exactly what it wants, it has bought time to move closer to its goal of nuclear weaponizing, sanctions that ultimately will have little practical effect on Iran's daily operations.
The key is Russia-but if Russia is going to continue the above-described scenario of endless sanctions and negotiations, then the U.S. will at some point have to move on Iran with or without Russia-sooner, rather than later.
Eric in New Mexico writes:
I wish the arms merchants of the world would invent a smart bomb that would wise people up.
Eric in New Mexico writes:
@ Eric in New York --
Personally, I thought the litigation end of things (or "trial") was being handled in the UN.
I think your reference to war would be more accurately placed in the context of the sentencing phase of the "proceedings"....
After Iran's government is duly convicted(as it should be) for crimes against humanity against the people of Iraq, Afghanistan, Argentina, Lebanon, Palestine/Israel, USA, UK, France, Russia, and several more that have suffered terrorism at the hands of the leading state spnsor of terrorism and its proxi.
Take all the various UN resolutions violated in the process and the threats to wipe nations off the map, cram them down the General Assembly's throat, and force a vote to revoke the Islamic Republic of Iran's membership to the UN.
Force the concept of "responsibility to protect" to be implemented in full, and without delay.
Then as it is in the common interest, may the U.S., NATO, China, Russia, and like minded nations make this the quickest and most effective regime replacement therapy ever concieved in combining force and resource, enabling the UN to manage an interim protectorate that builds the institutions of representitive government w/separation of mosque and state.
As long as the leading sponsor of terrorism exists as safe haven next door to the fledgling democracies we've helped establish over the last 5 years, no amount of troops, no amount of diplomacy, and no amount of money spent in nation building will change the dynamics of the instability created by those who want, and have been engaged in war with the U.S. over several decades.
That said, I am in full agreement with the President when he said,
"And the Shia extremists have achieved something that al Qaeda has so far failed to do: In 1979, they took control of a major power, the nation of Iran, subjugating its proud people to a regime of tyranny, and using that nation's resources to fund the spread of terror and pursue their radical agenda."
(Excerpt from speech-President Discusses Global War on Terror
Capital Hilton Hotel ,Washington, D.C.)
We don't want to give them the war they want nor expect....on their terms. We give them the war they are neither prepared for nor able to fight...on our terms.
Sun Tzu had it right.


text:
Welcome to a New TeaDay! As always, welcome one and all to the NewTeaDay, brew some tea and come share what is in your cup with all of us ... all day.
Be sure to check out what is in everyone else's cup as well, either here or in the individual, specific tea forums ... are your TeaTastes similar to others on TC?
Today's Teapoll and discussion topic is all about TEA. Another month has gone by ... So, what was your absolute favorite tea for the month of April? You have 2 poll options.
I am looking forward to hearing what you have to say today! Have a great TeaDay. Bottoms up!

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Gas crews keep busy with routine city projects
MANCHESTER — Recent work by gas crews on heavily traveled urban roads has drawn attention and the company says it is performing routine work throughout its service area and enlarging some lines to accommodate additional customers.
Liberty Utilities, the natural gas supplier for the region, typically has five or six crews working in Manchester at any particular time. Some are performing maintenance while others are relocating lines to accommodate new construction or adding customers to the natural gas system.
"We replace approximately eight miles of gas main per year for various reasons including relocation, city and state projects, reliability and growth," said Liberty spokesman John Shore.
Rising heating oil prices have driven some customers to natural gas, a switch fueled by the perception that gas is cheaper than oil heat during a New England winter.
"A spike in conversions is certainly something that we're seeing," Shore said. Much of the work done by gas companies follow the project scheduling of local public works companies.
"If they are doing work in the street, we take advantage of the opportunity to do work and do improvements to our system at the same time," Shore said.
In some cases, work while a street is being rebuilt is mandated by local rules that require newly paved roads to stay that way for a period of time following the application of a fresh coat of hot top. Some communities restrict spoiling the work of paving crews for as long as five years after a new road surface is in place.


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Address: Unit 8 Wessex Park, Bancombe Rd Trading Est, Somerton, Somerset, TA11 6SB
Telephone:0870 167 0707
Website: Â Ross & Roberts Enforcement Bailiffs
Are Ross & Roberts  Contacting You With Regards to a Fine or Council Tax Arrears?
Bailiff Advice can help you. Â We have a dedicated team with extensive experience and legal training in this area. We will provide you with free advice, we are a confidential service and have extensive experience of advising and supporting people on how to deal with bailiffs and how to resolve their financial issues.
Stopping Bailiff Action – Bailiff Advice Can Do This For You
Bailiff Advice can act on your behalf. We deal directly with Ross & Roberts and your local authority for you, and can usually stop bailiff action within a couple of hours. Once we have stopped the bailiff action we will negotiate an affordable payment plan for you so that you can clear your outstanding arrears or fine.
We are here to advise, support and help. Â For free bailiff advice contact us now on 0800 1777 955
Ross & Roberts Enforcement Bailiffs – What are Your Rights?
Many bailiff companies use underhand and deceitful tactics when collecting outstanding council tax arrears & fines some of these include:
- Breaking In – Bailiffs often threaten that they will break in/return with a locksmith. They can not do this without a warrant obtained from the courts. If you let them into your property, they can return at a later time or date and force entry.
- Third Parties – Often the bailiffs will tell you that they refuse to deal with third parties – they are not able to refuse. If you appoint a third party to negotiate on your behalf they are legally obliged to deal with the third party.
- Unfair Pressure and Excessive Payments –Â Bailiffs will often try to pressure you into paying/agreeing to pay more than you can afford each month. They are not allowed to do this. Bailiff Advice are experienced in negotiating on our clients behalf to achieve an affordable and achievable payment plan.
- Excessive Bailiff Fees –Â Many Bailiffs will try to charge unreasonable amounts for their visits and letters. Bailiff Advice are here to help you with this problem.
What  If Ross & Roberts Enforcement Bailiffs Come To Your Home
Call Bailiff Advice to stop Ross & Roberts Enforcement Bailiffs coming to your home. Â Our team are here to help you and will provide you with the advice and support that you need to stop bailiff action and set up a realistic payment plan. Â Call 0800 1777 955
Ensure that all your doors are locked and windows closed.
- Do not let them into your home under any circumstances.
- Do not feel intimidated, regardless of any threats or demands they may make. Bailiff Advice can stop this happening.
- Do not sign any paperwork
- If you do talk to them, talk through your door, do not open it.
How can Bailiff Advice help you with Ross & Roberts Enforcement Bailiffs?
- We can provide you with free advice
- We can stop bailiff action for you
- We can Stop Ross & Roberts from contacting you
- We can negotiate an affordable and sustainable repayment plan for you
- We can take the pressure off and handle everything for you, giving you peace of mind.


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The most prestigious tournament in Badminton. Competing as individuals in five events, Men's singles, Women's singles, Men's and Women's doubles and Mixed doubles, success conveys the title of World Champion on the winner(s).
First held in 1977 and originally being held every two years the World Championships has since 2003 been held every year except Olympic years, where the winner of the Olympic title is considered the 'world champion' in all but name.
China Badminton Assocition have hosted the prestigious event once in 1987 in Beijing. After twenty -six years China, once again with the cooperation of Guangzhou Badminton Association will host the 2013 edition in Guangzhou from 05 - 11 August 2013. The tournament will be held at 10,000 capacity TianHe Indoor Gymnasium . The championships will see approximately 400 of the world's top players representing five continents competing for the title of World Champion.
Tournament Information
Schedule 5 - 11 August
Draft Schedule
Practice and Main Court Arena
Draw Ceremony:
Welcome Dinner :
Visit to Li Yongbo Academy
Mr. LI Yongbo would like to invite Member Association participating at the World Championships to pay a visit to Dongguan LYB Badminton School in the afternoon on 3rd or 4th August, 2013(TBC). Interested MA's are advise to contact China Badminton Associtation: email@example.com
Qualification process
List Players Eligible in Phase I , II and III
Main and Qualifying Report: Version 2
Seeding Report: MS WS MD WD XD published 18 July
Team Managers Meeting:
Date: Sunday 4 August 2013
Time: 3.00pm
Venue : Press Conference Room Tian He Stadium(Team managers please take note of the changes. Please contact the LO for further information)
Related Links
» Destination Dubai World Superseries Finals
» Tournament Calendar
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» BWF Destination Dubai Rankings
» Head to Head
» Contact us
Tournament Calendar
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Unit 17.05 Level 17
Amoda Building
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55100 Kuala Lumpur
Tel: +6-03-2141 7155
Fax: +6-03-2143 7155


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YOUR WINNER for 5/28/14:
"...Spyral has a mission for you." - Nightwing #30.
Zechs is the lord and master of The Toy Shed, Character Spotlight, and Cartoon Reviews. He's also an aspiring comic book writer trying to get some of his works published on the Outhouse. If there's any greater quality to Zechs, it's that he's an avid fan of comic book characters and would defend them to the bitter end against the companies that use them wrongly. Zechs walks the lonely path in Chicagoland area.


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Stamina Avari Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike
Product Information:
With the space-saving Stamina® Avari® Conversion II Rower/Recumbent Bike, you get two cardiovascular workouts in one. The magnetic resistance gives you a quiet, smooth workout at any resistance level, while the easy-to-reach tension knob allows you to increase or decrease your intensity without interruption. Simply pull the pin and adjust the seat to switch from rowing to biking.
For additional information relating to the Manufacturer's Warranty, please contact 417-889-7011.
- Smooth and quiet magnetic resistance
- Oversized, molded, adjustable foam-padded seat and seatback
- Multi-function monitor displays speed, distance, time, odometer, heart rate and calories burned
- Easy to switch from rowing to biking/biking to rowing
- Oversized foot pedals with adjustable foot straps
- Heavy-duty nylon rowing strap and foam grips
- Adjustable, easy-to-reach, 8-position tension knob
- Hand-grip pulse heart rate monitor on seat handles
- Sturdy, steel frame construction with oversized, aluminum rowing beam
- Folds for easy storage
- Maximum user capacity: 250 lbs
- Folded size: 34" Length x 23.5" Width x 56.5" Height
- Floor size: 74.5" Length x 23.5" Width x 34" Height
- Manufacturer's warranty: 3 years frame and 90 days parts
- Model: A150-335
- Stamina
- Stamina Products
For additional information relating to the Manufacturer's Warranty, please contact 417-889-7011.
Country of Origin: ChinaWeb ID: 12764186
Customer Reviews:
Rated 4.7 out of 5�by 3 reviewers.
Rated 5 out of 5�by Cher54 Two ways to work out and really is space saving We have been very happy with this work out equipment and have owned it for two weeks. So far, it has delivered on all of its advertised promises. Switching from the rowing component to the recumbent bike is indeed easy and we look forward to working out on this for a long time. We are especially pleased with how "space saving " it is and that it is easy to set up for use from the "space saving" mode. Set up was relatively easy and gave my teenage son a good project to work on during one of his winter break days. The box arrived in good shape and everything in it was intact and in good working order. January 11, 2016
Rated 5 out of 5�by Tali0925 Love this Christmas present! I told my significant other that I wanted a rower for Christmas. Imagine my surprise to find not only the rower, but the recumbent bike combination. A perfect choice. It was easy to assemble and it is easy to use / convert. January 5, 2015
Rated 4 out of 5�by Short on square footage Terrible shipping; terrific machine This machine is almost too simple to use and not too difficult to assemble. It's perfect for those with limited space looking for both an upper and lower body workout. Sturdy during use and nearly silent so you can listen to music or watch TV easily. The box was too small and, as a result, arrive dented, partially gaping open and missing a part. My brand new bike is cracked on the bottom and all parts didn't arrive until 3 weeks after I'd paid for it. Once I got over my annoyance with delivery, I've loved it 100%. June 24, 2012
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Salinas Hotels / Motels
General Information About Hotels in Salinas, California
Rentalo.com can help you find the best Salinas hotels and meet your specific lodging needs. Save time finding the best deals using our unique "Inquire Now" service which allows you to compare multiple offers from owners of Salinas motels and hotels. Whether you are planning a family vacation or business trip, we can help you find the best Salinas luxury hotels, Salinas discount hotels in California. Many of our inventory show negotiated rates for your favorite Salinas luxury hotel or Salinas discount hotel, and Salinas motel. Once you find the best Salinas hotel, you can use the "Book Online" button (when available) or the "Send Inquiry" to contact the owner and make your reservation in Salinas or California.
How to Post your Wanted Ad (Inquire All)
Enter your travel dates and number of people traveling (sleeps) and use one of the following search options:
1. Inquire on ALL Hotels / Motels in Salinas. Click "Inquire Now" (Fastest Option - Receive the most Offers)
2. Inquire on Selected Hotels / Motels in Salinas. Click "Check to inquire", then click "Inquire Now" (Time-Saving Option - Receive Offers from Selected Properties)
3. Inquire only on a Specific Salinas Hotel (Take the time to review each property - Receive an offer on the Property you like)


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|By PR Newswire
Article Rating:
|January 28, 2014 08:40 AM EST
ROSLYN HEIGHTS, N.Y., Jan. 28, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- ScrapeDefender launched today a new cloud-based anti-scraping monitoring solution that identifies and blocks suspicious activity to protect websites against content theft from mass scraping. The product provides triple protection levels against web scraping in the areas of vulnerability scanning, monitoring and security.
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140128/PH53558-a)
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20140128/PH53558-b)
ScrapeDefender estimates that losses from web scraping content theft are close to $5 billion annually. According to a recent industry study, malicious non-human-based bot traffic now represents 30% of all website visits. Scrapers routinely target online marketplaces including financial, travel, media, real estate, and consumer-product arenas, stealing valuable information such as pricing and listing data.
ScrapeDefender stops website scraping by identifying and alerting site owners about suspicious activity in near real time. The monitoring system uses intrusion detection-based algorithms and patented technology to analyze network activity for both human and bot-like activity. It was designed from the ground up to work passively with web servers so that the underlying business is not impeded in any way. ScrapeDefender does not require any DNS changes or new hardware.
"Web scraping is growing at an alarming rate and if left unchecked, it is just a matter of time until all sites with useful content will be targeted by competitors harvesting data," said Robert Kane, CEO of ScrapeDefender. "We provide the only solution that scans, monitors and protects websites against suspicious scraping activity, in a way that isn't intrusive."
Irv Chasen, a board member at Bondview, the largest free provider of municipal bond data, said, "Our business is built on providing accurate municipal bond pricing data and related information to professional and retail investors. If competitors are scraping our information and then using it to gain an advantage, it creates a challenging business problem for us. With ScrapeDefender we can easily monitor and stop any suspicious scraping. Their support team made it easy for us to stay proactive and protect our website content."
ScrapeDefender is available as a 24 X 7 managed service or can be customer controlled. Customers are assigned a ScrapeDefender support staff member to help monitor network activity and alerts are automatically sent when suspicious activity is identified. Today's announcement extends ScrapeDefender's scanner, which was introduced in 2011 and remains the only anti-scraping assessment tool on the market that singles out web scraping vulnerabilities.
The ScrapeDefender Suite is available now at www.scrapedefender.com, starting at $79 per month for one domain.
About ScrapeDefender
ScrapeDefender was created by a team of computer security and web content experts with 20 years of experience working at leading organizations such as RSA Security, Goldman Sachs and Getty Images. Our web anti-scraping experts can secure your website to ensure that unauthorized content usage is identified and blocked.
For more media information, contact:
Lisa Hendrickson/LCH Communications for ScrapeDefender
Read more news from ScrapeDefender.
SOURCE ScrapeDefender
In his General Session at DevOps Summit, Asaf Yigal, Co-Founder & VP of Product at Logz.io, will explore the value of Kibana 4 for log analysis and will give a real live, hands-on tutorial on how to set up Kibana 4 and get the most out of Apache log files. He will examine three use cases: IT operations, business intelligence, and security and compliance. This is a hands-on session that will require participants to bring their own laptops, and we will provide the rest.
Jan. 20, 2017 05:15 PM EST Reads: 4,934
With major technology companies and startups seriously embracing IoT strategies, now is the perfect time to attend @ThingsExpo 2016 in New York. Learn what is going on, contribute to the discussions, and ensure that your enterprise is as "IoT-Ready" as it can be! Internet of @ThingsExpo, taking place June 6-8, 2017, at the Javits Center in New York City, New York, is co-located with 20th Cloud Expo and will feature technical sessions from a rock star conference faculty and the leading industry p...
Jan. 20, 2017 05:15 PM EST Reads: 3,797
@DevOpsSummit at Cloud taking place June 6-8, 2017, at Javits Center, New York City, is co-located with the 20th International Cloud Expo and will feature technical sessions from a rock star conference faculty and the leading industry players in the world. The widespread success of cloud computing is driving the DevOps revolution in enterprise IT. Now as never before, development teams must communicate and collaborate in a dynamic, 24/7/365 environment. There is no time to wait for long developm...
Jan. 20, 2017 05:15 PM EST Reads: 3,523
A look across the tech landscape at the disruptive technologies that are increasing in prominence and speculate as to which will be most impactful for communications – namely, AI and Cloud Computing. In his session at 20th Cloud Expo, Curtis Peterson, VP of Operations at RingCentral, will highlight the current challenges of these transformative technologies and share strategies for preparing your organization for these changes. This "view from the top" will outline the latest trends and developm...
Jan. 20, 2017 04:45 PM EST Reads: 1,068
"LinearHub provides smart video conferencing, which is the Roundee service, and we archive all the video conferences and we also provide the transcript," stated Sunghyuk Kim, CEO of LinearHub, in this SYS-CON.tv interview at @ThingsExpo, held November 1-3, 2016, at the Santa Clara Convention Center in Santa Clara, CA.
Jan. 20, 2017 03:00 PM EST Reads: 1,636
When you focus on a journey from up-close, you look at your own technical and cultural history and how you changed it for the benefit of the customer. This was our starting point: too many integration issues, 13 SWP days and very long cycles. It was evident that in this fast-paced industry we could no longer afford this reality. We needed something that would take us beyond reducing the development lifecycles, CI and Agile methodologies. We made a fundamental difference, even changed our culture...
Jan. 20, 2017 02:30 PM EST Reads: 1,113
Things are changing so quickly in IoT that it would take a wizard to predict which ecosystem will gain the most traction. In order for IoT to reach its potential, smart devices must be able to work together. Today, there are a slew of interoperability standards being promoted by big names to make this happen: HomeKit, Brillo and Alljoyn. In his session at @ThingsExpo, Adam Justice, vice president and general manager of Grid Connect, will review what happens when smart devices don't work togethe...
Jan. 20, 2017 02:15 PM EST Reads: 584
The 20th International Cloud Expo has announced that its Call for Papers is open. Cloud Expo, to be held June 6-8, 2017, at the Javits Center in New York City, brings together Cloud Computing, Big Data, Internet of Things, DevOps, Containers, Microservices and WebRTC to one location. With cloud computing driving a higher percentage of enterprise IT budgets every year, it becomes increasingly important to plant your flag in this fast-expanding business opportunity. Submit your speaking proposal ...
Jan. 20, 2017 01:30 PM EST Reads: 5,232
@DevOpsSummit taking place June 6-8, 2017 at Javits Center, New York City, is co-located with the 20th International Cloud Expo and will feature technical sessions from a rock star conference faculty and the leading industry players in the world. @DevOpsSummit at Cloud Expo New York Call for Papers is now open.
Jan. 20, 2017 01:30 PM EST Reads: 3,588
"There's a growing demand from users for things to be faster. When you think about all the transactions or interactions users will have with your product and everything that is between those transactions and interactions - what drives us at Catchpoint Systems is the idea to measure that and to analyze it," explained Leo Vasiliou, Director of Web Performance Engineering at Catchpoint Systems, in this SYS-CON.tv interview at 18th Cloud Expo, held June 7-9, 2016, at the Javits Center in New York Ci...
Jan. 20, 2017 01:30 PM EST Reads: 5,726
SYS-CON Events announced today that Dataloop.IO, an innovator in cloud IT-monitoring whose products help organizations save time and money, has been named "Bronze Sponsor" of SYS-CON's 20th International Cloud Expo®, which will take place on June 6-8, 2017, at the Javits Center in New York City, NY. Dataloop.IO is an emerging software company on the cutting edge of major IT-infrastructure trends including cloud computing and microservices. The company, founded in the UK but now based in San Fran...
Jan. 20, 2017 01:00 PM EST Reads: 2,573
20th Cloud Expo, taking place June 6-8, 2017, at the Javits Center in New York City, NY, will feature technical sessions from a rock star conference faculty and the leading industry players in the world. Cloud computing is now being embraced by a majority of enterprises of all sizes. Yesterday's debate about public vs. private has transformed into the reality of hybrid cloud: a recent survey shows that 74% of enterprises have a hybrid cloud strategy.
Jan. 20, 2017 12:30 PM EST Reads: 4,345
Discover top technologies and tools all under one roof at April 24–28, 2017, at the Westin San Diego in San Diego, CA. Explore the Mobile Dev + Test and IoT Dev + Test Expo and enjoy all of these unique opportunities: The latest solutions, technologies, and tools in mobile or IoT software development and testing. Meet one-on-one with representatives from some of today's most innovative organizations
Jan. 20, 2017 12:30 PM EST Reads: 1,648
WebRTC is the future of browser-to-browser communications, and continues to make inroads into the traditional, difficult, plug-in web communications world. The 6th WebRTC Summit continues our tradition of delivering the latest and greatest presentations within the world of WebRTC. Topics include voice calling, video chat, P2P file sharing, and use cases that have already leveraged the power and convenience of WebRTC.
Jan. 20, 2017 12:30 PM EST Reads: 3,184
SYS-CON Events announced today that Super Micro Computer, Inc., a global leader in Embedded and IoT solutions, will exhibit at SYS-CON's 20th International Cloud Expo®, which will take place on June 7-9, 2017, at the Javits Center in New York City, NY. Supermicro (NASDAQ: SMCI), the leading innovator in high-performance, high-efficiency server technology, is a premier provider of advanced server Building Block Solutions® for Data Center, Cloud Computing, Enterprise IT, Hadoop/Big Data, HPC and E...
Jan. 20, 2017 12:15 PM EST Reads: 5,833


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Artist Collection: (4 of 42)< Previous | Next >
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follow the windby alain etchepare
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- France / Tarnos - June 2007
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More about alain etchepare
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- Artist Biography
- Born on December 27th 1965 in Biarritz. I live actualy in France and Turkey. Through most of my pictures, I like to tell about the importance, the beauty, the strength but also the vulnerability of our environment. I like to divert reality in order to discover something totally different. Man ...


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Overcast ~
High: 55°F ~ Low: 46°F
Tuesday, Jan. 24, 2017
Garden Gleanings - Pond-ectomy What??Posted Saturday, May 3, 2008, at 12:08 PM
I had it all planned this morning. We picked up a load of wood from a friend of ours and I was going to empty the trailer and cut the wood into firewood pieces.
Yup, that was what I was going to do, but when I got down to the kitchen, my mother-in-law mentioned that the pond had no water in it. Now I thought she meant it had not filled up from the rain, but no, it had very little water in it!
Yikes! Occasionally the watercress blocks the water flow and diverts it over the edges and this time it REALLY emptied it. I got a garbage can and filled it with water to put the fish in and started to clean the watercress out. The I decided that since the pond was almost empty, I might as well clean out the build-up in there too.
I never did get all the fish out and when I accidentally grabbed Snappy I barely missed a finger bite. I did not want to put him in with the fish so I got another bucket but in the meantime he had disappeared again into the muddy water.
It was then that I noticed someone crawling over my bare feet. I could not grab him with my hands because I could not see him in the muddy water and I could not seem catch him with the net, so Snappy stayed on my feet until I was done cleaning. Now that is a bonding experience, but one I can wait a long time to do again. I was afraid if I wiggled my toes, he would sample one.
Oh, in case you have missed my blogs before, Snappy is a snapping turtle who adopted our fish pond a year or two ago as a baby. He comes up to the surface and we feed him every day with the fish. So far he has not tried to eat one of them, but eventually we will have to move him. He is fussy too! Won't eat turtle food, just a red, fish shaped treat from the goldfish.
Anyway, got the pond cleaned out, cleared the water pump for the third time and refilled the pond. Now, back to the firewood.
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So did you ever figure out why there was no water? I had a very slow leak in my pond. I think I figured out where it's coming from. Will know for sure in a few days, if the water level stays up or goes down again. Mine I think, was a filter with too much muck build up, directing water flow over the side of the rocks. I'm hoping that was the problem.
-- Posted by KoiNutz on Mon, May 19, 2008, at 9:13 PM
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Steve Mills and his wife have one daughter. They previously owned two coffee/ice cream shops, currently operate an internet sales company and teach classes, but his primary job involves the paper industry worldwide. Hobbies and interests lie in gardening, photography, recorded music and of course, their pets.
Hot topicsHas every presidency been judged like Trump's, before it ever starts?
(135 ~ 11:03 PM, Jan 23)
Yes, I withdraw my decision to not close down posts.
Have you felt your thumbs itching? Just a little?
Calling all people who like to fish.
If you have a creative bone, believe in recycling, repurposing and need a good read


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Here's how RW members rated this race in the past (57 votes).
In short: Excellent downhill for the last few miles, getting to the top in the 1st place was hard work thoughDate of review: December 20, 2004
In short: In England's green and pleasant landIn full: What they said! | | VDate of review: December 19, 2004
In short: I echo what Flatters has already said.In full: I even found some of the slight downward slopes between the hills a struggle, never gave me time to recover.And I certainly agree about the strobing effect on the sun through the fence, I was glad when that ended.Date of review: December 19, 2004
In short: It was good weather and the views were great, you just had to run up some big hills to see it!In full: Quite a tough run as it is nearly all uphill for the first 4 miles. Great views when you get up there. It was beautiful weather in 2004 which did mean there was some ice on the road so you had to be careful. The oddest bit was near the end where you run pass a reservoir. It is surrounded by palisade fencing which the low winter sun shines through. When you run past it creates a strobe effect. Could it be an epileptic fit inducer?Loved the race and would do again.Date of review: December 19, 2004
In short: Don't hesitate to do this one - perfect build up before christmasDate of review: December 15, 2004
In short: Breathtaking race !In full: 5 miles uphill, including a mountain goat climb up Geoffry Hill, on icy roads with all views obscured by morning mist.2 miles downhill at 3 mins a mile faster than normal pace ! Fantastic race, a real challenge and an exhillerating experience flying the last two downhill miles. If I ever recover from injury this and Blackpool Beach 10k will be first on my calendar every time.Date of review: November 2, 2004
Date of review: August 24, 2004
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More:Responding in Times of Crisis -- Syria
On January 27 and 28, 2013, Assistant Secretary of State for Population, Refugees, and Migration Anne C. Richard, and USAID Assistant Administrator for Democracy, Conflict, and Humanitarian Assistance Nancy Lindborg visited Syrian refugees in Jordan. They visited the Zaatari refugee camp, a refugee processing center at a Syria-Jordan border crossing, and a food voucher distribution center.
The United States is committed to helping the innocent children, women, and men affected by the ongoing conflict in Syria. On January 29, President Obama announced $155 million in additional humanitarian assistance for the Syrian people. President Obama said, "The relief we send doesn't say 'Made in America,' but make no mistake -- our aid reflects the commitment of the American people."
President Obama continued, "We're under no illusions. The days ahead will continue to be very difficult. But what's clear is that the regime continues to weaken and lose control of territory. The opposition continues to grow stronger. More Syrians are standing up for their dignity. The Assad regime will come to an end. The Syrian people will have their chance to forge their own future. And they will continue to find a partner in the United States of America."


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Rumours about Nvidia Corp.'s possible entering the market of central processing units (CPUs) have been circulating since the year 2000, well before unified shader architecture or computing shaders, but the company has never confirmed such plans. But now that the intentions have been reaffirmed, it looks like Nvidia has been working on a microprocessor, or, at least, related technologies for quite some time now.
Graphics processing units (GPUs) and central processing units used to have almost nothing in common a decade ago, but huge advances in the graphics chip design as well as the evolution of CPUs have greatly moved both towards each other: GPUs are now much more programmable than back in the days, whereas microprocessors now feature many cores, built-in memory controllers and will soon even gain graphics engines. So, the same way that consumer electronics is converging with personal computer, CPUs are converging with GPUs.
Nvidia completely understands that convergence and has been preparing to enter the market of microprocessors as well as other chips for many years.
Firstly, Nvidia joined HyperTransport Consortium at the time when the technology was called Lighting Data Transport and was primarily known as a universal bus for next-generation CPUs by Advanced Micro Devices. This allowed Nvidia to get a bus for potential microprocessors as well as other chips and also let the company to enter the market of chipsets, first with AMD- and then with Intel-compatible core-logic.
Secondly, Nvidia entered Silicon-on-Insulator process technology consortium. While the technology can be used to produce various components and chips, it is primarily used to make complex leading-edge microprocessors based on x86, ARM or Power architectures.
Thirdly, back in January '09 Nvidia replaced its chief scientist David Kirk with William Dally, who is known for his expertise in parallel computing technologies as well as work on Cell/Larrabee-like microprocessors. Some even claim that Nvidia has been hiring microprocessor specialists from Stexar for several years now, hence, the appointment of Mr. Dally may be just a part of wider CPU-related hiring program.
Now that the company presumably has microprocessor design specialists, the rights to use HyperTransport bus and some degree of expertise in SOI process technology, it seems clearly that Nvidia is working on CPUs or complex system-on-chip devices with a microprocessing unit inside. The question is when the company plans to release something that will compete against AMD and Intel. The answer to the question is simple: once AMD and Intel completely conquer the market of platforms by integrating crucial system components into their microprocessors there will be no place for Nvidia. Once this happens, it will make sense for the latter to begin promoting its own platforms with own CPUs or SoCs. It is very likely to happen rather sooner than later...
Tags: Nvidia, AMD, , Intel, x86


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It is perlcrete (mixture 1:6 of portland cement and perlite). Whole thing cost about $400 to build.Firebrick cost about $1.46 each.If I were to do it again I would not build it on the ground. I may move it onto a stand built of 4" x4".


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The Principles of Fair Agency Compensation
May 3, 2011
Representatives from the 4As, the WPP Group, and TBWA Worldwide discussed the principles of fair agency compensation.
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Annual checkups are an important part of keeping your dog healthy and happy, but it is important to bear in mind that canines age faster than people. VCA Animal Hospitals reports that most dog breeds are the equivalent of middle-aged by the time they are six years old, but big dogs age faster than smaller ones. By the time a larger-breed canine reaches his sixth birthday, he might be considered a geriatric canine.
The best course of action to determine how often you should be bringing your pet to the veterinarian is to talk to the doctor and find out what they recommend for your specific animal based on the medical history, breed and age of the pet. Routine wellness visits are the most effective way to catch problems early on. This may include giving shots to dogs, blood work, a visual inspection and possibly even a urinalysis, according to VCA.
The Times Record News of Wichita Falls, Texas, reports that proper medical treatment can extend a pet's life, but their routine might need to change to accommodate any illnesses that may require special care. No matter how attentive you are to your dog's health, issues can still develop, and it is best to be prepared for the worst.


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Employment at St. Cloud State University
Classified Positions (Maintenance, Clerical, Technical and Professional Positions) - Internal Applicants Only
Classified positions posted on this site are ONLY available to current St. Cloud State University employees. To be eligible to bid, an employee must have the same class designation as the vacancy and must currently have either a different shift, or a different work area, or a different employment condition.
Classified Positions - Open Competitive
When a position is not filled during the internal bidding process, it can then be opened to others and is posted on the MMB website. To apply or search for an open classified position visit www.mn.gov/mmb/careers/.
|Bargaining Unit
|Date Posted
|Atwood Memorial Center


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DUBLIN (AP) — About 10,000 people have marched through Dublin and observed a minute's silence in memory of the Indian dentist who died of blood poisoning in an Irish hospital after being denied an abortion.
Saturday's protest stopped outside the office of Prime Minister Enda Kenny, where many lit candles and held pictures of Savita Halappanavar.
The 31-year-old died Oct. 28 one week after being hospitalized with severe pain at the start of a miscarriage. She was 17 weeks pregnant with her first child. Doctors refused her requests to remove the fetus until its heartbeat stopped four days after her hospitalization. Her widower and activists say she might have survived had the fetus been removed sooner.
Speakers at Saturday's rally demanded that the government guarantee women's right to abortion in life-threatening circumstances.
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The special Slow Food membership offer has been extended until October 15th! A donation of any amount until October 15th will make you a member of Slow Food for a year. Just click here: Slow Food USA membership page.
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Membership drive extended
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Skip to comments.Mark Steyn: Russia is dying and Islamists will grab parts of the carcass
Posted on 10/30/2005 11:04:36 AM PST by Dundee
Mark Steyn: Russia is dying and Islamists will grab parts of the carcass
REMEMBER the months before 9/11? The new US President had his first meeting with the Russian President. "I looked the man in the eye and found him very straightforward and trustworthy," George W. Bush said after two hours with Vladimir Putin. "I was able to get a sense of his soul." I'm all for speaking softly and carrying a big stick, but that's way too soft.
Some experts started calling Vlad the most Westernised Russian strongman since Peter the Great and cooing about a Russo-American alliance that would be one of the cornerstones of the post-Cold War world.
It's not like that today.
From China to Central Asia to Ukraine, from its covert efforts to maintain Saddam in power to its more or less unashamed patronage of Iran's nuclear ambitions, Moscow has been at odds with Washington over every key geopolitical issue, and a few non-key ones, too, culminating in Putin's tirade to Bush that the US was flooding Russia with substandard chicken drumsticks and keeping the best ones for itself. It was a poultry complaint but indicative of a retreat into old-school Kremlin paranoia.
Russia's export of ideology was the decisive factor in the history of the 20th century. It seems to me entirely possible that the implosion of Russia could be the decisive factor in the 21st century.
As Iran's nuclear program suggests, in many of the geopolitical challenges to the US, there's usually a Russian component in the background.
In fairness to Putin, he's in a wretched position. Russia is literally dying. From a population peak in 1992 of 148 million, it will be down to below 130 million by 2015 and thereafter dropping to perhaps 50 or 60 million by the end of the century.
The longer Russia goes without arresting the death spiral, the harder it is to pull out of it, and when it comes to the future, most Russian women are voting with their foetus: 70 per cent of pregnancies are aborted. A smaller population needn't necessarily be a problem but Russia is facing simultaneously a huge drain of wealth out of the system.
Add to that the unprecedented strains on a ramshackle public health system. Russia is the sick man of Europe, and would still look pretty sick if you moved him to Africa. It has the fastest-growing rate of HIV infection in the world. By 2010, AIDS will be killing between 250,000 and 750,000 Russians every year. It will become a nation of babushkas, unable to muster enough young soldiers to secure its borders, enough young businessmen to secure its economy or enough young families to secure its future. True, there are parts of Russia that are exceptions to these malign trends. Can you guess which regions they are? They start with a "Mu" and end with a "slim".
So the world's largest country is dying and the only question is how violent its death throes are. Yesterday's Russia was characterised by Winston Churchill as a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma. Today's has come unwrapped: it's a crisis in a disaster inside a catastrophe. Most of the big international problems operate within certain geographic constraints: Africa has AIDS, the Middle East has Islamists, North Korea has nukes. But Russia's got the lot: an African-level AIDS crisis and an Islamist separatist movement sitting on top of the biggest pile of nukes on the planet.
Of course, the nuclear materials are all in "secure" facilities: more secure, one hopes, than the supposedly secure public buildings in Nalchik that the Islamists took over with such ease two weeks ago. They also killed a big bunch of people.
Poor old Russia is awash with resources but fatally short of Russians and, in the end, warm bodies are the one indispensable resource.
What would you do if you were Putin? What have you got to keep your rotting corpse of a country as some kind of player?
You've got nuclear knowhow, which a lot of ayatollahs and dictators are interested in.
That's the danger for America: that most of what Russia has to trade is likely to be damaging to US interests. In its death throes, it could bequeath the world several new Muslim nations, a nuclear Middle East and a stronger China.
Russia's calculation is that sooner or later we'll be back in a bipolar world and that, in almost any scenario, there's more advantage in being part of the non-American pole.
In 1989, with the Warsaw Pact crumbling before his eyes, poor old Mikhail Gorbachev received a helpful bit of advice from the cocky young upstart on the block, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini: "The Islamic Republic of Iran, as the greatest and most powerful base of the Islamic world, can easily help fill up the ideological vacuum of your system."
In an odd way, that's what happened everywhere except in the Kremlin. As communism retreated, radical Islam seeped into Afghanistan and Indonesia and the Balkans. Crazy guys holed up in Philippine jungles and the tri-border region of Argentina, Brazil and Paraguay, who would have been Marxist fantasists a generation or two back, are now Islamists: it's the ideology du jour. And, despite Gorbachev turning down the offer, it will be Russia's fate to have large chunks of its turf annexed by the Islamic world.
We are witnessing a remarkable event: the death of a great nation not through war or devastation but through its inability to rouse itself from its own suicidal tendencies. The ideological vacuum was mostly filled with a nihilist fatalism. Churchill got it wrong: Russia is a vacuum wrapped in a nullity inside an abyss.
Deny God and that's what happens.
Ping. Mark Steyn article.
Is this the same Russia that has a gdp growth of 10% and endless oil wealth? And why are they loosing population?
Wonder why China is not seen as a threat to Russia??
".... most Russian women are voting with their foetus: 70 per cent of pregnancies are aborted."
"Russia is the sick man of Europe, and would still look pretty sick if you moved him to Africa. It has the fastest-growing rate of HIV infection in the world. By 2010, AIDS will be killing between 250,000 and 750,000 Russians every year."
"Russia's got the lot: an African-level AIDS crisis and an Islamist separatist movement sitting on top of the biggest pile of nukes on the planet."
"Russia's calculation is that sooner or later we'll be back in a bipolar world and that, in almost any scenario, there's more advantage in being part of the non-American pole."
Steyn appears to have a good grasp of the situation.
I am not willing to count the Russians out quite yet.
Hitler made the same mistake in the late 30's....
It's going to take a couple generations for the Russians to grow out of the filth that was Communism....
I have long recognized that Russia's negative growth rate is a certain future crisis that could doom the country.
The government needs to do much more to encourage more births.
It's turning into one giant Canada.
The attempt at communist-self-genocide was an 80-year, 80 L-O-N-G years year tale of abyssmal tragedy and misery to the millions and millions of Russians (and an enormous expense [trillion$] to us).
The Russians are back BECAUSE Communism failed (with the relentless "help" of the U.S./Reagan, the Catholic Church/Poland/Solidarity, Soviet bloc countries, East Germany, ETC.). Their culture (history, religion, tradition, that is, their soul) did survive because it was a very strong one and the Russian people were determined that it do so.
It will take the Russians at least three generations to recover. But, that is only my humble little guessimate. Who knows.
Putin is for Russia. No one gave a damn about Russia other than to defeat the Evil Empire. Putin will serve Russia and he will continue to go a good job. (My opinion)
He will continued to be villified by us and by all other countries to whom he doesn't kneel or bend over for. He will never do enough. What he does will never be good enough. No matter what he says or does, he WILL be considered wrong.
That he refrains from obvious comments like, "The hell with you," "Where were you when....," "Yeah, like this is going to be good for us......" "What's in it for us? Nothing? Oh, surprise, surprise," "Who are you to tell us how we MUST deal with Iran or any other country," is amazing.
I don't want to go to Russia; I'm not enamored with the Russians we have here; I'm not in love with their culture, religion or language; I don't like poetry or their icons and their operas are long, boring and tedious (zzzz too many verbose, weeping sopranos--no comments here on verbosity, please). However, their contributions of music, ballet, literature (thick books, depressing books, plays, characters), science, etc., are fantastic. I admire and respect their culture, that is, their soul.
I can't say the same for other countires, non-communist, communist and/or post communist countries. No names, please. :o)
An unloaded gun is as much of a threat to someone as a loaded one, if they don't know it's unloaded.
An Islamofascist with a nuke -- any nuke -- suddenly becomes a key player to be negotiated with.
1. Me neither.
2. So did Napoleon 100 years earlier.
3. I'd say AT LEAST three generations.
So does his black-belt training in martial arts.
As does his upbringing in the Russian Orthodoxy. His mother was a devout Christain. Putin attends Mass regularly as well.
He is an interesting hybrid.
Why does this come as a surprise? Heck, the West already has shown itself willing to slice off parts of the former Yugoslavia and hand them to the Muhammedans in a modern-day Munich Agreement.
I've no doubt the Muhammedans hope they'll be as stupid when it comes to former Soviet areas.
They are not competitors. Russia produces oil and China manufactures. China already has a lot of unpopulated land and does not need the land Russia has. China has a population density lower than Europe if you include the land that is unpopulated. Russia has better nukes than China. There is just no reason for war.
Italy has the lowest birth rate on the planet.
Go figure.
It has to do with money, I'm told.
The problem is, a declining population usually means a declining economy which means a further decline in population, etc.
Everyone likes to bash immigration to the US. But immigration means GDP growth.
Nearing two billion people, with limited oil, you can see no reason China might want to expand????
I suspect China will end up with a lot of Siberia.
Russia also has a lot of oil as well. If we were smart, we'd help Russia by buying their oil and make 'ol Vlad understand that we're not too happy about them arming our enemies. Make no mistake, I think Vlad wants to resurrect their past greatness by repackaging communism but with himself firmly in charge. You could say that by buying their oil we're extending their lifespan and would allow them to do exactly that. But, if in their death throes they think they have nothing to lose, they will trade their nuclear knowledge, material and warheads for a chance to just postpone the inevitable for a day.
We need to give Vlad the opportunity to save Russia with our help but he has to make a commitment to NOT arm or help our enemies. It might also help if he realizes that our enemies (radical Islam) are his enemies.
Excellent post. Thanks!
There is one large slice of Siberia that China has never recognized as being Russian.<p.
Difficult to see how the Russia/China thing will play out.
This is an old story I read in the Atlantic Monthly years ago, I think by Robert Kaplan if I remember right.
Predicting the future that far out is plain silly. All it takes is one inspirational leader to turn a country on a dime.
The left over commies are a drag on Russia. I don't expect any of them acquired a work ethic since Glastnos and Perestroika. Once the commies die out, and that capitalism shows that it rewards those that work, I think the downward spiral in Russia sill stop. Given its natural resources and intellectual capital, it may even rise up as the strongman of Eurasia.
Steyn is also silly to think Islam is going to carve up Russia. The whole of Islam still can't rid itself of 6,000,000 or so Jews.
Frankly, I have no problem with Putin.
He is for Russia. He is for not letting the oligarchs steal the wealth of his country. He is for restoring the dignity of a nation that is reduced to being the prime supplier of cheap white female flesh. Yelstin era democracy failed and failed miserably. Russia needs a period of authoritarianism to get itself together.
There is a natural bent to authoritarianism in the Russian historical narrative. I remember Stalin's 1930 speech in which he described Russian history as a long, long list of beatings she suffered for her backwardness. In the Russian national memory is the tale of the terrible defeat by the Mongols at the battle of the Khalka, a defeat that doomed Kievan Russia, a defeat suffered because the Russian side did not have a single strong leader capable of imposing unity of command upon the proud, quarrelsome boyars. Kievan Rus did not have a Czar.
Socialism has to be outlawed. It leads to this suicidal tendency wherever it raises its ugly head. We see it right here in America. Democrats (our socialists) won't fight islamicists either.
Our Russian roommate says the the birthrate of Russia is beginning to grow by tiny fractions. At the hospital where she worked the number rises by 10 or 15 births on average above the previous years average.
Another thing that's going on seemingly unnoticed is a migration out of the cities. Along with the migration to the country there has been a resurgence of birthing by midwife and those children often go uncounted for a few years.
While I agree with Steyn that Russia is the modern day "Sick Man of Europe", I wouldn't write them off so quickly. Napoleon and Hitler found that out the hard way, and I think the Islamofascists in Iran will find out soon enough, that you can never conquer that much territory and hold it against a determined foe, and Russians are very determined when you mess with their turf.
Anybody who thinks they'll just up and give up their home turf(not counting the SSR's ending in "stan") need only look at how long they've been fighting the Chechnyans. It's not a great example of how to run a counter-insurgency campaign, but it demonstrates that they can, and will fight if aroused. And nobody will convince me that some of those SS-20's are whatever don't still work....
I actually met one of these Russian mail-order brides "in waiting" working at a bar in New Orleans a few years ago. Stunningly beautiful. My frat brother tried desperately to get her phone number, but she ignored him because I had a few extra bucks of cash on hand and know a few Russian words. She was hitting on me till we left the place. I realize it's hard for those girls, but what she did was bordering on being what some harlot does in a bordello...
I tend to agree. I love Steyn and he is right that many things in Russia are bad and getting worse. But things are simultaneously getting better in other areas. Obviously many Russkies are still in shock over the death of communism and there appears to be a tremendous loss of confidence in their country. But that trend might change as the country gets richer and continues to interact with the western countries. I agree, don't count out Russia yet.
V.Putin was a full Colonel of the KGB he was stationed in East Germany running spies against the west. This man is no fool & those who think that he is looking out for anything but what he percieves to be in his own interests are fools of the earth shaking variety .
If women in the US weren't abortion their babies, we'd have a good stable population without mass immigration. Without immigration we'd be losing population because of abortion. This is not good.
Correction - if women in the US weren't ABORTING their babies.
Must proofread.
There is no easily recoverable oil in Siberia.
Lots of land...Russia admits they already have a large illegal group of Chinese in Siberia.
"Everyone likes to bash immigration to the US. But immigration means GDP growth."
Illegal or not, the immigrants here work very hard. That is why they came to the U.S. Directly or indirectly they bolster the nation's economy.
I can't say the same for those who come to Europe, where they can live off the Socialist system. That France is virtually supporting these terrorists infuriates me (and a number of French people, as well).
This is just my opinion -- and I'm not an expert in either economics or international affairs. But when I see Europe, I see a very depressive environment.
I disagree with Mark Steyn totally. He could have said the same thing about any European country. Anyway, I see 50% of women today are pleasure seeking, men hating, sel-fish bisexual lesbians with another 25% today just wait for the artificial womb. Leaving 25% traditional couples having 1 to 4 kids at the most.
(3rd world and 1st world women over 40 not included.)
Future Home Depot and Wal*Mart stores will sell Super State run IFRD ready, DNA programmed, cradle to grave designer fetus factories babies to all sexual "need-a-baby" couples.
Can't wait for the movie..."The End of Pregnancy"
About a stronger China, well Bill Clinton gave them the BOMB and Rocket technology for campaign contributions and U.S. Corporation favors.
The crazy Muslims are encircled with US Military Bases and could be destroyed at any time.
I guess were out of Saudi today but Syria and Iran are soooooooo close to being attacked from within and without.
I like the map if true it's good info. Google image is great but the site I didn't look at.
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Ask your doctor about these tests at your next appointment.
OK, you get all the requisite cancer screenings, have an annual head-to-toe physical to check your blood pressure and cholesterol, and even get routine colonscopies. So you're in the clear, health-wise�right? Not exactly. While check-ups and screening tests are a great way to monitor your health and allow you to take preemptive action should something not be quite right, you may be overlooking some blood tests that could detect health red flags. "Blood tests give insights into the biochemical uniqueness of a person," says holistic practitioner Dr. Michael Wald, director of nutritional services at Integrated Medicine of Mount Kisco, New York. In fact, certain tests can find problems that standard blood tests miss, "sometimes years before they happen," he adds. While some health insurers may not pay for the tests (check with yours before setting up your appointment to avoid any financial surprises), the peace of mind you'll get may be worth the cost. Here, five blood tests recommended by Wald. C-reactive protein (CRP). This test measures levels of CRP, a blood protein that rises if there's inflammation in your body. It can also gauge your risk for coronary artery disease, narrowing of the arteries that could cause a heart attack. Caveat: A CRP test can�t pinpoint the source of the inflammation. "Your body doesn't know if inflammation is caused by narrow arteries, arthritis, cancer, a bacterial infection or a stubbed toe," explains Wald. RELATED: Five Foods that Fight Pain Regardless of the cause, though, inflammation isn't good. "CRP circulates in the body as part of a destructive process," says Wald. That means it could up your risk not only for heart disease, but also Alzheimer's and other conditions if you're genetically predisposed to them. Elevated CRP is "one of the most predictable markers in the blood for all-cause morbidity and mortality," says Wald. Because of this, he checks his patients' levels annually. 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