News 11/10

Here is some truly inspiring news. Castle Argghhh shared this info on the coming award of the Medal of Honor to Corporal Jason Dunham. It’s the second MOH awarded during the war in Iraq. The first was awarded to SFC Paul Smith. Please remember the sacrifices of these warriors, and their familes, by giving generously to Valour-IT. And, once again, our household joins the Castle Denizens’ dance In Memorium.

In the commentary section…

There was an outstanding discussion of racism and immigration. I found it during a random search of the internet. I seriously doubt I could have expressed things this well. It’s long, but well worth the time to read it.
(…thanks, Snoop...)

And, in the news…

Will Hamas really give up control of government? I think it’s a political ploy to get the aid released. I don’t see the Palestinians backing off of their demand for an end to Israel. But…making way for the benefit of the doubt…we’ll have to see for sure.

Al Qaeda is gloating over Rumsfeld’s departure. Meanwhile, the UK jailed a man for 40 years due to his involvement in plots using car bombs and a dirty bomb. I wonder what Al-Qaeda will make of that. Meanwhile, there was a report of planned holiday attacks. Is it just me, or does anyone thihnk these reports via captured terrorists may be a grand dis-information campaign? I think they are trying to wear us out chainsg shadows. But chase those shadows we must. After all, they only have to be right once.

In Iraq, Sunnis and Shiites are blaming each other for a mortar war in Baghdad. As if that is a big surprise.

Iran is not giving in on nuclear ambitions, while giving in on nuclear ambitions…
(...Imagine the Russians and Chinese balking at sanctions. The Russians alone are in for $1 billion. Can’t imagine how that could influence their decision...)


Public health officials want US out of Iraq. Their stance seems to be a lack of healthcare improvement. Pity they didn’t look at these numbers:

Health:
PreWar: No new hospitals built in 20 years while population tripled. Over half of public health centers were closed for poor maintenance.

Currently: Seven IRRF funded Primary Healthcare Centers completed – 6 are open. 66 Primary Healthcare Centers are under construction. 21 Hospitals renovated, serving approximately 5500 patients/day.

Or…maybe they are assuming the sectarian violence wouldn’t be going on if the US wasn’t there. They could also be buying into the flawed Lancet Study. Of course, the same group is wanting some other things. The big three:

The world's largest organization of public health professionals concluded its annual meeting in Boston Wednesday by calling for U.S. forces to leave Iraq and for an end to abstinence-only sex education.

The American Public Health Association (APHA) also expressed its support for a ban on serving trans fats in restaurants and a treaty instituting global control of alcohol consumption.

Meanwhile, back at home, the NY Times favors Gates? So do many Democrats, despite all Gates’ problems back in ‘91.

And, maybe it will only be two years say some conservatives…I think that will depend on how honest with themselves the Right Wing and Conservatives become.

Finally, making a bow of respect to the US Marines, I share this link for a truly vile concoction. What a way to start you’re enlistment! Happy 231st Birthday to the Corps!