Don't Be Fooled: Advanced and Rational Societies Can Commit Environmental Suicide

http://www.truthout.org/issues_05/060805EC.shtml


Informant: Scott Munson

http://www.omahaimc.org/newswire/display/631/index.php


Informant: billder

Yesterday I introduced S. 1224, the "National Oceans Preservation Act of 2005," critical legislation to improve the health and governance of our oceans.

The beauty and wonder of our oceans should be a cause for celebration -- something that our children and grandchildren should have a chance to enjoy and cherish.

Instead, our oceans are facing grave threats from over-fishing, invasive species, and pollution. In fact, two independent commissions have found oceans to be in a state of crisis. My legislation, co-sponsored by Senator Frank Lautenberg of New Jersey, meets these challenges head-on by adopting a comprehensive national approach to oceans management that will protect marine wildlife and habitat, strengthen fisheries, and reduce pollution.

But I need your help to protect our oceans. Please contact your Senators, urging them to co-sponsor S.1224, the "National Oceans Preservation Act of 2005!"
http://ga4.org/campaign/saveouroceans/b85g57rz55x6ew?

All Americans should be able to unite to protect our oceans and the communities and ecosystems they support. By reaching out to your friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues, you can help us build the grassroots support we desperately need to get the job done -- for our children, grandchildren, and generations to come.

Please urge your Senators to co-sponsor this critical legislation now -- and then invite all of your friends, family neighbors and colleagues to join in our cause!
http://ga4.org/campaign/saveouroceans/b85g57rz55x6ew?


In Friendship,

Barbara Boxer

Study
http://online.wsj.com/article_email/article_print/0,,BT_CO_20050608_002579-IhjgYNllaJ4mpumbKiGcK2Am4,00.html


How can one get this Royal society report?

Iris.

Dear Olle: Thanks for this reponse and explanation. I realized the Trustees for Children With Leukaemia may possibly have also not known what you meant when you said "you may not be the best choice......[replication of findings re grandsons and guinea pigs]....." I think I sent that email to the Charity and hope that all communications are reaching Mr.and Mrs.O'Gorman either directly or through assistance by their daughter, Milham.

As you know, Dr. Fatih Uckun, Parker Hughes Cancer Center in St. Paul, Minnesota (located near us), knows that EMR exposure causes immune changes (markers for irradiation), the gene being the same for immune dysfunction as that for Leukaemia.

Uckun's major discoveries were made while he was at the University of Minnesota where he conducted research for the multi-million dollar EMF RAPID Study. As you know, the final EMF Interagency Committee Report has never been released to Congress. Uckun did, however, make an announcement re a major breakthrough in the treatment of childhood Leukaemia. The father of a boy named Parker Hughes who died from Leukaemia donated a large sum of money. The National Institute of Health and the Department of Defense were listed as also funding the new cancer center which at that time was called "The Hughes Institute."

I have sent several emails to Parker-Hughes in an attempt to contact Dr. Uckun. I have made appeals for Parker-Hughes for help regarding publications recommending caution in regard to electric appliances/electric meters. No response whatsoever ..........

Dr. Louis Slesin ("Microwave News") told me on the phone a few years ago that he tried to interview Dr. Fatih Uckun on more than one occasion. Again, "no response......"

Tax-payers funded the EMF research along with industry. My requests do not seem to be unreasonable nor were Dr. Louis Slesin's requests for interviews.

At this time, I am grateful that you are providing hope that more children will soon be saved from needless suffering and death (as well as adults) by the fact that you are willing to do the confirmatory research of what are "almost indisputable facts" re harm being done by ongoing use of electrical devices by bedsides as well as studies to confirm beneficial effects of installing filters that remove harmful high frequencies from electrical wiring as well as the fact that you are stepping forward to "speak out" on their behalf regarding these specific issues in addition to concerns regarding RF due to cell antennas and other communications' issues!!!!

Take care and best of luck on your upcoming trip to the WHO in Switzerland!!!! Joanne

Joanne C. Mueller
Guinea Pigs R Us
731 - 123rd Avenue N.W.
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55448-2127 USA
Phone: 763-755-6114
Email: jcmpelican@aol.com



Fwd: Email from Dr. Olle Johansson 6-10-04 to Joanne Mueller:

Dear Joanne,

No, not at all. I am a neuroscientist by trade, but as you point out, I am quite capable in e.g. the immune functions of the human skin (see for instance: Rossi R, Johansson O, "Cutaneous innervation and the role of neuronal peptides in cutaneous inflammation: a minireview", Eur J Dermatol 1998; 8: 299-306).

What I meant, is that maybe you can find equally good (or even better) scientists much closer to you, thus economizing the study to an optimal level. However, I do understand that there are not so many colleagues willing to get their hands dirty on the issue of cancer, power-frequent electromagnetic fields, children, etc., so maybe - at the end - I am one of the few willing to help.

Hypersegmented neutrophils (actually also normal ones) are very interesting to investigate re boys and guinea pigs, and they would have been one of my first choices.

Have a nice day!!

Best regards
Yours
Olle

(Olle Johansson, assoc. prof.
The Experimental Dermatology Unit
Department of Neuroscience
Karolinska Institute
171 77 Stockholm
Sweden)



Email from Joanne C. Mueller to Dr. Olle Johansson (6-9-05):

Olle: Don asks, "how much more evidence do we need?" When you wrote that you might not be the best choice (by definition) to replicate findings re boys and guinea pigs, do you mean that you are limited to type of study by the fact that you are involved specifically with dermatologic issues?

I guess I assumed the fact that you are in the Neuroscience Department plus because immune function involves effects on the CNS, that you/we would be in a position to contribute greatly with a study that would tie-together all of the main factors re boys and guinea pigs with existing literature.

I believe you are "the perfect choice" for confirmatory studies even if something creative re skin/histamine needs to be done to "fit" with your area of specialty. I think I just read something about measuring IGG's in skin. As you know "hypersegmented neutrophils" were found in more than one guinea pig's blood after electric meter/"powerwall exposure." You most likely know that hypersegmented neutrophils will occur in skin if testing takes place soon enough. As you know "hypersegs" are "markers for irradiation."

I hope you are doing well and feeling o.k.!!!!

Take care - Joanne
Joanne C. Mueller
Guinea Pigs R Us
731 - 123rd Avenue N.W.
Minneapolis, Minnesota 55448-2127 USA
Phone: 763-755-6114
Email: jcmpelican@aol.com



http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Leukaemia

Click here to take action today:
http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/?Page=Campaign&CampaignID=17

What You Can Do

First, Opt out.
http://www.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?key=19211079&url_num=1&url=http://hq.demaction.org/dia/organizations/2020vision/images/OptOutForm.pdf

Click here to download a form to remove your name, or your child's name, from the recruitment rolls.
http://www.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?key=19211079&url_num=2&url=http://hq.demaction.org/dia/organizations/2020vision/images/OptOutForm.pdf

Second, tell others.
http://www.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?key=19211079&url_num=3&url=http://www.2020vision.org/tellafriend.jsp?tell_a_friend_KEY=279

Opting out requires you to take action. Make sure your friends and neighbors know their rights. Click here to tell a friend.
http://www.democracyinaction.org/dia/track.jsp?key=19211079&url_num=4&url=http://www.2020vision.org/tellafriend.jsp?tell_a_friend_KEY=279

Is your child’s school sending his or her personal information to the US military for recruitment purposes? If you don’t know, then the answer is probably "yes."

A little noticed provision of the No Child Left Behind Act includes a requirement that any school system receiving federal funds under the act provide the US military with the name, address and phone number of all high school students unless the student or parent expressly opt out.

This invasive provision gives information to the military that is properly thought by most to be confidential. We offer our addresses and phone numbers to our children's schools so that we can be contacted with information important to their schooling. We expect to be contacted if our children are sick, or if there is a problem, or even to discuss a child's progress with a teacher. We do not provide that information to encourage military recruitment.

This is not an issue of opposition to the military. Any student has a right to expect that his or her school will treat private information with care. Requiring a school to release that information is wrong. Further requiring that one must "opt out" to avoid sharing this information, rather than requiring that people "opt in" or sign up to receive information from the military, turns our normal standard of privacy on its head.

As an advocacy group, we are very aware of issues of privacy. Before we send information to you, we ensure that you have requested information from us. Moreover, every e-mail we send includes directions on how to remove yourself from our lists if you no longer wish to receive information from us. Isn't it time that our military was at least as protective of your privacy?

Ron Zucker

Weil die US-Regierung mit falschen Begründungen in den Irak-Krieg gezogen ist, fordert der ehemalige Präsidentschaftskandidat Ralph Nader die Amtsenthebung.

http://www.telepolis.de/tp/r4/artikel/20/20282/1.html

Umweltschutz durch Verbraucher: Papierindustrie soll Menschenrechte achten und Urwälder schützen (10.06.05)

Ein Bündnis namhafter Umwelt- und Verbraucherorganisationen hat sich am Freitag, 10.06.05, mit einem gemeinsamen Aufruf an die Mitglieder des Verbandes Deutscher Papierfabriken sowie des Bundesverbandes des Deutschen Papiergroßhandels gewandt. In dem Aufruf fordern sie Papierhandel und -industrie auf, ausschließlich Zellstoff zu verwenden, der aus einer ökologisch nachhaltigen und sozial gerechten Waldwirtschaft stammt. Außerdem sollen Papierindustrie und -handel mehr Altpapier einsetzen. Die Präsentation des Aufrufs begleiten ROBIN WOOD-Aktivisten am Hamburger Fischmarkt mit einer Aktion gegen Papierverschwendung und Papier aus Raubbau.

Die ganze Nachricht im Internet:
http://www.ngo-online.de/ganze_nachricht.php?Nr=11225

10.06.05

Greenpeace hat sich vor dem Verwaltungsgericht Köln gegen den US-SaatgutkonzernMonsanto mit dem Anspruch auf Akteneinsicht zum genmanipulierten Mais MON 863 durchgesetzt. Laut am Freitag veröffentlichtem Gerichtsbeschluss muss eine mehr als 1000 Seiten umfassende Studie über Gesundheitsschäden bei Ratten nach der Verfütterung dieses Gen-Mais jetzt veröffentlicht werden. Das Bundesamt für Verbraucherschutz und Lebensmittelsicherheit hatte im April nach Aufforderung durch Greenpeace die Freigabe der brisanten Studie beschlossen. Dagegen hatte Monsanto jedoch Einspruch vor dem Verwaltungsgericht eingelegt, der jetzt im Eilverfahren zurückgewiesen wurde.

Die ganze Nachricht im Internet:
http://www.ngo-online.de/ganze_nachricht.php?Nr=11223

Bürgerinitiative "Kein Atommüll in Ahaus": Fotos belegen mutmaßliche Beschädigung von angeliefertem Castor-Behälter (10.06.05)

Der Bürgerinitiative "Kein Atommüll in Ahaus" e.V. sind Fotos zugespielt worden, welche die Deckel der Castor-MTR-2-Behälter aus Dresden-Rossendorf unmittelbar nach ihrer Ankunft in Ahaus zeigen. Deutlich erkennbar seien erhebliche Rostschäden im Bereich der Verschraubungen. Damit erhärte sich der Verdacht der Anti-Atomkraft-Initiative, dass die Behälter unzulänglich und für eine 40-jährige sichere Lagerung nicht geeignet sind. Dass das Bundesamt für Strahlenschutz (BfS) sich weigert, sämtliche Messprotokolle zu den Strahlungswerten der 18 Castor-Behälter zu veröffentlichen, sei ein weiteres Zeugnis für die Geheimniskrämerei der Bundesbehörde.

Die ganze Nachricht im Internet:
http://www.ngo-online.de/ganze_nachricht.php?Nr=11227

http://www.yesweekly.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=235&TM=52540.06


Informant: Uncle Don B Fanning

Famous for serenading the seas with their haunting melodies, the humpback whale has been protected since 1966, when it was on the brink of extinction from commercial whaling. But now a new threat has emerged, as media reports indicate that Japan is now seeking to resume commercial whaling of humpbacks, defying international agreements under the notorious "scientific research" loophole. Take action: http://www.care2.com/go/z/24786

Using a loophole that allows whales to be killed for scientific study, more than 25,000 whales have been killed since a worldwide ban on commercial whaling was passed by the International Whaling Commission (IWC) in 1986. Yet it's unnecessary to kill whales in order to study them, since non-lethal alternatives already exist.

At the International Whaling Commission meeting beginning July 20th, the world will vote on Japan's outrageous proposal to hunt humpback whales. Several countries remain undecided and are very sensitive to external opinion. With a little pressure, they can be swayed to protect the whales and stop Japan from slaughtering them.

That's why it's critical we tell the Swiss, Danish, Chinese and South Korean Ambassadors in our countries to oppose Japan's plan to kill endangered humpback whales - before it's too late.

Sign the petition: http://www.care2.com/go/z/24786
Thank you for taking action today!

- Dawn S
Care2 and ThePetitionSite team

by Jurgen Brauer and Nicholas Anglewicz, TomPaine.com

Taking all spending into account, the federal government spends 68 cents of every dollar on defense.

http://www.tompaine.com/articles/20050610/twothirds_on_defense.php

by Lee Drutman,TomPaine.com

Bush's nomination of Christopher Cox to be chairman of the SEC could not have happened at a worse time--for anyone who wants to retire.

http://www.tompaine.com/articles/20050610/cox_in_the_henhouse.php

Radiation Research Newsletter June 2005

Welcome & Introduction

With the UK General Election behind us the Trust has been looking at aspects of Mast Radiation from the recent research papers from Austria, Germany and Sweden and welcomes comments from our increasing subscribers/petition support base. The fact that the Trust is recognised as a real facilitator of research and information on the thorny topic of electromagnetic radiation and hypersensitivity, is shown in the Brussels meetings with John Ryan the EU’s Head of Health Information Unit and DG Research Officials.

Helping focus our attention on the issue are the following statements on our website from an ex microwave engineer in the North of England and a Chartered Engineer in Gloucestershire;

* “This is an issue of major public concern and a potential time bomb. I speak as an ex-microwave engineer who understands the complexities of energy.”

* “I am particularly concerned about the frequency being used for the third generation of mobile phones. It is so close to the cooking frequency of microwaves ovens which operate at 2.45GHz. The third generation mobile phone system operates at 2.2GHz-2.4GHz – too close for comfort as far as I am concerned. I have worked in the electronics/defence industry for over 20 years and have a great unease about the whole third generation of mobile communications infrastructure set up.

I am not a scare monger, I am a qualified engineer having an honours degree in Electrical Electronic Engineering, I am also a Chartered Engineer and I do understand the implications of electromagnetic radiation. Over exposure by humans to this sort of radiation causes cancer and at a high levels of power, thermal effects – burns. So who knows what state our bodies will be in after 10-20 years exposure to this electromagnetic radiation?”

The comment in 12 th May’s Western Morning News from our main sponsors Ecoflow Plc’s Chief Executive Paul Markland is also significant; “I personally believe there’s a problem with mobile phones. I was a merchant seaman but I always tried to avoid being near radar scanners so to me it seems illogical holding a mobile phone to your head.” Hence our following response to see moves forward from the Stewart Report.

We are delighted at the re-election of our three Westminster Trustees MP’s, Andrew Gibson, Mark Oaten and Dr Ian Gibson.

New Trustee

We also welcome Brian Stein, Chief Executive of Food Group Samworth Brothers as a new Trustee. He has strong Cornish connections – Ginsters is a Samworth brand. Through over-use of a mobile phone over some 15 years Brian has seriously become affected by Electro hypersensitivity. His office is free of all screens, faxes, etc. and his mobile phone days ended some 4 years ago. The Trust is now looking to concentrate on its advancing aims with help from this Senior Captain of Industry.

Stewart Report II - Trust follow up with ‘Seven Pillar of Wisdom’

Having developed our ‘Seven Pillars’ as a strategy to take the Stewart Report forward, these were presented by myself and Eileen O’Connor to the Head of Planning Policy ODPM on 11 th May and later sent to the New Minister for Planning, Yvette Cooper, from whom a response is currently awaited. Indications are that the Trust’s proposals have been regarded as very constructive. Trustee Dr Ian Gibson with Solicitor Alan Meyer are due to meet Yvette Cooper on 15 th June.

The need for planning applications for all new masts to have full disclosure of Emission Strengths/Directions and a Public Register of all mast sites with proper control by an Independent Regulator is surely paramount – ‘Sitefinder’ is clearly inadequate as is OFCOM’s audit process. The Public across the UK and Ireland have little confidence in the present industry dominated regime. Sir William Stewart rightly continues to advocate the ‘Precautionary Principle’ but to implement it, the NRPB is in an untenable position. No sanctions are available for covert mast changes without planning permission, and the industry voluntary code is often ignored.

European Commission - 27 th May 2005 - with 16 th June Follow-up

Trustees Eileen O’Connor, Michael Bell and Dr Caroline Lucas MEP attended meetings on 27 th May in Brussels at the Commission with John Ryan, Head of Health Information DG Sance, and later that day with DG Research Officials. The Trust also funded Brussels attendances by leading scientists Dr Gerd Oberfeld of Salzburg, Austria and Professor Johannsen of Sweden – where electro sensitivity is recognised as a disability – to back the Trust.

John Ryan has called for a further meeting with Eileen and Gerd on 16 th June to consider possible EU sponsored research on the subject. This follows Dr Oberfeld’s report published 27 th April that radiation from a base station 80 metres away causes significant changes of the electrical currents in the brains of electro sensitive people. We hope the Commission will back funding for research on the issue through the Trust. It is a key one for public health which is Mr Ryan’s area of responsibility at the Commission.

Warnings on Mobile Phone Packaging

Sadly the topic of packaging warnings for children’s use on mobile phones is not in Mr Ryan’s remit.

See article “ Security Comes at a Price ” - Newcastle Evening
http://icnewcastle.icnetwork.co.uk/eveningchronicle/features/tm_objectid=15427881&method=full&siteid=50081&headline=security-that-comes-at-a-price-name_page.html

Chronicle 21 st April for our concerns as voiced by Sir William Stewart and others.

Latest Research - Summary

We have given details on ‘ Latest Research ’ of current research findings from Austria, Germany and Sweden. We believe Gerd Oberfeld of Salzburg, findings require funding for follow up research backed by the EU. http://www.radiationresearch.org/research.htm

Overhead Power Lines

The Leukaemia risk to children born close to overhead power lines published in the British Medical Journal this month may be a statistical quirk according some sceptics. We certainly hope so but Professor Denis Henshaw and others are continuing to voice concerns on the risks of living adjacent to such lines.

See article - " Leukaemia risk 70pc higher for children close to power lines " - Daily Telegraph 3/6/05
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/health/main.jhtml?xml=/health/2005/06/08/npow03.xml&sSheet=/health/2005/06/08/ixhmain.html

Spectrum Analyser

As a result of our Liverpool meeting last year and with help from the Trust, electronics specialist Brian Egerton is launching this summer a spectrum analyser and related instruments to measure the strengths and directions from all electromagnetic radiation sources. With the recent British Medical Journal Report on overhead power lines (June 2003), which mirrors the mast issue, this should be a major benefit to the public, particularly if mortgage lenders are beginning to instruct surveyors to discourage people from buying houses within 75 metres of mobile phone masts.

Addenbrooke’s Hospital

It seems incredible that Addenbrooke’s Hospital has the gall to collect around £100,000 per annum from mobile phone companies for masts sited on its premises! Just try using a mobile phone there!

Thanks again Ecoflow Plc

We’re delighted at Paul Markland’s appreciation of the Trust’s work in the Western Morning News of 12 th May. Our sincere thanks are due to Ecoflow Plc and its distributors for continuing to support with their donations the work of the Trust in trying to solve one of the most controversial health issues affecting the public today.We need more sponsorship from like-minded sources.

Diary Dates - 16 th June 2005

The next Midlands Planning Aid meeting on Mobile Phone Masts is on 16 th June at 55 Temple Row, Birmingham at 5.45pm. Call Sandra Newton, WMPAS, to register: 0121 766 8044.

The next Trust meeting will be on 19 th July at Portcullis House, Westminster.

Michael J Bell

Chairman

Hi all.

Here are the results of the 54th German Physician congress in Berlin.

The translation is done by a German, and could be better, but I hope people will understand the meaning

We will try and translate it better, but it takes time.

Dr. med. Cornelia Waldmann Selsam
Karl May Straße 48
96049 Bamberg
phone no.: 0951/12300
telefax no.: 0951/2972506
peter.selsam@t-online.de


One important step in the mobile radio discussion took place:

On 9 May 2005 the Naila study was introduced to the 54th German congress of physician in Berlin.

Five family doctors from Naila had stated in a retrospective pilot study that the portion of cases of cancer with the patients, arisen again, who had been living during the last ten years in a distance up to 400 meters around the mobile radio transmitter operated since 1993, opposite to removed living patients were significantly higher and the patients were gotten sick significantly earlier in age. For the years 1999 to 2004 - thus after five and more years period of operation of the transmitter - the Malignome risk for the subpopulation in the comparison with the group in the Naila's, nearer living to the sending station, had trebled itself external area.

Supplementing Dr. H. Eger reported on the congress of physician of similar oppressive observations in the year 2004 in Austria, Israel and England :

– Müllendorf (Austria) in the locality with 1200 inhabitants came it to a trebling of stepped cases of cancer after 5 years latency to installation of the 1st transmission mast (lecture Dr. W. Jandrisovits on the Bamberger mobile radio symposium January 2005).

– Netanya (Israel) in the study published in the Journal of Cancer Prevention April 2004 was examined the new occurrence of cancer illnesses in the proximity of a mobile radio transmitter in the comparison with an not radiated region. The authors R. and D. Wolf find already after one year running time in relation to the total population and the control's group quadruple increased cancer rates with women, whom repeats itself in the subsequent year.

– West Midlands (England) in the case of a collection, in which Dr. J. Walker was involved, shows up an unusual cancer amassment in the range of the highest radiation intensity around for 8 years a sending basis station. The investigation the cancer cluster in connection with the estimated and measured jet intensity was accomplished already several times by Dr. Walker with the same result.

Dr. P. M. Wiedemann (Jülich) presented a new risk analysis. Scientists would have evaluated studies from the years 2000 to 2004 and would have found no vouchers for health damage. Wiedemann had to grant in the discussion however that in Germany except in Naila no investigations at mobile radio locations were accomplished. Thus the scientific basis is missing to the risk analysis. Although since 10 years gotten sick humans of many locations despairs itself to the Federal Office for radiation protection, to which radiation protection commission and to the Federal Ministry for environment, nature protection and reactor safety turned, the crucial questions were scientifically not examined: How are humans, who live or work in the proximity of mobile radio plants, health? How does the presence of a DECT telephone affect inhabitants and neighbours?

It was omitted by the scientists going to the many gotten sick ones and accomplishing studies. Therefore they do not have to make a scientific authentication an evaluation of the health risk.

The results of medical examinations, which were accomplished for lack of official studies by some physicians, are shaking:

– For years many humans get sick partly heavily by pulsed high frequency electromagnetic fields.

– The treating physicians often did not recognize the cause of the illness, since according to valid doctrine an effect is not considered possible the health.

– If the concerning themselves assumed a connection with the high frequency (for temporal and spatial reasons) became it often ridiculously made, Psychotherapeuten skillfully and their fate merciless left.

The group of researchers of Prof. Dr. R. Tauber, Berlin, which had cooperated in the renowned reflex study, presented the effects of EMF underneath the valid limit values on the hereditary substance and on protein concentrations. Even if from these laboratory findings directly health damage it cannot be judged these results from medical view are so disturbing that immediate action need exists.

A scientist researches.

A physician must prevent and heal.

Prophylaxis and healing is only possible by completion the high frequency exposition.

Bamberg, 15 May 2005
Dr. med. Cornelia Waldmann Selsam
Physician Initiative Bamberger Appeal


I still hope you can read it.

Best regards.

Agnes

http://www.mast-victims.org


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Naila+study
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=cancer+cluster

http://tinyurl.com/9rjkp


Informant: Fini Manso

http://colorado.indymedia.org/newswire/display/11125/index.php


Informant: billder

Francis A. Boyle
Law Building
504 E. Pennsylvania Ave.
Champaign, IL 61820 USA
217-333-7954 (voice)
217-244-1478 (fax)
fboyle@law.uiuc.edu
(personal comments only)


Campaign To Impeach Bush!

Friday, June 10, 2005 8:43 AM

The National Campaign to Impeach President George W. Bush

by

Professor Francis A. Boyle

Author, Destroying World Order (Clarity Press: 2004)

Since the U.S. Supreme Court's installation of George W. Bush as President in January of 2001, the peoples of the world have witnessed a government in the United States of America that demonstrates little if any respect for fundamental considerations of international law, international organizations, and human rights, let alone appreciation of the requirements for maintaining international peace and security. What the world has watched instead is a comprehensive and malicious assault upon the integrity of the international legal order by a group of men and women who are thoroughly Machiavellian in their perception of international relations and in their conduct of both foreign policy and domestic affairs. This is not simply a question of giving or withholding the benefit of the doubt when it comes to complicated matters of foreign affairs and defense policies to a U.S. government charged with the security of both its own citizens and those of its allies in Europe, the Western Hemisphere , and the Pacific. Rather, the Bush Jr. administration's foreign policies represent a gross deviation from those basic rules of international deportment and civilized behavior that the United States government had traditionally played the pioneer role in promoting for the entire world community. Even more seriously, in many instances specific components of the Bush Jr. administration's foreign policies constitute ongoing criminal activity under well-recognized principles of both international law and U.S. domestic law, and in particular the Nuremberg Charter, the Nuremberg Judgment, and the Nuremberg Principles.

Depending upon the substantive issues involved, those international crimes typically include but are not limited to the Nuremberg offenses of crimes against peace, crimes against humanity and war crimes, as well as grave breaches of the Four Geneva Conventions of 1949 and the 1907 Hague Regulations on land warfare, torture, disappearances, and assassinations. In addition, various members of the Bush Jr. administration committed numerous inchoate crimes incidental to these substantive offenses that under the Nuremberg Charter, Judgment, and Principles were international crimes in their own right: viz., planning, preparation, solicitation, incitement, conspiracy, complicity, attempt, aiding and abetting, etc. Of course the great irony of today's situation is that six decades ago at Nuremberg, representatives of the U.S. government participated in the prosecution, punishment and execution of Nazi government officials for committing some of the same types of heinous international crimes that members of the Bush Jr. administration currently inflict upon people all around the world. To be sure, I personally oppose the imposition of capital punishment upon any person for any reason no matter how monstrous their crimes: Bush Jr., Tony Blair, Saddam Hussein, Slobodan Milosevic, Vladimir Putin, Ariel Sharon, my former client John Wayne Gacy, etc.

Furthermore, according to basic principles of international criminal law, all high-level civilian officials and military officers in the U.S. government who either knew or should have known that soldiers or civilians under their control committed or were about to commit international crimes, and failed to take the measures necessary to stop them, or to punish them, or both, are likewise personally responsible for the commission of international crimes. This category of officialdom who actually knew or at least should have known of the commission of such substantive or inchoate international crimes under their jurisdiction and failed to do anything about it typically includes the Secretary of Defense, Secretary of State, Director of Central Intelligence, the National Security Adviser, the Attorney General, the Pentagon's Joint Chiefs of Staff and regional CINCs, and presumably the President and Vice President. These U.S. government officials and their immediate subordinates, among others, were personally responsible for the commission or at least complicity in the commission of crimes against peace, crimes against humanity, and war crimes as specified by the Nuremberg Charter, Judgment, and Principles - at a minimum. In international legal terms, the Bush Jr. administration itself should be viewed as constituting an ongoing criminal conspiracy under international criminal law.

Consequently, on Tuesday 11 March 2003, with the Bush Jr. administration's war of aggression against Iraq staring the American People, Congress and Republic in their face, Congressman John Conyers of Michigan, the Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee (which has jurisdiction over Bills of Impeachment), convened an emergency meeting of forty or more of his top advisors, most of whom were lawyers. The purpose of the meeting was to discuss and debate immediately putting into the U.S. House of Representatives Bills of Impeachment against President Bush Jr., Vice President Dick Cheney, Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld, and then Attorney General John Ashcroft in order to head off the impending war. Congressman Conyers kindly requested that Ramsey Clark and I come to the meeting in order to argue the case for impeachment.

This impeachment debate lasted for two hours. It was presided over by Congressman Conyers, who quite correctly did not tip his hand one way or the other on the merits of impeachment. He simply moderated the debate between Clark and I, on the one side, favoring immediately filing Bills of Impeachment against Bush Jr. et al. to stop the threatened war, and almost everyone else there who were against impeachment for partisan political reasons. Obviously no point would be served here by attempting to digest a two-hour-long vigorous debate among a group of well-trained lawyers on such a controversial matter at this critical moment in American history. But at the time I was struck by the fact that this momentous debate was conducted at a private office right down the street from the White House on the eve of war.

Suffice it to say that most of the "experts" there opposed impeachment not on the basis of enforcing the Constitution and the Rule of Law, whether international or domestic, but on the political grounds that it might hurt the Democratic Party effort to get their presidential candidate elected in the year 2004. As a political independent, I did not argue that point. Rather, I argued the merits of impeaching Bush Jr., Cheney, Rumsfeld, and Ashcroft under the United States Constitution, U.S. federal laws, U.S. treaties and other international agreements to which the United States is a party, etc. Article VI of the U.S. Constitution provides that treaties "shall be the supreme Law of the Land." This so-called Supremacy Clause of the U.S. Constitution also applies to international executive agreements concluded under the auspices of the U.S. President such as the 1945 Nuremberg Charter.

Congressman Conyers was so kind as to allow me the closing argument in the debate. Briefly put, the concluding point I chose to make was historical: The Athenians lost their democracy. The Romans lost their Republic. And if we Americans did not act now we could lose our Republic! The United States of America is not immune to the laws of history!

After two hours of most vigorous debate among those in attendance, the meeting adjourned with second revised draft Bills of Impeachment sitting on the table.

Certainly, if the U.S. House of Representatives can impeach President Clinton for sex and lying about sex, then a fortiori the House can, should, and must impeach President Bush Jr. for war, lying about war, and threatening more wars. All that is needed is for one Member of Congress with courage, integrity, principles and a safe seat to file these currently amended draft Bills of Impeachment against Bush Jr., Cheney, Rumsfeld, and now Attorney General Albert Gonzales, who bears personal criminal responsibility for the Bush Jr. administration torture scandal. Failing this, the alternative is likely to be an American Empire abroad, a U.S. police state at home, and continuing wars of aggression to sustain both-along the lines of George Orwell's classic novel 1984. Despite all of the serious flaws demonstrated by successive United States governments that this author has amply documented elsewhere during the past quarter century as a Professor of Law, the truth of the matter is that America is still the oldest Republic in the world today. "We the People of the United States " must fight to keep it that way!

http://disc.server.com/discussion.cgi?id=149495;article=85150;show_parent=1


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

http://tinyurl.com/cypbj


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

ACTFORCHANGE ACTIVISM UPDATE: June 9, 2005

ActForChange and Working Assets are proud to bring you an urgent alert from Care2, the largest online network for people who Care2 make a difference. This urgent action calls on Congress to reject health care legislation that will hurt Americans, and will let insurers off the hook when it comes to protecting you and your family.

I urge you to visit Care2 and take action to keep our health care crisis from getting even worse. Together, we are making a difference.

Will Easton
Manager, ActForChange.com/Working Assets

Congress Is Threatening Your Healthcare - You Can Stop Them
http://act.actforchange.com/cgi-bin7/DM/y/hgEQ0IEmZM0PaS0zuq0Es

There's a bill in Congress that's received scant attention, but it could undermine efforts around the country to make health insurance more affordable and more widely available.

Click here to take action!
http://act.actforchange.com/cgi-bin7/DM/y/hgEQ0IEmZM0PaS0zuq0Es

Congress is trying to create a "new" kind of federal health insurance called Association Health Plans. But AHPs are really healthcare that hurts. AHPs mean no protection, no guarantee and no limits on price. They will be exempt from health and consumer protection laws you have in your state. We need to do something about healthcare, but AHPs will make things worse.

* They will be able to raise your rates, as much as and as often as they want. You could face frequent rate hikes because you get sick and file a claim.

* They will take away your right to appeal. Right now, in most states, you have the right to appeal if health insurers refuse to pay your bill, but you won't with AHPs.

* They may not be there to pay your claims. You could get stuck with the bills, because AHPs won't have to keep enough money in the bank to cover your medical expenses.

Only you can stop them. Protect Your Healthcare, a broad alliance that includes the American Federation of Teachers, the AFL-CIO, the American Nurses Association and the National Partnership for Women and Families, is committed to fighting AHPs - and they need your voice now.

Take action today! Sign this petition to stop Congress from creating AHPs - healthcare that hurts.
http://act.actforchange.com/cgi-bin7/DM/y/hgEQ0IEmZM0PaS0zuq0Es

Please pack the public gallery if you can. Your support will be greatly appreciated. Latest press release follows. I will speaking at the meeting but we fear the Cabinet have already been got at. For those of you not up to speed with this, it involves a request by residents to have the Highway Rights extinguished on the land where the mast would go. If that happens the land will pass to the couple who requested the extinguishment because the original ownership of the land is unclear. Orange would still have planning permission but would have to negotiate a contract with the new owners who would not be willing to do a deal. HCC originally agreed to put in the application to the Magistrates Court but got cold feet after talking to Orange. They did not have to consult Orange as in order to be a statutory undertaker, you have to have equipment on a site and Orange don't (yet!).

Regards
Karen Barratt


Press release from Winchester phone mast protesters.
10 June 2005

HCC IN FIRING LINE

Byron Avenue residents will turn out in force for a special Hampshire County Council Cabinet Meeting on Monday 13 June at 10am in the Main Council Chamber, Winchester when the next stage in the country’s longest running phone mast battle is decided. The issue of whether Highway Rights should be extinguished will be hotly contested with residents claiming that HCC have not asked residents for their views.

Karen Barratt, who has campaigned against the Orange mast for four and a half years is outraged that residents have not been consulted over the latest developments. “HCC got in touch with Orange because of their interest in the site but the first most residents heard about the application was through the media,” she said. “This is not acceptable. We have looked after and used this site for over thirty years. If anyone has an interest in it it’s us.”

Campaigners are incensed that the County’s legal department is recommending that the contract entered into with Chilbolton Avenue residents Alan and Anne Saunders, be cancelled. They also claim that the HCC Report shows total ignorance of the layout and history of the site, and that Cabinet members are being asked to make a decision without visiting Byron Avenue.

“The officers seem to be pushing responsibility on to the Cabinet when what they should be doing is letting the matter go to the Magistrates Court as originally agreed,” said Karen Barratt. “I hope the councillors will realise that they are being asked to carry the can for the officers mishandling of this application.”

CONTACTS

Karen Barratt tel: 01962 864388
Caroline St.Leger Davey tel: 01962 865716


From Karen Barratt - Info below for anyone coming to meeting in Winchester on Monday. I'll be away from tomorrow morning until Sunday pm but will look at emails then. Please note I will be leaving for the meeting at around 8.40 on Monday am.

INFO

Thank you for your request to make a deputation at the meeting of the Cabinet on Monday 13 June, 10.00am, Council Chamber, Castle Avenue.

I attach a copy of the agenda for your information and also a link to a map of our offices.
http://www.hants.gov.uk/map/map-castle.html

You will have a maximum of 10 mintues in which to speak. I attach below a link to a factsheet about making a deputation - please note that you are welcome to stay and hear the discussion on the report but are not permitted to join in the discussion or ask questions.

http://www.hants.gov.uk/communications/factsheet2.html

Once all the deputations have been made, the Cabinet will consider the report which I e-mailed you yesterday and take their decision.
If you require any further information in the meantime, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Regards,

Debbie Vaughan
Democratic Services, Chief Executive's Dept
Hampshire County Council
EII Court, The Castle, Winchester, SO23 8UJ
Tel: (01962) 847330 Fax: 01962 878646
e-mail: deborah.vaughan@hants.gov.uk


NOTICE OF MEETING

Meeting CABINET

Date and Time: MONDAY 13 JUNE 2005 AT 10.00AM

Place: THE COUNCIL CHAMBER, THE CASTLE, WINCHESTER

Telephone enquiries to MRS D. A. VAUGHAN
(01962) 841841 ext 7330
e-mail: deborah.vaughan@hants.gov.uk

Peter C B Robertson LLB Solicitor
Chief Executive
The Castle Winchester SO23 8UJ

AGENDA

1. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST

All Members who believe they have a personal or a personal prejudicial interest in any matter to be considered at the meeting must declare their personal interest and having regard to the circumstances described in paragraphs 9, 10, 11 and 12 of the County Council’s Code of Conduct, consider whether to leave the meeting whilst the matter is discussed. The declaration should be made at the time of the relevant debate.

2. CHAIRMAN’S COMMUNICATIONS

3. DEPUTATIONS

4. CONSIDERATION OF A HIGHWAYS RELATED ISSUE
(Report to follow)

To consider a report of the Director of Environment and the Head of Corporate and Legal Services on a request made pursuant to Section 117 of the Highways Act 1980 in respect of an application to the Magistrates Court to extinguish highway rights at Byron Avenue, Winchester.

This agenda is also available on the County Council’s website (click on http://www.hants.gov.uk/decisions) and can be provided on request in large print or Braille or on disk. Contact details as shown above.

County Councillors attending as appointed members of this Committee or by virtue of Standing Order 17.5; or with the concurrence of the Chairman in connection with their duties as members of the Council or as a local County Councillor qualify for travelling expenses.

http://www.cpt.org/archives/2005/jun05/0002.html


From Sojourners

http://www.usatoday.com/weather/climate/2005-06-08-white-house-climate_x.htm?POE=WEAISVA
http://usatoday.printthis.clickability.com/pt/cpt?action=cpt&title=USATODAY.com+-+White+House+defends+editing+of+climate+reports&expire=&urlID=14495754&fb=Y&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.usatoday.com%2Fnews%2Fwashington%2F2005-06-08-white-house-climate_x.htm&partnerID=1660


This shouldn't be considered simply "par for the course," for the Bush syndicate. This should be considered treason. Climate destabilization is without a doubt the greatest present threat to national security and to the future well being of the nation. How is an increase in storms the size of the entire state of Florida any different from bombing an area? How are potential twenty-foot sea level increases not a threat to life and property?

The Bush Syndicate was quite simply acting in the interests of enemies of the state who act in the interest of making themselves filthy rich at the expense of national security, and, well, the future of the entire planet and all future generations.


Andy Caffrey


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

PROGRESSIVE DEMOCRATS OF AMERICA

PDA Works with Conyers and Others to Push for Hearings and Hold Rally in DC

The pressure is on, and we need your support. You can help PDA and its allies continue to put heat on the Bush Administration based on the Downing Street Minutes and this immoral and illegal war.

The scandal surrounding the release of the Downing Street Minutes is reaching a crescendo, a tipping point, and Progressive Democrats of America needs your help right now to place this all-important issue at the forefront of discussion regarding the occupation of Iraq. PDA is working with our allies to organize a hearing and rally in Washington, DC on June 16th to focus attention on the Minutes, and we need your contributions to make it happen.

With grassroots support, PDA was a co-founder of a coalition of more than 50 groups to create www.AfterDowningStreet.org, a site dedicated to demand that Congress pass a formal Resolution of Inquiry and investigate the manner in which we were brought to war in Iraq. And today groups like MoveOn are joining this effort. As part of this effort, Rep. John Conyers has collected nearly 200,000 signatures on his letter demanding that Bush be accountable for the damning information contained in the Minutes. The combined efforts of activists all across the country, along with the work of Rep. Conyers and his House allies, is moving the pile.

You can help us push this issue over the top, and we need your help now. PDA is working with our allies to organize a hearing in Washington DC, as well as a rally in Lafayette Park, on June 16th, regarding the Minutes.

The Minutes, as many of you already know, is an internal secret document from July of 2002 leaked by a British official at the beginning of May. The Minutes clearly state that the premise for invasion was illegal, but that Bush had already decided to make war and so "intelligence and facts were being fixed around the policy." This document exposes the reality behind this invasion, the deliberate lies and misdirection undertaken by the Bush administration to make the invasion happen, and has after the inexplicable passage of weeks without mention in the press, begun to burn hot and bright across the news and political spectrums.

The time is now, and we need your help. Please donate to the activism on this issue here. Go to PDA's site at http://www.pdamerica.org, or visit AfterDowningStreet.org for the most recent information on our activities on this issue. Also, read PDA Political Advisor Steve Cobble's report on the Minutes in The Nation here.

This is the moment. Please join us and help make the Downing Street Minutes the 'Pentagon Papers' of our time. It can happen, and it will happen, with your help.


Informant: Martin Greenhut


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

Global warming is fast becoming the number one environmental problem of our time. Apart from its far-reaching impacts on people, global warming may prove disastrous to the wildlife of Greater Yellowstone, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge and other vulnerable BioGems that are already suffering the effects of a changing climate.

Today, we're asking you to take an important step in our campaign by joining the "Stop Global Warming Virtual March on Washington." This unprecedented Internet effort is led by Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Senator John McCain, NRDC trustee Laurie David and other environmental leaders.

Please go to http://www.stopglobalwarming.org/campaigns/sgw/partner/nrdc/
to join this historic march, and invite your family and friends to do the same.

Together, we will demand that Congress and the Bush administration take the necessary and long overdue steps to reverse potentially catastrophic changes in the Earth's climate.

The Virtual March on Washington will move across the United States via the Internet from one town to the next, educating people about the impacts global warming is already having on our environment, and highlighting personal stories along the way. Through an interactive map, you can track the progress of the march in real time as more and more people join.

The world's leading scientists now agree that global warming is real and is happening right now. According to their forecasts, extreme changes in climate could produce a future in which erratic and chaotic weather, melting ice caps and rising sea levels usher in an era of drought, crop failure, famine, flood and mass extinctions.

The good news is, we have the technology to avert such a catastrophic future.

All that's lacking is the political will in Washington.

That's why we're asking you to march with us -- and enlist others to join -- so that our growing numbers will help light a fire under Congress and the White House.

Please go to http://www.stopglobalwarming.org/campaigns/sgw/partner/nrdc/ and make your own commitment to stop global warming. Our grandchildren will thank us for taking this momentous step in the right direction.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

John H. Adams
President
Natural Resources Defense Council

Frances Beinecke
Executive Director
Natural Resources Defense Council

Sea Shepherd Conservation Society
International Headquarters
PO Box 2616, Friday Harbor, WA 98250
http://www.seashepherd.org
Contact: Heather Callin
(360) 370-5650
heather@seashepherd.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 09, 2005

DISNEY SAYS - SHOW ME THE MONEY!

Shark Finning is Really, Really Bad, But We Want the Money Says Disney.

In a bizarre and completely unacceptable move, Hong Kong Disneyland has offered to distribute a leaflet with every bowl of shark fin soup they plan to serve at wedding banquets at the Disneyland Hotel in Hong Kong. The leaflets will explain that sharks are threatened and that the fins are cruelly removed and the live sharks are sometimes tossed back into the sea to die an agonizing death.

A Disney spokesperson says that this will be an educational campaign. "If customers insist on shark's fin soup we will agree to serve it to them but with a leaflet carrying information on shark fin harvesting," Disney spokeswoman Irene Chan said.

Disney defended its policy saying to not serve sharkskin would be "unthinkable" in Hong Kong where the food is a delicacy and where, because of its high value, its consumption is considered a sign of affluence."

Disney said it will serve shark fin in consideration of "local cultural sensitivities."

Sea Shepherd asks: What next? Whale burgers at Japan's Disneyland or how about doggie burgers for Filipino and Korean customers? Some cultures like cock-fighting and other cultures like monkey brains. If the profit is there, will Disney serve baby seal flipper pie?

Disney apparently believes that exploitation of threatened species and cruelty are justified if cultural demands are present and the price is right.

Disney also defended their plans by saying they will buy only from reputable shark fin dealers in Hong Kong. The problem is that there are no reputable shark fin dealers in Hong Kong.

"Hong Kong is the largest entry point in the world for illegally obtained shark fins," said Captain Paul Watson, president and founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. "The entire shark fin market is polluted with contraband shark products. Disney must really believe that conservationists are stupid enough to accept their bogus 'education and good faith package.'"

Sea Shepherd will not accept anything less than the complete removal of shark fin soup from the menus of any restaurant or hotel owned by the Disney Corporation.

"Forget about finding Nemo," said Captain Watson. "In a decade we won't be able to find a shark in the oceans and Disney will have contributed to that tragedy. Come on Eisner, you've got enough money, leave the sharks alone."

Sea Shepherd Conservation Society is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit organization in the U.S. Founded in 1977 by Captain Paul Watson, Sea Shepherd's mission is to defend, conserve, and protect marine wildlife and their habitats.


From EF! Media Center

This observation - gamma burst affecting the sun - may be an important one.

Andrew Michrowski



ECTV/Breaking News - GRB s Responsible for Solar Extremes?

June 9th 2005

(excerpt)

EARTH CHANGES TV NEWSLETTER

GRB’s Responsible for Solar Extremes?

by Mitch Battros – ECTV

New studies suggest there may be a connection to GRB’s (Gamma Ray Burst) and the Sun’s cycles. As many of you know, I have turned my attention to research the source of the Sun’s cycle. Since I have concluded my studies on the Sun being the source of Earth’s cycles, the next logical question is what drives the Sun. Could it be some rhythmic event coming from our own galaxy as well as surrounding older “elliptical galaxies”?

In an article written by Joshua Bloom, astronomers have uncovered tantalizing insights into the origin of short gamma-ray bursts – mysterious, split-second high-energy flashes that have eluded detailed study until now. Unlike their long-duration cousins, which are known to arise when massive young stars die, short bursts are thought to occur when old, dense neutron stars collide

New evidence supports this distinct progenitor population, heralding the opening of a new chapter in the study of nature's most exotic explosions, according to Joshua Bloom, assistant professor of astronomy at the University of California, Berkeley, and lead author of the study.

The observations leading to this inference are being reported this week at a meeting of the American Astronomical Society and have been detailed in a paper submitted to The Astrophysical Journal.

At the heart of the results is the discovery that a new short gamma-ray burst called GRB 050509b, found by the Swift satellite earlier this month, was positioned near a bright, old galaxy called an elliptical galaxy.

The Orion Nebula is one of the most interesting objects in the sky. To the naked eye, it looks like a star in the sword of the constellation Orion, but with binoculars or a telescope, you can see that it is actually a large glowing cloud of material. This is believed to be a huge star formation region about 1630 light years away. The bright part of the nebula is the glow of many luminous, newborn stars shining on the surrounding gas cloud that they collapsed from.

The most important part of the Orion Nebula is the part we can't see: the opaque Orion Molecular Cloud. This is a huge clump of very cold gas that has a total mass of about 2000 times the mass of the Sun. The gas from this cloud slowly collapses due to gravity to form stars. Whenever a bright, new star is formed, its light evaporates the opaque gaseous "womb" it formed from, allowing us to see it.

So much to learn for both our scientific community, and that of our historical researchers.

http://www.ufppc.org/content/view/2922/


Informant: jensenmk

From ufpj-news

This is my local reply to it!

Sandi

AVISFORD PARK MAST PROPOSAL

DON'T YOU OWE IT TO YOUR CHILDREN TO RESEARCH AND BE SURE?

How safe and confident do you feel about Government assurances that mobile phone masts are not harmful? Do you believe that this new 3G and TETRA is safe?

Read the following press article, which is not an isolated incident before you decide.


LEGAL BID TO MOVE MAST

Tamworth Herald 09 06 05

Legal experts have been called in to investigate whether the mobile phone mast at St Edward's RC Primary School in Coleshill can be pulled down in light of concerns over safety.

Warwickshire LEA bosses have ordered the authority's solicitor to begin an urgent investigation into the deeds of the land on which the mast stands, which was sold to British Telecom by the council 11 years ago.

News of the action was announced on the day mast protestors delivered an informal health survey to the school which appears to show that 98 per cent of pupils are suffering from health problems including headaches, nausea, itchy eyes, tiredness or nosebleeds.

County education officer Eric Wood said: "We are concerned at the issues being raised, in particular legal aspects to do with the use of the land on which the mobile phone mast is situated.

"We are asking the county solicitor to investigate as a matter of urgency because the legal and health and safety concerns of the parents must be treated seriously and dealt with as promptly as possible."

The survey, carried out with parents of 200 children at the school, was not sanctioned by Warwickshire County Council, although it is believed no objections were raised to it being circulated to parents.

But the findings have been seen by headteacher, Gillian Owen, who issued a statement to the Herald saying she shares the concern of the parents and supports them in their campaign to have the mast removed.

"They are leading this effort allowing me to concentrate on the busy day-to-day task of running a successful school. "I look forward to hearing of the developments but am not taking an active part in the group that is looking at this serious issue," she said.

The survey was prepared by mast protestors Jackie Slater and Geraldine Canavan with advice from physicist Dr John Walker - who worked with action group SCRAM in their successful fight against the Wishaw mast.

Scientist Anne Silk, who learned of the survey results in a meeting on May 27, is now presenting the findings to a meeting of the World Health Organisation in Geneva on June 15, to call for a national effort to study the health of every child whose school is close to a phone mast.

You will find research on http://www.mastsanity.org and http://www.tetrawatch.net

If you want to help stop two more 3G masts (as a T-Mobile and 02 dual application) going up on the Southern Water Compound in Carlton Avenue, please contact:

In a message dated 10/06/2005 12:52:51 GMT Standard Time, Mastsanity.org writes:

This is from PR Week, 10 June:

"Orange will use the start-up to reassure parents that 3G phones, which allow acces to the Internet, are safe for children to use."

Andy

--------

I have forwarded the article to Sir W with a copy to Hughes - asking for comments back. Also expressing concern (again) that children are being targetted by unscrupulous phone companies without any check.

Sylvia

--------

They can, Sylvia, and they will. Apart from other things, so much for Sir William Stewart's advice - he is only the Chairman of the HPA, of course!

David B

http://www.ufppc.org/content/view/2924/


Informant: jensenmk

From ufpj-news

http://www.govtech.net/magazine/channel_story.php/94134


Informant: Simo Hayha

http://news.monstersandcritics.com/northamerica/article_1005805.php/Amnesty_International_alleges_U.S._has_secret_prisons


Informant: Charles Bremer

http://mediamatters.org/items/200506060005


Informant: Charles Bremer

http://www.wsws.org/articles/2005/jun2005/oas-j07.shtml


Informant: Charles Bremer

http://www.americanprogressaction.org/site/pp.asp?c=klLWJcP7H&b=738997#2


© Virginia Metze

http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/modules.php?op=modload&name=News&file=article&sid=144&mode=thread&order=0&thold=0


Informant: Carol Wolman


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

by David Usborne
The Independent UK
Monday 06 June 2005

Senior Democrats are calling for the closure of America's detention centre in Guantanamo, Cuba, saying it has become a "propaganda and recruitment tool" for terrorists in the wake of continued allegations of prisoner abuse.

A leading senator, Joseph Biden of Delaware, suggested the time had come to consider a gradual closure of the facility, arguing its worsening reputation around the world was helping to recruit people bent on hurting the US. [...] Read the rest at the Truthout web site: http://www.truthout.org/docs_2005/060605B.shtml


© Virginia Metze

by Marty Schladen
Galveston County Daily News
Published June 6, 2005

House Majority Leader Tom DeLay says he found no victims of sweatshops, sex slavery or forced abortions on the Pacific island of Saipan in the mid-1990s. But Carmencita Abad says that’s because DeLay did not want to see them.

“My answer is, Mr. DeLay, I am that person,” Abad said in a telephone interview. “I am an example of an individual who can prove that the accounts of sweatshop labor and forced prostitution are not just allegations but true accounts of working conditions in the Marianas Islands when Mr. DeLay traveled there and turned a blind eye to our misery.” [...] Read the rest at http://www.galvnews.com/story.lasso?ewcd=2e5931afec8226b9 or http://tinyurl.com/exsec


© Virginia Metze

from their Newsletter

In an impressive week:

* The “Fire Tom DeLay” petition topped out at more than 484,146 signers urging Republicans to fire DeLay as their leader.

* MoveOn volunteers organized 195 events to deliver these signatures to Republican members of Congress and others.

* Thousands of MoveOn volunteers attended or organized the petition deliveries and worked hard to alert the media. It paid off. We’ve seen news stories for about a third of the local events and heard about many more—meaning millions of people heard about their representative's support for Tom DeLay through our efforts.

* We’ve been running ads against seven members of Congress who both come from vulnerable congressional districts and fundraise with DeLay’s help. Contribute to support the radio ads.

Read more on the site of MoveOnPac: http://www.moveonpac.org


© Virginia Metze

By Mike Allen
Washington Post Staff Writer
Monday, June 6, 2005; Page A01
Washington Post

ZANESVILLE, Ohio -- After enlarging their majority in the past two elections, House Republicans have begun to fear that public attention to members' travel and relations with lobbyists will make ethics a potent issue that could cost the party seats in next year's midterm races.

In what Republican strategists call "the DeLay effect," questions plaguing House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-Tex.) are starting to hurt his fellow party members, who are facing news coverage of their own trips and use of relatives on their campaign payrolls. Liberal interest groups have begun running advertising in districts where Republicans may be in trouble, trying to tie the incumbents to their leaders' troubles. [...] Read the rest at the Washington Post: http://tinyurl.com/aag8c

Is this man Conyers a hero or what??? He keeps asking the important questions. Maybe sometime Bush and his cabal will answer them ...

© Virginia Metze

(Bitte alle E-Mail- und Telefonketten anwerfen! Danke.)

In Ahaus tut sich erfreuliches: SchülerInnen verlassen den Unterricht und gehen auf die Straße, 2000 Menschen demonstrieren gegen den Atommüll-Tourismus, viele Hundert Menschen blockieren nachts die Zufahrten zum Zwischenlager und die Gegenseite wird nervös.

Doch es geht um mehr: Angela Merkel will die AKW-Laufzeiten verlängern, die UAA Gronau soll schon jetzt drastisch ausgebaut werden - die Renaissance der Atomkraft wird in den Medien beschworen. Dagegen müssen wir Widerstand leisten.

Deshalb rufen wir euch auf, am kommenden Montag, 13. Juni nach Ahaus zur Großdemo gegen die Castoren und für den sofortigen Atomausstieg zu kommen.

Die letzten zwei Wochen haben gezeigt, wir sind wieder im Aufwind und wir können auf der Straße Menschen mobilisieren. Lasst uns jetzt ein deutliches Zeichen setzen, damit auch die neue Landesregierung gleich kapiert, dass die Menschen im Münsterland den Atomausstieg wollen und nicht Atommüll in Ahaus oder Urananreicherung in Gronau.

Die Demonstration beginnt um 20 Uhr am Ahauser Bahnhof. Zuvor gibt es ab 19 Uhr zur Einstimmung ein Open-Air-Konzert, unter anderem mit Klaus dem Geiger. Danach geht es zum Zwischenlager, wo wieder eine angemeldete Mahnwache stattfinden wird.

Stoppt die Renaissance der Atomkraft!

Atomfeindliche Grüße

BI Ahaus, Wiga Münster, Aktionsbündnis Münsterland gegen Atomanlagen

Administration's offenses impeachable
http://omega.twoday.net/stories/739412/

Anyone with a drop of humanity in them will agree that there is no greater crime than to lie knowingly in order to to mislead a nation to war. To sacrifice countless lives of innocent people, those of your own fellow countrymen, for personal profit.

I call this kind of action a treason against America.

As a republican american who stands for honesty and integrity, I call for the impeachment of President Bush. This is beyond outrageous and must be brought to justice.

The chicken reporters in this country may cower to touch this subject for fear of losing their jobs and lives, but I have no such qualms.

Anyone with true American patriotism in their blood will join my call. Your fellow countrymen are dying in Iraq at this very moment...


Charles Bremer


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

http://www.buzzflash.com/interviews/05/06/int05024.html


Informant: Charles Shaw (Newtopia)

From ufpj-news]

http://www.teltarif.de/arch/2005/kw23/s17407.html


http://omega.twoday.net/topics/RFID/

http://disc.server.com/discussion.cgi?id=149495;article=85116;show_parent=1


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

Well, it's really starting to happen, folks. As of this afternoon, Rep. John Conyers has gotten 289,000 signatures from Americans who want President Bush to answer the questions Conyers has posed about the Downing Street Minutes. He also has 95 fellow House members signed on as well -- including 5 Republicans (and one of them, believe it or not, is the NC Rep who came up with "Freedom Fries").

Keep in mind that two weeks ago when Conyers first put out a call for signatures, his goal was 100,000. But this momentum is just getting started. MoveOn.org has now jumped on the bandwagon and aims to get 300,000 of its members to sign on. And an industrious Kossak over at DailyKos [the blog at http://www.dailykos.com] set out on a campaign to get a whole slew of unions and associations to put the letter out to their members, hoping to reach 10 million people with an appeal to join the DSM Truth Movement. She already has the interest of AARP, which has 35 million members. http://www.dailykos.com/story/2005/6/9/64057/69535

So there could easily by half a million signatures by June 16, when Conyers will hold hearings and introduce new documents corroborating the allegations in the Downing Street Minutes. Then, after the hearings, Conyers, his 95 House co-signers, the witnesses and a citizen's rally convening at Lafayette Park are all going to walk the letter over to the White House and dare Bush not to receive it. That's going to look great in the history books.

House Judiciary Democrats to hold hearings on Downing Street minutes http://snipurl.com/fh95

And thanks to a British journalist with the nads to ask Bush and Blair about the minutes at their recent joint presser, the MSM is finally (if grudgingly) covering the DSM. Though Wapo's Dan Froomkin notes that the Downing Street Minutes may be the LEAST of Bush's worries.

The Memo Comes In From the Cold
http://snipurl.com/fh9n

And I say again folks, you don't want to be on the wrong side of history. Read and sign the Conyers Letter if you haven't already.
http://snipurl.com/fh93

http://www.afterdowningstreet.org/

Sign Rep. John Conyers's demand for a resolution of inquiry about the Downing Street Memo: http://www.johnconyers.com/


Note – this afternoon Rep. Conyers said he had about 300,000 signatures. About 5 hours later, he had another 8,000.

Also:

Six leaked documents from Downing Street: Hurry! Copy and save to your hard drive

http://www.edwardsdavid.com/media/iraq/reports/leaks-brief.zip
http://cryptome.quintessenz.org/mirror/leaks-brief.zip

leaks-brief.zip
http://tinyurl.com/98mo5


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

by PAUL KRUGMAN
Op-Ed Columnist

http://www.nytimes.com/2005/06/10/opinion/10krugman.html

Published: June 10, 2005

Baby boomers like me grew up in a relatively equal society. In the 1960's America was a place in which very few people were extremely wealthy, many blue-collar workers earned wages that placed them comfortably in the middle class, and working families could expect steadily rising living standards and a reasonable degree of economic security.

But as The Times's series on class in America reminds us, that was another country. The middle-class society I grew up in no longer exists.

Working families have seen little if any progress over the past 30 years. Adjusted for inflation, the income of the median family doubled between 1947 and 1973. But it rose only 22 percent from 1973 to 2003, and much of that gain was the result of wives' entering the paid labor force or working longer hours, not rising wages.

Meanwhile, economic security is a thing of the past: year-to-year fluctuations in the incomes of working families are far larger than they were a generation ago. All it takes is a bit of bad luck in employment or health to plunge a family that seems solidly middle-class into poverty.

But the wealthy have done very well indeed. Since 1973 the average income of the top 1 percent of Americans has doubled, and the income of the top 0.1 percent has tripled.

Why is this happening? I'll have more to say on that another day, but for now let me just point out that middle-class America didn't emerge by accident. It was created by what has been called the Great Compression of incomes that took place during World War II, and sustained for a generation by social norms that favored equality, strong labor unions and progressive taxation. Since the 1970's, all of those sustaining forces have lost their power.

Since 1980 in particular, U.S. government policies have consistently favored the wealthy at the expense of working families - and under the current administration, that favoritism has become extreme and relentless. From tax cuts that favor the rich to bankruptcy "reform" that punishes the unlucky, almost every domestic policy seems intended to accelerate our march back to the robber baron era.

It's not a pretty picture - which is why right-wing partisans try so hard to discredit anyone who tries to explain to the public what's going on.

These partisans rely in part on obfuscation: shaping, slicing and selectively presenting data in an attempt to mislead. For example, it's a plain fact that the Bush tax cuts heavily favor the rich, especially those who derive most of their income from inherited wealth. Yet this year's Economic Report of the President, in a bravura demonstration of how to lie with statistics, claimed that the cuts "increased the overall progressivity of the federal tax system."

The partisans also rely in part on scare tactics, insisting that any attempt to limit inequality would undermine economic incentives and reduce all of us to shared misery. That claim ignores the fact of U.S. economic success after World War II. It also ignores the lesson we should have learned from recent corporate scandals: sometimes the prospect of great wealth for those who succeed provides an incentive not for high performance, but for fraud.

Above all, the partisans engage in name-calling. To suggest that sustaining programs like Social Security, which protects working Americans from economic risk, should have priority over tax cuts for the rich is to practice "class warfare." To show concern over the growing inequality is to engage in the "politics of envy."

But the real reasons to worry about the explosion of inequality since the 1970's have nothing to do with envy. The fact is that working families aren't sharing in the economy's growth, and face growing economic insecurity. And there's good reason to believe that a society in which most people can reasonably be considered middle class is a better society - and more likely to be a functioning democracy - than one in which there are great extremes of wealth and poverty.

Reversing the rise in inequality and economic insecurity won't be easy: the middle-class society we have lost emerged only after the country was shaken by depression and war. But we can make a start by calling attention to the politicians who systematically make things worse in catering to their contributors. Never mind that straw man, the politics of envy. Let's try to do something about the politics of greed.

E-mail: krugman@nytimes.com


Informant: DitziSis

Amanda spotted this on the Guardian Unlimited site and thought you should see it.

-------

Note from Amanda:

One of the few people to benefit from the myth that masts are safe!

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To see this story with its related links on the Guardian Unlimited site, go to
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/story/0,,1503380,00.html

Vodafone chief leads pay stakes with £5m

Nils Pratley
Friday June 10, 2005
The Guardian

Vodafone chief executive Arun Sarin collected £2.7m last year by exercising share options and received a pay and benefits package potentially worth £4.9m.

The sums confirm the status of Mr Sarin, an American who became chief executive in July 2003, as one of the highest remunerated bosses of a British company.

Share option windfalls have been a rarity at Vodafone in recent years because the group's share price has never regained the heights achieved during the technology boom of the late 1990s.

However, Mr Sarin still held options from 1993 when he was running US firm AirTouch, which became a Vodafone subsidiary. These converted into 5m options over Vodafone shares at 95p and the time-limit for exercising them was about to expire. Mr Sarin appears to have netted a gain of £2.7m from selling the shares at 148p.

On top, he enjoyed a salary of £1.17m, representing a £75,000 pay rise, and was awarded shares worth £1.15m under a short-term bonus plan. He also received benefits of £183,000, the bulk of which covered the costs of his move to the UK from the US.

The remaining £2.4m of his £4.9m package last year comprised shares awarded dependent on performance.

To receive the maximum award, Vodafone will have to rank among the 20% of telecoms companies in terms of shareholder returns over a three-year period. A company spokesman argued the performance conditions were "very stringent".

Man Group also confirmed its place among Britain's biggest payers yesterday as the hedge fund manager's annual report revealed its four executive directors shared £11.3m in pay and bonuses last year.

It still represented a fall for chief executive Stanley Fink, whose £3.81m was down from £4.52m a year ago - the bulk of the sum comprised a £3.3m bonus. On top, he received shares worth almost £400,000 under a share-matching bonus scheme.

But the bulk of Mr Fink's personal fortune is still his direct shareholding in the firm - his 4.5m shares are worth £63m.

Other members of the management team, which led Man's transformation over the last 15 years from commodity broker to hedge fund manager, have even larger stakes. Chairman Harvey McGrath, who was paid £362,000 last year as part-time chairman, has shares worth £83m and fellow non-executive Stephen Nesbitt has £76m worth.

Kevin Davis, head of Man's brokerage division, was the only executive to exercise share options during the year. He netted £280,000 that was on top of his basic package of £2.96m, of which £2.5m was a bonus.

Man's traditional high level of bonuses was maintained even though the group described its year only as "robust" compared to the spectacular growth it has seen in the recent past.

Most hedge fund managers have struggled in the face of increased competition and a seemingly tougher investment climate.

However, Man ended the year with $43bn (£23.6bn) under management despite a fall of 5.4% in the return from AHL Diversified, the key trend-following computer programme which is at the heart of the group's product portfolio.


Copyright Guardian Newspapers Limited

Die plötzliche Ankündigung von Neuwahlen hat auch uns völlig überrascht. Eine Kampagne gegen Steuergeschenke an Großunternehmen wurde erfreulicherweise obsolet. Die Unternehmenssteuerreform kommt wohl diese Legislaturperiode nicht mehr. Es ist zu befürchten, dass sich Campact nach der Wahl vor wichtigen Kampagnenthemen kaum wird retten können. Prominent diskutieren wir die Energiepolitik und die Gesundheitspolitik.

Wir werden wie bisher parteiunabhängig als Stimme der Bürger agieren – aber Position beziehen und uns einmischen. Schreiben Sie uns, was Sie dazu denken an info@campact.de.


Günter Metzges

http://www.demo.stoppt-softwarepatente.de

Weit über 2.000 Menschen haben in den letzten Wochen per E-Mail von Campact und Attac gegen die geplante EU-Softwarepatentrichtlinie demonstriert. Die Front der Befürworter der Richtlinie unter den Abgeordneten scheint deutlich geschwächt: Nach Campact-Recherchen wollen ein Drittel der Parlamentarier gegen die Richtlinie stimmen http://www.campact.de/stopptswp/mepbyname . Über die Hälfte der Abgeordneten ist allerdings noch unentschieden – sie müssen wir bis zur Abstimmung am 7. Juli überzeugen (Weitere Infos:
http://www.stoppt-softwarepatente.de/stopptswp/5minuteninfo)

Beteiligen Sie sich mit Ihrem Foto an der europaweiten Online-Demonstration von Campact und Attac unter

http://www.demo.stoppt-softwarepatente.de

Brüssel ist weit, deswegen gehen wir im Internet demonstrieren!

Hunderte Menschen laden ein Photo von sich auf unsere Webseite. Die Bilder setzen sich zum Schriftzug „No Software-Patents“ zusammen. Mit jedem hochgeladenen Photo tritt dieser deutlicher in Erscheinung. Kurz vor der Abstimmung im Europäischen Parlament werden wir dann die Online-Demonstration als großes Banner in Brüssel entrollen. Doch damit der Plan klappt, brauchen wir Ihre Unterstützung!

--------

Gehören Online-Demos zu den Bürgerrechten?

Die Stiftung bridge will Zivilcourage in der digitalen Gesellschaft fördern und unterstützt neben "Libertad!" die Online-Kampagne von attac gegen Softwarepatente.

http://www.telepolis.de/tp/r4/artikel/20/20287/1.html

(translated from the greek, so pardon any strange errors)

Davey Garland



“Balkan Syndrome” second part

by Georgia Linardou and Paschali Koronaiou

“Sunday Eleftherotipia” – 05/06/2005

The nightmare of “Balkan Syndrome” strikes Greek armed forces also! Three military men have lost their lives from forms of malformation and all of them have participated in the first missions in Bosnia. The most recent case is of a 36-year-old Martial Navy officer, who after two years of ‘battle’ in hospitals, died of leukaemia. A 40-year-old captain and a 32-year-old non-commissioned officer preceded him.

The issue of repercussions from the use of Depleted Uranium has been introduced initially by Belgians and Italians, causing great agitation in Europe. From then onwards victims keep on counted in various countries, regardless if NATO insists that the guilty missiles are “substantially harmless”; an opinion with which agrees the Greek ministry of National Defence too.

“However, up to today, the Americans have informed no one of the Allies for the exact type of substance that the missiles which they threw in Bosnia and Kossifopedio, contained” a Pentagon officer points out.

The case of the 36-year-old frogman of Martial Navy brings the question in the surface again. He was one of the first who went to Bosnia as observers in 1997. He ‘passed’ from Visoko where the Greek pacificatory force camped later.

As his colleagues say, his team seems to have been found itself within a breath’s distance from the point that the Allies had been bombarded, hardly an hour and a half earlier”. The standardbearer in the degree, served periodically until 1997 when he returned to Greece. Leukaemia struck him two and a half years ago.

“The Greek Navy never admitted it but we all had the same thoughts and opinion” one of his colleagues admits now. When his illness was diagnosed the 36-year-old frogman took a leave without compensation, he went through medical examinations in the Naval Hospital and the last year he was transported in a clinic in London. His wife was also in the same hospital and gave birth to their child. He saw his baby only three hours before he died, the 5th of May.

The same also happened to his captain, with who were together in the same team in Bosnia, as well as to another officer who was together with them in that mission.

Medical ‘circles’ of the Naval Hospital claim that the standard-bearer suffered from “chronic leukaemia” and that in his case depleted uranium cannot be incriminated.

According to valid information, military circles have expressed occasionally fears for the Greek missions in Bosnia. They speculate that they have been exposed in situations of high danger and this because certain additional measures of precaution for the health of their personnel have been undertaken, after the noise publicity caused about the repercussions of bombardments.

Officers that have dealt closely with the possible repercussions in the health of military men, underline the importance of potable water. They suggest, for example, appliances of refinement of water with special filters, appliances which were only provided to the personnel of Greek pacificatory missions only the last five years. They argue that cases of leukaemia in the personnel of foreign missions situated in the same region with the Greeks, have been confirmed.

Furthermore, relatives of foreign military men who were attacked by illnesses sued Nato, that nevertheless doesn’t accept that there exists any such a problem of contamination, invoking that the Greeks …have not demonstrated any symptoms..

It is particularly curious –the same sources point out- that after the bombardments in the Kossifopedio, the Americans stopped to provide their personnel with water from Northern Greece and started buying bottled water from…Loutraki. Why? I wonder

Up to now, the Ministry of National Defence has officially admitted only one case of a Greek sergeant that had served in Bosnia and was medically attended due to leukaemia in the 424 Military Hospital of Thessalonica in 2001. The minister of National Defence at that period, A, Tsochatzopoulos had declared that medical examinations would be conducted on everyone of the military personnel that serviced in Bosnia and Kossifopedio. These were estimated above 3.500 thousand people. However, in reality, only few, a minimal number, were submitted in whole-body radiation meter examinations!

Mr. N. Katsaros (former MP), who at the time was in “Dimokritos” confirms today the exceptionally limited turn-out of officers served in Bosnia. Others from the Greek Committee of Atomic Energy confirm the same.

The question however still remains at the prophetic statement, made in 2001 by L.Kamarinopoulos the chairman of the Greek Committee of Atomic Energy: “the results of this exposure will start to appear seven years later”.

It is worth noting that only the last three years additional measures and special examinations have started to take place for all the personnel that participate in pacificatory missions; after additional equipment had been installed in the military hospital of Athens.

In addition, every military man is submitted in specialised medical examinations depending on the country of destination.


http://omega.twoday.net/topics/Depleted+Uranium+Poisoning+%28D.U.%29/
http://tinyurl.com/9qt4x

http://stangoff.com/index.php?p=102


Informant: Friends

http://www.iacenter.org/warcrime/sgoff.htm


Informant: Friends

http://www.sptimes.com/News/102900/Business/Influence_and_bailout.shtml


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo


Informant: DitziSis

09. Jun 20:04

In den USA könnte es bald erlaubt sein, während des Fluges zu telefonieren. Doch gegen eine Lockerung des Handy-Verbots an Bord gibt es jetzt Widerstand von unerwarteter Seite.

Amerikanische Astronomen haben sich gegen Überlegungen ausgesprochen, das Nutzen von Handys während des Fluges zu erlauben. Sie weisen darauf hin, dass die Handys die ohnehin schwache Radiostrahlung aus dem All beeinträchtigen könnten. Das berichtet das Fachmagazin «NewScientist».

Von der Strahlung der Handys sind neben den herkömmlichen auch Frequenzen betroffen, die eigentlich für Astronomen «reserviert» sind, die das Entstehen und Vergehen von Sternen erforschen. Daher könnte der Gebrauch von Handys in Flugzeugen «ein Desaster für uns bedeuten», erläutert Michael Davis, Projektleiter am kalifornischen «SETI Institute», das Anzeichen außerterrestrischer Intelligenz erforscht.

Ernsthafter Schaden befürchtet

«Wir haben ungeheuer sensible Radio-Teleskope. Selbst ein einzelnes Mobiltelefon in einem einzigen Flugzeug, das 100 Meilen entfernt ist, könnte ernsthaften Schaden anrichten.« Das liegt unter anderem daran, dass die Signale der Handys anders als auf dem Erdboden in der Luft nicht von Bäumen oder Gebäuden abgeschwächt werden und so mit voller Kraft auf die Teleskope der Astronomen treffen.

Eine Vorrichtung namens »picocell« ist nach Meinung der Forscher geeignet, das Problem zu entschärfen. In Flugzeugen könnte es als lokaler Sendemast dienen, der die Signale der Handys abfängt und dadurch den befürchteten Schaden für die Forschung reduzieren hilft. (nz)

http://www.netzeitung.de/internet/343064.html


Nachricht von der BI Bad Dürkheim

06/09/05

We may look back on some eras as heroic -- that of the Founding Fathers or 'the greatest generation' that fought World War II. But some eras we look back on in disbelief at the utter stupidity with which people ruined their economies or blundered into wars in which every country involved ended up worse off than before. How will people a century from now look back on our era? Fortunately, most of us will be long gone by then, so we will be spared the embarrassment of seeing ourselves judged. What will future generations say about how we behaved when confronted by international terrorist organizations that have repeatedly demonstrated their cutthroat ruthlessness and now the prospect of getting nuclear weapons from rogue nations like Iran and North Korea?

http://www.washtimes.com/commentary/20050608-092107-5862r.htm

from Washington Times, by Thomas Sowell


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp

06/10/05

It is time that Americans speak out to the world. I do not mean the Americans that are dead heads to the atrocities being committed against the American people and to the people of the world. Most of all I do not mean the so-called Christians and others that support the slaughter of Iraqis and of Afghanis that still continue to this day. It does not matter whether it is tribal or 'insurgent' killing that is going on or direct killing by the US Military; the killing and maiming is due to unlawful and illegal actions by the Republican Party...

http://www.libertyforall.net/2005/june14/represent.html


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp


from Liberty For All, by Ed Lewis

In a striking departure from centuries of American belief in rule of law, President Bush gave his approval Monday to a limited experiment in public vigilantism 'to see if it works.' 'Groups of dedicated citizens who band together for a common cause -- be it rounding up car thieves or castigating suspicious loiterers -- strengthen and reinforce the social order,' Bush said at a White House press conference. 'I've never supported government intrusion in people's lives; I've always put more faith in the private sector. So I say, what the heck! Let's give vigilantism a go and see how things shake out. Why not?' [satire ... for now!] (06/08/05)

http://www.theonion.com/news/index.php?issue=4123

from The Onion, by Staff


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp

06/09/05

Despite the facts, the administration's efforts to connect 9/11 to the war in Iraq have been a signal success. In fact, standing on the ash heap of mistakes and lies that have led to the deaths of more than 1,600 Americans, cost more than $100 billion and shows no sign of an early or favorable outcome, this administration was re-elected largely on the basis of its perceived competence to protect us from further terrorism. This is a triumph of fear over rationality. If you doubt the role of fear in our lives, look at our current fondness for evangelical Christianity, with its visions of a rapture in which the believers are saved and the rest of humanity is consigned to apocalyptic punishment. Is it a coincidence that our fear-driven foreign policy is the creation of a faith-based administration?

http://tinyurl.com/bnqqe

from Baltimore Sun, by Gordon Livingston


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp

06/09/05

The Bush Administration used Amnesty International's reports to push its case for war on Iraq. But when the organization criticized abuses in U.S. military prisons, the gloves came off...

http://www.alternet.org/story/22197/

from AlterNet, by Stephen Zunes


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

06/10/05

On Tuesday, more than a month after the 'Downing Street memo' first appeared on Britain's front pages, a Reuters correspondent asked George W. Bush and Tony Blair to explain the secret document that says the Bush administration had decided by July 2002 to invade Iraq -- and that the intelligence on Saddam Hussein's arsenal was then being 'fixed' to bolster an otherwise exceedingly 'thin' justification for war. While the president and the prime minister airily attempted to dismiss the explosive memo -- just as many mainstream and conservative journalists in the United States did at first -- they have a lot more explaining to do. History will hold them accountable even if the press does not. For unlike previous indications of Bush's duplicity in promoting the war, this document provides historical evidence of a kind that usually remains hidden in a vault for years or even decades"... [subscription or ad view required]

http://www.salon.com/opinion/conason/2005/06/10/downing_street_memo/

from Salon, by Joe Conason


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

06/09/05

Bush and his cohorts are sweating. Amnesty has them in an angry, defensive mode because they are afraid. Why do they fear? They know the allegations are true. They also recognize that even the leaders of the mighty United States are subject to international law. The international court of public opinion has already found them guilty, which does not bode well for the Neocons. Gandhi's perpetuation of a large civil disobedience movement in colonial India swayed world opinion to the degree that the British finally relented and left India a sovereign nation. The Bush regime comprehends that the movement against their corrupt abuses of power is gaining momentum both domestically and abroad, and they are feeling the heat...

http://www.freeliberal.com/archives/001116.html

from The Free Liberal, by Jason Miller


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

06/09/05

Democratic freedom (liberal democracies) is a solution to war, internal violence, democide, famine, and national impoverishment. Thus, fostering freedom is a way to global peace and human security. The more unfree, or totalitarian a regime, the more its rulers will murder its people, and is likely to make war. Such thug regimes have killedseveral times more people than have wars. Thus, on the scale of bodies, thugs are more to be feared than war...

http://tinyurl.com/a2aug

from Freedom's Peace, by R.J. Rummel


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp

Germany

06/09/05

A fictional crime drama based on the premise that the Bush administration ordered the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center and Washington aired this week on German state television, prompting the Green Party chairman to call for an investigation. 'I think absolutely nothing of the conspiracy theory that has been hawked in this series. I hope this particular TV movie will be discussed very critically at the next supervisory board meeting of ARD [state television],' said Green Party Chairman Reinhard Buetikofer. Sunday night's episode of 'Tatort,' a popular murder mystery that has been running on state-run ARD-German television for 35 years, revolved around a German woman and a man who was killed in her apartment. According to the plot, the dead man had been trained to be one of the September 11 pilots but was left behind, only to be tracked down and killed by CIA or FBI assassins...

http://www.washtimes.com/world/20050608-095942-4588r.htm

from Washington Times


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp

06/09/05

Up to a third of scientists have engaged in ethically questionable practices over the last three years, according to a survey published in today's issue of the British science journal Nature. The surveyed behaviors range from extremely serious acts such as fraud and plagiarism -- which were committed by only a fraction of a percent to 1. 4 percent, respectively -- to acts that are ethically far more ambiguous, such as ignoring data that contradict one's theory. The survey does not necessarily mean that one-third of all the biomedical scientists surveyed are guilty of misconduct. ... Still, [it] suggests that science is becoming so competitive and so dominated by big business that many scientists repeatedly find themselves faced by uncomfortable ethical choices -- and the decisions they make may not always be the wisest...

http://tinyurl.com/a8u4g

from San Francisco Chronicle


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=betrayal

06/09/05

Revelations that the House ethics committee chairman had contacts with a law firm connected to the ethics controversy about House Majority Leader Tom DeLay's overseas trips fueled demands Wednesday for the case to be turned over to an independent investigator. The firm that employed lobbyist Jack Abramoff had an ongoing relationship with U.S. Rep. Doc Hastings, R-Wash., chairman of the ethics panel, as the firm lobbied for the Commonwealth of Northern Marianas Islands government, according to law firm records"...

http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/ssistory.mpl/politics/3217571

from Houston Chronicle


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp

06/09/05

Senate Democrats will not allow a vote on President Bush's choice for U.N. ambassador unless the White House hands over records of communications intercepts Bolton sought from the secretive National Security Agency, Minority Leader Harry Reid said Thursday. 'You can't ignore the Senate. We've told them what we've wanted. The ball is in his court,' Reid, D-Nevada, told CNN. 'If they want John Bolton as ambassador to the United Nations, give us this information. If they don't, there will be no Bolton'...

http://tinyurl.com/apxdk

from CNN


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp

06/09/05

President Bush, facing efforts by some in his own party to scale back the post-Sept. 11 Patriot Act, says it has made America safer and should be made permanent. 'The Patriot Act closed dangerous gaps in America's law enforcement and intelligence capabilities, gaps the terrorists exploited when they attacked us on September the 11th,' Bush said. ... During Bush' 2004 re-election campaign, he made preserving the law a common refrain, but he has rarely spoken of it since. His renewed focus came as Congress has begun working on the act's renewal amid fresh criticisms -- from members of both parties -- that it undermines basic freedoms. Bush pressured Congress to make the expiring provisions permanent. His administration also is seeking greater powers for the FBI to subpoena records in terrorism investigations without the approval of a judge or grand jury...

http://tinyurl.com/auuwu

from Yahoo! News


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp



http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

http://www.counterpunch.org/yeaw06092005.html


Informant: NHNE

http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/printstory.mpl/nation/3218519


Informant: Friends

http://www.buzzflash.com/interviews/05/06/int05023.html


Informant: Friends


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

The Pentagon is continuing to fight the war in Iraq, by controlling the way it is perceived at home in the press. I have a plea to the people of the press who read this post: PLEASE DO NOT LET THIS SLIP OUT OF THE NEWS!!! This is a very important story -- much more important than the Michael Jackson trial -- (the top story right now on cnn.com, intentionally not hyperlinked).

http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/?Page=Article&ID=3517

Washington Post writer Dan Froomkin addresses the White House's stance on the Downing Street Memo, the Kyoto protocols and the environment, and other issues.

http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/?Page=Article&ID=3516


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

The FBI has stumbled badly in attempts to remake itself since the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks and is plagued by high turnover, poor training and its continued inability to build a modern computer system, according to a panel convened Monday by the members of the commission that investigated the terror strikes. The problems are so acute that members of the influential commission may want to reconsider whether the United States needs a separate agency to handle domestic intelligence, one Democratic member said.

http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/?Page=Article&ID=3513

--------

Report shows FBI's missed 9/11 chances

06/09/05

The FBI missed at least five opportunities before the Sept. 11 attacks to uncover vital intelligence information about the terrorists, and the bureau didn't aggressively pursue the information it did have, the Justice Department's inspector general says in a newly released critique of government missteps. The IG faulted the FBI for not knowing about the presence of two of the Sept. 11 terrorists in the United States and for not following up on an agent's theory that Osama bin Laden was sending students to U.S. flight training schools. The agent's theory turned out to be precisely what bin Laden did...

http://tinyurl.com/d3h2y


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp

In a move that could expand the police powers in the Patriot Act, the Senate Intelligence Committee will meet behind close doors to discuss, among other things, "a little-discussed provision to enlarge the FBI's ability to wiretap people who it suspects are national security threats." The bill they will discuss is called the Patriot Reauthorization Act (PAREA).

http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/?Page=Article&ID=3512

Attac Deutschland & Campact
Pressemitteilung
Frankfurt, 10. Juni 2005

* Attac und Campact starten europaweite Online-Demonstration:
* Gesicht zeigen gegen Softwarepatente!

Das Online-Bürgernetzwerk Campact und Attac haben heute eine europaweite Online-Demonstration gegen Softwarepatente gestartet.

Einen Monat vor der entscheidenden Abstimmung im Europäischen Parlament am 6. Juli rufen sie Bürger dazu auf, ein Foto von sich auf die Kampagnenwebseite http://www.demo.stoppt-softwarepatente.de zu stellen. Die Fotos setzen sich zu einem Bild mit dem Slogan "No e-Patents" zusammen, der mit jedem hochgeladenen Foto deutlicher in Erscheinung tritt.

"Jedes Foto stärkt den Parlamentariern den Rücken, sich der Lobbymacht der großen Softwarekonzerne zu widersetzen", sagte Christoph Bautz, Pressesprecher von Campact. "Die Bürger Europas zeigen Gesicht, damit freie Software sowie kleine und mittelständische Unternehmen weiterhin eine Chance haben." Sie wollten sich nicht noch mehr in die Abhängigkeit der große Softwarekonzerne begeben, weil dadurch Software teurer, weniger innovativ und qualitativ schlechter werde.

Diese Weiterentwicklung des Konzeptes der Online-Demonstration wurde von der Attac AG Wissensallmende entwickelt. Die europäischen Softwarepatentgegner machen nun damit öffentlichen Druck. "Wir wollen mit dieser Aktion Tausende aus ganz Europa zusammenbringen, die mit ihrem Gesicht ein gemeinsames Zeichen des Protest gegen Softwarepatente setzen", sagte Oliver Moldenhauer von Attac. "Wir demonstrieren auch gegen das undemokratische Vorgehen von Justizministerin Zypries, die den Beschluss des Bundestages gegen Softwarepatente bisher einfach ignoriert."

Die Aktion läuft bis zum 4. Juli. An diesem Tag wird der aus den Fotos gebildete Slogan als großes Banner vor dem Europäischen Parlament in Straßburg entrollt werden. Die Aktion wird bisher unterstützt von Attac Deutschland, Frankreich, Italien und Österreich, der belgischen Association Electronique Libre, Campact, dem Chaos Computer Club, der FoeBuD und dem politischen Internet-Provider Heinlein-Support. Finanzielle Unterstützung erhält die Aktion von der Stiftung "Bridge – Bürgerrechte in der digitalen Gesellschaft".

Weitere Informationen:

* 5min-Info zum Thema Softwarepatente:
http://www.stoppt-softwarepatente.de/stopptswp/5minuteninfo

* Demo-Aufruf:
http://demo.stoppt-softwarepatente.de/index.php?content=appeal

* Fassung der Demonstration in Druckqualität:
http://www.stoppt-softwarepatente.de/stopptswp/photos

Für Rückfragen:
* Oliver Moldenhauer, Tel. 0163-3071523
* Christoph Bautz, Tel. 0163-5957593


Malte Kreutzfeldt
Pressesprecher Attac Deutschland
Post: Münchener Str. 48, 60329 Frankfurt/M
Tel.: 069/900 281-42, Mail: presse@attac.de, Fax: 069/900 281-99

Diese Nachricht erreichte mich heute von Verantwortlichen der Initiative...

"Ein geplanter UMTS-Sender wurde von der Schärdinger Initiative und dem Umwelt-Stadtrat vorerst einmal "abgeblasen", woraufhin der Betreiber mit so "üblichen" erpresserischen Argumenten antwortete: "Dann kommen eben 2 "schlechtere" Standorte!" - (Zur Erklärung: Schlechter geht es ja fast nicht mehr. Denn ein großer Sender steht unmittelbar neben dem Krankenhaus, 3 Sender sind auf dem fast benachbarten Kellerbräu-Gebäude; darauf wollte T-mobile noch einen 4. Sender setzen.........Wann werden endlich derartige Frechheiten beendet werden?)

Anbei der Bericht aus den OÖ. Nachrichten. Eine Bemerkung wie "Nun muss sich endlich der Oberste Sanitätsratsdirektor mit dem Problem befassen. Bisher wurde stets weggesehen, als der Direktion die Betroffenen-Berichte vorgelegt wurden und die Herren Amtsärzte mit der OÖ. Mobilfunk-Initiative beim Landeshauptmann an einem Runden Tisch saßen."

Mit freundlichen Grüßen

Michael Meyer
michael_meyer@aon.at
Risiko Mobilfunk Österreich
Plattform Sozialstaat Österreich - Netzwerk Zivilcourage
A - 5165 Berndorf, Stadl 4
Tel/Fax 0043 - 6217 - 8576


Weiter Informationen zum Thema:

http://www.buergerwelle.com
http://www.buergerwelle.com/body_newsletter_90605.html
http://www.salzburg.gv.at (unter Mobilfunk)
http://www.borg-aussee.at
http://www.maes.de
http://www.waldorf-salzburg.info


Oberösterreichische Nachrichten vom 08.06.2005

WERNSTEIN. Nach einer Häufung von Krebserkrankungen in Wernstein fordern die Betroffenen eine genaue Untersuchung. Die Strahlung von zwei Handymasten sei verantwortlich. Die Landes-Sanitätsdirektion beruhigt.

"In einem vergleichsweise kleinen Gebiet zählen wir auffallend viele Krebserkrankungen", so Wernsteins Gemeindearzt Heinrich Grünberger. "Das kann natürlich statistischer Zufall sein. Wir sollten die Sache auf jeden Fall genauer untersuchen." Mehrere Menschen führen ihre Krebserkrankung auf zwei Handymasten zurück, andere klagen über Schlafstörung und Depression.

"Ich habe mit Umweltlandesrat Rudi Anschober gesprochen. Das Land hat eine Untersuchung zugesagt", so Bürgermeister Johann Mayr. Ersten Aufschluss soll eine Strahlenmessung zwischen den beiden Handymasten bringen. Dazu werde sich die Landes-Sanitätsdirektion mit den Erkrankungen befassen.

Ohne Prüfung der Sachlage sei kein Urteil zu treffen, "aber solche Fälle erleben wir immer wieder. Wenn jüngere Menschen an Krebs erkranken, reagiert das Umfeld verständlicherweise sehr sensibel. Dann wird fieberhaft nach Gründen gesucht. Hier kommen die Handymasten ins Spiel", sagt Stefan Meusburger von der Landes-Sanitätsdirektion. Es sei schwierig, herauszufinden, ob sich in Wernstein mit seinen 1600 Einwohnern Krebsfälle tatsächlich signifikant häufen. "Wir werden mit dem Bürgermeister beraten."

Lange bevor es Handymasten gab, wurden Krebsfälle im Sauwald auf die erhöhte Strahlenbelastung durch den Granitboden zurückgeführt. "Für die betroffenen Familien sind die Krebserkrankungen so oder so tragisch", sagt Bürgermeister Johann Mayr.

"Wir werden keinesfalls leichtfertig an die Sache herangehen. Die Erfahrungen der Vergangenheit zeigen aber, dass übertriebene Erwartungen fehl am Platz sind. Ich fürchte, wir werden zu keinem Ergebnis kommen", so Stefan Meusberger.

Vom 08.06.2005


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Krebscluster
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Wernstein

http://www.bradblog.com/archives/00001448.htm


Informant: NHNE

US-STUDIE

Forschungsskandale und Datenmanipulationen haben wiederholt die Glaubwürdigkeit der Wissenschaft erschüttert. In den USA hat eine groß angelegte Studie jetzt erstmals das Fehlverhalten unter Forschern zahlenmäßig erfasst - mit erschreckenden Ergebnissen...

http://www.spiegel.de/wissenschaft/mensch/0,1518,359630,00.html


Informant: Gerd Zesar

--------

Anmerkung Scherrmann: Das "Mogeln", bzw. genauer "das Fälschen" ist die eine Sache. Noch schlimmer finde ich Folgendes:

Im Allgemeinen werden in der Wissenschaft heute nur noch Fragen gestellt, die direkt oder indirekt mit einer zukünftigen möglichen Verwertbarkeit von Industrie, Medizin etc. zusammenhängen. Es geht i. a. nicht um Erkenntnismaximierung sondern um Gewinnmaximierung. So kommen Querdenken, grundsätzliches Infragestellen der vorherrschenden Fragestellungen und Lehrmeinungen und die Beschäftigung mit neuartigen Fragestellungen immer mehr zum Erliegen.

Aus: SAFER WORLD newsletter/d - 86 - 14.06.2005

--------

http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=betrayal

MONITOR zeigte gestern Abend den Verdacht auf, dass die Firma AGFA bewusst platt gemacht wird. Die Firma hatte Insolvenz angezeigt, obwohl es keine Bankschulden gibt und die Auftragslage hervorragend ist. Etwaige finanzielle Hilfe durch das Land lehnte die Firmenleitung ab. Der Insolvenzverwalter schilderte, dass er so einen Fall in seiner gesamten Laufbahn noch nie hatte, also dass eine gesunde Firma Insolvenz anmeldet.

2000 Mitarbeiter würden billigst "entsorgt" und die "Filetstücke" der Firma können günstig ausgeschlachtet werden. Die Recherche von Monitor führte dazu, dass die Staatsanwaltschaft sich um die augenscheinlich betrügerischen Machenschaften kümmert. Mal schauen, was dabei rauskommt.

Gerd Zesar

http://www.weeklystandard.com/Content/Public/Articles/000/000/005/700oklkt.asp


Informant: Neo Mulder

by John Pilger

The National Union of Journalists and the Blair government are planning a "launch" ceremony, at which they will announce their "partnership". According to John Fray, the NUJ's deputy general secretary, this collaboration will "promote awareness among journalists of the issues that surround the struggle against poverty on a world scale... We want to help the media to tell it like it is." In a glossy letter to NUJ members, Fray says that joining hands with the government is "enhancing the understanding of the need for a positive approach to international development amongst those who report and comment on the issues…” For this "positive approach," the government is paying the journalists' union 80,000 pounds. What a bargain price for the principle of independence from power....

http://www.dissidentvoice.org/June05/Pilger0609.htm

The idea of the new American empire has been powerfully explained by Niall Ferguson, the Glasgow-born historian. Washington, he argues, is the new Rome as it maintains a new global world order, at great expense.

http://news.scotsman.com/opinion.cfm?id=627722005


From Information Clearing House

The number of US army officers getting divorced has soared in the past few years, the Pentagon says, a trend blamed on wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/americas/4075270.stm


From Information Clearing House

The refusal of the U.S. government to conduct a truly independent investigation into the abuses at Guantanamo, Abu Ghraib, and other detention centers is tantamount to a whitewash, if not a cover-up, of these disgraceful crimes.

http://takeaction.amnestyusa.org/action/index.asp?step=2&item=11854


From Information Clearing House

Thousands of people are detained in Iraq without due process in apparent violation of international law, the United Nations said on Wednesday, adding that 6,000 of the country's 10,000 prisoners were in the hands of the U.S. military.

http://www.swissinfo.org/sen/swissinfo.html?siteSect=143&sid=5856022&cKey=1118270115000


From Information Clearing House

U.S. contractors say they were treated like Iraqi's
http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article9088.htm

Suddenly there seems to be something in the air -- the smell of death? Or something in the water -- blood? In any case, this past week, widely scattered newspaper editorialists roused themselves from seeming acceptance of the continuing slaughter in Iraq to voice, for the first time in many cases, outright condemnation of the war.

http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article9089.htm

Video: This is the story of what Mr. Blair did not tell us before sending British troops into battle.

http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article8579.htm

Bush & Blair/Iraq denials raise questions

This is stunning. As Mark Danner wrote in Sunday's New York Review of Books, "Thus the idea of UN inspectors was introduced not as a means to avoid war, as President Bush repeatedly assured Americans, but as a means to make war possible."

http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article9093.htm

Watch this video of an Arabic-speaking former soldier, Aidan Delgado, who faced abuse and attacks after filing for Conscientious Objector status. His compassionate and powerful talk includes detailed Geneva Convention violations and shockingly personal accounts of the inhumanity he witnessed and experienced.

QuickTime Video - Click her to view.
http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article9090.htm

by Ted Rall

Failing an increasingly elusive military victory against the Iraqi resistance, the American public is looking for any excuse to cut and run. Revelations of systemic torture of innocent civilian detainees by American troops at Guantánamo, Abu Ghraib and Bagram provide a perfect reason for immediate withdrawal. There are neither WMDs to find nor hearts and minds to win, so why the hell are we there?

http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article9084.htm

by Abid Ullah Jan

The US and its allies are caught between the much vaunted democracy on the one hand and the exposed hypocrisy of allowing only those to be part of elections and power who suite their interest on the other. The objective is clear to everyone in the Muslim world: the US and its allies want to install new strongmen for serving their interest, but this time under the label of democracy.

http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article9086.htm

by Dr. Charles Mercieca

They are all linked to wars and they all view peace as their outright enemy since peace would eventually render their product obsolete.

http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article9095.htm

Hurry! Copy and save to your hard drive

June 9, 2005

leaks-brief.zip
http://tinyurl.com/98mo5

ZIP file of 6 leaked documents from Downing Street.

Copy and save to your hard drive.

http://www.livejournal.com/users/mparent7777/20516.html?mode=reply
http://www.edwardsdavid.com/media/iraq/reports/leaks-brief.zip


Informant: Charles Shaw

From ufpj-news
UNITED FOR PEACE & JUSTICE | 212-868-5545


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

TAKE BACK AMERICA

Campaign for America's Future | http://www.ourfuture.org

Last week, thousands of patriotic Americans gathered in Washington DC to discuss our progressive movement's vision for a stronger America, and to outline the concrete steps we can take together to build it. The crowd was electric, the speeches were inspirational, and many - like us - left with a renewed sense of the power we have collectively to transform our country.

Most of the major speeches, behind the scenes footage and radio interviews from Take Back America 2005 are now available online. We hope you'll take a look.

http://action.ourfuture.org/ctt.asp?u=1742757&l=95856

At the end of Take Back America 2005, Bill Moyers reminded us that "what matters isn't what is said in Washington, but what you do across the country to carry on this movement for social and economic justice." With that conviction, we reach out now - to solicit your thoughts on how we can best work together to translate our progressive vision for America into reality.

We want to hear from you. What are your priorities? Where do you think progressives can and should be doing more? What kinds of actions will you take to help transform America? Share your thoughts and help shape the direction of our shared Campaign for America's Future.

http://action.ourfuture.org/ctt.asp?u=1742757&l=95857

Our movement is of, by and for the people and it's your ideas and energy that will carry us forward. We look forward to your thoughts and to continuing our work together to take our country back.

http://action.ourfuture.org/ctt.asp?u=1742757&l=95857

Thank you once again for all that you do.


Sincerely,

Roger Hickey & Robert Borosage, Co-Directors
Campaign for America's Future

Nichttödliche Waffen wie Elektroschockpistolen senken die Schwelle zur Gewaltanwendung, wie ein Fall in Florida zeigt, über den es ein Video gibt.

http://www.telepolis.de/tp/r4/artikel/20/20260/1.html

Über die mangelnde Ehrlichkeit der Forscher
http://www.telepolis.de/tp/r4/artikel/20/20276/1.html


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=betrayal

US-Präsident Bush lässt Tony Blair, der neben der Hilfe für Afrika mit dem Klimaschutz punkten wollte, im Vorfeld des G8-Gipfels abblitzen.

http://www.telepolis.de/tp/r4/artikel/20/20279/1.html

We Must Act to Prevent Another One
http://www.commondreams.org/news2005/0609-21.htm

Sierra Club Denounces Senate Confirmation of Justice Brown; Urges Defeat of Pryor http://www.commondreams.org/news2005/0609-20.htm

09.06.05

Jedes Jahr verenden mehr als 300.000 Delfine, Tümmler und Wale ungewollt in Fischernetzen - weit mehr Tiere als den Harpunen der Walfänger zum Opfer fallen. Nach Einschätzung des WWF ist der so genannte Beifang inzwischen die größte Bedrohung für die Meeressäuger. Viele Kleinwalarten sind dadurch vom Aussterben bedroht, zu diesem Ergebnis kommt eine jetzt vorgelegte WWF Studie. Besonders betroffen sind der Kalifornische Hafenschweinswal, der Schweinswal in der Ostsee und die asiatischen Flussdelfine im Mekong, Ganges oder Yangtse Fluss.

Die ganze Nachricht im Internet:
http://www.ngo-online.de/ganze_nachricht.php?Nr=11221

09.06.05

Die heutige Entschließung des EU-Parlaments über UN-Reformen (Entschließungsantrag Laschet, B6‑0328/2005) befürwortet besorgniserregende Fehlentwicklungen auf der Ebene der Vereinten Nationen, stellt das Mitglied des EU-Parlaments, Tobias Pflüger, fest. So fordere die Resolution z.B., dass die Möglichkeit zu so genannten militärischen "humanitären Interventionen" in das Völkerrecht eingeführt wird. Am gravierendsten sei jedoch, dass in der Resolution die Tür für die Mandatierung von Präventivkriegen durch den UN-Sicherheitsrat geöffnet wird.

Die ganze Nachricht im Internet:
http://www.ngo-online.de/ganze_nachricht.php?Nr=11217

RESIDENTS have reacted angrily to plans for a mobile phone mast in the heart of their Chester community.

Phone company Vodafone wants to install a 12-metre mast and equipment box at the junction of Victoria Road with Victoria Crescent, which is next to Chester Business School.

But people living in and around the area say they are concerned about the health implications of the base station, as it is officially called, and also the impact it would have on the area, which is under a conservation order.

Vodafone staff are in a pre-consultation period with residents about the plans, but it looks certain the phone company will be receiving only objections.

John Hughes, 70, who has lived in Victoria Court for five years, said: “I am very worried about the health effects of these masts. No-one has proved they are safe, and after reading reports that children who live near pylons are more likely to get leukaemia, you do start to wonder.

“Because we have a college here, there are a lot of young people walking about. And they would have to pass that pole every day. I am very worried for their health. I cannot think of a more unsuitable place for it.”

L. G. Bennion, 71, of Victoria Crescent , said: “I have already written to Vodafone about my displeasure. If it was built I would be able to see it from my garden. It is not going to be very nice to look at.

“This is a conservation area. I find it extremely difficult to get planning permission for things I want to do on the house, so it would be very upsetting if Vodafone could put a mast up here without any trouble.”

College Ward Labour Cllr Sandra Rudd, deputy chairman of the city council’s planning board, echoed the residents’ comments. “I personally feel it’s too close to homes and would be inappropriate in a conservation area,” she said.

“I’ve asked that Vodafone look at other sites or link up with the Microconnect system which is used successfully in the city centre by BT and is designed to be shared by mobile phone operators."

But Jane Frapwell, electromagnetic field adviser for Vodafone, said: “The Microconnect system is a complimentary device. It does not replace the need for base stations. We always try to be sympathetic to the areas we plan to put our stations in. If it is an area of outstanding beauty, we try to make sure the visual impact is lessened. But people need base stations to use their mobile phones.”

by Lyndsay Young, Formby Times

Jun 9 2005

A LEADING campaigner is lobbying the European Parliament for new research into phone masts.

Formby protester Eileen O'Connor discussed independent research funding with European director generals in Brussels.

Professor Olle Johansson from Sweden and Dr Gerd Oberfeld from Salzburg, who would head the research, believe they can prove masts are dangerous.

As Salzburg 's government director, Dr Oberfeld secured the lowest radiation levels in the world.

His controlled experiment found people were effected when situated 18 metres from masts. He now aims to discover long-term effects such as cancer.

Eileen O'Connor founded anti-mast pressure group Radiation Research Trust after recovering form cancer three years ago.

She said: "He proved without a doubt that it caused severe disruptions to the brainwaves and they all got symptoms such as headaches, nausea and sickness."

Dr Johansson has spent 30 years studying "non ionising radiation", succeeding in reducing high level radiation transmitted from early computer screens.

Eileen is now in talks with John F. Ryan, Luxembourg 's director general for health and consumer protection, about possible funding.

by Sharon McHendry

FERNHILL residents are outraged at a proposal to site a mobile phone mast near to Cathkin Primary and Fernhill private school.

One concerned resident, who does not want to be identified, said that the plan had angered many in the community, especially as the mast would be so close to schools.

At this stage South Lanarkshire Council has received a pre-planning application from the T-Mobile group which only intimates an interest in the site.

However, if T-Mobile choose to take their plans further and they are approved then the mast would go up on Burnside Road not far from Cathkin Primary School, Fernhill School, and a new housing development.

Norman Boyd, chair of Rutherglen Community Council, said that they were firmly opposed to plans for more masts.

He said: “The community council’s view is that far too many of these masts are going up. We are doubtful about the radiation factors but we cannot object on these grounds.

“There’s a rule in it somewhere that we can’t object on health and radiation grounds. The only objection that we could have is that it’s near a school or old folks’ home.

“We are not scared that one mast does damage but of the number of masts that are going up around Rutherglen.”

A spokesperson for South Lanarkshire Council confirmed that they had received paperwork from T-Mobile.

The spokesperson said: “A pre-application notification from agents acting on behalf of T-Mobile has been received for a mast on Burnside Road. This is common practice and alerts local authorities to areas where telecommunications companies are considering applying for planning permission.

“Should the company decide to proceed we would expect to receive a full planning application in due course.”

by Kenny Smith

Lanarkshire

CAMBUSLANG residents are opposing a plan to erect a new mobile phone mast - which will be hidden inside a bowling club’s flagpole.

Houses in Grenville and Stewarton Drives, beside Kirkhill Bowling Club, have been leafleted over the past few days informing them of T Mobile’s plans for the area.

Already, a petition against the mast has been handed to the bowling club, with about 100 signatures gathered in a very short time.

Protestors have also written to Members of the Scottish Parliament, as well as local MP Tommy McAvoy, and intend to e-mail councillors on South Lanarkshire Council’s planning committee before they meet to decide on the issue next month.

A concerned Stewarton Drive resident said: “Because of an application to build a 3G mobile phone mast within 50 metres of my home, I sought support from my neighbours to oppose the installation.

“These neighbours also live dangerously close to the mast. I was amazed at the universal fear and concern expressed on the health risks.

“I gained almost 100 signatures in a very short time.

“The latest National Radiological Protection Board report acknowledges that more research is required and that there is growing evidence of biological effects from the rays emitted by these masts.

“The new 3G masts have been linked to negative effects on brain function. The report acknowledges that a minority of the general population may be ‘hypersensitive’ to the energy beams from the masts.”

The protestor pointed to quotes from Michael Clarke, radiation expert at the Health Protection Agency (NRPB).

Mr Clarke said: "We feel we should discourage prolonged use of mobile phones. Our view is that it is sensible to take a precautionary approach to mobile use, especially in the very young.”

The Stewarton Drive resident continued: “The Government recommends children less than eight should use mobile phones only for emergencies.

“The mast, which is at a similar height to the bedrooms of the surrounding houses, will expose the occupants to beams 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“I estimate that 50 per cent of those living within 100 metres of the mast have children of pre-school or primary school age - the age group that NRPB state are most at risk.

“T Mobile cannot tell me what other sites they have assessed before selecting this site in the middle of a residential area.

“There are alternative sites more remote from houses where the mast could be placed but they probably incur extra expense for T Mobile.”

To examine peoples’ concerns about mobile phone masts, the Government set up the Stewart Committee which reported in 2000.

The protestor continued: “This proposed mast does not have to be built, the risks, however small, do not have to be introduced to this residential area.

“As the Stewart Committee suggested, a precautionary approach should be adopted. We would suggest that prudent avoidance would be a better approach in our residential area.

“The health and well being of those who play at Kirkhill Bowling Club will also be put at risk, as they also will be subjected to the energy beams from the proposed mast.

“High-spirited youths have been known to trespass on the bowling green and it is believed that they flew underwear on the flagpole.

“A proper fence will be required round the flagpole to prevent youths shinning up the flagpole and getting fried.

“The field behind Grenville Drive or the pathway across the field at the top of West Coats Road seem more appropriate locations.“

Anyone looking for more information on the protests should e-mail mash_the_mast@yahoo.co.uk.

Jun 9 2005

ANGRY parents fighting to stop a phone mast being erected next to a primary school are calling on all residents to write to North Ayrshire Council and object to the plans.

The campaigning residents have formed a group, SAYNO2O2 and want to stop the 15 metre high 3G mast being put on ground along from Lawthorn Primary School.

They have already written to every parent of children at the school asking for support and now want Irvine Herald readers to sign up and write to the council’s planning team.

They have mounted a letter on a website for residents to print off: http://hometown.aol.co.uk/sayno2o2.

from Lachlan Mudge
http://www.emfacts.com/weblog/index.php?p=95

http://www.truthout.org/docs_2005/060905Z.shtml


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

Two weeks before Jeb Bush announced his candidacy for governor, the Bush administration offered to pay a Florida developer three times the value of his Everglades swampland.

http://www.tompaine.com/uncommonsense/index.php#5159

by Robert Dreyfuss, TomPaine.com

The choice of Iraq's new ambassador shows just how detached from reality the White House -- and the Democrats -- are.

http://www.tompaine.com/articles/20050609/our_newest_proconsul.php

Tamworth Herald

LINDSEY SMITH

10:30 - 09 June 2005

Legal experts have been called in to investigate whether the mobile phone mast at St Edward's RC Primary School in Coleshill can be pulled down in light of concerns over safety.

Warwickshire LEA bosses have ordered the authority's solicitor to begin an urgent investigation into the deeds of the land on which the mast stands, which was sold to British Telecom by the council 11 years ago.

News of the action was announced on the day mast protestors delivered an informal health survey to the school which appears to show that 98 per cent of pupils are suffering from health problems including headaches, nausea, itchy eyes, tiredness or nosebleeds.

County education officer Eric Wood said: "We are concerned at the issues being raised, in particular legal aspects to do with the use of the land on which the mobile phone mast is situated.

"We are asking the county solicitor to investigate as a matter of urgency because the legal and health and safety concerns of the parents must be treated seriously and dealt with as promptly as possible."

The survey, carried out with parents of 200 children at the school, was not sanctioned by Warwickshire County Council, although it is believed no objections were raised to it being circulated to parents.

But the findings have been seen by headteacher, Gillian Owen, who issued a statement to the Herald saying she shares the concern of the parents and supports them in their campaign to have the mast removed.

"They are leading this effort allowing me to concentrate on the busy day-to-day task of running a successful school. "I look forward to hearing of the developments but am not taking an active part in the group that is looking at this serious issue," she said.

The survey was prepared by mast protestors Jackie Slater and Geraldine Canavan with advice from physicist Dr John Walker - who worked with action group SCRAM in their successful fight against the Wishaw mast.

Scientist Anne Silk, who learned of the survey results in a meeting on May 27, is now presenting the findings to a meeting of the World Health Organisation in Geneva on June 15, to call for a national effort to study the health of every child whose school is close to a phone mast.

Shoreham Today

RESIDENTS are ready to go into battle to stop a mobile phone mast being put up outside their homes in north Shoreham.

T-Mobile wants to build an 11.7-metre 3G mast and transmitter on a small plot of land on the east side of Downsway, at the junction of Upper Shoreham Road .

Rod Hotton, of Downsway, who is leading the anti-mast campaign, said: "This is a case of profit before people.

"The proposed mast would be too close to properties and to one of the main routes for children attending local schools, Buckingham Middle and Shoreham First.

"Children and the elderly are believed to be especially vulnerable to the effects of such transmissions.

"From my house opposite, it will be taller than a lamppost and totally obtrusive."

Mr Hotton has already put up posters and notices, objecting to the mast, in Downsway since he found out about the plans on Friday.

He received a notice through his door from Adur District Council about the application and has since been galvanising his neighbours and residents into action.

Mr Hotton said: "According to current regulations, these mobile phones companies don't need planning permission to put up masts which are under 15 metres.

"But this is not a suitable site. There are other areas in north Shoreham where it could go.

"We are urging everyone in the area to object to Adur council, but we have only three weeks to do it, so the clock is running."

A public meeting was being held at Mr Hotton's home last night to put together a campaign to fight the plans.

An Adur council spokeswoman said the application was due to go before Adur's planning committee on July 4.

09 June 2005

This is Bristol

BY KIRSTY PUGH K. PUGH

11:00 - 09 June 2005

Bristol Zoo has unveiled plans to allow a mobile phone mast to be installed in its grounds. Bradley Stoke-based mobile firm Orange wants to put the transmitter on top of a building near the zoo's reptile house, near the Northcote Road entrance.

The zoo says it will consider comments from neighbours before making a final decision.

But some visitors the Evening Post spoke to about the plans questioned the zoo's suitability as a site for a mast. Despite assurance from the industry that the masts are safe, doubts remain over their potential health effects.

Preliminary drawings posted outside the zoo show that the transmitter would be located on top of a building not used to house animals, behind cladding to minimise the visual impact the tall structure may have. Zoo spokeswoman Heather Holve, said: "We can confirm that we have been contacted by Orange about putting a mobile phone transmitter within our walls.

"We have sent out letters to all the local residents and have posted copies of the plans outside the zoo.

"Things are still at a very early stage at the moment, and depending on the views and opinions of local people the zoo will consider renting space to Orange ."

Orange spokesman, Richard Bryman, said: "In an arrangement with the zoo, a full planning application will be submitted to Bristol city council's planning department in the near future.

"The transmitter site has been proposed because Orange has identified a weakness in the local network coverage.

"The proposed site will increase coverage within the zoo and the surrounding areas. All calls made on mobile phones are routed through transmitters, which are designed to be very low powered and have a very short range.

"If they are too far away from where people live and work then they are of little use."

When the Post spoke to visitors at the zoo, Sarah Ubhi, a 34-year-old mother of two from St Andrews, said: "I would protest about it if it came down to it, as I don't think it is suitable, especially when there are children around.

"There are also the animals to consider - we don't know how it would harm them having to live there the whole time."

Catherine Wilson, aged 28, from Bishopston, said she might reconsider her zoo membership if the plans go ahead.

She said: "The zoo is a lovely place to visit, and this would not be good for the environment.

"If there is any potential risk then it should be avoided especially as there are children and young families involved.

"When the decision is made I will have to think about whether to renew my membership."

--------

Before I posted this story, I wrote a letter to the local paper in Bristol urging all animal lovers to protest and fight the planning application. I just hope they print it. I have also emailed the zoo.

Sandi

In a message dated 09/06/2005 17:52:15 GMT Standard Time, Mastsanity.org writes:

Can I encourage each and everyone of us to send a quick email to Bristol Zoo advising them of the dangers of allowing Orange to erect a mobile phone mast within the Zoo's grounds.

I have sent one this evening and reference adverse effects in animals as shown by Prof Semm and Dr Alfonso Balmori Martinez.

Their email address is groups@bristolzoo.org.uk and information@bristolzoo.org.uk .


Stephen

--------

Stephen

Thanks for providing the email addresses for Bristol Zoo, I have sent the following message to them.

Best wishes
Jane


Dear Bristol Zoo

I was shocked to read that you are considering allowing a phone mast on your premises. Please do not allow any phone masts in or near your zoo - for the sake of the animals and the visitors health and safety.

The reports below are just a tiny sample of the mounting evidence of adverse health problems related to mast and phone emissions. It is so important to provide sanctuaries that are free from radiation emissions in this increasingly polluted world.

Please do not alienate those of us who are electrosensitive and those who wear hearing aids and other sensitive medical aids which are known to be affected by masts.

Animals may be even more sensitive than humans to pulsing microwave radiation emissions, please do not risk their health.

Jane Lee



Scientists serious about 'electricity sickness' claims

Reports by Nic Fleming, Health Correspondent

(Filed: 24/01/2005)

Scientists and health advisers are taking the claims of people who say electricity makes them ill seriously for the first time.

The National Radiological Protection Board (NRPB) is carrying out a review of existing scientific studies into "electromagnetic hypersensitivity" (EHS).

Brian Stein suffers from electromagnetic hypersensitivity

Click here for his story:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml;sessionid=E0CMT53CZW1TXQFIQMFSM5OAVCBQ0JVC?xml=/news/2005/01/24/nelec124.xml

Two studies into the condition, funded with £750,000 from the Department of Health and the telecommunications industry, are already under way.

Sir William Stewart, the government's adviser on radiation, has called for more research into the issue.

Some researchers believe a proportion of the population suffers ill health, with symptoms including fatigue, severe headaches and skin problems, because of exposure to electromagnetic fields.
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/connected/main.jhtml;sessionid=E0CMT53CZW1TXQFIQMFSM5OAVCBQ0JVC?xml=/connected/2004/04/07/ecnrad31.xml
Other scientists say there is no evidence.

The Swedish government, which recognised EHS as a physical impairment in 2000, calculates that 3.1 per cent of its population – 200,000 people – suffer from the condition. A recent warning by Sir William, head of the NRPB and the Health Protection Agency, that parents should limit their children's use of mobile phones received widespread publicity.

However, his suggestion that another section of the population, as well as the young, could have extra sensitivity to exposure to either radio frequency fields from mobiles or electromagnetic fields in general did not.

The NRPB has commissioned Dr Neil Irvine, of the Health Protection Agency, to carry out a review of existing scientific literature on EHS.

His report, focusing on symptoms, prognosis and treatment, will be published in the summer.

The Mobile Telecommunications and Health Research programme, funded by the Government and the telecommunications industry, is spending £8.6 million on 29 studies, two of which will investigate EHS.

A team at King's College, London, is looking at whether mobile phones cause symptoms such as headaches, nausea and fatigue in those who claim to be hypersensitive and those who do not.

Researchers at the University of Essex are exposing two groups of volunteers to signals from a mobile mast to test if cognitive functions such as attention span and memory are affected. http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml;sessionid=E0CMT53CZW1TXQFIQMFSM5OAVCBQ0JVC?xml=/news/2004/12/13/nmast13.xml
Half will be people who say they suffer EHS.

Dr David Dowson, a former GP who is now a complementary medicine specialist based in Bath, said he had seen around 10 patients he believed to be suffering from EHS. "I think the condition is increasing in prevalence, because we are living in a more electrically polluted environment."

Olle Johansson, associate professor of neuroscience at the Karolinska Institute in Sweden, has been studying EHS for 20 years.

He has shown in experiments that there is an increase in the number of mast cells near the surface of skin when exposed to electromagnetic fields, a similar reaction to that when it is exposed to radioactive material.

He said: "If you put a radio near a source of EMFs you will get interference. The human brain has an electric field so if you put sources of EMFs nearby, it is not surprising that you get interference, interaction with systems and damage to cells and molecules.''

Others say the condition is in the mind.

13 December 2004: Volunteers tested on phone mast 'dangers'
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml;sessionid=E0CMT53CZW1TXQFIQMFSM5OAVCBQ0JVC?xml=/news/2004/12/13/nmast13.xml

7 April 2004[Connected]: Radiation rules made stricter 'as precaution'
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/connected/main.jhtml;sessionid=E0CMT53CZW1TXQFIQMFSM5OAVCBQ0JVC?xml=/connected/2004/04/07/ecnrad31.xml

© Copyright of Telegraph Group Limited 2005

Source: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml;sessionid=E0CMT53CZW1TXQFIQMFSM5OAVCBQ0JVC?xml=/news/2005/01/24/nelec24.xml


Informant: Sarah Benson

Starmail
http://www.buergerwelle.de/

Researches Find Mobile Phones Can 'Excite' Antigens
http://omega.twoday.net/stories/482104/

From Judy Tidwell

If you have noticed an increase in skin rashes or allergic reactions to dust mites and pollen, your cell phone may be to blame. In what researchers called surprising results, a study indicates radiation emitted by mobile phones may increase allergic reactions.

Dr. Hajime Kimata from Unitika Hospital, Kyoto, Japan believes microwaves emitted by mobile handsets can 'excite' antigens - substances which cause allergic reactions - in the bloodstreams of people who already suffer from allergies.

Dr. Kimata tested 52 people who had a history of allergies. They all watched a one-hour video -- half of them while talking on their mobile phones and the other half with their phones turned off.

"When we did blood tests we found that the mobile phones had raised the levels of certain chemicals in the blood which provoke allergic reactions such as eczema, hay fever and asthma," Kimata said. "We were surprised but we carried out a properly controlled study. One group of patients had their phones turned on and receiving for an hour while they watched a video. The second group watched the same video while having their phones turned off so they couldn't receive calls. There was a significant increase in allergy levels which seemed to be linked to the use of mobile phones."

Further testing indicated that the group using mobile phones also had greater skin reactions when exposed to house dust mites or pollen from cedar trees.

Previous testing of mobile phones has resulted in contradictory claims concerning their affect on the health of their users. In a British study two years ago, researchers could find no evidence that mobile phones cause any risks to health, but recommended caution in using handsets, especially for children.

Earlier this year, researchers in Sweden claimed that mobile phones could damage key brain cells and trigger the early onset of Alzheimer's disease. Radiation from mobile phone handsets appeared to damage areas of the brain associated with learning, memory and movement in laboratory rats.

http://allergies.about.com/cs/skin/a/aa030203a.htm


Informant: Robert Riedlinger

Starmail
http://www.buergerwelle.de/

--------

A response from Bristol Zoo

Dear Mr Kearney

Thank you for your email with attached papers. I will forward these to the relevant Zoo staff involved in this proposal.

Just to clarify. We have been approached by agents for Orange to provide space for a mobile phone transmitter site. The agents are currently conducting a pre-planning consultation period and have alerted the Zoo’s neighbours to this proposal. During this period any comments or enquiries about this proposal should be directed to:

Sue Hammett
Council and Community Liaison Officer (Orange)
4520 Aquarius
Solihull Parkway
Birmingham Business Park
Solihull
B37 7YN
Sue.hammett@orange.co.uk



Regards

Heather Holve
PR and Marketing Manager
Bristol Zoo Gardens
Dir. 0117 974 7308
hholve@bristolzoo.org.uk
http://www.bristolzoo.org.uk

Bristol Zoo Gardens maintains and defends biodiversity through breeding endangered species, conserving threatened species and habitats and promoting a wider understanding of the natural world.





-----Original Message-----
From: Receptionist
Sent: 10 June 2005 10:37
To: Jo Gipps
Cc: Heather Holve
Subject: FW: FAO Director General and Heather Hoave
Importance: High

-----Original Message-----
From: stephen
Sent: 09 June 2005 18:20
To: information@bristolzoo.org.uk; Groups
Subject: FAO Director General and Heather Hoave
Importance: High


Dear Sir/Madam

I write to express my overwhelming concern in relation to an article appearing within the Evening Post concerning proposals to erect a mobile phone mast within the grounds of Bristol Zoo. Can I strongly suggest that in order to ensure that as an organisation concerned with the health and well being of animals and in particular those animals within your care that you only agree to such a course of action once you are in full possession of all relevant facts.

I suggest that the provision of factual and unbiased information by mobile phone operators such as Orange is unlikely and remind you of the multi million pound annual turnover of these companies who rely on persuading land owners such as you to accept their base stations with typical tie in contracts for ten years.

Using the analogy that once ink has been put to paper the buck rests with you, can I ask if you are aware of the research papers written by acclaimed scientists that SHOW DIRECT ADVERSE EFFECTS IN ANIMALS FROM PULSED MICROWAVE RADIATION AS EMITTED BY MOBILE PHONE BASE STATIONS.

Early studies of adverse effects in animals include Löscher & Käs (1998), which recorded recorded reduced milk yields, emaciation, spontaneous abortions, abnormal behaviour patterns, conjunctivitis, heart failure and stillbirths in cattle when kept close to a base station. When cattle were moved away from the base station their condition and milk yields improved. The severe symptoms reappeared when the cattle were moved back to their original field beside the base station. The symptoms only appeared when microwave transmitters were added to an existing television transmitter. Löscher and Käs also report the profound affects experienced by the farmer and his family since the microwave transmitters were installed. Löscher postulates that the effects are connected to changes in melatonin levels. Abelin (1999) looked at adult sheep disturbance with RF exposure at Schwarzenburg, Switzerland. Alpeter et al (1995) tested bovine salitary melatonin at the same location. Turning the transmitter off revealed significant rises in bovine melatonin and human sleep quality. The biological effect of proximity to a base station is reinforced by a study of fecindicity in mice near an ‘antenna park’ Magras and Xenos (1997) which states ‘RF power densities between 168 nW/cm2 were measured. Twelve pairs of mice divided in two groups, were placed in locations of different power densities and were repeatedly mated five times. One hundred eighteen newborns were collected. They were measured, weighed and examined macro and microscopically. A progressive decrease in the number of newborns per dam was observed which ended in irreversible infertility’.

Whilst aware that in 2002 English Nature commissioned a review of this subject, additional research papers have been written after this date and include studies by Professor Semm in August 2002, who was previously employed by Deutsche Telecom and Dr Alfonso Balmori Martinez whose papers include ‘The effects of Microwaves on the trees and other plants’, recently published in the peer reviewed journal ‘Ecosistemas’ (Spain) and ‘The effects of microwave radiation on the wildlife’ which includes for research carried out in the United Kingdom., published in March 2004, December 2003 and February 2003. English Nature accepting the limitations of the original study have in December 2004 asked the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology to examine the additional reports of adverse effects.

I can also advise that DEFRA in their letter to me dated 10/09/04 agree 'there are some areas of uncertainty that might warrant some further consideration and discussion with the industry' and p rovide the following transcript taken from a letter to me dated 14/07/04 from the Director General of the RSPCA Jackie Bollard

‘I am copying this letter to the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (the government department that responded to the Stewart Report) as an official register of our concern on the matter . This issue is not one with which the RSPCA has had much previous dealings but the Society would certainly be concerned by any evidence showing that animals might be suffering as a result of these masts (for example through impaired neurological functioning, increased abnormal behaviour, adverse effects on reproductive ability and success or reduced quality or length of life). I do acknowledge your concern and also importantly note that the Stewart Report made very little mention of any potential impact of these masts on the health or welfare of farm or wild animals living nearby, choosing to focus nearly exclusively on the perceived or potential consequences on human safety. As the use of mobile phones and the associated erection of telecommunications masts on such a large scale has only been a relatively recent phenomenon, it is true that any long-term effects on people or animals may be difficult to assess or estimate. For this reason and because much of the research undertaken seems to lead to inconclusive findings, an impact on animal health and well being may no be beyond the realms of possibility. As such, this is a matter of concern and I would agree that the issue requires further examination'.

I have also taken the liberty of attaching some of these and suggest these warrant your EARLY READING. I can also upon request put you in direct contact with the Authors of these papers.

I would be grateful if you could acknowledge receipt of this email to prevent me troubling you further.


Yours sincerely

Stephen Kearney

--------

Re the animals, why does this appear to be a matter for Orange at all? Are they going to consult with the hippos? Surely it is simply a matter for the zoo. Neighbours are a separate matter, but I would have thought the zoo would have more concern for its own residents.

Andy

--------

Further info on the Bristol Zoo mast proposal. Sandi's objection letter was published in the Bristol Evening Post yesterday (mine was published on Monday). I also had an objection letter published in the Western Daily Press yesterday. For some reason these letters have not appeared in the mast "News Now" stories.

John Elliott

--------

Probably because they are letters or the system picks it up as an animal story! It just goes to show that no technology can replace human workers effectively!

Sandi

-------

FYI I sent this off on 11th June. I have just received a reply. Don't know how to get it on to this email, so will have to do another one now. It's another good result! Best Jen


Dear Ms Holve,

I write with regard to the proposed Orange mast at Bristol Zoo.

It would appear from emails on the Mast Sanity list that the Zoo is a most worthy and dedicated organisation with ethical and humane priorities concerning the animals in its care. I quote, "Bristol Zoo Gardens maintains and defends biodiversity through breeding endangered species, conserving threatened species and habitats and promoting a wider understanding of the natural world."

There is now a huge raft of scientific evidence worldwide, proving long term harm to humans and animals from electro-magnetic radiation (mobile phone masts) at levels far below the so-called ICNIRP 'safety' guidelines. These guidelines were not arrived at by doctors, epidemiologists or scientists, but by technicians who were calculating the immediate heating (thermal) effects of the radiation. By their own admission, the guidelines cannot claim to protect against long term exposure, which is now known to have serious biological risks, including damage to DNA that can be passed on through future generations. As a Zoo wishing to protect and breed endangered species, the proximity of a mast could have untold repurcussions.

The Operator (Orange) will not disclose this information. Indeed, no Telecom Operators are willing to admit the dangers, and go out of their way to mislead and misinform people with whom they wish to do business ie prospective landlords. Their line is always - "We operate well below the safety guidelines, so there is no need for concern."

You should also be aware that permitting one Operator will almost definitely force you into accepting more, because of the Government Planning Policy of mast and site sharing. Whatever they tell you, once you have signed the contract you will effectively have no say or control over the development either in upgrading or on the number of dishes, side lobes etc.

If the health, safety and well-being of the animals in your care is important to you, I beg you to turn down whatever tempting financial offer Orange may have made to you. Some things are beyond price - and the integrity and success of the vital work you do, should not be jeopardised by profit. Doubtless they will remind you of what useful things can be done with the money their mast will provide. It will be of little use, however, if your precious animals no longer thrive or survive. And please remember, the Operators are not serving your interests, they are serving their own. Against them, you will be powerless. If your animals, or your employees become ill, you will not be able to ask them to leave. A number of landlords have fallen into the trap of thinking that they can renegotiate their contract midway. In practice this is virtually impossible.

It is just as important to consider that your employees may be equally at risk, though human illness such as cancer and leukaemia may take longer to surface. As the controversy rages on this subject and the media coverage increases, there may at some point even be an impact on visitor numbers. For instance, as a parent, I would not allow my child to come into close proximity to a mast. This is why so many schools are now fighting against them, and why so many parents are now withdrawing their children from schools that have them on site.

Please, for all our sakes, because these animals are entrusted into your care, refuse Orange and other Operators who may approach you - and if you really want to help - make the reasons for your refusal known to the Press. You will have the gratitude, support and respect of us all.

Yours very sincerely,

Jennifer Godschall Johnson

Exeter Express and Echo

BY BEN NORMAN

12:00 - 09 June 2005

Mobile phone mast emission metering equipment is to be struck off Exeter City Council's shopping list. The council's executive decided two years ago to set aside £25,000 to spend on hi-tech mast monitoring gear.

The decision to buy the equipment was made amid widespread public unease at the health impact of masts.

Public concern about the issue has been highlighted by the Echo's Shockwaves campaign, which is calling on the Government to fund more research into mast emissions.

But now the council's environmental health officials say they do not believe there is any real benefit to be gained from monitoring masts.

A report to the council's community scrutiny committee said the equipment would be used to monitor emissions that are established to be well within the safety limits.

At the meeting, Jayne Donovan, the council's head of environmental health services, said: "It is clear that if the council measured mast emissions the results would be very similar to levels monitored nationally.

"The emissions we would get would be likely to be below international guidelines.

"In my opinion, there would be very limited uses of the information and the results would not be able to provide any meaningful health protection tool.

"However, we will continue to keep abreast of research and other developments in the field."

The committee voted to recommend that the council's executive should support the move not to buy the monitoring equipment.

Conservative city councillor Norman Shiel, the deputy chairman of the committee, said: "I support this recommendation. It would be gesture politics to spend taxpayers' money on this monitoring equipment."

An alle
Kreisverbände und unterstützenden Initiativen und Organisationen

Anzeigenmuster für Volksbegehren


Sehr geehrte Damen und Herren,

wir haben im Aktionsleitfaden angekündigt, Ihnen Anzeigenmuster für das Volksbegehren zu schicken. Die Anzeigen "Nur noch bis 18. Juli" sollten während der Eintragungszeit in den örtlichen Tages- und Wochenzeitungen geschaltet werden. Sie können jedoch leider nicht vom Volksbegehren-Landesbüro bezahlt werden. Dafür reichen unsere Mittel nicht. Sie müßten also vor Ort Spenden sammeln, wenn Sie die Anzeigen schalten wollen. Die Schaltung wäre sehr sinnvoll, da viele Leute zwar registrieren, dass ein Volksbegehren läuft, dann aber doch überrascht sind, dass der letzte Tag schon vorbei ist. Deshalb versuchen wir mit den Anzeigen auf das bevorstehende Ende der Eintragungsfrist hinzuweisen. Im Anhang finden Sie:

1. die Textteil-Kleinanzeigen
http://www.buergerwelle.de/pdf/anz_textteil_v3.pdf

Sie sollte auf der ersten Seite des Lokalteils im redaktionellen Teil geschaltet werden. Diese Plazierung ist zwar teurer als im Anzeigenteil, hat aber einen hohen Aufmerksamkeitswert. Bitte bestehen Sie bei der Schaltung ggf. darauf, dass die Anzeige auf der ersten Lokalseite oder an einer anderer Stelle, die Sie für richtig halten, gedruckt wird. Natürlich kann die Kleinanzeige aber auch kostengünstiger im Anzeigenteil geschaltet werden.

2. die Großanzeigen
http://www.buergerwelle.de/pdf/anz_gross_mobilfunk_v3.pdf

Wir haben zwei Varianten der Großanzeigen: die kleinere ist für den Anzeigenteil bestimmt. Sie können in diese 6 Fotos örtlicher Volksbegehren-Unterstützer (am besten parteiübergreifend) mit Namensangabe einsetzen. Bei der größeren Variante können Sie zwölf Fotos einsetzen. Diese größere Variante erfüllt zugleich in vermutlich allen Tageszeitungen die Mindestgrößenvorgabe für "Eckfeldanzeigen". Eckfeldanzeigen sind in der Regel rechts unten (daher Eckfeld) im redaktionellen Teil. Bei der vorgegebenen Mindestgröße wird der Tarif dann deutlich günstiger als bei einer kleinen Textteilanzeige (s.o.) mitten im Text. Bitte lassen Sie sich wegen der Details vom Anzeigenverkäufer Ihrer Zeitung beraten.

Wenn Sie Fotos in die Großanzeigen setzen wollen, können Sie dies entweder von der örtlichen Zeitung machen lassen oder aber von unserer Agentur: Hans Amann, Tel. 0941/7816299. Kosten 6 Fotos: 10,- Euro; 12 Fotos: 20,- Euro; aber nur, wenn Sie die Fotos vollständig und als Datei abliefern. Für darüber hinausgehende Arbeiten (z.B. scans) entstehen Mehrkosten. Es bietet sich an, dass die Personen, die auf der Anzeige veröffentlicht werden, durch Spenden zur Finanzierung beitragen. Bitte lassen Sie sich vor dem Anzeigendruck auf jeden Fall einen Korrekturabzug schicken und erklären Sie von Anfang an, dass Sie einen wünschen!

3. Die Immobilien-Wertminderungsanzeige:
http://www.buergerwelle.de/pdf/anzeigen_immobilien.pdf

Am 11.5. war im Immobilenteil der SZ ein interessanter Bericht, in dem sich der Haus-, Wohnungs- und Grundbesitzerverband positiv über das Volksbegehren äußert. Dem Bericht zufolge stellen Immobilienexperten verstärkt Wertminderungen bei Immobilien fest, wenn ein Sendemast in der Nachbarschaft steht. Diese bislang von uns noch kaum bearbeitete Argumentationsschiene sollten wir verstärkt kommunizieren. Unter http://www.immobilien-wertminderung.de kommt man auf eine Unterseite unserer Volksbegehren-homepage, auf der auch der SZ-Artikel abrufbar ist. Diese neue Internetadresse wird mit der Kleinanzeige im Anhang beworben. Wenn Sie sie schalten wollen, empfehle ich im Anzeigenteil vorzugsweise den Immobilienteil, die Familienseite und die Seite mit ärztlichen Nachrichten.

Die Immobilienanzeige könnte ab jetzt geschaltet werden. Die Schaltung der anderen "Nur noch bis 18. Juli"-Anzeigen dagegen erst ab Start der Eintragungszeit.


Mit freundlichen Grüßen

Urban Mangold


PS: Noch ein wichtiger Hinweis - Wir haben Ihnen mit dem Aktionsleitfaden auch die "Stelzengeher-Tour" angekündigt: Stelzengeher überwinden eine symbolische 10-Prozent-Hürde in den Fußgängerzonen für ein Pressefoto. Leider müssen wir diese Ankündigung zurücknehmen. Die Honorare für die Stelzengeher können wir uns nicht mehr leisten. Die außergewöhnliche Menge an Bestellungen hat unseren Etat schon gesprengt. Wir müssen bei den Stelzengehern die Bremse ziehen. Wenn Sie aber vor Ort Leute kennen, die diese Aktion ehrenamtlich umsetzen, wäre das natürlich sehr gut.

http://www.gesundheitsvorsorge-mobilfunk.de/schaedenkasten.gif


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Grenzwerte+und+Mobilfunk

http://disc.server.com/discussion.cgi?id=149495;article=85009;show_parent=1


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=impeach
http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=Downing+Street+Memo

The military implementation of the George W Bush administration's unilateralist foreign policy is creating monumental changes in the world's geostrategic alliances. The most significant of these changes is the formation of a new triangle comprised of China, Iran and Russia.

http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/?Page=Article&ID=3506

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=25017#


Informant: Scott Munson

This very disturbing report has been circulating the last few days. I do not know if it is true, and there has been no official confirmation, but the implications are pretty staggering.

The contention is that of the roughly 1700 deaths that have been officially recognized, these have been soldiers who have fallen KIA on the field of battle. BUT.there is an additional claim that there have been another roughly 6,210 who have died on the way to or after arriving at the army hospitals in Germany. Official figures also do not include suicides, which we know is a grossly underreported (if not outright denied).

Below and here http://www.dailykos.com/story/2005/5/18/115832/501 are some suggestions on how to try and verify this, or at the very least, if the DOD is in fact using creative accounting practices for casualty figures.

It seems prudent for the anti-war movement to speak up loudly about this, investigate, and find out if it is true. I have found that there is always some measure of truth in any of these allegations, and I see no reason whatsoever to trust the Government.


Charles

http://www.emfacts.com/weblog/index.php?p=68


http://omega.twoday.net/search?q=ICNIRP

Stratford Herald 8th June 2004

THE sanctity of Stratford Cemetery will be destroyed if plans for a mobile phone mast go ahead, it was claimed yesterday (Wednesday).

Campaigners trying to stop the 17-metre-high mast from being put on the chapel in the Evesham Road burial ground will stage a six-hour protest on Saturday.

Dozens of residents, some of whose relatives are buried at the cemetery, are expected to turn out.

Hutchinson 3G made the bid to install the mast there after their original plans to site it at the junction of Evesham Road and Halford Road withdrew the proposal in the face of local opposition which also won the support of Stratford MP John Maples.

Objections to siting the mast on the cemetery chapel were first raised at the annual town meeting in March when electors voted against it by 11 votes to eight with seven abstentions.

--------

David, please note the differing information!

Sandi


PHONE MAST 'DESECRATES CEMETERY'

Stratford Herald

THE sanctity of Stratford Cemetery will be destroyed if plans for a mobile phone mast go ahead, it was claimed yesterday (Wednesday).

Campaigners trying to stop the 17-metre-high mast from being put on the chapel in the Evesham Road burial ground will stage a six-hour protest on Saturday.

Dozens of residents, some of whose relatives are buried at the cemetery, are expected to turn out.

Hutchinson 3G made the bid to install the mast there after their original plans to site it at the junction of Evesham Road and Halford Road withdrew the proposal in the face of local opposition which also won the support of Stratford MP John Maples.

Objections to siting the mast on the cemetery chapel were first raised at the annual town meeting in March when electors voted against it by 11 votes to eight with seven abstentions.

Attac Deutschland / BLUE21
Pressemitteilung
Berlin, 9. Juni 2005

* Vor G7-Finanzministertreffen fordern Attac und BLUE21 Schuldenstreichung und internationale Steuern /
Proteste beim G8-Gipfel in Schottland geplant

* "Eitles Getöse und blanker Zynismus"


Vor Beginn des G7-Finanzministertreffens, das am 10. und 11. Juni in London stattfindet, haben das globalisierungskritische Netzwerk Attac und die Berliner Landesarbeitsgemeinschaft Umwelt und Entwicklung (BLUE21) Vorwürfe gegen die Schuldenpolitik der G7-Staaten erhoben und eine umfassende Schuldenstreichung gefordert. Die G7 verweigerten den Ländern des Südens seit über 20 Jahren eine Entschuldung und verhinderten damit einen wirtschaftlichen Neuanfang der Schuldnerländer, sagte Philipp Hersel, Geschäftsführer von BLUE21. Die Folgen müssen Millionen Menschen mit Armut und Elend bezahlen. "Wenn sich die G7 heute als Wohltäter und Weltverbesserer inszenieren, dann ist das in Wahrheit nur eitles Getöse. Und es ist blanker Zynismus gegenüber den Opfern einer Weltordnung, die tagtäglich millionenfach Elend und Tod hervorbringt und zulässt. Damit muss endlich Schluss sein."

Statt erneut wolkige Ankündigungen zu verbreiten, müssten die G7-Finanzminister endlich konkrete Schritte für eine Entschuldung einleiten, forderte Markus Meinzer von der Attac-AG Finanzmärkte. Um nur das Minimalziel der "UN Millennium Deveolpment Goals" (MDG) zur erreichen, seien jährlich mindesten 50 Milliarden Dollar zusätzlich erforderlich. Dabei bleiben die MDG schon weit hinter früheren Beschlüssen zurück und setzen statt auf eine Eliminierung nur auf eine Halbierung der weltweiten Armut. Die von Tony Blair vorgeschlagene "Internationale Finanzfazilität" stelle zwar bis 2015 verlässliche Entwicklungshilfezahlungen sicher, verschiebe die Belastungen aber in die Zukunft. Sinnvoller sei es, auf internationale Steuern, etwa auf Kerosin und Devisentransaktionen zu setzen, sagte Meinzer: "Für globale Probleme brauchen wir globale Lösungen: Globale Steuern, die die Profiteure der Globalisierung belasten und die weltweite Gerechtigkeitslücke schließen helfen."

Um gegen die Politik der G8 zu protestieren, sind rund um das Gipfeltreffen in Schottland (6.-8. Juli 2005) diverse Aktionen geplant, an denen sich auch Attac beteiligt. "Die Anmaßung der G8 als Weltregierung und ihre konkrete Politik wollen wir nicht schweigend akzeptieren", sagte Christiane Metzner von der Attac-Campusgruppe Potsdam, die eine Busfahrt nach Schottland organisiert hat. Unter dem Motto "Make Poverty History" ist für den 2. Juli eine Großdemonstration in Edinburgh vorgesehen. Vom 30. Juni bis 8. Juli findet dort darüber hinaus eine internationale Gegenkonferenz zum G8-Gipfel statt. In den Highlands nahe dem Gipfelort Gleneagels ist zudem ein großes Protestcamp geplant.

Für Rückfragen:
* Philipp Hersel, Tel. (0179) 6727 351
* Markus Meinzer, Tel. (0179) 318 7326
* Christiane Metzner, Tel. (0177) 306 2126

Weitere Informationen:

* zur Schuldenkrise: http://www.attac.de/schuldenkrise und http://www.blue21.de

* zu internationalen Steuern: http://www.attac.de/finanzmaerkte

* zu Protesten in Schottland: http://www.g8alternatives.org.uk/


Malte Kreutzfeldt
Pressesprecher Attac Deutschland
Post: Münchener Str. 48, 60329 Frankfurt/M
Tel.: 069/900 281-42, Mail: presse@attac.de, Fax: 069/900 281-99

Faced with daily reports of car bombs and kidnappings, it's difficult to feel optimistic about Iraq. But last week in the south of the country I heard a very different story. A story of the movement that has formed to rebuild the country's economy and national pride, to create an Iraq with neither the tyranny of Saddam nor the pillage of military occupation.

http://www.veteransforcommonsense.org/?Page=Article&ID=3496

06/08/05

General Augusto Pinochet, approaching his 90th year, has survived many years of legal harassments resulting from alleged human rights violations during the period of the Chilean military government's war on terrorism. On the basis of a U.S. Senate staff report, Pinochet is now going to be investigated for stashing $13 million in U.S. banks. What is interesting about the Pinochet case is that everything the former president of Chile is accused of, George W. Bush and his cronies are guilty of. Indeed, why are Senate staff wasting their time on 30-year-old alleged crimes of an elderly Chilean when the president of the United States ought to be in the dock? The prosecutor's brief -- the Downing Street Memo -- is already written...

http://www.antiwar.com/roberts/?articleid=6254

from Antiwar.Com, by Paul Craig Roberts -- Hat Tip to Sierra Times


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp

Winterthur - Vier Jugendliche aus Zug haben bei einem Ausflug nach Winterthur einen 15-Jährigen verprügelt, weil er ihnen keine Zigaretten geben konnte. Einer der Rowdies filmte die Tat mit seinem Handy.

Die vier 16- und 17-Jährigen hatten den Jüngeren nach Rauchbarem gefragt. Als der Velofahrer sagte, er habe nichts dabei, versetzten sie ihm kurzerhand mehrere Fausthiebe ins Gesicht. Der 15-Jährige stürzte vom Velo, konnte aber davonlaufen.

Einer der Täter hatte das Geschehen mit seinem Handy gefilmt. / Foto: fotos-direkt.de

Mütze und Brille, die er verloren hatte, steckten die vier Prügler ein, das Velo nahmen sie auch mit. Kurz darauf wurden sie festgenommen, wie die Winterthurer Stadtpolizei mitteilte. Sie gaben ihre Tat zu. Es hätte ihnen auch wenig gebracht, sie zu leugnen, hatte doch einer von ihnen das Geschehen mit seinem Handy gefilmt.

http://www.nachrichten.ch/detail/213688.htm


Nachricht von der BI Bad Dürkheim

06/07/05

Public broadcasting is the latest front in the Republican majority's assault on the 'liberal' media. After years of trying to destroy public broadcasting from without, right-wing Republicans are now trying to do so from within, by planting aggressive conservatives on the board and staff. These people have no qualms about destroying the Corporation for Public Broadcasting's function as a 'heat shield' from governmental influence. Rather, they seem bent on turning public broadcasting into a heat source -- a censorship center. This may be the most effective tactic yet in the longstanding struggle to kill public broadcasting." [editor's note: It is significant that nobody from "this side of the aisle" was complaining when public TV and radio were essentially lapdogs for the incumbents. What goes around ... - SAT]

http://www.inthesetimes.com/site/main/article/2139/

from In These Times, by Jerry Starr


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp

We are all conscripts in one sense or another. For all of us, it is hard to break ranks; to incur the disapproval, the censure, the violence of an offended majority with a different idea of loyalty. ... To fall out of step with one's tribe; to step beyond one's tribe into a world that is larger mentally but smaller numerically -- if alienation or dissidence is not your habitual or gratifying posture, this is a complex, difficult process. It is hard to defy the wisdom of the tribe: the wisdom that values the lives of members of the tribe above all others. It will always be unpopular -- it will always be deemed unpatriotic --- to say that the lives of the members of the other tribe are as valuable as one's own... (originally published 2003; re-posted 06/08/05)

http://tinyurl.com/7maxt

from Mother Jones, by Susan Sontag


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp

06/08/05

Fundamentalism of any kind is always dangerous on some level, much more so than mysticism can be. True mystics are the heavy hitters of the religious world, but more often than not they present a fragile, volatile psychology, and behave oddly at times. This is why mysticism is now called 'spirituality,' which is a much more user-friendly, accessible way of allowing for the same sort of thing, but staying under the radar. Mystics can scare people out of the pews. The Fundamentalists, along with the rest of the radical religious right in the United States, now constitute a major threat to the welfare and freedom of any person or organization that operates outside of their agenda, which by proxy is a fascist one. That includes anyone who is not them...

http://tinyurl.com/9npml

from SOLO HQ, by Richard D. Engle


Thomas L. Knapp

06/08/05

Everybody -- including Republicans from Ronald Reagan to Newt Gingrich -- has lionized FDR to the point that all that's necessary to clinch an argument for X or Y is to postulate that Roosevelt would have wanted it. It's like discovering a new page from the Bible which speaks to, say, the budget deficit. Hence the batty disputes between various would-be oracles over whether the Great FDR Spirit supports add-on or carve-out private accounts for Social Security. In case you're wondering, the correct answer is: Who cares? The idea that there was this defined, ideologically and intellectually coherent thing called 'The New Deal' is nonsense, as almost any historian worth his salt will tell you. And it's even a little funny that liberals so uniformly admire FDR's 'legacy.' After all, the military-industrial complex and the marriage of big business and government are as central to that legacy as Social Security...

http://www.nationalreview.com/goldberg/goldberg200506081050.asp

from National Review, by Jonah Goldberg


Thomas L. Knapp

http://www.truthout.org/docs_2005/060905E.shtml


Informant: Charles Bremer

06/09/05

At Tuesday's joint White House press briefing, Bush and Blair were finally asked about the memo in public, an event that the press dutifully chronicled. But the two leaders, not accepting follow-up questions, simply denied the accuracy of the memo's contents, while circumventing the central question of why Blair's most senior intelligence officer believed the White House had already decided on war in the summer of 2002. (Bush finished his response to the memo question with his well-worn catchphrase, 'The world is better off without Saddam Hussein in power.') The fact that it took five weeks for more than a handful of Washington reporters to focus on the memo highlights a striking disconnect between some news consumers and mainstream news producers. The memo story epitomizes a mainstream press corps that is genuinely afraid to ask tough questions and write tough stories about the Bush administration... [subscription or ad view required]

http://tinyurl.com/9hfl6

from Salon, by Eric Boehlert


Thomas L. Knapp

06/08/05

The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse -- sorry, that's Sens. John McCain and Russ Feingold and Reps. Chris Shays and Marty Meehan, Congress' Dark Knights of Campaign-Finance Reform -- have a message for bloggers: They're not 'out to get them.' The scare quotes are theirs. In comments submitted to the Federal Election Commission last week, as the regulatory body seeks advice on how to apply the McCain-Feingold law to the Internet, the enemies of the First Amendment had to walk a fine line. On one side, the politicians in them wanted to genuflect to democracy, open debate and all the new citizen journalists who seem to wield so much influence these days. On the other side, however, the clean-government obsessive-compulsives in them knew that freedom's just another word for something new to regulate...

http://www.techcentralstation.com/060805F.html

from TechCentralStation, by Ryan Sager


Thomas L. Knapp

06/08/05

Interview: "A former sergeant describes sex techniques used on detainees -- and why we all should be ashamed. TAP talks to Erik Saar, author of Inside the Wire: A Military Intelligence Soldier's Eyewitness Account of Life at Guantanamo .... Erik Saar, a clean-cut, former Bible-college student dressed in a white shirt, looks like someone who's just left the Army and still kind of misses it. Saar, 30, speaks nostalgically about his days as a sergeant and Arabic linguist -- right up to the moment when he was sitting in an interrogation room at Guantanamo Bay and watched things go terribly wrong. Sitting in a Starbucks in Rosslyn, Virginia, Saar talks about female interrogators, thongs in a supervisor's office, and, of course, Newsweek's 'Periscope' item...

http://www.prospect.org/web/view-web.ww?id=9831

from The American Prospect, by Tara McKelvey


Thomas L. Knapp

06/09/05

In a post-Renaissance world of enlightenment thinking, the 'divine right of kings' explanation could no longer be counted upon by the political class to justify its rule. A new sales gimmick was required. On the surface, the democratic principle had an air of plausibility to it: if government was inevitable, better to have its policies and practices determined by the general public than by an elite of rulers. In such a way, it was imagined, bloody warfare could be reduced and individual liberty preserved, as people would be disinclined to foster their own destruction and enslavement. Only the foolish would accept this newfound rationale for state power as a virtue in itself. But, as Mencken also advised: 'No one in this world, so far as I know ... has ever lost money by underestimating the intelligence of the great masses of the plain people.' To the statists -- ancient or modern -- 'democracy' became but another useful concept with which to condition weak minds to accept political rule...

http://www.lewrockwell.com/shaffer/shaffer107.html

from LewRockwell.Com, by Butler Shaffer


Thomas L. Knapp

06/09/05

Britain's record on human rights has been condemned in a report that criticises the Government for using illiberal policies to tackle terrorism, asylum and antisocial behaviour.
Alvaro Gil-Robles, the Council of Europe's human rights commissioner, warned Britain that its regime for combating terrorism flouted the fundamental human right of the presumption of innocence.The report found the granting of control orders by ministers against terror suspects was 'inherently one-sided.' Suspects, it added, should be charged under the ordinary criminal justice system...

http://news.independent.co.uk/uk/legal/story.jsp?story=645350

from Independent [UK]


Thomas L. Knapp

06/08/05

A clear majority of Americans say President Bush is ignoring the public's concerns and instead has become distracted by issues that most people say they care little about, according to a new Washington Post-ABC News poll. The survey found that 58 percent of those interviewed said Bush is mainly concentrating in his second term on problems and partisan squabbles that these respondents said were unimportant to them...

http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/ssistory.mpl/politics/3215543

from Houston Chronicle


Informant: Thomas L. Knapp