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I am working on the template of this blog today in order to chase down some problems that have developed with my template and widgets.

Macon County Commissioners

Coverage of the meetings of the Macon County Board of County Commissioners.

Franklin Town Board of Aldermen

Coverage of the meetings of the Franklin Town Board of Aldermen.

Macon County School Board

Coverage of the meetings of the Macon County School Board.

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Photos from my photoblog.

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Tuesday, February 27, 2007

Public Hearing in Jackson County Concerning New Construction Moratorium

I didn't mean to follow this story, but as I came through Sylva on my way home, I noticed a convoy of trucks leaving Sylva, and realized what was happening, that tonight was the Public Hearing I had been reading about in the Sylva Herald.

I have uploaded the videos to West Carolina Report and the still shots to my Photoblog because I really hate small photos.

The results of the meeting will be published here (probably late Wednesday afternoon), and I will link to the story from West Carolina Report. I was unable to attend the Public Hearing, and I may hear from Mr. McNeely tomorrow or the next day.

Update: 4.30 am Wednesday 02-28-2007

The Asheville Citizen-Times has coverage of the meeting last night:

SYLVA — Construction trucks presenting a show of force lined a roadway near Southwestern Community College on Tuesday as more than 1,300 people packed a public hearing on controlling growth.

Jackson County commissioners have proposed a six-month moratorium on new subdivisions while planners come up with guidelines for managing a building boom, much of it brought by newcomers to the area.


Real estate and building industries fear jobs brought in by transplants could be lost with the moratorium.

“We didn’t come to cause trouble,” said Randy Dillard, manager of Toxaway Concrete. “We just came to show them who they are putting out of business.”

The hearing attracted enough people to fill the college’s 1,000-seat Myers Auditorium to standing-room-only capacity. Hundreds more watched the meeting on televisions in the lobby.

The Jackson County Sheriff’s Office had deputies on hand to keep order at the meeting. There were no reported problems.




Commentary

I note in the AC-T coverage there were no photos of the construction-related trucks, just a report of their existence. Is this the result of a subtle bias, or did the reporter just not get there in time to photograph the trucks on the road, or side of the road? The made quite a sight, even parked on the side of the road.

There appears to be little concern for the property rights of people as the transplanted population seek to restrict the rights of other property owners, most often to preserve their 'viewshed,' and would restrict economic development that must take place to accommodate the expanding population.

What are the workers of these businesses to do if a moratorium is passed?
Will they be given special compensation, or allowances to draw unemployment during the period of this moratorium?


A Gathering of Eagles

I've been remiss in not getting the word out on a marxist group planning to march in DC from the Vietnam Memorial Wall to the Pentagon on St Paddy's Day to protest the war, and engage in a little vandalism.

There are efforts afoot to protect the Wall from desecration, and The Gray Dog has details about that, You can find details of the planned march here, [Warning, anti-American Propaganda contained in the link, Enter with Caution.]


A Gathering of Eagles website, and Forum


We cannot rest in our defense of Liberty, and we cannot allow a Memorial to our fallen brothers and sisters to be desecrated.

Monday, February 26, 2007

Al Gore's Carbon Footprint

A big Hat Tip goes to The Drudge Report for this gem of a story!!!

Green Boy has been exposed as just another hypocrite!

I wonder how large his carbon offsets will have to be to cover this? [Snapshot]


In the previous post, I said that I would work to increase my carbon footprint, and old Al has dwarfed any effort I had in mind. I need to dig up a photo of the Gore Mansion. I've heard rumors it looks just like the White House.

My power bill only runs between $60 and $80 a month since I've boosted the insulation.

I guess for the Democrats, it's do as I say, not do as I do.

I will laugh myself to sleep tonight!

Here is the end of the article I wish to preserve on my blog...

In his documentary, the former Vice President calls on Americans to conserve energy by reducing electricity consumption at home.
The average household in America consumes 10,656 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year, according to the Department of Energy. In 2006, Gore devoured nearly 221,000 kWh—more than 20 times the national average.
Last August alone, Gore burned through 22,619 kWh—guzzling more than twice the electricity in one month than an average American family uses in an entire year. As a result of his energy consumption, Gore’s average monthly electric bill topped $1,359.
Since the release of An Inconvenient Truth, Gore’s energy consumption has increased from an average of 16,200 kWh per month in 2005, to 18,400 kWh per month in 2006.
Gore’s extravagant energy use does not stop at his electric bill. Natural gas bills for Gore’s mansion and guest house averaged $1,080 per month last year.
“As the spokesman of choice for the global warming movement, Al Gore has to be willing to walk to walk, not just talk the talk, when it comes to home energy use,” said Tennessee Center for Policy Research President Drew Johnson.
In total, Gore paid nearly $30,000 in combined electricity and natural gas bills for his Nashville estate in 2006.
###
­­­­­­­­­­
The Tennessee Center for Policy Research is an independent, nonprofit and nonpartisan research organization committed to achieving a freer, more prosperous Tennessee through free market policy solutions.


Al Gore, Prophet of Doom

I began my daily routine at 2 am with a quick check of the news and saw that "an inconvenient truth" has won an Oscar for best documentary. In a world where Jimmy Carter and Yasir Arafat can share a Nobel Prize for Peace, it is expected...even though the film has been proven false in it's premise, it was a masterpiece of propaganda film making, like the Nazi Masterpiece, "Will."

If Al Gore is so sure of his hypothesis, why does he not face Bjorn Lomborg in debate? Why will he not even give an interview to reporters who have reported favorably on Lomberg's book, "The Skeptical Environmentalist?"

I'll tell you why. Because Al Gore knows it is a lie that humans are a significant contributor to Global Warming. The Solar Cycle, and Volcanic Emissions dwarf human emissions.


Gore, and his sycophants, keep bringing up Scientific Consensus as one of their arguments. My first path was in science, and their is no consensus in science, only in Marxist "Politically Correct" Theology. What scientists are supposed to rely on is the Scientific Method, which relies on observation and measurable, repeatable results.

As a personal protest against Al Gore, and his sycophants, I have been increasing my "Carbon Footprint" where ever possible, and I would like for you to join me.
Just do the opposite of what is suggested by that crowd. Leave your lights on. Take a driving vacation this year, and tour the countryside. Go to Cades Cove, Drive through your nearest National Park and camp out. Burn firewood, or if that isn't allowed, use Propane Stoves.

Or, if really want to stick it to them, just keep doing what you are doing... in their mind, that is still a criminal act because you are living in the most successful Capitalist Nation the world has ever seen, and even though we are less than 5 percent of the world's population, we generate most of it's wealth, and freely share it with others.

We have defeated Socialism, and they hate us for it, and we should rub it in their noses every chance we get. So go out, live your life, and ignore these nuts. Or do what I do, just laugh at them and point them to people who have already proven them wrong. Their heads will explode!!!

Saturday, February 24, 2007

A World Without America

Here is a ad campaign that has started in the UK:




Hat Tip: Defense Tech

The Mainstream Media is our Enemy

Ever since I became involved in following the news very closely, I have noticed that those reporting the news are often interested in a hidden agenda, and are not very transparent about their political views and goals.

I am sure that everyone who reads, or stumbles upon, this blog knows exactly where I stand on most issues, and have no illusions about my political affiliation. They can then judge for themselves whether or not what I say has any veracity.

Case in point...

For the past week or so, we have heard that the Brits are leaving Iraq, and being feed horsecrap about why they are doing so in furtherance of their [the media] political agenda, and quite possibly due to Bush Derangement Syndrome.

Someone else has done my research for me on this story, so I send you to the ever-capable Gateway Pundit post entitled:

What the Media Refuses to Tell You About the UK Troop Reductions

So, get hence, and read.

Friday, February 23, 2007

For Mark Johnson


This is Linda Cobaugh. She lost her brother, Mark Johnson to drugs. He was shot and killed over drug money.[Blogger refuses to let me post the photo...Click Here to see a full-size image on my photoBlog.--TP]

This is only one of the hundreds of people who have been harmed by drugs at the "Stop The Harm" Flashlight Vigil last night at City-County Plaza in Asheville, NC.

For me, this lady represents the hope that we can stop the harm. We can save people from drugs, we can save the families, the communities harmed by drugs.

The flag she holds represents all that is good about America, and hope that together we can do something about the problem.

I will keep you posted on further activities planned by the Asheville Buncombe Drug Commission, and hope to see you at next year's vigil!

Video Links: Stop The Harm Flashlight Vigil

The Videos of the "Stop The Harm" Flashlight Vigil have been uploaded to You Tube and are ready to be watched.
I have more information, and will post the written report as I have time.


I have embedded the first video to give you a flavor of the event.






Part 1--Introduction & Welcome



Part 2--Presentation by a Father and Son



Part 3--Opening Prayer & Fighting Back With Song



Part 4--Flashlight Ceremony & Presentation by Miss Amy



Part 5--"Stop The Harm" Chant & Closing Prayer [Link works now...TP]



Part 6--Councilman Dr. Mumpower Answers a Question

Thursday, February 22, 2007

Asheville Buncombe Drug Commission Community Flashlight Vigil Tonight

Tonight - - we want to "light up the sky" over Asheville...by asking everyone who cannot attend to join those at the vigil by stepping out on their porch, sidewalk, or deck with a flashlight to demonstrate their concern
about the harms of hard drugs. Look for the giant search light at 7:00 as the signal to "light up the sky and stop the harm"!
We need your help to get the word out to everyone!
---------------------
Asheville-Buncombe Drug Commission
Learn, focus, act ~ together...
Countdown!
Our community drug vigil is tonight!
---------
Drug Fact # 2
According to the Office of National Drug Policy, emergency room visits resulting from the abuse of painkillers alone has gone up 163% since 1995. Painkiller addiction from prescription and illegal purchases is one of the fastest growing hidden hard drug problems in the US.
We must stop the harm!

“Stop the Harm” Flashlight Vigil

Bringing our community together to shine a light on the harms of hard drugs…

Where: City-County Plaza (you bring a flashlight and we’ll bring the red cellophane covers)

When: Thursday evening, February 22, 2007, rain, snow or shine from 6:30-7:15 pm

Who: Anyone who has lost a family member to drugs, been personally affected by drugs, is

living near drug activity, or who cares about the harms.

Why: To highlight the harms of hard drugs, illuminate causes, and call the public and city leaders to action in addressing our open air drug market.

Event Schedule

  • Introductory comments- Councilman Mumpower
  • Opening prayer- Pastor Whitesides
  • Welcome from the Mayor- Mayor Bellamy
  • Take a stand- Matt Mittan
  • Presentation by a father and son on drug harms- Shad & Shad Jr. Waters
  • Presentation by a young lady- Ms. Amy
  • Fighting back with song- Rockell Whitesides
  • Flashlight ceremony – voices and lights over the city! Carl Mumpower
  • “Stop the Harm” chant- Selina Sullivan
  • Closing prayer followed by the Lord’s Prayer- Pastor Buddy Corbin

This will be a 30-40 minute event from beginning to end. Each presentation will be 2-3 minutes. The highlight will be a ceremony where participants (everyone is asked to bring a flashlight) will shine their light on the ground – those who have a family member, friend, or loved one who has been harmed will have a red cover on their flashlight and one by one call a name they wish to recognize and raise their flashlight toward the night as they do so. When all names have been called, everyone else in attendance will raise their flashlight and that will be the moment we turn on the SkyTracker search light. That, in turn, will be the signal for everyone in Asheville who cannot attend the event to step onto their porch, yard, or street and shine their own light toward the night. It’s all about shining a light on a commitment to “Stopping the Harm” of hard drugs in Asheville ~ together…

~Sponsored by the Asheville-Buncombe Drug Commission~

Dedicated to preventing and addressing the causes and consequences of hard drugs in our community…

drmumpower@aol.com ~ (828) 252-8390


Tuesday, February 20, 2007

XM Newsletter update about merger with Sirius Radio

The following Newsletter update was delivered to my mailbox today, and I thought I would share it with you after I voice my concerns about the merger.

I like XM77, XM110, XM112, XM113, XM133, XM 163-166.

I do not want these channels to change their content.

I would, however, enjoy a channel dedicated to NASCAR 24/7/365, and "several" in car audio channels during the race.

I do not want to hear Howard Stern. He is the primary reason I chose XM, besides what used to be a dedicated NASCAR channel where I could listen to old races.

Okay, enough whining, on to the letter in full complete with Lawyer Legalese at the end:




Dear XM Radio Subscriber:

We want to share with you some exciting news: Yesterday, in Washington
DC
, we announced XM Radio will be merging with Sirius Satellite Radio
to form the premier digital audio service.

The merger will create a satellite radio company that will provide
consumers across the country with more and better premium radio
programming. The combined company will be able to compete better in what has
become a very complex and dynamic entertainment market.

Where today our exclusive contracts mean you had to choose between
baseball and football or Oprah and Martha Stewart, the new company will
seek to ensure that in the future, you will be able to access both
companies' programming. And, once we are fully integrated, those of you who
have factory-installed satellite radio will no longer be limited to the
programming provided by the exclusive satellite radio service chosen by
their car manufacturer.

This merger should be completed in late 2007 or early in 2008.
Throughout the year, we will provide updates on how the merger is progressing
and information will be available at our website, www.xmradio.com.

Between today and the merger date, as well as during the period
immediately after the merger date, all of your services will remain the same.
The channel lineup, the customer service number, the great music
technology, and the XM Radio web site will all remain unchanged and there
will be no disruption to service. But, if you have questions, information
will be available and maintained on our website, and you can contact
our Listener Care team at 800-XMRADIO, with questions and concerns.

XM Radio continues to be committed to providing you the highest quality
audio entertainment and customer service available today. After the
merger, our new company will be able to offer you the most exciting
listening experience in radio.

Sincerely,

Hugh Panero
CEO, XM Satellite Radio


Forward Looking Statements
This letter contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of
the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such statements
include, but are not limited to, statements about the benefits of the
business combination transaction involving Sirius Satellite Radio Inc.
and XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc., including potential synergies and
cost savings and the timing thereof, future financial and operating
results, the combined company's plans, objectives, expectations and
intentions with respect to future operations, products and services; and
other statements identified by words such as "anticipate," "believe,"
"plan," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "will," "should," "may," or words of
similar meaning. Such forward-looking statements are based upon the
current beliefs and expectations of SIRIUS' and XM's management and are
inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive
uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are difficult to predict
and generally beyond the control of SIRIUS and XM. Actual results may
differ materially from the results anticipated in these forward-looking
statements.

The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to
differ materially from the anticipated results or other expectations
expressed in the forward-looking statement: general business and economic
conditions; the performance of financial markets and interest rates; the
ability to obtain governmental approvals of the transaction on a timely
basis; the failure of SIRIUS and XM shareholders to approve the
transaction; the failure to realize synergies and cost-savings from the
transaction or delay in realization thereof; the businesses of SIRIUS and XM
may not be combined successfully, or such combination may take longer,
be more difficult, time-consuming or costly to accomplish than
expected; and operating costs and business disruption following the merger,
including adverse effects on employee retention and on our business
relationships with third parties, including manufacturers of radios,
retailers, automakers and programming providers. Additional factors that could
cause SIRIUS' and XM's results to differ materially from those
described in the forward-looking statements can be found in SIRIUS' and XM's
Annual Reports on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, and
Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended March 31, 2006, June
30, 2006 and September 30, 2006 which are filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and available at the SEC's Internet
site www.sec.gov The information set forth herein speaks only as of the
date hereof, and Sirius and XM disclaim any intention or obligation to
update any forward looking statements as a result of developments
occurring after the date of this press release.

Important Additional Information Will be Filed with the SEC This
communication is being made in respect of the proposed business combination
involving SIRIUS and XM. In connection with the proposed transaction,
SIRIUS plans to file with the SEC a Registration Statement on Form S-4
containing a Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus and each of SIRIUS and XM
plan to file with the SEC other documents regarding the proposed
transaction. The definitive Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus will be mailed
to stockholders of SIRIUS and XM. INVESTORS AND SECURITY HOLDERS OF
SIRIUS AND XM ARE URGED TO READ THE JOINT PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS AND
OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY
BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT
THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION.

Investors and security holders will be able to obtain free copies of
the Registration Statement and the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus (when
available) and other documents filed with the SEC by SIRIUS and XM
through the web site maintained by the SEC at www.sec.gov. Free copies of
the Registration Statement and the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus
(when available) and other documents filed with the SEC can also be
obtained by directing a request to Sirius Satellite Radio Inc., 1221 Avenue of
the Americas, New York, NY 10020
, Attention: Investor Relations or by
directing a request to XM Satellite Radio Holdings Inc., 1500 Eckington
Place, NE Washington, DC 20002
, Attention: Investor Relations.

SIRIUS, XM and their respective directors and executive officers and
other persons may be deemed to be participants in the solicitation of
proxies in respect of the proposed transaction. Information regarding
SIRIUS' directors and executive officers is available in its Annual Report
on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005, which was filed with
the SEC on March 13, 2006, and its proxy statement for its 2006 annual
meeting of stockholders, which was filed with the SEC on April 21,
2006, and information regarding XM's directors and executive officers is
available in XM's Annual Report on Form 10-K, for the year ended December
31, 2005, which was filed with the SEC on March 3, 2006 and its proxy
statement for its 2006 annual meeting of shareholders, which was filed
with the SEC on April 25, 2006. Other information regarding the
participants in the proxy solicitation and a description of their direct and
indirect interests, by security holdings or otherwise, will be contained
in the Joint Proxy Statement/Prospectus and other relevant materials to
be filed with the SEC when they become available.

Please note: this is not a promotional e-mail. As an XM subscriber,
you will periodically receive service notices via e-mail. These service
notices are intended to provide you with helpful information that will
facilitate and enhance your XM listening experience.


You are receiving this email because you previously indicated that
you'd like to receive email updates from XM Satellite Radio. To
unsubscribe, please visit unsubscribe.xmradio.com

Hurricane Katrina charity tied to Islamic terrorist

19 February 2007: Continued investigation by the Northeast Intelligence Network of the Jamaat ul Fuqra terrorist organization has revealed additional information about the group's activities inside the United States - including the possible diversion of money to train terrorists and finance terrorist operations through a number of non-profit organizations, front companies and Islamic charities..

Just three months after Hurricane Katrina, one of the deadliest hurricanes ever to strike the U.S., the Muslim charity Hands to Hands Social Services Agency, Inc. was formed, ostensibly to assist the victims of the storm in the U.S. On September 21, 2005, exactly two months before the articles of incorporation were filed in New York State, the charity issued a press release through PRWEB, announcing that it sent its representatives to the Houston, Texas area to assist victims of Hurricane Katrina. A noble cause at its face, closer scrutiny of this organization and those involved raises serious questions about not only its legitimacy, but the financing of terrorist training through the diversion of funds to Muslim terror kingpin Sheikh Mubarak Ali Gilani. Hands to Hands Social Service Agency, Inc. is a domestic, not-for-profit corporation that has been traced back to international terrorist Sheikh Mubarak Ali Gilani of Lahore, Pakistan via the U.S. Jamaat ul-Fuqra headquarters in Hancock, New York.


Northeast Intelligence Network

Commentary

What do you wanna bet The Legacy Media won't mention this?


Monday, February 19, 2007

Putting RINO Senators On Notice for Non-Binding Resolution Vote



I guess to show my pop culture ignorance, I don't know who the guy in the picture is, but he looks like a lib, and on this blog, he follows my orders.


Keep holding that sign! It's not break time yet.

Flashlight Vigil for Thursday Evening Reminder

The goal of the Asheville-Buncombe Drug Commission is to "light up the sky" over Asheville this coming Thursday evening. The flashlight drug harm vigil on city-county plaza will find participants shining their lights skyward as they call the name of someone who has been harmed by drugs. Around 7:00 a giant searchlight beam coming from city-county plaza will be the signal for everyone in Asheville is who concerned about the harms of hard drugs to step onto their porch or yard and shine their own light.
Together - we want to "light up the sky"
over Asheville...
We need your help to get the word out to everyone!
---------------------
Asheville-Buncombe Drug Commission
Learn, focus, act ~ together...
Countdown!
4 days until our community drug vigil!
---------
Drug Fact # 4
The treatment success rate for addiction to crack cocaine and meth are abysmal. Some studies state that no more than 10% of those who become addicted to these drugs are able to achieve long term success in breaking away. We should not stop trying to help those already addicted, but greatest success will occur with
impairing recruitment of new users.
We must stop the harm!

“Stop the Harm” Flashlight Vigil

Bringing our community together to shine a light on the harms of hard drugs…

Where: City-County Plaza (you bring a flashlight and we’ll bring the red cellophane covers)

When: Thursday evening, February 22, 2007, rain, snow or shine from 6:30-7:15 pm

Who: Anyone who has lost a family member to drugs, been personally affected by drugs, is

living near drug activity, or who cares about the harms.

Why: To highlight the harms of hard drugs, illuminate causes, and call the public and city leaders to action in addressing our open air drug market.

Event Schedule

  • Introductory comments- Councilman Mumpower
  • Opening prayer- Pastor Whitesides
  • Welcome from the Mayor- Mayor Bellamy
  • Take a stand- Matt Mittan
  • Presentation by a father and son on drug harms- Shad & Shad Jr. Waters
  • Presentation by a young lady- Ms. Amy
  • Fighting back with song- Rockell Whitesides
  • Flashlight ceremony – voices and lights over the city! Carl Mumpower
  • “Stop the Harm” chant- Selina Sullivan
  • Closing prayer followed by the Lord’s Prayer- Pastor Buddy Corbin

This will be a 30-40 minute event from beginning to end. Each presentation will be 2-3 minutes. The highlight will be a ceremony where participants (everyone is asked to bring a flashlight) will shine their light on the ground – those who have a family member, friend, or loved one who has been harmed will have a red cover on their flashlight and one by one call a name they wish to recognize and raise their flashlight toward the night as they do so. When all names have been called, everyone else in attendance will raise their flashlight and that will be the moment we turn on the SkyTracker search light. That, in turn, will be the signal for everyone in Asheville who cannot attend the event to step onto their porch, yard, or street and shine their own light toward the night. It’s all about shining a light on a commitment to “Stopping the Harm” of hard drugs in Asheville ~ together…

~Sponsored by the Asheville-Buncombe Drug Commission~

Dedicated to preventing and addressing the causes and consequences of hard drugs in our community…

drmumpower@aol.com ~ (828) 252-8390

Sunday, February 18, 2007

Iraq Terror Groups Offer Non-Binding Ceasefire

(2007-02-17) — A coalition of major terror groups operating in Iraq today announced a symbolic, non-binding ceasefire in response to House Democrats’ passage of a non-binding resolution rejecting President George Bush’s troop surge plan.

Al Qaeda in Iraq, the Shiite Mahdi army and representatives of a Sunni car-bomb cartel said they would continue to fully fund martyrdom operations, with help from their friends in Iran, Syria and elsewhere


More at Scrapple Face

Hat Tip to Charles G. for sending me this, I needed the laugh!

What is the Status of The John Batchelor Show?

Does anyone know about the status of The John Batchelor Show?

I still get a goodly number of hits each week from people googling, yahooing, asking, msning, and other search engines seeking the same type of information.

So, any one who knows, just leave me a comment.

If you have recordings of past shows, and wish to trade for ones you don't have, send an email to ThunderPigBlog+JBS@gmail.com

Those of you who have my regular email may send info to my personal email address.

Regards,
Thunder Pig

New Blog focusing on Immigration Issues

I have found a new blog that promises to be a good one, so swing by illegal immigration and check it out.
The author is Frank L of The Blue Collar Republican

The InfoWar BattleSpace: Some Thoughts

>
This is part of the trend toward a Total War environment, where everyone can participate, or have their words used in the ongoing war effort by either (or both) side(s). This is where opponents of the war have the unintended effect of making the conflict last longer by giving aid and moral comfort to the enemy.

One of the things that I wonder about is what would this look like if there was a shooting war in America between two (or more) factions? Don't laugh---I know people who say it is unavoidable, and are making preparations for it now. I am making Defensive Preparations only, as I don't intend to go hunting people if the balloon goes up.


Below is the article that set me to thinking...


The media has increasingly become a battlefield in the war on terror. In the past two months, the Iraqi hostiles have increased their efforts to shoot down helicopters. Such attacks, which can kill as many as a dozen Americans in a single attack, are intended to make a big media splash. The enemy has sought to generate media coverage in order to weaken the will of the American people. This is what happened with the crashed helicopters in Somalia after the 1993 firefight. The media coverage of two shot-down Blackhawk helicopters, and dead American troops being dragged through Somalian streets, was what forced the pullout. In reality, the American troops had won a tactical victory in the 18-hour firefight.

One recent example of what has led to this frustration with the media coverage from Iraq is the latest tape from Ayman al Zawahiri, the number two man in al Qaeda. Zawahiri's tape not only carried personal shots at President Bush, it also had comments directed towards the Democrats, reminding them of their opposition to American efforts in Iraq. The fact that Zawahiri is calling out the Democrats does indicate a sense of nervousness about the American " surge" (21,000 additional troops in Iraq) and changes in the rules of engagement. At the same time, the media seems to be glossing over this fact.

The tape by Zawahiri leads to another question: Are the changes in the rules of engagement and the deployment of additional troops working? Again, reports ignored by the mainstream media can answer the question. Moqtada al Sadr. and senior elements of his Mahdi militia, have apparently fled to Iran to avoid capture or being killed. Also largely ignored is the fact that many people in Baghdad have welcomed the surge. One would think that much of this would be relevant to the recent debate over the non-binding resolution in Congress. But it doesn't appear, and is ignored, as many other signs of progress have been over the nearly four years since the start of the war.



Strategy Page


Saturday, February 17, 2007

Immigration by the Numbers and Blogburst Video

The next two videos will provide some background on what the dangers of Illegal Immigration are, and the third video is from the people at Freedom Folks as part of a new project they are launching.


Immigration by the Numbers I




Immigration by the Numbers II




Blogs for Borders Blogburst for 02-12-007

Video of Americans Confronting Mexican Insurgents

I have found a new word to describe the Illegal Aliens who demand amnesty, and the Rights of Citizenship as their reward for illegally sneaking across the border: Mexican Insurgents.

With a new wave of protests planned for this spring, things should begin to get interesting.



Hat Tip: Kathy R
Props to DNET for reconsidering their policy on Video Sharing Sites.

Friday, February 16, 2007

The Right Side of History

Noisy Room has an excellent video you should watch. [Link to Video]


I have a bad feeling about the aid and comfort this vote will give to the Enemies of Mankind.

666th Post Non-Binding Resolution Passes US House

I think it is odd that this post is my 666th on this blog, and a post I have to report the passing of House Resolution 63 opposing the Surge of Troops that President Bush has ordered for Iraq.

Here is the Roll Call of the vote.

My Representative, Congressman Heath Shuler voted for it. I think who ever wins the Republican Primary the next time around should use this vote to his/her advantage...especially since it has already spooked Mookie to flee the country.

At least the Defeatocrats and RINOs have his [Mookie] back, huh?

I wonder how long it will be before they [Dems] start looking for "wasteful" spending as a ruse to start taking away funds for the troops?





When Wasps Attack



I took this Monday during lunch. I was trying to get a close up shot of the wasp, so that I could use its mugshot as an avatar. The Wasp took objection, and rushed the erstwhile paparazzi, forcing him to flee the scene with much haste!!! =D
Also, check out my PhotoBlog for my newest posting.

Non-binding Resolution for the Defeatocrats

In local news, newly minted Congressman Heath Shuler rose to support the Non-binding Resolution. [Text of Speech] He has also blogged about it on his blog at the Asheville CitizenTimes website.

Here is a portion of an entry:

The days of Congress shirking its responsibility are over. We have a duty to ensure the voices of Americans are heard. We have an equal obligation to ensure that when Congress says it is supporting our troops, that our troops are actually being supported.

For example, just this week it was reported that there are still 4,000 Humvees driving around Iraq without the armor needed to protect them against lethal weapons known as "explosively formed penetrators" (EFP). These EFP’s are now inflicting 70 percent of the American casualties in the country, according to U.S. military and civilian officials.

Think about that, four years into this conflict with billions of taxpayer dollars spent, we have troops in Humvees without the protection they need to protect American lives.

I notice that it does not enter into his mind to address the source of the EFPs that are crossing the border into Iraq. His solution is that our troops 'duck and cover,' a mentality that allows the problem to continue. It is a little like putting on insect repellent to counter misquitoes instead of draining the swamp that gave birth to them.

It is my opinion that this Non-binding Resolution is but the first step in a plan to defund this war, just like in Vietnam.

Here is my response to Congressman Shuler (D-NC) I posted on his blog:

Thunder Pig said...
This non-binding resolution is but the first step in a Democratic Plan to deny funding for the war, just like in Vietnam. And the results, if successful, will probably result in as many deaths, if not more than the three million or so who died when we fled our allies in South Vietnam. Iran will then stand to reign over the Straits of Hormuz, and astride a significant part of the world's oil supply. It matters not whether we get a single drop of oil from the Middle East. The people we buy our products from do, and we will pay increased prices for everything from Japan, Europe, China, and elsewhere should the dominant player (sans our participation) decide to move in and slaughter everyone who opposes them, and charge whatever they want, and the number one sponsor of terrorist groups will have billions of extra euros with which to spend. All these euros will further depress the value of the dollar...costing us much more than we are spending now.

Posted on 02/15/2007 at 03:07:02 AM

More on the resolution below.


House Resolution 63 states:

110th CONGRESS
1st Session

H. CON. RES. 63

Disapproving of the decision of the President announced on January 10, 2007, to deploy more than 20,000 additional United States combat troops to Iraq.

IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

February 12, 2007

Mr. SKELTON (for himself, Mr. LANTOS, and Mr. JONES of North Carolina) submitted the following concurrent resolution; which was referred to the Committee on Armed Services, and in addition to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, for a period to be subsequently determined by the Speaker, in each case for consideration of such provisions as fall within the jurisdiction of the committee concerned


CONCURRENT RESOLUTION

Disapproving of the decision of the President announced on January 10, 2007, to deploy more than 20,000 additional United States combat troops to Iraq.

    Resolved by the House of Representatives (the Senate concurring), That--
      (1) Congress and the American people will continue to support and protect the members of the United States Armed Forces who are serving or who have served bravely and honorably in Iraq; and
      (2) Congress disapproves of the decision of President George W. Bush announced on January 10, 2007, to deploy more than 20,000 additional United States combat troops to Iraq.
Link to Resolution

Summary of Actions to Date

I also refer you to the following blog, Let Freedom Ring, for more information on this disturbing development in defeatism by the Defeatocrats of the 110th
Congress, and they are already ramping up efforts to keep Congressman Shuler in office...it is nice to see that, according to Chris Cillizza of The Fix, he [Shuler] is considered in danger of losing his seat in 2008.

Thursday, February 15, 2007

The President and Vice President Speak to the Nation




Now, this is an Alternate Universe worth living in!!!



This is the official uploaded version.


Come to the Flashlight Vigil on Feb 22


Asheville-Buncombe Drug Commission
Learn, focus, act ~ together...
Countdown!
8 days until our community drug vigil!
---------
Drug Fact # 8
In a majority of child abuse and neglect cases,
some form of parental drug use lurks in the background.
Drug abuse always harms more than the user...
We must stop the harm!

“Stop the Harm” Flashlight Vigil


Bringing our community together to shine a light on the harms of hard drugs…

Where: City-County Plaza (you bring a flashlight and we’ll bring the red cellophane covers)

When: Thursday evening, February 22, 2007, rain, snow or shine from 6:30-7:15 pm

Who: Anyone who has lost a family member to drugs, been personally affected by drugs, is

living near drug activity, or who cares about the harms.

Why: To highlight the harms of hard drugs, illuminate causes, and call the public and city leaders to action in addressing our open air drug market.

Event Schedule

  • Introductory comments- Councilman Mumpower
  • Opening prayer- Pastor Whitesides
  • Welcome from the Mayor- Mayor Bellamy
  • Take a stand- Matt Mittan
  • Presentation by a father and son on drug harms- Shad & Shad Jr. Waters
  • Presentation by a young lady- Ms. Amy
  • Fighting back with song- Rockell Whitesides
  • Flashlight ceremony – voices and lights over the city! Carl Mumpower
  • “Stop the Harm” chant- Selina Sullivan
  • Closing prayer followed by the Lord’s Prayer- Pastor Buddy Corbin

This will be a 30-40 minute event from beginning to end. Each presentation will be 2-3 minutes. The highlight will be a ceremony where participants (everyone is asked to bring a flashlight) will shine their light on the ground – those who have a family member, friend, or loved one who has been harmed will have a red cover on their flashlight and one by one call a name they wish to recognize and raise their flashlight toward the night as they do so. When all names have been called, everyone else in attendance will raise their flashlight and that will be the moment we turn on he SkyTracker search light. That, in turn, will be the signal for everyone in Asheville who cannot attend the event to step onto their porch, yard, or street and shine their own light toward the night. It’s all about shining a light on a commitment to “Stopping the Harm” of hard drugs in Asheville ~ together…

~Sponsored by the Asheville-Buncombe Drug Commission~

Dedicated to preventing and addressing the causes and consequences of hard drugs in our community…

drmumpower@aol.com ~ (828) 252-8390

Wednesday, February 14, 2007

VICTORY IN IRAQ PREVIEW: Mookie Flees Surge

Feb. 13, 2007 — While members of the U.S. House of Representatives take turns weighing in on President Bush's planned troop surge in Iraq, the focus in Iraq is not on the arrival of more U.S. troops, but the departure of one of the country's most powerful men, Moqtada al Sadr and members of his army.

According to senior military officials, al Sadr left Baghdad two to three weeks ago and fled to Tehran, Iran, where he has family.

Al Sadr commands the Mahdi army, one of the most formidable insurgent militias in Iraq, and his move coincides with the announced U.S. troop surge in Baghdad.

Sources believe al Sadr is worried about an increase of 20,000 U.S. troops in the Iraqi capital. One official told ABC News' Martha Raddatz, "He is scared he will get a JDAM [bomb] dropped on his house."

Sources say some of the Mahdi army leadership went with al Sadr.

Read the rest at ABC News

Read the article at Little Green Footballs, where I was inspired by one of the commentors to post this video to give us a bit of the flavor for how it went, complete with Congress as the Three-Headed Guy:






And all this while Congress contemplates Snatching Defeat from the Jaws of Victory.

Tuesday, February 13, 2007

CALL TO ACTION---Contact Bank of America

TELEPHONE RALLY
Bank of America Higher Standards Newsroom
Bank of America https://www. bankofamerica. com is offering credit cards to customers without a social security card (illegal aliens).
CALL
CORPORATE AFFAIRS Bank of America
415.717.0195
CALL
TOLL FREE NUMBER - when phone is answered pres "O" for operator - you may have to hold

California

1.800.622.8731

ALL OTHER STATES

1.800.432-1000

Write a postcard/letter
Bank of America CEO
Kenneth D. Lewis
Chairman, CEO and President
Bank of America Corporate Center
100 North Tryon Street
Charlotte, North Carolina 28255

*ARTICLE
Bank of America offering credit cards to illegal immigrants