The Gulf in US between Primary Care and Specialty Care

     Because of having to attend to a life-threatening experience, I came to realize there's a gulf between the primary physician's activities on behalf of the patient--me--and the specialist's. 

     I was given of hint of this gulf, when I registered at the Internal Medicine Clinic where my specialist has an office for processing his patients.  The registration form had no obvious section for entering the Primary Care's Physician and place of business.  Moreover, when I journeyed to the Primary Care Facility, La Fe Clinic here in downtown El Paso, I noticed the Provider Xeroxing the list of medicines prescribed by the Medical Internist.  And while she talked about the items on the list with me, she did not bother to write down who she could call at the Internal Clinic to learn further about my case and to establish communication with my specialist!  It was of no concern to her!  That was further suggested by her lack of interest in what tests he had conducted.  Indeed, when I mentioned to her nurse that I had given my permission to the Internal Specialist to make use of the blood samples taken at La Fe the week before, he had probed for my reasons to prompt such a hand-over.

     The point being that with the lack of communication between primary care physician and specialist, there is no sense of a unified team approach to my condition and its amelioration during my care in their hands.  I felt that there were two approaches, two hands-on duplicating tests, and the writing of opinions, which may have few points of convergence in their analyses; and an incredible reduplication of effort.  I think this physical hiatus is the reason the Mayo Clinic stresses among its providers to "travel together" in attending to each patient's list of maladies--at least they'll get the story straight among them.       

Welcome, East Ukraine into Federation of Independent States

Governments in the Ukrainian Territory Today   

     Russia took the Crimea away from the Ukraine.  Now, East Ukraine, with the help of Russia, is declaring itself independent from Kiev. 

     There is precedence within the Russian Federation of Independent States for such a declaration.  The Russian Georgians did so a few years back.  And before that in Moldva, a segment of the country became independent from the rest.

     I assume that the same adjustments will be made between the Ukraine and the East Ukraine that have been applied in these other changes in governmental rule, now stabilized over time.   Importantly, while it is obvious that the new government of East Ukraine has no debts, the fact that the Ukraine's borders have been redefined implies the government in Kiev is not responsible for obligations and understandings that applied when the country was whole.  So it, too, is debt-free at this moment in its primordial history of boundary instability.

     The above means that there is no reason for the IMF to loan money to the Ukrainian government, when by treaty and by force the Ukraine ruled from Kiev has only just recently been circumscribed and its boundaries drawn.  Any debts and obligations done before today are not the province of the Ukrainian government, since its jurisdiction had not been stabilized.

     And we know that plenty of governments have gone bankrupt through the ages.

Russia's Commitment to the Russian Federation of Independent States

     If Russia is truly committed to enforcing the provisions of the Constitution of the Federation, I would expect that it will immediately withdraw forces from Islamic provinces within its jurisdiction and permit thereby the establishment of an Islamic Independent State in the Federation from territory that is now under its control. 




    
              

Pres. Obama's Plan for the Near East

Nearly every commentator on international politics has weighed in on the question of how to rid Syria and Iraq of the apparently Sunni-sponsored terrorists, so here's my two cents!

I think President Obama's plan is excellent; and if it does succeed, he really will firm up his claim to being a Great US President! 

That said, I want to stress that the US ought not to take sides (any longer!) in the Sunni-Shite civil war in Iraq.  As is well known and was exactly predicted, Iran has taken control of the politics in Southern Iraq.  I think areas in northern Iraq should remain in the hands of the Kurds, but I also think that the rest of northern Iraq should be controlled by the Sunnis.  How this is possible when the Bagdad government is Shite dominated, I don't know.  It can be readily fixed, no doubt.

The important point I wish to emphasize is that the Secretary of Defense and the Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff must be in charge.  This is a very delicate position for the US to maintain: no boots on the ground and ultimately, a diplomatic resolution to the Syrian-Iraq upheavals once the terrorists are brought under check.  The US never abandoned its concerns for the well-being of Syria. 

P.S.  There's been little news, but how is the Taliban areas of Afghanistan being brought into the Kabul government--whose control of Afghanistan is to Kabul's city limits!

  

Kashmir needs flood control technology implemented

For the past 20 years I've been urging a resolution to the conflict between Pakistan and India over the Kashmir.  Each side has its own somewhat pervasive arguments, but the one that I think that would decide the territory's integrity is that of which country claiming it is able to assist it in implementing technological methods to control the rivers' flooding the plains.

This new communications network I've been privileged to use has enabled me to get the Kashmir point of view!  They are plagued with water flooding not just its farmlands but its cities.  Why has not some nation come to the aid of this precious province? 

I say no country deserves to rule that land unless it is able to solve Kashmir's flood problem.

What the Next Step in Iraq should be for US

I heard the Sunday morning news programs--again, F. Sakiria's program on CNN outstanding--and none carried hostile criticisms of what the US military, led by General Dempsey, is doing in Iraq!  Surprising.

They contained comments from participants to the effect that the US has no overall plan or strategy in the Middle East.  That to my mind is just wishful thinking, for critics often refrain from endorsing what this Administration is trying to accomplish there--namely, to establish governments that support their citizenry and create economic and social conditions for stability in the region; and friendly to the West.

Despite removing Maliki from political governance in Iraq, the new government in Baghdad is likely to remain favoring Shia (-Shiite) policies over and against the will of the Sunnis (supported in many ways by the Saudis).  This should continue the already heightened tension in Iraq among the three Islamic religious factions. 

By the US' arming the Kurds independently of the Baghdad regime, a way to bring about a stable federalist government among the Shia, Sunnis and Kurds, each governing its own Iraqi region, is emerging. As one analyst from Yale put it today (8/17/14) on one of the Sunday morning broadcasts, 'The Sunnis only are in the long run able to drive out the ISIS rebels, who must rely on Sunni internal support in order to carry out their religiously motivated mission in Iraq.'

In return for getting the ISIS out of Iraq, the Sunnis should be granted essential autonomy from the Shia-controlled government in Baghdad, turning that government into virtually a regional agency, though the conduit of national economic affairs.  Each regional government would have its own military.  Right now, the Sunni military, I understand, is coupled with the ISIS military force, which isn't all that bad because that link will be useful in turning around the situation in Syria.

Maybe, I should have listed this item under WHACKO-Theory!!  

Israeli Opportunity to Win Over the Palestinians

Now that the guns and missiles have ceased creating havoc in Gaza, Israel stands in position to exert control in the region, I contend.

The issue to my mind is for Israel to alight upon a controlling security force among the Palestinian area inhabitants.  It could be composed of Hamas-militants and social workers who are sympathetic to ending any further conflict between Palestinians and Israelis.  In a recent program on CNN, some reporters on the Gaza scene claim there are such designates.

Perhaps a more promising tact, is to accept the Hamas recommendation that there be international monitors positioned in Gaza, and perhaps, on the West Bank, to assure no further unprovoked clashes occur between the two sides,  Since Egypt brokered this particular cease-fire, selecting the Egyptians seems quite natural.  Additionally, this force could be sizable, sufficiently so, to assure Israel of  no further hostile stockpiling of weaponry that might threaten the peace.

In any case, I appeal to Israel to take advantage of its unique present position to influence the political and military affairs transpiring in Palestinian occupied lands.

Ukrainian Fight for the hearts of its people

I concur with Hilary Clinton that in any conflict there is a propaganda campaign that should be successfully conducted.

In the Ukraine today a battle is waging to convince the Ukrainians and the Russian rebels, in contradistinction to the Russian-based aggressors, that they share much in the way of cultural That heritage has been greatly influenced by Russia, but each country has its own ways of doing things.  I believe a propaganda deluge should be instituted to both convince the Ukrainians, including the present-day rebels, to remain one united country, yet stay in close proximity, as brothers, with the Russians of the Mother country.  It is true Russia spawned the modern Ukraine; but it is the latter that must, as an offspring, be given the freedom to grow and develop into a mature independent state.

So, the real battle is not on the battlefield; it is in the realm of values and loyalty.  One cannot be a citizen of one country, enjoying the rights and privileges of that country, yet profess loyalty to another.  The finances of the Ukraine can be fixed, but not on the battlefield, particularly since Russia won't dole out a dime to help the Ukrainians--so declared! 

Fate of the Displaced Children from the South

Long before I started writing in blog format, I traveled the world.  One of my destinations was Guatemala City upon more than one occasion.

I heard rumors that the police there were harassing youth gangs.  More than harassing, I heard they would round up a bunch of these wayward kids and shoot them dead.  To be sure, kids were a menace downtown to businesses.  They would haunt the bus stations wanting food and money from bus passengers.  They plagued local establishments, as they committed vandalism and theft from customers and store-owners alike including fast food restaurants.  But though I saw some of their public acts in the course of their being pests, even to cars in traffic, I never saw, though heard about this police and military alleged response.

I would stay at the International Hotel downtown, so I was indeed witness to some things. But what is more, I saw and talked with Catholic nuns, whom I took to be concerned for these children's well-being.  But I was not writing tomes at the time and had more pressing items of concern and so paid little attention to the question, what could be done to help these children, other than assuming that the Catholics could try to help them?

However, since the current flood of kids coming up from via Mexico, I became grateful that the US is doing something good.  You know the Republicans are probably right--this social problem in Central America--Honduras, Guatemala, etc. has been going on for years; but I never thought that the US could do something on behalf of these street kids.  Truly, they are here in the US  as displaced persons with no home and no hope; and must come with fear of being murdered should they be left in their native land, even as so many have come to meet that fate over the years, so I have heard.  Moreover, maybe some good will come from the President's conversations with the Central American Presidents

In any case, these children represent no threat to the US security, and it is preposterous to permit them to fall in the hands of a national guard unit, as Governor Perry is advocating, or to treat them as likely criminals here, despite whatever misdemeanors they have committed in their homelands.

Should they be permitted to stay in the US, I am confident that most will become law-abiding and prosperous members of the communities in which they will grow up and mature.

Incidentally, should we not thank the many philanthropic organizations that are sponsoring them once they are accepted on our US shores?  The President has asked for $4 billion but due to the generosity of Americans, these children are being welcomed and accepted, in a land foreign to them but in which they have come to trust and believe in, largely due to the reception and treatment they are receiving on our shores!  Really, again the Republicans are right:  there need be no federal special grants meted out to these Hispanic-born displaced children, for they have already been welcomed and American hospitality provided them.

You say, how about the extra social services they impose upon the already over-burdened social agencies and educational systems throughout the country.  Frankly, the numbers of them are minuscule compared to the numbers of refugees that Jordan and Turkey have had to accept as the Syrian war continues.  We must do our share to overcome the disasters of human abuse and death that plague the planet; no one is asking for saintly effort, just serious efforts to show compassion and concern for our fellow men, women and children.
      

Playing the Yuppie Game

I was looking to find a city in Texas that I could call home after my disastrous physical debilitation that caused me to leave Las Vegas in great haste for fear of my life!

I thought maybe I'd try Austin, Texas.  When I arrived on Greyhound, I discovered I had to take a taxi, costing $20, to arrive downtown.  There didn't seem to be any obvious bus transportation to the center of town from the very far north, where the bus station is located.

I tried a few motels recommended to me by a taxicab driver.  Nothing I could afford.  I then simply walked around on Congress Street; and discovered to my chagrin that I had entered Yuppie land.  The distinguishing features of being in Yuppie land is nobody wants to notice you.  They are intent on keeping focus on their own affairs, so that to them, you do not exist.  They enjoy the landscape of smart, new buildings or restored old ones to which they must go in to accomplish whatever they're about. Employees that I asked for directions from gave me the phone book and said, "Look it up!"

I went into a St. Vincent de Paul thrift store and asked where was the nearest homeless shelter and soup kitchen.  They needed to look it up, while I waited the ten minutes.  They simply reported it's on Noches Street, forgetting to add how I might get there.  Really, I didn't think they knew.  It was obvious they were not concerned with whether or not I was homeless.

The people on the streets tended to be young, upcoming.  Determined, they were intensely concerned to achieve their own projects, the most blatant by their actions and regard for me, even when I asked them a question, was "I'm out to get mine.  Get away; you can't help me!"  But they seemed to relate well to the one with whom they were walking or getting into their car or entering a plush address.

I understand that Dallas is similarly snobbish; and I know, because I've been there several times, that Oklahoma City, former home of Timothy McVey, is another city filled with snobs, disdainful of the common man or worse, the poor.  Santa Barbara, where I've stayed upon occasion borders on it but there's the beach which attracts the nondescripts and the local police to monitor their conduct.

The reason I found this circumstance in Austin so disconcerting is that I like some of the things Rick Perry has done during his tenure as governor of the state.  Yet, Austin is the state's capital.  How would he really feel towards the poor and indigent; toward the Latino kids who have entered the country in refugee status.  Would he be devoted to make sure that the Yuppies found it easy to exist in a world where they could avoid the poor and people in need of governmental assistance?  I don't know.  But I know that Austin is not the place for poor people to live.  Indeed, some persons let me in on the local secret: if you're poor, try San Antonio. but stay away from Austin!  

      

Self-determined Independence in The Russian Federation

The many years ago, when I was in Russia, working on its new Constitution (that is still in effect) , I held to the principle that, through self-determination, any peoples could declare itself  an independent state or political entity, separating itself from the rest of the known state.  So long as the newly created entity could be financially viable.

So, I did not complain or raise objection when part of Georgia, with the help of Russia, went independent.  Apparently, it's worked well for them.

Nor did I complain much when the Crimea went independent, and then subsequently, joined Russia.  I could see that Russia was significantly committed to paying the bills for it, because the site would pay for itself once the seaport (that China is building) is completed.

However, the story is different for the Eastern Ukraine.  Here, Putin is permitting a band of Russian hoodlums to control the separatist government, such as it is.  Moreover, these hoodlums are proving too much for even the Russian government to handle.  What has happened is that there's a cannon loose in international politics, destroying world order, not just limited to the Ukraine.  Action must be taken to get these hoodlums out of power.  Moreover, the Eastern Ukraine could never sustain itself financially.

Israel's Invasion of Gaza

I've sometimes contacted the Israeli government over the past thirty years or so, and I've gotten the impression their concept of international politics as it pertains to them is in the quotation, "Let some other organization be responsible; not us, not Israel!"  -- "Let the United Nations be responsible for the Palestinians living on our land, not us!"  "Let the United states push for a two-state solution between the Israelis and the Palestinians" when they know that the Palestinians have no money to be an independent state.  Very well, let the US go ahead with its proposal and see where it leads.  NOWHERE!

But recently, they have taken a more responsible role in affairs close to home.  They have sought to stabilize the Syrian situation through military action on their part.  They continue to keep the crazy Hezbollah militants in check.  And now just in the past ten days they are declaring responsibility for Gaza. Specifically, they are aiming to wipe out the Hamas-militants who have assumed power over the Palestinians in Gaza.  They are intent on expanding their military might to include the entire peninsula.  This is indeed an internationally responsible course of action for the world power that Israel is.  It also displays wise ownership of its lands, regardless of who are the occupants.      

I Ran out of Las Vegas for my life's breath!

I was enjoying Las Vegas tremendously.  I had a neat apartment.  Everything was fine.  For nearly a year.

Then, the heat of this past summer arrived.  At first, I had only a minor rash under my arms.  Then, it spread like wildfire throughout my arms and legs and back.  I bought calamine lotion to spray to alleviate, though it didn't help.

Then, came the difficult-to-breathe encounters I experienced. The final one was the moment before I got my duffel bag out and filled it with temporary provisions.  I tell you, it was as if my lungs would not accept any air because they were blocked.  It came and it went, so between times I did breathe.  I left immediately in a state of fear.

It is true, I was not using air conditioning because of the expense involved, but I had bought a fan to help circulate the air.  At the end, just before leaving early in the morning when the air was fresh and cooler, I was able to breath and to get the air into my body.

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aftermath:

1.  On Greyhound, I got talking to a man who said he was an occasional chef in Vegas.  He confessed that he could not work summers in Vegas because the air was too oppressive for him.

2.  People here in El Paso know of the problem in Vegas.  These people explained to me that only some people are affected--and, I think it is true--and generally, they must stay in Vegas awhile before the high pressure or whatever it is that attacks the lungs makes it dangerous to try to breathe there.

3.  Needless to say, the heat rash has gone away and I don't have any problem breathing, less more than one so life-threatening as I experienced in Vegas.

Why don't they tell people, especially older seniors not to live there?

4.  I saw a movie on HBO last night--Leaving Las Vegas--intimating that drunks go to Gegas, and they leave.  But there's more important reasons for leaving than just one's own inclinations and whims.  How about one's being able to stay alive?

Have people died in Vegas because they didn't read the signs in themselves of not being able to breathe; of their body being overwhelmed with rash and discomforture?  Maybe, some being too drunk to realize?

The Muslim Revolution: Hooray!

I am Christian.  Nevertheless, I support Arab Spring results and the Renaissance of the Muslim Religion.

I am addressing this communique primarily to the Islamic potentiates in Saudi Arabia, because you hold the keys to Islam..

What we are seeing in northern Syria and in Iraq is a gathering of forces whose identity is first and foremost not that of a nation or a sect, but simply the beliefs in Islam; and they are fighting and are dying for a land for their people, much like Israel has done over the years. They obviously are aware of how the Western countries have taken advantage of them for centuries.  But the fight against them has been won.  Islam is growing all over the world, despite what the Russians have tried to do to quell; and I have done my very best and will do my very best to make sure the US will not suppress the movement toward a resurgence of Islam across the world for the good of those who believe.  I'm not crazy.  I respect and love you, the followers of Malcolm-X.

But the Egyptian military and the Turkish military will support any arrangement you Muslims draw together on.   Rely on them to give direction.  If you think a Caliphate will work then go to it.  But then, you've got Saudi Arabia and Katar against you.  They may not be part of the Arab Spring, but Jordan and the Hezbollah all over the world will do as you say for the sake of Muslim unity, I can assure you.

I don't care if they're Muslim "crazies" roaming about.  I told Israel shoot them and get rid of them; and I'm backing the Israeli effort tremendously.  But if the Arab Spring is to work with your input I want them to work with the  Hezbollah to end the violence in Syria.

I think if the Hezbollah will  contact the Christians in the countries contiguous to them, they'll be successful in ruling Lebanon..  I understand their dilemma--kids and residents being sacrificed because they die from the hands of  Assad.

But there is need for Muslim leadership to assert itself in Syria and in the West Bank, which actually is  under Israeli control.  Hezbollah and Lebanon being dominated by the Hezbollah only to the extent that they further the aims of the region's independence, giving Lebanon once again place for the Europeans to live a good life there. And, nearly every European wealthy wants to live there, even if under Hezbollah control! ( I had an opportunity to live in the region many years ago, but I've got to many international obligations.  And now I'm too old.)

Herein, I've offered my initial assessment of the Iraqi revolution.  You can take it for what's it's worth.  I believe in letting all factions have input, but there must be an end to violence; and an overthrow of the current Iraqi government.  The Iraqi legislature, with whom I talked, are pursuing this course of action, but it must happen soon, of course.   In light of the current situation in Iraq I  believe in the US military to straighten out the heads of people in the midst of the drug of euphoria; but short of that I advocate the US pull out and let the region become Muslim in spirit and in truth.

I'm glad to add that support for the US military is working wonders worldwide, regardless of what the military decides to do on behalf of the US.  That means the US citizen pays nothing; this is an international event.

The VA nonsense: your're going to die!

I like what my former pastor at Christ Church used to say:  face up to it; you're going to die! I don't attend the church anymore because they might be in jeopardy.

Anyway, the Brits and the Americans now are facing a terrible dilemma.  You tell the patient you're old and you don't have a chance in a million to survive to next year,or you tell them we'll put you on some list for a procedure or a doctor-recommended blah, blah, blah.  Now the patient and his family will opt for whatever gives them hope despite the odds. Or they're young and hope for a future when they don't have a chance, given the studies of people with their condition.  You got to brace up, man.

But the fact of the matter is I must live by reality.  I'm old and I know it.  I accept it.  But most people want that last glimmer of some procedure or some medical magic that doesn't exist.  So, the costs of medical care go up because they can't accept death as a real prospect in their life.  It's sad.

So, call me a messenger of death.  It's coming to every one of us.  I won't allow federal funds to be used to prolong life that has no chance of living.  Eat that;and enjoy the time you have with your loved one before he's (or, she's) gone.  There's too many that are younger and can survive for twenty to thirty years and have a good life, if only they could get the treatment the old selfishly want from the federal government.  England has the same problem.

The black genes have problems, so I've heard

I'll probably be considered a racist.  But I knew people who knew Malcom-X; and he honored me. 

The problem is that the world is turning to white.  If black guys would have fathers with white girls , it would be tremendously helpful.  All of Africa, is plagued with the complex--simply because medical science and the doctors, I've heard say. concur white genes are better genes.  The black genes are have dangers.

Alright, you say I don't know what I'm talking about.  But I'm more concerned about the black communities all over the world.  Please, I'd suggest you guys get together to find a solution that will be acceptable to black guys.  All I can do is to press on to integrate your kids with the rest.  I am terribly sorry.   

verified: 6/17/14.

Ukraine is saved!

I maybe have someone who is an old friend, Zbignieuw Brezezski, former National Security Adviser under Carter; and I asked his staff to research whether NATO need only defend countries committed to it.

His staff came back with the following facts:
1.  many members of NATO--I guess some 28 countries--are to be defended by NATO, even though many have not paid even a modicum 2% for membership fees.

2.  Importantly, NATO by its charter can support and defend countries committed to Western democracy even though they are not members of  NATO at the time.

Ukraine would fall under the proviso #2.  Let me explain that the whole entire Russian satellite configuration needs that support, because President Putin is seeking to realign them under his control; and Russian domination; and they don't want it ever again!!

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follow-up: 6/29/14

Yeah, it think what has enabled the Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia to make trading arrangements with EU countries is NATO as backup and protector. Thanks to the West; but particularly, to the US military!  

Iraqi federalism

It's true, Iraqi needs a true federal government.  That doesn't mean it should be split up into 3 parts, just have 3 parts of one nation..

The Elections in Egypt

This is a great time in the unfolding history of Egypt, led by its distinguished military.  I am elated that the former military chief el-Sissi has become President of Egypt. 

My I simply remind him that the fall of President Morsi was that he attempted to keep out of his government any opposition to the Muslim Brotherhood, and that he displayed an ineffectual array of managerial and administrative skills.

I know the military have grave doubts about the loyalty of the Muslim Brotherhood to Egypt, but I believe the Brotherhood must have a significant place in the government of President el-Sissi, nonetheless--for the sake of Egyptian unity.

Be that as it may, I want to enjoin President el-Sissi to take a major role in the affairs of Africa, given his great wisdom in the affairs of Egypt.  Africa needs his leadership!  The African Union needs his expertise!

I am certain the US will be of valuable assistance to the new President as he assumes his new role in Egypt.

The Elections in Europe

What these current elections show is not the "Tea Party" has something to offer, but that these current regimes need to update their technologies, Their computerized systems are outmoded.

But they can wait till the Obamacare takes effect.  I have great trust in the people in charge of Obamacare, in contrary to my feelings about the those in charge of the VA department. Or they can contact the USA military--Pentagon, who's in the midst of upgrading muchly their systems--which is my choice for contact; or their military that could contact the Pentagon.

But it's going to take trillions to get the European systems up to speed.  The way I suggest they do it is through the Banks.  They will have to take the brunt of the problem and pass it on gradually to the citizenry and the businesses.  There's no fault here, only their systems are 20 years behind the times.  It's the same old situation since the Medieval Renaissance, really.

 Let the USA military come up with the best solution. 

Obama addresses West Point

I am listening to Mark Levin's radio program in the background as I am writing.  He's talking about President Obama's address to West Point graduates. 

The military in the USA is about to change military strategy--the way things used to be in years past, in my opinion.  President Obama is speaking in the midst of the 21st Century of technological revolution.  It's not he who is the revolutionary, it is the technology.  No longer are local armories necessary, for example.  Get rid of your modern contraptions--that's what the counter-revolutionaries are suggesting.

The problem that Congressional legislators are faced with is that the technology is so quick, so incredibly different from the ways of the past, that they find it hard to explain to the voter how the world has changed without the citizenry knowing it!

Obamacare is simply applying technological advances to the medical field.  They cry about the VA  problem that's existed for years.  But what they don't see is that technology is being applied right at this moment to upgrade a decrepit and obsolete system.

Interestingly, in all the verbiage of Mark Levin, there's not one mention of technological applications.  I dare say he might think such a topic irrelevant. 

I remember Sao Paulo

It's been years but I've not forgotten.  What had happened is left to annals of history.  Many prisoners were killed and I couldn't stop it.  I had just been brought on to cure the economic woes of Brazil.

So, now I was brought in to help in the mass murderings in the USA.  Just less then 2 weeks ago.  And I had the solution--others came up with it, to..  It won't help the victims of the Santa Barbara incident, but I was very close to the solution of mass murderings; but they, the FBI who help in protecting me, may hate my guts..  Well, anyway, if it would assuage feelings, I did correct the situation of  mass murderings, I think, hopefully.

The Equality of Women world over

I was a recent member of a Bible Study Group at Christ Episcopal Church, Las Vegas.  I couldn't continue attending, but some of the women of the group thought I had something to offer in the fight for women's freedom for respect and dignity.

Years ago, women were in terrible subjugation.  The reasons for it were manifold.  1)  During their menstrual cycle they smell terrible!  Women knew it.  2)  Women died in childbirth frequently, leaving their loved ones to fen for themselves..  3) Women don't possess fighting prowess, in most cases.  They had to rely on men for protection.

So that what were men to think?  Were the women any different from the beasts that the men raised, e.g., cows, sheep?  They absolutely were driven to the conclusion that women were inferior to men;  I think; and they wrongly inferred that they could act towards women as they did toward their farm animals!

 What is more, Jewish men were inclined to think that God had given woman to him

But in the 1960s when all the psychological, medical data about women was evaluated, and the pill and other devices were readily available to women, the conceptual picture began to change--at least in Europe and the US.

No longer did women have to smell badly--you know, years ago, many years ago, women would be put in virtually an out-house during their menstrual cycle. No longer did it seem the case that women lacked in intelligence.  Indeed, today, business finds women have many positive skills lacking in their men counterparts.  No longer did it require that women be docile, while men be aggressive.  No longer did women have to submit to men to have children, even.

I submit men must give up their male aggressiveness.  It would diminish aggressive hostile acts..  If not, I submit, they'll be need for hormonal changes for the good of humanity!

Moreover, I submit that the world's social dynamics has changed forever by virtue of the great women's movement of the 1960s in the USA.

As to the Muslim countries, of, course,  men are still in control.  It will take time and much education for men to learn they can't dominate their female counterparts.  But the world has only so long to wait; and there are important cosmic factors that will mean the men could be subjugated, in my humble opinion.  Please note, men must change for the sake of the human race.. Well, that is one man's opinion!

Russia to supply natural gas, oil to Asia

The Russians are involved in very serious negotiations for a tri-decade delivery of oil and natural gas to the Asian countries--particularly, China, the Koreas, Taiwan, and Japan.  This I regard as a very positive step for Russia to be helpful on the international scene.

The issue is pipelines' placement.  Personally, I favor two major pipelines--one to China and the other to the southwest. Just one pipeline to service all those countries seems impractical.

China, I understand, is holding out for a 30-year agreement.  I hope they win out, because Asia needs an energy stability that Russia can meet.

My politician friends in China tell me that a written agreement is just so much paper--in the past, the two countries have endeavored to establish several permanent industrial arrangements, but with only a modicum of success..   Maybe this time it will come off tangibly, because the Russian people have patiently awaited their place in the Sun.

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P.S.  I've been listening to Congressmen voicing their opinions about the US infrastructure, the VA administration, the Libyan disaster; and governmental structures in general.  And, to a one, whether or not Republican or Democrat, they appear embarrassed that the systems of government are so old, even obsolete. Given the status of government systems mired in bureaucracy, Obamacare stands out as an incredible feat of the current Administration--how did Obama get it through Congress? 

The VA administration was never meant to handle the number of patients returning from battle--never knew the psychological conditions that currently afflict returning soldiers.  We know that bridges and highways are so dated in this country compared to say, Indonesia.  I remember friends in DC urging me to relocate to Southwest Asia and put out of sight these old USA cities, e.g.,  Detroit over the years.

We're living through profound universal political and social changes.

Look at the Middle East.  Finally, the power structures of the last hundred years are being cast aside.  It's meant incredible upheaval--but I believe nothing but good will emerge.  Look at the breakup of the Soviet Union and the rise of federalism across Europe and into Asia.  True, Putin is hoping to bring back elements of the Empire, but he must know, even in his heart of hearts, that all he can do is save some aspects of the old.

Moreover, Putin thinks, apparently, he came up with a genius idea of drilling for oil and gas and making it the central trade of Russia.  I was in Russia in the late 1980s and this idea was extant--several Russians advocating it.  I couldn't take sides on the issue of how Russia should develop its resources--you will recall the many Five Year Plans.  But Putin's no genius here--the concept was envisioned and slated to become operative.

Well, the project of re-building American infrastructure, especially in light of global warming, is one of major proportions for the Century.

Nigerian Military welcomes US military support

I have just been informed that the Nigerian Military and the US military have joined forces to look for the missing abducted girls.  You may know that Boko Haram has been abducting young girls for their military generals over the years, but it has never made the headlines.

Well, I have the assurance that I can return to El Paso, Fort Bliss ties, if need be.  So, I'm a bit bold.  I really like El Paso.

The issue is to make Nigeria the key nation on the African Continent asap.  Toward that end, I think the Nigerian government will cooperate.  They are corrupt, tremendously so; but they contend they don't have the military numbers to deal with the problems in the north of insurrection. .

Let me explain why Nigeria is so important.  Important, because of oil, YES.  And also. the division between Muslims and Christians is just about 50-50.  So, if the peoples of Nigeria can live in harmony, it will send a message around the world that there is no problem--Christians, Jews, and Muslims can get along altogether--which I know to be the case, but hasn't been shown yet.  I'm working on it!

Well, I've been in touch with the US Military, Pentagon, just recently.  And, I know we think alike.  However, it's imperative that the Nigerian Military work through the Egyptian Military, because they know how things are in 3rd World Countries and the US military really isn't that familiar.

This item is the first composed interactively.  I am a major player in globalization and have backing from financiers in Germany.  So, it is unfortunate when I say that the US military isn't enough.  The Egyptian military, with whom I may have connections, must be brought in.  I've got to have expert knowledge and greater experience with those who deal with Third World Countries.

Nevertheless, I believe that the US military will take this criticism as a learning experience, from which it will grow ever more in strength and vitality.  I would expect a department dealing with solely poor, indigent nations would address itself to how to handle strife in such countries, drawing upon those military who have had much experience in such situations.

The US needs new oil rr tankers fast!

I've received information that it will take 400,000 new oil tanker cars to haul oil around the country.

The number is so high because I understand, but I won't confirm, that the old tankers now in use to haul oil can't be retrofitted successfully.  This means that the US can't be the only source for financing the new tankers.  It's going to take Chinese wealth and that of the EU to bring hauling oil around the US up to speed.  If these old tankers continue to be used, the US cities will go up in flames--at least some of them will!

And the race between the EU and the newly espoused Soviet Union is on that will lead to the very bottom of financial ruin for one of them..

Homosexual relationships need community support

Through that great communications network Netflix I've been recently watching a number of movies produced by homosexual groups, but the one movie that has impressed me the most was one produced by the Lesbian community here in the US named Inescapable.

As far back as to my days teaching at the College of Dupage, Glen Ellyn, Illinois in the mid-1970s, I was concerned with the plight of the homosexuals in the US.  I sponsored a humanities club, some sessions of which were devoted to the issue of homosexual tolerance among the populace.  But I didn't then realize how homosexuals could live in acceptance.

What has clearly become evident through court action over the recent years, and demonstrated in literature and on the screen, is that acceptance by society of homosexuals requires that the rights of homosexuals be invoked within the community for pensions, death benefits, and health care; etc.; and also for the raising of children, many of  whom might otherwise be abandoned in the streets as occurring in Nigeria and in the several Central American countries, including Guatemala; and South American countries, where homeless kids are abandoned and forced to be on their own today as happened in England no later than two centuries ago.  There's no obvious reason why homosexuals would not make good, God-fearing parents!  In other words, it's essential that governments recognize homosexual marriage.

Else, homosexuals are forced into situations where they act out of panic, confused about who they can be---not who they are--but what stability they have a right to gain in order to live in harmony with others in society.

Why I ruled against Australia

I ruled against Australia; and the New Zealanders want to know why.

The Australians know why, but evidently they won't share the information with their English compatriots.

Here's the plain facts:

1.  The Australians hate the local peoples who were there before them.  And they absolutely hate the blacks.

2,  They don't want anything to deal with the Muslims who are to the North of them. Outrageous.  You think you can get away with this?

3.  Thirdly, there's enormous favoritism to England--who threw you out!  I'm also holding England accountable.

I could go on and on.  Suffice to say, Australia is one sick psychological mess.   

P.S.  In case an Australian hasn't looked out his window recently, the land is going under water and will lose up to 1/3 its mass due to global warming.  I'd go biking instead down there!  Cheerio!

I turned down Australia.

I am now able to express myself!  It's happened over 26 years of saying nothing.

Well, the first thing I did because I can tell the world is to say I've I instituted Indonesia as the regional head of the Southwest quarter, over the appeals of Australia.  Australia has not interests of the region.  They're contending, I ruled on the basis of religion.  But I've got my informational networks and that doesn't work.  Australia you must be regional all else.  Forget  you're Christian and forget you're sponsored by England.  I love both Christian and Muslim!  And I will not tolerate you; and I will take steps to debilitate your economy, if you try to come to me and to the  global project again.

Nigeria to become a great nation

There are so many problems with Nigeria.  But they have oil; and through the years I've met leaders who are dedicated to end the corruption and internal strife, starting when I was at University of Chicago where they were receiving their education in the mid-1970s. .  It takes time, but there are opportunities for the growth of this great nation that must be seized.

The US military is just entering the Nigerian mess  They are sharing information about what happened to the some hundreds of girls taken out of the country apparently to be sold.  But I am hopeful the Nigerian government will let them do more to establish stability in a nation needed for African development.

It takes time, but progress is being made.  There are promising signs.  Praise God the US is going to help find the abducted girls.

Israeli assurance about Hamas

I was on one of my trips back to Washington, DC  about 6 or so years ago, and in DC (which I can't seem to get back to despite good health coverage!) I met with people who knew the Hamas of Palestine.  At the time there were two Hamas groups--the fighters and belligerent Muslims up in Damascus and another Hamas group dedicated to do good will for the Palestinians.  I encouraged the Palestinian group to become political--they were not at the time, simply doing works of charity.  That has worked out very well, in my opinion--the Palestinian Hamas are philanthropic despite what aggressive acts they allow the other Hamas groups to do on their land.  Israel should protect itself from the radical aggressive groups in Hamas who wish evil on the entire Middle East--not just Israel!  We've got the same situation in Lebanon.  There is one group, pro-Lebanonese, and another very hostile element, siding with the Syrian Assad government..

Iran is suffering from the same divisiveness, too.  There's a religious, cultivated group, and another hostile to anything but Muslim, etc. 

I believe the only way to resolve the political problems these several countries confront in the Middle East is by encouraging the right and discouraging the evil within these countries, so as to preserve world peace.  Israel must at all times assert itself out of self-protection regardless of the outcomes in these nearby nations. I heartily approve of the recent raids made by Israel in the area.

     

The EU is being blackmailed! Any country care?

Today's headline about a scourge occurring in East Ukraine to rid the entire country of Western influence--taking hostages, spreading lies about the Kiev government, sending Russian jet planes overhead--is just a foretaste of what will happen if the EU does nothing.  It is German Chancellor Merkel who is giving Russia the ok to do what it wants to the Ukraine, I believe; and I love the Germans and feel the Chancellor has done a lot of good for the EU. Be it noted, that Germany has its own direct oil pipeline from Russia under the sea.

But there is no end to Russian aggressive moves.  It has to be blocked now, or Russia will do more and more to make the EU helpless.  The Russian economy is suffering, but the aggression continues.  Apparently, no EU country is aware of Russia's hatred of the EU, even more than its hatred of NATO.  I am of the opinion that Russia will do everything it can to force the EU to its knees.  Freezing winters are just one threat it could very easily carry out.

Mere sanctions against persons living in Russia is really a joke in the Russian people's eyes.  Sector sanctions could well put an end to the current aggressive drive by Russia.  But it is a political risk; a case of who loses most first.  The first to be rendered helpless, loses to the real victor!

In my estimation, knowing Russia as I do, the Russian government is bluffing.  Russia will lose out first; and the EU will be declared the victor, if the EU block but resists Russia's threats and aggressive actions against the Ukraine, initially, then if no retaliatory steps from the EU are taken seriously in Russia, onto x or y country, and ultimately, to the very existence of the EU itself.  I don't believe Russia will stop short of establishing its supremacy in Eastern Europe.  The stakes are that high for Russia.  

My recent experiences with the Episcopal Church

Oh, I remember alright, because it's not that long ago!

In Washington, DC.  Everytime I went to the National Cathedral, I felt at home.  However, the clergy at the Cathedral bid such a person as I goodbye and pointed to St. Albans on the property as a possibility for membership or regular attendance.  At National they're evidently too called to do greater things than ministering to the poor, such as offering their services to the nation rather than to God..  They do support a marvelous thrift shop nearby, but they try to not let on to anyone that they do so.

You know that reminds me of the Episcopal Cathedral in Honolulu.  They don't let on that they support two services:  one regular on Sunday morning for the rich and famous and another for the poor and outcast next door, usually administered to by a Catholic Priest with a sense of humor:  you need one when you see that while the Cathedral dispenses food and clothing for the poor after church services  they don't provide anyplace for the poor to eat it nor sit down.  Get on with you, seems their attitude! But that is all too typical:  fulfilling the Christian duties while treating the poor as social pariahs, whose only religious service is next door. Many rich congregations so treat the poor: don't let on to the rich that they're having anything to do with the poor except as low-class individuals to be kept away from the rest. .Do the poor have leprosy?  Perhaps that justifies the Episcopal Cathedral's Clergy in Honolulu's low opinion of the poor.

Well, everywhere I go, I want to be an Episcopalian, because I love the Eucharist service and enjoy the many members' companionship in the worship of God.  And I don't believe in celibacy.  However, I know that the Episcopal Churches, by and large, cater to the wealthy and just doesn't want poor people around wherever the rich are!  Some places do.  I lived in Los Angeles and went to St. James, when the now Bishop Smith of Arizona was Rector; and I think he was ashamed by the treatment I was being met with by the church Elders, one of whom pressed hard that I should look for another congregation to join.  Well, I did after Father Kirk Smith left to become Bishop..  But where I had to go, they weren't Episcopalians.  It was the International Dream Church of Los Angeles, Assembly of God. There, I missed the Eucharist.  So I vowed, I would just not tell anyone I was regularly attending someplace else if I would show up for an Episcopalian Eucharist.

But I'm not that religious to keep traveling hither and yon just for the Eucharist and Christian fellowship.  I think I'm at home here in Vegas, at least for the time being.  I attend Christ Church, Episcopalian; and the clergy seem dedicated to do God's bidding.  But I'm terribly suspicious of the Episcopalians--too many of the membership are after wealth and social standing to permit the poor at a pew seat among them. You know the Orthodox Jews still insist on a cost for a pew seat during Temple Service.  Woe, if you're Jewish and poor!    Woe if you're Episcopalian and poor!

Addendum (4/12/14):

I've heard from certain administrators at National Cathedral today.  They wanted me to make an addendum and here it is.

I had several times tried to re-locate from San Francisco to Santa Barbara with encouragement from my contacts in San Francisco.  What I found was that the local government was in the process of getting rid of the poor from downtown, where I initially was welcomed.  In one of my attempts to settle there, I ended up at the shelter, another time at the Mission shelter; and yet another time befriended by the Santa Barbara police--a great bunch.. 

Fundamentally, I had no support from the clergy in Santa Barbara (Episcopalian) that I tried to work with there.  Father Asman, a nice guy, really should be retired, if he hasn't taken that step already.  I did have support from a woman in the Bible Class I attended in one of my trips to that city, and she garnered together the Episcopalian sisterhood living up in the hills.  Well, Trinity Church downtown was doing its own thing; and was not helpful in making the idea real.

Then, in Washington, DC, I attended  St. Stephen's in Columbia Heights, the several times I tried to relocate there.  I very much enjoyed the lawyer whom I would talk with before the Sunday Forum.  A terrific spirit!  However, the Priest was a transplant from North Carolina, having his own set of  personal problems.  (I use the term "transplant" advisedly!)  It would have taken his cooperation to get me into the row of housing adjacent to the Church. He was friendly, only psychologically distant.  And there was Russian housing in the same block, but nothing.

So, wealth matters to the Episcopalian clergy; and I have nothing.  Thanks be to God for the Social Services of Clark County here in Vegas, or I'd probably be on my way back to El Paso--which is really a great place to retire to--or still, might have to contemplate returning to in October. .  As I say, the reason I'd like to remain in the Episcopalian denomination is because of the Eucharist service I enjoy so much celebrating.

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To make this a more complete account.  Here are some additions, not quite so disgusting to report.
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I attended Grace Cathedral and re-dedicated my life under Bishop Swig, who probably is not living today.  I heard from Father Bob McNull here in Vegas that Dean Alan Jones died.  He was a friend, not close, but I met him several times when he had his Internet Forum program; and I knew his wife through him.  He was just dating her then.  I became integrated as a member there while living in a fine homeless shelter that the former Mayor of San Francisco Brown had supported.  I met Brown there on more than one occasion. because several years earlier I worked for the Democratic campaign office, interacting with the great Congresswoman from California, Nancy Pelosi.  (She's a bit helter-skelter, and I believe that's what has cost the Democrats the Congress.)  The shelter was the greatest I ever was in, as shelters go!  I had fun that year.

Then, I had a horrible experience at the Cathedral in downtown Omaha, with some interim woman Priest, who was nice but way over her head.  The Elders really controlled that church; and I hope it is not wrecked today.  Previously, when I was in Omaha, there was a wonderful Priest who then retired; and we have several congenial conversations.

I have responsibilities that direct where I can live.  El Paso is on the list of such places.  And, there's a wonderful Anglican church in the downtown that has a deeply devout Christian as its assistant Rector, an older man than the Priest-Rector.  I understand he does a lot of the administrative stuff for the Church.  They just are a great crew of believers with a school next door to educate in Christian values.  If I go back any time soon, I would hope their Church would become part of the US Episcopal Communion (once again).

What I've done for the years since 1995,when I left San Francisco where I lived since 1990, is to travel the country, enjoying each place I lived at for a time; and might then return to. I even went back to San Francisco. 

But the one place I could not find an Episcopal Church to go regularly to was Reno.  The downtown Episcopal church I found artificial, catering to the old, having little regard for Christian outreach or Christian values.  I'm not fond of heathen teachings in a Christian church, even Episcopalian.  So in Reno, I didn't attend any church regularly.  But I had serious problems dealing with international world relations the times I was there, so I don't know much about how churches are in the area. 








    

Catholic Worker in Los Angeles

When I lived in Los Angeles, I became familiar with the Catholic Worker organization, Dorothy Day founder.  They serve food on Sixth Street in downtown Los Angeles Skid Row for the poor and the needy.  I had already known about Dorothy Day and some years before, quoted in my World Religions Classes from her writings.

When I tried upon several different occasions to relocate to Washington, DC  I reminded myself that the Catholic Worker had a house there, but I never did get to visit it.

It was they who informed me of the work of Cardinal Mahoney.  When I visited China, upon different instances, I did what I could to end the persecution of Catholics; and met with moderate success, I think.  One must judge by the degree of persecution then and now, of course. 

In any event, I want to say that the Catholic Worker organization in Los Angeles I knew was headed by a husband and wife team, whom I got to know over the years--the wife especially. This group is so wise in everyday matters,  I still follow their advice in my own health care plan.  These people have sage advice indeed on how to live the practical Christian life!

They're only so great in L.A.

My Final Question on the Middle East

I've been asked for my solution to problems in the Middle East.  Here they are; and nobody will agree with them!

--On Israel and the Palestinians.  To my mind there's only one solution.  They must live together in Israel.  The boundaries of Israel extend to the very end of the Egypt country.  Israel knows it controls every area in Palestine though for reasons for internal unity, it wants to give some other impression. 

Olmert is right:  the Palestinians must live in harmony with the Israelites.  Of course, the various organizations of the Palestinians must group together as one.  I can't stand Abbas or the PLO; but if the Hamas likes them, so be it.  But be sure, no be two states--no money; and would be the source of constant friction between Israelis and Muslims.

In Lebanon, the Hezbollah is critically divided.  In the end the faction supporting the Syrian dictatorship will lose out in favor of a stronger Lebanonese, nationalistic group.

At this point, one may wonder what I think of the State Department.  I think they're trying hard to do what is impossible.  Trying to get nations to agree with one another when State Department members don't even have security clearance is asking too much of them. They don't really know what's going on; it's an absurd position they're in.

--Now let's go to Syria.  At this juncture, there's no option but to remove Assad.  The Russian-Syria alliance is causing disruption in the Middle-East.  Putin is laughing at the fact that nobody will take him on--either in Russia, the Ukraine or Syria.  Iran is simply a pawn, weary of war and internal hankering--it is out of it.  I believe any major power ask of it what it wants; or pressure it with exorbitant demands.

--On to Egypt.  The military is a major force for peace in the country.  I've taken a lot of ideas from the Egyptian military--though the military does not appear to be respected here in the USA.  Bet they somehow have to allow the Muslim Brotherhood to be a major force in the new government.  I know the Egyptian government and military hate the Black Muslim Brotherhood but the latter must learn from the former!

--Onto Iran itself.  The country is struggling because of the sanctions.   However, due to current incredible support from other Muslim nations in the region, it is becoming the major power in the Middle East.  If the US wants to wedge into its power network, stand with it now!

--I've  named this item "the Final Question" because I must withdraw from any further discussion on  issues in the Middle East.  The Middle East is a well-worn topic.  I've got too many items, right now, I must deal with for world peace. Trust the US Military!

When Does Russia Run Away?

Currently, Russia is occupying the Crimea, Ukraine.  But what would it take for Russia to run away?

I recall that Russia was in Afghanistan--and doing some good there.  I recall some long distance conversations with Russians, when I had already returned to the US from having helped with their new Constitution.  I was begging them not to leave Afghanistan, because their leaving would cause havoc in the land.  I think they replied with stories about their problems: "You don't know what it means for the Soviet military to lose so many helicopters!"

Well, it's been years since then, but now the Russians are on the move---into the Ukraine.  They say the Ukrainian language is but one of many languages in the area; but the Russian language should be the dominant.  They say Crimeans are really Tartars--true Russians.  Russia is to be forever their homeland; and maybe that of all of the Ukraine, too.

Ah, these new ambitions cast in the backdrop of  historical fond remembrances occurring in a barroom where shots of vodka are consumed by those who are drunk with the thought of political power.  But the political issue is that the Russian Empire collapsed under its own weight of under-production and ethnic strife.  It became bankrupt, even as the Ukraine is today.  The political issue is that there were some courageous Russians who realized that this is not the day of Empire-building and sought to re-constitute an assemblage of industrial nexus that would produce goods and services for the good of what would now be a Federation of Independent States as well as to be exported to other geographic areas.  The fact of the matter is that there was low productivity among the factories and business groups because of ethnic divisions and in-fighting.  And this is what Russia is seeking to impose upon the its geographic region all over again.

So, what would cause Russia to run away from Crimea?  If possible, a dose of reality-checking.  What Russia offers to its people under the present regime is nothing but what has been tried and failed under the old Soviet Union. Be it noted that a place in the sun is to be awarded a nation by concrete figures and facts of enormous growth and productivity.  Promising, there is rising in Russia today a technocratic cadre who envision a new place, a prominent place for Russia in the world.  It has nothing to do with remembrances of well-worn historical themes, but constitutes a steadfast push to a new reality of technological advance that those so dedicated are boldly and aggressively  undertaking, though not in a barroom where memories are blurred by booze..

What would it take for Russia to run away from Crimea? A dose of reality as a curative from its hangover, to be sure..  And along with the cure, a forward-looking plodding toward some new vision of what Russia can offer to the world--but it won't include a harkening back to what has already been shown obsolete and outmoded as a Model T Ford, namely, the Russian Empire!















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Sanctions imposed on Russia should be effective!

I understand that Russia must make $70 a barrel in order to remain solvent.  Russia needs money!.

I understand, too, that there's a rumble among certain political factions such that, if Russia continues an aggressive policy, it will lead to an exodus of a significant number of Russians from Russia.  

I further understand that many several independent states in the Russian Federation are hostile to the expansion of the Russian state.

There is, after all, a vigorous fractious polity in the Russian Federation, today.

Iraq's Wish-list for a new constitution

Aired on C-Span last night, the Iraqi legislator Usama al-Nujayfi urged his country to come up with a new constitution.  He enumerated a wish-list--much as is used by realtors in searching for a house for their clients--of what he wants in the newly envisioned document.

Surprising to me, his wish-list contained the salient features of the current constitution of the Russian Federation!

If everything could be worked out, I should like to be on its design team!  JLO