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Subj: We Are So Screwed . . .
Dear BuzzFlash,
If we were at all concerned about the so-called "credibility" of these inspections, we never would have called this meeting. For appearances sake, this is just stupid.
"Hans, we suggest you write this in your report..."
This country is officially now being run by a dangerous cabal of right-wing idiots. When babies start dying in shopping malls, it will be as a direct result of how we "responded" to terrorism.
I miss Bill. Praise God and Pass the Gas Masks.
jj.
http://www.cnn.com/2003/WORLD/meast/01/14/sproject.irq.blix/index.html
Subj: Colin has joined the Dark Side
never in our history have we had a leader who WANTED to take us to war. that has lead to strange, surreal events coming at us almost daily.
the latest are the new bin Laden tapes. colin powell, testifying before the Senate Budgetary Committee, first let it be known that the Al Jazeera network was about to play a new recording from the al Qaeda leader. the director of the CIA was sitting right there beside Powell at the desk. this was the FIRST he knew of the tape.
now, when the administration has taken us to Code Orange, supposedly based on CIA/FBI assessments of 'increasing chatter', how come it is the nation's top spy knows nothing about a new tape from our real Number One enemy?
i say 'supposedly' because there is a report on today's CapitolHillBlue website quoting high level officials within both the CIA and FBI to the effect that this elevated danger alert came as a result of a "political decision".
well, that really should be obvious to any reasonably observant cynic, shouldn't it? on the one hand, the director of the FBI tells us to all go out and buy plastic sheeting and duct tape to put over our windows to keep out the poison gas. on the other hand, we're told to go about our daily lives.
the corporate media naturally reports both statements, "an attack is coming, cover your ass, but don't worry, be happy", then doesn't so much as raise an eyebrow or ask a probing question before moving on to an in-depth investigative report on Phil Spector's bi-polar disorder.
of course they do. and here's where it really gets dark. Colin Powell told us yesterday that the new bin Laden statement clearly established a connection between himself and Saddam. The connection between the terrorists who attacked us on 9/11 and Hussein "can no longer be looked away from and ignored.”
later in the day, the full translation of the bin Laden statement come out and we read that Osama again condemns Saddam, calls him a 'socialist' and says "the taking of his blood would be acceptable." he called on the Iraqi people and all Muslims, all billion of them, to rise up against both American aggression and against the infidel Saddam Hussein.
now comes a real-time example of the descending darkness, the partnership of mass media in misleading Americans. shortly after the translation of the tape came out, the report on the MSNBC.com website included this sentence: "At the same time, the message also called on Iraqis to rise up and oust Iraqi President Saddam Hussein, who is a secular leader."
then, twenty minutes later the story was reposted. that sentence was removed and replaced with this one: "The taped statement reflected Saddam, a secular leader, but made it clear that Saddam was not the immediate target."
why the re-write, you may ask yourself. you are not yet a conspiracy theorist? well, in this age you certainly should be. NBC is owned by General Electric. GE is one of our largest defense contractors. GE will make a fortune off the war in two ways. more manufacturing of bombs and war makes for great TV ratings, which makes for higher advertising rates.
the immorality of this administration is enhanced, enabled and empowered by the complicity of our amoral corporate media.
right now, Powell's son Michael is head of the FCC. he is pushing hard for further deregulation. if he succeeds, and chances are he will, then all of our broadcast and print media will soon be under the control of five, or maybe fewer, monster corporations. the free press, the bastion of liberty and democracy, will be no more.
meanwhile, one patriot within the justice department has leaked the proposal for the Patriot II act. john ashcroft is working on a plan for new legislation that would allow him and the president to strip Americans of their citizenship. you'd better start speaking up loudly now, fellow citizens. keep quite much longer and you'll never be allowed to speak again.
Steve Warren
A Letter to the People
I have just read a transcript of the recent bin Laden tape on the Washington Post. Having read the contents of the tape, it is fairly safe to say that bin Laden does not ally himself with Saddam Hussein. I repeat bin Laden does not support the Baath party regime.
Bush and Co. are going to repeatedly try to tell you, the people, that the tape speaks of a partnership between Iraq and Al-Qaeda. This claim is false. The partnership of terror that the Bushites have already spoken of in the past remains fictitious.
This does not prevent the fact Bush and Co are going no doubt to attempt to use this imaginary partnership as a pretext for war and make all of you Americans and non-Americans scared-so-shitless that you capitulate to Bush and Co's strategy of resolving the tensions in the Middle East. This strategy will serve to perpetuate and proliferate terror not mitigate or eliminate it.
As in other past communiques, Bin laden does not ally the Al-Qaeda cause with the Hussein regime, but rather with the Iraqi people, more specifically Iraqi Muslims. He advocates Iraqi Muslim resistance to any attacks by the United States on the Iraq, and he offers them advice on ways of resisting what he calls, in his typical religious rhetoric, "infidels".
Being a politician, bin Laden's declaration is tactical and strategic. Like investigative journalist, Richard Falk has stated, bin Laden desires a clash of civilizations. This recorded and internationally disseminated statement was surely envisioned and enacted as part of this grand politico-metaphysical scheme. In this light, one can deduce that bin Laden is hoping that this declaration provokes a War in the Middle East. If the US does go to war, in a perverse, contradictory, and tragi-comical way the US will be following Bin Laden's battlefield orders.
You, the people, must continue or begin to resist uni-lateralism of any sort. The global symbolic network is still in need of much transformation.
Take care,
Covell Meyskens
Paris, France
I am an American living, studying political and ethical philosophy, teaching English in Paris, France, while at the same time keeping up with the international French and English press. Last year, I graduated from the University of California at Santa Cruz with a degree in philosophy with in emphasis in 19th and 20th French and German philosophy as well as contemporary cultural theory. In addition, I am currently writing for a political 'zine out of Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Subj: China's Opposition to Invasion of Iraq
Dear Buzz,
Now that China, with its Security Council veto, has joined Russia in opposing Incurious George's Not-So-Excellent Adventure in Iraq, can we expect Donald Rumsfeld to tell us that Russia and China only represent the "old" Asia?
Just wondering,
Jon Krampner
Subj: Duct Tape
Dear BuzzFlash,
We need to find which manufacturer of duct tape and plastic window covering donated BIG BUCK$ to the Bush/Cheney campaign. They just got their payback. Who knew Osama would be so obliging to the King George II administration. Just when they need it most, up pops Osama w/ a tape linking himself and Iraq. Amazing!
Molly Merlot
Subj: Al Qaeda Cells in the U.S.
Dear Buzz,
Tom Ridge warns of possible terrorist attacks by Al Qaeda cells in the United States, while Bush and Rumsfeld deploy the 101st Airborne and the National Guard by the thousands in Iraq.
Don't you feel safer already? Stock up on that duct tape!
Nancy Lynn
Nagy (TN)
Impeach
the Incompetent!
http://www.votetoimpeach.org
Subj: Governor George Pataki's Fax Numbers.
Dear Buzz,
This morning, I wanted to send a fax to Governor Pataki's office and his aid said it is not available to the public. WHAT? Constituents are not allowed his fax number to voice their concerns? Even those who voted for him? Well, I came upon his fax numbers from a source, and they are, (518) 486-9749 and (212) 681-4595. Most elected leaders do give out this information, but again the GOP does not want to hear from the little people, only the rich. Could you post these numbers on your site? Especially, when Governor Pataki stated this in regards to Senator Schumer filibustering Miguel Estrada, "Those on the left who talk about immigrants, who talk about America being an inclusive society, are blocking him because he may not fit their political ideology," What I think he is attempting to do here is play the immigrant card, BuzzFlash. Schumer is filibustering only because he wants full release of all the information they need for an informed vote. Not out of any anti immigrant reaction. Below is my letter to Governor Pataki, which I did fax to him.
Governor
George E. Pataki
State Capitol
Albany, NY 12224
Phone: (518) 474-8390
Fax Numbers: (518) 486-9749, (212) 681-4595
To Governor George E. Pataki,
February 12, 2003
I took great umbrage at your hypocritical remarks directed at Senator Charles Schumer filibustering any confirmation regarding Miguel Estrada. Where you went onto say as quoted in the New York Post, "Those on the left who talk about immigrants, who talk about America being an inclusive society, are blocking him because he may not fit their political ideology," Oh give it a rest, Governor. You would do the same thing in his position in regards to any nominee of the liberal persuasion if you were a GOP senator in our United States Senate. Why should Senator Charles Schumer confirm a person who is of the opposite political persuasion if he feels his policies were wrong? He was not elected to rubberstamp, but to lead with his convictions. Yes, we are an inclusive party, but we have the right to our political ideals, and to stick by them is something to be heralded.
As reported by Newsday last week, you made many abusive cuts to our seniors. So, we have the right to state that you are anti seniors. Because it is true, and not misleading as your attack upon Senator Charles Schumer. According to Newsday, you are going to cut the state's Office of Aging by 9 percent. I am sure that our seniors would have loved that information before casting their votes in November. No, you held back this fact from them. Can we spread information out there that the GOP and you are anti aging? We sure can, because we have the facts not innuendos to prove it.
According to the GothamGazette.com titled, "Immigrant Construction Workers" which ran in a November 26, 2001 edition, Senator Charles Schumer was quoted as saying in regards to the high incidents of deaths amongst immigrants, "When they hear it's an immigrant situation, they are less likely to get involved," He then went on to say, "My guess is that OSHA's more involved in unionized shops because the shop steward and the union teaches people how to reach OSHA and what OSHA is. If you ask most immigrants, they wouldn't even know what OSHA was."
In a letter addressed to Health and Human Services Director Tommy Thompson, Senator Schumer went on to say referring to cuts to LIHEAP Block Grant, "Now is definitely not the time to take away heating assistance from thousands of needy Americans. People are struggling to put food on the table, let alone pay for heating. It is vital that these cuts be restored to ensure that everyone who needs this important help will be able to receive it." Many of these needy people include immigrants, Governor Pataki. So, which party has left these immigrants truly out of the American way? It is your party, Governor. Immigrants have suffered so much under this Republican administration.
All we hear from the GOP lately in regards to things that truly matter to the American people are cuts, cuts, cuts, then again more cuts. While the spending goes on unchecked in Washington DC, because your party was unwilling to really tell the American electorate your intentions before the November elections. Perhaps if you had come clean, we could have stopped this gluttonous spending frenzy, and put our money where it truly matters. Into truly helping our immigrants, seniors and so many more who have been disenfranchised all too long by your party.
Just because Miguel Estrada is of Hispanic decent does not necessarily mean he is qualified to sit on the bench. Oh, and Governor, we too will remind the voters and those who are Hispanic decent, and our seniors next year, which party truly left them behind in words and in deed. We might even learn from you by spreading disinformation.
Regards,
Mary MacElveen
Sound
Beach, NY
Subj: Wyden Amendment on TIA
Dear BuzzFlash,
Please read the entire Wyden amendment! In this amendment Wyden says the president can avoid the effects by, in writing, state that it would not be practicable to comply and that this non-compliance is in the interest of the national security.
Go figure, is that why the amendment passed by a voice vote?
Having a congressperson double speak can lead to the trail of the lemmings for us interested in protecting this country.
-jlm
Subj: Condi Meets with Hans Blix?!
Dear Buzz,
I heard a report on the news on the way to work this morning that in an "unprecedented" move Condi Rice had a "meeting" with Hans Blix yesterday or today just before he meets with Iraq and issues his latest report, in which she pressured him to "not sugar-coat" his report to the UN. Basically telling Hans what he could write in his report...
Basically this is big news. If true, this would remove any shred of credibility from the UN that remains, yet I have not been able to find it ANYWHERE on the internet this morning.
What is the scoop?! jj.
Subj: Denial of Uniter For Peace.Org's February 15th Permit
Dear Editor,
It is a sad day in American history when the greatest city in the world denies the most basic of our Constitutional Rights (free speech and assembly) on the most flimsiest of pretenses.
As NYers, we all are clearly aware that Mayor Bloomberg bought his 2001 election with $65 million of his own money. Does this also give the mayor the right to block 100,000s of NYers their basic constitutional right to assembly and free speech? The mayor would leave to you to believe that answer to that question is the affirmative. Clearly the press has taken all the lies and distortions by the Bush Administration at face value and disseminated these lies as "truth." Yet despite the near black out of opposition opinion in the press, an anti-war movement has grown like wildfire in this country. The anti-war rally on February 15th will not be televised by the major networks (except, maybe, CSPAN). The major networks are no longer required to meet any public service requirements. So the only means for anti-war protesters to get their message out is to be physically seen by their fellow NYers.
This is the real reason for Mayor Bloomberg's denial of the protest march's permit. This pattern has been repeated throughout America by Mr. Bloomberg's fellow anti-democratic mayors. Designated 1st Amendment Zones for protestors are, by definition, anti-constitutional. We are not talking about the threat of pro-lifers who physically intimidate pregnant women to stop them from getting abortions. We are talking about average American citizens who simply want their voices to be heard by their fellow Americans. There is no where in the Constitution that gives this right exclusively to the mass media. In fact, the framers of the Constitution clearly warned of the tyranny of the press.
In conclusion, the mayor's denial of this permit is the most sinister and evil thing that a mayor can do to destroy the basic fabric of society -- the right of free speech and assembly.
Sincerely,
Delbert Franklin
Dear BuzzFlash,
Bush's Jobs Program will start possibly as early as this weekend with new threats from Al-Qaida. With the lack of protection he is supporting by denying any funds we can expect to have more casualties from terrorist attacks. An attack resulting in approximately 300 dead will open the job market for 300 job seekers. An attack in Iraq could leave as many as thousands of soldiers dead, some of which are reservist who hold civilian jobs. Possible job openings of maybe 500 or more for job seekers. Cuts to the budget that help the poor by keeping heat on, medication for Aids patients and a variety of other programs will ultimately result in a rise in deaths, many of whom hold down jobs at this time. Possible job openings could range from 50,000 to over 100,000 for job seekers. So when he says he won't rest until there is a job for anyone seeking one, rest assured he is working diligently in that promise.
Maureen Westfall
Subj: Beware of False Prophets
Dear Buzz,
Bush's extensive use of Christian rhetoric and frequent invocation of Christ's name to advance his anti-Christian policies remind me of a Bible passage...
Matthew 24:3 -24:13
And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?
And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man shall deceive you.
For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places. All these are the beginning of sorrows.
Then shall they deliver you to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake.
And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
Matthew 24:23
Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not
For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall shew geat signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.
Dave Min
Subj: Filibuster
Buzz-
Thanks for all your comments about the Democrats staying the course on the filibuster.
If they can't stay the course on Estrada, I have to wonder if there is ANY issue the Democrats are willing to fight for to the end. I, like you, have my doubts....
MEB
Re: Bill O'Reilly, Rush Limbaugh, et al.
"Rudeness is better than any argument; it totally eclipses intellect." - Schopenhauer
Since O'Reilly, Limbaugh and their ilk have no intellect, rudeness is their only recourse. The more things change, the more they stay the same.
Lois Frederiksen
Round
Lake, NY
Subj: Coincidence? I Think Not!
Dear BuzzFlash,
Last night, I caught a few minutes of some new talk show...sorry, don't know who it was, but he followed Koppel. TalkShow Guy offered a brilliant observation...
He had the terror-alert color-chart and a bag of skittles [tropical?]. Opened the bag, poured its contents onto his desk -- hold and below, if the colors aren't EXACTLY the same!
Never having had a skittle, myself, I could hardly have known. Having now seen it with mine own eyes -- does it not make perfect sense??? Please, spare us another residential sugar rush...
Thoroughly Convinced,
vcz
Subj: Sen. Stabenow LISTS repub. DELAYS and STONEWALLS of Dem. judicial nominees past... c-span live...
Dear Buzz,
Sen Debbie Stabenow D. Michigan.... c-span LIVE from Senate Floor - giving a LIST, a rundown, of ALL (alot) of the DIRTY TRICKS repubs. have used to shortchange, deny, or delay confirmation of Clinton judicial nominees.
This is your/Our TAX DOLLARS AT WORK (from their Senate staff research reports)...
BETTER LATE THAN NEVER, and the list is something that a "LIBERAL PRESS" would repeat again and again and again and again.... (sigh)
Oh, Joy, the Honorable Senator Seff Sessions from Alabama Stood up and INTERRUPTED Sen. Stabenow during her 30 minutes of floor time... the oh so concerned Senator from Alabama took issue with Sen. Stabenow diverting, for a few moments; from her discussion of widespread opposition to the Estrada judicial nomination, to her concern with the importation of 130 trucks laden with solid waste (trash).
hmm... the Honorable Senator from Alabama never expressed such concern with the various "RIDERS" the bush administration and Tom DeLay attach to various federal spending bills...!!! Yes, Senator Sessions is FRUSTRATED by the "delay" and "lack of factual discussion" of Mr. Estrada's nomination....
a "FRUSTRATION" he never voiced when Senator Ashcroft derailed Clinton judicial nominee White, or when Sen. Jesse Helms derailed the nomination of Gov. William Weld (a fellow Republican, at that) for US Ambassador to Mexico.
LJBK
Subj: MSNBC is Skewing Even Further Right
Dear B-F,
You may have already seen this, but just in case -- In their quest to close in Faux News, MSNBC has signed rabid wing-nut Michael Savage for a weekly show. Just what the country needs, another hate-monger getting a nationwide TV audience.
Details on the signing : http://tv.zap2it.com/news/tvnewsdaily.html?30127
The craziness of Savage laid bare in one page with his wingnut buddy Tim Ruddy: http://www.newsmax.com/archives/articles/2003/1/31/140229.shtml
Keep up the great work.
JT
Subj: Rush Limbaugh's Butt
Dear BuzzFlash,
I love your website, but I wish you would not mention Rush Limbaugh's butt ever again. I do not know what the story is on that, because there is no way in hell I'm going to click a link that is even remotely connected to that guy's butt. Please keep in mind that some of us read your website while eating our lunches.
Sincerely,
Rachel Bevilacqua
Austin,
TX
Dear Buzz,
news alert: C-SPAN live Senator Bingaman: "Every income group LOST wealth in 1999, EXCEPT those earning MORE than $1million per year..."
(paraphrased from tonight's C-SPAN live coverage of the US Senate, 5:55 PM Wed., 12 Feb. 2003)
REDUCTION In Wealth: EVERY income group EXCEPT those making OVER $1 million per year LOST income value in 1999. The ONLY exception was those earning over $1 million, who saw GAINS in their wealth that year.
Sen. Jeff Bingaman, (D, NM), following after Sen. Dennedy, C-SPAN 2, live from US Senate about 5:50 PM during the Senate filibuster.....
Sen. Bingaman showed an EXCELLENT chart.... ALL blocks BELOW the line, except the final group, whose wealth (above the line) increased dramatically.
LJBK
Dear BuzzFlash,
When I read this mailbag each evening, I think to myself, we are living in a world led by a bunch of maniacs! It both scares and amazes me..to think, that this world, this America of so many smart people, let this cowboy actually get into the White House. Of course, if you read the first chapter of the book "The Hunting of the president," by Conason and Lyons, you would understand. This was planned, the Republican committee led by the equally maniacal Lee Atwater (rest his soul) planned this as far back as 1989...their words? 'They were sure the "old man" their words," Father Bush, was going to blow the election, and they were not afraid of anyone but that young upstart Governor of Arkansas.. All of it, from start to finish, was to make us Americans so sick of Bill CLintons escapades that when the Young'un came along, we would be so impressed by his "Compassionate Conservatism" we would just wilt!! And, let me tell you folks, it is amazing how many democrats who straddled the fence anyway, did just what was expected of them!
I just got stronger in my beliefs, and more and more against and afraid of Dubya..I saw right though him from the first!! (look at the dems who did not straddle, they are afraid to vote against him on anything...you wonder what we have them for!!!) I was thinking last night, as I started to read the Susan McDougal book, how many of the bimbos who were bought and paid for by R. Mellon Scaife..like, Jennifer Flowers and Paula Jones, Juanita Broadrick, Jeez, I have forgotten more than there were, likely.....ended up having to pose for playboy just to make a buck. Oh yeah, they had money donated by the Scaife fund, for nose jobs, face lifts...and singing lessons, which did not work. Poor Jennifer, with a G, she just had no talent...Did anyone even actually hear her sing??? Lordy!! She was awful!!!
Susan on the other hand, after what she has been through, has every right to do whatever she wants...she has paid through the nose for NOT lying about the Clintons. She had integrity...I hope so much she comes to this town...I will take off work to see her...what a strong woman to stand up to the likes of Starr and his Posse! Of course, she does not have to buy good looks, she was always a very attractive woman, and more so now since she is doing such good work. I hope her health holds out, she has a back problem made much worse by having to lie on concrete in solitary confinement...for nothing! I do hope she sues them...God, how I hope!
To Dee Turner, thanks for the push! I am afraid I have stumped the idiot. I did not block him, but I think he just could not answer the questions....He hasn't ranted to me in a few days now....I always have an answer and a question for him.
I am going trough Atlanta in April, would love to say hi......Just know that we are all Comrades in Arms!!! Incidentally, I am going to Florida (gag) to see my daughter...not that my daughter makes me gag, but they are finding that the living is much different in Florida than in Tennessee!! More expensive and more that I haven't caught yet. I just keep quiet and listen. All my children turned to the other side of the fence for Dubya ("Because, Clinton lied".)..If I hear that one more time, I might scream!!!! And, I think, by things that I overhear, that they are not happy with little georgy, but do you know a republican who will admit it!??? Neither do I !!!
Anyway, asking the repug e-mailer of late about Dubya's big lie (drunk driving arrest) was what scared him away....oh, woe is me!!!
Love, you all..................Shirley...........St.Louis
Subj: Let's Color Code Our Dissent and Intent
Dear BuzzFlash Readers,
Disgusted by the useless color coded warning system? This weekend while many of us will be demonstrating against the Bush Cartel's attack on Iraq, and our Constitutional rights, express your dissent and intent to impeach by wearing the solid orange "warning color." Advise the Bush Cartel of the "High Probability Rate" of their impeachment. We can wear it proudly and often. We can wear it while we protest, or at work. We can make ribbons of orange and pin them to our clothing. We can send our letters of complaint to the conservative media in orange envelopes, (sealed with duct tape of course.)
The wearing of orange is a peaceful way to express ourselves without nasty slogans that do more harm than good to our cause. Orange is the color of jailhouse jump suits, appropriate for those of us who feel oppressed by this regime. Orange is also the color of Jeb Bush's Florida export, oranges. Now we can make it work for us!
Peace and Hope,
A BuzzFlash Devotee
Dear Buzz,
gop-bush Sharks ready to devour Greenspan. Serves him right for backing bush treasury-robbing tax cuts in past!
<< Senator Jim Bunning, Republican of Kentucky, suggested that Mr. Greenspan step down. >>
Well, it only took Two years for bush and his bushies to prove me right: the "Clinton Miracle" was NOT Greenspan's doing.
Trying to argue with Bushies is like trying to tell a Southerner in 1860 that Slavery was violent, cruel, and immoral. NO amount of facts or logic will do an ounce of good. But in this case, declaring "Greenspan was the genius of the '90's" reflects badly on the true furher of the Conservative GOP today, so OVER THE SIDE with Greenspan it is!
LJBK
February 12, 2003
Greenspan Throws Cold Water on Bush Arguments for Tax Cut
Reuters
Alan Greenspan challenged the administration's contention that big budget deficits pose little danger.By EDMUND L. ANDREWS
WASHINGTON, Feb. 11 —Alan Greenspan, the Federal Reserve chairman, today rebutted many of President Bush's arguments in favor of big new tax cuts, saying that the economy probably does not need any short-term stimulus and warning that budget deficits could spiral out of control.
Mr. Greenspan did not attack the specifics of Mr. Bush's $674 billion tax-cutting package, but he cast doubt on the need for a stimulus proposal in the first place.
Subj: It's a Gas, Gas, Gas
Dear Buzz,
Could you tell me when Rumsfeld will start issuing Chevron patches, Texaco stars, or Exxon-Mobil medals to our troops overseas? Why should we hide what we're fighting for? What's good for Amoco-BP is good for the USA, and tough luck for Elf-Total (French) or Lukoil (Russian).
Jumpin Joe Flash, it's a gas, gas, gas.
Subj: Keep an Ear Out for Enron
Dear BuzzFlash,
There is something huge poised to break with Enron. Possibly an admission that Enron intentionally cut off California juice as a political favor to Bush/Cheney.
I doubt they will come 100% clean or admit that most of the "energy policy" meetings with the VP were in fact strategy meetings for a hit campaign to unseat Gray Davis by coordinating negative ads with blackouts and also settle scores with Calif. politicos like the current Senate Leader Pro-Tem John Burton who imposed "over-strict" environmental restrictions and pipeline fees. But it should be interesting.
Rosamond
Subj: Duct Tape
Dear Buzz,
In the fifties is was "Duck and cover". In 2003 it's "Duct tape and cover your windows." It sounds to me like they need to get their ducks in order. My advice is to duck and cover from white house propaganda. If terrorists hit us, no amount of ducks or duct tape is going to make a whole hell of a lot of difference.... unless maybe we can duct tape George Bush to his chair.
Rob Moitoza
Subj: re: Neo-Orwellianisms
Dear BuzzFlash,
Orwell's 1984 society was bound through a state/media ritual, called "Two Minutes of Hate."
We have this now, but it's "A Few Days of Fear".
Face it, Orwell was a rank amateur.
Jim P
Subj: Goodbye Greenspan?
I think he's getting old," Grover Norquist, head of Americans for Tax Reform, said of the 76-year-old Greenspan. Norquist, along with Republican sources, said his stance also may have jeopardized his shot at a new term in 2004.
"He didn't do anything to help the president," said a senior Republican congressional aide with White House ties. "You just wonder if he's decided to go or if the White House has told him it's time to go."
Jackie Corr
Tax-Cut Rift Stirs Doubts on Greenspan's Future
Wed Feb 12, 7:05 PM ET
By Adam Entous and Caren BohanWASHINGTON (Reuters) - Federal Reserve (news - web sites) Chairman Alan Greenspan (news - web sites) may have thrown his future into question after a public break with President Bush (news - web sites) on new U.S. tax cuts, Republican sources and economists said on Wednesday.
Some Bush allies were fuming after Greenspan bluntly told Congress in closely watched hearings this week that economic stimulus was not needed right now and warned of the dangers of rising budget deficits.
Subj: Wesley Clark Admits War Plans to German Media
Dear BuzzFlash,
My German isn't good enough to provide a full translation, but in this February 13 interview to the Welt am Sonntag Wesley Clark says that he believes the decision to invade Iraq was made in late 2001. He says that Syria will be next, within 12 months, and then Iran.
Clark: The decision to direct the Iraq issue towards war was long ago decided by the Bush administration.
WamS: When?
Clark: I am not a member of the government [Clark is retired], although I believe it was at the end of 2001.
.....
Clark: I believe that Syria will be the next goal. Within 12 months.
.....
Clark: Yes, that [Iran] comes after Syria.
Original text:
Clark: Die Entscheidung, das Thema Irak in Richtung Krieg zu lenken, wurde von der Bush-Regierung vor langer Zeit getroffen.
WamS: Wann?
Clark: Ich bin nicht Mitglied der Regierung, aber ich glaube, es war Ende 2001.
.....
Clark: Ich glaube, dass Syrien das nächste Ziel sein wird. Schon innerhalb von zwölf Monaten.
.....
Clark: Ja, der kommt nach Syrien.
Perhaps another reader can translate the full interview.
Wellen Reiter
Subj: Savage and MSNBC
This is a message I sent to msnbc.com, protesting the hiring of Michael Savage. I hope more outraged people will do the same.
Chris Boyd
Henderson,
NV
----- Original Message ----- From: Chris Boyd
To: viewerservices@msnbc.com
Cc: field@hrc.org ; media@pfaw.org ; jconason@salon.com ; whatliberalmedia@aol.com
Sent: Wednesday, February 12, 2003 10:56 PM
Subject: Savage & MSNBC
Dear MSNBC,
I have usually watched MSNBC for my nightly national news. I will no longer watch your station, as long as Michael Savage is on your network. The man is a disgusting bigot, and I will not support your network as long as he is on it.
Have you actually listened to this man? I must admit, I rarely do for long, without having to change the channel in disgust. But I did check his website, which advocates the following:
" Require health tests for all recent foreign born immigrants."
" Require a loyalty oath for all immigrants"
You can see those at http://www.homestead.com/prosites-prs/index.html
Have you read his glossary at http://www.homestead.com/prosites-prs/SAVAGEGLOSSARY.html
I'm sure the part about "Anal Rights," which appears to be an obvious slur against gays & lesbians, will be a real hit with your viewers. Is this show going to be on during prime time?
Have you heard him on the radio refer to gays & lesbians as "sodomists?"
Have you read the column where he refers to Senator Barbara Boxer as the "Frau Doktor Mengele." See the column at http://newsmax.com/articles/?a=1999/10/27/64333
That's just what I could find based on a quick search on the web.
This letter isn't an automated e-mail from a liberal organization, like People for the American Way, or the Human Rights Campaign. I'm sure you'll get those soon enough. And they'll have better examples than what I can find at 10:47 pm PST. I'm just a person who is ticked that you would hire such a bigot. And for good measure, I cc'd them on this e-mail.
It's a shame. I thought you had some amount of balance on your network. While I disagree with some of your hosts, they are usually thoughtful, polite, and expressive.
Michael Savage is none of those things. And, I'm boycotting your network until you get rid of him.
Chris Boyd
Henderson,
NV
Subj: Michael Savage
Dear MSNBC--
I've had it. I generally watch a great deal of MSNBC programming, but that ends today. Your decision to hire a racist hate-monger like Michael Savage should be an embarrassment to you, General Electric and Microsoft, if you indeed have any shame. I generally sympathize with MSNBC in your losing battle with Fox News which, of course, is an embarrassment to the news business in the same way the Fox Network is an embarrassment to the television industry. Congratulations on taking a big step toward joining Fox at the bottom of the barrel. I confess I will now derive a great deal of pleasure when I read those endless stories about MSNBC being a distant last in cable news. After hiring Mr. Savage, you deserve the abuse and much, much more. It seems like poetic justice.
Michael Baxter, Dover, Ohio
BuzzFlash doesn't usually post emailed jokes, but we thought this one was particularly funny and timely:
Subj: Any Questions?
President Bush launched a PR campaign to improve his image and popularity. He decided to visit a primary school so he could explain to the children his policy. After explaining his policy to them, the president asked the children if they had any questions.
Little Stevie raises his hand and says, "Mr. President, I have three questions:
"1. How did you have less votes but were still elected president? 2. Why do you want to attack Iraq with no motive? 3. Don't you think Hiroshima was the biggest terrorist attack in history?"
At that moment, the bell rang and the children ran outside to play. At the end of the break the children returned and Bush asked the children if they had any questions.
Little Eddie raises his hand and says, "Mr. President, I have five questions: 1. How did you have less votes but were still elected president? 2. Why do you want to attack Iraq with no motive? 3. Don't you think Hiroshima was the biggest terrorist attack in history? 4. Why did the bell ring 20 minutes too early? 5. Where is Stevie?"
Cathee
Subj: Dick Cheney and Prescott Bush and Germ Warfare
"As CEO of Halliburton, one of the largest oil services company, Dick Cheney oversaw human rights abuses in Burma, trade with Libya, trade with Iran, trade with Iraq (which he denied) and repeated attempts to loosen sanctions on the Taliban, so he could trade with them, too. And we're looking for an Axis of Evil?
- from Michael Moore's 2003 Stupid White Men Calendar, 3/11/03 entry
"During the 1930s and '40s, Prescott Bush, W.'s grandfather, was one of seven directors in the Union Banking Corporation, owned by Nazi industrialists. After filtering their money through a Dutch bank, they hid an estimated $3 million in Bush's bank. The US seized the assets in 1951, but Prescott made off with $1.5 million.
- from Michael Moore's 2003 Stupid White Men Calendar
"In the late '90s, the Pentagon built a factory in the Nevada desert that could make enough germ warfare to wipe out entire cities - and the White House never knew."
- from Michael Moore's 2003 Stupid White Men Calendar
Kathleen Freeman
Subj: Weapons and Duct Tape
Dear Buzz,
Bush gets weapons to protect his house and he tells me to use plastic and duct tape to protect mine.......hummm what's wrong with this picture?
A BuzzFlash Reader
Subj: CALL 1-800-839-5276 -- THANK the Dems
Dear Buzz,
Please ask our fellow BuzzFlashers to CALL 1-800-839-5276 and THANK the Democratic senators.
We can make FREE phone calls to the Democratic senators to THANK them for filibustering the Miguel Estrada nomination.
The FREE Capitol switchboard number, which will connect callers to ANY senator's office, is:
1-800-839-5276
I hope every loyal BuzzFlasher will call TODAY -- PLEASE.
Call ANY Democratic senator from ANY state. They all NEED our SUPPORT.
1-800-839-5276
Call as many Democratic senators as you can -- the calls are FREE.
Take back our judicial system; don't let the right-wing zealots get their way in our courts!
1-800-839-5276
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
It is NOT possible to trust Mr. Estrada to uphold the Constitution and the rule of law when he so openly shows contempt for the "advise and consent" process mandated in the Constitution.
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A Loyal BuzzFlasher
Subj: News Blackout!
Dear BuzzFlash,
In the Philippines the Philippine Vice President Teo Guingona is at the barricades in front of the US embassy leading the round the clock demonstrations against the war; is CNN covering this? Of course not!
~Paul Shoffner
