America's annual human rights survey once again criticized China, Cuba, Myanmar, North Korea and Russia.  This time, China was very quick to respond.  Citing American hypocrisy, China blamed the USA for the current financial crisis gripping the world which is causing substantial human rights problems and claimed that America is unmatched when it comes to causing mass suffering throughout the world.

While many would find these accusations baseless, the fact is that they are on point.  The USA are quick to criticize all, but never take a step back to reflect on their actions.  America has caused over a million deaths in Iraq and counting, which is exponentially higher than Saddam's entire reign.  What American corporations do around the world, often causing irreversible devastation, is completely ignored in America's criticisms.  This is hypocrisy at its peak.

Nancy Pelosi later criticised china for its Tibet issue, honoring the many brave Tibetans who have sacrificed their lives fighting for freedom.  China has become extremely sensitive of the Tibet subject. 

"We advise the relevant U.S. congresswoman to respect the facts, abandon her prejudices and stop using the Tibet issue to interfere in China's internal affairs," says spokesman Qin Gang.Source: www.fmprc.gov.cn

As the rhetoric grows, so do tensions.  With China becoming more and more agitated at America's interference, its alliances with Russia grows.  Worse yet, its support of Iran hardens, making America's life substantially more difficult. 

It is time for America to press the reset button on Chinese diplomacy.  If they don't understand the Chinese, they should simply back down.  Antagonizing China is in no one's interests today.

America's annual human rights survey once again criticized China, Cuba, Myanmar, North Korea and Russia.  This time, China was very quick to respond.  Citing American hypocrisy, China blamed the USA for the current financial crisis gripping the world which is causing substantial human rights problems and claimed that America is unmatched when it comes to causing mass suffering throughout the world.

While many would find these accusations baseless, the fact is that they are on point.  The USA are quick to criticize all, but never take a step back to reflect on their actions.  America has caused over a million deaths in Iraq and counting, which is exponentially higher than Saddam's entire reign.  What American corporations do around the world, often causing irreversible devastation, is completely ignored in America's criticisms.  This is hypocrisy at its peak.

Nancy Pelosi later criticised china for its Tibet issue, honoring the many brave Tibetans who have sacrificed their lives fighting for freedom.  China has become extremely sensitive of the Tibet subject. 

"We advise the relevant U.S. congresswoman to respect the facts, abandon her prejudices and stop using the Tibet issue to interfere in China's internal affairs," says spokesman Qin Gang.Source: www.fmprc.gov.cn

As the rhetoric grows, so do tensions.  With China becoming more and more agitated at America's interference, its alliances with Russia grows.  Worse yet, its support of Iran hardens, making America's life substantially more difficult. 

It is time for America to press the reset button on Chinese diplomacy.  If they don't understand the Chinese, they should simply back down.  Antagonizing China is in no one's interests today.

Today is March 8th, International Women's Day. While many western countries do not acknowledge this as a day of celebration, International Women's Day is celebrated throughout the world. Unlike Mother's Day, where people simply congratulate their Mother's or just a Mother in General, International Women's Day celebrates that which is most important to Men around the world, the Woman.

It is a rare case that a man doesn't have an important woman in his life. The most important that comes to mind is, of course, the mother. However, there is always the Sisters, Wife, Daughters or just female friends. Today is the day that the women need to receive some level of acknowledgement for their being. Bring them flowers, chocolate or simply just let them know how much they mean to you. Congratulating your female coworkers is also a good idea, letting them know that they are appreciated for their effort.

International Womens Day started as a Socialist holiday, which is likely why it never caught on in the Western World. However, its meaning surpasses socialism, or politics in general, and so I would love to see it as a true international holiday where everyone can enjoy it. Its history is best summed up in Wikipedia:

The first IWD was observed on 28 February 1909 in the United States following a declaration by the Socialist Party of America. Among other relevant historic events, it came to commemorate the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire. The idea of having an international women's day was first put forward at the turn of the 20th century amid rapid world industrialization and economic expansion that led to protests over working conditions.

In 1910 the first international women's conference was held in Copenhagen (in the labour-movement building located at Jagtvej 69, which until recently housed Ungdomshuset) by the Second International and an 'International Women's Day' was established, which was submitted by the important German Socialist Clara Zetkin, although no date was specified.^[1] The following year, 1911, IWD was marked by over a million people in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland, on March 19.^[2] However, soon thereafter, on March 25, the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City killed over 140 garment workers. A lack of safety measures was blamed for the high death toll. Furthermore, on the eve of World War I, women across Europe held peace rallies on 8 March 1913. In the West, International Women's Day was commemorated during the 1910s and 1920s, but dwindled. It was revived by the rise of feminism in the 1960s.

Demonstrations marking International Women's Day in Russia proved to be the first stage of the Russian Revolution of 1917.

Following the October Revolution, the Bolshevik feminist Alexandra Kollontai persuaded Lenin to make it an official holiday in the Soviet Union, and it was established, but was a working day until 1965. On May 8, 1965 by the decree of the USSR Presidium of the Supreme Soviet International Women's Day was declared as a non working day in the USSR "in commemoration of the outstanding merits of Soviet women in communistic construction, in the defense of their Fatherland during the Great Patriotic War, in their heroism and selflessness at the front and in the rear, and also marking the great contribution of women to strengthening friendship between peoples, and the struggle for peace. But still, women's day must be celebrated as are other holidays."

Today, International Women's Day has gone well beyond mere Socialist states and has entered the world market as a true International Holiday.  Most countries that celebrate International Women's Day have declared it a National Holiday with all businesses closed.  However, some simply recognize the days importance but still ask its citizens to work.  The following countries recognize International Women's Day as a National Holiday:

Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, China, Croatia, Cuba, Georgia, Guinea-Bissau, Eritrea, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Madagascar, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Nepal, Russia, Serbia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, and Zambia.

Numerous other countries recognize International Women's Day, such as Cameroon and Romania, but they have not made it a National Holiday.  This is unfortunate because there is nothing quite as important as the women of our society.

Today is March 8th, International Women's Day. While many western countries do not acknowledge this as a day of celebration, International Women's Day is celebrated throughout the world. Unlike Mother's Day, where people simply congratulate their Mother's or just a Mother in General, International Women's Day celebrates that which is most important to Men around the world, the Woman.

It is a rare case that a man doesn't have an important woman in his life. The most important that comes to mind is, of course, the mother. However, there is always the Sisters, Wife, Daughters or just female friends. Today is the day that the women need to receive some level of acknowledgement for their being. Bring them flowers, chocolate or simply just let them know how much they mean to you. Congratulating your female coworkers is also a good idea, letting them know that they are appreciated for their effort.

International Womens Day started as a Socialist holiday, which is likely why it never caught on in the Western World. However, its meaning surpasses socialism, or politics in general, and so I would love to see it as a true international holiday where everyone can enjoy it. Its history is best summed up in Wikipedia:

The first IWD was observed on 28 February 1909 in the United States following a declaration by the Socialist Party of America. Among other relevant historic events, it came to commemorate the 1911 Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire. The idea of having an international women's day was first put forward at the turn of the 20th century amid rapid world industrialization and economic expansion that led to protests over working conditions.

In 1910 the first international women's conference was held in Copenhagen (in the labour-movement building located at Jagtvej 69, which until recently housed Ungdomshuset) by the Second International and an 'International Women's Day' was established, which was submitted by the important German Socialist Clara Zetkin, although no date was specified.^[1] The following year, 1911, IWD was marked by over a million people in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland, on March 19.^[2] However, soon thereafter, on March 25, the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City killed over 140 garment workers. A lack of safety measures was blamed for the high death toll. Furthermore, on the eve of World War I, women across Europe held peace rallies on 8 March 1913. In the West, International Women's Day was commemorated during the 1910s and 1920s, but dwindled. It was revived by the rise of feminism in the 1960s.

Demonstrations marking International Women's Day in Russia proved to be the first stage of the Russian Revolution of 1917.

Following the October Revolution, the Bolshevik feminist Alexandra Kollontai persuaded Lenin to make it an official holiday in the Soviet Union, and it was established, but was a working day until 1965. On May 8, 1965 by the decree of the USSR Presidium of the Supreme Soviet International Women's Day was declared as a non working day in the USSR "in commemoration of the outstanding merits of Soviet women in communistic construction, in the defense of their Fatherland during the Great Patriotic War, in their heroism and selflessness at the front and in the rear, and also marking the great contribution of women to strengthening friendship between peoples, and the struggle for peace. But still, women's day must be celebrated as are other holidays."

Today, International Women's Day has gone well beyond mere Socialist states and has entered the world market as a true International Holiday.  Most countries that celebrate International Women's Day have declared it a National Holiday with all businesses closed.  However, some simply recognize the days importance but still ask its citizens to work.  The following countries recognize International Women's Day as a National Holiday:

Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, China, Croatia, Cuba, Georgia, Guinea-Bissau, Eritrea, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Madagascar, Moldova, Mongolia, Montenegro, Nepal, Russia, Serbia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, and Zambia.

Numerous other countries recognize International Women's Day, such as Cameroon and Romania, but they have not made it a National Holiday.  This is unfortunate because there is nothing quite as important as the women of our society.

With a war looming in Israel over Palestinian land, it is a bit unsettling to Israeli supporters to see how the Palestinian militants are aggressively training new recruits so that they can hold their own if such a war comes to pass.

It is no secret that Palestinian soldiers are no match for Israeli Tanks, Helicopters, Gun Boats and Fighter Jets, but it is still disconcerting to imagine these militants entering Israel proper and attacking military posts, or worse yet civilians.

These photos are primarily taken in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip and seem to represent the Palestinian Islamic Jihad sect as well as the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP).

All photos and descriptions originated on a Denver Post blog, courtesy of AP Photo/ Tara Todras-Whitehill. 

The above photo seems to have an element of humor attached.

In an attempt to better prepare the Militants, Live explosions, fire and smoke is used

Militant Women are becoming more common amongst the insurgents

With a war looming in Israel over Palestinian land, it is a bit unsettling to Israeli supporters to see how the Palestinian militants are aggressively training new recruits so that they can hold their own if such a war comes to pass.

It is no secret that Palestinian soldiers are no match for Israeli Tanks, Helicopters, Gun Boats and Fighter Jets, but it is still disconcerting to imagine these militants entering Israel proper and attacking military posts, or worse yet civilians.

These photos are primarily taken in Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip and seem to represent the Palestinian Islamic Jihad sect as well as the Democratic Front for the Liberation of Palestine (DFLP).

All photos and descriptions originated on a Denver Post blog, courtesy of AP Photo/ Tara Todras-Whitehill. 

The above photo seems to have an element of humor attached.

In an attempt to better prepare the Militants, Live explosions, fire and smoke is used

Militant Women are becoming more common amongst the insurgents

In a momentous move, 243 seats out of 450 have voted out Yulia Tymoshenko in a no confidence bid.  This more or less ensures the fact that she will step down, allowing Viktor Yanukovich to form his own coalition, electing a more favorable Prime Minister.

Prior to the vote, Yulia was quoted as saying, "If the dismissal of the government is passed today, at that very same moment our government will leave the cabinet. Our political force will cross into the opposition." [source]  Seeing as how the vote has only taken place less than 30 minutes ago, it is difficult to predict how she will react.  Logic, however, points to her quietly moving into opposition and rebuilding her alliance base.

Now with Yulia out of the way, Ukraine has a chance at forming a proper government with substantially less squabbling.  Of course, this is in no way guaranteed.  Yanukovich has yet to form a coalition government, and there is still a great divide between those looking east and those looking west.

With Yulia out of the way, there does seem to be a glimmer of hope for Ukraine.  So long as the politicians can put aside there differences long enough to get Ukraine back on its feet, I see a great deal of potential for Ukraine. 

What is most unfortunate, as has been stressed many times in the past, is Ukraine's unending political greed.  Yanukovich is anything but a saint, and his constituents are equally vile.  While I feel that Yanukovich is a step above Tymoshenko, it is a very small step.  The corruption ravaging Yanukovich's party, and his home Donetsk region, is impossible to ignore.  While the corruption, bribery and thievery will not yield during his government, my hope is that he will at least allow the middle class to get on their feet before he continues the raping of Ukraine.

What Ukraine truly needs is a real leader, one that wasn't raised Soviet and one that hasn't been molded by its corrupt system put in place after the Soviet collapse.  Since this isn't the case, let us hope that Yanukovich has the sense to help Ukraine get on its feet before he allows his hyenas to pillage what's left.  Logically, if he builds Ukraine up before the thievery begins, there will be substantially more to steal.

In a momentous move, 243 seats out of 450 have voted out Yulia Tymoshenko in a no confidence bid.  This more or less ensures the fact that she will step down, allowing Viktor Yanukovich to form his own coalition, electing a more favorable Prime Minister.

Prior to the vote, Yulia was quoted as saying, "If the dismissal of the government is passed today, at that very same moment our government will leave the cabinet. Our political force will cross into the opposition." [source]  Seeing as how the vote has only taken place less than 30 minutes ago, it is difficult to predict how she will react.  Logic, however, points to her quietly moving into opposition and rebuilding her alliance base.

Now with Yulia out of the way, Ukraine has a chance at forming a proper government with substantially less squabbling.  Of course, this is in no way guaranteed.  Yanukovich has yet to form a coalition government, and there is still a great divide between those looking east and those looking west.

With Yulia out of the way, there does seem to be a glimmer of hope for Ukraine.  So long as the politicians can put aside there differences long enough to get Ukraine back on its feet, I see a great deal of potential for Ukraine. 

What is most unfortunate, as has been stressed many times in the past, is Ukraine's unending political greed.  Yanukovich is anything but a saint, and his constituents are equally vile.  While I feel that Yanukovich is a step above Tymoshenko, it is a very small step.  The corruption ravaging Yanukovich's party, and his home Donetsk region, is impossible to ignore.  While the corruption, bribery and thievery will not yield during his government, my hope is that he will at least allow the middle class to get on their feet before he continues the raping of Ukraine.

What Ukraine truly needs is a real leader, one that wasn't raised Soviet and one that hasn't been molded by its corrupt system put in place after the Soviet collapse.  Since this isn't the case, let us hope that Yanukovich has the sense to help Ukraine get on its feet before he allows his hyenas to pillage what's left.  Logically, if he builds Ukraine up before the thievery begins, there will be substantially more to steal.

America has always been known as the land of the free, both within the country and throughout the world.  People come here in order to escape persecution, gain notoriety or make a better life for themselves.  There is no question in my mind that the USA is the best country to live in with respect to comfort and lifestyle.  While not everyone agrees, it is definitely true that many of those that despise America are in fact jealous that they don't have the freedom to move around with its borders, I felt this first hand with what felt like a crushing fist while living in Ukraine.

Likewise, with its renown freedom and seemingly endless queue of people waiting for their chance to breach the borders, comes many embellishments and fabrications which help fuel the concept that the USA not just outshines all other countries, but dwarfs them to such a degree that we in the USA simply stand upon a mountain looking down at ants in the valley below.  While the USA is, in my opinion, the best country to live in, it isn't that far ahead of its peers.  To continue using the mountain analogy, a more precise difference between the USA and say Ukraine would be closer to half a flight of stairs, where most European countries 'may' be millimeters apart (some actually higher).

Americans enjoy reading these fabrications for obvious reasons, it gives them a sense of their importance in the world.  Those who propogate these embelishments are often given media attention, especially those already in the spotlight or those striving to attain spotlight.  Hence, Mila Kunis' fictional tail of her families exodus from the 'Soviet Union' is now being featured in many media cirlces, in time to give her persona a bost as well as give her latest film, Book of Eli, a little nudge at the box office.

The story goes as such:

Mila Kunis’ parents told her they were moving “down the street” when they fled the Soviet Union for America.

The actress was eight years old when her mother and father told her and her brother to pack their belongings. The children were told they were relocating to a new home metres away, but soon found themselves in Los Angeles, California. Today, Mila barely remembers her first home in Chernivsti, in what is now Ukraine.

“I was told we were moving down the street,” Mila said. “We didn’t move down the street. I don’t remember much.”

Source: www.musicrooms.net

This story is riddled with inaccuracies.  For starters, Mila Kunis 'fled' Ukraine, not the Soviet Union.  Mila is currently 26, so she was 8 18 years ago, which happened to be 1991, when the Soviet Union fell.  This is the time when most Jews started to leave the former soviet states, and this time is often referred to as the 'Second Wave' by Jews within the USA.  After the collapse, leaving the ex-Soviet states was substantially easier than during Soviet times, with people leaving in droves. Over the next 5 years, millions of Jews 'fled'.

Mila's story of 'moving down the street' is also a bit far fetched.  While there is no doubt that parents often deceive their children in order to get things done quicker, here it is being used a metaphor towards secrecy and the danger of leaving Ukraine.  Mila left from Chernivsti, a western city known for its Nationalists.  It is likely that her family felt greater persecution there because of this nationalism, but the concept of secrecy in order to escape is just laughable.

It is obvious that Mila's story is being used to garner her more popularity.  It is just unfortunate that such fabrications are going to be used in the future to solidify America's 'vast' superiority and the 'evil Soviet empire'.  The truth is much more beneficial to society than these fabrications, but unfortunately the truth isn't so good at selling newspapers.

America has always been known as the land of the free, both within the country and throughout the world.  People come here in order to escape persecution, gain notoriety or make a better life for themselves.  There is no question in my mind that the USA is the best country to live in with respect to comfort and lifestyle.  While not everyone agrees, it is definitely true that many of those that despise America are in fact jealous that they don't have the freedom to move around with its borders, I felt this first hand with what felt like a crushing fist while living in Ukraine.

Likewise, with its renown freedom and seemingly endless queue of people waiting for their chance to breach the borders, comes many embellishments and fabrications which help fuel the concept that the USA not just outshines all other countries, but dwarfs them to such a degree that we in the USA simply stand upon a mountain looking down at ants in the valley below.  While the USA is, in my opinion, the best country to live in, it isn't that far ahead of its peers.  To continue using the mountain analogy, a more precise difference between the USA and say Ukraine would be closer to half a flight of stairs, where most European countries 'may' be millimeters apart (some actually higher).

Americans enjoy reading these fabrications for obvious reasons, it gives them a sense of their importance in the world.  Those who propogate these embelishments are often given media attention, especially those already in the spotlight or those striving to attain spotlight.  Hence, Mila Kunis' fictional tail of her families exodus from the 'Soviet Union' is now being featured in many media cirlces, in time to give her persona a bost as well as give her latest film, Book of Eli, a little nudge at the box office.

The story goes as such:

Mila Kunis’ parents told her they were moving “down the street” when they fled the Soviet Union for America.

The actress was eight years old when her mother and father told her and her brother to pack their belongings. The children were told they were relocating to a new home metres away, but soon found themselves in Los Angeles, California. Today, Mila barely remembers her first home in Chernivsti, in what is now Ukraine.

“I was told we were moving down the street,” Mila said. “We didn’t move down the street. I don’t remember much.”

Source: www.musicrooms.net

This story is riddled with inaccuracies.  For starters, Mila Kunis 'fled' Ukraine, not the Soviet Union.  Mila is currently 26, so she was 8 18 years ago, which happened to be 1991, when the Soviet Union fell.  This is the time when most Jews started to leave the former soviet states, and this time is often referred to as the 'Second Wave' by Jews within the USA.  After the collapse, leaving the ex-Soviet states was substantially easier than during Soviet times, with people leaving in droves. Over the next 5 years, millions of Jews 'fled'.

Mila's story of 'moving down the street' is also a bit far fetched.  While there is no doubt that parents often deceive their children in order to get things done quicker, here it is being used a metaphor towards secrecy and the danger of leaving Ukraine.  Mila left from Chernivsti, a western city known for its Nationalists.  It is likely that her family felt greater persecution there because of this nationalism, but the concept of secrecy in order to escape is just laughable.

It is obvious that Mila's story is being used to garner her more popularity.  It is just unfortunate that such fabrications are going to be used in the future to solidify America's 'vast' superiority and the 'evil Soviet empire'.  The truth is much more beneficial to society than these fabrications, but unfortunately the truth isn't so good at selling newspapers.

After much fanfare and great expectations, Dubai introduced Burj Khalifa to the world as not only the worlds largest building, but a pinnacle of Dubai's wealth, power and prestige.  The opening ceremony of Burj Khalifa was watched by millions, whose extravagance was unmatched.  In order to further drive home the image of its massive size, Dubai invited two expert base jumpers, Omar Al Hegelan and Nasser Al Neyadi, to break the world record for highest jump from a man made structure. 

There is even a mystery surrounding how many actual stories the building contains.  People estimate that there are about 160, but only a select few really know and the secret is being kept tightly.  As the West scour enviously, Dubai revels in its technological superiority.

That all changed today.  In a totally unexpected move, the Burj Khalifa was closed to the public on Sunday.  Those tourists that have travelled to Dubai in order to witness the view from its observation deck are left totally disappointed.  This move, while not officially confirmed, is also leading people to speculate whether or not the Burj Khalifa will allow its first permanent residents to move in later this month.

Its owners have admitted to electrical problems in the observation deck, but these have been played down recently as mere trivialities.  It is possible that the problems were underestimated, but it is difficult to know for sure.

There is also some talk of terrorism in the blogosphere, but this too is mere speculation and not worth putting too much emphasis on.  In reality, until the owners come forth with an official press release, there is simply no way to know.

It seems that while the Emirates have the wealth, they don't seem to have the know how.  There habit of rushing into things have left many disappointed.  Their ridiculous effort of building Islands of the World has been nothing short of a disaster, while their Palm Island is doing only slightly better.  It seems that the sheiks running Dubai should concentrate more on producing oil, and less on revolutionary structures.

After much fanfare and great expectations, Dubai introduced Burj Khalifa to the world as not only the worlds largest building, but a pinnacle of Dubai's wealth, power and prestige.  The opening ceremony of Burj Khalifa was watched by millions, whose extravagance was unmatched.  In order to further drive home the image of its massive size, Dubai invited two expert base jumpers, Omar Al Hegelan and Nasser Al Neyadi, to break the world record for highest jump from a man made structure. 

There is even a mystery surrounding how many actual stories the building contains.  People estimate that there are about 160, but only a select few really know and the secret is being kept tightly.  As the West scour enviously, Dubai revels in its technological superiority.

That all changed today.  In a totally unexpected move, the Burj Khalifa was closed to the public on Sunday.  Those tourists that have travelled to Dubai in order to witness the view from its observation deck are left totally disappointed.  This move, while not officially confirmed, is also leading people to speculate whether or not the Burj Khalifa will allow its first permanent residents to move in later this month.

Its owners have admitted to electrical problems in the observation deck, but these have been played down recently as mere trivialities.  It is possible that the problems were underestimated, but it is difficult to know for sure.

There is also some talk of terrorism in the blogosphere, but this too is mere speculation and not worth putting too much emphasis on.  In reality, until the owners come forth with an official press release, there is simply no way to know.

It seems that while the Emirates have the wealth, they don't seem to have the know how.  There habit of rushing into things have left many disappointed.  Their ridiculous effort of building Islands of the World has been nothing short of a disaster, while their Palm Island is doing only slightly better.  It seems that the sheiks running Dubai should concentrate more on producing oil, and less on revolutionary structures.

Being an immigrant in the USA gives you an interesting perspective on the American mentality.  The fact before any minor natural event the local grocery stores are emptied, batteries are in short supply, candles become fashionable and anything relating to the event in question becomes a desperate quest.  In the DC area alone, just before the storm hit, fights were breaking out over shovels.  I found this quite funny.

The habbit of closing things before an event even starts is also quite amusing.  Schools were closed the night before Snowmageddon even began, businesses closed hours early without even a flake on the ground.  The logic is understandable, but coming from a country where immense snowfalls happen regularly, with no preparation or means to fight it, this is interesting to watch. 

After Snowmaggedon settled, it was a truly beautiful sight.  Within 30 minutes of the last snowflake, the sun was out and shining bright.  The next day was truly impressive as well.  While the roads were terrible, impossible to properly navigate without all wheel drive, stores were open and people were out and about.  This worst snowfall in DC's recent memory, , has ended and the panic was all for nought ... as they all end.

As I drove around the area, I was breathtaken by the beauty left in Snowmaggedon's aftermath.  People were out shoveling, kids were playing in the streets and the snow left a puffy blanket of white everywhere.  Below are some photos of the aftermath shot early this morning, some with comments on where they were taken.

Shady Grove in North Potomac, a generally Busy Street

This is a reasonably large intersection by Potomac Place Shopping Center

This is Interstate 270 by the Shady Grove exit.  There is an inch of snow throughout most of it

In the end I have but one question, what will all those people do with a 2 month supply of milk?

Being an immigrant in the USA gives you an interesting perspective on the American mentality.  The fact before any minor natural event the local grocery stores are emptied, batteries are in short supply, candles become fashionable and anything relating to the event in question becomes a desperate quest.  In the DC area alone, just before the storm hit, fights were breaking out over shovels.  I found this quite funny.

The habbit of closing things before an event even starts is also quite amusing.  Schools were closed the night before Snowmageddon even began, businesses closed hours early without even a flake on the ground.  The logic is understandable, but coming from a country where immense snowfalls happen regularly, with no preparation or means to fight it, this is interesting to watch. 

After Snowmaggedon settled, it was a truly beautiful sight.  Within 30 minutes of the last snowflake, the sun was out and shining bright.  The next day was truly impressive as well.  While the roads were terrible, impossible to properly navigate without all wheel drive, stores were open and people were out and about.  This worst snowfall in DC's recent memory, , has ended and the panic was all for nought ... as they all end.

As I drove around the area, I was breathtaken by the beauty left in Snowmaggedon's aftermath.  People were out shoveling, kids were playing in the streets and the snow left a puffy blanket of white everywhere.  Below are some photos of the aftermath shot early this morning, some with comments on where they were taken.

Shady Grove in North Potomac, a generally Busy Street

This is a reasonably large intersection by Potomac Place Shopping Center

This is Interstate 270 by the Shady Grove exit.  There is an inch of snow throughout most of it

In the end I have but one question, what will all those people do with a 2 month supply of milk?

While most Americans are completely unaware of the fact that Ukraine is not only facing its worst financial crisis since its official inception, but Sunday's election is being sold to its citizens as their only chance at fixing this crisis.  Likewise, Americans are most likely oblivious to the fact that the current government is a puppet government installed by the USA.  Unfortunately for the USA, and much more so for Ukraine, the puppet in charge was so inept that America could do little in Ukraine, while the people of Ukraine fell into a seemingly unending abyss.

America's meddling in Ukrainian politics is nothing new, and in fact a common practice for all world powers.  The American elections have been likewise greatly influenced by foreign powers, albeit a completely illegal practice.  There is little doubt that the Clintons received immense backing by the Chinese government.

Politics is a dirty game in which those with more power are always trying to instill their views on those with less.  The more money, the more power ... and hence American dominance.  Ukraine just happened to get caught up in another one of America's failed attempts at purchasing influence.

The Washington Times is currently running a great article in this direction by Doug Bandow entitled A Champion at Meddling [link].  I can't say that I agree with it completely, but I don't want to take away from it by only citing the pieces that I like.  The story is copied in full below.

A champion at meddling

Five years ago, Western governments and nongovernmental organizations did their best to support Ukraine's so-called Orange Revolution, which propelled Viktor Yushchenko into the Ukrainian presidency. But Mr. Yushchenko's performance in office was a disaster; in last month's presidential election, he finished in fifth place with a dismal 5.4 percent. His failure serves as a stark reminder of the risks when Washington intervenes in foreign politics.

Ukraine was one of many lands absorbed by both the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union. The collapse of the latter enabled Ukraine to win its independence.

But the break was never clean. Nearly one-fifth of Ukrainians are ethnic Russians. They make up a majority in the Crimea, which contains Russia's Sevastopol naval base.

Moreover, Ukrainian politics have been marred by corruption, vote fraud, brutal infighting and violence. Despite the Manichean prism through which Westerners tend to view foreign political contests, most leading Ukrainian politicians appear to be shades of gray rather than black and white.

In the December 2004 poll, Washington-backed Mr. Yushchenko had his own big-business allies, just like Viktor Yanukovich, who was attacked for being a tool of financial oligarchs. Moreover, Mr. Yushchenko was allied with financial baroness Yulia Tymoshenko.

Although Mr. Yushchenko was more obviously pro-Western than Mr. Yanukovich, in practice, the differences were smaller than advertised. Even the latter advocated membership in the European Union, and Mr. Yushchenko never found public or political support for his plan to join NATO.

Finally, Mr. Yushchenko proved to be one of the least competent politicians ever elected head of state. Despite the initial euphoria of more liberal and Western-leaning elites at Mr. Yushchenko's victory, Ukrainian politics quickly turned into a national soap opera.

Mr. Yushchenko quickly turned on Mrs. Tymoshenko, even accusing her of treason. In the meantime, the economy stagnated, reform halted, relations with Russia deteriorated, and the Ukrainian people grew frustrated.

In the latest vote, Mr. Yanukovich finished first with about 35 percent compared to Mrs. Tymoshenko's 25 percent. She still could win the runoff on Feb. 7, but the Orange Revolution is dead. For those outside Ukraine, at least, it doesn't matter much who becomes Ukraine's next president.

It especially does not matter to America.

While most Americans are completely unaware of the fact that Ukraine is not only facing its worst financial crisis since its official inception, but Sunday's election is being sold to its citizens as their only chance at fixing this crisis.  Likewise, Americans are most likely oblivious to the fact that the current government is a puppet government installed by the USA.  Unfortunately for the USA, and much more so for Ukraine, the puppet in charge was so inept that America could do little in Ukraine, while the people of Ukraine fell into a seemingly unending abyss.

America's meddling in Ukrainian politics is nothing new, and in fact a common practice for all world powers.  The American elections have been likewise greatly influenced by foreign powers, albeit a completely illegal practice.  There is little doubt that the Clintons received immense backing by the Chinese government.

Politics is a dirty game in which those with more power are always trying to instill their views on those with less.  The more money, the more power ... and hence American dominance.  Ukraine just happened to get caught up in another one of America's failed attempts at purchasing influence.

The Washington Times is currently running a great article in this direction by Doug Bandow entitled A Champion at Meddling [link].  I can't say that I agree with it completely, but I don't want to take away from it by only citing the pieces that I like.  The story is copied in full below.

A champion at meddling

Five years ago, Western governments and nongovernmental organizations did their best to support Ukraine's so-called Orange Revolution, which propelled Viktor Yushchenko into the Ukrainian presidency. But Mr. Yushchenko's performance in office was a disaster; in last month's presidential election, he finished in fifth place with a dismal 5.4 percent. His failure serves as a stark reminder of the risks when Washington intervenes in foreign politics.

Ukraine was one of many lands absorbed by both the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union. The collapse of the latter enabled Ukraine to win its independence.

But the break was never clean. Nearly one-fifth of Ukrainians are ethnic Russians. They make up a majority in the Crimea, which contains Russia's Sevastopol naval base.

Moreover, Ukrainian politics have been marred by corruption, vote fraud, brutal infighting and violence. Despite the Manichean prism through which Westerners tend to view foreign political contests, most leading Ukrainian politicians appear to be shades of gray rather than black and white.

In the December 2004 poll, Washington-backed Mr. Yushchenko had his own big-business allies, just like Viktor Yanukovich, who was attacked for being a tool of financial oligarchs. Moreover, Mr. Yushchenko was allied with financial baroness Yulia Tymoshenko.

Although Mr. Yushchenko was more obviously pro-Western than Mr. Yanukovich, in practice, the differences were smaller than advertised. Even the latter advocated membership in the European Union, and Mr. Yushchenko never found public or political support for his plan to join NATO.

Finally, Mr. Yushchenko proved to be one of the least competent politicians ever elected head of state. Despite the initial euphoria of more liberal and Western-leaning elites at Mr. Yushchenko's victory, Ukrainian politics quickly turned into a national soap opera.

Mr. Yushchenko quickly turned on Mrs. Tymoshenko, even accusing her of treason. In the meantime, the economy stagnated, reform halted, relations with Russia deteriorated, and the Ukrainian people grew frustrated.

In the latest vote, Mr. Yanukovich finished first with about 35 percent compared to Mrs. Tymoshenko's 25 percent. She still could win the runoff on Feb. 7, but the Orange Revolution is dead. For those outside Ukraine, at least, it doesn't matter much who becomes Ukraine's next president.

It especially does not matter to America.

With the agreed upon lifespan of the International Space Station coming upon us, the European Space Agency are first to call for an extension of the ISS's life span from 2015 to 2020.  With no current funding planned after 2015, many are wondering what the fate of the ISS will be after this date.

The ESA's Director General, Jean-Jacques Dordain, is worried that the fact that the ISS's lifespan is coming to a close, possible research is not being planned for fear that it will never come to pass.  Dordain rightly feels that in order to guarantee the full use of the ISS, proper funding needs to be allocated after the current 2015 termination date.

With the Financial Crisis looming, many participant nations are hesitant to commit funding to a project that doesn't provide a return on investment financially.  Thus, Dordain has proposed numerous means of cutting back on spending in order to extend the ISS lifespan utilizing the current budget.

"First of all, we have four control centres - one in Houston, one in Oberpfaffenhofen, one in Moscow and one in Tsukuba - and these four control centres are working 24 hours a day. Question mark: Why can't we use only two of them for 12 hours and then the other two for 12 hours?", Dordain exclaimed.

His logic is difficult to ignore.  The fact that he is the ESA's Director General also implies that his suggestion is backed with enough thought and research implying its feasibility.

With construction of the ISS scheduled to be completed next year, it seems a shame to abandon it shortly there after, especially when taking into account that development has been in progress for 12 years already.  It seems extremely wasteful to build something for 13 years, only to abandon it 4 years later.  Of course, much research has been done in the meantime, but much more can be done.

With the agreed upon lifespan of the International Space Station coming upon us, the European Space Agency are first to call for an extension of the ISS's life span from 2015 to 2020.  With no current funding planned after 2015, many are wondering what the fate of the ISS will be after this date.

The ESA's Director General, Jean-Jacques Dordain, is worried that the fact that the ISS's lifespan is coming to a close, possible research is not being planned for fear that it will never come to pass.  Dordain rightly feels that in order to guarantee the full use of the ISS, proper funding needs to be allocated after the current 2015 termination date.

With the Financial Crisis looming, many participant nations are hesitant to commit funding to a project that doesn't provide a return on investment financially.  Thus, Dordain has proposed numerous means of cutting back on spending in order to extend the ISS lifespan utilizing the current budget.

"First of all, we have four control centres - one in Houston, one in Oberpfaffenhofen, one in Moscow and one in Tsukuba - and these four control centres are working 24 hours a day. Question mark: Why can't we use only two of them for 12 hours and then the other two for 12 hours?", Dordain exclaimed.

His logic is difficult to ignore.  The fact that he is the ESA's Director General also implies that his suggestion is backed with enough thought and research implying its feasibility.

With construction of the ISS scheduled to be completed next year, it seems a shame to abandon it shortly there after, especially when taking into account that development has been in progress for 12 years already.  It seems extremely wasteful to build something for 13 years, only to abandon it 4 years later.  Of course, much research has been done in the meantime, but much more can be done.