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By Avery Johnson, Josh Kristianto
Published April 24, 2020 1:29 PM
County officials: 25% of COVID-19 cases in Monterey County come from agriculture industry
MONTEREY COUNTY, Calif. (KION)
UPDATE 4/24/2020 10:30 p.m. Dozens of agricultural workers in Monterey County have been infected with COVID-19, according to county officials on Friday.
41 people have tested positive for the novel coronavirus in that demographic, accounting for about a quarter of the county's total positive cases.
"I hope now that some of these numbers are actually heard by our state legislators and by our governor because we've been asking for weeks now for more resources to be deployed," said Luis Alejo, a Monterey County supervisor.
Without providing more detail, the Monterey County Health Department says the workers impacted could be those in the field or people working in packing, sheds or transportation.
Officials say part of the problem is how close people get to each other, sometimes packed together in the fields or where they live. The county put out guidelines for how agriculture companies can protect their workers about a month ago.
Supervisor Alejo suggests now is the time to make the guidelines mandatory, even though he feels most have been following the rules.
"I think that would put more strength and that will address the bad actors that perhaps are not following what we've been asking them to do," said Alejo.
"The same efforts certainly need to be done in this crisis to ensure that we are providing them with temporary housing that they need so they can shelter in place, that they won't be a risk to their family members," said State Assemblyman Robert Rivas.
Assemblyman Rivas wrote a letter to California Governor Gavin Newsom saying in part: "I fear this is just the beginning, and that – without further and immediate action – California will soon have large outbreaks debilitating to our food supply."
This week, Governor Newsom announced a plan to add 80 test sites across the state, but local lawmakers say that may not be enough.
"One testing site and this expectation that they're going to go to that testing site, that's not going to work," said Rivas.
"Part of that plan should be we're going to make some extra testing kits in agricultural counties available so their health officers and their health department can make that testing easily available to them," said Alejo.
Assemblyman Rivas is proposing a package of bills in the state legislature that would provide COVID-19 relief specifically for farmworkers.
PREVIOUS ARTICLE: Monterey County health officials said agricultural workers are over represented among local COVID-19 cases.
They said 41 people, about 25% of those who have tested positive, identified themselves as working in the agriculture industry. They could be farmworkers or people working in packing, sheds or transportation.
Officials believe they are seeing more cases there because they may spend a lot of time with coworkers, work in close proximity for long periods of time or live in large households.
Dr. Ed Moreno said there is no evidence of a spike in cases in Monterey County and that the Shelter in Place order has decreased the ability of cases to double.
As of Friday morning, there were 164 confirmed cases and four deaths.
Avery Johnson
Avery Johnson is the Digital Content Director at KION News Channel 5/46.
Josh Kristianto
Josh Kristianto is a weekend anchor and multi-media journalist at KION News Channel 5/46.


President Darwin Thornton called the meeting to order at 1 PM Tuesday the 14th. He welcomed the 54 members who signed in and one guest. An unofficial count tallied 84 people total, in attendance.
During the "Wait 'til You Hear What I Found" segment, one of our members described a summer's visit to her spouse's family home where she photographed 700-plus gravestones at a local cemetery and is busy posting them to Findagrave.com.
The Federation of Genealogical Societies (FGS) conference is scheduled for Feb. 11-14, 2015 in Salt Lake City. Details and registration forms are on the back table.
The minutes of the May 13, 2014 meeting were approved as posted on our website May 15th.
The September 2014 Treasurer's Report, posted Oct. 7th, will be filed for audit. Also, the Club's annual audit report came back just fine.
Membership – Mary Barr reported there are 160-plus current members.
Ancestral Search/Monitor Training – Joan Allen had no news. Monitor volunteers are always welcome.
Field Trips – Darwin reported for Joan Eddy. No field trips are scheduled, however, contact Karen Haider if you are attending the Family History Conference in Tempe on Oct. 25th and wish to carpool.
Hospitality – Judy Fairchild/Shari Norris – Judy thanked those who brought refreshments today. Volunteers are needed for November's meeting, and for early 2015.
Display Case – Sue Huffer asked members to provide old Christmas/holiday greeting cards for December's display. Email Sue, or leave the cards with your contact information in Sue's drawer in the computer lab room. The cards will be returned to the lenders.
Genealogy Room Photos – Karen Jonaitis accepts copies (not originals) of old family photos, preferably 4X6, with names of the individuals, dates if known, location, other information of interest, and your name and contact information. The photos can be dropped off at Karen's drawer in the computer room.
Library – Mike Carroll asked for members who may have library experience to volunteer for the Library Committee. Also, member suggestions for books to be added to the library inventory are always welcome. Just send him an email.
Programs – Karen Haider announced that volunteers are needed in Jan. 2015 to begin developing programs for the 2015-2016 season.
Legacy SIG meets Wed. Oct. 15th at 1 PM in room #3 across from our computer lab.
Family Tree Maker SIG meets Wed. Oct. 22nd at 9:30 AM in the Catalina Vista Room.
Beginner's Class – Barb Krecklow said the class, beginning in Jan. 2015, is full but emphasized that things change, so anyone interested in attending is urged to sign the waitlist.
Darwin asked all members to verify that their email addresses are correct on the club roster.
Mike Carroll reported on SignUp Genius, the online method of scheduling monitors and viewing the computer room schedule. SIGs are welcome to use SignUp Genius to reserve use of the Havasu Room (our library). Reminder: SignUp Genius is accessed from the SCVGS website, by clicking on the link on the right side of the web page.
Darwin reported that new wall art is being considered for the computer lab room. Member Christine Takerian has created three samples which are hanging on the wall now. Members are urged to give input to Darwin (by email).
Darwin announced the Board had approved an upgrade to the existing MAC computer in the lab room. From a show of hands at today's meeting, about 10% are MAC users. A refurbished, updated system may cost over the $500 ceiling that can be spent without member approval. A motion to spend up to $1000 was seconded. Discussion followed. The upgrade was approved by a hand vote. The Computer Club will be consulted regarding equipment options.
Sue Huffer urged all members to consider volunteering on the many committees that make up our club.
The meeting was adjourned at 1:40 PM.


Nike Flex TR 7. Nike designed the Flex TR 7 to help you train in style and comfort. The upper is crafted from lightweight mesh that's breathable so you can test your limits for longer, while Flex outsole technology moves naturally with you for an almost barefoot feel. Rubber pods provide traction, and the foam midsole and padded collar take care of cushioning and provide a plush underfoot experience.In a bold raspberry hue, they're the perfect pair to add a fresh pop of colour to your all-black Nike training gear.


When it comes to sun porches, homeowners in Springfield, Illinois, know they can trust Patriot Sunrooms & Home Solutions to build a beautiful new addition that they can enjoy throughout the years. Patriot Sunrooms is a company that has helped countless homeowners make the most of their homes by creating spaces where they can appreciate the outdoor scenery with protection from uncomfortable outdoor temperatures, bugs, rain, and harmful UV rays.
We offer more than a dozen sunroom styles to choose from, enabling you to select the option that has the functionality and look you want.
Our sun porches are built with insulated walls and roofs, and we can also run HVAC service to your enclosure for added comfort.
You can choose to have your sunroom built with a glass roof that will let abundant natural light enter the enclosed space.
We can build a sunroom from scratch or add one around your patio or deck, so you can add a sunroom no matter the state of the outdoor area you want to enclose.
If you want the perfect new living space for entertaining guests, eating meals, watching TV, reading, and other activities, contact Patriot Sunrooms & Home Solutions today. We sell and install premium sun porches for homeowners in Springfield, IL, and surrounding areas.


Pristine Cleaning Cincinnati, Dayton, Columbus, Commercial Cleaning Services | We Clean It All!
pH is how you measure acidity and alkalinity of a solution. Basically if a cleaning solution you are using has a low pH number then it has a higher concentration of acidity in it. If the pH value of a chemical you are using has a higher number then it has a higher alkalinity to it. The pH scale consists of numbers from 0-14 with 7 being neutral. 1-4 is higher in acidity while 5-7 is neutral and 8-14 is alkaline. Here is a better way to look at it.
You can see why understanding pH balances is important. You would not want to use a high acid cleaner on a laminate counter top because it can discolor the surface. While if you use a high alkaline product you can get a hazy look if you do not rinse the surface thoroughly. The best product to use for everyday cleaning is a neutral disinfectant, designed for multiple surfaces. Now there will be times that a standard neutral disinfectant will not remove that stubborn grease on the lasagna pan. That is why you would need to look into a chemical that has more powerful surfactants in them. I will explain about using surfactants on my next blog.
Josh Reffitt has over 15 years of facility and custodial knowledge with in depth knowledge of school and commercial custodial services. He has a degree from Miami University in Business Management Technology and multiple certifications including Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), Quality Assurance Officer (QAO). He also possess multiple certifications in equipment and chemical usage. He has a history for being well known for improving methods in the custodial industry, facility repairs and many more. Josh has helped many businesses achieve cost-saving measures by reducing staff, product, and educating their employees in better techniques of safety and cleaning processes and procedures.
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[New York Times] A Historic Regular Season Without a Title Often Rings Hollow (Tue, 05 Apr 2016 06:21:41 GMT)
Golden State, take note. Putting together a historic regular-season is only half the battle for teams trying to etch out a spot in the annals of sports immortality.
[New York Times] Dramatic Buzzer-Beater Earns Villanova NCAA Title (Tue, 05 Apr 2016 05:30:27 GMT)
Kris Jenkins buried a buzzer-beating three-pointer to lift Villanova to a thrilling 77-74 upset victory over North Carolina in the U.S. college basketball championship game in Houston on Monday.
[New York Times] Dramatic Late Basket Earns Villanova NCAA Title (Tue, 05 Apr 2016 03:51:28 GMT)
Kris Jenkins buried a buzzer-beating three-pointer to lift Villanova to a thrilling 77-74 upset victory over North Carolina in the NCAA Final to win the U.S. college basketball championship in Houston on Monday.
[New York Times] N.B.A. Roundup: LeBron James Passes Robertson as Cavs Edge Hawks (Tue, 05 Apr 2016 00:40:06 GMT)
James scored 29 points, passing another Hall of Famer on the N.B.A.'s career scoring list, and the Cleveland Cavaliers edged the Atlanta Hawks, 110-108.
[New York Times] With 2 Games vs Warriors This Week, How Will Spurs Play It? (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 07:00:41 GMT)
The biggest mystery surrounding the Golden State Warriors' run at history is how motivated San Antonio will be to stop it.
[New York Times] Boston Celtics Survive Kobe Bryant's 34, Beat Lakers 107-100 (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 05:18:39 GMT)
After 20 years, two NBA Finals meetings and countless major moments, Kobe Bryant cherishes the history and tradition of the Los Angeles Lakers' rivalry with the Boston Celtics.
[New York Times] Pelicans 106, Nets 87: Nets Fall to New Orleans as New Pelican Shines (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 04:28:15 GMT)
The Nets lost their fifth straight game after announcing that Brook Lopez and Thaddeus Young would sit out the rest of the season.
[New York Times] Curry Pours in 39 as Warriors Trounce Trail Blazers (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 04:21:27 GMT)
The Golden State Warriors play so well after they lose, it makes one wonder why they don't do it more often.
[New York Times] N.B.A. Roundup: Pacers Blow Lead but Hold Off Knicks to Move Into Seventh in East (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 03:55:06 GMT)
The Indiana Pacers beat the Knicks, 92-87, at Madison Square Garden on Sunday night to tie for seventh place in the Eastern Conference.
[New York Times] Warriors Rebound From Rare Home Loss to Beat Blazers 136-111 (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 03:36:48 GMT)
The pain of a rare home loss disappeared quickly for Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors. Just like the other seven defeats this season, it was followed with yet another win.
[New York Times] George Hits Go-Ahead Shot, Pacers Edge Knicks to Tie for 7th (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 02:21:44 GMT)
Paul George returned from an injured ankle to make the tiebreaking jumper with 23.6 seconds left, and the Indiana Pacers beat the New York Knicks 92-87 on Sunday night to tie for seventh place in the Eastern Conference.
[New York Times] Without Irving, Cavs Hold Off Hornets (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 02:18:27 GMT)
LeBron James said it felt like playing three games in three nights, yet as the Cleveland Cavaliers have for most of the season, they passed the test.
[New York Times] Jimmy Butler Scores 25 Points, Bulls Hold Off Bucks 102-98 (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 01:42:52 GMT)
Jimmy Butler scored 25 points on 10-of-11 shooting, Pau Gasol had 16 points and eight rebounds and the Chicago Bulls held off a second-half surge by the Milwaukee Bucks for a 102-98 win Sunday night.
[New York Times] Hayward's 22 Helps Jazz Keep Pace in West With Win Over Suns (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 01:06:54 GMT)
Gordon Hayward led five Utah players in double figures with 22 points, and the Jazz boosted their playoff chances with a 101-86 win over the Phoenix Suns on Sunday.
[New York Times] Grizzlies Fall to Magic 119-107 for Sixth Straight Loss (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 01:00:57 GMT)
Nikola Vucevic scored 25 points off the bench, Victor Oladipo and Evan Fournier added 22 points each and the Orlando Magic topped the struggling Memphis Grizzlies 119-107 on Sunday night.
[New York Post] Don't tell Kristaps Porzingis his season is over (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 00:36:21 -0400)
Kristaps Porzingis ain't done yet. Porzingis hasn't given up on his rookie season, showing progress with his right-shoulder strain by lifting his arm over his head in a demonstration for reporters in the Knicks' locker room before they played host to the Pacers Sunday night. The rookie phenom wasn't able to do that in Dallas…
[New York Post] Rambis' strange rant: Demoting Afflalo will help his wallet (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 00:28:08 -0400)
Kurt Rambis went from Arron Afflalo's coach to his agent for one weird, brief moment after Sunday's 92-87 loss to the Pacers. Afflalo scored 13 of his 15 points in the fourth quarter, nearly spearheading an improbable comeback victory. Afflalo had been embroiled in a rift of sorts with Rambis, who demoted him to the…
[New York Daily News] Carmelo Anthony among Knicks starters to sit in latest loss (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 05:29:43 GMT)
The Knicks haven't shut down their season yet. At least not officially.
[New York Daily News] Isola: Carmelo Anthony 'resting' is trend among NBA stars (Mon, 04 Apr 2016 05:07:10 GMT)
Carmelo Anthony received what was referred to as a "rest" day on Sunday.
[New York Daily News] Facing Pacers a reminder of when Knicks' tailspin began (Sun, 03 Apr 2016 02:25:37 GMT)
The beginning of the end for Carmelo Anthony's best season in New York took place in a loss to the Pacers.
[New York Times] McCollum Has 24 Points, Blazers Beat Heat 110-93 (Sun, 03 Apr 2016 04:57:37 GMT)
C.J. McCollum had 24 points and made all six of his 3-point attempts to help the Portland Trail Blazers beat the Miami Heat 110-93 Saturday night for their seventh straight home win.
[New York Times] Aldridge, Leonard Lead Spurs to Franchise Record 64th Win (Sun, 03 Apr 2016 04:36:41 GMT)
The San Antonio Spurs got exactly what they were hoping for against the Toronto Raptors — a scare.
[New York Times] Pistons Edge Bulls in Chicago to Boost Playoff Hopes (Sun, 03 Apr 2016 04:18:27 GMT)
Reggie Jackson had 22 points and Tobias Harris had 21 to lead the Detroit Pistons, who got double-figures scoring from all five starters, to a 94-90 win against the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night at the United Center.
[New York Times] North Carolina Set Up Villanova Meet for U.S. College Title (Sun, 03 Apr 2016 04:12:27 GMT)
North Carolina will play in their 10th NCAA men's basketball championship game in Houston on Monday after beating Syracuse 83-66 to set up a final against the Villanova Wildcats.
[New York Times] Gay Scores 25 Points, Kings Rally to Beat Nuggets 115-106 (Sun, 03 Apr 2016 03:36:45 GMT)
Rudy Gay had 25 points and nine rebounds, Seth Curry scored 17 points and the Sacramento Kings beat the Denver Nuggets 115-106 on Saturday night to sweep the three-game season series.
[New York Times] Spurs Fend Off Raptors to Keep Home Record (Sun, 03 Apr 2016 03:24:27 GMT)
Kawhi Leonard scored a career-high 33 points, eight of which came in final minute, as San Antonio thwarted a determined upset bid by the Toronto Raptors in a 102-95 win on Saturday night that allowed the Spurs to remain unbeaten at home.
[New York Times] Jackson, Harris Lift Pistons Over Bulls 94-90 (Sun, 03 Apr 2016 02:54:38 GMT)
Reggie Jackson scored 22 points, Tobias Harris added 21 and the Detroit Pistons overcame Jimmy Butler's first career triple-double to beat the Chicago Bulls 94-90 on Saturday night.
[New York Times] Miles, Pacers Rally Past 76ers 115-102 (Sun, 03 Apr 2016 02:24:42 GMT)
C.J. Miles scored 25 points, including a go-ahead 3-pointer with 3:39 left, and the Indiana Pacers rallied to beat the short-handed Philadelphia 76ers 115-102 on Saturday night.
[New York Daily News] Isola: It's time for Knicks to shut Kristaps Porzingis down (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 03:54:15 GMT)
The Knicks aren't prepared, at least not publicly, to declare Kristaps Porzingis finished for the season so we'll do it for them.
[New York Daily News] Porzingis sits out again as lowly Knicks trounce lowly Nets (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 01:56:24 GMT)
The Garden was dull Friday night, and it certainly had a lot to do with the lowly Knicks and Nets facing off for the final time this year.
[New York Times] Celtics Hold On to End Warriors' 54-Game Home Winning Streak (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 06:27:27 GMT)
Isaiah Thomas scored all 22 of his points in the second half, including a driving layup with 8.3 seconds remaining, as the Boston Celtics ended the Golden State Warriors' 54-game home winning streak with a 109-106 stunner on Friday.
[New York Times] Warriors' Home Winning Streak Ends at 54 in Loss to Celtics (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 06:03:38 GMT)
Everybody expected Stephen Curry to make the 3 from way out with the clock winding down, just as he always does.
[New York Times] Celtics 109, Warriors 106: Celtics End Warriors' 54-Game Home Winning Streak (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 05:31:40 GMT)
Stephen Curry's missed 3-point attempt with 5.3 seconds left sealed Golden State's first regular-season loss at Oracle Arena since January 2015. The Warriors fell to 68-8 this season.
[New York Times] Morris Shines in Return to Phoenix, Wizards Dump Suns 106-99 (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 05:18:44 GMT)
Markieff Morris overcame a rude welcome in his Phoenix return by scoring 21 points and helping the Washington Wizards beat the Suns 106-99 Friday night in a much-needed victory for their playoff hopes.
[New York Times] Heat Blow Big Lead, but Hold On to Beat Kings 112-106 (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 05:03:45 GMT)
Luol Deng made a 3-pointer with 45.7 seconds left and the Miami Heat held on to beat the Sacramento Kings 112-106 on Friday night, avoiding a second straight late-game collapse.
[New York Times] LeBron James' 29 Points Lead Cavs Past Hawks, 110-108 in OT (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 04:27:39 GMT)
After leading by 21 points in the first half, the Cleveland Cavaliers were pushed past regulation by the Atlanta Hawks.
[New York Times] Hayward Scores 22, Jazz Defeat Timberwolves 98-85 (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 04:18:39 GMT)
The pressure was on the Utah to keep pace in the Western Conference playoff race after the Dallas Mavericks beat the Detroit Pistons on Friday night. The Jazz have six games left and can't afford to drop games against teams that have struggled all season.
[New York Times] Sports Briefing | College Basketball: Jamal Murray Will Enter N.B.A. Draft (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 04:13:30 GMT)
Kentucky guard Jamal Murray will enter the N.B.A. draft, the first of several Wildcats who may turn professional.
[New York Times] N.B.A. Roundup: LeBron James Passes Robertson as Cavs Edge Hawks (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 04:04:43 GMT)
[New York Times] Knicks 105, Nets 91: With Little Up for Grabs, Knicks Defeat Nets (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 03:44:43 GMT)
The Knicks won at the Garden in a game between two teams going nowhere.
[New York Times] Barea's 29 Points Lead Dallas to 98-89 Win Over Pistons (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 03:27:50 GMT)
J.J. Barea scored 29 points and Dirk Nowitzki added 19 as the Dallas Mavericks beat the Detroit Pistons 98-89 on Friday night.
[New York Times] DeRozan, Lowry Lead Raptors Past Grizzlies 99-95 (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 03:15:52 GMT)
DeMar DeRozan scored 27 points, Kyle Lowry added 22, and Toronto Raptors held off the Memphis Grizzlies for a 99-95 victory on Friday night.
[New York Times] Raptors Edge Weakened Grizzlies in Memphis (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 03:09:27 GMT)
DeMar DeRozan scored 27 points, Kyle Lowry added 22 and Jonas Valanciunas led a strong defensive effort that carried the Toronto Raptors to a 99-95 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday night at FedExForum.
[New York Times] Parker's Driving Layup Carries Bucks Past Magic 113-110 (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 03:03:55 GMT)
Jabari Parker made a driving basket with 10.1 seconds left to put Milwaukee ahead and Tyler Ennis hit two free throws that sealed the Bucks' 113-110 win over the Orlando Magic on Friday night.
[New York Times] Walker Scores 27, Hornets Defeat 76ers 100-91 (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 02:33:43 GMT)
When the Philadelphia 76ers clawed back to within four points with five minutes left to play, Kemba Walker and the Charlotte Hornets just dug a little deeper.
[New York Times] Knicks Beat Nets 105-91 to Split Season Series (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 02:00:53 GMT)
Langston Galloway scored 14 of his 18 points in the fourth quarter and the New York Knicks beat the Brooklyn Nets 105-91 on Friday night to split the season series with their city rival.
[New York Post] What's left for Knicks and Nets? Playing for pride — and jobs (Sat, 02 Apr 2016 02:41:19 -0400)
Give Nets interim coach Tony Brown some credit for being brutally honest. When asked by The Post whether Friday night's game at the Garden had any extra meaning because it was Knicks vs. Nets, he didn't sugar coat the dire situation for both teams. "It's two teams not going to the playoffs. I don't know…
2015-16 Game Thread: Knicks vs. Nets
23 Comments on 2015-16 Game Thread: Knicks vs. Nets
The Knicks take on the Nets in a game that makes Jerian Grant's debut as a starting point guard for the Knicks due to Jose Calderon perhaps being out for the rest of the season.
The Nets are shockingly kind of fun to watch now, so even with Porzingis out, this might actually be a fun game to watch.
Always fun to watch the Lopez twins play each other.
Let's go, Knicks! The meaningless winning streak begins soon!
[New York Times] In Fightball, Basketball Is Stripped Down to a Gladiator Sport (Fri, 01 Apr 2016 10:00:34 GMT)
The concept seeks to merge a tough, one-on-one street game with a slick nightclub vibe.
[New York Times] Durant Drives Thunder to Win Over Undermanned Clippers (Fri, 01 Apr 2016 05:09:36 GMT)
Kevin Durant scored 31 points to lead Oklahoma City to a 119-117 victory over the Los Angeles Clippers on Thursday at the Chesapeake Energy Arena.
[New York Times] Aminu Leads Trail Blazers to 116-109 Win Over Celtics (Fri, 01 Apr 2016 05:06:39 GMT)
Al-Farouq Aminu scored a career-high 28 points, including a career-best six 3-pointers, and the Portland Trail Blazers extended their winning streak at home to a season-high six games with a 116-109 victory over the Boston Celtics on Thursday night.
[New York Times] Adams' Late Basket Lifts Thunder Past Clippers 119-117 (Fri, 01 Apr 2016 04:33:42 GMT)
Kevin Durant scored 31 points, Steven Adams hit a go-ahead tip-in with 26.9 seconds left and the Oklahoma City Thunder held on to avoid a potentially embarrassing loss, edging the depleted Los Angeles Clippers 119-117 on Thursday night.
[New York Times] N.B.A. Roundup: LeBron James Moves Up Scoring List as Cavs Beat Nets (Fri, 01 Apr 2016 04:27:12 GMT)
LeBron James scored 24 points to pass Dominique Wilkins, and the Cleveland Cavaliers beat the Nets, 107-87.
[New York Times] Roundup: Boston's Pablo Sandoval Loses Job at Third (Fri, 01 Apr 2016 03:58:12 GMT)
The Red Sox said third baseman Pablo Sandoval, in the second year of a five-year, $95-million deal, would begin the season on the bench, in favor of Travis Shaw, who made his big league debut in 2015.
[New York Times] Confident Cavaliers Shred Nets in Cleveland (Fri, 01 Apr 2016 03:30:28 GMT)
The Golden State Warriors might be marching to the best record in league history, but Kyrie Irving still believes the Cleveland Cavaliers are marching toward a championship.
[New York Times] James Scores 24, Moves to 12th on Scoring List in Cavs' Win (Fri, 01 Apr 2016 03:24:37 GMT)
LeBron James continues to move up the NBA's career scoring list, but he has more important matters on his mind.
[New York Times] Babbitt Leads Pelicans Past Nuggets 101-95 (Fri, 01 Apr 2016 03:00:44 GMT)
Luke Babbitt scored 22 points and Tim Frazier had 11 of his 17 points in the fourth quarter, leading the injury-riddled New Orleans Pelicans past the Denver Nuggets 101-95 on Thursday night.
[New York Times] Kings C Cousins Suspended for 1 Game for 16th Technical (Fri, 01 Apr 2016 02:21:34 GMT)
Sacramento Kings center DeMarcus Cousins has been suspended for one game by the NBA after picking up his 16th technical foul of the season.
[New York Times] Mirotic Scores 28 as Bulls Edge Rockets 103-100 (Fri, 01 Apr 2016 02:06:45 GMT)
Nikola Mirotic scored 28 points and Jimmy Butler added 21 to lead the Chicago Bulls to a 103-100 win over the Houston Rockets on Thursday night.
[New York Times] Magic Pull Out All Tricks to Pull Away From Pacers 114-94 (Fri, 01 Apr 2016 01:48:34 GMT)
Evan Fournier scored 25 points and Nikola Vucevic added 24 on Thursday night to lead the Orlando Magic past the Indiana Pacers 114-94.
[New York Times] Cavs' James Moves Into 12th Place on Career Scoring List (Fri, 01 Apr 2016 01:06:58 GMT)
LeBron James has moved past Dominique Wilkins into 12th place on the NBA's career scoring list.
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


text:
class AddBioToTalks < ActiveRecord::Migration
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    add_column :talks, :bio, :text, :default => "", :null => false
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redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


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Insurance industry: Political risk data is now also available for CRESTA zones
Karlsruhe, December 17th 2020: The MBI CONIAS global political risk data from Michael Bauer International GmbH are now also available for the CRESTA zones, which indicate the worldwide natural hazard zones. The combination of both products now maps the risk values for political and natural threats and supports the insurance industry in minimizing its risks.
Go to the press release and read more…
Please contact us for more information about political risk data and CRESTA zones!
Consistent data for European e-mobility solutions
A variety of data has to be taken into account for the development of e-mobility and charging infrastructure. At the same time, many companies are encountering difficulties in obtaining data for other European countries besides Germany. MBI provides globally consistent and comparable data for well-founded potential analyses and thus supports companies on their way to electromobility.
Karlsruhe, December 2nd 2020: The most valuable basis for mastering the challenges of electromobility is high-quality data and their analysis. MBI's European e-mobility data bundle supports analysts and planners of distribution networks, planners of public and private charging infrastructure, the automotive industry and retailers in designing future mobility concepts.
Depending on the industry, the issues vary and have to be answered with different data solutions. These include the origin and destination of drivers, but also how long they stay at a particular location. Sociodemographic issues relating to the affinity for electromobility also play a major role.
MBI's data portfolio includes, amongst others, data on households by type and sociodemography. Further insights are provided by data on market segmentation and target group definition of consumers as well as the behavior of target groups, their movement patterns, whereabouts and duration of stay. Knowing about the milieu affiliation of the population also has many advantages for targeting, since most decisions are made under the influence of lifestyle and social milieu.
This information can be enriched with additional data such as vehicle inventory data. Available for numerous European countries, they contain important technical insights such as the fuel type for over 97% of vehicles. As HERE Technologies Distributor, MBI also offers location data for charging stations for many countries around the world.
MBI Sales Director Andreas Wenzel says: "The energy sector and the automotive industry are in the midst of major changes. Markets and target groups have to be analyzed, potentials localized and sales activities and infrastructures carefully planned. With the right data, many of these questions can be answered faster and more reliably. The combination of MBI's extensive expertise and our globally consistent and comparable data provides our customers with a precise basis for decisive planning for the future."
Please contact us for more information on our e-mobility data portfolio!
Go to the press release and read more about MBI European e-mobility solutions…
What international conflict situation has Joe Biden to expect?
MBI's up-to-date data provide information on the political risk situation and support companies in identifying risks for location, logistics and investment security at an early stage and in developing targeted adaptation strategies.
Karlsruhe, November 19th 2020: Whether the USA will once again assume their role as "the world's policeman" under Joe Biden is currently unclear – but there are more than enough national and international crises. With the MBI CONIAS analysis tool for global political conflicts, Michael Bauer International GmbH continuously examines the data situation on political risks.
Find out more about MBI Political Risk Data in our press release…
Public Sector: MBI offers attractive licensing models for routable road network from HERE Technologies
The map shows an examplary illustration for construction sites in Karlsruhe, Germany.
Karlsruhe, November 12th 2020: Michael Bauer International GmbH, one of the largest global data providers with headquarters in Karlsruhe and a certified HERE Technologies Distributor, offers optimized and adapted licensing models for the needs and requirements of the public sector and educational use.
HERE Technologies' routable maps that are used in over 150 million vehicles can support cities and municipalities, public sector, universities and non-profit organizations in meeting their current and future challenges.
CARTO joins the MBI partner network
Purchasing Power for Bologna, Italy with CARTOframes and MBI Data
Number of Households for Osaka, Japan with CARTOframes and MBI Data
Karlsruhe, July 2nd, 2020: CARTO is now a reseller for MBI's globally consistent and comparable geodata. In today's rapidly changing economy, being able to access and analyze global high-quality spatial data is fundamental to organizations using location intelligence. With thousands of organizations adapting to the impact of the "new normal", analysts in a wide range of industries need more data than ever to keep their finger on the pulse as consumer behavior evolves faster than ever before.
Find out more about MBI's partnership with CARTO in our press release…
Updates 2020 – Global boundaries, purchasing power and socio-demographic data for Europe
SHIFTING FROM ASSUMPTIONS TO EVIDENCE-BASED DECISIONS WITH GEODATA FROM MICHAEL BAUER INTERNATIONAL GMBH
Karlsruhe, May 18th 2020: The focus of the 2020 release of the global boundaries was the development of new micro boundaries as well as the adaptation of the administrative and postal boundaries in compliance to the current area vintage. In line with this, the purchasing power and socio-demographic data for Europe have been updated based on the latest statistics.
As a dynamic product, geodata constantly change…
Find out more about MBI Updates in our press release…
Michael Bauer International GmbH (MBI) appointed as one of the first HERE Distributors
Karlsruhe – HERE Technologies, a global leader in mapping and location platform services, has signed a distributorship agreement with MBI, one of the largest international data providers with its headquarters in Karlsruhe, Germany. This extends the long-running partnership over the last 10 years between the companies with MBI as one of the fastest growing HERE partners.
ONLINE-SHOPPING AFFINITY INDEX
Karlsruhe, March 2nd, 2020: Michael Bauer International GmbH (MBI) created a new product to analyze the online-shopping activity and affinity of an area.
Over and above the standard MBI data offering of socio-economic data which enabling the identification of areas with high population or purchasing power, the company has developed an additional product, named Online-Shopping Affinity. The Online-Shopping Affinity is an index, which is currently available for over 80 countries. This can be used to identify target groups with a high affinity for online-shopping and is also perfect for the analysis of digital awareness e.g. car sharing, e-mobility and electronics.
The data is currently used in many different business applications: in retail e-commerce to identify target groups for online-shopping, in advertising to identify geofencing areas for online shopping, in logistics to optimize delivery networks and streaming services to access market potential for expansion.
GLOBAL DAYTIME POPULATION DENSITY
Karlsruhe, July 26, 2019: MB-International extends its global data offering by Global Daytime Population indicators. Now companies can get information about the size of population that is present in a given area during the day.
Mr. Roberts-York, Managing Director of Michael Bauer International says: "This new indicator for consumer base is significant for planners in retail, insurances, advertising, marketing and site location planning. It gives a better representation of where people are located during an average day."
Global Updates: Postcode Boundary Maps and Administrative Area Maps
Karlsruhe, June 21, 2019: The latest release 2019 of MB-International's global area boundaries comes with numerous territorial changes. Especially on the African continent but also in Asia, Europe and North America.
Every year there are several changes at postal and administrative area levels. The new released boundary update now contains all revisions. Companies can use the current data in many different aspects of business applications for example in Geomarketing, Social Media Marketing or Business Intelligence.


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Webinar: Challenges on specific surface area analysis of cellulosic materialsJohn Dowd2020-11-20T16:11:46+00:00
Challenges on specific surface area analysis of cellulosic materials
Time: 10:00 BST (11:00 CEST) & 11:00 EDT (USA)
Duration: 25 minutes + Q&A
Dr. Anett Kondor
iGC-SEA Product Manager & iGC Specialist
The interaction of a solid with its surroundings is through the available surface area for adsorption of gas or vapour molecules. This also allows probing of materials' surface including irregularities and pores. One of the most successful methods is based on the BET method for gas adsorption onto a solid surface. The adsorption method of Brunauer, Emmett, and Teller (BET) is based on the physical adsorption of a vapour or gas onto the surface of a solid. Traditionally, sorption studies were carried out at low temperatures to obtain nitrogen isotherms at 77 K, which were then used to calculate BET surface areas. Considering that material behavior varies with temperature, measurements at ambient temperatures may be more relevant and also allow the use of various gases and vapours.
The present study is devoted to a critical investigation of the specific surface area analysis of cellulosic materials, such as freeze-dried bacterial cellulose, cellulose nanopaper and crystalline cellulose powder, by gas and vapour adsorption using dynamic vapour sorption (DVS) technique, volumetric technique and inverse Gas Chromatographic (iGC) technique. Inorganic materials including the specific surface area standard materials can be successfully measured with these techniques, however, the applicability of these techniques on organic materials have to be appraised.
About the presenter:
Anett Kondor, PhD is the iGC-SEA Product Manager and Product Specialist of Surface Measurement Systems. Since 2004, Anett has been working on gas chromatographic (GC and iGC) techniques. She studied chemical engineering at the University of Pannonia, Hungary where she received her MSc in Chemical Engineering, accredited by British Institution of Chemical Engineers, and her PhD in Chemistry and Environmental Science. She published several research work in peer-reviewed journals collaborating with research groups around the world (Deakin University – Australia, Composite Innovation Centre Canada, Teagasc Ireland, Boku University Austria, Liverpool John Moores University UK, Givaudan Switzerland and so on). Her research interest lies in the area of surface characterization of different solid materials and improvements in inverse gas chromatographic technique.


Miami, FL. —The Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County (DOH-Miami-Dade) today confirmed a locally-acquired case of Dengue in the Miami-Dade County community. DOH-Miami-Dade is working in conjunction with Miami-Dade County's Mosquito Control and Habitat Management Division which has implemented its response protocol to eliminate breeding and adult mosquito activity in the area of the confirmed case. Both agencies will continue surveillance and mosquito prevention efforts.
The Department continues to conduct statewide surveillance for mosquito-borne illnesses, including West Nile virus infections, Eastern equine encephalitis, St. Louis encephalitis, malaria, chikungunya and dengue. Residents of Florida are encouraged to report dead birds via the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's site - . For more information, visit DOH's website at http://www.floridahealth.gov/%5C/diseases-and-conditions/mosquito-borne-diseases/index.html or contact your county health department.


Objects of Desire is an annual photographic competition that highlights the best of still-life commercial and editorial work, in addition to fine-art and personal projects ranging from traditional still-life imagery, to product shots, conceptual projects and more.
Grand-prize winner Will Styer's image and all first-place winners have been published on the April issue of Photo District News (PDN) magazine for professional photographers.
Here's a selection of some of the best food-inspired and food-related winning images.


On Monday, January 21st, the Greenville Housing Authority offices will be closed in honor and recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. All offices will reopen on Tuesday, January 22, 2019.
In 1983 President Ronald Reagan signed legislation into law marking the birthday of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as a federal holiday. The first federal King Holiday was celebrated in 1986. In 1994 under President Bill Clinton's administration, Congress designated the Martin Luther King Jr. Federal Holiday as a national day of service and charged the Corporation for National and Community Service with leading this effort. Each year, on the third Monday in January, the MLK Day of Service is observed as a "day on, not a day off." MLK Day of Service is intended to empower individuals, strengthen communities, bridge barriers, create solutions to social problems, and move us closer to Dr. King's vision of a "Beloved Community."


People have asked me how I create the manuals of my packages, one has even asked me if I would write a document class similar to classicthesis. I am not going to do this but can provide my basic preamble settings. It is not very complicated, actually.
This loads the Linux Libertine O font as serif and Linux Biolinum O as sans serif. I quite dislike the Libertine teletype font, though, which is why I use Bitstream Vera Sans Mono instead.
There isn't much more to say, really. A simple preamble that does not justify the creation of a new document class.
After having said that: when I create manuals for my packages I indeed do use a custom class. I used to use my cnpkgdoc class but it needed a complete overhaul for a long time. This means I now consider it obsolete. I have written a more versatile bundle that provides much more flexibility: and that I will upload to CTAN eventually: cnltx. I haven't actually any published any manual using the class, yet. The next update of any of my packages will be the first. cnltx.


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KTLA 5 Morning News
Millions of low-income Californians would receive $600 checks under $9.6 billion COVID-19 aid package
by: Associated Press, Ellina Abovian, Mark Mester
Posted: Feb 18, 2021 / 05:04 AM PST
Updated: Feb 18, 2021 / 01:24 PM PST
Millions of low-income Californians would receive $600 checks under a $9.6 billion coronavirus aid package announced by Gov. Gavin Newsom and legislative leaders.
The plan announced Wednesday would cut checks to about 5.7 million people who earn less than $30,000 per year, as well as some immigrants living in the country illegally who were excluded from federal COVID-19 relief payments made during the Trump administration.
The plan also provides a new round of small business grants and more housing assistance for farmworkers infected by the virus.
The plan "will help those who are hurting most," Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon said in a joint statement. "We are building an economic foundation for the recovery of jobs, small businesses and, indeed, our everyday lives."
The Legislature plans to quickly take up the measure, with votes expected as early as Monday after budget committee hearings starting Thursday. Legislators are hoping that money for some of the largest segments of the plan can be distributed in April.
The plan calls for more money than Newsom proposed in his state budget last month, due in part to state revenues that came in more than $10 billion higher than expected.
About 5.7 million low-income residents would be eligible for one-time payments. Those getting $600 include households that received a California earned income tax credit in 2020. That carries the biggest price tag in the relief package, at $2.3 billion.
Immigrants and others who lack Social Security Numbers but have Individual Tax Identification Numbers, income below $75,000 and were ineligible for recent federal payments would get $600 — boosted to $1,200 if they also qualify for the California earned income tax credit.
The plan also widens Newsom's original plan by providing payments to some people who receive supplemental income under various state and federal programs, including immigrants and people who are 65 or older, blind or disabled.
California lawmakers reach spending deal for coronavirus …
The timing of those payments is being worked out with federal officials.
For small businesses affected by the pandemic, the package quadruples to more than $2 billion in money available for grants of up to $25,000. Newsom last month had recommended adding $500 million to the program but state lawmakers thought that figure was too small.
More half the 120-member Legislature signed on to a proposal to put $2.6 billion of California's unanticipated revenue into one-time grants for small businesses and nonprofits.
Also under the new plan, more than 750,000 small businesses would be able to deduct on their state taxes up to $150,000 in loans they received under the Paycheck Protection Plan. The same ceiling would also apply to firms that received Economic Injury Disaster Loans, amounting to a combined $2 billion in tax cuts.
About 59,000 restaurants and bars would separately get two years of waived annual license fees that can range from $455 to $1,235. More than 600,000 barbering and cosmetology individuals and businesses will also be able to keep their usual licensing fees for two years.
"People are hungry and hurting, and businesses our communities have loved for decades are at risk of closing their doors," Senate President pro Tempore Toni Atkins said in lauding the agreement.
Additional money also will be allotted for state-subsidized child care and preschool providers that collectively serve about 400,000 children, as well as low-income students in the University of California, California State University and California Community College systems.
Finally, a fresh $24 million would be provided for a program that puts farm and food processing workers up in hotels if they contract the virus and have no place to isolate, Newsom said Wednesday as he spoke at a community vaccination clinic in the Coachella Valley, a region that's home to many farmworkers.
The governor's visit to the Coachella Valley was his latest stop in a tour around the state to highlight vaccination efforts as California's virus numbers continue to improve. The state's test positivity rate, hospitalizations and deaths are all down, and the rate of people spreading the virus to others is now at its lowest in months.
California has now administered more than 6 million vaccines, but the rollout has been slow and rocky and demand continues to far exceed supply. The state is in the process of shifting to a new distribution system run by insurer Blue Shield, which will take some decision-making power away from counties.
Beloved street vendor killed by suspected DUI driver


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Richard Webster (born 9 July 1967) is a Welsh former dual-code international rugby union and rugby league footballer who played in the 1980s and 1990s, and coached rugby union in the 2010s. In 1993 he toured New Zealand with the British & Irish Lions rugby union team and at the time played club rugby for Swansea RFC. In 1995 he switched to rugby league to play  for Salford Reds, and appeared in the 1995 Rugby League World Cup. In 1996 he returned to union and signed for Bath Rugby. At Bath he started in the victorious 1998 Heineken Cup Final as they defeated Brive.

In 2011 Webster was appointed head coach of the Wales national under-20 rugby union team following the departure of Darren Edwards.

References

External links

1967 births
Living people
Bath Rugby players
British & Irish Lions rugby union players from Wales
Dual-code rugby internationals
Rugby union flankers
Rugby league players from Swansea
Rugby union players from Swansea
Salford Red Devils players
Swansea RFC players
Wales international rugby union players
Wales national rugby league team players
Welsh rugby league players
Welsh rugby union coaches
Welsh rugby union players

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaWikipedia


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Les lutins statisticiens de WordPress.com ont préparé le rapport annuel 2014 de ce blog.
En voici un extrait :
Le Concert Hall de l'Opéra de Sydney peut contenir 2 700 personnes. Ce blog a été vu 9 100 fois en 2014. S'il était un concert à l'Opéra de Sydney, il faudrait environ 3 spectacles pour accueillir tout le monde.
Cliquez ici pour voir le rapport complet.
Novelist and Poet Omar Hazek: An Open Letter After a Year in Prison
BY MLYNXQUALEY on DECEMBER 29, 2014 • ( 3 )
Novelist and poet Omar Hazek was jailed on December 2, 2013, charged with violating Egypt's anti-protest law, a "crime" for which he is serving two years in prison. Yet he maintains more hope than most:This letter initially ran in Al-Masry al-Youm. Hazek's family gave permission for an English translation.
"The Interview" Belittles North Korea, But is Film's Backstory and U.S. Policy the Real Farce?
CLICK ON IMAGE
Freedom for Palestine: #GazaNames Project
[youtube http://youtu.be/pxDYiBls99w?]
On Nir Rosen's Definitions of 'Sectarian' and 'Secular'
December 23, 2014 § Leave a comment
by Thomas Pierret
Foreign Policy just published an article by David Kenner about a report on the Syrian conflict written for the US government by Nir Rosen, an ex-journalist currently working as a special adviser for conflict-resolution NGO Humanitarian Dialogue.
For several months, Rosen has been promoting an approach to the resolution of the Syrian conflict that shifts away from political transition in favour of local truces, a stance that is not dissimilar to UN Special Envoy Staffan de Mistura's suggestion to "freeze" the conflict.
For many reasons, I do not think that this approach is in any way promising, but my concern here is different: it is rather the distinctly pro-Asad flavour of Rosen's assessment of the conflict, which makes his piece look like an attempt at whitewashing the regime's crimes, or to put it like Kenneth Roth from Human Rights Watch did it on Twitter, at sugarcoating deliberate mass-murder.
Rosen likes to remind his interlocutors that he has spent most of the last three years in Syria, speaking to people from all sides. This might be part of the problem: he seems to have spent so much time with regime officials that he is now speaking exactly like them.
Rosen's report includes an old Stalinist trope about the Asads' achievements in terms of health, education and infrastructure, an argument even the most obtuse defenders of the regime have started handling with care after the regime started to deliberately destroy much of its own infrastructures to make life impossible in rebel-held areas. In the same vein, Rosen claims that the Syrian regime was not the worst in the region before 2011. This is seriously debatable: by 2010, an aggregate index combining state repression and human development would certainly have placed Syria at the bottom of the regional ranking.
Then comes the breaking news: the Syrian regime is not sectarian, it is even staunchly secular! According to Rosen, the regime's brutality towards the Sunni opposition "was done more out of a fear of Sunni sectarianism than as a result of the regime's own sectarianism (sic)". If Rosen is trying to tell us that the ruling clique in Damascus is not composed of sectarian ideologues, thanks, we knew that: Mafiosi are interested in power and money, not ideology. But that does not mean that their strategy cannot be deeply sectarian at the same time. The Syrian regime manipulated sectarian divides from day one. Does Rosen remember the first days of April 2011, when the Minister of Interior was branding the peaceful sit-in in Homs as a "Salafi Emirate"? Wasn't that a not-so-subtle way to raise sectarian fears among minorities? Or was the Minister speaking so "out of fear of Sunni sectarianism"? Does Rosen remember that a couple of days later, Alawite auxiliaries were sent to kill protesters on Homs' Clock Square? Did that also happen "out of fear of Sunni sectarianism"? Later that month, other Alawite militiamen were sent into the coastal village of al-Bayda, and filmed themselves tramping over the bodies of Sunni prisoners. An admirably non-sectarian move, once again! I had thought that faced with the same situation, a genuinely secular government would have sent uniformed security forces from other provinces rather than civilian auxiliaries from the rival local sect, but thanks to his three-year fieldwork expertise, Rosen redefined the whole concept of non-sectarianism: it means acting in a deeply sectarian manner while remaining staunchly secular in one's heart.
My favourite display of regime "secularism" is this June 2013 speech by Asad's head of security in Aleppo Muhammad Khaddur, who was trying to recruit Shia militiamen in the villages of Zahra and Nubbul by promising them he would "raise the flag of (Imam) Hussein over Munnagh airport". That was staggeringly non-sectarian, wasn't it? And of course, why would one think that a regime that is busy full-time recruiting sectarian militias from as far as Afghanistan is anything else than "non-sectarian in nature"?
I suppose that many of Rosen's skeptical readers will wonder about sectarian massacres such as al-Hula in 2012, and al-Bayda/Banyas the following year, in which hundreds of Sunni civilians were killed by Alawite shabbiha. Were they also carried out "out of fear of Sunni sectarianism"?
Rosen's report also includes the baffling claim that most rebels did not take up arms to defend themselves, but "out of religious zeal and political extremism". So, from 2011 on, tens of thousands of ordinary Syrians picked up arms in a context of bloody repression of demonstrations, mass round up and torture, followed by shelling and air bombing of civilians. By 2012, Rosen was writing, on the basis of his own observations, that by cordoning off their neighbourhoods, the rebels had allowed people to demonstrate without being shot at by security forces, which strikingly looks like a defensive move to me. But after two more years of meticulous research (was it in SANA's archives?), Rosen eventually managed to isolate the one main independent variable behind the militarisation of the uprising: it was "religious zeal and political extremism". It is that simple: why care about the context when you can make sweeping essentialist assumptions about Sunni extremism?
Thomas Pierret is a Lecturer in Contemporary Islam at the University of Edinburgh. He is the author of Religion and State in Syria (Cambridge University Press, 2013).
Should We Oppose the Intervention Against ISIS?
Kurdish fighters in the besieged Syrian city of Kobani prepare to fight against ISIS on November 7. The Kurds are receiving U.S. military aid. (Ahmed Deeb/AFP/Getty Images)
ACT LOCALLY » DECEMBER 18, 2014
Most U.S. leftists say yes. But voices we rarely hear—Kurds and members of the Syrian opposition—have more ambiguous views.
BY DANNY POSTEL
To consider ending the war, which is what all of us want, without considering what's at the root of this entire monstrosity—which is the Assad regime itself—is unacceptable.
ISIS (or ISIL, or the Islamic State) sent shock waves through the Middle East and beyond in June when it seized Mosul, Iraq's second-largest city. The organization has now laid claim to a swath of territory "stretching from Baghdad to Aleppo and from Syria's northern border to the deserts of Iraq in the south," in the words of Patrick Cockburn, author of The Jihadis Return: ISIS and the New Sunni Uprising.
In August, the United States assembled an international coalition (eventually including more than a dozen countries) to conduct a campaign of air strikes on ISIS positions in Iraq, coordinating with Iraqi and Kurdish Peshmerga forces. Then, in October, the coalition expanded the intervention into Syria, coordinating with Kurdish fighters on the Syrian-Turkish border and Free Syrian army forces.
American progressives have been relatively uniform in opposing the intervention against ISIS. But to most Kurds and many Syrian activists, the intervention is more welcome. Turkish and Syrian Kurds along the border watch the battles against ISIS from hilltops, breaking out in cheers and chanting, "Obama, Obama." Within the Syrian opposition, one finds a range of perspectives—some support intervention, others oppose it, and many, like the Syrian leftist intellectual Yassin al-Haj Saleh, are torn. In late September Saleh told me,
On the one hand, I would like to see this thuggish gang wiped from the face of the earth. ISIS is a criminal organization that has killed thousands of Syrians and Iraqis while leaving intact another criminal organization—the Assad regime—that is responsible for the deaths of close to 200,000 people. ISIS has destroyed the cause of the Syrian revolution as much as the Assad regime has destroyed our country and society. On the other hand, an attack against ISIS will send a message to many Syrians (and Iraqis and other Arabs) that this intervention isn't about seeking justice for heinous crimes, but is rather an attack against those who challenged Western powers. This will lead to more resentment against and suspicion of the outside world, which is the very nihilist mood on which ISIS capitalizes and profits.
Some Syrian activists question how committed the Kurds are to toppling the Syrian dictator. The Kurds, for their part, distrust Turkey, which supports the Syrian opposition. These debates and dynamics are mostly unknown to American progressives.
Given that ISIS and the intervention against it directly impact the peoples of the region, it behooves us to know what they have to say about it. So when In These Times asked me to convene a roundtable discussion on the ISIS intervention, I saw it as an opportunity to bridge this gap—to explore some of these contending perspectives and stimulate a conversation between U.S. progressives and some of our Syrian and Kurdish counterparts.
Richard Falk has been one of the leading voices of peace and human rights over the last half century. He was the UN's Special Rapporteur on Palestinian Human Rights and a member of the Independent International Commission on Kosovo. His blog, Global Justice in the 21st Century, is a constant source of thought-provoking and self-reflective analysis. His essay in The Syria Dilemma, the book I co-edited with Nader Hashemi, is among the most thoughtful and challenging arguments about the Syrian tragedy I have read.
The Kurdish region of Rojava in northern Syria has been likened to the Zapatista autonomous territories of Chiapas and has inspired international solidarity efforts with its experiment in democratic autonomy . The anarchist writer and activist David Graeber has written a forceful plea to stand with the beleaguered Kurds as they fight for their lives. With Graeber's help I reached out to Alan Semo, the UK representative of the Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD), to get his perspective on the ISIS intervention.
I also deemed it essential to include a Syrian opposition voice in the discussion. There has been and remains deep confusion about the Syrian conflict amongst many leftists. So I reached out to Rime Allaf, who serves on the board of directors of The Day After Project, an international working group of Syrians building toward a democratic transition in Syria. She is a former advisor to the president of the National Coalition of Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces and former Associate Fellow at London's Chatham House think tank.
There are few people I hold in higher regard than Rafia Zakaria, a lawyer, board member of Amnesty International USA, columnist for Al Jazeera America and the Pakistani newspaper Dawn, and the author of The Upstairs Wife: An Intimate History of Pakistan (forthcoming in February from Beacon Press). Rafia brings both an international human rights perspective and the painful knowledge of what U.S. military intervention, in the form of drone strikes, has wrought in her part of the world.
Richard, with only one or two exceptions (notably Kosovo), you have opposed U.S. military interventions for the past 50 years. As someone who has opposed those interventions as a champion of self-determination—especially self-determination for formerly colonized peoples—what do you make of the current U.S. intervention against ISIS? And specifically, the siege of Kobani and the Kurdish resistance against ISIS along the Turkish-Syrian border?
Richard: It's a tough question. We need to contextualize this a bit further. In my view, there is no basis for the United States to play a constructive role in this region. Its role in Iraq and Syria—much less, Israel, Palestine, Egypt and elsewhere in the region—figures into an overall strategy of dominating the region and supporting highly reactionary forces in the Gulf, particularly Saudi Arabia. The notion that the United States can be a liberating actor by narrowing the focus to one specific battle site isn't convincing to me. The plight of the Kurds in Kobani and their courage in resisting ISIS poses a tragic predicament that does challenge the kind of anti-interventionism that I feel is justified overall, particularly in the Middle East. But to overcome the presumption against military intervention, especially from the air, one needs very powerful evidence. And one needs a full-fledged diplomatic initiative, which I see lacking so long as Iran continues to be excluded from any effort to resolve the Syrian conflict. Like the drone attacks, the ISIS intervention doesn't seem designed to actually deal with the problem. Rather, it looks like a projection of U.S. power in the region.
Where do you stand on the intervention, Rafia?
Rafia: I oppose it. Look at what the U.S. has done in South Asia in the past ten years. As someone who has covereddrone attack after drone attack in Pakistan, I can tell you that the dynamics are very similar. When the U.S. began its drone campaign in north and south Waziristan, where the Taliban were headquartered, there was a lot of support from Pashtun tribal leaders, similar in a way to the current situation between the Kurds and ISIS. The narrative was that the drone attacks were empowering the indigenous people of area who were facing incursions from the Taliban. It's been beyond a miserable failure. The drone attacks have led to the displacement of hundreds of thousands of people. Whenever you have communities that are displaced—and this is precisely what is happening in Syria and Iraq as a result of ISIS incursions and the airstrikes against ISIS—their social mechanisms, their political allegiances, their forms of governance all collapse. Once that happens, those populations are far, far more vulnerable to being recruited by groups like ISIS. Or they become disenchanted with any effort to rebuild or organize. The consequence of intervention is displacement. And the consequence of displacement is further civil war, which is what you have in Pakistan right now.
Syrian activists have expressed a range of views on the intervention against ISIS. Rime, how do you see it?
Rime: I very much share the ambivalence of Yassin al-Haj Saleh. Many of us in the Syrian opposition do. Everything that has happened in Syria was predictable—and indeed was predicted. The rise of these Islamist terror groups…before they became an organized entity calling itself ISIS, they were smaller groups fighting in various areas in Iraq but mostly in Syria, where they had free reign because the only forces fighting them during roughly their first year on the scene [2013] were the Free Syrian Army. The FSA—the bulk of the Syrian armed opposition to the Assad regime—thus found itselffighting two very brutal forces, the Assad regime on one side and these Islamist groups on the other—and those two forces were not fighting each other. This is an essential point. It was inevitable that this would weaken the opposition and strengthen the regime. Because the Assad regime was not attacking this Islamist plague, it was to be expected that these terror groups would gain ground. They had help from al-Qaeda type groups in Iraq. Plus they had the advantage of their enemies [the FSA] being bombed relentlessly by the Syrian regime. So they gained strength.
Let's be very clear that for the longest time, the Syrian opposition was not asking for a "boots on the ground"-style intervention, or even for a bombing campaign led by the U.S. What was being requested early on was the establishment of humanitarian corridors with the help of a "no-fly-zone" and/or weapons for the FSA to defend liberated areas from the relentless barrel bombing campaign of the regime. Since none of this happened, it was to be expected that these Islamist groups have been able to gain so much ground and find themselves with a weakened opponent in the FSA. Now the Assad regime doesn't even need to worry about ISIS because it's got the U.S. fighting [ISIS].
Alan, where does the Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD), which you represent, stand on the U.S. intervention against ISIS? The PYD has opposed external military intervention in the Syrian conflict, but hasn't the Kurdish struggle against ISIS benefited from the coalition airstrikes?
Alan: I think the American-led international intervention against ISIS has been efficient. The Americans realized that the expansion of ISIS is serious and threatens the region—it has to be stopped and eliminated. The U.S. has been relying on air strikes alone, and they know they need troops on the ground. The forces on the ground fighting ISIS in northern Iraq and now in Kobani, in northern Syria, are Kurdish troops. They have been defending themselves very efficiently against ISIS, which is a real threat to the region. So I think eliminating this threat is the right step, both for the Syrian people and for regional security and stability.
Rime: From January roughly until the summer, what happened is that ISIS was allowed to spread its terror throughout the Jazira region of Syria without any intervention of any kind from outside Syria—or within Syria. The only people fighting them were the Free Syrian Army—alone, without ammunition. So I agree with Alan that the intervention is proving useful, but only up to a point. It is proving useful in a very limited area, and—this is critical—it is not tackling the origin of this plague, which is the Assad regime.
Alan: Now, Kurdish forces are working together with some sections of the Free Syrian Army and other forces in northern Syria.
The Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue, a Geneva-based organization, has recently put forward a proposal to end the Syrian conflict that includes the creation of a Peace and Reconstruction Authority that would implement local ceasefire agreements and serve as an interim governing authority. The report also suggests that once a deal has been struck, the Assad regime and the Syrian opposition could focus their energies on fighting ISIS. What do you make of this idea?
Rime: It's an absolutely obscene proposition because it takes the position that anything is better than ISIS, whereas most Syrians view ISIS and the Assad regime as being on an equal level of savagery. Many Syrians will tell you the Assad regime is actually worse than ISIS and has killed far more people.
To consider ending the war, which is what all of us want, without considering what's at the root of this entire monstrosity—which is the Assad regime itself—is unacceptable. To propose that in order to end ISIS we have no choice but to work with Assad is not a solution at all.
Alan: At the end of the day, we have to end Syria's war. To end the war requires a solution on three levels: the internal balance on the ground inside Syria; the regional circumstances; and the international level. I believe the will of the Syrian people has been hijacked by regional powers and by global powers—America and Russia. But the Syrian people have to determine their own destiny. The Syrian opposition has to be united. And they have to have a clear vision of how they can end this war. I do not agree with Rime's statement that you have to fight the regime before fighting ISIS.
Rime: I did not say that. I said that you can't just get rid of ISIS. You cannot just get rid of Assad. You have to get rid of both.
Alan: The Syrian people are defending themselves. They are fighting against ISIS. The people of Kobani have been protecting themselves for two months with their limited resources.
Rime: But the coalition's airstrikes are helping them. For three years Assad has been dropping barrel bombs on civilians and yet no help has come from anybody. But now you have the coalition bombing ISIS, which helps the Kurds in Kobani to defend themselves.
Richard, what do you think of the idea of a Peace and Reconstruction Authority?
Richard: I think that a proposal of this sort is somewhat suspect given both how it originated and what it's proposing, because it's really a plea to, in effect, enlarge the anti-ISIS military coalition. I agree with what Rafia said earlier, that bombing only contributes to destabilizing the whole underlying reality. And we still have to address why Iran hasn't been brought into the process as a major political actor that needs to participate in any kind of diplomacy to resolve the Syrian crisis.
I think there are desirable elements [in the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue proposal], such as trying to respect the ceasefire, but it overlooks the complexities and contradictions that have emerged in the Syrian conflict. To try to solve the problems of the Middle East from above is very unlikely to have constructive effects.
Finally, there's an absence of political imagination. The American approach has become so militarized over such a long period of time that it's just about incapable of thinking outside of the military box. It therefore keeps reinventing a military solution to essentially political problems—and is undeterred by a record of failure because it's the only way it knows how to project its power. The U.S. is so addicted to hard-power ways of behaving in the world. It has very little credibility in my view—even when you narrow the focus and it looks like it's better to help those beleaguered in Kobani than to ignore them. That's why I say it's a tragic predicament: Every alternative is repugnant under these conditions. I've always felt that when all alternatives are repugnant the one point of moral clarity is, don't add to the killing. And, echoing what Rafia said, don't add to the displacement, which is subverting any possibility of benevolent political reconstruction.
DANNY POSTEL
Danny Postel is Associate Director of the Center for Middle East Studies at the University of Denver and co-hosts its series of video interviews with leading scholars. He is the author of Reading "Legitimation Crisis" in Tehran and co-editor of The People Reloaded: The Green Movement and the Struggle for Iran's Future and The Syria Dilemma, which was named one of the best books of 2013 in The Progressive. He is a co-editor of PULSE and blogs for Truthout, Critical Inquiry and the Huffington Post. He was a member of Chicago's No War on Iran coalition, communications coordinator forInterfaith Worker Justice, and communications specialist for Stand Up! Chicago, a coalition of labor unions and grassroots community organizations.
source via PULSE
Syrian Bomb Plot Marked Deadly Turn in Civil War
New Revelations Suggest Killing of Bashar al-Assad's Brother-in-Law Was Inside Job
A poster of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad in the city of Homs, where the early confrontations between protesters and regime authorities progressed into civil war. AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE/GETTY IMAGES
SAM DAGHER
Dec. 19, 2014 1:55 p.m. ET
AL-QARDAHA, Syria—On the fourth day of a rebel assault on President Bashar al-Assad 's seat of power in Damascus, an explosion tore through offices of the National Security Bureau, killing the president's brother-in-law and three other senior officials.
Rebel groups claimed credit for the audacious plot, and Syrian opposition groups declared it was the beginning of the end for the regime. In Washington, the Obama administration ordered a task force from the Pentagon, State and Treasury to draw up plans for a post-Assad Syria, said Robert Ford, the U.S. ambassador to Syria at the time.
The July 2012 bombing indeed marked a turning point in Syria's conflict. But rather than the downfall of Mr. Assad, it ushered in a new, more deadly phase of Syria's civil war that allowed him to cling to power. Any regime voices still open to accommodating the opposition went silent, and, within a year, pro-Assad forces deployed chemical weapons against rebels and civilians.
Now, new revelations point to a startling theory about the bombing that killed Assef Shawkat, an army general who was Mr. Assad's brother-in-law and the deputy defense minister: It was an inside job.
Two dozen people, including past and current regime officials, opposition leaders, activists and rebels, and politicians in neighboring countries with ties to Mr. Assad told The Wall Street Journal the bombing grew out of a split between the Assad family and its hard-line allies on one side, and officials seeking negotiations with opposition groups on the other.
Acceptance of the theory by such a broad cross-section of Syrians highlights the ruthless reputation Mr. Assad has cemented since the conflict began more than three years ago. It also shows the dynamic of the president's inner circle as it struggled to keep a grip on power.
Mr. Assad's media office rejected requests for an interview with the president. Maj. Gen. Ali Mamlouk and Maj. Gen. Deeb Zeitoun, two of the regime's top security officials, declined separate requests for comment.
Former Syrian army general Manaf Tlass believes the regime was connected with the bombing. Mr. Tlass defected two weeks before Mr. Shawkat was killed—after guards found six explosive devices planted outside Mr. Tlass's office on a military base in Damascus. He accused the regime of wanting to kill him, too.
Mr. Tlass said he and Mr. Shawkat were among those calling for talks with both peaceful and armed regime opponents, a position contrary to Mr. Assad and his intelligence and security agency chiefs, who sought to crush the insurgency.
"Bashar never opted at any time for serious and credible reforms, but instead chose to destroy the country rather than lose power," said Mr. Tlass, who is living in Paris. "He sold Syria to the Iranians."
The attack opened the door for Iran, Mr. Assad's principal regional ally, and Hezbollah, its proxy militia in Lebanon, to play a greater role in defending the regime, according to members of Syria's security forces and pro-regime militias. Within weeks, foreign Shiite militiamen flocked to Syria. The fighters joined homegrown militias trained by Iran and Hezbollah to help prop up the overstretched Syrian army.
Part 1: Neighbors Divided by War
Part 2: Life Under Siege
Part 3: Escape From Homs
These fighters took the lead in the regime's recapture of rebel territory, helping push the death toll from less than 20,000 at the time to more than 190,000 as of August, according to the United Nations. Millions more Syrians have fled their homes amid the destruction.
Iran's embassy in Damascus and a spokesman for Hezbollah in Beirut refused interviews or comment.
Mr. Ford, who now works with the Middle East Institute, a nonpartisan think tank in Washington, said top members of the Syrian opposition told him rebels weren't responsible for the bombing but believed the regime was. "I've never seen convincing evidence that it was an inside job," he said, "but the allegations were widespread."
A leading Syrian opposition activist, who had direct ties with rebel groups and was in Damascus the day of the bombing, said it would have been impossible for rebels at the time to carry out such an attack.
"If you asked me then, I would have lied to you and told you, 'Our heroic rebels did it.' But now I can tell you, 'No, we were amateurs back then,' " said the activist, now based in Turkey. The bombing boosted opposition morale after government reports credited the rebels, he said. It also spurred more Alawites, members of Mr. Assad's Shiite-linked minority sect who opposed the Sunni-led revolt, to rally around the regime.
Growing involvement by Shiite-dominated Iran and Hezbollah boosted support from Sunni Arab states and private donors to more militant rebel groups, including Islamic State, said Western officials and analysts.
Today, many Syrians—and the U.S. and its allies—face a choice between the Assad regime or the militants of Islamic State, which has turned large parts of Syria and neighboring Iraq into a magnet for foreign jihadists.
Long before Syria's conflict began in the spring of 2011, Mr. Tlass and Mr. Assad—military academy classmates—were seen as a new breed of Syrian leaders: young, modern and open to reforms.
"Bashar started making reformist steps between 1998 and 2000, even before becoming president," Mr. Tlass said. "I was close to him. People were hopeful and thought he was capable of changing things."
Even the U.S. thought it could do business with Mr. Assad, reappointing an ambassador in Damascus in 2009.
Assef Shawkat, an army general and the brother-in-law of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who was killed in a July 2012 explosion in offices of the National Security Bureau in Damascus. REUTERS
The killing of two Syrian protesters by regime forces on March 18, 2011, in the city of Deraa, changed everything. It shattered a short period of peaceful marches by mostly Sunni crowds calling for Mr. Assad's ouster.
Two days later, Mr. Tlass said, he got a call from Mr. Assad asking for advice. Mr. Tlass said he suggested Mr. Assad remove the governor of Deraa, release anyone detained in the demonstrations, arrest the local security chief and make amends for the killings with a visit to the city.
"I told him our society is tribal and will value your conciliatory gesture," Mr. Tlass recalled. "He told me, 'OK.' "
But as more protesters poured into the streets, more were killed. "It's no secret that Syria is facing today a grand conspiracy whose threads extend from inside the homeland to far and near countries," Mr. Assad said in a speech to parliament on March 30, 2011.
At the time, Mr. Tlass commanded a 3,500-strong unit within the Republican Guard that was charged with protecting the president and the capital. Mr. Tlass said about 300 of his men were sent to the city of Douma to help with crowd control as thousands of people took to the streets.
He said they were pushed aside by forces reporting to intelligence chief Hafez Makhlouf —a maternal cousin of Mr. Assad—who shot and killed about a dozen protesters in April 2011. Mr. Makhlouf couldn't be reached for comment.
Mr. Tlass said some of his men were executed for refusing to shoot protesters. One of his best officers, he said, returned from Douma and pleaded to be relieved of the assignment.
"I told him, 'Be patient, the president promised that things will be fixed within three weeks,' " Mr. Tlass said. "The next day, he committed suicide."
Syria's security and intelligence agencies believed they could rely on repressive measures that had worked for decades, according to former regime officials and Western diplomats.
Haytham Manaa, a Syrian opposition leader who has spent much of his life in exile in France, said the regime was surprised when people overcame fears and continued the street protests, which were inspired in part by the Arab Spring uprisings in Tunisia, Egypt and Libya.
Mr. Tlass said he retained his official position but was sidelined by the regime after he raised objections to shooting demonstrators and called for talks with community leaders involved in the protests. That view, he said, put him at odds with hard-liners close to Mr. Assad.
In May 2011, Mr. Tlass said, he had a last meeting with the president. "I told him, 'I am your friend and I advised you not to choose the military solution,' " Mr. Tlass recalled. " 'Go for the political one, it's more inclusive.' He answered, 'You are too soft.' "
Mr. Assad's vice president at the time, Farouq al-Sharaa, one of the country's most seasoned politicians, fell next. He was pushing for dialogue with opposition groups, his relatives said, and was put under house arrest shortly after he chaired a national dialogue conference in Damascus in early July.
Walid Jumblatt, a senior Lebanese political leader, said he last met with Mr. Assad in June 2011: "He told me at the end, 'I don't want people to love me, I want people to fear me.' "
Regime loyalists, meanwhile, took up the slogan: "Assad or nobody. Assad or we burn the country."
In June 2011, some activists tried to keep their opposition movement peaceful amid the growing sectarian violence between the mostly Sunni rebels and regime forces, largely Alawite.
Mohammad-Mounir al-Faqir and fellow activists bought 5,000 ping pong balls that they covered with such slogans as, "Assad, we want freedom whether you like it or not," Mr. Faqir said. They released the balls from a spot uphill from Mr. Assad's residence and filmed guards scurrying to collect them.
By fall, rebels in Homs took control of neighborhoods by force. For the regime, the rebel advances threatened important roads connecting Damascus with Syria's only seaports.
The casket bearing the remains of Hafez al-Assad, the founder of the modern Syrian regime and the father of the current president, inside a mausoleum in al-Qardaha, Syria. SAM DAGHER/THE WALL STREET JOURNAL
In December 2011, Mr. Shawkat, the brother-in-law later slain in the bombing, and two security chiefs visited Homs, Syria's third-largest city, to meet with opposition activists, businessmen and religious and community leaders.
Mr. Shawkat and the others offered a cease-fire plan that would have committed the regime to end opposition arrests and the shelling of neighborhoods in return for a pledge by rebels to halt attacks on regime checkpoints, said people who were there.
One opposition activist said Mr. Shawkat seemed to be the regime representative most interested in the discussion. One of the businessmen there agreed.
"I told them, 'You are turning people into your enemies, what's your interest in that?' " the businessman said. "I was interrupted by an angry official but Assef [Shawkat] snapped at him and told him, 'Calm down. Let him finish.' "
No deal was reached. Conciliatory gestures approved by Mr. Shawkat, such as allowing ambulances to pick up the dead and wounded, were blocked by regime hard-liners, according to activists and community leaders.
Mr. Tlass, the defected general, said Mr. Shawkat's power diminished shortly after his return from Homs, as security and intelligence chiefs asserted greater control. "He insisted on retaining his functions and powers," Mr. Tlass said, "and here the real clash began."
Mr. Tlass and several people with knowledge of the matter said Mr. Shawkat posed a threat to Mr. Assad's rule. Mr. Shawkat, who was married to Mr. Assad's sister, had previously headed Military Intelligence—one of Syria's most feared institutions—and commanded a loyal group of officers.
Mr. Shawkat moved within the circles of power that surround Mr. Assad. The first circles include Mr. Assad's wife and mother, his army commander brother, Maher, and maternal cousins, the Makhloufs, Mr. Tlass said. The next circle includes the chiefs of security and intelligence services.
"In my opinion, they got rid of him. They were scared of him," Mr. Jumblatt, the Lebanese politician, said of Mr. Shawkat. Others, including Mr. Tlass and people who know members of the Assad family, said Mr. Shawkat was seen as a potential threat to Mr. Assad.
Two months before the July 18, 2012, bombing, Mr. Tlass said, there was an unsuccessful plot to kill Mr. Shawkat with a poisoned takeout lunch of kebabs and hummus in Damascus.
The bombing marked a shift by Hezbollah and Iran—when saving the Assad regime became their top priority, according to Iraqi and Lebanese officials close to both sides.
On the day Mr. Shawkat was killed, Maj. Gen. Qassim Suleimani, commander of Iran's elite Qods Force, was in Damascus, Mr. Tlass said. The Qods Force is a unit of Iran's Revolutionary Guards responsible for operations abroad, particularly in Lebanon, Iraq and Syria.
Also that day, Hassan Nasrallah, commander of Iran's main regional proxy force Hezbollah, spoke to supporters in a Beirut suburb to mark the anniversary of the 2006 war with Israel.
Mr. Nasrallah said Mr. Assad and his regime were indispensable for the survival of Hezbollah and other Iran-backed movements, including Hamas. Mr. Nasrallah said rockets fired at Israel in the war were Syrian.
A Syrian militia leader said in an interview last year that Syria's intelligence services worked with Hezbollah and Iran's Qods Force to raise fears that Sunni militants planned to attack holy Shiite shrines in Syria—an effort to attract more Shiites across the region to fight alongside Assad regime forces.
With the help of foreign fighters, the regime "succeeded in giving the impression of a strong and cohesive army," said Ezzat al-Shabandar, an Iraqi Shiite politician with close ties to Iranian and Syrian regime officials.
The regime also began using social media to shift popular views toward the idea that opposition groups and rebels had joined savage Islamic extremists. Mr. Assad in speeches and interviews embraced the idea that he was an indispensable leader who must use violence to rescue Syria, a message that has echoed down the chain of command.
"I always tell Sunnis, 'Your only protector is Bashar al-Assad because he's restraining us and not letting us do more,' " said Col. Jamal Younes, an Alawite army officer.
Militancy on the opposition side also rose dramatically. By the spring of 2013, such extremist groups as Islamic State and the al Qaeda-linked Nusra Front were displacing both secular and homegrown Islamist rebel groups in Syria.
Islamic militants in March seized the predominantly Armenian-Christian resort town of Kasab, located in the mountains of Mr. Assad's home province near the border with Turkey in western Syria.
Regime forces drove them out three months later, leaving homes and churches ransacked.
"We are victims of both sides and this is why I want to leave," said Armen Georgekian, an Armenian Christian and the town's only shopkeeper. He recalled visits by Mr. Assad before the conflict and said he and his group bought ice cream cones from his shop.
"He can survive," Mr. Georgekian said, "but he can't win."
Down the coast is Mr. Assad's hometown of al-Qardaha, which has been largely untouched by the war. A domed mausoleum stands on a hill where a dozen workers in late summer trimmed hedges and pulled weeds in its garden.
Inside, two guards in suits stood motionless next to a casket, covered in a green velvet cloth, that holds the remains of Hafez al-Assad, the Syrian president's father and the founder of the Assad regime.
Around the casket in the black-marble hall are the tombs of two of Bashar al-Assad's brothers, Majd and Bassel, who had been groomed by his father to take over power. Bassel al-Assad 's death in a 1994 car accident opened the way for his younger brother, Bashar.
In Qardaha's central market, shops were fully stocked and farmers from nearby villages hawked fruits, vegetables and freshly picked tobacco leaves.
A statue of Hafez al-Assad, surrounded by four lions symbolizing his four sons, stands in the main square.
Posters of Bashar al-Assad were plastered on shop windows. One showed him next to his father, who had a halo above his head. "Rest in peace in the heavens above, our master," the caption said. "You should be proud of Bashar."
source source
Bill Maher defends anti-Muslim hate speech in Vanity Fair interview
On eve of University of California honor, Bill Maher defends anti-Muslim hate speech in Vanity Fair interview
Bill Maher with Ben Affleck and Sam Harris.

This weekend, UC-Berkeley honors its graduates and Bill Maher's Anti-Muslimism, together.
Unlike Harris-Maher-Affleck-Gate, a very peculiar comment from Bill Maher recently flew completely under the journo radar. Sally Kohn of Vanity Fair said to him:
"The religious scholar Karen Armstrong did an interview with Salon and talked about what you and Sam Harris said. And she said that your comments fill her with despair because this is 'the sort of talk that led to the concentrations camps in Europe. The sorts of things that people were saying about Jews in the 30s and 40s.' That's gotta sting, especially coming from her."
To which he replied:
"It doesn't sting because it's beyond stupid. Jews weren't oppressing anybody. There weren't 5,000 militant Jewish groups. They didn't do a study of treatment of women around the world and find that the Jews were at the bottom of it. There weren't 10 Jewish countries in the world that were putting gay people to death just for being gay. It's idiotic."
Here, we see that Maher disagreed with the comparison between American Muslims in concentration camps and European Jews in concentration camps by listing off "reasons" for why the latter did not deserve it (and the former would?). The big fat realization staring us all right in the face is…did Bill Maher just justify the mass murder of American Muslims? What the hell did he just say?
Let's go through this again, for the sake of clarity. The scholar Karen Armstrong says she is fearful that if anti-Muslim bigotry (like Maher's) persists in this country, one day American citizens will get targeted based on whatever classifies as "Muslim", will get illegally picked up one by one, and will get forcefully placed in 21st century concentration camps where a Muslim Holocaust may or may not be happening. Instead of laughing her off as hyperbolic or the idea off as preposterous (which I thought was going to follow after his "it's beyond stupid"), or instead of giving liberal assurances to assuage such fears, Bill Maher instinctually accepts the notion of a Muslim genocide in America and proceeds to contextualize it by blaming Muslims themselves. Armstrong validated.
According to Maher's response, the entire spectrum of American Muslims then are at fault for matters outside of their control, involving people that they've never met. For actions that they don't condone, by subcultures that are different from their own. For mentalities that they don't share, by groups whose names they can't even pronounce. All because they happen to fall under the same category of religious identity. This is extreme bigotry against a people that Maher has been able to professionally masquerade as rational critique against a religion…a maneuver only popular, self-identified "liberals" can get away with if they keep saying the words "free speech" louder than others are saying "hate speech".
In the same interview, Maher proudly claimed "way more people came over to my side" after the exchange with Ben Affleck. He's right. And he loved that racists, homophobes, illegal Mexican blamers, Anti-Semites, climate-change-denying crackpots, White-supremacist nut jobs, and all the other groups of people that he's been ridiculing for decades jumped the fence and hi-fived him on this one. This is where they join forces, where their bigotry circles intersect to form that Anti-Muslim vesica piscis in the middle, where they're brothers in discrimination. After all, Sean Hannity praised him. Yeah…take a moment if you need to.
Maher claims he has "two" "Muslim" "friends" but after all he's spewed about Muslims over the years, we don't really know what that means. Maybe they enjoy his impossible ignorance, gross generalizations, warmongering, misinformation, and chronic out-of-context taking. In the interview, he made it a point to say that Reza Aslan considers him a friend instead of the other way around, despite Aslan trying to publicly make a case for Maher not being a bigot. My guess is he didn't make the cut as the third official Muslim friend because he doesn't do the whole former-Muslim-pet-for-Islamophobes song and dance that Maher loves to spotlight. Makes you think about his "two" "Muslim" "friends" and if Maher would intervene on their behalf in the American Muslim Holocaust.
Congratulations UC-Berkeley, this Saturday, December 20, you'll be on the wrong side of history.
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Hackers Send New Messages To Sony
The hackers behind a devastating cyberattack at Sony Pictures have sent a new message to executives at the company, crediting them for a "very wise" decision to cancel the Christmas day release of "The Interview," a source close to the company told CNN.
The email message was received by Sony's top executives on Thursday night and was obtained by CNN.
The source said that the company believes the email was from the hackers because it followed a pattern of previous messages, sent to a list of particular executives and formatted in a particular way.
Read More: http://money.cnn.com/2014/12/19/media…
Cenk Uygur (@cenkuygur), Ben Mankiewicz (@BenMank77), John Iadarola (@jiadarola), and Cara Santa Maria (@CaraSantaMaria) discuss.