News for today's 2018

TURKEY IN TURMOIL

3:50 PM Tukiyooo 0

<br /> <br /><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="margin-left: -13.5pt; mso-cellspacing: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; width: 653px;"> <tbody><tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">  <td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 0in; width: 5.0in;" valign="top" width="480"><table border="0" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="MsoNormalTable" style="mso-cellspacing: 0in; mso-padding-alt: 0in 0in 0in 0in; mso-yfti-tbllook: 1184; width: 382px;">   <tbody><tr style="mso-yfti-firstrow: yes; mso-yfti-irow: 0; mso-yfti-lastrow: yes;">    <td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 0in; width: 286.5pt;" width="382"><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></td></tr></tbody></table></td><td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 0in; width: .25in;" width="24"><br /></td><td style="padding: 0in 0in 0in 0in; width: 111.75pt;" valign="top" width="149"><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><br />   <br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUiIDGSM3YGGLGv5Kij38tHsx4qEAFPLBq8l-wL_MPSyUqGpoMYGbDrIOD1hBlR5Bd9gOhyYaf8rCcvxrKyvZzzNqparWrcLpwKxs604P9N_lII7yW9ZbbeK_StkUykL5gvcXth0vyYS4L/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUiIDGSM3YGGLGv5Kij38tHsx4qEAFPLBq8l-wL_MPSyUqGpoMYGbDrIOD1hBlR5Bd9gOhyYaf8rCcvxrKyvZzzNqparWrcLpwKxs604P9N_lII7yW9ZbbeK_StkUykL5gvcXth0vyYS4L/s400/11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12pt; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12pt; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #134f5c;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif";">ET TU, GUL? THEN FALL, ERDOGAN</span></b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Executive Summary: </span></b></span></div><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Erdogan suggests: turmoil is orchestrated by foreign      sources</span></b></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Intense mutual hostility between IRAN, TURKEY, SYRIA and      IRAQ</span></b></li></ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc"><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">US reaction regarding TURKISH unrest has been unusually      harsh and critical of Erdogan</span></b></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">USA</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">: <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">TURKISH government resorted to      excessive use of force</b></span></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Paragon of 'moderate' Islam</span></b></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gulen: one of the most influential movements in the Islamic      world</span></b></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Economic prosperity in TURKEY made it difficult for the USA to harness Erdogan</span></b></li><li class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gulen has Washington's support for this "regime      change" in TURKEY</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></li></ul><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">By M K Bhadrakumar <i>via </i>Asia Times Online<br /></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">One thing that TURKISH Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan said before pushing ahead with a four-day tour of the MAGHREB tour still hangs suspended in the air. Hardly anyone picked it up. He said Turkish intelligence is looking into possible links between the recent incidents in Istanbul, scene of violently suppressed protests, and foreign elements. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><span style="color: #cc0000;">ERDOGAN SUGGESTS: TURMOIL IS ORCHESTRATED BY FOREIGN SOURCES</span><br /></span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />Erdogan hinted that some leads are already available with the TURKISH intelligence. "Our intelligence work is ongoing. It is not possible to reveal their names. But we will have meetings with their heads." <br /><br />His words suggested that there might have been concerted foreign interference. Logically, the eyes turn toward SYRIA, IRAN and IRAQ. But then, Erdogan also blamed Twitter for inciting unrest. He said, </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">There is now a menace, which is called Twitter. The best examples of lies can be found there. To me, social media is the worst menace to society. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">INTENSE MUTUAL HOSTILITY BETWEEN IRAN, TURKEY, SYRIA AND IRAQ</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The regimes in SYRIA, IRAQ and IRAN should be out of their minds to dabble in the US-controlled social media as instruments of their regional policies. Besides, the reactions of the three countries to the TURKISH unrest are conspicuously reticent under the current circumstances of intense mutual hostility, and quite apparently they have been taken by surprise that the ground beneath the feet of the Sultan in Istanbul could shift just like that. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/07/turkeys-sunni-crescent.html">http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/07/turkeys-sunni-crescent.html</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">US REACTION REGARDING THE TURKISH UNREST HAS BEEN UNUSUALLY HARSH AND CRITICAL OF ERDOGAN. </span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The USA has so far made six statements regarding the unrest in TURKEY through the past week, mostly at the level of the White House. These statements have been highly critical of Erdogan. <br /><br />They viewed the protests as peaceful acts by ordinary law-abiding citizens exercising their rights to free expression. They expressed concern about the government's response to the protesters and "expected" Ankara to work through the issue while "respecting its [TURKEY'S] citizens' rights". </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">TURKISH GOVERNMENT RESORTED TO EXCESSIVE USE OF FORCE</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7uIu0BCiBPDnzWuKr9z8pbXpVtg_Qjn8T8XAWglavi2MNhPlNFYMNVK_VEz9k-WEQjleCH9yxqNzDx847F_OgWHiZ9fZ7zM7UAEFo-2X6f0CzPF33duCbyehNLDF5iGbqRMi4I3NHKXA/s1600/turkey_reddress--621x414.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgc7uIu0BCiBPDnzWuKr9z8pbXpVtg_Qjn8T8XAWglavi2MNhPlNFYMNVK_VEz9k-WEQjleCH9yxqNzDx847F_OgWHiZ9fZ7zM7UAEFo-2X6f0CzPF33duCbyehNLDF5iGbqRMi4I3NHKXA/s320/turkey_reddress--621x414.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />The White House considered that the TURKISH government resorted to excessive use of force and called for the events to be investigated. Secretary of State John Kerry added that the Obama administration is "deeply concerned" by the large number of people who have been injured. Kerry said: </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">We are concerned by the reports of excessive use of force by police. We obviously hope there will be a full investigation of those incidents and full restraint from the police force with respect to those incidents. We urge all people involved ... to avoid any provocations or violence. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The US has taken up the matter with the TURKISH government through diplomatic channels. <br /><br />Indeed, something is strange in this overreaction, and it is not only as regards the disproportionate and harsh US pronouncements - considering that Erdogan and President Barack Obama had some special chemistry between them - but also because the US reaction looks suspiciously defensive. <br /><br />These are early days, and firm conclusions cannot yet be made as to what exactly is happening in TURKEY. However, there are straws in the wind. <br /><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" /></span><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">HEREBY HANGS A TALE</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span></b></span> </div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">No sooner had Erdogan's jet taken off from the Essenboga airport on his scheduled trip to NORTH AFRICA than Deputy Prime Minister Bulent Arinc visited the presidential palace in Ankara to meet President Abdullah Gul. The two leaders thereupon publicly took a radically different approach than Erdogan's to the ongoing unrest. <br /><br />Erdogan had summarily dismissed the protesters as "ideologically" motivated hoodlums with links to foreign powers and had no word of regret for the police excesses. Arinc, on the contrary, acknowledged that the original protesters were "right and legitimate" and the police methods were brutal, for which he even apologized. Indeed, he has since agreed to meet the protesters on Wednesday. <br /><br />Again, Erdogan was harsh on the opposition Republican People's Party for inciting the protests, whereas Gul received its leader at the presidential palace for a discussion. <br /><br />Erdogan argues that he won a handsome mandate in the last parliamentary poll, which gave him the prerogative to implement his programs, but Gul contradicts him that democracy is about more than holding elections. <br /><br />To be sure, the secularists and liberals and the Kemalist camp have promptly greeted Gul as more conciliatory, more receptive to democratic ideals and generally more pro-WESTERN than Erdogan. <br /><br />Curiously, Erdogan, Gul and Arinc are being described in the same breath as the "founding fathers" of the ruling Justice and Development Party (AKP), although TURKS all over would know that Erdogan is as peerless as any sultan in their history. <br /><br />And the intriguing part is that this characterization of an AKP "Troika" is the handiwork of the Zaman newspaper. Of course, Zaman is run by the followers of the hugely powerful faith-based Fetullah Gulen movement. Hereby hangs a tale. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>PARAGON OF 'MODERATE' ISLAM</b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhY0ucB3-pgCV_pHeNUsxV-1mGFjnCVpYhJXopqHlXnJ2VwvPmEgVjZi0kltU20SR33FIV-3QB2zZv3a9fzPJY_1pPl49R5O7LWnufUIRmZHzBLYDGuCtJt54VgEx8bB_GCukE7s5ymZ7T/s1600/erdogan-gulen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhY0ucB3-pgCV_pHeNUsxV-1mGFjnCVpYhJXopqHlXnJ2VwvPmEgVjZi0kltU20SR33FIV-3QB2zZv3a9fzPJY_1pPl49R5O7LWnufUIRmZHzBLYDGuCtJt54VgEx8bB_GCukE7s5ymZ7T/s320/erdogan-gulen.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Although the Gulen movement had supported the Islamist AKP's march to power, a distance had developed between Erdogan and Gulen in recent years. Erdogan has been plainly indifferent toward Gulen and averse to submitting to him. In contrast, after meeting Gulen recently, Arinc showered praise on him in a TV interview and pointedly called him as "<i>Hocaefendi</i>", a title that his followers use for him. Arinc said Gulen is the "conscience of 75 million people" in TURKEY. <br /><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Arinc's meeting with Gulen took place in Philadelphia during Erdogan's recent visit to the US, but the prime minister himself kept away. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">GULEN: ONE OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL MOVEMENTS IN THE ISLAMIC WORLD</span></b></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /><br />Now, all this may seem out of context unless one has the background of Gulen, who heads one of the most influential movements in the Islamic world and which is regarded as drawing on the moderate mystical traditions of Sufism. He fled TURKEY in 1999 amid accusations of plotting to overthrow the secular government at that time and has been living in exile on a 10-hectare haven in the mountains of eastern Pennsylvania. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G%C3%BClen_movement">http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/G%C3%BClen_movement</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://gulencharterschools.weebly.com/">http://gulencharterschools.weebly.com/</a></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">USE OF ISLAM AS AN INSTRUMENT OF US REGIONAL POLICIES</b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">According to a well-researched report by the New York Times, his Green Card application shows that Gulen's request to remain in the UNITED STATES was endorsed by a former top official dealing with the MIDDLE EAST in the <span style="color: blue;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">Central Intelligence Agency</b>. <br /><br />The mystery deepens when it transpires that the <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">CIA's case officer also is an authority on the "Arab Spring" and political Islam, with a long career track specializing in the use of Islam as an instrument of US regional policies.</b> <br /></span><br />Suffice to say, Zaman newspaper has opened the heavy artillery on Erdogan and is exhorting Gul and Arinc to take on the mantle of leadership. Zaman commentaries have virtually called for a revolt against Erdogan by AKP stalwarts. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">ECONOMIC PROSPERITY IN TURKEY MADE IT DIFFICULT FOR THE US TO HARNESS ERDOGAN</span></b></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDI1MRAL29ljsa3uVcLurF0PoqnO0KamNp-Fu1dNAxbcZwC9cFknctvdpdAZq3NGPRixb3Gysf7ggBldprD6bJjzUzBLwbmkZ43VsvO4UGPTpJMuCkKdkU4RRuAcHHhZJn7Cm_L_0e49yN/s1600/8701412.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDI1MRAL29ljsa3uVcLurF0PoqnO0KamNp-Fu1dNAxbcZwC9cFknctvdpdAZq3NGPRixb3Gysf7ggBldprD6bJjzUzBLwbmkZ43VsvO4UGPTpJMuCkKdkU4RRuAcHHhZJn7Cm_L_0e49yN/s1600/8701412.jpg" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Erdogan faces an existential challenge. The heart of the matter is that he has grown in stature through the past decade in power taking TURKEY to unprecedented heights of prosperity and striding the Arab Muslim world as a role model. <br /><br />In the process, paradoxically, it has also become increasingly difficult for the US to harness his energy. Erdogan has become uncontrollable - be it in his stance on SYRIA, support for IRAQI KURDISTAN, Hamas and the Muslim Brotherhood, or his visceral hatred toward ISRAEL. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><a href="http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/06/turkeys-double-edged-sword-policies-or.html"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">http://news-these-days.blogspot.com.ar/2012/06/turkeys-double-edged-sword-policies-or.html</span></a></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /><br /><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b>WAVING THE RED FLAG</b></span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br />Woven into all this is also a congruence of interests between the US and Gulen in weakening and destabilizing Erdogan. From Gulen's perspective, Erdogan not only defies him, but is also accelerating a historic compromise with the PKK, a KURDISH group that he is violently opposed to. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">By the way, a WikiLeaks cable dated 2009 by the then US ambassador to TURKEY, James F Jeffrey, assessed that <span style="color: blue;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;">the Gulen movement was strong in the police and security agencies</b>. </span></span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><br /></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">GULEN HAS WASHINGTON'S SUPPORT FOR THIS "REGIME CHANGE" IN TURKEY</span></b></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br /><br />Interestingly, Ambassador Jeffrey wrote, </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">The political context for conversations about Gulen is complicated because President Gul is himself seen by almost all of our contacts as a Gulenist, while Prime Minister Erdogan is not. Indeed, some of our contacts have argued that Erdogan is so firmly outside the Gulen camp that Gulen loyalists view him as a liability. At the same time, the Republican People's Party and other AKP opponents of the ruling Justice and Development Party are quick to accuse the US of working covertly to prop up Gulen, allegedly to weaken TURKEY'S secular foundation to produce a "model" moderate Islamic nation. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Make no mistake, TURKEY'S unrest is not going to wither away. Gulen is making his epic move to bring about an "in-house" political coup within the AKP to bring Gul to the fore. Gulen has Washington's support for this "regime change" in TURKEY. The MIDDLE EAST situation has reached a criticality, and who rules TURKEY becomes of seminal importance. <br /><br />But will Erdogan walk into the sunset without a fight? Such meekness wouldn't be the hallmark of a sultan. Marc Champion, editor at Bloomberg, is spot on: </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">If the president is able to calm the protests before Erdogan returns in three days - as the prime minister says he hopes - Gul will get the credit. If Gul can create a new coalition across the opposition parties, he would be a great choice to lead them and would provide a good change for TURKEY. But don't count on it ... Erdogan isn't just a political bruiser. He is a force of nature, and has a genius for turning events to his advantage. The party was built and succeeded around Erdogan's popular appeal, not Gul's. </span></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: 12.0pt;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span><span style="color: blue;"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Meanwhile, the SYRIAN crisis has introduced another dimension into this. Gul is a protege of the Saudi royal family, whereas Erdogan shares the Qatari Emir's passion for the Muslim Brotherhood</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">. </span></span></div><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Evidently, ISRAEL is terribly excited about the outcome of the turmoil in TURKEY. The Ha'aretz newspaper has begun a "live blog" on the happenings. Equally, IRAN has counseled Erdogan to show "prudence", virtually waving the red flag, despite all the differences with him, that powerful forces could be arrayed against him. </span>

TURKEY IN TURMOIL

ET TU, GUL? THEN FALL, ERDOGAN Executive Summary: Erdogan suggests: turmoil is orchestrated by foreign sources Intense mu...

Sicko Sex

1:59 PM Tukiyooo 0

I've got a new job title - Resident Medicine Cup Washer<br /><br />Kiddos and I have got the crud big time. I took my first sick day in years.  Even after I had my babies, I was back behind my desk the next day.  Takes a lot to bring me down.<br /><br />Our quick getaway to the mountains tomorrow and Saturday is cancelled.  Between being sick and heavy rains from that pesky tropical storm, it just seemed the better choice.<br /><br />I need to protect hubby from this mess.  I didn't stand a chance against it.  I can't get too close, gotta keep my face away from his.<br /><br />Dizzy, stuffy, look like I've been plowed down by a truck, and horny as hell.  Something happens to my brain when I'm beaten down or sex is impossible - and then it's all I can think about.<br /><br />This morning, both kids in the living room and thoroughly hypnotized by Nick Jr, I crawled back into bed.<br /><br />He reached under the covers, pulling me towards him.<br /><br />"I'm sick" I warned/protested.<br /><br />"I'm not,"  he murmured as he continued about his business.<br /><br />Somehow those words melted me.  I cannot even begin to understand this weird wiring in my head!!!  Didn't care if I felt awful.  Didn't care that I looked like death warmed over.  I was his to use and that was that.  And we both got what we wanted.

Sicko Sex

I've got a new job title - Resident Medicine Cup Washer Kiddos and I have got the crud big time. I took my first sick day in years. Eve...

Christie appoints NJ Attorney General as temporary replacement for Lautenberg's seat

12:36 PM Tukiyooo 0

Christie appoints NJ Attorney General as temporary replacement for Lautenberg's seat

The Hill reported Thursday that NJ Governor Chris Christie has made his choice for a temporary replacement to the late Senator Frank Lauten...

Stressed-Less Living: #Blessed

12:29 PM Tukiyooo 0

As part of the <a href="http://melissataylor.org/2013/06/06/sll-week-9-day-4-stressed-less-living-blog-hop" target="_blank">Stressed-Less Living Bible Study</a>, this week I am sharing 5 things for which I am #Blessed.  I'm sure I could easily come up with a much longer list!<br /><br /><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">1. Baby Buzz</span><span style="color: #351c75;"> </span></b>- I am still at the point where I cannot even believe I am having a baby!  This whole thing is still very surreal to me, but I know that God #blessed us with her for a very special reason.  I cannot wait to learn more about our daughter!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYZXPUVWCKfHJU3FCkjwCCVimW-HRRk0GzmRj7zgMYi-k3Xg1vJNDWYdpMtZLczV-61CPLZnlfSESXvi8VuNom2GS67G_JAVJbVSblAteYFlsm3tFHmhRTOZGqo6tOoJBeKLAOfL8TtUQ/s1600/baby+girl+20+weeks+cropped.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYZXPUVWCKfHJU3FCkjwCCVimW-HRRk0GzmRj7zgMYi-k3Xg1vJNDWYdpMtZLczV-61CPLZnlfSESXvi8VuNom2GS67G_JAVJbVSblAteYFlsm3tFHmhRTOZGqo6tOoJBeKLAOfL8TtUQ/s320/baby+girl+20+weeks+cropped.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><span style="color: #674ea7;"><b>2. Joel</b> </span>- <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2012/02/love-endures-all-things.html" target="_blank">How far</a> God has brought our relationship from just one year ago.  Exactly one year ago today, we would have been shopping at Kohl's for some last minute beach clothes for Joel, followed by a very anxious dinner at Uno's.  We are fearful flyers, and were so incredibly nervous over our impending flight to Jamaica the next morning.  We had a gorgeous wedding ceremony on white sandy beaches with crystal clear blue waters, and I wouldn't have changed it for the world.  Joel has proven every vowel we took that day <i>just</i> in our first year of marriage.  I have heard many others say that the first year of marriage can be the hardest.  God tested us from the very beginning - after being married for merely 3 months, He gave us one of His greatest gifts.  Joel has been by my side for every good and bad day of pregnancy from day 1.  He has dug me out of the depths of sadness (at the beginning), and helped me get excited for our new little 'bee.  As the Blake Shelton song goes, "God gave me {Joel} for the ups and downs..."  I could not have done this journey without him, and Joel, darling, I love you so, so much!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyQuDoxk_d-Ky8d1YFW9gimoQGx3d78kxkPgqW3IA2y7T0rmobIFcW6mEBycgNqKazShny19q1BFkOpFJMCONymIOXuPDkFKF57SweF9YxvaHISzaj3lGg0D28eqBhmjTISWX0FPnrpw/s1600/veil+wedding+pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmyQuDoxk_d-Ky8d1YFW9gimoQGx3d78kxkPgqW3IA2y7T0rmobIFcW6mEBycgNqKazShny19q1BFkOpFJMCONymIOXuPDkFKF57SweF9YxvaHISzaj3lGg0D28eqBhmjTISWX0FPnrpw/s400/veil+wedding+pic.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">3. My Health </span></b>- Pregnancy has taught me so much, but one thing that has really shined through is how durable my body is.  I may be overweight, but I fully intend to get back to caring for this body once the little lady is born.  I have had a challenging pregnancy - battling morning sickness nearly this entire time, hemorrhoids, heart palpitations, etc.  Still, I know it could be so much worse.  Those are mild issues compared to what some women have to endure - preeclampsia, miscarriages, issues with their placentas, etc.  I am lucky and thankful that God has #blessed me with a body that has been able to carry a child.<br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqsZdTzjnePZTswH2iNGYPRxZ8v0yEV75EU0fBrGpZGL6RC6VbgL9Wi-xt8uYDCJxjWTTnzvuhr3hwnz0sIfzJkOktfEv192696_u8PqnESyJw8ZO5EsDPSHVQawa2P30jzQpfqSN8MF4/s1600/IMG_3618-2496794874-O.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqsZdTzjnePZTswH2iNGYPRxZ8v0yEV75EU0fBrGpZGL6RC6VbgL9Wi-xt8uYDCJxjWTTnzvuhr3hwnz0sIfzJkOktfEv192696_u8PqnESyJw8ZO5EsDPSHVQawa2P30jzQpfqSN8MF4/s400/IMG_3618-2496794874-O.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image courtesy of <a href="http://www.elkinks.com/" target="_blank">Elkinks</a></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">4. My Cats</span></b> - Oh <a href="https://www.facebook.com/merlinandcharles" target="_blank">Merlin & Charles</a>!  Sometimes a source of frustration (furniture clawing!), but often a source of laughter.  These two have been our babies for so long - I cannot wait to see how they adjust to a third human in the house!  I cannot get enough of their antics - they have truly been a blessing in our lives!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic4L8g2SXdKqSLI7AesmdM8yM752gdYpM1tWtlXnD6Yha6ydyBPo1GpCHgVWNLZLpBr4tYAV0EAookt8X9_UFABa4E26YR6VrTZlOfGs97iwqtW2Q7kjMnGtrdeQX3HPUnnAA2ZKqnKB0/s1600/merlin+charles+pink+bag.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic4L8g2SXdKqSLI7AesmdM8yM752gdYpM1tWtlXnD6Yha6ydyBPo1GpCHgVWNLZLpBr4tYAV0EAookt8X9_UFABa4E26YR6VrTZlOfGs97iwqtW2Q7kjMnGtrdeQX3HPUnnAA2ZKqnKB0/s400/merlin+charles+pink+bag.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br /><br /><b><span style="color: #674ea7;">5. My Job </span></b>- If you know me, you know I really dislike my job.  However, I have an income!  I have a place of employment that affords me the luxury of working at home.  I'm not sure I could have survived this pregnancy without that flexibility, especially during this last trimester.  Sleep quality is so awful right now, I can't imagine waking up for work at 4:30 AM to commute an hour into the city... 8 months pregnant!  Words cannot express how thankful I am to have this opportunity to work at home during this last trimester in order to smoothly transition into the birth of our daughter.  Not only that, but I am so #blessed to have a paycheck and health insurance.  Our lives could be a heck of a lot more stressful if we were not employed!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.someecards.com/usercards/viewcard/MjAxMi1mMTExNGUzMGEzYzE0Mjc0"><img alt="someecards.com - WHY can't PINTEREST be my job? I'm so good at it." height="280" src="http://static.someecards.com/someecards/usercards/1350152697909_5135338.png" width="400" /></a><br /><br />What are 5 things you are #blessed with right now?

Stressed Less Living Stressed-Less Living: #Blessed

As part of the Stressed-Less Living Bible Study , this week I am sharing 5 things for which I am #Blessed. I'm sure I could easily come...

She's Almost Here!

11:33 AM Tukiyooo 0

On Monday I had a rate of growth ultrasound to determine just how healthy our little lady is!<br /><br />This appointment went so much better than <a href="http://the-big-weight.blogspot.com/2013/05/35-weeks-to-go.html" target="_blank">last week's</a>! <br /><br />It's always nice and comforting to see the little lady moving around in there on the sonogram screen.  She is currently measuring at 8 pounds and 12 days ahead of her due date.  <i>(For those that may not know, the u/s can be off in either direction by +- 2 lbs)</i>.  As of right now, she is in the 94% for her weight, so if she increases between now and 39 weeks, then they will most definitely want me to have a c-section.  If I do make it to 39 weeks, they will order another ultrasound to determine her weight, and then schedule the c-section accordingly.  They will not be doing a c-section <i>before</i> 39 weeks, unless she chooses to come on her own between now and then!<br /><br />While I was supposed to meet with the doctor on Monday, she unfortunately had to leave due to a family emergency.  Instead I saw one of the fabulous midwives.  Jenna explained everything I shared above in such a caring way - not reprimanding me for my weight (which, <i>thank you Jesus</i>, I did not gain any weight since the prior week's appointment), or trying to make me feel like an inadequate woman who "would have a hard time with labor in my physical condition".  Despite one crappy doctor, I absolutely love my practice, and I know a large part of that is because of the outstanding midwives that work there. <br /><br />Previous to becoming pregnant, I had a total misconception of what a midwife was.  I ignorantly thought of them as hippy nurses who would want to push me into an all natural delivery without medication and possibly giving birth in a birthing pool.  Now listen, if you chose to do that - that's fine! To each their own!  For me, I want <i>drugs</i>.  I want to be in a hospital in case something goes wrong. <br /><br />The midwives at my practice deliver most of the babies, actually.  If you have a vaginal delivery, barring any complications, a midwife will be delivering you.  At my practice, that means the midwife has far more time with you than a doctor would.  I also tend to believe the level of care is much more personal. While I don't know what God has in store for this delivery, I have a strong feeling that this little woman is coming via a c-section, and so I am moderately sad I won't have a midwife to help me along.  They have been absolutely amazing throughout my entire pregnancy.<br /><br />Today I sit at 37.5 weeks pregnant.  Now if you're like me, these week numbers I keep throwing around might not mean much to you.  Trust me, I felt the <i>same way</i> once upon a time.  I remember telling my other pregnant friends, "How do you even keep track of what week it is? I know I couldn't just tell you what week we're in for 2013."  I guess when you're growing a human, the number of weeks start to matter, and you just <i>know</i>. <br /><br />Ideally, a woman will carry a baby to 40 weeks gestation, or 9 months.  <i>(Do the math though... 40/4 is 10, not 9... so it's really like you're 10 months pregnant and not 9!)</i>.  Obviously, that is the ideal.  Still, as we all know, babies come when they want to.. before or after 40 weeks.  Right now, I am considered fullterm, meaning she could be born today and be absolutely fine.  All of her organs are fully developed and all she's doing now is putting on more weight (better her than me, I hope!).<br /><br />So we just go day by day, anxiously awaiting her arrival, however and whenever that might be! <br /><br /><br />

Baby Busbee Pregnancy She's Almost Here!

On Monday I had a rate of growth ultrasound to determine just how healthy our little lady is! This appointment went so much better than last...

Bolling's Va Mainstream Project PAC taps 6 candidates for HoD support

10:19 AM Tukiyooo 0

In the second wave of flexing his political muscle, Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling's <a href="http://www.billbolling.com/2013/05/15/bolling-announces-formation-of-the-virginia-mainstream-project/">"Virginia Mainstream Project"</a> (VMP) has made six more political endorsements backed with financial support and radio campaign ads leading into contested primaries on June 11.<br /><br />With the goal of electing mainstream, conservative Republicans to public office, <span style="font-size: 15px;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">VMP announced it had endorsed </span></span></span>the following candidates for their Virginia House of Delegates races, some who are being challenged by tea party or Ron Paul candidates and are in particularly contentious contests:<br /><blockquote>- House District 15 – <a href="http://www.delegatetoddgilbert.com/">Delegate Todd Gilbert</a><br />- House District 28 – <a href="http://www.williamjhowell.org/">Speaker Bill Howell</a><br />- House District 29 – <a href="http://www.beverlysherwood.com/">Delegate Beverly Sherwood</a><br />- House District 33 – <a href="http://www.joetmay.com/">Delegate Joe May</a><br />- House District 54 – <a href="http://bobbyorrock.net/">Delegate Bobby Orrock</a><br />- House District 85 – <a href="http://www.scotttaylorva.com/">Mr. Scott Taylor</a></blockquote>In addition to financial support, 60-second radio ads have been purchased and are airing for <a href="http://www.billbolling.com/2013/06/05/radio-ad-for-delegate-bobby-orrock/">Orrock</a> and <a href="http://www.billbolling.com/2013/06/05/radio-ad-for-delegate-beverly-sherwood/">Sherwood</a>.<br /><br />This is on the heels of VMP's endorsement and financial support to <a href="http://johncosgrove.org/">Delegate John Cosgrove</a> who was successful in  his May 9 firehouse primary seeking the Republican nomination for the  14th Senate District.<br /><br />Bolling has stepped to the plate with his PAC, his experience, his reputation, and his willingness to endorse candidates interested in effective, common sense governing. That includes a pro-business attitude, fiscal responsibility, and a willingness to work toward searching for bi-partisan, pragmatic solutions. Reinforcing that commitment, Bolling noted:<br /><blockquote>"If  we are going to win elections in Virginia, we must nominate candidates  who will appeal to Republicans and Independents and attract new people  to our party.  I believe these candidates will help us accomplish that  goal, but they need your help to win."</blockquote>The two-term lieutenant governor, who had been very involved and inviting with the grassroots of the party and conservative bloggers during his years in Richmond, unexpectedly found himself in his new leadership role as senior statesman after stepping away from the 2013 gubernatorial race. A series of maneuverings within RPV led to the takeover of the state central committee by the tea party and Libertarian activists who then reversed an earlier vote for a 2013 primary to a much more controlled convention, the one that recently took place in Richmond. <br /><br />Because of that change, Bolling briefly flirted with the idea of running as an independent but decided against it in March, prompting the <a href="http://www.newsadvance.com/opinion/editorials/article_39056fa4-8ce7-11e2-af11-001a4bcf6878.html">Lynchburg News and Advance</a> to editorialize:<br /><blockquote>Bill Bolling is no tax-and-spend liberal, no R(epublican) I(n) N(ame) O(nly) as uber-conservative activists have tried to portray him. He’s a traditional Virginia conservative, a public servant who labored for his constituents as a Hanover County supervisor, then state senator and finally lieutenant governor for almost eight years.<br /><br />But the type of public servant Bolling is just isn’t what’s in fashion with the Republicans right today. An elected official who actually believes government has a role in society but who wants it to operate efficiently, leanly and unobtrusively is not the politician the tea party loves who sees government as a beast to be starved.</blockquote>In May, Bolling reflected on his new role in Virginia Republican politics with reporter Errin Whack at the <a href="http://articles.washingtonpost.com/2013-05-15/local/39270093_1_bill-bolling-pac-bob-holsworth">Washington Post</a>:<br /><blockquote>“I found myself in a position of being the voice of a lot of mainstream Republicans across the state who were trying to call our party back to a more mainstream approach to politics and policy,” Bolling said in an interview. “It’s not a role I envisioned playing, but it’s a role I was thrust into because of the way things have evolved, and it’s a role I’m comfortable playing.”</blockquote>It all led to the <a href="http://www.billbolling.com/2013/05/30/virginia-mainstream-project-seeks-a-wider-gop-current-which-would-benefit-us-all/">Virginia Mainstream Project</a>. As the News and Advance wrote in the conclusion of their editorial:<br /><blockquote>In announcing his decision earlier this week, Bolling lamented what  he — and we — see as the “Washingtonization” of Virginia politics.  Political battles, achieving the label of most ideologically pure,  hyper-partisanship and just plain meanspiritedness seem to be oozing  their way into the halls of the state Capitol.<br /><br />That’s not Bill Bolling’s way of leading. That’s not “The Virginia Way” of governing, or at least it hasn’t been.</blockquote>

Bolling's Va Mainstream Project PAC taps 6 candidates for HoD support

Bill Bolling House of Delegates Lieutenant Governor Lynchburg News and Advance radio campaign ads Ron Paul Libertarians tea party Virginia Mainstream Project Washington Post Bolling's Va Mainstream Project PAC taps 6 candidates for HoD support

In the second wave of flexing his political muscle, Lieutenant Governor Bill Bolling's "Virginia Mainstream Project" (VMP) ha...

Butterfly Gardens and Summer Maintenance

8:08 AM Tukiyooo 0

<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This is the sixth article in a series on WILD School Sites, or outdoor classrooms. WILD School Sites are locations that can be used by students, teachers, and the school community as places to learn about wildlife and the environment. The first thing to do when developing a site is to formulate a plan. You can contact your district <a href="http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/Home/ContactUsStandIn/tabid/18270/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Wildlife Communication Specialist</a>, who can walk you through the process to help ensure success. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br /><h3>So what type of project should you do?</h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Remember, no two sites are the same, so each site will consist of different projects. Available resources, such as time, money, space, and labor, will also play a role in what projects are chosen. Last month’s article focused on ground preparation and planting warm season grasses. This month we will look at a few more projects for this time of year.</span><br /><h3>Oooh, look at all those pretty butterflies!</h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Butterfly gardens are a favorite for educators and students alike. However, planning a successful butterfly garden is more involved than simply picking a </span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRFPSZ4RGlxF9z_xPZfxJRmGrUw4IyfpWat3VLwclxIPUEKK19OkSgedhLiVnqoOWbrVGcxHPWE7hFRc0Ljxai1w_0RQGQ8CDUxFQShHRus0oRtwq5U3wEHlTp8SFwaceMFcTqWzXnumY/s1600/redspottedpurple.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="126" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCRFPSZ4RGlxF9z_xPZfxJRmGrUw4IyfpWat3VLwclxIPUEKK19OkSgedhLiVnqoOWbrVGcxHPWE7hFRc0Ljxai1w_0RQGQ8CDUxFQShHRus0oRtwq5U3wEHlTp8SFwaceMFcTqWzXnumY/s200/redspottedpurple.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Red-spotted purples like black cherry </span><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">and cottonwood trees and serviceberry shrubs.</span></td></tr></tbody></table> few plants with “butterfly” in the name. In order to ensure that butterflies are attracted to and stay at your garden, you need to provide the proper habitat for butterflies, just as you would any other animal. In addition, when planning your butterfly garden, use native flowering plants. These plants have co-evolved with butterflies and provide the food and foliage butterflies need. Native plants are also better adapted to local soils, pests, and weather conditions and require less maintenance and upkeep.</span><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmz5HNEsizpm2EKQOy_3jC-6MmMvJYljQwFStKKdpeIBNSP4oalJZ7_E6hg9qW_Ste8pRS3RHSsU9BmdOwbXy8gs2MnqInKmK5r_v_QzIO25fVL1m9GYqNr_Y8As1ouWpBr0Pz2dF01f0O/s1600/tigerswallowtail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmz5HNEsizpm2EKQOy_3jC-6MmMvJYljQwFStKKdpeIBNSP4oalJZ7_E6hg9qW_Ste8pRS3RHSsU9BmdOwbXy8gs2MnqInKmK5r_v_QzIO25fVL1m9GYqNr_Y8As1ouWpBr0Pz2dF01f0O/s200/tigerswallowtail.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tiger Swallowtails prefer a variety of trees <br />and will also lay on lilac bushes.</td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So what is butterfly habitat? Well, each species of butterfly has different requirements; however, all butterflies do need both host plants and the nectar producing plants which are more often promoted. The host plants serve as larval food for the caterpillars and are species specific. Information on host plant requirements can be found in most butterfly books, including the <a href="http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/Portals/9/pdf/pub204.pdf" target="_blank">Butterfly and Skipper Field Guide</a> provided by the Ohio Division of Wildlife. Nectar producing plants provide food and attract butterflies. When choosing nectar plants try to select plants that bloom throughout the season. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br /><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWOyg9LeNgWLf-2Bm-eZG8ujHA2KgkU5TrfBt0I1IfseQbzKDEsKZq5D5dNsHWfPy-JQkH4cKQHB7wSfhhC4rd4FN6rlpDSBexKARw3ARgwDurlsZA27yY0Tq7QNP0ryu4MZ7INghuAqtb/s1600/Viceroy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="137" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWOyg9LeNgWLf-2Bm-eZG8ujHA2KgkU5TrfBt0I1IfseQbzKDEsKZq5D5dNsHWfPy-JQkH4cKQHB7wSfhhC4rd4FN6rlpDSBexKARw3ARgwDurlsZA27yY0Tq7QNP0ryu4MZ7INghuAqtb/s200/Viceroy.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Is this a monarch? Go to the field guide<br /> link above to find out for sure!</td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">In addition to host and nectar plants, butterflies need shelter, just as any other animal does. A row of shrubs or trees can protect butterflies from strong winds. Many species of trees and bushes are host plants, and can serve a dual purpose.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> </span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br /><br /><h3>School is out for the summer…now what?</h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As the last school bell rings each year, both students and teachers can be seen scrambling for the doors. But what about the WILD School sites? Many of the newly planted shrubs, trees, and flowers need extra attention during their first year, particularly during the hot and dry summer. What about weeds. You don’t want to return in September needing a machete to find your way through the garden. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Proper planning</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> really can go a long way toward minimizing maintenance requirements. Using native plants, which are better adapted to local environments and conditions, goes a long way. In addition, using weed barriers and mulches also help significantly. In the end, though, someone will need to occasionally visit the site in the summer to perform some routine maintenance and watering.</span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-6ymYd4eNj5GU9WrLx0kDUoz-wEdeFeMRc8YeO3SPZtfr65KHfj_il1rBrsoecSZ37ipzaEbEXT-wYt6t37g6Y2xdGFMbIbapgbR7b75nOFhHjqrPxyA95hLSfHjGW50kOKFu_Lf-pSAK/s1600/Mellie430dt300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-6ymYd4eNj5GU9WrLx0kDUoz-wEdeFeMRc8YeO3SPZtfr65KHfj_il1rBrsoecSZ37ipzaEbEXT-wYt6t37g6Y2xdGFMbIbapgbR7b75nOFhHjqrPxyA95hLSfHjGW50kOKFu_Lf-pSAK/s1600/Mellie430dt300.jpg" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To begin, this doesn’t have to fall upon one person. Some schools find it beneficial to split the duty up with schedules. Classrooms or families can sign up to be responsible for watering and weeding for a few days or a week. A bike ride to visit the site is a great way for families to spend a summer evening. Soaker hoses not only minimize water usage, but are relatively cheap and make watering simple. </span><br /><span style="font-family: Verdana;"></span><br /><h3>A Final Thought</h3><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Although most WILD School Sites contain multiple projects that can take years to develop from start to finish, now is the time to get some plantings in. As the weather begins to turn from warm to hot, don’t let everyone’s hard work wither away. A summer schedule gets students off the couch and back outside. For more information about these projects or other WILD School Site projects, contact your district’s <a href="http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/Home/ContactUsStandIn/tabid/18270/Default.aspx" target="_blank">Wildlife Communications Specialist</a>. </span>

Butterfly Gardens and Summer Maintenance

This is the sixth article in a series on WILD School Sites, or outdoor classrooms. WILD School Sites are locations that can be used by stude...

Sally Landes: Lady of the English house at Frontier Culture Museum

7:32 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Uh2Y-9KCeR6OG8YNznekhFk_EWH26fEt172u-G9TE0osc9rs7akF46gdTSJYA8ZCZC27TPb0_kCMO1H0q9UDxWc6ZHRKIQNx-E_BcVXG9UhNiICgEND3s_VLVL0XL-ONvd_Q6ekMx5bv/s1600/5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7Uh2Y-9KCeR6OG8YNznekhFk_EWH26fEt172u-G9TE0osc9rs7akF46gdTSJYA8ZCZC27TPb0_kCMO1H0q9UDxWc6ZHRKIQNx-E_BcVXG9UhNiICgEND3s_VLVL0XL-ONvd_Q6ekMx5bv/s640/5.jpg" width="480" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> On Wednesday, Sally Landes was making cheese at the English house at the <a href="http://www.frontiermuseum.org/">Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia</a> located in Staunton. Sally and I first met as homeschool moms about 16 years ago when our daughters were in the same gymnastics class. That was before I got to knew her brother-in-law, Delegate Steve Landes, through local politics. She is one of the costumed historical interpreters at the Museum.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOze43IxUU5zJtBlRdYCOWD-Wgam29XcOC6eAYMDRS8vlNukwgED5jZ6oMNlHc6RfJDBNKWNRO6s-j-GDIA0rnxbIfvzUqEju7ZBqHTJCREQX68FDK_NPyZ7VKkIBcAA75Sg924BZrIAf3/s1600/6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="368" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOze43IxUU5zJtBlRdYCOWD-Wgam29XcOC6eAYMDRS8vlNukwgED5jZ6oMNlHc6RfJDBNKWNRO6s-j-GDIA0rnxbIfvzUqEju7ZBqHTJCREQX68FDK_NPyZ7VKkIBcAA75Sg924BZrIAf3/s400/6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">When visiting the English farm, look for the smiling face under the bonnet and you'll find Sally. She may be baking in the kitchen or sheering sheep or making cheese but whatever she's doing, she often invites onlookers to participate. Children first wash their hands in her "kitchen sink," then help measure or stir ingredients for whatever she's baking. Food ingredients are collected on the farm -- yesterday's cheese was made from cow and/or goat milk from the animals that live at the museum. It's a fascinating experience, and Friday, June 7, will be FREE admission from 6-8:00 p.m., which offers the opportunity to visit and see what everyone is talking about.</div><br />Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell<br />June 5, 2013

Sally Landes: Lady of the English house at Frontier Culture Museum

costumed interpreters Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia history Sally Landes Shenandoah Valley Staunton Virginia Is For Lovers Virginia tourism Sally Landes: Lady of the English house at Frontier Culture Museum

On Wednesday, Sally Landes was making cheese at the English house at the Frontier Culture Museum of Virginia located in Staunton. Sally an...

A stroll in the yard and the sweet smell of honeysuckle

7:17 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafIUy46vSUln9jr8r_W8pNdnlnr3wguNFj8smP6RH6foXwFG4M8PaxFE7MKP8X-OFuiX6SMBVAvmYjU3AdOjeSh-Hcqw9x01ugAB4jFzRP7okMRq8d0N2ZPzbtn-JZHCRM01YdmBGpOOD/s1600/10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjafIUy46vSUln9jr8r_W8pNdnlnr3wguNFj8smP6RH6foXwFG4M8PaxFE7MKP8X-OFuiX6SMBVAvmYjU3AdOjeSh-Hcqw9x01ugAB4jFzRP7okMRq8d0N2ZPzbtn-JZHCRM01YdmBGpOOD/s400/10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> With windows open on these cool late-spring days, the intoxicatingly sweet smell of honeysuckle has wafted in on the breeze, filling the house with its aromatic scent.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogr19UfQKv54vFc0i4i_7-Q2LoPxcuCiW-mWOKByxpgDAh6zlwcWMSKKutKonG6mDslSa7GV_gKhcj8NuyUnu1yktN1lrXORrNw7zfemfPSAFOp7Tc1Skp85zxlFS6yjaO6N9YJnyONcK/s1600/11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogr19UfQKv54vFc0i4i_7-Q2LoPxcuCiW-mWOKByxpgDAh6zlwcWMSKKutKonG6mDslSa7GV_gKhcj8NuyUnu1yktN1lrXORrNw7zfemfPSAFOp7Tc1Skp85zxlFS6yjaO6N9YJnyONcK/s640/11.jpg" width="460" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Roses and peonies are blooming, adding to the sweet fragrances in the yard.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBlB2gFwQ5JN3KKrqVpNP-NRBrJjYFJAIupu9MWJhmFyjbwizdlRV7ChOD7ChDIBfs498eHhrhsAzE6BDO_UUFns-ngMJavsiF6Asl2sAcdH7u5V7Xykr-Kw8q0BR3kQfdPxer1ChBnbIk/s1600/12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="330" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBlB2gFwQ5JN3KKrqVpNP-NRBrJjYFJAIupu9MWJhmFyjbwizdlRV7ChOD7ChDIBfs498eHhrhsAzE6BDO_UUFns-ngMJavsiF6Asl2sAcdH7u5V7Xykr-Kw8q0BR3kQfdPxer1ChBnbIk/s400/12.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGkP8bE4DF4RvAGgUzoYwT5JJLOBSell7iqWmaQfJvfKgEU7lNpmQUh747HMvq7LMX_VBTiqtSfeXd-D3Dx3z3fPvkrdl6f9TKEJ2E_jOZQHlyzk6rCR6dE2FLPMmP0Ag2afm_RRp0oQIr/s1600/13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGkP8bE4DF4RvAGgUzoYwT5JJLOBSell7iqWmaQfJvfKgEU7lNpmQUh747HMvq7LMX_VBTiqtSfeXd-D3Dx3z3fPvkrdl6f9TKEJ2E_jOZQHlyzk6rCR6dE2FLPMmP0Ag2afm_RRp0oQIr/s640/13.jpg" width="404" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> The rain gauge bench <i>aka</i> the resting bench while working in the yard.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKi2M4w6-jQG63Op-vsfUjUYjagx0sg9Lz2JBu2bxIKljNPSub9tgxOZaZ0M9N1xKSzSbkbZ0pgkU-BPYG-zASyVAXq67B9IcXbaRpjHEbwO-yCc8is2P0HhxV-k4Q08O025w35yVDDseI/s1600/14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKi2M4w6-jQG63Op-vsfUjUYjagx0sg9Lz2JBu2bxIKljNPSub9tgxOZaZ0M9N1xKSzSbkbZ0pgkU-BPYG-zASyVAXq67B9IcXbaRpjHEbwO-yCc8is2P0HhxV-k4Q08O025w35yVDDseI/s320/14.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Time for a bonfire to burn piled-up brush in the fire pit.</div><br />Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell<br />June 5, 2013

Augusta County fire pit garden honeysuckle peonies roses Shenandoah Valley yard work A stroll in the yard and the sweet smell of honeysuckle

With windows open on these cool late-spring days, the intoxicatingly sweet smell of honeysuckle has wafted in on the breeze, filling the ho...

In the garden: First jalapeno

7:08 AM Tukiyooo 0

garden jalapeno Shenandoah Valley In the garden: First jalapeno

The first jalapeno. They were planted three weeks later than usual due to a long cold spring. Photo by Lynn R. Mitchell June 5, 2013

Garden flowers

6:57 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsq-MRz9j2wc4PdV6kPqwdkRwNxCfpocpAdg6NqC5z6JBCdpxF6x1_fpj4Z7RKFuIouDDIvoRn9K4hH1jLDXYj-hNYZuKwjjtCsQonh_qjLuyvkbH5o3hznlZ43rv26M9BLAZA1izKOSz/s1600/3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipsq-MRz9j2wc4PdV6kPqwdkRwNxCfpocpAdg6NqC5z6JBCdpxF6x1_fpj4Z7RKFuIouDDIvoRn9K4hH1jLDXYj-hNYZuKwjjtCsQonh_qjLuyvkbH5o3hznlZ43rv26M9BLAZA1izKOSz/s400/3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTJRRyp8ID1h5k9CJNYS5MaeYqwj679H-9fGj-RZpybmY9gXpog3BQA6_MImRoJgETEyFsjgkaBqhoc-7THOUknVV5V_6gSmdKPXHu2f2UUkt_Z_7kB9hJUVWD73LeQfBQePFoQ_cLZAK/s1600/2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHTJRRyp8ID1h5k9CJNYS5MaeYqwj679H-9fGj-RZpybmY9gXpog3BQA6_MImRoJgETEyFsjgkaBqhoc-7THOUknVV5V_6gSmdKPXHu2f2UUkt_Z_7kB9hJUVWD73LeQfBQePFoQ_cLZAK/s400/2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-pNhDnybW4QtjH7JPA1ZPihgFLsKGGpaRKWu5DyZb9hb03iz_sMLfA_48zgdV-uVXoe0zKopiPuU91u4uKhIpaiIhd9ZRvArqNk2CkxRRbMx9Pp_QSWdexb06RROoyXVqR7XAKIZwu8o0/s1600/8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-pNhDnybW4QtjH7JPA1ZPihgFLsKGGpaRKWu5DyZb9hb03iz_sMLfA_48zgdV-uVXoe0zKopiPuU91u4uKhIpaiIhd9ZRvArqNk2CkxRRbMx9Pp_QSWdexb06RROoyXVqR7XAKIZwu8o0/s400/8.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-WGsHtBKqzO14WYczVomrSxy1aVP7aDFVFwxh5ZxrFrhZBuOH82Qc-hyD-ysozIudh-qpi08Mkx7OfC_SQuhum_XQXDMT9Wdgg0GHH8SXP_LRme3bpruyRLwgQnDZgrYLZxJnGLK69DA_/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-WGsHtBKqzO14WYczVomrSxy1aVP7aDFVFwxh5ZxrFrhZBuOH82Qc-hyD-ysozIudh-qpi08Mkx7OfC_SQuhum_XQXDMT9Wdgg0GHH8SXP_LRme3bpruyRLwgQnDZgrYLZxJnGLK69DA_/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell<br />June 5, 2013

Augusta County garden Lynn R. Mitchell Shenandoah Valley summer flowers Virginia Garden flowers

Photos by Lynn R. Mitchell June 5, 2013

Tranquility

6:50 AM Tukiyooo 0

Appalachian Mountains Augusta County Lynn R. Mitchell red hot pokers summer flowers tranquility Virginia Tranquility

Summer flowers are blooming at my house including these red hot pokers looking out over the Appalachian Mountains. Photo by Lynn R. Mitchell...

Buffalo Gap High School Class of 2013

6:46 AM Tukiyooo 0

Augusta County Buffalo Gap High School Class of 2013 Swoope Buffalo Gap High School Class of 2013

Congratulations to the Class of 2013 at Buffalo Gap High School in western Augusta County. We have several graduates in our neighborhood so...

She's alive!

5:23 AM Tukiyooo 0

I'm still here and doing well. Or as well as one could expect for someone like me, which so many issues.<br /><br />It was eight weeks ago today that I had a total abdominal hysterectomy, and seven weeks since I was told I had a very rare and aggressive form of cancer, uterine leiomyosarcoma, Stage IB. There isn't any chemo or radiation for this type of cancer. At Stage I since it usually doesn't respond well to either one. The treatment is just "wait and see". Even after surgery to remove the sarcoma, it will often metastasize into the lungs or liver within six to seventeen months 50% chance, maybe 40% if I look on the bright side.<br /><br />It's been less than 48 hours since my second surgery to remove my remaining ovary. It was a laparscopic surgery and was suppose to take an hour. It took two hours and then seven hours in recovery because I was throwing up and in an incredible amount of pain. I found out later from my surgeon that she had a lot of trouble finding my remaining ovary. The scar tissue from my recent hysterectomy had wrapped around it so there was a lot of cutting away of tissue, which has resulted in a lot of pain.<br /><br />I have five incisions in my abdomen, which indicates it was robotic laparscopic surgery. My surgeon specializes in robotics (although I forgot to ask her if she used robotics). I'd never heard of five incisions for laparscopic, I thought it was always three or four maximum. Not true for robotics, it's always five, and each of mine are an inch long. I also have an unusual amount of bruising at each incision site. Add in my six-inch vertical incision from my hysterectomy and my abdomen looks like it's been through hell. <br /><br />I still feel very tired and sore. Extreme pain when getting out of or into bed or the recliner. Since this was a difficult surgery and involved a lot more cutting than expected, my surgeon suggested I stay on medical leave for two weeks, until June 17. The way I feel right now, I completely agree with her.<br /><br />The most upsetting thing about the surgery was when I weighed myself yesterday. I had gained 14 pounds overnight! I was 197 the morning of the surgery and I was 211 the day after the surgery (on my home scales). I read online that this happens due to the gas and fluid retention, but 14 pounds overnight is pretty tough to take. I didn't weigh yesterday, but I'm really watching what I eat. My latest weight loss tool is MyFitnessPal app on my phone. I know tracking my food is extremely important. <br /><br />I quit Weight Watchers. Since my favorite leader left, it's just not the same. I might go back some day, especially if I don't start losing weight soon. I've read that it can take up to two weeks to lose the water weight from laparscopic surgery.<br /><br />The criminal trial for with my husband is suppose to happen this coming Tuesday, but I suspect it's going to be "continued" (delayed). At least that's what the prosecutor's office told me. I guess I'll find out next week, although I'd really like to get it over.  <br /><br />Not much else going on in my life. Actually, there is something going on that I'm dying to post about, but it's probably best that I wait awhile. I mentioned it a couple of months ago, then I pulled the post. If you read that post, then that thing I talked about is going really well. :)<br /><br />I rejoined the gym 2 1/2 weeks ago, and went five days each week. Of course now I've had a major setback in my exercise routine. For the next couple of weeks all I'm allowed to do is walk.

She's alive!

I'm still here and doing well. Or as well as one could expect for someone like me, which so many issues. It was eight weeks ago today th...

D-Day 1944: It was about honor, duty, and sacrifice

4:22 AM Tukiyooo 0

<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiidsPmH0qo_r0f4J7n9VtZeqYYiEhucGDsfr0g-NsPAiXYVP07qr5wHrjqOBfzFDORtZkld1teu9Ctuj5ZtmHJry0oHVk7xpv5fEdEYtOnd8RwRaDOMqKVTfCiem2BG5cin52hPkUsSpyW/s1600/American+flag+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiidsPmH0qo_r0f4J7n9VtZeqYYiEhucGDsfr0g-NsPAiXYVP07qr5wHrjqOBfzFDORtZkld1teu9Ctuj5ZtmHJry0oHVk7xpv5fEdEYtOnd8RwRaDOMqKVTfCiem2BG5cin52hPkUsSpyW/s320/American+flag+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />Today is D-Day. How many will continue to remember this major milestone battle of World War II that played such a big part in the freedom we enjoy? How many will keep the observance alive even as the Greatest Generation dies off and the memories fade?<br /><br />One family's wordsmith kept the memory of sacrifice and loss alive after penning a Memorial Day column some years ago. Lee Wolverton, then publisher and editor of the <i><a href="http://www2.newsvirginian.com/news/2011/may/30/editorial-spirit-endures-ar-1071549/?referer=None&shorturl=http://bit.ly/m2vazG">Waynesboro News-Virginian</a>,</i> remembered his grandfather who had given the ultimate sacrifice on D-Day when he parachuted in over enemy territory. It is a remembrance that has become a <i>NV</i> tradition each Memorial Day, and it seemed particularly fitting today since the actual event took place on D-Day.<br /><blockquote>In the wee-hour darkness, the stocky young colonel stood on an earthen mound, gazing into the faces of the 750 warriors before him.<br /><br /> “Men,” he said, “I am not a religious man, and I don’t know your feelings in this matter, but I am going to ask you to pray with me for the success of the mission before us. And while we pray, let us get on our knees and not look down, but up with faces raised to the sky.”<br /><br />In the orchard outside Exeter, England, rifles clanked against helmets as the soldiers descended to their knees in the dew-dampened grass.  “God almighty, in a few short hours we will be in battle with the enemy. We do not join battle afraid. We do not ask favors or indulgence but ask that if you will, use us as your instrument for right and an aid in returning peace to the world.<br /><br />“We do not know or seek what our fate will be. We ask only this, that if die we must, that we die as men would die, without complaining, without pleading, safe in the feeling that we have done our best for what we believed was right.<br /><br />“Oh, Lord, protect our loved ones and be near us in the fire ahead and with us now as we each pray to you.”<br /><br />The paratroopers then clambered aboard C-47 airplanes for the flight to their drop zone: Normandy, June 6, 1944.<br /><br />For the colonel, it was the fulfillment of a dream born during his days as a boy picking apples in mountain orchards outside his native Elkins, W.Va. After graduation from West Point, with war looming, he was assigned a battalion in the elite 101st Airborne Division in preparation for the largest invasion in military history.<br /><br />The moment for which he longed ended instantly.  He was hit in the chest by a series of machine gun rounds as he descended from the heavens into a sea of German artillery fire. By the end of the fighting in Normandy, almost 100 of his men had joined him among the war dead.<br /><br />Widely scattered but well-trained, the survivors soldiered on, seizing a pair of bridges over the Douve River and cutting off routes for German reinforcements at Utah Beach. The colonel’s troops later fought in Operation Market Garden in Holland and the pivotal Battle of the Bulge in Bastogne.<br /><br />Memories of 3rd Battalion commander Lt. Col. Robert Lee Wolverton remained vivid more than six decades after the invasion. The colonel and those who perished with him in Normandy embodied not only the sacrifice we honor today, but also a uniquely American spirit that transcends eras and debates over the merits of war.  It is a spirit that lives in those who have given all and those who risk it in Iraq and in Afghanistan. Pray it endures forever.</blockquote>Nowhere did Normandy hit home more than in Bedford, Virginia, where the <a href="http://www.dday.org/">National D-Day Memorial</a> is located as a reminder of a small town that <a href="http://www.dday.org/index.php?page=whybedford">sacrificed so much for America</a>:<br /><blockquote>Like eleven other Virginia communities, Bedford provided a company of soldiers (Company A) to the 29th Infantry Division when the National Guard's 116th Infantry Regiment was activated on 3 February 1941.<br /><br />Some thirty Bedford soldiers were still in that company on D-Day; several more from Bedford were in other D-Day companies, including one who, two years earlier, had been reassigned from the 116th Infantry to the First Infantry Division. Thus he had already landed in both Northern Africa and Sicily before coming ashore on D-Day at Omaha Beach with the Big Red One.<br /><br />Company A of the 116th Infantry assaulted Omaha Beach as part of the First Division's Task Force O. By day's end, nineteen of the company's Bedford soldiers were dead. Two more Bedford soldiers died later in the Normandy campaign, as did yet another two assigned to other 116th Infantry companies. Bedford's population in 1944 was about 3,200.<br /><br />Proportionally this community suffered the nation's severest D-Day losses. Recognizing Bedford as emblematic of all communities, large and small, whose citizen-soldiers served on D-Day, Congress warranted the establishment of the National D-Day Memorial here.</blockquote>Sadly, Bob Slaughter, 87, a D-Day veteran and one of the driving forces behind the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, <a href="http://www.roanoke.com/news/breaking/wb/309466">passed away in 2012 in Roanoke</a>.  The <i>Roanoke Times</i> wrote:<br /><blockquote>On D-Day, the June 6, 1944, invasion of Nazi-controlled Normandy, John  Robert “Bob” Slaughter of Roanoke waded ashore toward the death and  chaos of Omaha Beach as a sergeant and squad leader in Company D, 116th  Infantry, 29th Division. He was 19 years old. At 6-feet, 5-inches tall he presented a large target.<br /><br />The  memories of that history-changing day during World War II and of the  months of fierce combat that followed in France and Germany compelled  Slaughter decades later to fight for and help win a memorial for the  D-Day veterans who turned the tide of war against Germany.</blockquote>It was said after D-Day that we would never forget. Will future generations remember that promise?

D-Day 1944: It was about honor, duty, and sacrifice

America Bedford D-Day France freedom Germany Lee Wolverton liberty National D-Day Memorial Normandy D-Day 1944: It was about honor, duty, and sacrifice

Today is D-Day. How many will continue to remember this major milestone battle of World War II that played such a big part in the freedom we...