Obama: No One Talks To The Media, Class Dismissed

"So much for Freedom of Speech? Obama wants to control what the media tells us about health and human services. Lovely."

Hey folks,

Here is the LINK: The Commentary- HHS Bans Staff from Speaking Freely with Media

Health and Human Services has just released a revised media policy, which forbids staffers from talking to journalists without first getting authorization from the HHS press office. The policy also bans employees from speaking off-the-record with reporters, rules that could significantly hinder investigative journalism.

Health-focused trade publications, which are dependent on confidential sources in agencies like the HHS, are already blasting the policy. Jim Dickinson, editor of FDA Webview and FDA Review called them a “Soviet-style power grab” and warned that the “existing [trade] media will likely die out” because of them:

The new formal HHS Guidelines on the Provision of Information to the News Media represent, to this 36-year veteran of reporting FDA news, a Soviet-style power-grab. By requiring all HHS employees to arrange their information-sharing with news media through their agency press office, HHS has formalized a creeping information-control mechanism that informally began during the Clinton Administration​ and was accelerated by the Bush and Obama administrations.

Consider how impossible these guidelines make the acquisition by a journalist of confidential internal sources in an agency like FDA. The existence of such confidential sources gave an economic foundation to and made possible the foundation of my own media, and the founding of earlier trade media such as The Pink Sheet and Food Chemical News, among many others.

The rules will make accurate coverage of the HHS much more difficult. Banning HHS staffers from talking off-the-record could have a chilling effect, and requiring them to get their conversations with journalists authorized by the media relations office means that the public will get less truth and more spin.

And as Cato’s Michael Cannon points out, the policy changes come at a noteworthy time:

Since this came on the heels of an HHS official announcing that the agency is scuttling ObamaCare‘s long-term care entitlement, a.k.a. the “CLASS Act,” one wonders if there is a connection. Or maybe HHS is just motivated by a general fear that the more the public learns about ObamaCare, the less we will like it.

It sounds like the changes have been happening slowly for some time, but the agency’s decision might have been prompted by an embarrassing email leak from the CLASS Act office last week. The major concern now is that if HHS gets away with this new policy, other government agencies could end up following suit.

Well? This is not new. One, the Mainstream Media Drones, the MMD, have simply reported whatever they are told to Report, and NOT to, for DECADES. They just stopped trying to hind it since 2000 when Bush got Elected. They REALLY gave up hiding their Liberal Lean since Bush's Re-election. But this is not new. That's why I call them the MMD. Hell, what is it, MSNBC I think that even ADVERTISE that they now "Learn Forward." In other words, "Progressive." Which is another word for LIBERAL.

Second, I have worked FOR Companies and Organizations that had Policies that Stated that NO ONE could speak to the Media without Permission to do so. So none of this is NEW or surprising. None of it is really News. But THIS is. This one line in this Piece IS News.

Since this came on the heels of an HHS official announcing that the agency is scuttling ObamaCare‘s long-term care entitlement, a.k.a. the “CLASS Act,” one wonders if there is a connection.

Ah, yes. The Class Act. Remember that? That was a long term care funding for Seniors. Nursing Homes and Such. End of Life Care. It was said to be set to rake in $86 billion in premiums from 2012-2021. This was included in Obamacare to "prove" that is would actually lower costs and keep it under that One Trillion number. But the problem is, that it was all a lie. Class would pay out substantially more than that over the long term, rapidly generating Deficits and go into Bankruptcy. Even Obama's own Crew Members said so. They even said that the Class Act should not be included in Obamacare. That is WAS unsustainable.

So back on September 22, 2011:

This morning, Bob Yee, who was tasked with serving as the actuary of the CLASS program, sent out an email to his colleagues, announcing his departure from HHS, given that “HHS has decided to close down the CLASS Office effective tomorrow.” Yee writes that “I believe I have made a contribution to CLASS to the best of my ability and hope I haven’t embarrassed the actuarial profession too much.”

So no more Long Term Care for Seniors? We already know Obama's Plan for old People. "Take a Pill." {Smile} So the real News here is NOT that Obama wants to control what his Crew say to the Media. The real News here? Class dismissed.
Peter

Sources:
The Commentary- HHS Bans Staff from Speaking Freely with Media
FORBES - HHS Official: Administration is Shuttering CLASS, Obamacare's Long-Term Care Entitlement

Obama To Give Two More Solyndras $1 BILLION

Not too much time this morning. Glad I need none. Just read this.

Hey Folks,

So you have this idea. You spend a HALF a Billion Dollars. It fails. What do you do? Well, if you are Obama, you double down. {Sigh} Here we go again. According to The AP - Obama admin approves 2 solar loans worth $1B By MATTHEW DALY Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) -- The Energy Department on Wednesday approved two loan guarantees worth more than $1 billion for solar energy projects in Nevada and Arizona, two days before the expiration date of a program that has become a rallying cry for Republican critics of the Obama administration's green energy program.

Energy Secretary Steven Chu said the department has completed a $737 million loan guarantee to Tonopah Solar Energy for a 110 megawatt solar tower on federal land near Tonopah, Nev., and a $337 million guarantee for Mesquite Solar 1 to develop a 150 megawatt solar plant near Phoenix.

The loans were approved under the same program that paid for a $528 million loan to Solyndra Inc., a California solar panel maker that went bankrupt after receiving the money and laid off 1,100 workers. Solyndra is under investigation by the FBI and is the focal point of House hearings on the program.

SolarReserve LLC, of Santa Monica, Calif., the parent company for Tonopah, is privately held. The Energy Department said its rules prevented it from discussing the company's financial information. Sempra Energy of San Diego, which owns Mesquite, is publicly held.

Energy Department spokesman Damien LaVera said the two projects had extensive reviews that included scrutiny of the parent companies' finances.

So no, we will not tell you if like Solyndra, they will take your money and run. No, we will not tell you, that we believe that even though there is NO MARKET, these will be successful. Just, uh, trust us. We know better than you.

Chu said the Nevada project would produce enough electricity to power more than 43,000 homes, while the Arizona project would power nearly 31,000 homes. The two projects will create about 900 construction jobs and at least 52 permanent jobs, Chu said.

"If we want to be a player in the global clean energy race, we must continue to invest in innovative technologies that enable commercial-scale deployment of clean, renewable power like solar," Chu said in a statement.

So? $737 million to power 43,000 homes? Or to line pocket of those about to skip out. Either way, that is a lot of money for nothing. Also, there is no guarantee that ANY Jobs will be created. Zero. So far Obama's track record on actually creating all the jobs he promised is less than stellar. Any time he wants to spend MORE of your money, he says Jobs, Jobs, Jobs. Then jokes about it later when NONE are created.

Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., is a strong supporter of the Nevada project, which he says will help his state's economy recover. Former Gov. Jim Gibbons, a Republican, also supported the project.

The loan approvals came just two days before a renewable energy loan program approved under the 2009 economic stimulus law is set to expire. At least seven projects worth more than $5 billion are pending.

Rep. Cliff Stearns, R-Fla., chairman of a House energy subcommittee that is investigating Solyndra, said the impending deadline was no reason to complete loans before they are ready.

"Solyndra was the product of a bad bet rushed out the door, and taxpayers are now on the hook," he said. "We cannot afford DOE rushing out more Solyndras in these final hours."

A government watchdog group said the Solyndra bankruptcy shows the need for greater oversight of all the department's loan guarantee programs.

"It is time for a full audit of their activities, their management and their results," said Tom Schatz, president of Citizens Against Government Waste, Washington-based advocacy group.

"Candidly, it might be time for the federal government to rethink the whole idea of loan programs," Schatz added, calling the government's track record on loan guarantees "lousy."

Too often, the government either backs risky or failing ventures, resulting in a loss of taxpayer money, or subsidizes companies and industries that are mature and profitable and don't need the money, such as the oil and gas industry, Schatz said.

Scott Crider, a spokesman for Sempra Generation, a Sempra Energy subsidiary that is developing the Arizona project, said its loan guarantee was far less risky than the Solyndra loan. Most importantly, the project has a 20-year agreement with Pacific Gas & Electric Co. to buy power supplied by the solar plant, he said.

The purchase agreement is a key element of the project and will "provide assurance that there are sufficient revenues in place to support the loan guarantee," Crider said.

A similar agreement is in place in Nevada. NV Energy, the state's largest electric utility, has agreed to purchase power from the Tonopah tower, which will connect to NV Energy's power grid. The Interior Department approved the project, known as Crescent Dunes, last year.

Solyndra, of Fremont, Calif., was the first company to receive a loan guarantee under a stimulus-law program to encourage green energy and was frequently touted by the Obama administration as a model. Since then, the company's implosion and revelations that officials hurried review of the loan in time for a September 2009 groundbreaking has become an embarrassment for Obama as he tries to sell his job-creation program.

So there you have it folks, SCREW Jobs. Screw the Economy. Forget what we have and KNOW works. For get the Government getting out of the way and letting the Free Market be FREE. No. Another BILLION Dollars down the drain. How's that Hope and Change working out for ya?
Peter

Sources:

AP - Obama admin approves 2 solar loans worth $1B

A Green Energy Activist Wakes Up

No matter how good the Dream is, you always have to wake up to Reality.

Hey folks,

Happy Tuesday morning to ya. Here is a classic example of someone who was in the middle of a GREAT Dream. Have you ever been there? You tuck yourself in and slip off to Dreamland, finding yourself somewhere in the Past, or with someone you love, in some exotic location? It is one of those Dream that seem so real. You are having the time of your life. However? No matter how good the Dream is, you always have to wake up to Reality.

Well this is what is happening today. Someone who use to be Dreaming Green, and looking to tap into some of all that Money to help HIS State, "Go Green," has woken up. According to The USA Today - Critic of Obama clean-energy loans lobbied Energy Department By Aamer Madhani, USA TODAY

WASHINGTON – The Republican lawmaker leading the charge against an Obama administration loan guarantee program for clean-energy companies wasn't always so skeptical of government attempts to boost the green economy.

Rep. Fred Upton, R-Mich., the chairman of House Energy and Commerce Committee, previously lobbied the Department of Energy to lend money for at least four energy projects in his home state through the same loan program. But after last month's bankruptcy of the solar panel manufacturer Solyndra — the first company to win a DOE clean-energy loan funded through Obama's $825 billion stimulus plan — Upton was among the Republican lawmakers who decried the Department of Energy loan guarantee program for "picking winners and losers."

Now, Upton is suggesting that the DOE program — which has about $7 billion in conditional loan commitments to green firms that are due to be finalized by the end of this week — may amount to "risky investments for American taxpayers." Upton and Rep. Cliff Stearns, R-Fla., wrote to Energy Secretary Steven Chu last week and urged him not to rush to finalize several loans that are required by statute to be closed by Friday.

House Energy subcommittee staff are scheduled to meet today with Energy Department officials to discuss the outstanding loans.

"In this time of record debt, I question whether the government is qualified to act as a venture capitalist, picking winners and losers in speculative ventures and shelling out billions of taxpayer dollars to keep them afloat," Upton said at a hearing earlier this month

.Amen! but that is EXACTLY what the Government is doing. The ONLY reason MOST of these "Green Energy" Companies exist is BECAUSE the Government is funding them. THERE IS NO MARKET out there, not yet anyway, to support this entire Industry.

Look, we have not perfected a Viable Alternative. We have not made it affordable for all. We have not figured out a Mass Distribution and Support for it. We have NOTING to Switch to. There is NOTHING there BUT Dreams. Yet, those wanting to further the Green Dream, want to do so at the Cost of what we DO have, and what WORKS. They do not care that your Energy Cost Skyrocket. They do not care that they are using YOUR money to fund LOSING Propositions. They have Agendas and they are sticking to them.

The more and more information that is coming out about Solyndra, the more and more it appears to be nothing more than a Money Laundering Scheme. YOUR Tax money. A HALF a BILLION dollars of your Tax Money. Now we have learned that one of the Biggest Creditors of Solyndra, WAS the Democrat Party.

In the aftermath of Solyndra's collapse, Upton and other Republicans have noted that a foundation tied to an Obama fundraiser was a major investor in the Fremont, Calif.-based company and questioned whether politics played a role in Solyndra winning the loan guarantee. As the result of an ongoing Energy subcommittee investigation, the White House was forced to release a series of e-mails that suggested administration officials were eager to see the deal finalized, so Vice President Biden could attend a 2009 groundbreaking ceremony for Solyndra.

But in the past, Upton, like many of his Republican colleagues, voted in favor of energy policy laws that created the loan guarantee program and lobbied the Energy Department to back loans for firms in their state.

Backed loan guarantees

In 2005, when Republicans controlled Congress and the White House, Upton voted for an energy law that included a loan guarantee program to help support companies looking to develop renewable energy projects as well as nuclear and coal. And in 2007, Upton backed legislation that created the Advanced Technology Vehicle Manufacturing (ATVM) Loan Program, targeting manufacturers and suppliers looking to retool U.S. factories to build high-fuel economy vehicles.

Yeah, it was a Good Dream. Some good has come from it. However, we are talking 2005. Billions upon Billions of Dollars. 6 Years later? We have more efficient Vehicles. They can go farther on a Gallon of gas. Your home, if a Newer one, is more Efficient. But in Reality, not much has changed. So why are we throwing more and more money down the drain? Money we do not have. Did you know this? According to this piece in the USA Today...

Damien LaVera, an Energy Department spokesman, noted that only about 40 applicants out of hundreds were granted conditional loan guarantees and that all applicants are rigorously vetted by internal analysts and outside experts.

"We evaluate the technical aspects of an application to make sure the technology is feasible, work to ensure that projects can be built to scale, do extensive market analysis to ensure there is a place in the market for the product, and evaluate the finances of the project to ensure it is commercially viable," LaVera said.

Only 40 out of Hundreds have been Vetted? 40? Meanwhile we have an Administration that wants to continue to shell out Billions to support these Companies. How many are just like Solyndra? Shell Companies that have alternative plans to do with all that money. We already know that there is NO Market for this. So where is all that Money going to end up?

It's OK a Dream. It really is. I Dream of a greener world. I want to leave this World cleaner and more efficient that it is now, for MY Sons, and their Children for generations to come. Those of you who know me, KNOW that I am big on Recycling. For the sole reason that we only have so much land to fill with all the Garbage we dispose of daily. There are some working hard on trying to figure out how to turn some of that into Energy. I say GREAT! But the Technology is not there yet. The Technology is not there for Mass Solar and or Wind. I would LOVE to drive around in a Vehicle that is powered by, say, Water. Live in a home where the Sun runs everything I need. Where the Rain becomes a source of consumption and even perhaps Power. Where I need not worry about Blackouts. Or Skyrocketing Electric Bills. It's OK to Dream. I share your Dream. But to have this, or ANY Dream become a REALITY, one must never lose track of Reality. No. We MUST find a way to convert the DREAM into something that is VIABLE and Compatible WITH Reality.

Right now in this Country, our Economy is hurting. People are hurting. Our Wealth is SHRINKING. Money is tight and getting more difficult for many to come by. To MANDATE that people spend BILLIONS on this unrealized Dream is just INSANE. First, lets Explore and Drill MORE of what we KNOW we have, and what we know WORKS. Lets put Hundreds of Thousands of people to work. Lets INCREASE our National Security. Let's INCREASE our Revenue to the Government the RIGHT way. And we are talking Hundreds of Billions. Lets make Energy AFFORDABLE for ALL. THEN, and in the MEANTIME, lets continue to look for Viable Alternatives and let the Free Market decide the Winners and the Losers. Trust me folks, when someone DOES finally figure out a Viable Alternative, NOTHING will stop it from coming about. NOTHING. It will happen, and we will all be better off in the long run for it.

The problem is, we are FAR from that today. If the Government would just get out of the way, we will get there. There is no doubt in my mind. Perhaps in MY lifetime, I may be living the "Green Life." But as long as the Government is involved, propping up Companies that are doomed to fail, the process will take a lot longer. If we continue to simply further agendas instead of simply getting out of the way, we may NEVER get there. It's time to wake up and look at Reality. People need Jobs, Affordable Energy, Security, and we need the Economy to improve TODAY, far more than we need to Dream about a POSSIBLE tomorrow.
Peter

Sources:
The USA Today - Critic of Obama clean-energy loans lobbied Energy Department

The Government Wants Your Health Records. All of Them

Preview for Sunday 092511

Hey folks,

Happy Sunday to ya. Welcome to the Our oPinion Network. I AM of course your Provocateur of thought himself, Peter Carlock and this IS the OPNTalk Big Sunday Edition. Glad you could stop by. Always remember, if YOU want to be a part of the OPNTalk Blog, or just say Hi, the Email is opntalk@gmail.com.

There is a new Development in Russia that needs the attention of all those in Washington. I have told you for years that Putin was not going anywhere and that HE was still in charge. Now EVERYONE is saying it, and it turns out him and the current President will be Job Swapping. More on that as we get into the days events. Also coming right up today,

Putin To Be President of Russia, The New USSR?
Ozone Protection At Expense Of Children
DLA For Sunday 092511
IWA For Sunday 092511

So now Obama wants your Medical Records. ALL of them. Did you catch this? According toThe Washington Examiner - Obamacare HHS rule would give government everybody’s health records

It’s been said a thousand times: Congress had to pass President Obama’s health care law in order to find out what’s in it. But, despite the repetitiveness, the level of shock from each new discovery never seems to recede.

This time, America is learning about the federal government’s plan to collect and aggregate confidential patient records for every one of us.

So forget the Doctor Patient Privilege, now Obama and Crew and others in Government will know all your Health information. Including your Personal information like how you are paying for it, ETC. When are we going to see Obama's? Hm? When will he release HIS Health Records? While he is at it, why not release his school records as well, maybe then, he will actually have something to point to to show his Brilliance. Yeah I know.

Get ready folks, 2012 is coming. We need to get rid of Obamacare all together. We need to reverse all the damage that this Administration has been doing. We need to get rid of Obama himself. We need to send reinforcements. Only by sheer numbers can we fix the mess we are in. Four more years of Obama and Crew? THAT we can not afford. America itself is at stake here. The Good news? People are starting to recognize this for what it is. the TRUTH.

Be right back.
Peter

Sources:
The Washington Examiner - Obamacare HHS rule would give government everybody’s health records

Putin To Be President of Russia, The New USSR?

The return to the New USSR is almost complete.

Hey folks,

It truly is sad, when little old me, an everyday kind of guy, with a Blog, know more about World Affairs than the President of the United States, and his Advisers. It makes the World a FAR scarier place than ever.

I have been talking about Russia for years. I have told you that Putin was not going anywhere. He has been in charge the whole time. He has been working on returning all the Lands lost and working on creating a NEW USSR.Back in January and February of 2008, I was talking to you about Putin wants to start a NEW Cold War with us. I just posted OPNTalk - Russia Up To Dirty Tricks Again.

Check out the archives and you will see all the things I have been warning you about is coming to pass. Medvedev was just a figurehead. A Puppet. Now, Medvedev will be taking Putin's place as Prime Minister and Vladimir will once again become President. According to the AP- Putin to run for Russian presidency in 2012 By JIM HEINTZ

MOSCOW (AP) -- Vladimir Putin's decision to reclaim the presidency next year sets up the possibility that he could rule Russia until 2024 and foreshadows a continuation of the strongman rule that many in the West have called a retreat from democracy.

He WANTS the old days of Mother Russia BACK.

Although Putin departed the Kremlin in 2008 due to term limits and moved about two kilometers (1.5 miles) down the road to the prime minister's office, in a sense he never left at all. He cannily used Russia's state-controlled national TV channels to remain the country's pre-eminent political figure, with appearances portraying himself as a bold adventurer in Russia's wilderness, a vigorous advocate of the country's global importance and, occasionally, as a bit of a rogue consorting with scruffy motorcyclists.

His hand-picked successor as president, Dmitry Medvedev, appeared as little more than a tame youngster in comparison - enthusing about Twitter and issuing earnest statements about the need for reforms, but achieving few tangible results.

"He didn't do anything important, and I'm pretty sure they didn't let him do anything," said Vyachelsav Mazurkov, who was spending a cool fall afternoon in a Moscow park soon after the congress of Russia's dominant political party approved Putin's candidacy. Although Medvedev had shown flashes of independence, particularly in denouncing the corruption that flourished during Putin's presidency, he was seen by many as simply a placeholder while Putin bided his time until he could legally return.

Kind of the way the rest of the World sees OUR President, the inexperienced man-boy President, Barack Obama. They do not fear him. They do not trust him to make wise decisions. They feel now is the time to make their moves. Now according to The Financial Times - Putin to return as Russian president By Charles Clover and Catherine Belton in Moscow September 24, 2011 6:20 pm

Russia’s prime minister Vladimir Putin will return to his post as president next year after he and president Dmitry Medvedev announced they were switching jobs.

The announcement was made on Saturday at the annual conference of United Russia, the hegemonic party that controls two-thirds of Russia’s parliament. It put to rest intrigue over Mr Putin’s next move.

Now many are saying what I have told you from the beginning.

The announcement confirms the long-held impression that Mr Medvedev was only ever a place holder for Mr Putin, who was constitutionally prohibited from a third term after serving as president from 2000-2008.

Mr Putin is now likely to win two consecutive 6 year terms, giving him a total of a quarter century in power from the time he took over the Kremlin in 2000. He remains Russia’s strongest political figure despite stepping aside for four years.

Mr Putin started proceedings, telling delegates that Mr Medvedev would succeed him in heading the United Russia party’s election list in December 4 parliamentary elections. Later, he suggested Mr Medvedev’s candidacy for prime minister, which Mr Medvedev accepted.

Also according to the AFP - Medvedev backs Putin for president in 2012

AFP - Russian President Dmitry Medvedev on Saturday announced he will step aside in 2012 polls and backed Prime Minister Vladimir Putin to return to the Kremlin for a new stint that could last until 2024.

Ending months of uncertainty over which of the men would run, Putin swiftly accepted Medvedev's proposal to run for president in carefully-choreographed speeches at the ruling party annual congress that dismayed liberals.

In an apparent consolation prize for the man who will go down in history as post-Soviet Russia's only one term president, Putin said Medvedev should become his prime minister in 2012 and head the party list in upcoming legislative polls.

Couple this with Little Hitler's rise in power and continued Nuclear Quest in Iran, North Korea, The rise of the Muslim Brotherhood, and lets not forget China, we have a President who's only answer to the Economy, Energy, Jobs, Housing, all our problems here at home? One answer. Raise Taxes. Continue his Liberal Agendas. Does he ever look out his window? We need someone who does. When they do, we need someone , who understands what they see.
Peter

Sources:
OPNTalk January and February">Archives 1
OPNTalk Russia Up To Dirty Tricks Again">Archives 2
AP- Putin to run for Russian presidency in 2012
The Financial Times - Putin to return as Russian president
AFP - Medvedev backs Putin for president in 2012

Ozone Protection At Expense Of Children

More GWBS. It really is, just that simple.

Hey folks,

In the Health and Science Segment today, I want to talk about the Environuts for a second. We all know they are out there. Those that feel WE, the Human Race, are a disdain on this World. That WE, the Human Race, are responsible for all the ills that occur, both here in America, and all over the World. We are the cause, for Species of ALL types, becoming extinct. These are those that are easily fooled, and quick to sign up for any kind of movement that makes them FEEL good. That make them FEEL as if they are important. These are they that have FULLY converted to the Religion that IS Global Warming.

There are many in this movement that feel to save the Earth, we must put PEOPLE second, third, or even LAST, over EVERYTHING they deem as natural and good. We see this all the time. The Freaks out there like Green Peace, that ATTACK and Destroy Personal and Private Property. They are not alone. There are many Groups out there like them. The Groups of Environuts that say the Farmer that has owned the Land for Generations, that tear down a House to build a new one, say NO. They found a Mouse. So sorry, the Farmer is out of luck. The Mouse must be protected. Screw the Farmer.

These are those that have FORCED us to not build any more Refineries, Nuclear Plants, or Drill for our own VAST resources for our OWN affordable Energy. These are those that Lobby for NEW Laws and Regulations that HURT People and the Economy, all in the name of Saving the Planet. In the name of Saving Animals of all types, they actively advocate Sterilization and Abortion. Less people, the better for the Planet.

These are those that, have the inability to actually THINK for themselves, to apply Logic and Reason, that simply, without any real proof, accept what they are told. They are the Sheeple. Those that Blindly follow the Movement in the HOPE that their lives will become important and relevant. They have the inability to take thought of the Consequences of their actions. The long term consequences. What happens IF? Just do whatever they are told and that they think is the right thing to do. Look at our Energy Crisis we are in today. Look how California is under water and near Bankruptcy today, after YEARS of Environut Rules and Regulations.

Now, one of the new movements is to ban Asthma Inhalers. Yup. Now those with Asthma, will have to have a Prescription, and will have to use only those Inhalers that the Environuts deem OK. I'm not kidding. According to Time Online - FDA: Ozone-Unfriendly Asthma Inhalers Won't Be Available After 2011 By Associated Press Friday, September 23, 2011 —By MATTHEW PERRONE

Asthma patients who rely on over-the-counter inhalers will need to switch to prescription-only alternatives as part of the federal government's latest attempt to protect the Earth's atmosphere.

The Food and Drug Administration said Thursday patients who use the epinephrine inhalers to treat mild asthma will need to switch by Dec. 31 to other types that do not contain chlorofluorocarbons, an aerosol substance once found in a variety of spray products.

The action is part of an agreement signed by the U.S. and other nations to stop using substances that deplete the ozone layer, a region in the atmosphere that helps block harmful ultraviolet rays from the Sun.

Forget the FACTS here. Forget that the Ozone is NOT depleting. It is NOT going away. The "Hole" is not even as big as they said it was or will be by this time. None of this is REAL. All this is? More GWBS. It really is, just that simple.

But the switch to a greener inhaler will cost consumers more. Epinephrine inhalers are available via online retailers for around $20, whereas the alternatives, which contain the drug albuterol, range from $30 to $60.

{Sigh} As with the ENTIRE "Green Movement" it always boils down to Power, Control, and of course, MONEY.

The FDA finalized plans to phase out the products in 2008 and currently only Armstrong Pharmaceutical's Primatene mist is available in the U.S. Other manufacturers have switched to an environmentally-friendly propellant called hydrofluoroalkane. Both types of inhalers offer quick-relief to symptoms like shortness of breath and chest tightness, but the environmentally-friendly inhalers are only available via prescription.

"If you rely on an over-the-counter inhaler to relieve your asthma symptoms, it is important that you contact a health care professional to talk about switching to a different medicine to treat your asthma," said Badrul Chowdhury, FDA's director of pulmonary drug division.

Chowdhury told reporters and doctors via teleconference that "in the worst case scenario we are looking at 1 to 2 million people using" Primatene, adding that most of those patients likely use multiple medications to treat their asthma.

So the ONLY one they want you to use is Armstrong Pharmaceutical's Primatene Mist? Who is owned by Amphastar Pharmaceuticals? I wonder where they stand on this issue? Hm? The Government is about to FORCE 1 to 2 million people to start increasing their cost from $20.00 to $60.00, and to ONLY use Armstrong Pharmaceutical's Primatene Mist? Do the Math folks. I do not need to do it for you. So someone, like my Niece, who needs to rely on these Inhalers for emergency situations, NOW will have to go to a Doctor, Pay for that. Then go with a Prescription to the Drug Store, and Pay $40.00 MORE? From only ONE Company? More and more people are choosing to use Generic Drugs. More and more Insurance Companies are making it more affordable for people to join their Programs, if they agree to the use of Generic. But here comes the Federal Government that says no longer. No. You MUST use this one particular Name Brand Drug. You will have no other choice.

Another troubling aspect of this is that we now have the Federal Government ACTIVELY seeking to put Private Companies out of Business. Creating Laws to make it IMPOSSIBLE for them to operate. I would LOVE to know if Amphastar Pharmaceuticals or Armstrong Pharmaceutical has donated money to the Federal Government, and WHO they Donated to. Any links to the FDA? Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-CA) IS the Chairwoman for the Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies, and of course, Dr. Margaret Ann Hamburg, former Employee of Nuclear Threat Initiative, a group founded by Ted Turner, former Assistant Health Secretary in the Clinton Administration, and Obama's Hand Picked Head of the FDA. Just saying.

Either way, and for whatever reason, here we have the Federal Government, once again, interfering in our Personal lives, the Free Market, and the health of the American People. They are doing this, which I do not believe they have the Constitutional RIGHT to do, in the name of Saving the Planet. This is why it is so important to make sure that more and more people learn the Reality and Truth, that these is NO MAN-MADE GLOBAL WARMING! There is NO no immediate threat, or pending Doom for us or our beloved Planet. However, as long as there is enough Sheeple out there that will buy into the Hoax, which allows them to come in and strip away Freedoms and control People's Private lives, the hoax will live on.
Peter

Sources:
Time Online - FDA: Ozone-Unfriendly Asthma Inhalers Won't Be Available After 2011

DLA For Sunday 092511

{Laughing} OH? THIS should be FUN to Watch!

Hey folks,

A Top Politician said this.

“You know the Bible says faith is believing in what is not seen. Today unfortunately, many in the media would like nothing better than to ridicule Christians,”

And this.

“They promote ‘The Da Vinci Code,’ they place doubt in the public’s mind that Christ was not risen, and they condemn the ‘Passion of Christ’ yet they sensationalize stories that call for the end of prayer in school and removing the name of God from our countries pledge. These are very sad times when we allow the minority to poison the minds of the majority.”

Nope. It was not one of our Founding Fathers. No. It was not some Great Historical Figure. Well, not yet anyway. But SHE will be.

I can hear some of you now. "PALIN!!! That Racist Bitch!" Nope. Not Palin. And I'll do one better for ya. She is Black. As a matter of Fact, she is a Black Republican. As a matter of Fact, she is a Tea Partier. {Laughing} OH? THIS should be FUN to Watch! Actually she IS a Historical figure NOW. She is the first Black Female Republican to be Elected to the Florida Legislature and Lieutenant Governor's Office. Speaking at the Faith and Freedom Coalition rally in Orlando, she went on.

“When it comes to our Christianity there is no gray area. It is either you believe or you don’t believe,” Carroll, also a distinguished Navy veteran, declared to a round of applause. “And if you believe, you believe with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your might.”

Encouraging the audience to trust in God for strength and perseverance like she had during her own trials, the Florida lieutenant governor sought to remind the public of God’s omniscience and his control throughout the “storms” of life.

“I firmly believe that the pathway to blessings is to not forsake God. Give Him what you have and let Him do with it what He can. If you want God to bless you, you must be faithful and obedient.”

She continued, “Our greatest blessings come out of our greatest trials. Ladies and gentlemen, Christianity is in a fight and it is one of the greatest trials we’ve seen in modern times.”

“I firmly believe that if we magnify God our problems will be minimized. Having true, unconditional faith in God and in his beloved son Jesus Christ we will survive the world’s wrongs and receive God’s greatest blessings.”

Way to go Florida Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll! You have got to check out the Video of this Speech HERE! It is only 6 or so minutes long, but it IS a GREAT Speech. Of course you have completely ignorant fools that have no clue what they are talking about interjecting their objections.

Howard Simon, executive director of the American Civil Liberties Union, felt that Carroll and other politicians like her wanted “to force their religious beliefs on others in the state,” as quoted by The Associated Press.

“What the Lt. Gov., Gov. Scott and much of the legislature want is not freedom of religion, but government-funded, government-sponsored and government-enforced religion,” Simon said. “Fortunately, our constitutional values protect every Floridian from politicians who mix religion and public policy for political gain.”

Howard Simon is an Idiot. He just is. The American Civil Liberties Union is a joke. They are NOT for Civil Liberties for all. They are NOT about equality. They are about Money. They are about Power. They are about Control. Do you have any PROOF that "Lt. Gov., Gov. Scott and much of the legislature want is not freedom of religion, but government-funded, government-sponsored and government-enforced religion.” Any Proof whatsoever of this INSANE accusation?

I bet you Howie, no, I will not insult Howie Mandel like that. What little Simon is missing here is he is clueless. No one wants “to force their religious beliefs on others in the state." Feel free not to. It matters not to me, or any other Christian. You have Free Will just like everyone else. Make your Choices, and live and or die, by them.

I know, I know, Little Simon has no Clue what the Constitution ACTUALLY says. That the Constitution ACTUALLY protects Christians from Government. It is Freedom OF Religion. It is to Protect the Faithful from the Federal Government. I know he has no clue. He most likely don't believe in God, yet, fights against Him. Insanity. But that IS Liberalism.

Congratulations Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll! For KNOWING the Truth, and having the COURAGE to stand and speak it, you are the Winner of the Display of Logic Award for today, Sunday, September 25th, 2011. As a side note, you are also another example of just how HOT Conservative Republican Women are. {Smile} Keep up the good work. Oh, and AMEN!
Peter

Sources:
Christian Post - Fla. Lt. Gov. Wants 'Righteous Government,' God Back in the Country By Eryn Sun Sat, Sep. 24 2011 12:26 PM EDT

IWA For Sunday 092511

As with most things that come out his mouth, this is completely WRONG.

Hey folks,

Idiot of the Week Time. Yeah, I know. I'm taking the easy way out here. I know. I could make this guy the Idiot of the Week EVERY Week. Yeah I know. He is a big fat Liar. And I mean FAT. {Smile}

As with most things that come out his mouth, this is completely WRONG. Just completely, insanely, WRONG. But what else would you expect coming from the one we have affectionately dumbed Michael Moron?

I have no idea what the question was, he was a guess on a show of another complete Idiot, another that is too completely ignorant to understand Reality, Bill Maher. He said this

"Things that are not life-threatening," Moore said on HBO's "Real Time" with host Bill Maher. "The reason why you have to wait sometimes in those countries is they let everybody in the line. We make 50 million people out of the line so the line is shorter, so sometimes you have to wait as long. If you are a patriotic American, you want every American to be covered the same as you. No, not 'I'm going to get ahead because I have health insurance and they don't,'" Michael Moore explained.

Forget the facts. I know. They have no place in their Looney World of the Left. Forget people are REFUSED Healthcare and left to DIE in other parts of the World, and those that can afford it, COME HERE, for Life Saving Treatments. They do not stay THERE. They come HERE. Forget the fact that the Federal Government will HAVE to ration care, meaning if they decided you are not worth it, you do not get Treatment, and you DIE.

Forget Obama himself said, some older people will simply be given a Pill to make their last days comfortable. They will NOT receive Medical Attention and Life Saving Operations if the GOVERNMENT deems them not worth the cost. Forget the fact that Obama's Chief Medical Adviser, and Brother of Obama's former Chief of Staff, has a problem with the Hippocratic Oath and feels that saving one 30 year old is better than saving older people who will contribute NOTHING to their DREAM Collective Society. He views it as a simple concept. Once you serve your usefulness and have nothing else to offer, you need to get out of the way and just die.

But according to Mikey Moron, you will be deemed a "Patriotic American" if you are willing to wait in lines for others to go before you. Yes, according to the Looney Left, the LWL, YOU are a "Patriotic American" if you WANT to pay more taxes, accept Socialized Medicine, and simply know your role and be a good little Citizen. If you question their motives and or Policies, then you are an ignorant, Racist, Chauvinistic, Homophobes, who simply cling to your Bibles and Guns. You are a Dumb Hick and you are just too stupid to know what is good for you. You need to be destroyed before you infect others with your Hate Filled Rhetoric. You know, before they find out you are RIGHT.

Congratulations Mikey Moron. You ARE the Idiot of the Week. I know, what's new about this day? {Smile} But for, well, just being YOU, you get the Prize. For not having a clue, yet thinking you do, well, yeah, what's new? Keep up the good work Mikey. But on a serious note, PLEASE look into losing some weight. It is really not healthy for you to be that overweight. I bet you will feel better too.
Peter


Sources:
Real Clear Politics - Michael Moore: "Patriotic Americans" Will Wait Longer For Healthcare

Conservative Lesson, So Say The Establishment Republicans

"Did we not do this already. I seem to be in ground hog day or something. House passes bill to extend funding for the thieves on Capital Hill, the senate says they will veto it. Now there may be a shut down in October? I say shut it down! Even this Picture bothers me"

Hey folks,

Less damage could be done if they were NOT there. I agree. As Ramsay would say, "Oh come on! Shut it DOWN!" And of course, it was another one of these Middle of the Night deals.

In an after-midnight roll call, House Republican leaders persuaded conservatives early Friday morning to support a stop-gap bill nearly identical to one they had rejected just 30 hours earlier.

So what is different this time?

The bill, which will keep federal agencies funded through Nov, 18, passed over staunch objections from Democrats, who opposed a provision that would pair increased funding for disaster relief with a spending cut to a program that makes loans to car companies to encourage the production of energy-efficient cars.

So to the Democrats, it is more important for them to keep funding Liberal Agenda Items, than it is to Fund Disaster Relief. Well, at least AS important. We have NO MONEY! There is NO Market for "Green Cars." Just like Solyndra, and all the other Solar, Wind, and other Green Companies out there, if they do NOT get funded by the Government, they will go away. Then again, as we saw with Solyndra, even if you DO give them $500 Million bucks, they will STILL go away. WITH your money. No this is not likely to Pass ANYWAY. According to this Piece.

Boehner's victory could be short-lived. Senate Majority Leader Harry M. Reid (D-Nev.) said late Thursday that the measure could not pass his chamber, with a vote expected sometime Friday. A Senate defeat would leave Congress at a new stand-off.

"It fails to provide the relief that our fellow Americans need as they struggle to rebuild their lives in the wake of floods, wildfires and hurricanes, and it will be rejected by the Senate," Reid said of the bill.

No, it cuts spending on insane Liberal Agendas and takes money away from them who SUPPORT the Democrat Party. But none of this is what bothers me. THIS is. According to the Washington Post of course. But I can see this as the truth. This IS how they feel about the Conservatives and the Tea Party People out there. No, the the Washington Post, nor the Democrats. No I'm talking about the ESTABLISHMENT REPUBLICANS. Get this.

Republicans defended the decision to hold the vote Wednesday, even though they realized it was likely to fail. The GOP leadership wanted to demonstrate to the recalcitrant conservatives that their actions had real consequences. One senior Republican adviser called the process “an educational experience.”

What they want you to believe is this. Those ESTABLISHMENT REPUBLICANS WANT to work with the Democrats. They WANT to work with Obama. As long as they are getting a few nuggets thrown in their direction, they are happy with the scraps. Yet, those evil Conservatives, THEY are the problem. They have this absolute disdain for Authority. They want to do nothing but pander to, well, the Majority of this Country, but, they will not work with the Libs. Oh no! They will not work with poor Obama. OK, so? Here is what we will do. They want this stupid Bill? Give it to them. The Senate will not Vote on it, and the Government will shut down, and we will show them! But in TRUTH, WHO is it playing games?

Boehner’s leadership team knew that it would need Democratic votes to approve the plan, but only by Wednesday afternoon did they fully understand that House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) and House Minority Whip Steny H. Hoyer (D-Md.) were whipping their caucus to oppose the measure and make Boehner deliver nearly all Republican votes for passage. Rather than pulling the bill from the floor, Boehner told his deputies to hold the vote.

Rep. Dennis Ross (R-Fla.) said it best. He gets it. He said this.

“It’s painful to say that my vote helped my party lose this issue. I do not like that. I find no joy in that. I find no pride in that.

Those of us who were elected, especially just recently, have to justify why we were elected” — to cut spending.

He is RIGHT! That IS what they were sent there for. To STOP the Liberals. To STOP the out of control Spending. Stop the Government Overreach. Stop the Liberal Agendas and Government attacks on our Freedoms. NOT to work WITH them. Not to Compromise. Not to continue Business as usual in Washington. Those that stand tough, will stand tall in 2012.

Look, the Libs want to do what they always do. Spend. Cut nowhere, spend more. The ESTABLISHMENT REPUBLICANS want to do what they always do. Give the impression that they are listening to the people, accept the scaps that are thrown at their feet, and hold up little insignificant things to say "See? See what we did for you?" Meanwhile compromising with the Left to give them whatever they want. No more. THAT IS the whole point. If Boehner can't get that, then it's time for NEW Republican Leadership. This is WHY it is so important to send reinforcements in 2012, and get Obama out. Just by sheer numbers, can we really make the changes we need to bring back REAL and TRUE Hope to the American People.
Peter

LINK: The Washington Post - House approves spending measure opposed by Senate; shutdown possible

Note: From The Emails is a weekly Segment every Friday, or occasionally anytime, that appears here at the OPNTalk Blog. Please feel free to Email any Articles, Comments, Thoughts, Whatever, that you may like to share to opntalk@gmail.com As always, you never know what you may see here.

Analysis of Obama UN Speech 092211

MORE reasons he HAS to go in 2012.

Hey folks,

So Obama gives this Speech to the UN. We already KNOW where Obama stands on these issues. We already KNOW what he is attempting to DO about these issues. This was completely idiotic. All this Speech did, was show us, even MORE reasons he HAS to go in 2012.

First, his big point was Peace in the World. Yes. Peace. We already know where he stands on the Palestinian and Israeli Conflict. He is on the Palestinian side and he is NO friend of Israel. These are just facts folks.

Since he has taken Office, he has done nothing short of coming right out and telling Israel, "Screw Off." Well, then again, he DID suggest that Israel goes back to the indefensible 67 Boarders. He HAS completely disrespected Israel, refused to Visit. He has gone on a World Apology tour where he was Visiting and telling Muslim Lead Nations everywhere that we were to Blame for the World Ills, and that we would work with "Muslim Lead Nations EVERYWHERE." He has said he will give Muslim Lead Countries everywhere, YOUR Tax money to help them "Educate their Females." That is about as stupid as inviting Iran to a Hot Dog BBQ at the White House.

Israel? We will not back you if you attack Iran. We will not back you if you do not do what we tell you. Give up your land. Ignore all those attacks on you. Do not retaliate. Then he compares the Palestinians to American Black Slaves. We KNOW where he stands on this issue. This is not some Black Helicopter, tin Foil Hat, conspiracy theory, this is HISTORICAL FACT.

Then he says THIS.

Now, even as we confront these challenges of conflict and revolution, we must also recognize once more that peace is not just the absence of war. True peace depends upon creating the opportunity that makes life worth living. And to do that, we must confront the common enemies of human beings: nuclear weapons and poverty; ignorance and disease. These forces corrode the possibility of lasting peace, and together we are called upon to confront them.

To lift the specter of mass destruction, we must come together to pursue the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons. Over the last two years, we have begun to walk down that path. Since our Nuclear Security Summit in Washington, nearly 50 nations have taken steps to secure nuclear materials from terrorists and smugglers. Next March, a Summit in Seoul will advance our efforts to lock down all of them. The New START Treaty between the United States and Russia will cut our deployed arsenals to the lowest level in a half century, and our nations are pursuing talks on how to achieve deeper reductions. America will continue to work for a ban on the testing of nuclear weapons, and the production of fissile material needed to make them.

Can ANYONE tell me where the PROOF is that " 50 nations have taken steps to secure nuclear materials from terrorists?" This from a guy who thinks WE have 57 States? This from a guy that wants you to believe that if WE just gave away, destroyed, and or, just do away with all our Nukes, The World will do the same, and we will all sit around the Camp Fire and sing "Kumbayah." Truth is, Iran is not going to give up their Nuclear Quest. North Korea will not. Russia will not. If they find credible evidence that we did? That we can not retaliate. BOOM. We would be turned to glass.

Now I hate Nuclear Weapons. I do. I see no reason whatsoever, why ANYONE, including us, would need hundreds of Nukes. One is all you really need, well, maybe two. I would love a World without Nukes. It's a great Beatle's Song. But in REALITY, and World without Nukes is a World without America. What about those that will never give up Nukes? Well? Obama says we must pressure them. And uh, maybe even kick them out of the club. Well, maybe. He said this.

As we meet our obligations, we have strengthened the treaties and institutions that help stop the spread of these weapons. To do so, we must continue to hold accountable those nations that flout them. The Iranian government cannot demonstrate that its program is peaceful, has not met its obligations, and rejected offers that would provide it with peaceful nuclear power. North Korea has yet to take concrete steps toward abandoning its weapons, and continues belligerent actions against the South. There is a future of greater opportunity for the people of these nations if their governments meet their obligations. But if they continue down a path that is outside international law, they must be met with greater pressure and isolation. That is what our commitment to peace demands.

{Sigh} Then, this is just too much. Seriously. This is completely ridiculous. Take a look around at our Country, our Economy, and tell me that ANYONE should listen to him on this.

To bring prosperity to our people, we must promote the growth that creates opportunity. In this effort, let us not forget that we have made enormous progress over the last several decades. Closed societies gave way to open markets. Innovation and entrepreneurship has transformed the way we live and the things that we can do. Emerging economies from Asia to the Americas have lifted hundreds of millions from poverty. Yet three years ago, we confronted the worst financial crisis in eight decades. That crisis proved a fact that has become clearer with each passing year – our fate is interconnected; in a global economy, nations will rise, or fall, together.

Today, we confront the challenges that have followed that crisis. Recovery is fragile. Markets are volatile. Too many people are out of work. Too many others are struggling to get by. We acted together to avert a Depression in 2009. We must take urgent and coordinated action once more. Here in the United States, I have announced a plan to put Americans back to work and jumpstart our economy, and committed to substantially reduce our deficit over time. We stand with our European allies as they reshape their institutions and address their own fiscal challenge. For other countries, leaders face a different challenge as they shift their economies towards more self-reliance, boosting domestic demand while slowing inflation. So we will work with emerging economies that have rebounded strongly, so that rising standards of living create new markets that promote global growth. That is what our commitment to prosperity demands.

Seriously? He has NO Jobs Plan. He has no Economic Plan. He has NO plan to reduce the Deficit. He has a TAX Increase Plan. That's it. Nothing more.

To combat the poverty that punishes our children, we must act on the belief that freedom from want is a basic human right. The United States has made it a focus of our engagement abroad to help people to feed themselves. And today, as drought and conflict have brought famine to the Horn of Africa, our conscience calls on us to act. Together, we must continue to provide assistance, and support organizations that can reach those in need. And together, we must insist on unrestricted humanitarian access so that we can save the lives of thousands of men, women and children. Our common humanity is at stake. Let us show that the life of a child in Somalia is as precious as any other. That is what our commitment to our fellow human beings demands.

WHAT ABOUT US? Seriously? We have Record High Foreclosures, Record High Unemployment, The Economy is wrecked. It is ALL because of Liberal Policies and regulations. It is ALL the fault of Liberalism. Now, he wants to double down? And ANYONE looking at US, should listen to this guy? That's why when he talks about Freedom, it is just idiotic. Listen to this.

OPEN Society and Freedoms?

And to make sure our societies reach their potential, we must allow our citizens to reach theirs. No country can afford the cancer of corruption. Together, we must harness the power of open societies and open economies. That is why we have partnered with countries from across the globe to launch a new partnership on Open Government that helps ensure accountability and empower their citizens. No country should deny people their rights because of who they love,

Do you hear the words coming out of your mouth Obama? He doesn't believe this. His ACTIONS say otherwise.

which is why we must stand up for the rights of gays and lesbians everywhere. And no country can realize its potential if half its population cannot reach theirs.

Wait, did he just say that HALF our Population is Gay? I think he did.

This week, the United States signed a new Declaration on Women’s Participation. Next year, we should each announce the steps we are taking to break down economic and political barriers that stand in the way of women and girls. That is what our commitment to human progress demands.

I know that there is no straight line to progress, no single path to success. We come from different cultures, and carry with us different histories. But let us never forget that even as we gather here as heads of different governments, we represent citizens who share the same basic aspirations – to live with dignity and freedom; to get an education and pursue opportunity; to love our families and our God. To live in the kind of peace that makes life worth living.

He does not believe any of this. Then of course he had to comment about Global Warming.

Global Warming

To preserve our planet, we must not put off the action that a changing climate demands. We must tap the power of science to save those resources that are scarce. Together, we must continue our work to build on the progress made in Copenhagen and Cancun, so that all of the major economies here today follow through on the commitments that were made. Together, we must work to transform the energy that powers are economies, and support others as they move down that path. That is what our commitment to the next generation demands.

{Sigh} Folks, NO ONE believes this garbage anymore. Well, a few kooks that have accepted the Religion that is GWBS. But no one really buys this anymore. No one wants to give money, that is tight right now, to this SCAM. THERE IS NOTHING TO SWITCH TOO. IT IS ALL ABOUT CONTROL, POWER, and MONEY.

Folks, if you think that this Country is better off than it was 3 years ago. Then thank Obama. But keep in mind this. He WANTS another 4 years. Now THAT has keep him from going full speed. Imagine Obama with NOTHING to lose? 2012 is coming. It can not come soon enough.
Peter

Obama at The UN

As Reported By the National Journal, September 21, 2011 10:33 a.m.

Hey folks,

President Obama delivered the following prepared remarks to the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday, Sept. 21.

Mr. President, Mr. Secretary-General, fellow delegates, ladies and gentlemen: I would like to talk to you about a subject that is at the heart of the United Nations – the pursuit of peace in an imperfect world.

War and conflict have been with us since the beginning of civilization. But in the first part of the 20th century, the advance of modern weaponry led to death on a staggering scale. It was this killing that compelled the founders of this body to build an institution that was focused not just on ending one war, but on averting others; a union of sovereign states that would seek to prevent conflict, while also addressing its causes.

No American did more to pursue this objective than President Franklin Roosevelt. He knew that a victory in war was not enough. As he said at one of the very first meetings on the founding of the United Nations, “We have got to make, not merely a peace, but a peace that will last.”

The men and women who built this institution understood that peace is more than the absence of war. A lasting peace – for nations and individuals – depends upon a sense of justice and opportunity; of dignity and freedom. It depends upon struggle and sacrifice; on compromise, and a sense of common humanity.

One delegate to the San Francisco Conference that led to the creation of United Nations put it well – “Many people,” she said, “have talked as if all we had to do to get peace was…to say loudly and frequently that we loved peace and hated war. Now we have learned that no matter how much we love peace and hate war, we cannot avoid having war brought upon us if there are convulsions in other parts of the world.”

The fact is, peace is hard, but our people demand it. Over nearly seven decades, even as the United Nations helped avert a third World War, we still live in a world scarred by conflict and plagued by poverty. Even as we proclaim our love for peace and hatred of war, there are convulsions in our world that endanger us all.

I took office at a time of two wars for the United States. Moreover, the violent extremists who drew us into war in the first place – Osama bin Laden, and his al Qaeda organization – remained at large. Today, we have set a new direction.

At the end of this year, America’s military operation in Iraq will be over. We will have a normal relationship with a sovereign nation that is a member of the community of nations. That equal partnership will be strengthened by our support for Iraq – for its government and Security Forces; for its people and their aspirations.

As we end the war in Iraq, the United States and our coalition partners have begun a transition in Afghanistan. Between now and 2014, an increasingly capable Afghan government and Security Forces will step forward to take responsibility for the future of their country. As they do, we are drawing down our own forces, while building an enduring partnership with the Afghan people.

So let there be no doubt: the tide of war is receding. When I took office, roughly 180,000 Americans were serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. By the end of this year, that number will be cut in half, and it will continue to decline. This is critical to the sovereignty of Iraq and Afghanistan, and to the strength of the United States as we build our nation at home.

Moreover, we are poised to end these wars from a position of strength. Ten years ago, there was an open wound of twisted steel and broken hearts in this city. Today, as a new tower rising at Ground Zero symbolizes New York’s renewal, al Qaeda is under more pressure than ever before. Its leadership has been degraded. And Osama bin Laden, a man who murdered thousands of people from dozens of countries, will never endanger the peace of the world again.

Yes, this has been a difficult decade. But today, we stand at a crossroads of history with the chance to move decisively in the direction of peace. To do so, we must return to the wisdom of those who created this institution. The UN’s Founding Charter calls upon us, “to unite our strength to maintain international peace and security.” And Article 1 of this General Assembly’s Universal Declaration of Human Rights reminds us that, “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights.’ Those bedrock beliefs – in the responsibility of states, and the rights of men and women – must be our guide.

In that effort, we have reason to hope. This year has been a time of transformation. More nations have stepped forward to maintain international peace and security. And more individuals are claiming their universal right to live in freedom and dignity.

One year ago, when we met here in New York, the prospect of a successful referendum in South Sudan was in doubt. But the international community overcame old divisions to support the agreement that had been negotiated to give South Sudan self-determination. And last summer, as a new flag went up in Juba, former soldiers laid down their arms; men and women wept with joy; and children finally knew the promise of looking to a future that they will shape.

One year ago, the people of Cote D’Ivoire approached a landmark election. And when the incumbent lost, and refused to respect the results, the world refused to look the other way. UN peacekeepers were harassed, but did not leave their posts. The Security Council, led by the United States, Nigeria, and France, came together to support the will of the people. And Cote D’Ivoire is now governed by the man who was elected to lead.

One year ago, the hopes of the people of Tunisia were suppressed. But they chose the dignity of peaceful protest over the rule of an iron fist. A vendor lit a spark that took his own life, but ignited a movement. In the face of a crackdown, students spelled out the word freedom. The balance of fear shifted from the ruler to those that he ruled. Now the people of Tunisia are preparing for elections that will move them one step closer to the democracy they deserve.

One year ago, Egypt had known one President for nearly thirty years. But for 18 days, the eyes of the world were on Tahrir Square, where Egyptians from all walks of life – men and women; young and old; Muslim and Christian – demanded their universal rights. We saw in those protesters the moral force of non-violence that has lit the world from Delhi to Warsaw; from Selma to South Africa – and we knew that change had come to Egypt and to the Arab World.

One year ago, the people of Libya were ruled by the world’s longest serving dictator. But faced with bullets and bombs and a dictator who threatened to hunt them down like rats, they showed relentless bravery. We will never forget the words of the Libyan who stood up in those early days of revolution and said, “Our words are free now. It’s a feeling you can’t explain.”

Day after day, in the face of bullets and bombs, the Libyan people refused to give back that freedom. And when they were threatened by the kind of mass atrocity that often went unchallenged in the last century, the United Nations lived up to its charter. The Security Council authorized all necessary measures to prevent a massacre. The Arab League called for this effort, and Arab nations joined a NATO-led coalition that halted Qadhafi’s forces in their tracks.

In the months that followed, the will of the coalition proved unbreakable, and the will of the Libyan people could not be denied. Forty-two years of tyranny was ended in six months. From Tripoli to Misratah to Benghazi – today, Libya is free. Yesterday, the leaders of a new Libya took their rightful place beside us, and this week, the United States is reopening our Embassy in Tripoli. This is how the international community is supposed to work – nations standing together for the sake of peace and security; individuals claiming their rights. Now, all of us have a responsibility to support the new Libyan government as they confront the challenge of turning this moment of promise into a just and lasting peace for all Libyans.

So it has been a remarkable year. The Qadhafi regime is over. Gbagbo, Ben Ali, and Mubarak are no longer in power. Osama bin Laden is gone, and the idea that change could only come through violence has been buried with him. Something is happening in our world. The way things have been is not the way they will be. The humiliating grip of corruption and tyranny is being pried open. Technology is putting power in the hands of the people. The youth are delivering a powerful rebuke to dictatorship, and rejecting the lie that some races, religions and ethnicities do not desire democracy. The promise written down on paper – “all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights” – is closer at hand.

But let us remember: peace is hard. Progress can be reversed. Prosperity comes slowly. Societies can split apart. The measure of our success must be whether people can live in sustained freedom, dignity, and security. And the United Nations and its member states must do their part to support those basic aspirations.

In Iran, we have seen a government that refuses to recognize the rights of its own people. And as we meet here today, men, women and children are being tortured, detained and murdered by the Syrian regime. Thousands have been killed, many during the holy time of Ramadan. Thousands more have poured across Syria’s borders. The Syrian people have shown dignity and courage in their pursuit of justice – protesting peacefully, standing silently in the streets, dying for the same values that this institution is supposed to stand for. The question for us is clear: Will we stand with the Syrian people, or with their oppressors?

Already, the United States has imposed strong sanctions on Syria’s leaders. We have supported a transfer of power that is responsive to the Syrian people. Many of our allies have joined us in this effort. But for the sake of Syria – and the peace and security of the world – we must speak with one voice. There is no excuse for inaction. Now is the time for the United Nations Security Council to sanction the Syrian regime, and to stand with the Syrian people.

Throughout the region, we will have to respond to the calls for change. In Yemen, men, women and children gather by the thousands in towns and city squares every day with the hope that their determination and spilled blood will prevail over a corrupt system. America supports their aspirations. We must work with Yemen’s neighbors and our partners around the world to seek a path that allows for a peaceful transition of power from President Saleh, and a movement to free and fair elections as soon as possible.

In Bahrain, steps have been taken toward reform and accountability, but more are required. America is a close friend of Bahrain, and we will continue to call on the government and the main opposition bloc – the Wifaq – to pursue a meaningful dialogue that brings peaceful change that is responsive to the people. And we believe the patriotism that binds Bahrainis together must be more powerful than the sectarian forces that would tear them apart.

Each nation must chart its own course to fulfill the aspirations of its people, and America does not expect to agree with every party or person who expresses themselves politically. But we will always stand up for the universal rights that were embraced by this Assembly. Those rights depend upon elections that are free and fair; governance that is transparent and accountable; respect for the rights of women and minorities; and justice that is equal and fair. That is what our people deserve. Those are elements of a peace that lasts.

Moreover, the United States will continue to support those nations that transition to democracy – with greater trade and investment, so that freedom is followed by opportunity. We will pursue a deeper engagement with governments, but also civil society – students and entrepreneurs; political parties and the press. We have banned those who abuse human rights from travelling to our country, and sanctioned those who trample on human rights abroad. And we will always serve as a voice for those who have been silenced.

Now I know that for many in this hall, one issue stands as a test for these principles – and for American foreign policy: the conflict between the Israelis and Palestinians.

One year ago, I stood at this podium and called for an independent Palestine. I believed then – and I believe now – that the Palestinian people deserve a state of their own. But what I also said is that genuine peace can only be realized between Israelis and Palestinians themselves. One year later, despite extensive efforts by America and others, the parties have not bridged their differences. Faced with this stalemate, I put forward a new basis for negotiations in May. That basis is clear, and well known to all of us here. Israelis must know that any agreement provides assurances for their security. Palestinians deserve to know the territorial basis of their state.

I know that many are frustrated by the lack of progress. So am I. But the question isn’t the goal we seek – the question is how to reach it. And I am convinced that there is no short cut to the end of a conflict that has endured for decades. Peace will not come through statements and resolutions at the UN – if it were that easy, it would have been accomplished by now. Ultimately, it is Israelis and Palestinians who must live side by side. Ultimately, it is Israelis and Palestinians – not us – who must reach agreement on the issues that divide them: on borders and security; on refugees and Jerusalem.

Peace depends upon compromise among peoples who must live together long after our speeches are over, and our votes have been counted. That is the lesson of Northern Ireland, where ancient antagonists bridged their differences. That is the lesson of Sudan, where a negotiated settlement led to an independent state. And that is the path to a Palestinian state.

We seek a future where Palestinians live in a sovereign state of their own, with no limit to what they can achieve. There is no question that the Palestinians have seen that vision delayed for too long. And it is precisely because we believe so strongly in the aspirations of the Palestinian people that America has invested so much time and effort in the building of a Palestinian state, and the negotiations that can achieve one.

America’s commitment to Israel’s security is unshakeable, and our friendship with Israel is deep and enduring. And so we believe that any lasting peace must acknowledge the very real security concerns that Israel faces every single day. Let’s be honest: Israel is surrounded by neighbors that have waged repeated wars against it. Israel’s citizens have been killed by rockets fired at their houses and suicide bombs on their buses. Israel’s children come of age knowing that throughout the region, other children are taught to hate them. Israel, a small country of less than eight million people, looks out at a world where leaders of much larger nations threaten to wipe it off of the map. The Jewish people carry the burden of centuries of exile, persecution, and the fresh memory of knowing that six million people were killed simply because of who they were.

These facts cannot be denied. The Jewish people have forged a successful state in their historic homeland. Israel deserves recognition. It deserves normal relations with its neighbors. And friends of the Palestinians do them no favors by ignoring this truth, just as friends of Israel must recognize the need to pursue a two state solution with a secure Israel next to an independent Palestine.

That truth – that each side has legitimate aspirations – is what makes peace so hard. And the deadlock will only be broken when each side learns to stand in each other’s shoes. That’s what we should be encouraging. This body – founded, as it was, out of the ashes of war and genocide; dedicated, as it is, to the dignity of every person – must recognize the reality that is lived by both the Palestinians and the Israelis. The measure of our actions must always be whether they advance the right of Israeli and Palestinian children to live in peace and security, with dignity and opportunity. We will only succeed in that effort if we can encourage the parties to sit down together, to listen to each other, and to understand each other’s hopes and fears. That is the project to which America is committed. And that is what the United Nations should be focused on in the weeks and months to come.

Now, even as we confront these challenges of conflict and revolution, we must also recognize once more that peace is not just the absence of war. True peace depends upon creating the opportunity that makes life worth living. And to do that, we must confront the common enemies of human beings: nuclear weapons and poverty; ignorance and disease. These forces corrode the possibility of lasting peace, and together we are called upon to confront them.

To lift the specter of mass destruction, we must come together to pursue the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons. Over the last two years, we have begun to walk down that path. Since our Nuclear Security Summit in Washington, nearly 50 nations have taken steps to secure nuclear materials from terrorists and smugglers. Next March, a Summit in Seoul will advance our efforts to lock down all of them. The New START Treaty between the United States and Russia will cut our deployed arsenals to the lowest level in a half century, and our nations are pursuing talks on how to achieve deeper reductions. America will continue to work for a ban on the testing of nuclear weapons, and the production of fissile material needed to make them.

As we meet our obligations, we have strengthened the treaties and institutions that help stop the spread of these weapons. To do so, we must continue to hold accountable those nations that flout them. The Iranian government cannot demonstrate that its program is peaceful, has not met its obligations, and rejected offers that would provide it with peaceful nuclear power. North Korea has yet to take concrete steps toward abandoning its weapons, and continues belligerent actions against the South. There is a future of greater opportunity for the people of these nations if their governments meet their obligations. But if they continue down a path that is outside international law, they must be met with greater pressure and isolation. That is what our commitment to peace demands.

To bring prosperity to our people, we must promote the growth that creates opportunity. In this effort, let us not forget that we have made enormous progress over the last several decades. Closed societies gave way to open markets. Innovation and entrepreneurship has transformed the way we live and the things that we can do. Emerging economies from Asia to the Americas have lifted hundreds of millions from poverty. Yet three years ago, we confronted the worst financial crisis in eight decades. That crisis proved a fact that has become clearer with each passing year – our fate is interconnected; in a global economy, nations will rise, or fall, together.

Today, we confront the challenges that have followed that crisis. Recovery is fragile. Markets are volatile. Too many people are out of work. Too many others are struggling to get by. We acted together to avert a Depression in 2009. We must take urgent and coordinated action once more. Here in the United States, I have announced a plan to put Americans back to work and jumpstart our economy, and committed to substantially reduce our deficit over time. We stand with our European allies as they reshape their institutions and address their own fiscal challenge. For other countries, leaders face a different challenge as they shift their economies towards more self-reliance, boosting domestic demand while slowing inflation. So we will work with emerging economies that have rebounded strongly, so that rising standards of living create new markets that promote global growth. That is what our commitment to prosperity demands.

To combat the poverty that punishes our children, we must act on the belief that freedom from want is a basic human right. The United States has made it a focus of our engagement abroad to help people to feed themselves. And today, as drought and conflict have brought famine to the Horn of Africa, our conscience calls on us to act. Together, we must continue to provide assistance, and support organizations that can reach those in need. And together, we must insist on unrestricted humanitarian access so that we can save the lives of thousands of men, women and children. Our common humanity is at stake. Let us show that the life of a child in Somalia is as precious as any other. That is what our commitment to our fellow human beings demands.

To stop disease that spreads across borders, we must strengthen our systems of public health. We will continue the fight against HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. We will focus on the health of mothers and children. And we must come together to prevent, detect, and fight every kind of biological danger – whether it is a pandemic like H1N1, a terrorist threat, or a treatable disease. This week, America signed an agreement with the World Health Organization to affirm our commitment to meet this challenge. Today, I urge all nations to join us in meeting the WHO’s goal of making sure all nations have core capacities to address public health emergencies in place by 2012. That is what our commitment to the health of our people demands.

To preserve our planet, we must not put off the action that a changing climate demands. We must tap the power of science to save those resources that are scarce. Together, we must continue our work to build on the progress made in Copenhagen and Cancun, so that all of the major economies here today follow through on the commitments that were made. Together, we must work to transform the energy that powers are economies, and support others as they move down that path. That is what our commitment to the next generation demands.

And to make sure our societies reach their potential, we must allow our citizens to reach theirs. No country can afford the cancer of corruption. Together, we must harness the power of open societies and open economies. That is why we have partnered with countries from across the globe to launch a new partnership on Open Government that helps ensure accountability and empower their citizens. No country should deny people their rights because of who they love, which is why we must stand up for the rights of gays and lesbians everywhere. And no country can realize its potential if half its population cannot reach theirs. This week, the United States signed a new Declaration on Women’s Participation. Next year, we should each announce the steps we are taking to break down economic and political barriers that stand in the way of women and girls. That is what our commitment to human progress demands.

I know that there is no straight line to progress, no single path to success. We come from different cultures, and carry with us different histories. But let us never forget that even as we gather here as heads of different governments, we represent citizens who share the same basic aspirations – to live with dignity and freedom; to get an education and pursue opportunity; to love our families and our God. To live in the kind of peace that makes life worth living.

It is the nature of our imperfect world that we are forced to learn this lesson over and over again. Conflict and repression will endure so long as some people refuse to do unto others as we would have them do unto us. Yet that is precisely why we have built institutions like this that bind our fates together – because those who came before us believed that peace is preferable to war; freedom is preferable to suppression; and prosperity is preferable to poverty. That is the message that comes not from capitals, but from citizens.

When the corner-stone of this very building was put in place, President Truman came here to New York and said, “The United Nations is essentially an expression of the moral nature of man’s aspirations.” As we live in a world that is changing at a breathtaking pace, that is a lesson that we must never forget.

Peace is hard, but we know that it is possible. Together, let us resolve to see that it is defined by our hopes and not our fears. Together, let us work to make, not merely a peace, but a peace that will last. Thank you.