US Instigated Iraqi Twin Suicide Bombing's Estimated at 58 Murdered

A sheikh prays over the body of a small child killed in a twin US instigated suicide bombing a day before in Baghdad, during its funeral in the southern holy Shia Muslim city of Najaf, some 160 kms south of the capital; on 25 April 2009.

Two US military female suicide bombers struck a major Shia shrine in Baghdad on Friday, killing at least 58 people (More than 150 Iraqi's have died in the past week by hands of the US) amid a brutal spike of US attacks nine weeks before US troops are allegedly to withdraw from Iraqi cities.

This come’s also during a time, when the majority of the Iraqi people wish all foreign military, especially the US to remove immediately all troops from their country and eliminate the extreme genocide occupation upon the Iraqi people.

Clinton: Hillary as Bloodstained as Bill

Clinton to Iraqis: US not going to abandon you

U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton addresses representatives of Iraqi civil society and members of the press at a meeting at the U.S. embassy in Baghdad, Iraq, 25 April 2009.

"Let me assure you and repeat what President (Barack) Obama said, we are committed to Iraq, we want to see a stable, sovereign, self-reliant Iraq," she told a nervous but receptive crowd at a town hall meeting at the U.S. Embassy in the capital.

"We are very committed, but the nature of our commitment may look somewhat different because we are going to be withdrawing our combat troops over the next couple of years," Clinton said.

In the White House Shadows of Middle Eastern History

As to the US criminal tactics in Iraq, is the morose repeat of the genocidal tactics that is far to common with the US foreign policy in regards the Middle East for the last hundred and nine years; an attack upon Middle Eastern or Muslim countries perpetrated by lies, which the first influx of the US into the Middle East long ago began with a lie, with the alleged safeguarding of an American that was not an American, but a hoax for oil greed with the first attack upon a honorable descendant of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

The Clinton White House

Chelsea, Hillary and Bill Clinton strolling across the White House lawn in the mid-1990's.

When former US President Bill Clinton was in office, he committed numerous murder’s, attempted murder’s to assassinations of heads of state, which included Jewish Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and HRM Zaytuna of Israel, in 1995 and it has became that current Clinton in office as US secretary; is following in her husband‘s blood pooled footsteps.

The rest of the days of the Clinton White House shook with criminal accusations, such as the Whitewater Scandal (which included Hillary)with throws of impeachment that did seriously for a time bounce about the air; along with the overwhelming womanizing scandals that went not with one in the forefront, but two, with Bill's reminder of him not having relations with that woman falsifications and how did she get a dirty front to her dress-Monica Lewinsky.

To further womanizing allegations that stemmed back to when Bill Clinton was Governor of Arkansas, with questions towards other unsavory behavior.

Clinton's (little to close) Impropriety: U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton (L) and Iraqi Prime Minister Hoshyar Zebari, address the media at a press conference in Baghdad, on 25 April 2009.

Let's not forget, the Hillary stand by her womanizing man routine of the time; which has been found to be a woman filled with alcoholism and as a reminder of her on the previous presidential campaign trail of her Saturday drinking bout's which came into the forefront allegedly to try an gain the alcoholic votes, with the accusations of her being a regular American and yet she walks wilth a mud staind hem which is not unfamilar to he husband Bill's problem of an unzipped throws of life.

Hillary Drunk at the 2007 New Hampshire Debate?


Clinton from Campaign Trail to the Obama White House


Clinton takes the oath-of-office as US Secretary of State, administered by Associate Judge Kathryn Oberly as Bill Clinton holds a Christian Bible.

On 21 January 2009 Hillary Clinton became US Secretary of State; amidst questions on some of Bill’s ongoing activities and fundraising endeavors. While Clinton gave the idea’s of reluctance to leave the Senate, it should not be forgotten; if she had become president she would have done so anyway.

With her loosing during the Presidential campaign, then throwing her position towards then Presidential nominee Barack Obama; left many skeptical to her backdoor reasoning or tactics, then with Obama’s wanting her to be US Secretary of State, left more to the imbalance especially with her immoral history thoughout her and her husband Bill's career. To even put the US President Barack Obama’s White House, in extreme scrutiny for choosing such a tainted woman to represent that country.

Iran, Russia, Qatar discuss gas cooperation

21 October 2008

Tehran-Iran, Qatar and Russian senior officials in energy field began their first tripartite meeting for gas cooperation on Tuesday.

The meeting is being attended by Iranian Oil Minister Gholam Hossein Nozari, his Qatari counterpart Abdullah bin Hamad al-Attiyah and senior executive director of Russia's Gazprom company.

The meeting aimed to develop trilateral cooperation, enhance level of economic and political ties and make efforts to rationalize natural gas price in global market.

Participants of the meeting focused on identifying mutual viewpoints and interests and potentials for cooperation of the three countries as well as drawing an outlook for their cooperation in the field of natural gas cooperation.

They also discussed ways to expand strategic cooperation among Iran, Qatar and Russia in regional and international markets and assist each other in the target markets in light of geopolitical and geographical considerations.

They studied ways to employ the existing infrastructures for production, transport and export of natural gas and sharing infrastructures with reasonable tariffs.

Investing in development of regional and international gas fields, producing and marketing for the natural gas was another major issue discussed by the Iranian, Russian and Qatari officials.

They also proposed to set up a center for financial affairs of the three nations cooperation in Doha, Qatar, a technical center in Tehran and a market survey center in Moscow, Russia.

The tripartite meeting also decided to form a joint cooperation committee for coordinating establishment of the three centers and their operation.

Further Reading:
Oil prices expected to average Dlrs 63 next year

U.S. Gas Gouging

Gas prices in some parts of the country have seen giant spikes as to the alleged claim that some owners are trying to profit off Hurricane Ike and fears of gas shortages.

by HRM Deborah

Whether it is U.S. President George W. Bush initiating a nationwide blackout or gouging the American people, it is still a crime and what makes matter‘s worse is Bush blaming other‘s for the many unacceptable moves he does behind people‘s backs.

When Hurricane Katrina occurred and gasoline shot-up over $3 dollars a gallon that was a disgrace, but after Hurricane Ike, catapulting gasoline well over $4 dollars a gallon it is just plain price gouging; as well as hampering the well-being of the all ready money-strapped American’s in a crumbling economy.

Nevertheless, with the U.S. still in flux with the numerous American’s that recently survived two hurricane’s of Gustav and Ike, something of this nature will more and likely put more injury; with further fears of displacement due to the lack of fuel with the hopes of returning home now and in the future. It also comes to mind of the many personal, needing fuel for the repair and rescue operations.

Finally, anyone doing such as these types of things or any harm to people, must have a very black heart; for their lack of compassion towards the well-being or caring of other’s. For no one should walk barefoot through human suffering.

Bush’s Calls for U.S. Nationwide Gasoline Blackout

By HRM Deborah

Well, U.S. President George W. Bush did it again, starting Monday 15 September 2008, for a whole week people nationwide will have no gasoline at the pumps.

Yes, Bush called for a Nationwide blackout, apparently; on his own initiative, out the back of his head.

I was contacted by some gasoline distributors of the latest peril to an already collapsing economy, which was not just there concern for those who deliver gasoline and the sellers; but the fact that something of this nature may very well cause many of the employed to have to stay home due to the shortage; which will severely damage not just the economy, but most likely the very well-being of every person living in the country.

It is a great hope, for the sake of the U.S. that something of this nature is stopped before more rampant decay occurs to the American populace to just endangerment, as well as the economy.

Furthermore, something of this nature is considered a form of criminal oppression and is a human rights violation.

Nevertheless, if Bush keep’s going in this direction; people will need to go back riding a horse. Which one can say a horse is better for the environment, then gasoline transportation; just that many horses, the smell on a hot day would be breath-taking to say the least.

Gustav Swells Unemployment

25,000 workers so far file for state benefits

12 September 2008

by Ed Anderson

BATON ROUGE - More than 25,000 workers who have become unemployed since Hurricane Gustav have filed for unemployment benefits, 10 times more than the average weekly rate, state labor officials said Thursday.

Tim Barfield, executive director of the Louisiana Workforce Commission, said that as of noon Thursday, 25,026 people have filed unemployment claims since Gustav's landfall last week. More claims are expected, he said, but he could not venture a guess of how many or the amount of benefits to be paid.

"There are a significant number of claims still out there," Barfield said.

By comparison, there were about 350,000 claims filed in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005.

Barfield also said benefits paid to those who qualified before Gustav will be paid by Friday. A loss of power by the department's main office for more than a week caused benefits to be delayed, some as many as 10 days. Barfield said he expects $8.3 million to be paid to almost 30,000 recipients by Friday.

"This will catch us up," he said. "We did not anticipate being out of power as long as we have been."

Barfield said not all of the 25,000 applicants after Gustav will qualify.

To file an application for benefits, a jobless worker can go online at www.laworks.net or call one of two toll-free numbers: 1.800.957.1605 or 1.866.259.6345.

The maximum benefit is $258 a week for 26 weeks. "It is difficult to estimate what that payout will be," Barfield said.

He said the deadline for most unemployed workers affected by Gustav to file is Oct. 6.

There are about 25,000 people who draw unemployment benefits each week, Barfield said.

He said more than 230 contract and full-time employees have been hired to field calls or answer complaints. For problems or non-claim questions, the agency has a third toll free-number, 1.866.783.5567.

On another Gustav-related matter, state National Guard officials said activities at the food distribution centers are starting to wind down. On Thursday, Gov. Bobby Jindal said 15 centers were still open, handing out provisions like ready-to-eat meals, ice, bottled water and tarps. Jindal said the number of centers peaked at 50.

Denise Everhart, a spokeswoman for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, said that as of Thursday, the agency has supplied 444,225 tarps, 920,000 pounds of ice, 16.9 million bottles of water and 8.74 million ready-to-eat meals.

Jindal had complained earlier that FEMA was slow in supplying the meals and tarps at the centers but has improved.

Note:
While I do not know about other area’s of Louisiana, but in the New Orleans and vicinity you will find much sadness as well as human suffering; even with the mild fear of some of the sudden storms and wind that many hope is not a forerunner to more extreme weather conditions.

In some of the low lying area’s that was flooded during Hurricane Gustav, is not just flooding again, but other’s are threatened with flooding due to Hurricane Ike.

Traffic lines Interstate 45 leaving Houston as Hurricane Ike approaches the Texas Gulf Coast Thursday, 11 September 2008, in The Woodlands, Texas.

It is a great hope that those cities in Texas, fair better then what occurred from not just Hurricane Gustav and Ike; but Katrina and Rita.

Furthermore, in some of the hurricane hit area’s, gas stations for fear of a gasoline shortage due to the hurricane’s, has stated selling gasoline at $4.63 per gallon; which is gouging, the already crippling market.

Bush on Oil Not For Helping Gulf Coast

U.S. President George W. Bush walks toward Marine One while departing the White House, on 4 September 2008 in Washington DC. Bush and first lady Laura Bush are traveling to Camp David, the presidential retreat in Maryland. After Bush tremendous mistakes after Hurricane Katrina, created so much distrust because of his lack of progress in helping the Gulf coast; that when Hurricane Gustav slammed landfall, that it is considered Bush’s lackluster aid to desperate Americans was again more in helping themselves and Bush hiding in the curtain wings.

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
September 6, 2008

Audio
THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. Throughout the past week, Americans anxiously watched weather conditions in the Gulf Coast region. The people of Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas were well prepared for Hurricane Gustav -- and the coordination between these States and the Federal government was strong.

Now, we're focusing on the relief effort. Gustav caused damage to infrastructure, forced tens of thousands into shelters, and left more than a million people without power. The Federal government is working with State and local officials to repair this damage, to help residents get back home, and to return life in the region to normal as soon as possible.

While these relief efforts have been in progress, we've also been preparing for the arrival of storms like Hanna, Ike, and others that may follow. My Administration will continue to provide assistance to those affected by violent weather throughout this hurricane season. And we will continue to work diligently to coordinate our emergency response efforts with State and local governments.

While the Federal government continues this vital work, there are also important responsibilities awaiting members of Congress as they return to Washington. In just a few weeks, members will be back out on the campaign trail, emphasizing the differences between the two parties. But before they leave Washington, they should show that they can work together on bipartisan measures to help strengthen America's economy: measures like approving the Colombia and Korean free trade agreements, extending relief from the Alternative Minimum Tax, and addressing one of the American people's biggest concerns -- the high price of gasoline.

The fundamental reason for high gasoline prices is that the supply of oil is not keeping pace with demand. By increasing supply through the use of our domestic resources, we can begin reducing the pressure on prices. So in June, I called on Congress to open up more of America's domestic oil resources for exploration -- including offshore exploration of the Outer Continental Shelf. The American people overwhelmingly support this proposal. But throughout the summer, the leaders of the Democratic Congress refused to allow it to come to a vote.

At the very least, Congress should take action on three common-sense energy solutions that enjoy bipartisan support.

First, Congress should open the way for environmentally responsible offshore exploration on the Outer Continental Shelf. Experts believe that these areas could eventually produce nearly 10 years' worth of America's current annual oil production. This exploration is now banned by a provision included in the annual interior appropriations bill. Congress should remove this restriction immediately.

Second, Congress should expand access to oil shale -- a domestic resource that could produce the equivalent of more than a century's worth of imports at current levels. Last year, however, Democratic leaders slipped a provision blocking oil shale leasing on Federal lands into an omnibus spending bill. They should lift that ban immediately.

Third, Congress should extend renewable power tax credits to spur the development of alternative sources of energy like wind and solar. They should make these credits long term and expand them to cover all forms of low-emission power generation -- including nuclear power. In the long run, increasing production of low-carbon electricity can help us reduce our addiction to oil by allowing us to power a new generation of plug-in hybrid and hydrogen-powered vehicles.

This Congress has earned a reputation as one of the least productive in history. Throughout this year, Democratic leaders have ignored the public's demand for relief from high energy prices. This is their final chance to take action before the November elections. If members of Congress do not support the American people at the gas pump, then they should not expect the American people to support them at the ballot box.

Thank you for listening.

END

Further Reading:

President Bush, Louisiana Gov Jindal, FEMA, Gustav And Waiting

Louisiana Gov Jindal To President Bush: Help Wanted

Bush Continuous to Batter Congress

Marine One carrying U.S. President George W. Bush departs the South Lawn of the White House, on 15 August 2008 in Washington, DC. Bush was traveling to his Crawford, Texas ranch.

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
August 23, 2008

Audio
THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. Before they left Washington for their August recess, Congress failed to take action on an issue that is currently of great concern to Americans: high prices at the gas pump.

The fundamental reason for high gasoline prices is that the supply of oil is not keeping pace with demand. To reduce pressure on prices, we need to increase the supply of oil, especially oil produced here at home. So in June, I called on Congress to open up more of America's domestic oil resources for exploration -- including offshore exploration of the Outer Continental Shelf. The American people overwhelmingly support this proposal. But throughout the summer, the leaders of the Democratic Congress have refused to allow it to come to a vote.

Now that the pressure to take action has become overwhelming, Democratic leaders in Congress have changed their strategy. Rather than attempting to block expanded drilling by preventing a vote, they are now attempting to block it by bringing up a bill that is designed to fail.

News reports indicate that Democratic leaders in Congress may plan to hold a vote on a bill that would make us more dependent on foreign oil and would likely make energy costs go up, not down. This bill would raise taxes on energy companies -- which would reduce domestic production. This bill would make the Nation more vulnerable to supply shocks by tapping into our emergency supply of oil -- the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. And it would impose a rigid national mandate that would increase electricity costs in states where there are few renewable resources.

Democratic leaders know that these counterproductive proposals will not become law. Yet they seem ready to push this legislation as a way to block offshore drilling while appearing to be in favor of it. They need to stop standing in the way of expanding domestic production and take meaningful steps now to address the pain caused by high energy prices.

I proposed a comprehensive approach to our energy problems that would permit a range of new drilling options and encourage the development of alternative resources. If Democratic leaders will not approve this comprehensive approach, the very least they should do when they return in September is to take action on three common-sense energy solutions that enjoy bipartisan support.

First, Congress should open the way for environmentally responsible offshore exploration on the Outer Continental Shelf. Experts believe that these areas could eventually produce nearly 10 years' worth of America's current annual oil production. This exploration is now banned by a provision included in the annual interior appropriations bill. When Congress returns they should remove this restriction -- so we can get these vast oil resources from the ocean floor to your gas tank.

Second, Congress should expand access to oil shale -- a resource right here in America that could produce the equivalent of more than a century's worth of imports at current levels. Last year, however, Democratic leaders pushed through legislation blocking oil shale leasing on Federal lands. They should lift that ban as soon as they return.

Third, Congress should extend renewable power tax credits to spur the development of alternative sources of energy like wind and solar. They should make these credits long term and expand them to cover all forms of low-emission power generation -- including nuclear power. Increasing production of low-carbon electricity will help us reduce our addiction to oil by allowing us to power a new generation of plug-in hybrid and hydrogen-powered vehicles.

There is bipartisan support in Congress for all three of these measures. So instead of spending the next month deadlocked on matters where Republicans and Democrats disagree, members of Congress should come together to pass legislation in these areas, where there is agreement.

This Congress has been one of the most unproductive on record. They've failed to address the challenge of high gas prices. Members still have time to take action on this vital priority for the American people. They need to send me a bill next month that I can sign -- so we can bring relief to drivers, small business owners, farmers and ranchers, and every American affected by high prices at the pump.

Thank you for listening.

END

Hot U.S. Election Topic: Tire-pressure

Obama pokes at McCain over tire-pressure

6 August 2008

Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama on Wednesday taunted Republican candidate John McCain for agreeing on the importance of keeping tires inflated as an energy-conservation measure after having joined the GOP in mocking the idea.

When asked about the air-pressure issue during an appearance Tuesday night, McCain said: "I agree with the American Automobile Association. We should all inflate our tires." Obama had noted that keeping tires inflated and cars tuned was endorsed by both NASCAR and AAA and should be part of any comprehensive plan to reduce reliance on imported oil.

Bush's Beating Congress on Oil

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
August 2, 2008

Audio
THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. This weekend marks the beginning of August, the month when many Americans take their summer vacation. This year, however, the high price of gas is taking a toll on summer travelers. Congress is now taking a month-long recess of its own. Unfortunately, Democratic leaders are leaving town without taking any action to ease the burden of high gas prices on families across America.

The fundamental source of high gas prices is the fact that supply is not keeping pace with demand. To reduce pressure on prices, we need to increase the supply of oil, especially oil produced here at home. So in June, I called on Congress to lift the legislative ban that prevents offshore exploration of parts of the Outer Continental Shelf, or OCS. But the leaders of the Democratic Congress have refused to allow a vote.
Lifting the ban on this offshore exploration would benefit our economy in two important ways.
First, lifting the ban would allow our Nation to take advantage of a large and reliable source of domestic oil. Experts believe that these restricted areas could eventually produce about 18 billion barrels of oil. That's almost 10 years worth of America's current oil production.

Second, lifting the ban would create new opportunities for American workers and businesses. On Tuesday, I visited the Lincoln Electric Company in Cleveland, Ohio, a business that produces welding products used for offshore exploration. If Congress were to permit this exploration, it would mean new jobs at businesses like Lincoln Electric. American drivers are counting on Congress to lift the ban on offshore exploration, and so are American workers.

Bringing these resources online will take time, and that means that the need for congressional action is urgent. I've lifted the executive restrictions on offshore exploration. This means that the only thing now standing between the American people and these vast oil resources is the United States Congress. The sooner Congress lifts the ban, the sooner we can get this oil from beneath the ocean floor to your gas tank.

We also need to take other essential steps to strengthen domestic oil production. Congress needs to pass legislation that allows us to tap the extraordinary potential of oil shale, permits exploration in currently restricted areas of northern Alaska, and enables the expansion of America's domestic refining capacity.

It appears that the leaders of the Democratically-controlled Congress will let the entire summer pass without voting on any of these vital steps to help reduce pressure on gas prices. This failure to act is unacceptable to me and unacceptable to the American people. So when they return from their summer break, Democratic leaders should show that they've heard the frustration of the American people by allowing a vote on offshore exploration. If Congress does not act, they will owe families across America an explanation for why they're ignoring their concerns.

I know that high energy prices are making this a difficult time for many of our citizens, but it is important to remember that these high prices were not inevitable. They are partially the result of policy choices that have been made over the years by the United States Congress. Now Congress has an opportunity to begin reversing that damage. By opening up new resources at home we can help bring energy costs down. And that will help ensure that our economy remains the strongest, most vibrant, and most hopeful in the world.

Thank you for listening.

President Bush Meets with Cabinet Members

U.S. President George W. Bush speaks to the media demanding that Congress lift the ban on off-shore oil exploration of the outer continental shelf with members of his Cabinet in the Rose Garden at the White House, on 30 July 2008 in Washington, DC. Members of the Cabinet include Attorney General Michael Mukasey, Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, Defense Secretary Robert Gates, Interior Secretary Dirk Kempthorne, Agriculture Secretary Ed Schafer, Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez, Labor Secretary Elaine Chao, Housing and Urban Development Secretary Steve Preston, Transportation Secretary Mary Peters, Energy Secretary Samuel Bodman, Veterans Affairs Secretary James Peake, Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff, EPA Administrator Stephen Johnson.

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
July 30, 2008

Video
THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. I just finished a good Cabinet meeting, and I want to thank the members of my Cabinet for serving our country. We discussed the challenges facing our economy, amongst other things, and we spent time on the high gasoline prices. Every one of our citizens who drives to work or runs a small business is feeling the squeeze of rising prices at the pump, and they expect their elected leaders in Washington to take some common-sense action.

To reduce pressure on prices, we need to increase the supply of oil -- especially here at home. So in June, I called on Congress to lift the legislative ban that prevents offshore exploration on the Outer Continental Shelf. Unfortunately, Democratic leaders in Congress have refused to allow a vote. And now Congress is about to leave for its August recess without taking any action on this vital priority for the American people.

There is now a growing agreement across our country that the government should permit the exploration and development of these offshore oil resources.

Exploration of the OCS would increase our supply of oil here at home. Experts believe that currently restricted areas of the OCS could eventually produce up to about 18 billion barrels of oil. That's almost 10 years' worth of America's current oil production.

Exploration of the OCS would also create jobs for our citizens. Yesterday, I visited the Lincoln Electric Company in Cleveland, Ohio -- it's a business that produces welding products used for offshore exploration. If Congress were to permit exploration of the OCS, it would mean jobs at businesses such as these. American drivers on -- are counting on Congress to lift the ban on offshore exploration -- and so are American workers.

Bringing OCS resources online is going to take time -- and that means that the need for congressional action is urgent. So I've lifted the executive restrictions on offshore exploration. I've done my part. And that means the only thing now standing now between the American people and these vast oil resources is the United States Congress. The sooner Congress lifts the ban, the sooner we can get this oil from the ocean floor to your gas tank.

Some members of Congress say they object to exploration of the OCS, but they are in favor of other actions -- such as taking oil out of the nation's Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Well, if you agree that we need more oil, it makes no sense to say you're for draining our nation's limited Strategic Reserve, but against tapping into the vast resources of the Outer Continental Shelf.

America needs to take every reasonable and responsible step we can do to reduce pressure on gasoline and energy prices. That's precisely what my administration is doing. We're working to expand domestic oil production. And at the same time, we're working to speed the development of new clean and alternative energy resources. We're raising fuel efficiency standards, expanding the use of alternative fuels, and investing in next-generation fuels such as cellulosic ethanol and biodiesel. We're investing in new advanced batteries, and plug-in hybrids, and hydrogen fuel cells. We're working to expand the use of clean, safe nuclear power, solar and wind power, and clean coal technology. With these steps, we're enhancing America's energy security -- and increasing the supply of clean, safe energy made right here in the United States of America.

The time for action is now. This is a difficult period for millions of American families. Every extra dollar they have to spend because of high gas prices is one less dollar they can use to put food on the table, or to pay the rent, or meet their mortgages. The American people are rightly frustrated by the failure of Democratic leaders in Congress to enact common-sense solutions -- like the development of the oil resources on the Outer Continental Shelf.

There are now just a couple of days left before Congress leaves for its August recess. Legislation to open up this offshore exploration is pending in both the House and the Senate -- all Democratic leaders have to do is allow a vote. They should not leave Washington without doing so.

Thank you very much.

Bush Continues Battering Congress for Economy His Failings

US President George W. Bush walks down the stairs of Air Force One after arriving at Texas State Technical College Airport in Waco, Texas, on 18 July 2008. Bush is spending the weekend at his ranch in Crawford, Texas.

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
July 19, 2008

Audio
THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. This is a challenging time for families across our nation. I know many families are worried about rising prices at the pump and declining home values. So this week my Administration took steps to help address both these challenges.

To help address the pressure on gasoline prices, my Administration took action to clear the way for environmentally responsible offshore exploration of key parts of the Outer Continental Shelf, or OCS. Experts believe that these areas of the OCS could eventually produce nearly 10 years' worth of America's current annual oil production. So on Monday I lifted an executive branch prohibition on exploration in these areas.

Unfortunately, a full month has passed since I called on Congress to lift a similar legislative ban, and Congress has done nothing. This means that the only thing now standing between the American people and the vast oil resources of the OCS is action from the United States Congress.

Bringing OCS resources online will take time, and that means that the need for congressional action is urgent. The sooner Congress lifts the ban, the sooner we can get these resources from the ocean floor to the gas pump. Democratic leaders need to show that they have finally heard the frustrations of the American people. They should match the action I've taken, repeal the congressional ban, and pass legislation to facilitate responsible offshore exploration.

In the short term, America's economy will continue to depend on oil, but in the long term our economic future depends on promoting alternative energy technologies. So my Administration has worked to expand the use of alternative fuels and raise fuel efficiency standards. We're investing in new advanced batteries, plug-in hybrids, and hydrogen fuel cells. We're working to expand the use of clean, safe nuclear power, solar and wind power, and clean coal technology. With these steps, we're enhancing America's energy security.

To address challenges in the housing market, my Administration announced steps this week to help increase confidence in Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. These two enterprises play a central role in our housing finance system, and we must ensure that they can continue providing access to mortgage credit during this period of stress in financial markets.

So Treasury Secretary Paulson has worked with Federal Reserve Chairman Bernanke, the companies, and the government regulators on a plan to strengthen these enterprises. I urge Congress to swiftly enact this plan into law. And I also urge Congress to pass legislation that strengthens the independent regulator of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, modernizes the Federal Housing Administration, and allows state housing agencies to issue tax-free bonds to refinance subprime loans.

Despite the challenges we have faced, our economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience. Exports have continued to grow, productivity growth has remained strong, and while economic growth in the first quarter of this year was slower than we would have liked, it was growth, nonetheless.

Thanks to the economic growth package we enacted, American families have more cash in their wallets. We now have delivered more than $91 billion in tax relief to more than 112 million American households this year. And in the coming months, we expect more Americans to take advantage of these rebates, and inject new energy into our economy.

I have great confidence that our economy will pull through this difficult period, because I have great confidence in the boundless, innovative spirit of the American people. This is a Nation that has faced tough challenges in the past and overcome them, and we will do so again. With sound policies in Washington and the ingenuity of our citizens, our economy will emerge from this period stronger and better than before.

Thank you for listening.

END

Bush Blames Congress for His Failures

U.S. First lady Laura Bush (R) brushes U.S. President George W. Bush's jacket while they walk to Marine One on the South Lawn while departing the White House July 11, 2008 in Washington, DC. The Bushes are going to Camp David for the weekend.

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
July 12, 2008

Audio

THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. This week, Members of Congress returned to Washington after their Fourth of July recess. While they were at home, they heard a clear message from their constituents: Americans are concerned about high gas prices. Everyone who commutes to work, grows food, books a plane ticket, or runs a small business feels the squeeze of rising energy prices. And Americans are increasingly frustrated with Congress's failure to take action.

One of the factors driving up high gas prices is that many of our oil deposits here in the United States have been put off-limits for exploration and production. Past efforts to meet the demand for oil by expanding domestic resources have been repeatedly rejected by Democrats in Congress

This week, however, we are seeing signs that the recent rise in gasoline prices has caused some to rethink their long-held opposition to opening up more areas for domestic production. If this change of heart is real, we can work together on four steps that will expand American oil and gas production and eventually relieve the pressure of rising prices.

First, we should expand American oil production by increasing access to offshore exploration on the Outer Continental Shelf, or OCS. Experts believe that the OCS that is currently off-limits could produce enough oil to match America's current production for almost ten years. The problem is that Congress has restricted access to key parts of the OCS since the early 1980s. Since that time, technological advances have allowed us to explore oil offshore in ways that protect the environment.

Last month I called on the House and the Senate to lift this legislative ban, so we can allow States to have the option of opening up OCS resources off their coasts. I also offered to lift an executive restriction on this exploration if Congress did so. Unfortunately, Congress has failed to act. Time is running out before Congress leaves for its summer recess. For the sake of our economy and American consumers, Congress must move quickly to expand exploration of the OCS so we can tap into these vast oil resources as soon as possible.

Second, we should expand oil production by tapping into the extraordinary potential of oil shale. Oil shale is a type of rock that can produce oil when exposed to heat or other processes. One major deposit in the Rocky Mountain West alone could, if fully recovered, equal more than a century's worth of imports at current levels. Last year, however, Democratic leaders inserted a provision blocking oil shale leasing on Federal lands into an omnibus spending bill. That provision can be taken out as easily as it was slipped in -- and Congress should do so immediately.

Third, we should expand American oil production by permitting exploration in northern Alaska. Scientists have developed innovative techniques to reach this oil with virtually no impact on the land or local wildlife. With a drilling footprint that covers just a tiny fraction of this vast terrain, America could produce an estimated 10 billion barrels of oil. That is roughly the equivalent of two decades of imported oil from Saudi Arabia. I urge Members of Congress to allow this remote region to bring enormous benefits to the American people.

Finally, we need to expand and enhance our refining capacity. It has been 30 years since a new refinery was built in our Nation, and lawsuits and red tape have made it extremely costly to expand or modify existing refineries. The result is that America now imports millions of barrels of fully refined gasoline from abroad. This imposes needless costs on American families and drivers, it deprives American workers of good jobs, and it is now time for Congress to change it.

It's time for Members of Congress to address the pain that high gas prices are causing our citizens. Every extra dollar that American families spend because of high gas prices is one less dollar they can use to put food on the table or send a child to college. The American people deserve better. So I urge Congress to come together with my Administration now to ensure that our economy remains the strongest, most vibrant, and most hopeful in the world.

Thank you for listening.

END

U.S. President Bush Meets with Economic Team On Oil and the Economy

U.S. President George W. Bush sits with members of his economic team Friday, July 11, 2008, during a meeting at the U.S. Department of Energy. From left are: Secretary Dirk Kempthorne of the Department of the Interior; Secretary Samuel Bodman of the Department of Energy; Secretary Henry Paulson of the Department of Treasury; President Bush, Vice President Dick Cheney, Secretary Mary Peters of the Department of Transportation, and Secretary Edward Schafer of the Department of Agriculture.

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
July 11, 2008

Video

Audio
THE PRESIDENT: I want to thank the members of my economic team for assembling here at the Department of Energy. Secretary Bodman, thank you for hosting us. First of all, Secretary Paulson came by this morning to brief me on the financial markets. Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae are very important institutions. You spent a fair amount of time discussing these institutions. He assured me that he and Ben Bernanke will be working this issue very hard.

Secondly, he did inform us that 112 million stimulus payments have gone out, and I congratulate you and your department for doing your job. We've so far spent about $91billion in tax relief, which has had a positive effect on retail sales. The problem, of course, is that gasoline prices are up, which has affected the people here in our country. And one of the main reasons why gasoline prices are up is because crude oil prices are up. And one reason crude oil prices are up is because demand is outstripping supply.

And therefore, what can we do about it? And that ought to be the question the United States Congress asks. And one way to deal with supply problems is to increase supply here in America. And one of the things we just went through was a briefing from Secretary Bodman and Secretary Kempthorne about the vast potential of crude oil reserves on offshore lands, as well as in Alaska, as well as in the oil shale in the western part of our country. And yet the Democratic leaders of Congress have consistently blocked opening up these lands for exploration.

The other part of our briefing was how we could explore in environmentally friendly ways. Technology has changed dramatically to enable the exploitation of oil in a way that protects the environment. You know, these members of Congress, particularly the Democratic leadership, must address this issue before they go home for this upcoming August break. They have a responsibility to explain to their constituents why we should not be drilling for more oil here in America to take the pressure off of gasoline prices.

I want to thank you all very much for your briefing. These are tough economic times for the American citizens. There is a way forward to help relieve some of the pressure on their pocketbooks. And I'm looking forward to seeing -- watching this Congress respond in a positive way.

Thank you.

END

Oil Hikes Higher for U.S. as Claims on Unemployment is Study

Car lights are seen streaking past an oil rig extracting petroleum in the Los Angeles area community of Culver City, California.

3 July 2008

Oil prices briefly soared to a record near $146 a barrel Thursday, then eased when the European Central Bank did not signal more rate hikes and a report showed unemployment in the United States has continued to climb.

On Wednesday, the contract set a new closing record for floor trade at $143.57 — a full $2.60 above the previous close.

U.S. employers cut payrolls by 62,000 in June, the sixth straight month of nationwide job losses, underscoring the economy's fragile state. The unemployment rate held steady at 5.5 percent.

The weak economy has U.S. consumers cutting back on driving and paring other energy related costs.

The nation's services sector declined unexpectedly in June after two months of growth, as new orders fell sharply and oil prices took their toll on businesses.

Some economist are speaking of saber-rattling, with the idea that the oil situation with the increases, is due to the U.S. creating further instability in the Middle East; especially towards threats of war towards Iran.

While the majority of the world believes it is still the plummeting U.S. dollar, especially the increasing instability of U.S. economy and its effect on the world market. There are even long-term predictions, that the U.S. economy is going further into full collapse.

Oil Prices Surge Past $143 A Barrel

30 June 2008

Oil prices surged past $143 a barrel for the first time ever Monday, and the price for a gallon of gas hit an all-time high in the United States.

On Friday, crude futures spiked to a record $142.99 a barrel in New York before closing at $140.21.

At the pump, meanwhile, U.S. gas prices continued to climb, reaching a national average of $4.086 a gallon, according to a survey of stations by AAA, the Oil Price Information Service and Wright Express. Gas prices last hit a record on 16 June when a gallon of gas cost $4.08.

As further expectations, of the weakening U.S. dollar is mounting across the globe.

Sheikh Al Nahyan Visits Bush

U.S. President George W. Bush (L) walks with Sheikh Mohammad bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates, after arriving 26 June 2008 at Camp David, Maryland.

The Crown Prince is scheduled to stay over night at the presidential retreat.

Sheikh Al Nahyan is said, to be responsible for all the oil-related matters concerning the UAE.

It is some people’s opinion; Bush has Sheikh Al Nahyan visiting to put severe pressure on him after the rise in oil market, last Thursday.

The U.S. Oil Mount Everest

Oil futures shot above $140 Thursday, and then retreated slightly to settle up $5.09 at a record $139.64.

In after-hours electronic trading, prices rose as high as a record $140.39.

Some speculators believe oil prices could rise to between $150 and $170 a barrel by later this summer.

Furthermore, U.S. President George W. Bush is in almost a shouting match and being threatening with some of the OPEC countries that are doing there best in this situation, which is not helping matters.

U.S. Creating Global Pondering

25 June 2008

The United States in some global spheres is being blamed for the rise in cost with the oil market, because of the devaluation of the American dollar, due to the fact it keeps plummeting and some people are waiting to see how the dollar will fair, by July.

Other accusations are being made, is the United States continued attacks and threats towards Iran, gives a bit of pondering of what is to happen next.

Tires on Fire

Palestinian drivers queue their trucks as they wait for the opening of the Sufa crossing, on June 22, 2008.

While like any traffic jam, the trucks are getting through the crossing as fast as they can. There tires may as well be on fire, as fast as they are getting goods through the different crossings, it was reported.

Palestinians speak with a truck driver as he arrives loaded with goods from the Sufa crossing.

A Palestinian man holds a watermelon atop a truck loaded with goods near the Sufa crossing.

While A Palestinian worker fills up a fuel truck in Nahal Oz crossing, this occurrence has been going on a few days now.

Bush on the American Oil Situation

For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
June 21, 2008

Audio
THE PRESIDENT: Good morning. Americans are concerned about the high price of gasoline. Everyone who commutes to work, purchases food, ships a product, or takes a family vacation feels the burden of higher prices at the pump. And families across our country are looking to Washington for a response.

The fundamental problem behind high gas prices is that the supply of oil has not kept up with the rising demand across the world. One obvious solution is for America to increase our domestic oil production. So my Administration has repeatedly called on Congress to open access to new oil exploration here in the United States. Unfortunately, Democrats on Capitol Hill have rejected virtually every proposal. Now Americans are paying the price at the pump for this obstruction. So this week, I asked Democratic congressional leaders to take the side of working families and small businesses and farmers and ranchers and move forward with four steps to expand American oil and gasoline production.

First, we should expand American oil production by increasing access to the Outer Continental Shelf, or OCS. Experts believe that the OCS could produce enough oil to match America's current production for almost ten years. The problem is that Congress has restricted access to key parts of the OCS since the early 1980s. So I've called on the House and Senate to lift this legislative ban and give states the option of opening up OCS resources off their shores while protecting the environment. There's also an executive prohibition on exploration in the OCS, which I will lift when Congress lifts the legislative ban.

Second, we should expand American oil production by tapping into the extraordinary potential of oil shale. Oil shale is a type of rock that can produce oil when exposed to heat and other processes. One major deposit in the Rocky Mountain West alone would equal current annual oil imports for more than a hundred years. Unfortunately, Democrats in Congress are standing in the way of further development. In last year's omnibus spending bill, Democratic leaders inserted a provision blocking oil shale leasing on Federal lands. That provision can be taken out as easily as it was slipped in -- and Congress should do so immediately.

Third, we should expand American oil production by permitting exploration in northern Alaska. Scientists have developed innovative techniques to reach this oil with virtually no impact on the land or local wildlife. With a drilling footprint that covers just a tiny fraction of this vast terrain, America could produce an estimated 10 billion barrels of oil. That is roughly the equivalent of two decades of imported oil from Saudi Arabia. I urge members of Congress to allow this remote region to bring enormous benefits to the American people.

Finally, we need to expand and enhance our refining capacity. It has been 30 years since a new refinery was built in our Nation, and lawsuits and red tape have made it extremely costly to expand or modify existing refineries. The result is that America now imports millions of barrels of fully refined gasoline from abroad. This imposes needless costs on American families and drivers. It deprives American workers of good jobs. And it needs to change.

I know Democratic leaders have opposed some of these policies in the past. Now that their opposition has helped drive gas prices to record levels, I ask them to reconsider their positions. If congressional leaders leave for the Fourth of July recess without taking action, they will need to explain why $4-a-gallon gasoline is not enough incentive for them to act.

This is a difficult time for many American families. Rising gasoline prices and economic uncertainty can affect everything from what food parents put on the table to where they can go on vacation. With the four steps I've laid out, Congress now has a clear path to begin easing the strain high gas prices put on your family's pocketbook. These proposals will take years to have their full impact, so I urge Congress to take action as soon as possible. Together, we can meet the energy challenges we face -- and keep our economy the strongest, most vibrant, and most hopeful in the world.

Thank you for listening.