Open Microphone: Share as you see fit; keep it clean; try not to burn the place down!
Bullet Points:
** As of 2026, it is not illegal to use existing gasoline-powered mowers in California, but the state has banned the sale of new gas-powered lawn equipment (including mowers, leaf blowers, and trimmers) manufactured after December 31, 2023. You can continue using your current gas mower until it breaks, but you must replace it with zero-emission (electric) equipment. Enter the black market.
** Is it ever okay for guys to have a mullet? (right) – Passion for fashion and a thing for bling – cowboy boots and cut-offs.
** Canada traded its gold reserves for US Treasury bonds.
** You never know where life will lead you, and you’ll never know unless you try. “Mighty oaks from little acorns grow” is a 14th-century proverb meaning great things can come from small beginnings. It is often used to inspire persistence and acknowledge that significant results take time and development.
** More from Ash and Iron: Raynald of Châtillon
** VDH discusses gerrymandering (redistricting), given the population transfer that has taken place. Sure, some Californication has taken place, but the results don’t swing that way completely.
** Norway banned deliveries of the Kongsberg Naval Strike Missile (NSM) to Malaysia, effectively canceling the supply and delivery contract signed in 2018. The scheduled deliveries of the surface-to-surface missiles for the five RMN Littoral Combat Ships (LCS). The cancellation will further delay the integration of a major surface-to-surface weapon into their LCS. Malaysia is now looking for alternatives, such as additional ATMACA or Exocet Block 3 ASHM. Norway’s decision to stop deliveries of the Kongsberg NSM to Malaysia is based on legitimate concerns about the security of its technology. That makes sense. At least one of the missiles would likely have been sent to China for copying and cloning.
** A discussion of Skyline Chili in Ohio.
** Question of the Day
** Canadian friends of mine blame President Trump for all of Canada’s woes – but last time I checked, he wasn’t the President of Canada.
** LA Mayor political ad (entertaining).
** Housekeeping: I don’t care if you (the royal ‘you’) hate Pres. Trump. I don’t care if you tell the world of your abiding hatred. Just don’t share it with me, because whereas once I might have considered you smart, now I think you’re a poltroon.
** Article on British Submarine construction. The UK manages its decline as best it can. (h/t Claudio) Plans to expand the RN’s nuclear submarine docking capacity at Faslane could involve major infrastructure being built overseas, despite the program’s strategic sensitivity. A report in The Sunday Times suggests questions remain over whether British yards still retain the expertise to construct large floating dry docks domestically as the MoD advances Program EUSTON.
The Pentagon
UFO/UAP files are being released. President Trump suggests that we make of things as we see them because seeing is believing, right? The X-Files are discussed in the novels Broken Toys and Hungry Ghosts. One reader who does not follow this blog reached out to me and asked which portions of the books are drawn from fact and which are fictional. Some of the stories are drawn from personal experiences, but sadly, those are the portions that do not specifically involve an alien invasion or aliens wearing human bodies like meat puppets.
Even the unreliable mainstream media now weighs in with the discussions in an effort to sell more products for big pharma, car insurance, and feminine hygiene products. All I want to do is sell a few books with the vague promise of answering those eternal questions of whether or not we’re alone in the universe.
Our Milky Way galaxy contains at least 100 billion stars, and there are an estimated 2 trillion galaxies in the observable universe. Astronomers have already confirmed thousands of exoplanets, many of which are Earth-sized and orbit in “habitable zones” where liquid water could exist.
Blogging may be spotty over the next few days here at VM as I have my hands full with other demands. Just remember that ‘the truth is out there.’
Reallignment
The close cooperation between the UAE, Israel, and India, endorsed by the United States, manifests the resurgence of I2U2 (India, Israel, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and the United States) as a predominant security bloc. The strategic group, which remained practically dormant for many years, now seeks to exert its influence on the global strategic milieu.
Pakistan’s security assurances are vital to Saudi Arabia’s security and the perpetuation of its regional leadership. In addition to Pakistan’s unwavering diplomatic and strategic assistance, the Kingdom has also expanded its diplomatic outreach with Turkey. Additionally, Qatar and Egypt also appear to be standing beside the Saudi leadership in the ongoing conflict.
UAE’s latest decision to quit OPEC and OPEC+, the world’s leading oil production cartels, indicates an irreconcilable rift between the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Saudi control over oil production limits and price management helped consolidate its grip over the GCC. The Emirati decision to leave OPEC demonstrates that the UAE is no longer willing to accept Saudi Arabia’s leadership role. The UAE expects a massive increase in its oil revenues through increased production. The simultaneous price diminution will directly hamper Saudi financial interests, as it benefits from limited production and higher oil prices. The UAE’s determination to challenge Saudi control is evident, and the rift widens with the UAE’s recent actions.
In the wake of the Iran War, the UAE, backed by Kuwait and Bahrain, categorically sided with Israel and renounced mediation efforts supported by the Saudi bloc. Emirati Minister Reem Ebrahim Al-Hashimi announced further strengthening of collaboration with the US and Israel against Iran and rejected the possibility of detachment from its Western allies. The transfer of the Iron Dome system and defense equipment from Israel to the UAE indicates a clear-cut strategic cooperation between the two nations. This cooperation is backed by American endorsement, as both nations align with US interests in the region.
The inclusion of India broadens the scope of this developing bilateral bond beyond regional cooperation. The calculated visit of the Indian foreign minister, Dr. Jaishankar, to the UAE points towards Indian designs to capitalize on the newfound Emirati regional autonomy while balancing the Pakistani footprint in the Middle East. India, which maintains strong strategic ties with Israel and seeks to reinsert itself into Washington’s good graces, sees regional bloc alignment as a major opportunity. It also forged a strategic defense partnership with the UAE, as a counterbalance to the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia mutual defense agreement.
The world is becoming even more complicated. Where is Europe in all of this? Nowhere. They make themselves irrelevant.
Identify the Armor
1
2
3
Parting Shot
End
Identify the Armor
1 – French Schneider CA1
2 – German Panzerkampfwagen I Ausf. F
3 – German Panzerkampfwagen II
Exactly!
Skyline Chili – That shit ain’t right! – And I am a lifelong Ohioan. Chili made with cinnamon and served on spaghetti? No thank you.
I couldn’t bear to watch much of that.
Tell me that’s an AI generated video.
Her mouth moves in ways that it seems would dislocate her jaw.
And I expect the teen boy responses to that comment.
Nothing is real anymore Ed, at least with Memorex we were making our own drive tapes and knew they were reproductions…now, not so much. AI is the latest distraction to reality…but some of it is funny and pointed.
Amen! The individual in the video needs to find a new line of humor, or it it’s AI it needs to be neutered by pulling the plug.
I thought that was “the way” and then put shredded cheddar on top with onions. I’m from the southwest, and we have a different take on things.
There is a little chocolate too believe.
The story I always heard about chopsticks is that long ago, China had forks,
knives, and spoons just like everyone else. Then some Emperor decreed the
chopsticks. I don’t have any primary source references though.
– Kle.
And yet the Brits sneer at our American manner of using the fork and knife as unrefined.
I sneer back, PaulM.
Me too, only with pinky finger extended while sneering politely, we’re not heathens after all (if we say so ourselves). For example, biscuits and gravy with 2 eggs sunny-side up requires the so-called uncouth ‘shovel’ method, whereas the Brit-style micro bite loaded onto the back of the fork with the knife is simply too slow and therefore unAmerican…we got stuff to do.🤣
I point out to my love that the top side of the fork is flat for a reason. That’s where the food gets loaded up.
.
He continues to insist toast has to be with every meal so he can stab a piece and create a backstop to load things onto the back of his fork. I think low-carb would starve this man, because he wouldn’t know how to load the backside of the fork without toast. And then he wonders how I can eat so fast. Use the tool properly, and the result is speed and efficiency! If he can be so good at using guns quickly and efficiently, why can’t he master the American fork position?
The American style of eating is far more refined.
Identify the Armor:
1. Schneider CA1
2. Panzer I Ausf. F
3. Early Panzer II
Absolutely, Surly!
We will be as good of stewards of your place as any fox in the henhouse would be.
Take care of your obligations and report in as you are able.
I figured so, FHubert.
Heh. We got this.
—
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=fitzwilly
Larry
” Canadian friends of mine blame President Trump for all of Canada’s woes – but last time I checked, he wasn’t the President of Canada.”
When I read this a mutual Canadian friend of ours, who was also a friend of Wofat and Cord H, immediately sprang to mind. I don’t know whether you receive them too, but I receive at least two anti-President Trump diatribes from him, per day. They are full of garbage and, frankly, border on the libellous. Why he has this apparent hate for Trump I have no idea. Whether he sends them as a joke, to see if he can get a rise out of his American friends, or whether he believes them I have no idea.
In all likelihood he is jealous of those who can play 2-dimensional chess and becomes unhinged watching people play multi-dimensional games
We move in the same circles, MikeW. I have other friends outside of those circles as well, who produce the same unhinged rants. Since I suggested that they neuter themselves for the sake of woke and then once healed, avail themselves of MAID, the rants are fewer.
TDS is real.
Does anyone else have a problem signing on to Fakebook today?
Facebook hates only you, Boron.
likewise
Black market; Going electric by choice is a market option. BUT, when it’s mandated AND not cost or power efficient that’s what people under Stalin, and every other communist regime have struggled or escaped to get out from under. Thus, an emerging black market. We now have a digital and optical S.S. emerging. A Trojan horse for our “security”?
–
Just read the legacy of one such family that we escaped to freedom. A historical fiction account of the Martel family that eventually settled in Bozeman MT. “The Last Green Valley” depicts life in Ukraine under Stalin back to the early 30’s. Then under the Nazi’s during the war, and back under Russia after, in East Germany and Poland. Totalitarian control. Black market being a means to survival.
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The blue haired Cali Crazies will not be calling a hot line when neighbors or yard service fire up gas powered equipment. Not quite yet, but they’ll sure be whispering and want to. Why? Because they’re being empowered by TPTB and aspire to be in the circle. The big luxurious circle at the top, and you’re not in it.
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Even though WTP in Virginia voted to re-district, some judge at the top has over ruled the move toward a just republic. Sales tax has been voted down multiple times in Oregon and yet TPTB decided a hidden sales tax laden on businesses is what the public needs. Now gov. Kotek is imposing a state sales tax increase on fuel.
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My hope; Trusting that both our Oregon businesses prosper enough that the taxes and regulations are an incidental in the larger scope of life. As I wade through the myriad of fishing rules the joy of taking grandons out or the serenity being in a buddy’s boat is not deterred.
When I lived in SoCal, my son-in-law worked for the local PD and parked his car in front of my house when he came in for Code 7 or when writing reports. It deterred the Muslims who bought into the neighborhood after they built a mosque down the street. That and I carried a .45 Colt and a tomahawk when I went for walks. I was the neighbor they dared not complain about.
“The Devil Wears Prawna”… new movie showcasing Suthun’ versatile fashion-forward attire that can be worn to the fishin’ shack, duck blind, mudfests, gator roundups, county fairs, fer-wheelin’, BBQ’s, your cousins wedding to your other cousin, and in a pinch…Sunday service. I see a business opportunity in the making.
***
California has gone full weirdo and stupid, power in the state is already lacking, and danged near every Unicorn Fart wind project in Wyoming is sent to California because the goofballs in charge there have allowed the state power to decline while demanding we plug-in more power-hungry things to an already faltering grid. Funny, decades back these were the same Chicken Little Enviro’s demanding we unplug every appliance in the house to combat ‘micro-draws’ because those appliances “waste energy” with their tiny displays or ‘instant on’ features. Those running the place are stupid and should be defied…arresting people for running their gas lawnmower or chainsaw is gestapo-grade oppression and fully unAmerican. Then again, many who live in the state enjoy their soft (becoming harder) tyranny captivity.
***
Stay safe out there among the English, never know what may happen when out and about in certain places these days…but guessing you are prepare either way.
Prawna – Cajun fashion show. Good one.
reminds me of the tv commercial about soviet fashion. evningvare, svimvare, and kasualvare were all the same, modeled by a very large ukraining looking woman.
Ukrainian women have Viking DNA.
In gray pallor potato sack…and definitely would not be an A-line classic style. Then again, when standing in bread lines for hours one need not look too fetching…or a nice palette of color, can’t stand out in Communist regimes.
I will also be out and about for a couple of weeks. Granddaughter getting married in KC, and we will be looking for a house somewhere south of KC while we’re out there. Will be hitting the road tomorrow morning.
fair winds and following seas, Frank.
“The Pentagon”
“Our Milky Way galaxy contains at least 100 billion stars …”
and then there’s the multi-verse(s):
“Many-Worlds Interpretation (MWI) of Quantum Mechanics”
“Eternal (Chaotic) Inflation and Bubble Universes”
“String Theory Landscape” etc
“For deeper reading, check works by Brian Greene (The Hidden Reality), Sean Carroll, or Alan Guth.”
Grok
Reading:
“Broken Toys and Hungry Ghosts” (IMHO) is well-written SciFi operating on a seldom-explored topic, but:
I would place “Confederate Cipher” in the category of ‘fine literature that will still be enjoyed 50 years hence’ – again IMHO;
it should be on the reading list of every college sophomore:
1. those that are able to read English
2. sophomore – because he/she should have enough life experience by this point to be able to read between the lines and understand that history isn’t necessarily what you find in textbooks
I have to agree.
the va/dnc dims solution is to get rid of the court. they think we’ll sit by n let them do it. hakim dime store obama jeffries is bent out of shape b/c he made 70m dollar promises his ten cent butt can’t fill. he has the look of a junkie a few hours into a dry spell, in need of a fix….the va dims want to ban the sale of gas everything along w/ assault weapons etc. i might just start a side hustle to pay their skyrocketing taxes. taxes on lawn mowing, dog grooming, barber tax, you name it. they even added a tax on tips to take away the cash trump left the wait staff. they sound like the grinch that stole Christmas. the folks out here in red country ain’t laughing. the dims better grow their black hearts a few sizes or grow a brain before we have another lord dunmore incident. sic semper tyrannis, indeed.
That’s NOT chili…just sayin…
Those in Ohio favor whatever it is.
It’s Cincinnati chili, not to be confused with chili. Has to be quite a surprise if you were unaware!
x2!
Spencer Pratt’s series of advertisements for his election are rather good and outright vicious. His ‘Mother’s Day’ video, where his wife sees their ‘new home’ (a trailer at the spot of their old home) is quite emotional. Hope he wins.
–
He’s really hit hard on the dems emptying reservoirs right before fire season.
I think that Spencer Pratt stands a good chance at being elected. It’s not only about him, though. It’s trends and portents that are most important. If LA elects a conservative and sane mayor and city council, how does that play for demons statewide?
“Norway’s decision to stop deliveries of the Kongsberg NSM to Malaysia is based on legitimate concerns about the security of its technology.”
Cmd Sal’s “Bollocks to the Iranian Engineers” post talks about technology “transfer”.
One comment points out that it often gets transferred in combat, when the other side inspects the remains.
Of course, Obama transferred our whole drone to Iran.
.
Two of the commenters there agreed that:
“Look, this Iran war will end up costing the US trillions of $’s and it is shaping up as one of the clearest and definitely the quickest strategic failure in US history.”
Am I missing something?
You are not, and I slightly disagree with the two commenters; it may cost the world market a trillion, but not ‘us’ alone. This is a conflict of attrition to settle this Middle East terrorist regime once and for all…if it costs America billions to get it done and not have these crazies gain a nuke, or land on our shores ready to ‘do it again’, then it will be worth it. Besides, what is the alternative? Allow them to continue as they have been for nearly 50 years because…Carter? Any Dem/Lefty shilling for Iran should have one show up on their protected bubble doorstep, maybe then they’ll get the picture. Probably not, but reality front and center often has that affect…well, on normal thinking people that is.
Incidentally, it IS NOT a US failure as couched, this is a delicate chess game PDJT and his team are managing…and they will succeed as other countries realize it is necessary to end these nutjobs. Patience…only been 10 weeks or so…and that is because…well…nutjobs who think they are invincible and can’t see they are losing so continue to quadruple -down on their brand of delusional insanity. Saw this ‘clock’…someone actually thinks this is necessary as someone is always a critic, especially those who have no clue of what is really happening but cling to their emotions: https://www.iranwarclock.com/
beg pardon
according to my clock, the Iran War began November 4, 1979
Exactly…but the emoting types who have no idea of cause and effect history believe two months is too much to undo a 47 year plague on humanity.
😀
The Woke World that “transitioned” off petroleum should be thrilled that they can keep their windmill societies poor and energy-deprived. Isn’t this what they have been demanding? Trillions? They shouldn’t use a DROP of oil anyway. Let them eat Chinese solar panels.
👍
X3…Money-Mouth.
Oh brother, trillions? Epic Fury is a strategic triumph for the US. No other nation on the planet could have done that and it has reset the global stage in a masterful way. Add taking back the choke points and fixing Venezuela, etc. It’s a master class and will end up ushering in a Golden Age for the US if we can keep the trend going.
X2
X3
Skyline chili! I go to the one in Clearwater FL.
Sidebar: Who had ‘Hantavirus…EVERYBODY PANIC!!’…for May? You win a prize…maybe some new duds from your favorite redneck shop. Oy vey.
😄
“** Canadian friends of mine blame President Trump for all of Canada’s woes – but last time I checked, he wasn’t the President of Canada.”
That mean Trump crushed the leftist crowd working for the new world order in the USA. Now the money flow to the Canadian left is drying up at the same time mean old Trump is putting tariffs back where they should have been for decades. Those hillbilly redneck Albertans would never have dared to restart independence aspirations had Cackles won. So, it is Trump’s fault, and not only Canada. Look to Great Britian, the EU, Iran, Venezuela, Cuba, Mexico and the list goes on. No more go along to get along is so unfair.
I interviewed an Albertan Saturday who said Albertan came from Wyoming.
They have more in common with Wyoming, Montana, and the Dakotas. Other than the **(&*& 100 kph speed limit, not many changes when you cross the border.
Wait until we get closer to Halloween, when a REAL hauntavirus makes its debut.