Quickies

In this article in the NY Times on the slow down in the housing market, one line jumped out at me. After noting that the housing boom added 1.1 million jobs during the last five years, the article states:

The rest of economy lost 1.2 million jobs over the same period, according to an analysis by Moody’s Economy.com.

Further proof of the failed economy of recent times. Very much like the economy in the 80s. Trickle down information about the economic failures of the times comes buried in articles like this one. Yes, some people are doing better, but many others are stagnant or worse.

A Harvard Public Policy Professor outlines 6 objective criteria for determining if a civil war is taking place. No surprise that Iraq meets all 6 criteria.

Though Orhan Pamuk was freed, Turkey is still going about attempted prosecutions of writers who "insult Turkishness". Latest high profile victim: Elif Shafak

Sad day in Seattle as the actions in the Middle East result in a violent outburst here that leaves 6 dead.

Time for some lite news: Shower Boobies (via Feministing, and yes, Samhita's right - talk about mommy issues!)

The Residents have a new video series up on YouTube.