#late stage tax policy

[liberalsarecool]

Republican tax breaks for the wealthy create losses in tax revenues that become debts we borrow with interest to pay, and it gets added to the deficit.

Billionaire welfare is being used to dismantle our society. Republican tax policy is poison for the public safety net.

[danieyells]

. . .I could've sworn I did Ritsu's already. Apparently not. Yuri's one of my favorites and he's the one I chose in the beginning so I'm saving his for when I'm a little better rested(I have Monday off because of another doctor's appointment, so that's the lastest i'll post it)

RITSU IS SO. . .I LOVE HIM. I'll rag on him a lot because he's so tunnel visioned and just like. . .repressed. And he needs to touch grass(figuratively) but also. . .when you've been set from childhood to work and care only for your work and only know your work. . .it's understandable that he is the way he is. . . .

The way he changes as his affinity goes up is very repressed too. . .but you can still see the change at the end a little. He's a very stagnant character. . .but still interesting to look into the mannerisms of.

Hello: (the first time the game is opened after that character is set as home screen NPC. Only happens once per day, unless the character is switched out and back.)

"Any self-respecting inspector would stay comfortably ahead of schedule—I suggest you get into the habit. Let's go—there's no time to waste."

dude this is the 'you've logged in for the first time today' dialogue why are you assuming that i must be late! rude.

You've Got Mail: (whenever there's something in the inbox, usually Arena rewards)

"Did you check that notification yet? We could have a request from a client, so please do so right away."

Default: (requires no affinity, has no time constraints)

"I have been assigned to Sinostra, so I will not allow them to stand trial, no matter how villainous their actions. That is the Shinjo family policy."

"I shall ensure the Gala is held this year, and that Sinostra will wear the Laurel Crown. I have never made a promise I couldn't keep."

boy i can't wait for that to fall through--he, respectfully, needs the humbling.

"I've read the Compendium of Laws countless times since I was a child. Memorizing its contents is a rite of passage for the eldest son of the Shinjo family."

and somehow it ended up an artifact he can use as a weapon? I really wanna know what it does tbh.

"What business do you have with me? Please keep in mind that I charge 5500 yen per half hour for consultations, tax inclusive."

(roughly $35USD, although it's faster to just think of it as $55--) WE ARE BUSINESS PARTNERS. WHAT ARE YOU CHARGING A MFER FOR.

"As long as I have a notebook, my business cards, a binder, paper, and my voice recorder, I can handle the initial stages of any case."

i need my binder every day too ritsu.

Affinity 1: (between 5am and 11am)

"{PC}. Are you aware of the responsibility your position as inspector entails? I suggest you tidy your appearance and wipe that vacant look from your face."

they do not need to be aesthetically in order to be inspector. as long as they're paying attention it may even be better to look vacant. lure them into a false sense of security. also it's easier to pay attention if you're comfortable, in my experience. . . .

Affinity 2: (between 11am and 4pm)

"You've lost your notebook? Just a moment. ...At 9:04 AM, it was inside the photocopier. Yes, I do have that information recorded."

Affinity 3: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"Have you seen Taiga Hoshibami? Strange... According to my behavioral model, he should be in the casino at this time..."

Affinity 4: (between 8pm and 5am)

"At the end of each day, I compile information about every person I encountered in my notebook. It always proves useful eventually."

yandere adjacent behavior, except it's for everyone and not just one person lolol

Affinity 5: (between 8pm and 5am)

"The vice-captain has asked me to organize some documents. Let's start by making copies of everything in case the originals become lost or damaged."

Romeo has a line that references this as well!

Affinity 6: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"I always have my business cards on hand. It should go without saying—any lawyer who fails to gain their client's trust during the first meeting is not worth their salt."

Affinity 7: (between 11am and 4pm)

"A post-meal coffee must be drunk black. Unnecessary additives only interfere with the natural flavor."

Affinity 8: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"Until the age of three, I spent my days visiting the greatest sights the world has to offer with my mother, as from four my studies would prevent me from doing so."

is that child abuse? i think that's child abuse. you learn the source of ritsu's problems very early on in his affinity--he has had zero normal social interaction opportunities and no childhood. From birth until he stopped being a toddler he was just flying around the world looking at beautiful things, no stability in his location or world aside from the presence of his mother, and then he went home and probably basically got locked away to study law the moment he could sort of read. His whole existence was molding him to work. . .Subaru is similar, even down to what age they were forced to start preparing to work at. But Subaru is at least better adjusted, probably because acting awarded him better opportunities to try and think about how other people think.

Affinity 9: (between 8pm and 5am)

"According to my behavioral model, there is a 29% chance that Taiga Hoshibami is currently at the baccarat table."

Affinity 10: (between 10pm and midnight)

"I review the day's coursework for two hours then prepare for the next day's classes for three— no more, and no less. Six more minutes of silence, please."

WHERE DO THE RECORDINGS COME IN TO THIS. This mans somehow has 40 hour days. Maybe his artifact slows down time or something lol

Affinity 11: (between 5am and 11am)

"Good morning, {PC}. We have a meeting at 3 PM today, so please adjust your plans accordingly."

Affinity 12: (between 11am and 4pm)

"Darkwick Rulebook Article 183: "For the protection of anomalies, unnecessary running indoors is prohibited." This rule has been in place for over one hundred years."

wait how old is this school? how old is the Institute???

Affinity 13: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"All right. We need to organize our notes from today's investigation, so let's relocate to the diner. Our usual booth, of course."

Affinity 14: (between 5am and 11am)

"The content of our classes may be novel, but I topped the year in the scholastic ability test—they are nothing I can't handle."

so among the first years' scholastic ability tests, Ritsu was 1st, Leo was 2nd, Sho was 5th. Considering there are only four new first year ghouls then that must include the general students too. I wonder where Ren placed? Probably not very high. But still, Ritsu is a genius. . .or at least very very good at memorizing information. Lots of book smarts, minimal other smarts.

Affinity 15: (between 5am and 11am)

"As your business partner, I request that you improve your conduct. Please refrain from consenting to any further uncompensated labor."

Affinity 16: (between 11am and 4pm)

"Our Anomalous Law classes are truly fascinating. There is a long history well worth learning about— though of course, I have already mastered the basics."

Affinity 17: (between 10pm and midnight)

"I cannot afford to be complacent, even before bedtime. It's vital that I check the day's notes again to ensure nothing has been missed."

Affinity 18: (between 8pm and 5am)

"I set time aside in the evening to watch opera performances online. It allows me to get my thoughts in order, and provides a change of pace."

when??? what time??? because he has to review all of the audio recordings and notes from the whole day--what time does he have to do anything in???

Affinity 19: (between 10pm and midnight)

"I just finished checking my recordings from today. You sighed a total of four times— is something troubling you?"

i love the vibe of this. rather than silently nothing your sighing and potential exhaustion or scolding you for not caring for yourself, he expresses concern towards you. also, it's so soft yandere. like he already records everything you say and do, to confront you over it on top of that he shamelessly defends his recording and notetaking. . .if not for that he recorded everyone it would really be so yandere lolol. instead it's just his odd and overbearing way of showing he's beginning to care.

Affinity 20: (between 5am and 11am)

"You struggle to get up in the morning? I can contact you each day at a set time if you like, but I'll have to think about how much to charge..."

affinity 20 and my guy still wants to charge for his time. . .we're gonna have to teach him to have A Singular Normal Social Connection aren't we. and we're probably gonna fail.

Affinity 21: (between 11am and 4pm)

"You wish to have lunch with me? All right. We are business partners, so I will accompany you free of charge."

wait maybe i spoke too soon.

Affinity 22: (between 4pm and 8pm)

"This is for you, {PC}— it's the takeout coffee I often purchase. Your performance will decline if your mind isn't sharp."

his increased attachment is shown in the bare minimum of understanding normal human social interaction and caring for you by sharing his things and his time without charge. In trying to make you the best you(from his perspective) that you can be. Because that's what his parents did for him--so surely that's the best expression of love he has, aside from obsessive study and understanding.

Affinity 23: (between 8pm and 5am)

"I feel we made solid progress toward the reinstatement of the Gala today. Let's reconvene again tomorrow and continue working together to realize our goal."

Affinity 24: (between 10pm and midnight)

"Could I ask you to accompany me a little longer, {PC}? I realize it's outside of business hours, but...I would appreciate it if you could make a special exception."

He wants to spend time with you. And he's realizing he can just ask that. But he's so entrenched in legal and business mannerisms he doesn't know how to say "i want to be around you for longer". You're his business partner. It's bad form to request your attention outside of work, it has no value towards your goals and business efforts, but. . .that he's making a sort of formal appeal for your attention outside of work is as far as he can get in terms of expressing his affection right now.

Affinity 25(max): (no time constraints)

"It seems we make better business partners than I would have expected. I look forward to a long and prosperous relationship with you."

kind of comical that his max affinity line is still so formal after a more friendly 'please spend time with me late at night' 24th. . .but also, he wants you to be his business partner for longer. i think that counts towards something! It's a reason to stay with you! Maybe over the course of your business partnership he'll learn how to express deeper feelings. . .he's going to need an heir, after all--

Spring: (March-May) (between 5am and 11am)

"There has been a noticeable increase in reports of suspicious activity of late. More incidents means more business. Be prepared."

(between 11am and 4pm)

"You have a petal in your hair. A little more to the right. No, not there. Just let me remove it. Hold still."

(between 4pm and 8pm)

"Indeed, the cherry blossoms are in bloom. Incidentally, Japan's oldest cherry blossom tree can be found in Yamanashi Prefecture and is estimated to be 2000 years old."

ritsu would probably kill at historical trivia night.

(between 8pm and 5am)

"I had tempura at the cafeteria today. It didn't come close to the tempura I would eat with my father at the historic soba restaurant we used to frequent though."

Summer: (June-August) (between 5am and 11am)

"This one is for my face, and this is for my body. I have six handkerchiefs with me— enough for morning, noon, and night. I cannot let my opponents see me sweat."

why's this giving me ace attorney prosecutor energy. . . . .

(between 11am and 4pm)

"I witnessed a half-naked man running around in this vicinity. Did you see him? He is risking a charge of indecent exposure."

but we saw Kaito in his underwear and you said that meant he wasn't at risk of indecent exposure. . . . . . . .

(between 4pm and 8pm)

"The warmer it gets, the more of a racket people make. Honestly, how were these people raised?"

to relax and have fun during the summer break. . .you should give it a try.

(between 8pm and 5am)

"You want to go and watch the fireworks? A rather childish request, but all right. So? Where would one go to view them?"

FIREWORKS DATE FIREWORKS DATE just don't touch him without getting his consent first that could be counted as sexual harassment and he'll Get Your Ass.

Autumn: (September-November) (between 5am and 11am)

"The weather is much more pleasant for going out on professional errands now. A first-rate lawyer keeps their boots on the ground. Now then, let's get going."

(between 11am and 4pm)

"I object to the cultural assumption that fall is the season of the arts. The arts should be enjoyed throughout the year, regardless of the season."

you and yuri would get along well i think. until you realize the guy is a medical malpractice suit waiting to happen. then you'd criticize him and he would take that so poorly.

(between 4pm and 8pm)

"Once I've perused the relevant documents in the library, I plan on doing some reading. Please excuse me."

(between 8pm and 5am)

"The nights may grow longer in the fall, but daylight hours should not affect the time you rise and retire. I'll see you tomorrow."

Winter: (December-February) (between 5am and 11am)

"I have detected a change in how Taiga Hoshibami divides his time since the weather has taken a cold turn. It has created quite a quandary for me..."

yeah he doesn't like getting out of bed when it's cold. he also eats a lot more, like a bear about to hibernate. shockingly behavior patterns tend to change with the seasons.

(between 11am and 4pm)

"I've never experienced snowfall heavy enough to obstruct my movement, but I'd like to deepen my knowledge of the phenomenon for future reference."

to frostheim then! i'm sure that place is just awful for movement in winter.

(between 4pm and 8pm)

"I'm heading to the diner to fulfill a request from Ren Shiranami. Perhaps I shall enjoy a warm bowl of soup while I'm there."

. . .I wonder if this is an Obey Me!Raphael situation where he has no grasp of that the food is not good. . . .

(between 8pm and 5am)

"People say that hard work is the key to success, but it only took me a year to master German—as was the case with Italian and French."

His birthday: (January 13th)

"Indeed, today is my birthday. I've always celebrated this day by enjoying my mother's cooking, but from this year I am striving for a more self-reliant existence."

MAMA'S BOY MAMA'S BOY tbf up until he was 3 his mother was probably his only social connection and then he was locked away studying so. . .his mom is probably the only one he has like. . .personal feelings and attachment for. you'll be a tradwife too :) but also that he's trying to be more self-reliant at darkwick. . .that really does explain that he's like. not used to any sort of social interaction or doing things he hasn't been told to do by his parents. maybe in his time at darkwick he'll realize how good it feels to just. . .be a person. dedicate time to fun and relaxation. realize that work isn't everything. or maybe he'll be so judgemental towards the lifestyles of others he'll retreat even further into his current habits.

Your birthday:

"Happy birthday. A year older, a year wiser. I have high hopes for your performance in the coming year."

New Years: (January 1st)

"Happy New Year. Let's devote these next 365 days—or 8760 hours—to finding fitting solutions to the challenges that come our way."

what if it's a leap year. can we take the extra day off?

Valentine's Day: (February 14th)

"Thank you for the chocolates. Are you gifting them to me out of social obligation, or is this an expression of affection? Your answer will influence what you receive in return."

(for the uninitiated, that is very much a thing in Japan where on valentine's day a girl give some men in her life--like coworkers--obligation chocolates, which are generally not as nice and most likely store bought, although this practice is losing ground. friends get friendship chocolate and you give people you're actually attracted to or in a relationship more extravagant, expensive, or homemade chocolates to express your true feelings or a desire to be in a relationship with them. Ritsu is essentially asking 'is this because we're coworkers or are you asking me out' because White Day is the day for return gifts in response to given valentine's day gifts, and in the case of chocolates given to someone you wanna go out with they can act as a response to that proposal. presumably if you're asking him out he wants to give you chocolate to agree to get with you, since he's bothering to ask. . . .

White Day: (March 14th)

"White Day has its roots in Japan, having been invented by a certain historic confectionery shop. With that knowledge, please accept this."

'here's some trivia. and some chocolates. we are now in a relationship. should this be as fruitful as our business partnership, we can discuss marriage plans within the year.'

April Fool's Day: (April 1st)

"The spreading of false rumors is subject to strict punishment under Article 233 of the Penal Code. Do you still intend to continue this ruse?"

NO FUN ALLOWED.

Halloween: (October 31st)

"Coercing another party to choose between a "trick" or a "treat" could amount to intimidation. Engage in such festivities at your own risk."

NO FUN ALLOWED PART TWO: ILLEGAL BOOGALOO.

Christmas: (December 25th)

"Religious freedom is guaranteed by Article 20 of the Constitution. If this is a day that you wish to celebrate, then I will accept that."

he can't make you work on religious holidays you need off!!

Idle: (about 20 seconds without interacting with the game) (below 13 affinity)

"Five seconds have elapsed. Yes, that is how long you've kept me waiting."

(13 affinity and above)

"How long do you intend to keep me waiting? As always, I am on a tight schedule today. Please hurry up."

Absent: (logging in for the first time in 2 or more days?)

"I've been expecting you, {PC}. You weren't planning on breaking your promise to me, were you?"

SUCH A HARD-WORKING, SOCIALLY INEPT LAD. But Ritsu's a lot of fun, I give him a lot of shit and i desperately need him to touch some grass and get a reality check and learn about how others live and maybe experiment. . .but like i love him for being such a little shit. he's so. . .ignorant to the rest of the world and how other people are. . .i love seeing him try and dissect other people's behavior and intentions and coming to the conclusion that they must want the same things as him because he just. . .has no grasp of interests and intentions that aren't his own. . . . It makes me facepalm but also makes me laugh 8'D good boy. quality boy.

[acti-veg]

i know this might sound like a stupid question but how does capitalism keep going if so many people are against it?

It isn’t a silly at all, it is a question debated by sociologists and political philosophers to this day. Personally, I see the most relevant factors being the disempowerment of the working class, and the apparatus of the state.

Under capitalism, the capitalist class are empowered by the perpetuation of this economic system. They gain the ability to politically lobby, to ‘donate’ to parties who promise to serve their interests, to dictate economic policy and continue to enrich themselves through the alignment of public policy with their own interests. Meanwhile, the working class become more disenfranchised and disempowered, the unions are broken up, and there is a vast media empire hell-bent on turning us into mindless consumers who lack the time or energy for political engagement.

Related to this is the fact that the state and its apparatus mainly function to prop up the capitalist class. State-sponsored violence is used to keep the people in check, public funding taken from our taxes is used to subsidise low wages, to maintain critical infrastructure that corporations depend on, to protect o enforce policies that disproportionately benefit the rich and to educate the people to be docile consumers and workers.

The state also helps moderate some of the worst excesses of capitalism, at least in rich countries. The welfare system theoretically cushions against absolute poverty, it can hinder the abilities for corporations to just murder people in broad daylight, and can enforce some basic human rights. This is all secondary to the goal of capitalism though, and none of these things are ever allowed to interfere with profit.

Consider the fact that anti-capitalism is never on the ballot. Nobody gets a referendum on capitalism. In the UK election we had Labour and conservatives, but both candidates were pro-capitalists pushing a neoliberal agenda. Much was made of the difference between Kamala and Trump, but they are also both neoliberalist politicians who favour the interests of the rich. The rare occasions where we do see a truly anti-capitalist option, the media, trade organisations and global powers collude to crush them.

So the only option left is revolution. But the market and the state have broken up traditional communities, and convinced everyone that we’re are individual consumers instead. The social safety net is gone, but with that, so have worker communities and the power they once wielded. Organsing is harder now than ever, and new protest laws and redefining of ‘terrorism’ means that the state can intervene before you can ever get a movement off the ground. Capitalism is self-perpetuating.

It cannot last forever though. Growth cannot continue indefinitely, finite resources cannot be consumed indefinitely, and living standards cannot be pushed down indefinitely before people start to crack. We are already seeing the beginning of this now. Too many people have no stake in society, no property, no job security and no hope for the future. We are in late stage capitalism, it just depends if we destroy it or it destroys us.

[carpefuckingomnia]

Surviving late-stage capitalism, a term often used to describe the current phase of capitalism characterized by corporate dominance, wealth inequality, and environmental degradation, requires a combination of personal strategies, collective action, and systemic change. Here are some practical steps to navigate and resist its challenges:

### Personal Strategies:

1. **Financial Literacy and Stability**:

- Budget wisely and live within your means.

- Build an emergency fund to cushion against economic shocks.

- Invest in assets that appreciate over time (e.g., education, skills, or low-risk investments).

2. **Skill Development**:

- Continuously learn new skills to stay competitive in the job market.

- Focus on skills that are less likely to be automated, such as creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence.

3. **Minimalism and Sustainability**:

- Reduce consumption and focus on needs rather than wants.

- Support sustainable and ethical businesses.

- Grow your own food or participate in community gardens.

4. **Mental and Physical Health**:

- Prioritize self-care to combat stress and burnout.

- Build strong social connections for emotional support.

- Advocate for better workplace conditions and work-life balance.

### Collective Action:

1. **Unionize and Organize**:

- Join or form labor unions to fight for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions.

- Participate in grassroots movements that challenge corporate power and advocate for workers' rights.

2. **Mutual Aid Networks**:

- Create or join mutual aid groups to share resources, skills, and support within your community.

- These networks can provide a safety net during economic crises.

3. **Cooperative Economies**:

- Support or start worker cooperatives, credit unions, and community-owned businesses.

- These models prioritize people over profits and foster economic democracy.

4. **Political Engagement**:

- Vote for candidates and policies that address wealth inequality, climate change, and corporate accountability.

- Advocate for systemic reforms like universal healthcare, affordable housing, and progressive taxation.

### Systemic Change:

1. **Challenge Corporate Power**:

- Support regulations that limit monopolies and corporate influence in politics.

- Boycott companies that exploit workers or harm the environment.

2. **Promote Economic Democracy**:

- Advocate for policies that redistribute wealth, such as higher taxes on the wealthy and universal basic income.

- Push for public ownership of essential services like healthcare, education, and utilities.

3. **Environmental Justice**:

- Support policies and initiatives that address climate change and prioritize sustainability.

- Hold corporations accountable for environmental destruction.

4. **Education and Awareness**:

- Educate yourself and others about the flaws of late-stage capitalism and alternatives like socialism, degrowth, or post-capitalist economies.

- Use social media and other platforms to raise awareness and mobilize for change.

### Long-Term Vision:

- **Imagine Alternatives**: Explore and advocate for economic systems that prioritize human well-being and ecological sustainability over profit.

- **Build Resilience**: Focus on creating communities and systems that can withstand economic and environmental crises.

Surviving late-stage capitalism is not just about individual survival but also about working collectively to create a more equitable and sustainable future.

[militantinremission]

The 2024 Presidential Debate: Time for New Blood?

In a word, The 1st Presidential Debate of 2024 was BRUTAL! Both Candidates took personal shots at each other; but Joe Biden- to his Credit, offered more Substance than Donald Trump. Trump avoided questions on rising Child Care Costs, Drug Overdoses, & Israel's 'War On Gaza' to name a few, but Biden wasn't able to capitalize on his lack of Policy Measures. Joe Biden came across as 'Too Old for Primetime', & appeared to be regurgitating Talking Points more than confidently articulating his Agenda for the next 4 Years. Donald Trump rambled on & embellished the truth for most of The Debate, instead of answering questions directly. BOTH had moments where they were less than honest. Trump focused on Biden's Job Performance more than articulating his Own Agenda for the next 4 Years. Joe Biden seemed more cognizant AFTER The Debate, than during it.

Donald Trump- to his Credit, was more reserved than he was in the 2020 Presidential Debates. Ironically, it was Joe Biden who initiated the insults, but Trump apparently didn't take The Bait. BOTH performances were subpar for a Presidential Candidate; I understand why Robert Kennedy Jr. was kept off that Debate Stage. NEITHER Candidate offered a Real Solution to Black Specific Issues. Instead, Both pivoted to the Reliable Standard of including 'Hispanics' & 'Minorities' into the Black American conversation. Donald Trump commented that Illegal Immigrants were stealing 'Black Jobs'. Mainstream Media & some Blackfolk were insulted by the statement, but Black Men have been literally pushed out of Union Jobs; particularly in the Field of Construction, in favor of Immigrants. People seem to forget that Black Men have traditionally been Blue Collar Workers. Trump is a virtual King of 'Off Color Comments', but many of Us understood what he was trying to say.

From a Black Perspective, the pivot away from Black Specific Issues speaks volumes about BOTH Party Agendas. Most Black Americans can't afford HBCU Tuitions, so funding them is a Moot Point to Us. Offering Black Students Free or Lower Tuition to State Universities would make more sense. Joe Biden offered a $10K Tax Credit to Black 1st Time Home Buyers, but didn't elaborate on it. He appeared strongest on the topic of Abortion, but allowed Trump to flummox him on the topic; particularly Late Term Abortions. Donald Trump appeared strongest on the issue of Immigration & put Biden on the spot several times, but didn't offer a Specific Agenda on how he will tackle it. Trump also lacked a Policy for lowering Inflation, other than extending his Tax Cuts to Corporations. Joe Biden's Economic Plan, is the continuation of 'Bidenomics'- A Plan that many are already concerned about.

Political Analysts & Pundits covering the Debate were quick to point out Joe Biden's performance. Most felt that he missed several opportunities to catch Donald Trump in blatant lies; they also questioned his Physical & Mental Fitness. He was supposed to reassure his Base that he had the Strength & Mental Competence to Serve another 4 Years, but critics are questioning his ability to finish the 1st Term of Office. Several Democratic Strategists called Biden "feeble & weak". Joy Reid said that Dems she spoke w/ are bordering on 'panic'. Rumors are spreading of a possible intervention asking him to step down, but it might be too late to change Candidates. CNN was accused of Stacking the Deck in favor of Joe Biden, but Trump appeared comfortable w/ the format. Both Moderators allowed Donald Trump to embellish w/o fact checking him; was that their job, or Biden's to do?

Democrats are calling Joe Biden's performance 'A Bad Night' (citing a Cold & scratchy throat), while the GOP applauds Donald Trump for 'Doing what he had to do'. I thought that BOTH Candidates were mediocre. Trump is being congratulated for Side Stepping questions & presenting a Vision of Smoke & Mirrors. Biden took a week off to prepare, but instead of repeating his State Of The Union Address performance, he stumbled through most of the Debate. Mainstream Media tried to predict This Debate would rival the Kennedy vs Nixon Debate of 1960, but it wasn't even close. The best dialogue between the Candidates, was about their Golfing Handicaps. America deserves a President that will move Us forward, but We have 2 'Old Dudes' caught up in their Own Egocentricity.

Donald Trump admitted that he's only running again, because he didn't see a GOP Candidate that could defeat Joe Biden. There are GOP Moderates out there that Republican Leadership & Voters could legitimately support. A few might even sway Independents, Libertarians, & disaffected Democrats; but grassroot support for the 'MAGA Agenda' has silenced most, out of fear of being labeled 'RINO'... I thought that This 'Pre Baby Boomer' Generation was willing to pass the baton when Barack Obama was Elected, but it seems like they've Doubled Down since he left Office. We currently have a Congress run by folks adamant about holding Power until it's pried from their Cold Dead Hands. The World Dynamic is changing & America needs to adapt. The Era of 'Neo Conservatives' & 'Neo Liberals' has run its Course- BOTH allowed the development of a Plutocratic Billionaire Class that has literally choked the Middle Class.

The Future Generations of American Society are NOT expected to outperform the previous Generations. Gen. Z in particular, is DROWNING before They can even Start; but Our 'Elder States[Wo]Men' don't seem fazed by This. They ALL seem content w/ taking The Country Down w/ them.

-It's TIME for New Blood!

[apprenticesofdeweyhigh]

US-elections again. Can't believe it. It's the third time of Trump against an other candidate, and still it is such a close race. Which leaves me wondering. I can understand having different opinions, but still this amount of votes for Trump with his extreme positions? Even as in the US-system not every vote counts the same by their election system. For me, Trump is an incarnation of an ego-trip, which doesn't care about others. Low-tax-policy, attempts to restrict the health-insurance Obama-Care. Establishing a system with parameters, which governs people with a good starting position to develop even more force. Reverse, being a disadvantage for most people – independent whether being democratic or republican or neither.

Plus his politics against immigrants – such an irony, as "his" America consists purely of a late-generation of immigrants. Why is this possible? More or less, maybe because he promises ease. The easy way, the simple answers, which have to be repeated and repeated as there is no deep truth behind, anything more to say. Make America great again? America is great. And it never was as great as the promise promises – it always had problems with economic downs, racism, poverty, unequal opportunities.

The America people dream of, I doubt it ever existed. It's a promise of a never-happened past. The power of dreams lies in the unrestricted potential of them, the lifted boundaries. Dreams can be close to illusions. But when dreams should become real, they should start from reality, learning from the past to go into a better future. And withstand questioning. Is Trumps dream the dream of the people voting for him? I think it is not. Trump is living his own dream, trying to change the perception of reality. His dream is using the dreams of others, and paradoxically they grow together. The abuser doesn't have to take the right actions. He only needs to control the vision.

Anyway, I wanted to re-post an art piece I did four years ago. Not here, as I don't want to do reposts but on my instagram-channel, where it was not yet. In addition, I thought of doing a collage (which means kind of a double-posting, how...productive?) Yet I didn't have any idea. I also wanted to do it simple, without too big signs, at least some – like pictures of poverty. Instead, I choose a picture of afghanistan, representing a part of Americas younger past, loaded with so many aspects. A picture of wall-street, and of an American Suburb. Unclear in the fog.

PS.: As there is SO much speach of Trump against mexicans, I just want to pronounce that one of the best film-directors, Alejandro González Iñárritu, is mexican, and one of the greatest comedians, Gabriel "Fluffy" Iglesias, is the son of a mexican mother. So instead building walls, maybe they should build cinemas and stages.

[call-sign-foxtrot]

A Neo-liberalistic Nihilistic Manifesto

Economic Policy meets Existential Despair

In this grim guide, we'll delve into the depths of neoliberalistic nihilism and explore the realities of navigating the market-driven hellscape. In this journey through the corners of capitalism, where the only certainty is uncertainty, and the only currency is cold, hard cash. History? A meaningless series of market fluctuations. Morality? A subjective construct hindering your consumption choices. Truth? Fungible and for sale to the highest bidder.

Step 1: Embrace the Market Abyss

In this wild west of capitalism, the invisible hand of the market reigns supreme, guiding through the chaos of supply and demand like a blindfolded stumbling through a minefield. Forget about regulations or ethical dilemmas – profit is the only compass you need. The market will definitely reward your...gestures vaguely...audacity with untold riches (or bankruptcy, but hey, it's all meaningless anyway). But in this world, failure is but a temporary setback, a stepping stone on the path to greater success. After all, what does it matter if we lose it all, if the game is all that matters?

Step 2: Find Meaning in Materialism

In this world devoid of inherent meaning, material possessions become our gods. So go ahead, splurge on that designer handbag or the latest iPhone – they're the closest thing to existential fulfilment money can buy. With each purchase, we are not only filling the void within, but also contributing to the great capitalist machine that powers our world. And in doing so, we are becoming the ultimate consumers, the apex predators of the consumerist jungle. Just ignore the sense of emptiness that creeps in when you realize that no amount of consumerism can fill the void within. So why not treat yourself to that dopamine rush you get from scoring those limited-edition drops? It's basically the same feeling as finding true happiness, only slightly less sustainable and much more expensive.

Step 3: Exploit, Exploit, Exploit

In the pursuit of profit, nothing is off-limits. Exploit cheap labor in developing countries? Check. Dodge taxes like a like a ship vanishing into fog? Double check. Destroy the environment faster than you can say "climate change is real"? Triple check. In the grand scheme of things, morals are just roadblocks on the way to wealth. "This all sounds so...unethical." And you're right. It is. But in the world of business, morals are just a luxury that only the weak can afford. So, if you want to make it to the top, you'd better be prepared to leave your conscience at the door. Who needs a clear conscience when you have a yacht? Or a private jet? Or a mansion on a hill?

Step 4: Rinse and Repeat

Congratulations, you're now a card-carrying member of the neoliberalistic nihilist club! But remember, the journey is never truly over. As you navigate the waters of late-stage capitalism, always keep one eye on the bottom line and the other on the abyss. Who knows, maybe one day you'll achieve true enlightenment – or at least a slightly bigger offshore bank account. Perhaps we will find the freedom we so desperately crave – or perhaps, more likely, we will find nothing at all.

Step 5: Await the End

Now all that remains is to await the inevitable collapse – the final unraveling of civilization as we know it. Embrace the pain, the anguish, the existential despair – for in the depths of suffering lies the only semblance of truth we will ever know. Let it wash over you like a tidal wave, drowning out the hollow echoes of consumerism and capitalist excess. For in the end, it is our suffering that defines us – not our fleeting moments of happiness or success.

Disclaimer: This is Satire. Repeat: "There is only the market, and the market is good..." (except when it isn't, but hey, that's the thrill of the gamble, right?).

[xtruss]

Obituary: The Scandalous Life and Career of Silvio Berlusconi

The Former Italian Leader Loved Topless Women and Vladimir Putin but Hated Being Compared to Donald Trump.

— June 12, 2023 | By Barbie Latza Nadeau | Foreign Policy

Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi arrives for a news conference at the Chigi Palace in Rome on May 26, 2010. Alberto Pizzou/AFP Via Getty Images

Silvio Berlusconi, Italy’s longest-reigning post-World War II leader, wanted nothing more than for people to love him. Whether he was on the global stage or the stage of the cruise ship where he first worked as a singer, the former Italian prime minister, who died Monday at 86, was always working the crowd in a desperate search for approval.

Though Berlusconi officially left politics in a black limousine in November 2011—delivering his resignation to Italian President Giorgio Napolitano in Rome’s Quirinale Palace—he remained highly influential as a political powerbroker until his death.

It was a confidence vote over tax fraud allegations that forced his departure from office. After resigning, the former statesman sat slumped in the back of his dark limo as his driver slalomed through unfriendly crowds that lined the route to his tony villa, the Piazza Venezia. Spectators popped champagne corks in his direction, threw coins, and spat at his car yelling profanities and calling him a mafioso and a thief. A small ensemble played the “Hallelujah” chorus from George Frideric Handel’s “Messiah.” It was a spectacle only Italians could pull off with such flair.

Berlusconi mingles with supporters during a rally for his Forza Italia party in Rome on Feb. 6, 1994. Franco Origlia/Getty Images

Another government collapse meant little in Italy, but there was something spectacular about Berlusconi’s fall from grace. The “Teflon Don,” as he had been known before finally being ousted, was tarnished by a sex scandal in 2010 involving then-17-year-old dancer Karima El Mahroug, whose stage name was “Ruby Rubacuori” (Ruby Heartbreaker). Berlusconi had sprung her from a Milan police station after she called one of his assistants, who was aware that Ruby knew a lot more than most young women in Berlusconi’s lewd circle. The Ruby scandal started with Berlusconi’s office calling the Milan police station to say the young woman in question was Egyptian leader Hosni Mubarak’s granddaughter, which she was not. What she was, though, was a regular fixture in the “Bunga Bunga” parties the prime minister, also known as “Il Cavaliere” (The Knight), held in the basement of his Villa Arcore near Milan.

Women who participated in the soirees during nights of lap dancing for Berlusconi cronies—including strippers costumed as nuns, popes, and former U.S. President Barack Obama—told the courts during many investigations into Berlusconi that they were handed envelopes with cash and little gold necklaces with butterflies on them as payment at the end of each party.

By this time, Berlusconi had already been accused of what in most countries would be full-blown sex scandals but which are in Italy, for reasons not entirely clear, often empowering. Ruby was somehow different, however, not least because she was under the age of 18. The age of consent in Italy is 16, but the age of legal prostitution is 18, and she was—in the eyes of the law—prostituting herself to Berlusconi and his cronies. His defense was that she misled him about her age.

Berlusconi apparently learned the name “Bunga Bunga” from the late Libyan leader Muammar al-Qaddafi, who often pitched his Bedouin tents in some of Rome’s most lavish gardens on state visits and who was himself accused of abducting underage girls and holding them captive as sex slaves. The two leaders had an unusually close relationship, which led to Berlusconi signing a treaty in 2008 that funneled $5 billion to the North African nation to compensate for Italy’s colonization. In return, Qaddafi stopped the flow of African migrants crossing the Mediterranean Sea from Libya, while warning he could again “turn on the spigot and turn Europe black.” Berlusconi’s face even graced Libyan passports in the years before Qaddafi was killed during Libya’s civil war.

Then-Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin and Berlusconi confer during a news conference at Villa Gernetto in Lesmo, Italy, on April 26, 2010. Vittorio Zunino Celotto/Getty Images

Berlusconi’s legacy ebbed and flowed as those he chose to embrace rose or fell into disgrace. He was considered U.S. President George W. Bush’s “second-best European friend” and stood up for U.S. President Bill Clinton when he was found to have had a sexual relationship with White House intern Monica Lewinsky. But it was his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin that would prove his most difficult and most damaging.

The two men made headlines when an escort wrote in her 2008 tell-all book that she had sex with Berlusconi in his Rome residence on a four-poster bed he referred to as “Putin’s bed.” The white bed, which she described as “having curtains at the top,” was almost certainly a wink-wink gift from one self-considered stud to another. In exchange, Berlusconi gave Putin a comforter cover featuring a real photo of the two men shaking hands and smiling ear-to-ear.

When Russia invaded Ukraine, it took Berlusconi more than a month to condemn the friend with whom he often shared his holiday homes in Sardinia, spawning an enclave for Russian oligarchs. Shortly after the war began, he told reporters that he thought “Europe must make a peace proposal, trying to get the Ukrainians to accept Putin’s demands.” He finally admitted his old friend Vlad was wrong, saying he was “disappointed and saddened” by his actions.

Not unlike former U.S. President Donald Trump—another “Teflon Don” to whom Berlusconi hated being compared—Berlusconi was the first Italian prime minister to lead the country without ever having served as an elected official. Though the two men shared similar styles, Berlusconi was a highly educated man whose grasp on geopolitics was impressive.

During an interview that former Newsweek foreign editor Christopher Dickey and I did with Berlusconi at his palatial Roman abode, he was flanked by aides and assistants he could have called on to answer any question. Instead, he spoke knowledgeably about Middle Eastern politics, named leaders from far-flung countries, provided insights on U.S. political debates, and gave us a read on nearly every country in Europe—how their leaders were faring and what the biggest geopolitical issues were at the time—all while his aides were left to chew idly on their croissants.

A young Berlusconi with his children (from left) Barbara, Luigi, and Eleonora in his villa near Milan circa 1994. Franco Origlia/Getty Images

Berlusconi was born to a bank employee and a housewife in 1936. He would spend years taking his mother Rosa with him to meet world leaders, and she was often at his side at state dinners. She died in 2008. His sister Maria Francesca Antonietta died a year after their mother, and his brother and sometimes business partner Paolo is often in the sights of financial police.

One of his first jobs was as a vacuum salesman, and he moonlighted as a cruise ship singer throughout the 1960s. Later in life, between political successes, he wrote songs and published albums of Neapolitan ballads that are still widely played across Italy.

He graduated with honors from law school in 1961 and married his first wife, Carla Elvira Dall’Oglio, in 1965. Though they would divorce, she is perhaps the only woman who never told the tabloids anything about their relationship. She was maintained financially throughout her life, given a monthly alimony payment that has never been made public but which was apparently enough to keep her from succumbing to the barrage of media requests asking her to talk about her ex. The children he had with her, Marina and Pier Silvio, played crucial roles in his extensive media and real estate investments.

In the 1980s, Berlusconi married his second wife, Veronica Lario, with whom he fell in love (by his own account, during his interview with me and Dickey) when she performed topless at a dance in Milan. He went on to have three children with her (Barbara in 1984, Eleonora in 1986, and Luigi in 1988). They divorced amid spectacular scandal in 2009, when she announced in an op-ed for a left-leaning newspaper that she was leaving him because he “consorts with minors.” He was ordered to pay her an annual alimony of $48 million to maintain the lifestyle he had created for her. By then, Berlusconi was a billionaire many times over.

Berlusconi at the beach in Hammamet, Tunisia, in August 1984. Umberto Cicconi/Getty Images

Berlusconi started his real estate business with a housing development for young professionals in Milan’s smartest suburb, aiming to create a posh enclave for a lifestyle-driven clientele. The money for his initial investment remained of questionable origin until his death, with many prosecutors unsuccessfully trying to prove it was driven by the mafia.

He went on to build a media empire off his real estate profits and was the first to introduce American-style sitcoms to Italian audiences through his first television networks, including Telemilano, which he launched in 1974, and Canale 5, which he started in 1980. He created what is now Italy’s largest commercial broadcaster, Mediaset, importing American programs including “General Hospital” and “Dallas,” with which he was obsessed. But he also introduced rampant sexism with programs featuring scantily-clad women pandering to older men—the women rarely spoke beyond introducing commercial breaks or replying that they didn’t know the answer to a question to open up a segment—a style of TV that persists today and which is blamed in part for the country’s strong patriarchal grip on society.

He continued to invest substantial profits in real estate, publishing, commercial stores, and the AC Milan soccer club, which he runs under the umbrella group Fininvest. That group includes more than 150 businesses and has been the target of perhaps as many investigations, trials, and fines for creative bookkeeping.

Seizing on Italy’s obsession with sports, Berlusconi launched his own political party in 1994 called “Forza Italia” (Forward Italy), the cry Italian fans yell at the World Cup and national competitions. He went on to serve three times as prime minister: from May 1994 to January 1995, from June 2001 to May 2006, and from May 2008 to November 2011.

His tenure was peppered by tax fraud accusations, sex scandals, whispers of mafia involvement, and gaffes. He was convicted of bribery, tax evasion, and having sex with an underage call girl—convictions that mostly were overturned during Italy’s generous appellate process. At least twice, his eventual acquittals were the result of his own government changing the laws. In 2014, he served community service for a tax fraud conviction the previous year.

Berlusconi takes off his face mask to address the media as he leaves San Raffaele Hospital in Milan on Sept. 14, 2020, after being hospitalized for COVID-19. Piero Cruciatti/AFP Via Getty Images

Berlusconi frequently said he had done more for women than anyone else in Italy, including appointing a former topless Perilli calendar model as his minister of equal opportunity. But as much of the rest of the world moved to equalize salaries and combat blatant sexism, Italy remains demonstrably far behind most developed countries. Italy consistently scores low in the World Economic Forum’s annual gender report, with fewer women managers and decision makers than other European countries and extremely low paternity leave benefits, suggesting women are the main caretakers for children.

Berlusconi suffered several health issues, including heart problems that kept him in and out of the hospital—this often happened when he had a trial date for one of his many cases on appeal—and he suffered serious COVID-19 symptoms early in the pandemic. He also suffered multiple lacerations and a fractured nose when someone threw a souvenir statue of the Milan Duomo at him in 2009 as he signed autographs at a campaign rally. In April 2023, he was diagnosed with leukemia.

Yet he remained a powerful figure until the end, even winning a seat in the Italian Senate in 2022. But he will likely be remembered most for his gaffes and scandals, including when he famously called German Chancellor Angela Merkel “unfuckable” on a hot mic and publicly called Obama’s Black skin a “tan.”

Some of his adoring followers called for a state funeral long before he died. His foes blamed him for Italy’s ruinous economic state and hard-to-deny struggle with following rules. For many, it might be tempting to think of him as a pathetic joke, but he was far too wealthy and powerful for that.

Correction, June 12, 2023: A previous version of this article misstated Berlusconi’s comparative time in office.

— Barbie Latza Nadeau is an American Journalist who has lived in Rome, Italy, since 1996. She is the author, most recently, of The Godmother: Murder, Vengeance, and the Bloody Struggle of Mafia Women.

[thepolyamorouspolymath]

I'm guessing a lot of people may not understand what this actually means, and that's sad because it's fucking beautiful.

So the ultrarich pay almost nothing in taxes, because they don't earn salary or wages -- guys like Musk and Bezos probably take the most minimal salary possible, choosing stock or stock options in lieu of cash (This is a legitimate method for start ups to use to get bigger talent than they have cash flow for, it is not an inherently evil tool of late stage capitalist greed.) They then use the value of that stock to take out loans every year, which is not taxable as income (again, that's a legitimate tax policy that is being exploited in a way that makes it hard to close) for whatever cost of living they choose.

(Spectacularly bad policy on the part of banks and these "genius" businessmen who don't grasp that despite measures to prevent a market collapse overnight, a market collapse could very much still happen without a chance to protect assets)

They pay a 5% interest rate to the bank instead of 20% in taxes. It's a neat and perfectly legal way of not paying taxes.

Unrealized capital gains means IF you have assets in excess of 100M (so no this will not apply to pensions or IRAs or normal investment) you will be taxed on the increase in value of your personal assets for the year, because you COULD have had that difference in income if you weren't trying to avoid civic responsibilities.

So when Amazon profiteers on a global pandemic and Bezos' makes $100B in a year in stock value, he would have to pay $25B in tax on that increase.

It maintains all the mechanisms in the tax code for people who we genuinely should want to help encourage -- small business owners, students, anyone with less than $100M in assets... while also creating a way to tax those who can most afford it, in a fully constitutional way.

This is not a new concept, it's long been known that this could be done but good luck getting any support for it among politicians who worship at the altar of "greed is good".

To see the actual nominee of the Democratic party -- one doing exceedingly well, no less -- come back around to representing the liberal economic principles that gave us the longest period of sustained growth in American history and created the middle class as a realistic goal is just stunning. Since Reagan, Democrats have been running away from liberal principles, trying to appear moderate and seeking unity.

For all that Biden has not pursued a lot of further left wing positions, he did start the departure from the need to seem like we are the party of compromise regardless of need, and now Harris is taking it even further by firmly embracing liberal policies.

⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️⬆️

Conservatives are going nuts oner this

[deasjournal]

The Sun Is a Liar (And Other Thoughts on Climate Change, Inequality, and the Dress Rehearsal We Bombed)

By: Me, a girl with SPF 50, a tote full of guilt, and a lot of questions about global tax policy

It’s 9 a.m., I’ve just landed in a new city, and the weather is suspiciously perfect. Like, Instagram-perfect. The kind of morning that should cue a light serotonin drizzle, a flirtation with iced coffee, maybe a sundress. But instead, I feel like I’m being gaslit by the sky.

The taxi driver says, “Yes, that’s terrible,” in this bone-dry, poetic way that makes me want to record him and submit the audio to MoMA. What he means is: we both know this weather shouldn’t be this warm, this bright, this here. Not in April. Not like this. It’s the kind of sunny that makes you feel like the planet is about to break up with you, but it’s trying to do it gently—with golden hour lighting and a soft breeze.

And honestly? That’s kind of the vibe of climate change right now. Like, yes, the world is ending, but can we make it aesthetic? Can we make it a TikTok? Can we sell it back to ourselves in the form of collapsible water bottles and self-care guides that double as shopping lists?

I’ve been thinking a lot about this lately—not just the weather, but who gets to be surprised by it. Who gets to pretend that climate change is a future problem, and who’s already living in its dystopian trailer. Spoiler: the people who did the least to cause this mess are the ones who’ll suffer the most. And the ones holding the umbrella? They’re the ones who set the fire.

Let’s back up.

Act I: The Vibe Shift

Here’s the thing: rich countries are responsible for the majority of the carbon in the atmosphere. This isn’t new. It’s not even controversial. It’s in every climate report ever, tucked between graphs and polite language that makes it sound like an accident. Like industrialization was a surprise party we threw for ourselves and just happened to leave trash all over the planet.

But instead of taking responsibility, rich countries point fingers: “Look at China! Look at India!” Like kids caught with chocolate all over their face, blaming the baby who just learned how to crawl.

The trick is in how we count. If we only track where emissions happen, it looks like the Global South is to blame. But if we track why those emissions happen—like, for whose Amazon haul or whose electric SUV—the story changes. Turns out, the emissions follow the money. And that money lives in the U.S. and Europe. In our phones. Our sneakers. Our skincare fridges. Our Insta-perfect lifestyles that depend on invisible factories far away.

Act II: The Electric Car Fallacy

It’s cute that we think buying an electric car makes us a climate hero. Like we’re starring in some reboot of Captain Planet but with better hair and a mild online following. But let’s zoom out. Where was the battery made? What powers the grid where you charge it? How much fossil fuel went into shipping it to your driveway?

The answer: more than you think. And more importantly: none of that is your fault, exactly. But it’s also not not your fault. We live in a system that rewards convenience over consciousness. And then sells us back our guilt in the form of biodegradable phone cases.

Act III: The 10/50 Rule (a.k.a. Late-Stage Capitalism)

This part still blows my mind: the top 10% of people globally are responsible for 50% of emissions. The bottom 50%? Just 10%. It’s the kind of stat that sounds fake, like a parody of inequality, but it’s very real. And very depressing. And it means that climate change is less about countries and more about class. About how the rich get to burn the planet twice—once by causing the crisis, and again by surviving it comfortably.

Some rich countries might even see fewer deaths from climate change because winters are getting milder. Meanwhile, countries in the Global South will see heat deaths spike. Not from floods. Not from disasters. Just from temperature. Just from being too hot to stay alive. It's giving District 12, but no one’s watching the Hunger Games on TV this time.

Act IV: The Dress Rehearsal

Remember COVID? When we said we’d be better after? That we’d take care of each other and learn from this? Yeah. We bombed the dress rehearsal. Rich countries spent 27% of their GDP on stimulus. Poor countries? 2%. Not because they didn’t want to help their people, but because they couldn’t. Because the world economy is rigged like a claw machine with no claws.

And vaccines. We had enough. We hoarded them anyway. It would’ve cost pennies—literal spare change in the collective Gucci bag—to vaccinate the Global South. But we didn’t. And now, surprise: they’re not exactly lining up to trust us with the climate crisis.

You can’t ask someone to jump off a burning boat and then push away the life raft. Especially when you lit the match.

Act V: Okay, But What’s the Plan?

Let’s talk solutions. Not the cute ones. The real ones.

The world already agreed (barely) to tax multinational corporations 15%. Cool. Now let’s nudge that up to 18% or 20%. That’s hundreds of billions in climate cash. Real money. Without inventing a new system, just using the one we have—harder.

How to spend it?

Forget bloated global funds that take five years to move a dollar. And forget giving governments blank checks with a “good luck!” note. What worked during COVID? Direct cash transfers. Money to phones. To people. India has the infrastructure. Togo built it in weeks. We can do this.

Send money before disasters hit. In Bangladesh, when people were paid ahead of a flood, they were able to move. To prepare. To live. That’s the future. Not reaction. Prevention.

Also: help poor countries leapfrog to clean tech. Skip the fossil fuel era. Give them the tools we wish we had when we started. Fund R&D. Let ideas come from the ground up. Make grants, not loans. If someone’s drowning, don’t throw them a credit card.

Act VI: Let’s Talk About Rich People (Again)

A global wealth tax. Yes, I said it. Just 2%. That’s all. From the people whose carbon footprint looks like a Bond villain lair. It’s not radical. It’s math. It’s fairness. And it’s easier than trying to slap a price on every single carbon molecule.

Also: stop pretending corruption is a Global South problem. Look around. Rich countries have lobbyists. Dark money. Tax evasion dressed up in law degrees. Corruption isn’t a reason not to help. It’s a reason to design systems that are transparent. Direct. Accountable.

Act VII: Not Growth. Not Degrowth. Just… Better Questions.

“Degrowth” sounds cute until you say it to someone living on $2 a day. You can’t tell someone to tighten their belt when they don’t even have a belt. Or pants. Growth isn't bad. But it’s not the goal. The goal is well-being. Safety. Joy. Stability. Things that sometimes do require growth—just not the mindless, mall-expansion kind.

What we can do is change how rich countries live. Consume less. Waste less. Get real about the fact that “green” tech isn’t enough if we don’t also change our habits. Europeans use half the energy Americans do—and they’re still watching Euphoria in high-res and eating cheese.

It’s possible.

Final Act: Split the Check

If the world is going to end, the least we can do is try to split the check. Not evenly. But fairly.

This isn’t about doom. It’s about design. About believing that we can build something better, if we stop trying to greenwash inequality and start talking about power. About justice. About how warm weather can feel like a betrayal. About how beauty can lie. About how the future might still be worth fighting for—if we learn how to share it.

Even if that means giving up your umbrella. Or better yet: handing someone else a new one.

[calvertandcoelhorealestate]

Discovering Real Estate Opportunities: A Guide to Buying Residential and Commercial Properties in Po

Portugal, a land steeped in culture and natural beauty, offers a vibrant landscape for property investment. The appeal of its picturesque villages, stunning coastlines, and a rich history make it a top destination for individuals and businesses looking to invest in real estate. As of late, both local and foreign buyers are flocking to this Mediterranean gem to explore the potential of owning property. This article delves into the nuances of buying residential property in Portugal and explores opportunities in the commercial market, guiding prospective investors on their journey.

The Allure of Portugal: A Property Buyer’s Paradise

With its mild climate, delicious cuisine, and welcoming communities, Portugal has become a beacon for property buyers. The real estate market offers a diverse range of options, from quaint homes in rural areas to luxurious villas along the coastline. The emphasis on quality of life and the affordability of property compared to other European destinations make buying residential property in Portugal a wise investment. Moreover, Portugal's Golden Visa program attracts international buyers, enabling them to access stunning properties while enjoying residency benefits. These factors contribute to the burgeoning real estate market, making it an opportune time for acquisitions.

Navigating the Process of Purchase

Understanding the landscape of property transactions is essential for anyone interested in buying residential property in Portugal. The process involves several stages, including securing financing, obtaining a NIF (tax identification number), and engaging a reputable real estate agent. Transparency is crucial in the Portuguese market, with contracts outlining all terms and conditions. Buyers are also advised to seek legal counsel to navigate bureaucracy and ensure a smooth transaction. Beyond paperwork, potential investors should conduct thorough due diligence, including verifying the property’s history, location desirability, and potential for value appreciation.

Commercial Real Estate: Exploring Investment Opportunities

Beyond residential properties, Portugal has become an increasingly attractive location for commercial properties for sale in Portugal. The country’s growing economy, coupled with favorable taxation policies, has encouraged businesses to establish their presence here. Various sectors, such as hospitality, retail, and technology, are seeing significant growth, leading to increased demand for commercial spaces. Investors should consider the potential return on investment when exploring these options. Portugal's strategic position in Europe and strong transportation connections further enhance its appeal as a business hub, thus drawing more attention to available commercial real estate.

Understanding Market Trends and Opportunities

When venturing into the world of commercial real estate, it’s crucial to stay informed about current market trends. The hospitality sector, for example, has witnessed explosive growth, thanks in part to the booming tourism industry. Investing in hotels or vacation rental properties can yield significant returns as Portugal remains a top-notch destination for travelers seeking sun and adventure. Retail spaces near popular tourist attractions or bustling urban centers are also in demand. Understanding these dynamics is essential for anyone considering commercial properties for sale in Portugal. Timing the market and recognizing the best locations are key factors that contribute to successful investments.

[happilykawaiicowboy]

Bill Chisholm Group Reaches $6.1 Billion Deal to Buy Boston Celtics | Bloomberg Intelligence

Bloomberg Intelligence hosted by Paul Sweeney and Alix Steel Today’s Podcast Features are: Scott Sosnick, Editor in Chief at Sportico, discusses how a consortium that includes tech and real estate investors, alongside a private equity firm, reaching a deal to buy the National Basketball Association (https://www.bloomberg.com/quote/10351... Boston Celtics for $6.1 billion. The takeover is not only the biggest NBA deal ever, surpassing the $4 billion valuation hit when Mat Ishbia struck an agreement for the Phoenix Suns (https://www.bloomberg.com/quote/32566...) in late 2022, but also the largest ever sports takeover. The Washington Commanders were sold in 2023 for $6.05 billion. Sandi Bragar, Chief Client Officer at Aspiriant,discusses her outlook for the markets. US economy: She expects the US economy to bend not break. Her view is we’re still in the very early stages of policy changes and we’re starting off with the more punitive changes now (tariffs & spending cuts) but the more stimulative changes are also coming (tax cuts and deregulation). Fed Policy: She thinks the FOMC decision was generally ‘as expected.’ She’s not expecting rate increases any time soon. Craig Trudell, Bloomberg Global Autos Editor, discusses Tesla recalling all the Cybertrucks it produced and sold in the first 15 months it’s been on the US market over a safety issue it’s having trouble resolving. The carmaker estimates that 1% of the 46,096 pickups it’s calling back have a defect, according to a recall report filed with the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Pieces of steel trim along the exterior of the Cybertruck are joined to the vehicle by an adhesive that’s “susceptible to environmental embrittlement,” the company said. See omnystudio.com/listener (https://omnystudio.com/listener) for privacy information. Paul Sweeney and the Bloomberg News team cover the day's market action, with analysis from Bloomberg Intelligence analysts, Bloomberg Opinion writers and influential newsmakers.

Full Video

https://sfl.gl/67oZpsT

[mysteriouslysillyhideout]

The Rise and Fall of Magnus “Mac” Schäfer

Magnus “Mac” Schäfer was a man who thrived on chaos. Born in New York City to a German father and a Scottish-American mother, he grew up hearing tales of resilience and cunning from both sides of his heritage. His father, a shrewd businessman with questionable ethics, and his mother, a sharp-tongued storyteller from the Midwest, shaped Mac into a charismatic manipulator who could charm anyone while plotting their downfall.

By the time he was 30, Mac had amassed a fortune through shady real estate deals, offshore accounts, and a series of shell companies designed to obscure his involvement in tax fraud and embezzlement. He was investigated repeatedly but always managed to avoid conviction, skillfully blaming underlings or exploiting legal loopholes. His talent for spinning scandals into victories earned him a reputation as “the Teflon Tycoon.”

But Mac wanted more than wealth; he wanted power.

In his late 40s, he pivoted to politics, branding himself as an outsider who would "drain the swamp." His speeches—delivered in a booming voice tinged with both Scottish grit and German precision—struck a chord with disillusioned voters. He promised to restore America to greatness, vowing to crush corruption even as he embodied it.

His opponents underestimated him. They mocked his lack of experience and dredged up his criminal past, but Mac used it to his advantage. “I’ve played the game they rigged,” he declared at rallies. “Now I’m going to break it wide open for you.”

To the shock of the political establishment, Mac Schäfer was elected president in a landslide.

Once in office, Mac quickly consolidated power. He surrounded himself with loyalists, silenced critics, and rewrote rules to suit his agenda. Policies favored his business empire, foreign deals lined his pockets, and opponents mysteriously vanished from the political stage. Whistleblowers faced relentless smear campaigns, and journalists who questioned him were branded enemies of the people.

For a time, it seemed Mac was untouchable. His approval ratings remained high among his base, who saw him as a fearless leader fighting for them. But cracks began to show. An investigative journalist uncovered a secret bank account tied to bribes from foreign governments. A whistleblower revealed recordings of Mac openly discussing plans to rig the next election.

The final blow came when his former chief of staff, tired of being scapegoated, testified before Congress, providing irrefutable evidence of Mac’s illegal activities. The evidence was damning: wire transfers, recorded conversations, and a paper trail leading directly to the Oval Office.

As impeachment proceedings began, Mac lashed out, claiming he was the victim of a conspiracy. His fiery rhetoric, once a source of his strength, now alienated even his closest allies. Protests erupted across the nation, and his approval ratings plummeted.

When the Senate voted to convict, Mac became the first president in American history to be removed from office.

Disgraced and facing multiple criminal charges, Mac Schäfer retreated to his private estate in Scotland, where he lived in self-imposed exile. From time to time, he would release statements insisting he had been wronged, still clinging to the illusion of his innocence.

But the world had moved on, and Mac Schäfer became a cautionary tale—a reminder that even the most cunning rise can end in ruin when built on lies, greed, and corruption.

[dubaicompanys]

VAT and Taxation Policies for Businesses in Dubai: A Comprehensive Guide

Dubai, along with the rest of the UAE, implemented VAT on January 1, 2018, marking a significant shift in the region’s tax landscape. VAT is a consumption-based tax levied on goods and services at each stage of production or distribution. It is charged to the consumer, and businesses collect it on behalf of the government.

The introduction of VAT is a part of the UAE's diversification strategy to reduce its dependence on oil revenue and increase its non-oil income. The standard VAT rate in Dubai is 5%, which is one of the lowest globally. However, certain goods and services are exempt from VAT, while others are zero-rated.

Key Features of VAT in Dubai

VAT Registration: Any business with taxable supplies exceeding AED 375,000 annually is required to register for VAT with the Federal Tax Authority (FTA). Smaller businesses with taxable supplies between AED 187,500 and AED 375,000 can voluntarily register for VAT.

Taxable Supplies and Exemptions: VAT applies to most goods and services in Dubai, including real estate transactions, retail sales, and professional services. However, essential goods such as healthcare, education, and certain financial services are exempt from VAT. Additionally, exports and international services are zero-rated, meaning they are subject to a 0% VAT.

Invoicing and Documentation: Businesses are required to issue tax invoices for all taxable transactions, detailing the VAT charged. Proper record-keeping is vital for VAT compliance, as businesses need to submit periodic tax returns to the FTA.

Filing VAT Returns: Businesses must file VAT returns quarterly or annually, depending on their turnover. These returns should detail the VAT collected on sales (output tax) and the VAT paid on purchases (input tax). The difference is either paid to or refunded by the government.

Penalties for Non-Compliance: Failure to comply with VAT regulations can lead to hefty penalties, ranging from fines for late registration to higher penalties for incorrect filings or failure to maintain proper records. Therefore, staying up to date with VAT obligations is essential for businesses in Dubai.

[bllsbailey]

'The CIA Must Get Involved': Trump's Midnight Missives on X Signal a Return to Form

In the early hours of Friday morning, President-elect Donald Trump returned to a familiar antic many Americans remember well: the flurry of midnight posts on X, formerly Twitter, that dominated the platform during his presidency. For the first time since his reinstatement on the platform, Trump served up rapid-fire commentary, unfiltered and unmistakably his, setting the stage for a new chapter in his political saga.

POTUS Purged

Trump’s departure from then-Twitter came in 2021, following the events at the Capitol on January 6th. The platform permanently suspended his account, citing the alleged risk of further incitement of violence.

Twitter wrote in a statement:

After close review of recent Tweets from the @realDonaldTrump account and the context around them — specifically how they are being received and interpreted on and off Twitter — we have permanently suspended the account due to the risk of further incitement of violence," 

For Trump, this was a yuge blow, as Twitter had been his primary tool for communicating directly with the American public and bypassing mainstream media, which he infamously labeled "fake news."

The Turn to Truth

In response to his de-platforming, Trump invested in creating Truth Social, a platform designed as an alternative for conservative voices. Truth Social was meant to be a refuge for free speech and a way for Trump to maintain his direct line of communication with his supporters. While the platform gained traction among his base, its reach and impact never fully matched the global stage that Twitter provided.

Musk’s Maneuver and Don's Defiance

In late 2022, Elon Musk reinstated Trump’s Twitter account after purchasing the platform and implementing sweeping changes to its content moderation policies. Despite his account being active, Trump initially refrained from posting, focusing instead on Truth Social.

On July 23, 2023, Musk officially rebranded Twitter to X, declaring it "the everything app." Trump resumed posting on X, formerly Twitter, on August 24 of the same year. 

His first post after being reinstated featured his now-famous mugshot taken during his arrest in Fulton County, Georgia. The post has 333 million views to date. 

The image read:

“MUG SHOT - AUGUST 24, 2023, ELECTION INTERFERENCE, NEVER SURRENDER!” 

Following this dramatic re-entry, Trump’s posts began ramping up ahead of the 2024 election season. However, his Friday midnight tirade brings back a dynamic that had been absent for nearly three years.

The Return of Rapid-fire Rhetoric

Publishing four separate posts in the span of two minutes, Trump addressed everything from tariffs to terrorism and the national intelligence agencies. 

In his first post of the series, he wrote:

The Tariffs, and Tariffs alone, created this vast wealth for our Country. Then we switched over to Income Tax. We were never so wealthy as during this period. Tariffs will pay off our debt and, MAKE AMERICA WEALTHY AGAIN!

Next, he turned his attention to President Joe Biden and the impacts of his immigration policies, linking them to terrorism. 

Trump wrote:

With the Biden “Open Border’s Policy” I said, many times during Rallies, and elsewhere, that Radical Islamic Terrorism, and other forms of violent crime, will become so bad in America that it will become hard to even imagine or believe. That time has come, only worse than ever imagined.  Joe Biden is the WORST PRESIDENT IN THE HISTORY OF AMERICA, A COMPLETE AND TOTAL DISASTER. What he and his group of Election Interfering “thugs” have done to our Country will not soon be forgotten! MAGA

In a separate post, Trump accused the Justice Department, FBI, and Democratic prosecutors of prioritizing attacks on him over protecting Americans. 

Trump called for an immediate CIA intervention, writing:

Our Country is a disaster, a laughing stock all over the World! This is what happens when you have OPEN BORDERS, with weak, ineffective, and virtually nonexistent leadership.  The DOJ, FBI, and Democrat state and local prosecutors have not done their job. They are incompetent and corrupt, having spent all of their waking hours unlawfully attacking their political opponent, ME, rather than focusing on protecting Americans from the outside and inside violent SCUM that has infiltrated all aspects of our government, and our Nation itself. Democrats should be ashamed of themselves for allowing this to happen to our Country.  The CIA must get involved, NOW, before it is too late. The USA is breaking down - A violent erosion of Safety, National Security, and Democracy is taking place all across our Nation. Only strength and powerful leadership will stop it. See you on January 20th. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!

The incoming president finished the rapid-fire session by writing, "TRUMP WAS RIGHT ABOUT EVERYTHING!"

As the final days of Joe Biden's presidency drag on, the nation's news headlines paint a grim picture—from violent and deadly crimes on the NYC subway system to a mass casualty New Year’s Eve attack in New Orleans. 

Trump’s midnight missives aren’t just a throwback—they’re a preview. With caps-locked declarations and biting critiques, he’s firing up his base and signaling a return to the bold leadership style that defined his presidency. 

For Trump and his supporters, January 20 can’t arrive fast enough.