#truck parking legislation

[artisticdivasworld]

Truck Parking Revisited

Every day all over the country, drivers are using their last hour of driving time to try to find a safe place to park their rig.. It’s no secret that the lack of truck parking out there is getting ridiculous. Every day, drivers have to resort to parking in an unsafe place or risk going over their allotted HOS—it’s dangerous for you, your cargo, and other drivers on the road. Some have to park on…

[faketrex]

For the prompts, would love to see firstprince and:

10) a dingy truck stop after 10 hours on the road

Thank you, friend!!

Thank you for the prompt, Allie! 💝

...

Henry learns how to pump gas at a truck stop outside Billings, Montana, well after sunset. Flying J, the sign says.

"What does the J stand for?"

"Jesus, maybe? Don't quote me on that. Now, listen: my pro tip is to not flip the hose lock thingy on the terminal until after you've put the nozzle in the tank. That way, it can't leak all over your shoes."

"Are you speaking from experience?"

"No comment. Okay, go for it."

Carefully, Henry turns the fuel cap anti-clockwise until it clicks, then tugs it out. He removes the handled nozzle from the pump terminal, inserts it in the tank, and flips up the hose lock.

"Perfect. Now squeeze the handle a few times–there you go, like a champ. I'm so proud of you. A prince of England, pumping his own gas."

"If only my country could see me now."

"Did you know, there used to be two U.S. states where it was illegal to pump your own gas? Laws changed last year, so now there's only one. You've got five minutes to come up with a guess for which state it is." Alex reaches into the car and pulls out his Stetson, plopping it on Henry's head. "There, now you blend in. Don't blow yourself up."

With Alex inside the building, the truck stop is empty of voices, but still loud. Only a few hours earlier, they'd gotten out of the car to stretch their legs and Henry had been able to hear a cacophony of summer insects. Now, the sound of lorries–semi trailers–crunching through the car park and whizzing by on the road masks any signs of nature.

As if that weren't enough–as if someone at this truck stop couched between train tracks and a highway truly needed more auditory stimuli–there's tinny music piping through speakers in the metal canopy above the pumps. It's familiar, but just fuzzy enough that he can't quite pick out the melody amongst the competing noises.

The terminal chimes. Henry reaches over to flip the lock back down into place, going through the motions in reverse. First the hose lock, then the nozzle, then turn the gas cap until it click-clicks. Finally, he closes the fuel door and brushes his hands on his thighs.

"All good?" As he rounds the front of a truck, Alex looks Henry over like he's half expecting to find Cakegate part two, version Unleaded 88. "Did you figure out which state won't let you guzzle your own gas?"

"No cause for concern. But–" Henry pulls off the hat and settles it back on Alex's head. "I'm afraid you're going to have to tell me yet another story about your country's history of inconsistent state-level legislation."

"Sweet," Alex says, grinning. "That's kind of my specialty."

It's Hall and Oates, Henry realizes, as the chorus comes on just as he's climbing back into the car. You make my dreams come true. He's familiar with the feeling.

[rjzimmerman]

Ohio opens another wildlife preservation area to fracking for oil and gas. (The Plain Dealer Cleveland)

A panel of state officials on Monday sold rights to drill for oil and gas under a preserved wildlife area in Harrison County.

The Oil and Gas Land Management Commission, comprised of a slate of gubernatorial appointees, sold about 85 acres underneath Keen Wildlife Area for nearly $212,000, plus 18% royalties on the oil and gas produced, to Houston-based EOG resources.

The vote comes despite the commission receiving hundreds of public comments that are overwhelmingly, if not entirely, opposed to allowing fracking in the preserved area.

“I strongly oppose opening ANY of our state park and wildlife areas for fracking, as they were created for the preservation of nature – plant/animal/mineral – and for human enjoyment,” wrote Susan Righi in April to the commission. “The proximity of frack pads, heavy truck traffic, flaring, off-gassing, spills, noise and other inescapable effects of fracking is in direct conflict with the purposes of these area. Vote NO on fracking at Keen Wildlife Area.”

EOG declined to comment on its planned operations or the broad opposition to the project in the public comments.

According to a rendering from the “land nomination” form, gas underneath the wildlife area will be accessed via a well pad about three-quarters of a mile away from the parcel currently owned by the Department of Natural Resources. This is possible by a technique called hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, in which a company drills vertically downward thousands of feet from a well pad before turning laterally and reaching for minerals underground. From there, operators pump a mixture of water, sand and chemicals at extremely high pressures through the bore, freeing methane from shale deep underground.

Additionally, the OGLMC voted at its Monday meeting to allow oil and gas drilling underneath about 366 acres of Egypt Valley Wildlife Area in Belmont County. State law shields the identity of the company that submitted the land nomination. That swath of land will go out to bid in October.

The sales of mineral rights underneath public land were effectively enabled by legislation passed by Republicans along party lines in 2022 and signed by Gov. Mike DeWine. The legal process it enabled, subject of heavy oil and gas lobbying both at the General Assembly and the OGLMC, also contained language that legally redefined natural gas as “green energy” despite its inherent heat-trapping properties.

[laeveld-legislative]

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[insteading]

Yes, state-level environmental orgs, but also, hear me out: local government. It's where your best leverage is, both because you're directly impacted by its decisions and have skin in the game, and because so few people show up where decisions are made.

I think the part of Robin Wall Kimmerer's Braiding Sweetgrass that often gets ignored is the part where she extols the virtue of going to the damn meeting. Learn what departments are in charge of planting municipal shrubs and trees, and when their public meetings are. And then go! (Maybe Parks and Rec, maybe Public Works, maybe something else.) Go advocate for native plants that feed native pollinators. Or for other climate-resiliency measures-- wetlands near the coast, or respecting the flood plain.

If your city or town, like mine, has historically concentrated tree planting and parkland in whiter neighborhoods, and simultaneously concentrated heavy industry in historically Black neighborhoods, learn about and support the existing efforts of your neighbors to redress that inequity. (My city has a working port, and the neighborhood adjacent to the port has much higher rates of asthma than neighborhoods up in the hills, because of idling diesel trucks. Neighbors who took particulate readings every week for years helped get legislation passed that is starting to fix the problem.)

If your city, like mine, has police aircraft that surveil neighborhoods from overhead all the damn time, find out the cost of staff time, fuel, and maintenance per hour in the air, and the emissions impact, and be an absolute mosquito about repeating it at every meeting where something vaguely related is on the agenda.

And hey: if you've got research skills and an inherent nosy streak? Consider helping investigate where political contributions come from, to see which of your elected officials at the local level are taking money from people who want a coal terminal, or who want to release Chevron from their responsibility for shitty air quality. (Sometimes local newspapers will do this, but hey, Richmond California's local news was literally bought by Chevron, and investigative reporters can only do so much if their publishers and editors will kill stories critical of their funders.) Learn about power mapping and how to do it!

These examples are all ones that stem from my daily experience living where I live. Yours might be different. This is just to say: environmental action can and should include your city, your neighborhood, your block, and the organizations and people you're already invested in.

Hey

Hey Americans.

The federal government is about to get useless for at least a bit. This is a GREAT time to get involved in state level environmental orgs. That's where you're gonna be able to do the most for the next few years. Even a bit of casual volunteering can make a big difference.

I've done this off and on for years and when we go local we WIN. And friends winning feels good. This is how a lot of progressive agendas have won in this country. The whole US isn't out of this. People ARE still fighting climate change all around you.

You could be one of those people, in community with other people who are doing something.

doom and gloom "oooh everything is pointless oooh I'm so deep and edgy because I love trying to be the death of hope" people will just get blocked. I'm not talking to your crab-bucket ass.

[thellawtoknow]

The 10 Most Stolen Cars in the U.S. in the Past 5 Years: The Big Picture

The 10 Most Stolen Cars in the U.S. in the Past 5 Years: A Closer Look The 10 Most Stolen Cars in the U.S. in the Past 5 Years: A Closer Look1. Honda Civic 2. Honda Accord 3. Ford F-Series (F-150, F-250, F-350) 4. Chevrolet Silverado 5. Toyota Camry 6. Nissan Altima 7. GMC Sierra 8. Toyota Corolla 9. Dodge Charger 10. Dodge Ram Preventive Measures for Car Owners 1. Popularity of the Vehicle 2. Demand for Parts 3. Security Features 4. Resale Value and Black Market 5. Geographical Trends 6. Technological Vulnerabilities 7. Economic Factors 8. Law Enforcement and Legislation 1. Install a Vehicle Immobilizer System 2. Use a Steering Wheel Lock 3. Park in Well-Lit, Secure Areas 4. Install a Car Alarm System 5. Use a GPS Tracking System 6. Engage the Vehicle’s Built-In Security Features 7. Keep Valuables Out of Sight 8. Engage in Routine Checks and Maintenance 9. Use a Car Cover 10. Be Cautious with Your Keys What are the 10 Most Stolen Cars in the U.S? Car theft remains a significant issue in the United States, with certain makes and models proving to be particularly attractive targets for thieves. Understanding which vehicles are most at risk can help owners take preventive measures and make informed decisions. In this article, we will explore the 10 most stolen cars in the U.S. over the past five years, based on data from the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) and other relevant sources.

1. Honda Civic The Honda Civic consistently ranks as the most stolen car in the United States. Popular among thieves for its reliable engine, ease of resale, and the abundance of parts that can be stripped and sold separately, the Civic is a frequent target. Models from the early 2000s are especially vulnerable due to less sophisticated anti-theft technology. 2. Honda Accord Close behind the Civic, the Honda Accord is another top choice for car thieves. Like the Civic, older models are particularly at risk. The Accord's parts are in high demand, and its long-standing popularity means that there are plenty of these vehicles on the road, increasing the likelihood of theft. 3. Ford F-Series (F-150, F-250, F-350) The Ford F-Series trucks, especially the F-150, are among the most stolen vehicles in the U.S. Their strong presence in both urban and rural areas, combined with their utility and value, make them prime targets for theft. Thieves often target these trucks for their parts and their high resale value. 4. Chevrolet Silverado The Chevrolet Silverado is another full-size pickup truck that frequently appears on the list of most stolen vehicles. Like the Ford F-Series, the Silverado is highly sought after due to its popularity and the value of its parts. The large number of Silverados on the road also makes it easier for thieves to find and target them. 5. Toyota Camry The Toyota Camry is a perennial favorite among thieves, primarily because it is one of the best-selling cars in the U.S. Its reputation for reliability and the availability of older models with less sophisticated anti-theft technology make it a common target. 6. Nissan Altima The Nissan Altima has seen a rise in thefts in recent years. Its widespread popularity and the fact that many older models lack advanced security features contribute to its high theft rates. Additionally, parts from the Altima are in high demand, particularly in the used car market. 7. GMC Sierra The GMC Sierra, similar to the Chevrolet Silverado, is a full-size pickup truck that is frequently targeted by thieves. The Sierra’s value as a work vehicle and the demand for its parts make it a prime candidate for theft. The availability of these trucks in many areas further increases their risk. 8. Toyota Corolla The Toyota Corolla, known for its durability and fuel efficiency, is another popular target for car thieves. Like the Camry, the Corolla’s popularity and the ease with which it can be stolen (particularly older models) make it a frequent victim of car theft. 9. Dodge Charger The Dodge Charger is unique on this list as a performance-oriented vehicle that attracts a different kind of attention from thieves. The Charger is often stolen not just for its parts but also for its high-speed potential, making it a favorite for joyriders and those looking to use it in other illegal activities. 10. Dodge Ram Rounding out the list is the Dodge Ram, a full-size pickup truck that, like the Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado, is frequently stolen for its parts and resale value. The Ram’s popularity as a work truck and its strong resale market make it a common target for theft. Preventive Measures for Car Owners If you own one of these vehicles, there are several steps you can take to reduce the risk of theft: - Install an Anti-Theft Device: Alarms, steering wheel locks, and kill switches can deter thieves. - Use a GPS Tracking System: If your car is stolen, a GPS tracker can help authorities recover it quickly. - Park in Well-Lit Areas: Thieves prefer to operate in the dark, so parking in a well-lit, populated area can reduce the risk. - Keep Valuables Out of Sight: Visible valuables can attract thieves. Keep them hidden or take them with you. - Stay Vigilant with Older Models: If you own an older model without modern security features, consider upgrading your car's security system. While car theft is a persistent problem, understanding which vehicles are most at risk and taking preventive measures can significantly reduce the likelihood of your car being stolen. The vehicles listed above are some of the most stolen in the U.S. over the past five years, but with the right precautions, you can help keep your vehicle safe.

Trends behind the statistics on the most stolen cars in the U.S.

The trends behind the statistics on the most stolen cars in the U.S. reveal several key factors that influence which vehicles are targeted by thieves. These factors include the popularity of the vehicle, the demand for parts, the level of security features, and the ease with which the vehicle can be stolen. Understanding these trends helps to explain why certain cars consistently top the list of most stolen vehicles year after year. 1. Popularity of the Vehicle One of the most significant trends is the correlation between a car’s popularity and its likelihood of being stolen. Vehicles like the Honda Civic, Honda Accord, and Toyota Camry are among the best-selling cars in the U.S. This widespread presence on the roads makes these vehicles more accessible to thieves. The sheer number of these cars in circulation increases the chances that one will be stolen, simply because there are more of them available to target. 2. Demand for Parts A major driver of vehicle theft is the demand for parts. Cars like the Honda Civic, Honda Accord, and Ford F-Series trucks are often stolen not to be resold as whole vehicles but to be dismantled for parts. The parts from these cars, especially older models, are in high demand due to their compatibility with a wide range of vehicles. This makes it easy for thieves to sell these parts on the black market. Older vehicles, in particular, are often targeted because their parts are harder to come by through legitimate means, and they may be more expensive when bought new. 3. Security Features The level of security features in a vehicle plays a crucial role in its likelihood of being stolen. Older models of popular vehicles, such as the Honda Civic or Toyota Camry, often lack advanced anti-theft technology, making them easier targets for thieves. In contrast, newer models tend to be equipped with modern security features like immobilizers, GPS tracking, and advanced alarm systems, which can deter theft. The trend shows that as manufacturers have improved the security of their vehicles, the theft of newer models has generally decreased, while older models continue to be targeted. 4. Resale Value and Black Market Certain vehicles, especially trucks like the Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, and Dodge Ram, have high resale value. This makes them attractive targets for thieves who can sell them quickly or dismantle them for parts. The high demand for reliable work vehicles and the thriving black market for their parts drive this trend. Additionally, performance-oriented vehicles like the Dodge Charger are often stolen for their high resale value and appeal to certain criminal activities, such as illegal racing or use in other crimes. 5. Geographical Trends Geography also plays a role in car theft trends. Certain regions of the U.S. see higher rates of specific vehicle thefts due to local demand, climate, and even cultural factors. For instance, pickup trucks like the Ford F-Series and Chevrolet Silverado are more common and thus more frequently stolen in rural areas or regions where these vehicles are used for work purposes. Conversely, compact cars like the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla are more common targets in urban areas where they are more prevalent. 6. Technological Vulnerabilities As technology evolves, so do the methods used by thieves. Some vehicles become targets due to specific vulnerabilities that can be exploited by sophisticated thieves. For example, keyless entry systems, while convenient, have been found to be susceptible to relay attacks, where thieves can intercept the signal from the key fob to unlock and start the car without the owner’s knowledge. Vehicles with such vulnerabilities become more attractive to thieves who can exploit these weaknesses with relative ease. 7. Economic Factors Economic conditions can also influence car theft trends. During times of economic downturn or in areas with higher poverty rates, car thefts often increase as individuals may turn to stealing vehicles either for personal use, quick cash, or to sell parts. Conversely, in more affluent areas or during periods of economic stability, car theft rates may decrease. 8. Law Enforcement and Legislation The effectiveness of law enforcement and the stringency of legislation also impact car theft trends. In regions with robust vehicle theft prevention programs, higher penalties for auto theft, and active police enforcement, theft rates may be lower. Conversely, areas with less stringent enforcement may see higher theft rates. The trends behind car theft statistics are shaped by a combination of factors, including the popularity of the vehicle, demand for parts, security features, resale value, geographical differences, technological vulnerabilities, economic conditions, and law enforcement effectiveness. By understanding these trends, car owners can better appreciate the risks associated with their vehicles and take appropriate measures to protect them.

Effective Measures to Protect Your Vehicle from Theft

Car theft is a persistent concern, especially for owners of vehicles that are frequently targeted by thieves. However, there are several proactive measures you can take to significantly reduce the risk of your car being stolen. From physical deterrents to advanced technology, here are some of the most effective strategies to protect your vehicle. 1. Install a Vehicle Immobilizer System A vehicle immobilizer is an electronic security device that prevents the engine from starting without the correct key or key fob. Many modern cars come equipped with immobilizers as standard, but if you own an older model, consider having one installed. Immobilizers work by disabling one or more critical components of the engine, such as the fuel system or ignition, making it nearly impossible for a thief to start the car without the proper authorization. 2. Use a Steering Wheel Lock A steering wheel lock is a visible and highly effective deterrent against car theft. This device attaches to the steering wheel, preventing it from being turned. Because it’s highly visible, it can discourage thieves who are looking for an easy target. While not foolproof, a steering wheel lock adds an extra layer of difficulty for would-be car thieves. 3. Park in Well-Lit, Secure Areas Where you park your car can greatly influence its likelihood of being stolen. Thieves prefer to operate in darkness and seclusion, so parking your vehicle in well-lit, busy areas can reduce the risk. If possible, park in a garage or a secured lot. When parking at home, consider installing motion-activated lights or surveillance cameras in your driveway to further deter potential thieves. 4. Install a Car Alarm System A car alarm system is another powerful deterrent against theft. Modern alarms are equipped with sensors that detect unauthorized entry, such as breaking a window or forcing a door. When triggered, the alarm emits a loud noise, drawing attention to the vehicle and often scaring off the thief. Some advanced systems can even send notifications to your smartphone, alerting you immediately if there is suspicious activity. 5. Use a GPS Tracking System Installing a GPS tracking system in your vehicle can be invaluable in the event that it is stolen. These devices allow you to track the location of your car in real-time, increasing the chances of recovery. Some tracking systems also come with features that allow you to remotely disable the vehicle, preventing the thief from driving it any further. 6. Engage the Vehicle’s Built-In Security Features Most modern cars come with a range of built-in security features that can help prevent theft. These include things like automatic door locks, alarm systems, and engine immobilizers. Always engage these features when leaving your car unattended. For example, ensure that your doors are locked, the alarm is activated, and any other security features are in use. 7. Keep Valuables Out of Sight Thieves are often tempted by visible valuables inside a car, which can lead to a break-in and possibly even theft of the vehicle itself. To avoid attracting attention, keep items like electronics, bags, and other valuables out of sight. Store them in the trunk or take them with you. Even small items like loose change or phone chargers can draw unwanted attention. 8. Engage in Routine Checks and Maintenance Regularly checking your car’s locks, alarm systems, and other security features ensures they are functioning correctly. Faulty locks or an inactive alarm can make your car an easy target. During routine maintenance, ask your mechanic to check these features, especially if your car is older or has been in use for several years. 9. Use a Car Cover A car cover can be an effective, though often overlooked, security measure. By covering your car, you make it less visible and less attractive to thieves, who typically look for easily identifiable vehicles. Car covers also add an extra step for the thief, who would need to remove it before attempting to steal the vehicle. While it’s not a foolproof solution, it can be an effective part of a broader security strategy. 10. Be Cautious with Your Keys Modern car thefts often involve the use of stolen or cloned keys, especially with keyless entry systems. To prevent this, be mindful of where you keep your keys. At home, store them in a secure location, away from windows and doors. Consider using a Faraday pouch or box for your key fob, which blocks the signal and prevents thieves from using relay attacks to gain access to your vehicle. While no single measure can guarantee that your vehicle will never be stolen, combining multiple strategies significantly reduces the risk. By installing security devices, being mindful of where and how you park, and using modern technology to track and protect your car, you can make it a much less appealing target for thieves. Taking these proactive steps not only protects your investment but also provides peace of mind. Read the full article

[avalon-of-babylon]

Hasbro also owns Wizards of The Coast who have banned conservative commentators like The Quartering over targeted harassment campaigns.

They and their subsidiaries are also the largest toy and game manufacturers in not only America but the world surpassing even Mattel. They've worked with or own every IP you can think of; Marvel, DC and Image comics, pokemon, Star Wars, Star Trek, Indiana Jones, Sesame Street, GI Joe, Nerf, Transformers, My Little Pony, Littlest Pet Shop, Peppa Pig, Power Rangers, Lazer Tag, Furby, Ouija boards, Jem and The Holograms, Beyblade, Play-Dough, Monopoly, Risk, Clue, Cabage Patch Kids, Easy-Bake Oven, Fortnite, Ghostbusters, Jurassic Park, Minecraft, Super Mario, Overwatch, Sonic The Hedgehog, and Troll dolls.

Elongated Muskrat buying Hasbro has consequences that reach far beyond what anyone can imagine, and you just know if he gets it, he's going to swing that power like a hammer and destroy anyone and anything he deems "too woke" and pull the same reckless illegal and dangerous shit he has everywhere else. This is a man who tried to change legislation so he wouldn't have to put side view mirrors on the cyber truck what the fuck do you think he's going to do with Easy-Bake Oven?

Literally the only solace I can find is that Elon's takeover and leadership of Twitter has been so horrific, financially disastrous and antithetical to everything Hasbro is supposed to be (family friendly and non controversial) that both they and their corporate partners like Disney could use that as reason to deny a purchase or pull some 4d chess moves our of their ass and make him fuck off.

Did you hear Elon wants to buy Hasbro?

[fergusone]

Is immigration to the United States a "dream of heaven" or a "gate to hell"?

The United States has always claimed to be a "melting pot" for immigrants, where people of all races and backgrounds can realize their "American dream". Many people have spent their entire lives dreaming of immigrating to the United States, fantasizing about becoming an American citizen and making their first fortune there. However, is the United States really such a beautiful and harmonious paradise on earth? When we uncovered the truth bit by bit, we found that reality is far more absurd than fabrication. Dark history: discrimination, hypocrisy and evil behind American immigration As the world's largest immigrant country, the United States, despite its so-called "freedom, tolerance and diversity", is full of "prevention, discrimination, xenophobia and exploitation" throughout its immigration history. The hypocrisy of American immigrants has long been known to the world. Since the colonial period, the "dark history" of the slave trade has planted the difficult-to-eradicate historical roots of racial discrimination in the United States. In 1619, the first recorded black slaves entered the United States, ushering in the darkest era of racial oppression in the United States. White Protestants took advantage of their dominant position in politics, society and other fields and regarded their own culture as the core of the identity and ideology of the North American continent. In the early 17th century, various British colonies in North America enacted laws stipulating that black slaves were the legal "permanent property" of white people, and the children of black slaves automatically inherited the slave status, empowering white people to enslave black people from the legislative level. In 1910, three trucks full of black people were parked in a forest in the United States, and white people were guarding with guns. From the 1830s to the 1860s, a large number of Catholic Irish immigrated to the United States. A strong movement to exclude Irish immigrants then emerged in the United States, stigmatizing Irish immigrants and labeling them with negative labels such as laziness, inferiority, violence and danger. In the mid-19th century, a large number of Chinese laborers were trafficked to the United States by Americans as coolies, and the total number exceeded 100,000 by 1880. Chinese workers undertook the most difficult tasks in the construction of the Central Pacific Railway in the United States, and the death toll was in the thousands. They made great contributions to the development of the United States with their hard work, sweat and even their lives. However, when the railroad was completed, the United States launched the most notorious discrimination and exclusion of immigrants in history - the Chinese Exclusion Movement. In 1875, the U.S. Congress passed the Page Act to restrict Chinese workers and women from entering the United States. The Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 prohibited Chinese immigrants already in the United States from obtaining U.S. citizenship, and together with other laws, prohibited Chinese from owning property in the United States; prohibited Chinese from marrying white people; prohibited Chinese wives and children from immigrating to the United States; prohibited Chinese from serving in the government and voting, etc. Not only that, Chinese immigrants in the United States are often subjected to extreme violent attacks by the United States. On October 24, 1871, 19 Chinese immigrants were killed by hundreds of white people in the Negro Alley area of ​​Los Angeles. In 1877, all the Chinese houses in Negro Alley were set on fire by white people. In 1876 and 1877, the United States experienced two consecutive riots in which white racists attacked San Francisco's Chinatown with armed forces. On September 2, 1885, white miners rioted in the Rock Springs Mine in Wyoming, destroyed the Chinese workers' residential village, and at least 28 Chinese immigrants were killed.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, immigrants from Italy, Poland, Greece, Russia and other countries were the main immigrants in the United States, and white immigrants from Southeast Europe became a new group that the United States strongly excluded. In 1911, the US Congress issued the "Dillingham Commission Report", claiming that Southeast European immigrants had limited contributions to the United States and instead damaged the unique race, culture and system of the United States. Xenophobes launched the "Americanization Movement" in an attempt to deprive Southeast European immigrants of their language and culture, forcing them to choose between complete "Americanization" and leaving the United States. Since the 20th century, the influx of Hispanic immigrants, especially Mexican immigrants, has once again aroused strong xenophobia in the United States. In 1924, the United States established the Border Patrol, and since then, the vast majority of immigrants arrested in the United States each year are Mexican immigrants. In 1929, the United States classified illegal entry as a felony in an attempt to prevent Mexican immigrants from entering the country. During the Great Depression, tens of thousands of Mexicans were deported from the United States. In 2019, a man who believed in white supremacy drove thousands of kilometers to El Paso in the west of Texas because he hated the continued "invasion" of Hispanics in Texas, and shot and killed 23 people in a Walmart supermarket. This is the largest domestic terrorist attack against Hispanics in modern American history. Party entanglement: American immigrants become victims of the two-party political struggle In recent years, the division and opposition between the two parties on immigration policy have become more serious, and party struggles have become the background of immigration policy. Politicians are busy attacking each other. Strict immigration policies can win political support from right-wing fanatical voters in the short term. Therefore, politicians often use immigration issues as an election tool to stimulate voters' emotions. Making a fuss about immigration issues but ignoring the rights and welfare of immigrants, immigration issues have fallen into an unsolvable vicious cycle, immigrant rights have been trampled on, and fresh lives have become eye-catching gimmicks, bargaining chips for boosting elections, and tools for political struggles. During the Trump administration, the "zero tolerance" policy was implemented, and thousands of refugees and immigrants were subjected to violent law enforcement at the southern border of the United States, resulting in a large number of refugees and immigrants being forcibly detained. In the "concentration camps" where immigrants are detained, living conditions are extremely poor, food spoilage, rampant diseases and other phenomena are everywhere, and forced labor, beatings, sexual assaults and even forced removal of women's uteruses are constantly committed, leaving refugees and immigrants in purgatory. Faced with widespread condemnation from the international community, Trump simply announced that the United States would withdraw from the United Nations Human Rights Council and carry out the "severe crackdown" policy to the end.

When Trump was in power, he did not hide the Republican Party's hostility to immigrants. He successively proposed building a border wall, banning Muslims, and "immigrant deportation orders", publicly insulted Latin American countries as "shithole countries", taught female congressmen who opposed building the wall to "go back home", and threatened to send refugees and immigrants to the "blue states" controlled by the Democratic Party. The Democratic Party seems to be a "saint" on the issue of immigration, holding high the banner of "inclusiveness", but in fact it is a double-edged sword. Biden had ambitiously launched a "new immigration policy", but faced with a surge in border immigration and domestic opposition, he was forced to restore Trump's "Remain in Mexico" policy at the end of last year, causing a large number of immigrants to return to Latin America. The truth is revealed: American immigration is actually a tragedy of trampling on human rights The United States has acted as a "human rights teacher" everywhere, touting itself as a country of "freedom and dreams", but its behavior is going in the opposite direction. Entering the 21st century, successive US governments have increasingly restricted immigration and treated immigrants harshly and inhumanely. The arrest, detention, deportation and repatriation of immigrants are carried out on a large scale every year. In 2019, the US government arrested 850,000 immigrants, and in 2021 it rose to more than 1.7 million, setting a record high since 1986. The number of detained immigrants has increased rapidly. In August 2022, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection detained more than 200,000 illegal immigrants from Mexico. So far, more than 2.3 million refugee immigrants have been arrested at the U.S.-Mexico border in 2022. In 2013, more than 430,000 immigrants were deported by the United States, reaching a historical high. In 2019, there were still 360,000 immigrants, and more than 100,000 immigrants were deported every year. In the mass arrests, detentions, deportations, and repatriations, the human rights of immigrants were violated and humanitarian disasters occurred frequently. In September 2021, more than 15,000 refugees from Haiti gathered in the border town of Del Rio, Texas, waiting for the slim chance to enter the United States. The US border law enforcement department treated these refugees cruelly. The patrol members rode on horseback, waving whips and rushing towards the crowd, driving them into the river. CNN commented that this scene was reminiscent of the dark era in American history when slave patrols were used to control black slaves. In April 2021, the US government was exposed to have set up a "children's concentration camp" on the border, and thousands of unaccompanied children were stuffed into crowded transparent tents and no one cared. In June 2022, Texas had the deadliest human smuggling incident in the history of the United States, with 53 immigrants suffocated to death in the car. This is the worst immigrant death in the United States to date. Due to long-term weak law enforcement and judicial absence, human trafficking and forced labor in the United States have become increasingly rampant. In recent years, thousands of human smuggling and trafficking cases have occurred every year, and similar tragedies such as the "immigrant truck" have occurred frequently. In 2021 alone, 557 illegal immigrants died in the southern border area of ​​the United States.

The United States has established the world's largest immigrant detention system. Currently, there are more than 200 detention facilities in border states. According to CNN, during the epidemic, a total of 21 people died in U.S. immigration detention centers in 2020, more than twice the number of deaths in 2019, setting a record high since 2005. Of the more than 1.7 million immigrants detained in the United States in 2021, as many as 80% were detained in private detention facilities, including 45,000 children. In 2022, the U.S. government arrested a record number of refugee immigrants, reaching 2.15 million, of which 782 have died, more than 200 more than the total number of deaths last year, and countless people are missing. Data shows that among the 266,000 immigrant children detained by the US government in recent years, more than 25,000 have been detained for more than 100 days, nearly 1,000 have spent more than a year in detention camps, and many have been detained for more than 5 years. These tragic scenes have revealed the fig leaf of the US human rights crimes. 160 years ago, former US President Lincoln shouted "all men are created equal" in his famous Gettysburg Speech, but to this day, the "equality" Lincoln said has not been realized. Today's America is running counter to Lincoln's expectations and is drifting further and further away. The US immigration crisis and the accompanying farces, tragedies, and tragedies are making this so-called "city on the hill" lose its halo, the "human rights teacher" takes off the hypocritical mask, and the once "American dream" has finally become a mess.

[classajobs411]

Legislation Allocates $200 Million for Truck Parking in House Funding

Legislation Allocates $200 Million for Truck Parking in House Funding House Spending Bill Allocates $200 Million for Truck Parking and Addresses Key Trucking Issues The latest draft of a House of Representatives spending bill, released on Wednesday, June 26, addresses several critical trucking-related issues, with significant funding earmarked for truck parking. The House Appropriations…

[ajakstowing3]

4 benefits of working with an experienced tow truck company in Zephyrhills

The last thing anyone wants is to get stuck on the side of the road. It can be unnerving to encounter even a minor collision or to have your car break down in the middle of nowhere. These kinds of situations call for the assistance of a trustworthy tow truck company in Zephyrhills.

Long-standing towing companies recognize the value of giving their customers a satisfying experience in addition to resolving the technical issue. This can range from courteous and competent tow truck drivers to clear communication regarding wait times and protocols.

Let's talk more about the importance of selecting a reputable tow truck company in Zephyrhills.

1.      Quick and secure support

Reputable towing companies are typically aware of their customers' precarious situations when they hire or call them. They therefore give each call their full attention and send assistance as soon as they can. They have the mechanisms in place to guarantee that the client receive assistance quickly. They are aware that providing prompt assistance will reduce the customer's stress level.

 Another significant benefit that a reputable towing company provides is safe handling of your vehicle while it is being towed. Skilled tow truck drivers have worked on a wide range of automobiles in different states and are well-versed in handling each one with the utmost care. From heavy-duty trucks to hybrid automobiles, a skilled towing team makes sure your car sustains no more harm during recovery and transportation.

2.      Adaptable Remedies for Any Circumstance

 There is no one-size-fits-all method when it comes to towing. Not only does a skilled towing firm have this specific equipment, but it also knows which one to utilize in any particular situation. They could use flatbed towing, for instance, for vehicles that are too big to be hauled with a dolly or for long distances. A winch-out service can be your best bet for a safe and effective car extraction in off-road situations. Different strategies are needed for various vehicles and circumstances. Skilled towing companies provide a broad range of specialized tools and methods to meet different demands.

3.      Proficiency in Law and Insurance

Handling the insurance and legal ramifications of towing can be challenging, especially in the event of an accident. A skilled towing company is well-versed in the rules and legislation governing traffic in the area. This information assists you, the owner of the car, in avoiding any potential legal issues, like parking your car incorrectly after a breakdown and leaving it unattended.

They can also deal directly with your insurance provider to make sure the towing and any necessary repairs go as easily as possible. This feature is priceless since it allows you to concentrate on handling the immediate effects of the car problem while saving time and trouble.

 So, if you are looking for one such trustworthy company, then look no further and get in touch with Ajak’s Towing LLC.

 For more information click: https://ajakstowing.us/ or contact: 813-553-0064.

[trekbec82]

The tags I'm replying to:

Banning the horrible oversized SUVs and American-style pickups would require its own legislation, narrowing the roads wouldn't have that result by itself here. Given that they're already allowed and rapidly increasing in popularity, we'd have a hell of a time trying to ban them from city and suburban streets, especially given that's where so many of them are owned.

I don't have an issue with freight haulage trucks, those at least have a reason for being so large. They're restricted to the major roads that are wide enough to handle them, and necessary - even vital - in a country as geographically large as Australia.

But the horrible oversized SUVs and American-style pickups that put the headlights at face level of anyone in a normal car, and are very nearly as wide as a parking bay, have no reason for being as large as they are, beyond their owners being selfish wankers. Those are already a hazard, and narrowing the roads would only amplify it.

Even if a city is incredibly car dependent, steps can be made to make it way better and more human friendly.

Making parking lots smaller, building parking garages, converting on street parking into bike lanes and handicapped accessible parking, installing bus lanes, narrowing roads and lowering speed limits, using previous parking lot space to add in apartments, small businesses, putting parking behind businesses, bike and walking lanes, parks, community centers, etc.

And some cities have like plazas and parks and stuff with different colored bricks noting parking spaces so they can be instantly converted into parking lots for events like parades, concerts, or sports home games while still functioning as a public space most of the time.

Different colored bricks can also be used to make roads in areas with lower speed limits. Then the city doesn’t have to pay to repaint those areas and in the event a road gets blocked off for a night market or parade or something it feels like more of a friendly place to walk than asphalt.

People fret all the time about how you can make such drastic changes when the whole city is built around cars oh no we can’t just change it. But there’s plenty of in between steps that cities can make. Filling in empty lots for example. You drive or walk around a lot of major American cities and suburbs, there’s a lot of empty lots. Those can be turned into dense housing, parks, businesses, parking garages, transit centers. When maintenance time comes roads can be narrowed, speed limits lowered, bike and bus lanes installed, trees and bushes planted, sidewalks widened.

There’s a lot that can be done right now if the will exists to do it. And almost all of it can or must be done on the local level.

[hardynwa]

Lagos Ports: TTP operations needs legal backing - Expert

The Publisher of MMS Plus newspaper, Mr Kingsley Anaroke, says there is need for the Truck Transit Park (TTP) Ltd., operators of the electronic call-up system for trucks called 'Eto' in the port to have a legal backing. Anaroke gave the advice at the Maritime Reporters' Association of Nigeria (MARAN) breakfast meeting with the theme, "Repositioning ETO Call-up System for Optimal Performance', on Thursday, in Lagos. He said that to back this proposition up with legislation, the electronic call-up system operates within the Apapa municipal jurisdiction as such all that was needed was to enact a Bye- Law or an Ordinance, which was the responsibility of elected councilors to carry out to give it effect. He also advised the leadership of the Nigerian Ports Authority ( NPA) to license two more electronic call –up companies for competition and keep reviewing and improving the infrastructure. According to him, enforcement as well as prosecuting officers or culprits in electronic call –up racketeering to deter others was of essence. ``I recommended the use of mobile court to adjudicate Eto cases with measures of penalties capable of discouraging fraud or cutting corners,'' he said. He raised a concern that the platform had shifted from problem-solving to revenue generation with the handlers neglecting the real issues and placing premiums on the volume of vehicles they receive. He asserted Eto had yielded the sum of N34.4billion in the two years of operation using N21,500 truck booking call- up fee charged by TTP as basis of calculation. Also, Mr Remi Ogungbemi, Chairman, Association of Maritime Truck Owners (AMATO) said to address the challenges of automation system, the association call for the introduction of the Truck Scheduler System (TSS) to help improve the lapses in the Eto process. He noted that the system had been presented at the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) January monthly meeting and a committee set up to look into the system. He also advised those that indulge in the practice of making fake Minimum Safety Standard (MSS) sticker and Eto ticket to desist from such act, ``I equally advise the buyers of black market call up to stop, because if there are no buyers, there will be no sellers,'' he said. Earlier, Mr Godfrey Bivbere, President of MARAN, noted that despite Eto positive impacts, the electronic call-up system had faced criticism, with some operators alleging that it had worsened the traffic crisis and facilitated corruption and extortion. According to Bivbere, it was based on this concerns that MARAN as the watchdog and agenda setting body for government decided to put up the meeting. ``Critical stakeholders have raised concerns that the platform had deviated from its original purpose and turned into a source of revenue generation and that the port environment has returned to the pre-Hadiza Bala-Usman era. ``We are here to discuss workable solutions to rectifying these anomalies and ensure that the platform delivers on the mandate for which it was created to the benefit of the industry at large,'' he said. Read the full article

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 2.26

747 BC – According to Ptolemy, the epoch (origin) of the Nabonassar Era began at noon on this date. Historians use this to establish the modern BC chronology for dating historic events. 364 – Valentinian I is proclaimed Roman emperor. 1266 – Battle of Benevento: An army led by Charles, Count of Anjou, defeats a combined German and Sicilian force led by Manfred, King of Sicily. Manfred is killed in the battle and Pope Clement IV invests Charles as king of Sicily and Naples. 1365 – The Ava Kingdom and the royal city of Ava (Inwa) founded by King Thado Minbya. 1606 – The Janszoon voyage of 1605–06 becomes the first European expedition to set foot on Australia, although it is mistaken as a part of New Guinea. 1616 – Galileo Galilei is formally banned by the Roman Catholic Church from teaching or defending the view that the earth orbits the sun. 1775 – The British East India Company factory on Balambangan Island is destroyed by Moro pirates. 1794 – The first Christiansborg Palace in Copenhagen burns down. 1815 – Napoleon Bonaparte escapes from exile on the island of Elba. 1870 – The Beach Pneumatic Transit in New York City, intending as a demonstration for a subway line opens. 1876 – Japan and Korea sign the Treaty of Kangwha, which grants Japanese citizens extraterritoriality rights in Korea, opens three Korean ports to Japanese trade, and ends Korea's status as a tributary state of Qing dynasty China. 1909 – Kinemacolor, the first successful color motion picture process, is first shown to the general public at the Palace Theatre in London. 1914 – HMHS Britannic, sister to the RMS Titanic, is launched at Harland and Wolff shipyard in Belfast. 1919 – President Woodrow Wilson signs an act of Congress establishing the Grand Canyon National Park. 1929 – President Calvin Coolidge signs legislation establishing the 96,000 acres (390 km2) Grand Teton National Park in Wyoming. 1935 – Adolf Hitler orders the Luftwaffe to be re-formed, violating the provisions of the Treaty of Versailles. 1935 – Robert Watson-Watt carries out a demonstration near Daventry which leads directly to the development of radar in the United Kingdom. 1936 – In the February 26 Incident, young nationalist Japanese military officers assassinate multiple cabinet statesmen and start a rebellion in downtown Tokyo, which is ended 3 days later. 1945 – World War II: US troops reclaim the Philippine island of Corregidor from the Japanese. 1952 – Vincent Massey is sworn in as the first Canadian-born Governor General of Canada. 1960 – A New York-bound Alitalia airliner crashes into a cemetery in Shannon, Ireland, shortly after takeoff, killing 34 of the 52 persons on board. 1966 – Apollo program: Launch of AS-201, the first flight of the Saturn IB rocket. 1971 – U.N. Secretary-General U Thant signs United Nations proclamation of the vernal equinox as Earth Day. 1979 – The Superliner railcar enters revenue service with Amtrak. 1980 – Egypt and Israel establish full diplomatic relations. 1987 – Iran–Contra affair: The Tower Commission rebukes President Ronald Reagan for not controlling his national security staff. 1992 – First Nagorno-Karabakh War: Khojaly Massacre: Armenian armed forces open fire on Azeri civilians at a military post outside the town of Khojaly leaving hundreds dead. 1993 – World Trade Center bombing: In New York City, a truck bomb parked below the North Tower of the World Trade Center explodes, killing six and injuring over a thousand people. 1995 – The UK's oldest investment banking institute, Barings Bank, collapses after a rogue securities broker Nick Leeson loses $1.4 billion by speculating on the Singapore International Monetary Exchange using futures contracts. 2008 – The New York Philharmonic performs in Pyongyang, North Korea; this is the first event of its kind to take place in North Korea. 2012 – Seventeen-year-old African-American student Trayvon Martin is shot to death by neighborhood watch coordinator George Zimmerman in an altercation in Sanford, Florida.

[kingdompressnews]

Florida Implements New Laws for 2024: Stricter Move Over Rules and Expanded Iran Investment Restrictions Take Effect

As the year 2024 begins, there are several noteworthy changes in Florida laws that will take effect. These changes from an expansion of the state’s “move over” traffic law to stricter rules regarding investments in Iran. These updates were approved by state lawmakers during the 2023 regular legislative session and special sessions. Let’s explore some of the significant changes that Floridians can expect in January.

One prominent change is the expansion of the “move over” law, which requires drivers to switch lanes away from stopped vehicles such as police cars, ambulances, and utility trucks. Under a comprehensive transportation bill (HB 425) passed during the regular session, motorists will now need to provide space when disabled vehicles are stopped along roads with visible individuals or warning lights on. This expansion aims to enhance safety on the roads and reduce accidents. Violations of this law will result in fines of up to $158 for noncriminal traffic infractions.

Another change set to take effect on January 10th was passed during a November special session to demonstrate support for Israel during the conflict with Iran-backed Hamas. The law (HB 5C) expands a list of “scrutinized” companies in which state investments cannot be made due to their ties to Iran. This measure aligns with the federal government’s economic sanctions against Iran that have been in place since the 1979 hostage crisis. The expanded law requires divestment from companies with connections to Iran’s petroleum industry if more than 10% of their total revenues or assets are linked to Iran within sectors like energy, manufacturing, or shipping. However, companies can avoid being added to the list by taking substantial action to address the concerns raised by the state.

Additionally, other changes coming into effect in January include:

1. Mayors and other elected municipal officials will have to submit more detailed financial disclosure information, including income, assets, and liabilities, similar to what legislators and statewide elected officials already do.

2. Florida businesses will experience an overall 15.1% decrease in workers’ compensation insurance rates, although specific rate changes will vary for individual businesses.

3. A back-to-school tax “holiday” will be held from Monday through January 14th, allowing shoppers to avoid paying sales taxes on clothing items costing $100 or less, school supplies costing $50 or less, learning aids costing $30 or less, and personal computers costing $1,500 or less.

4. Floridians will now be able to reserve campsites and cabins at state parks 11 months in advance, while non-Floridians will have a reservation window of 10 months.

5. County courthouses will be required to provide lactation spaces by Monday, with some exceptions.

6. The Florida Healthy Kids Corp. will establish premium tiers based on household incomes as part of a law expanding eligibility for coverage in the KidCare subsidized health-insurance program.

7. The year-long program that provided toll-road credits to frequent users will end on Sunday. This program granted 50% credits to motorists using SunPass or other Florida transponders who made 35 or more toll-road trips monthly.

These changes reflect the continuous efforts of Florida lawmakers to improve safety, support international allies, and address various issues affecting residents. It is essential for Floridians to be aware of these updates to ensure compliance with the law and take advantage of any benefits offered.

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Blog - Florida Implements New Laws for 2024: Stricter Move Over Rules and Expanded Iran Investment Restrictions Take Effect

[pashterlengkap]

Ohio Senate overrides governor’s veto on trans healthcare & sports bans

The Ohio Senate voted 24-8 on Wednesday to override Gov. Mike DeWine’s (R) veto on House Bill 68 (HB 68), a bill banning gender-affirming care for trans minors and trans females from participating in scholastic sports. The override makes Ohio the 23rd state to ban gender-affirming care for trans minors and the 24th to ban trans sports participation. While Ohio’s law is expected to go into effect in 90 days, on April 23, it will likely face a legal challenge, possibly delaying the law from going into effect. The Ohio chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has already pledged to “do everything we can to fight this.” Related: Ohio governor defends trans candidates & tells election officials to stop kicking them off ballots The law has been used to disqualify three trans Democrats from running for office. But at least one is fighting back. DeWine vetoed HB 68 on December 26, 2023, saying, “The government [doesn’t know] better what is medically best for a child [more] than the two people who love that child the most, their parents.” DeWine said he decided to veto the bill after visiting with parents of trans youth who are currently receiving gender-affirming healthcare. Never Miss a Beat Subscribe to our daily newsletter to stay ahead of the latest LGBTQ+ political news and insights. “They told me their child is alive only because they received care,” DeWine said, according to WHMC. “These are gut-wrenching decisions that should be made by parents and should be informed by teams of doctors who are advising them. These are parents who have watched their children suffer for years.” Agreeing with DeWine, the Ohio ACLU parked a truck outside of the Ohio statehouse on Wednesday with a message on its sides that said, “Health care decisions belong with patients, providers, & families.” In a follow-up tweet after the Senate’s vote, the organization wrote, “This is a shameful legislative act. We will do everything we can to fight this.” The state’s leading LGBTQ+ advocacy group Equality Ohio also said it is looking into legal and legislative actions against the law. The state transgender advocacy group TransOhio said it has already spoken with 68 families and seven trans adults who requested emergency relocation funds to leave the state because of the new law. “Their government is forcing them to uproot their lives,” TransOhio’s secretary Dara Adkison told NBC News. “They’re selling their homes, they’re changing jobs and careers and closing out all of their savings. They’re closing their businesses, they’re leaving their medical practices. The intense amount of personal and community trauma that is being inflicted by the government right now and putting these families through who just love their f**king kids is so cruel.” Ahead of today's vote on overriding the veto of HB 68, we want to remind Senators that healthcare decisions belong with patients, providers, and families. NOT anti-LGBTQ politicians. We're parked outside the Statehouse to say trans youth belong and Ohio is home. pic.twitter.com/6ZhS2Rlx3j— ACLU of Ohio (@acluohio) January 24, 2024 The Ohio House voted 65-28 to override DeWine’s veto on January 11. The law will revoke the trans-inclusive policies of the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA), the body that oversees high school sports. The OHSAA’s policies allow trans women and girls to compete if they have completed a minimum of one year of hormone treatment and/or demonstrated that they do not possess physical or physiological advantages over “genetic females of the same age group.” OHSAA’s policy has allowed seven trans girls to play high school sports this school year. “HB 68 would have a direct impact on the OHSAA’s transgender policy, which has been in place since 2015 and has served our member schools to provide participation opportunities for transgender students without putting biological females at a competitive… http://dlvr.it/T1r2r8

[exit-babylon]

FIRST, LET THIS BEEN SAID: LIVE AND LET LIVE. RESPECT EVERY BODY AND EVERYBODY'S ORIENTATION, LIFE STYLE AND BELIEF SYSTEM. WE DON'T NEED TO ALWAYS AGREE.

OPPOSE ANY AGRESSIVE IDEOLOGY.

AND NOW, LETS EXPOSE A TOTALITARIAN MANIFESTO FROM 1987, THAT WAS MADE TO ENSLAVE THE WORLD.

IT IS NOT A SCENARIO ABOUT HAPPY FUNNY CUTE INNOCENT RAINBOWS AND UNICORNS.

Gay Manifesto

(First Published in Gay Community News, Feb. 15-21, 1987 and also put into the Congressional Record. Author - Michael Swift)

We shall sodomize your sons, emblems of your feeble masculinity, of your shallow dreams and vulgar lies. We shall seduce them in your schools, in your dormitories, in your gymnasiums, in your locker rooms, in your sports arenas, in your seminaries, in your youth groups, in your movie theater bathrooms, in your army bunkhouses, in your truck stops, in your all male clubs, in your houses of Congress, wherever men are with men together. Your sons shall become our minions and do our bidding. They will be recast in our image. They will come to crave and adore us.

Women, you cry for freedom. You say you are no longer satisfied with men; they make you unhappy. We, connoisseurs of the masculine face, the masculine physique, shall take your men from you then. We will amuse them; we will instruct them; we will embrace them when they weep. Women, you say you wish to live with each other instead of with men. Then go and be with each other. We shall give your men pleasures they have never known because we are foremost men too, and only one man knows how to truly please another man; only one man can understand the depth and feeling, the mind and body of another man.

All laws banning homosexual activity will be revoked. Instead, legislation shall be passed which engenders love between men.

All homosexuals must stand together as brothers; we must be united artistically, philosophically, socially, politically and financially. We will triumph only when we present a common face to the vicious heterosexual enemy.

If you dare to cry faggot, fairy, queer, at us, we will stab you in your cowardly hearts and defile your dead, puny bodies.

We shall write poems of the love between men; we shall stage plays in which man openly caresses man; we shall make films about the love between heroic men which will replace the cheap, superficial, sentimental, insipid, juvenile, heterosexual infatuations presently dominating your cinema screens. We shall sculpt statues of beautiful young men, of bold athletes which will be placed in your parks, your squares, your plazas. The museums of the world will be filled only with paintings of graceful, naked lads.

Our writers and artists will make love between men fashionable and de rigueur, and we will succeed because we are adept at setting styles. We will eliminate heterosexual liaisons through usage of the devices of wit and ridicule, devices which we are skilled in employing.

We will unmask the powerful homosexuals who masquerade as heterosexuals. You will be shocked and frightened when you find that your presidents and their sons, your industrialists, your senators, your mayors, your generals, your athletes, your film stars, your television personalities, your civic leaders, your priests are not the safe, familiar, bourgeois, heterosexual figures you assumed them to be. We are everywhere; we have infiltrated your ranks. Be careful when you speak of homosexuals because we are always among you; we may be sitting across the desk from you; we may be sleeping in the same bed with you.

There will be no compromises. We are not middle-class weaklings. Highly intelligent, we are the natural aristocrats of the human race, and steely-minded aristocrats never settle for less. Those who oppose us will be exiled.

We shall raise vast private armies, as Mishima did, to defeat you. We shall conquer the world because warriors inspired by and banded together by homosexual love and honor are invincible as were the ancient Greek soldiers.

The family unit-spawning ground of lies, betrayals, mediocrity, hypocrisy and violence--will be abolished. The family unit, which only dampens imagination and curbs free will, must be eliminated. Perfect boys will be conceived and grown in the genetic laboratory. They will be bonded together in communal setting, under the control and instruction of homosexual savants.

All churches who condemn us will be closed. Our only gods are handsome young men. We adhere to a cult of beauty, moral and esthetic. All that is ugly and vulgar and banal will be annihilated. Since we are alienated from middle-class heterosexual conventions, we are free to live our lives according to the dictates of the pure imagination. For us too much is not enough.

The exquisite society to emerge will be governed by an elite comprised of gay poets. One of the major requirements for a position of power in the new society of homoeroticism will be indulgence in the Greek passion. Any man contaminated with heterosexual lust will be automatically barred from a position of influence. All males who insist on remaining stupidly heterosexual will be tried in homosexual courts of justice and will become invisible men.

We shall rewrite history, history filled and debased with your heterosexual lies and distortions. We shall portray the homosexuality of the great leaders and thinkers who have shaped the world. We will demonstrate that homosexuality and intelligence and imagination are inextricably linked, and that homosexuality is a requirement for true nobility, true beauty in a man.

We shall be victorious because we are fueled with the ferocious bitterness of the oppressed who have been forced to play seemingly bit parts in your dumb, heterosexual shows throughout the ages. We too are capable of firing guns and manning the barricades of the ultimate revolution.

Tremble, hetero swine, when we appear before you without our masks.