Wednesday, July 15, 2026
Protections of Members of Congress--
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Protections for Members of Congress
Members of Congress enjoy a range of constitutional and statutory protections designed to preserve legislative independence, ensure free debate, and support their official duties.
1. Speech or Debate Clause Immunity
Under Article I, Section 6 of the U.S. Constitution, members are shielded from being prosecuted or questioned in any court or place outside Congress for speeches, debates, or votes taken in the course of their legislative duties lawshun.comlawshun.com. This immunity is intended to protect robust debate and prevent retaliation for political disagreements. It does not protect criminal conduct or actions taken outside official duties thelegalguide.orgthelegalguide.org+1.
2. Limited Arrest Immunity
Members cannot be arrested during sessions of Congress for non-violent offenses, except for treason, felony, or breach of the peace lawshun.comlawshun.com+1. They are also exempt from jury duty and certain legal processes while in session or traveling to/from Congress lawshun.comlawshun.com.
3. Witness Immunity
Members cannot be compelled to testify in legal proceedings about legislative acts while Congress is in session lawshun.comlawshun.com.
4. Franking Privilege
They can send official mail and communications to constituents without postage, using a signature or facsimile as proof. This supports outreach and casework, but political campaign-related mail is excluded thelegalguide.orgthelegalguide.org.
5. Compensation and Benefits
Members receive salaries, health insurance, retirement plans, and staff budgets. They may also have allowances for travel, office maintenance, and technology support thelegalguide.orgthelegalguide.org+1.
6. Capitol Police Protection
The Capitol Police Board can authorize the U.S. Capitol Police to provide protection to members, officers of Congress, and their immediate families if deemed necessary LII / Legal Information InstituteLII / Legal Information Institute. This includes the authority to make warrantless arrests for certain offenses in their presence or for felonies with reasonable grounds LII / Legal Information InstituteLII / Legal Information Institute.
7. Scope Limitations
These protections apply only to actions taken in the course of legislative duties. Members remain subject to criminal prosecution, civil lawsuits, and congressional ethics investigations for non-legislative conduct lawshun.comlawshun.com.
In summary, members of Congress are protected from legal liability for official legislative acts, have limited arrest immunity, enjoy free speech protections, and receive resources and security to perform their duties, but these protections do not shield them from accountability for personal or non-legislative actions.
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Monday, July 13, 2026
Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States.
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Howard Zinn’s A People’s History of the United States
Howard Zinn’s A People’s History of the United States is a landmark work of social history that reimagines American history from the perspective of ordinary people rather than political elites. First published in 1980, it has since sold over four million copies in English and been translated into more than a dozen languages Howard ZinnHoward Zinn.
Core Approach
Zinn’s method is to tell history “from the bottom up” — focusing on the experiences of women, factory workers, African Americans, Native Americans, the working poor, and immigrant laborers Howard ZinnHoward Zinn+1. He challenges the traditional “great men” narrative of U.S. history, emphasizing grassroots movements and the struggles of marginalized groups.
Themes and Content
The book covers the period from Christopher Columbus’s arrival in 1492 through the Clinton administration, analyzing pivotal events such as:
The Civil Rights Movement and fights for racial equality
Labor rights — fair wages, the eight-hour workday, child labor laws, health and safety standards Women’s rights and universal suffrage Anti-war movements, especially against the Vietnam War Immigrant rights and resistance to imperialism Howard ZinnHoward Zinn+1 Zinn shows how many of the nation’s most important victories were achieved through mass mobilization and sustained resistance against powerful opposition. Style and Impact Known for lively, clear prose and scholarly research, the book is accessible to both students and general readers. It has been widely used in classrooms to broaden historical perspectives and is praised for its ability to bridge generations Howard ZinnHoward Zinn+1. Legacy The 35th anniversary edition (2015) includes a new introduction by Anthony Arnove, who notes that Zinn’s work fundamentally changed how millions think about history, but that it was shaped by his active involvement in social movements during the 1960s–1970s Howard ZinnHoward Zinn+1. The book has appeared in popular media, including The Sopranos, The Simpsons, Good Will Hunting, and the History Channel documentary The People Speak Howard ZinnHoward Zinn+1. Why It Matters A People’s History of the United States remains a critical resource for understanding U.S. history through the voices of those often excluded from mainstream narratives, making it essential reading for anyone interested in democracy, justice, and the role of ordinary people in shaping the nation’s past.
Sunday, July 12, 2026
Timothy Snyder, author of On Tyranny--comments on movie Supergirl--
Because the makers of this film were so careless in the plotting, they cannot have seen that carelessness is the center of their story.
We are meant to understand Supergirl as an anti-hero; but she isn’t; she’s a slob who mindlessly endangers herself and others. An anti-hero is someone who represents virtues that are in tension with the established order; it is not someone who is just unhappy and who, when the stars align, can beat up everyone else.
The Athenians who gave us the notion of tragedy believed that art allowed us to see a flaw in others and thereby recognize the possibility of unseen flaws in our own character; we should therefore be careful in our judgements, because the reality of freedom depends upon the practice of self-criticism.
Later, in their decadence, the Greeks gave way to the idea that everything was written in the stars, that gods and heroes rise or fall with this heavenly body or that. Gilbert Murray called this the “failure of nerve.” We are meant to be joyous when the yellow sun emerges, but should we celebrate our submission to careless powers?
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PS: Please also see my positive review of Superman).
PPS: Next week, likely Wednesday July 15th, will see the rollout of the public version of my University of Toronto course “Hitler and Stalin Today.” The ten-lecture class will be accessible free of charge to anyone around the world.
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Wow--Jeffrey Goldberg, Editor in Chief of The Atlantic--fromWikipedia
Many years after his first trip to Israel as a 13-year-old, he became a dual Israeli citizen. Goldberg recalled the sense of empowerment he felt Israel embodied.[9] In a 2013 interview with the Washingtonian, he said he had decided to give up his Israeli citizenship, saying that "If Israel goes much further down the road I think it’s on and becomes more of a theocratic, totalitarian-style state [...] how could the liberal-minded American Jew support that?"[7]
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeffrey_Goldberg
Saturday, July 11, 2026
Literary agents accepting romance novels. Write it first, make it the best you can-.
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There are numerous literary agents actively seeking romance manuscripts across various subgenres, from contemporary and historical to paranormal and romantic suspense.
Notable Literary Agencies and Agents
Folio Literary Management (New York City, US) represents romance among other genres and prefers email submissions. They have worked with authors like Julie Murphy and Laura Sebastian ReedsyReedsy. Marsal Lyon Literary Agency, LLC (San Diego, US) handles romance and women’s fiction, with clients including Kate Quinn and Jennifer L. Armentrout ReedsyReedsy. BookEnds Literary Agency (Newark, US) accepts romance submissions through QueryManager and focuses on character-driven stories ReedsyReedsy. Spencerhill Associates features agents such as Ali Herring, Nalini Akolekar, Amanda Leuck, and Sandy Harding, who represent contemporary, historical, paranormal, and inspirational romance TCK PublishingTCK Publishing. Irene Goodman Literary Agency agent Whitney Ross specializes in romance and has extensive editorial experience Writing Tips OasisWriting Tips Oasis. RF Agency agent Rebecca Friedman represents commercial fiction and contemporary romance Writing Tips OasisWriting Tips Oasis. Nelson Literary Agency agent Kristin Nelson, Marsal Lyon Literary Agency agent Kevan Lyon, and Bradford Literary Agency agent Laura Bradford are also --cut off accidentally
Literary agents accepting poetry submissions--
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Several literary agents are currently accepting poetry submissions, offering guidance and representation for poets seeking traditional publication.
Finding Poetry Agents
Working with a literary agent is often the most effective route to traditional publication, especially for debut poets, as most major publishers do not accept unsolicited submissions. Agents not only help you get your manuscript in front of publishers but also provide editorial guidance to refine your work and navigate the publishing process ReedsyReedsy.
Notable Agents Accepting Poetry Submissions
Some literary agents currently open to poetry submissions include:
Joy Harris – Works with literary fiction, narrative nonfiction, memoir, and poetry. Submission guidelines are available on her website TCK PublishingTCK Publishing.
Sorche Fairbank – Interested in literary fiction, nonfiction, memoir, and children’s books, including poetry TCK PublishingTCK Publishing.
Jenni Ferrari-Adler – Agent at Union Literary, open to literary fiction and narrative nonfiction, with some interest in poetry TCK PublishingTCK Publishing.
Deborah Ritchken – Focuses on lifestyle, women’s issues, biography, and fiction, occasionally considering poetry TCK PublishingTCK Publishing.
For a more comprehensive list, Reedsy provides a directory of literary agents seeking poetry submissions in 2026, which can be filtered by genre, location, and other preferences ReedsyReedsy.
Tips for Submitting to Agents
Research Each Agent – Study their manuscript wishlist and previous publications to ensure your poetry aligns with their interests.
Personalize Your Query Letter – Tailor your submission letter to each agent, highlighting why your work fits their portfolio.
Follow Submission Guidelines – Adhere strictly to formatting, sample length, and method of submission as specified by the agent.
Prepare a Cohesive Manuscript – Most agents prefer a complete, polished manuscript, typically 48–100 pages for poetry collections adeptghostwriting.comadeptghostwriting.com.
Alternative Routes
If you are also considering publishers directly, many poetry presses accept submissions without an agent, including Red Hen Press and Copper Canyon Press, which run open submission periods and contests Rafal ReyzerRafal Reyzer. University presses like University of Pittsburgh Press and Yale University Press also offer competitions for debut poets adeptghostwriting.comadeptghostwriting.com.
By combining agent research with careful manuscript preparation and adherence to submission guidelines, poets can signuthors
Top poetry literary agencies
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Temporary seasonal agricultural US Visas.
Well--allow them in or no strawberries, blueberries, apples, raspberries, lettuce, salad greens etc.
Expect farmers to come dump their spoiled produce in front of the WH or Mar a Lago.
https://www.msn.com/en-us/politics/government/one-us-visa-program-is-growing-rapidly-no-one-is-happy-with-it/ar-AA27FcNg?ocid=BingNewsSerp
Cyclosporiasis warning--from food or water contamnated with feces.
https://www.pbs.org/newshour/health/what-you-need-to-know-about-the-cyclosporiasis-outbreak?utm_source=firefox-newtab-en-us
US extends Temporary Protected Status to immigrants inclduding from Myanmar--
https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/us-extends-work-permits-haitians-other-immigrants-with-temporary-protected-2026-07-10/
Most might be working in low paid jobs or in Amazon fulfilment centers.
From NY Times--
Mexican officials said on Thursday they planned to file criminal complaints in the United States over the deaths of several Mexican nationals during immigration operations, in the nation’s most confrontational protest yet against President Trump’s immigration policies.
https://www.nytimes.com/2026/07/10/world/americas/mexico-criminal-complaints-immigration-deaths-usa.html
Roberto Velasco Álvarez, Mexico’s foreign affairs minister, announced the move in a news conference on Thursday, two days after an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent fatally shot a Mexican man who had lived and worked for decades in the United States and was trying to obtain legal residency.
Mr. Velasco said Mexico would file the complaints with U.S. state prosecutors and the U.S. Department of Justice, requesting criminal investigations into the deaths of 14 Mexican citizens in immigration detention centers and of three others during enforcement raids under the current administration.
In a statement, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security did not deny Mexico’s tally of its citizens who have died in the department’s custody, but rejected accusations that migrant deaths have spiked since Mr. Trump returned to office. The U.S. Department of Justice did not respond to a request for comment.
Friday, July 10, 2026
Thursday, July 09, 2026
Wednesday, July 08, 2026
using oats in place of flour--It's easier to use roasted chick pea flour.
Pe Hmont--roast in a dry pan.
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Oats can be used as a substitute for flour, offering a gluten-free, fiber-rich alternative, but adjustments in texture, liquid, and binding agents are often necessary.
Types of Oats for Substitution
Rolled Oats (Old-Fashioned Oats): Ideal for making oat flour; provide a slightly coarser texture suitable for cookies, muffins, and bars thekitchenpursuits.comthekitchenpursuits.com+1.
Quick Oats: Can be ground into a finer flour; absorb more liquid and work well in pancakes, muffins, and cookies decorwithstyle.comdecorwithstyle.com+1.
Steel-Cut Oats: Not recommended for baking as a flour substitute due to their coarse, chewy texture thekitchenpursuits.comthekitchenpursuits.com.
Making Oat Flour at Home
Use rolled or quick oats, not steel-cut or instant oats.
Blend or process in a high-speed blender or food processor until a fine powder forms Our Everyday LifeOur Everyday Life+1.
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place or refrigerate to maintain freshness Chef's ResourceChef's Resource.
Recipe Adjustments
Texture: Oat flour lacks gluten, so baked goods may be denser and drier than those made with wheat flour Our Everyday LifeOur Everyday Life+1.
Binding Agents: Add xanthan gum (½ tsp per cup of oat flour) or a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water) to improve structure Chef's ResourceChef's Resource.
Liquid Content: Oat flour absorbs more liquid; you may need to increase moisture in the recipe to prevent dryness Our Everyday LifeOur Everyday Life+1.
Leavening: Extra baking powder or soda may be needed to maintain a lighter texture Our Everyday LifeOur Everyday Life.
Partial vs. Full Substitution: Start by replacing 25–50% of wheat flour with oat flour; full substitution requires more adjustments Chef's ResourceChef's Resource.
Nutritional and Dietary Benefits
Gluten-Free: Suitable for celiac disease or gluten intolerance when using certified gluten-free oats Our Everyday LifeOur Everyday Life+1.
High Fiber: Rich in beta-glucan, which supports heart health and digestion thekitchenpursuits.comthekitchenpursuits.com+1.
Nutrient-Dense: Provides iron, magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins foodblogalliance.comfoodblogalliance.com.
Lower Glycemic Index: Helps regulate blood sugar levels decorwithstyle.comdecorwithstyle.com.
Practical Tips
Experiment with coarser or finer oat flour to achieve the desired texture Our Everyday LifeOur Everyday Life.
Begin with recipes specifically designed for oat flour for best results Our Everyday LifeOur Everyday Life.
Gradually increase oat flour in familiar recipes to adjust to taste and texture changes Our Everyday LifeOur Everyday Life.
Using oats instead of flour is a versatile and nutritious option, but successful substitution requires attention to texture, moisture, and binding to achieve the best results in baking and cooking.
Movie versions of the Ramayana.
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Movie Versions of the Ramayana
The Ramayana has been adapted into countless films across India and beyond, spanning live-action, animation, and regional cinema. These adaptations range from faithful retellings to modern reinterpretations.
Major Live-Action Films
Sampoorna Ramayana (1961) – A Telugu/Tamil epic covering Rama’s life from birth to coronation, a milestone in devotional cinema MoneyControl.
Lava Kusa (1963) – Bollywood’s take on Rama’s twin sons and their confrontation with their father MoneyControl.
Bajrangbali (1976) – Hanuman’s heroic exploits, starring Dara Singh MoneyControl.
Mahabali Hanuman (1981) – Indo-Japanese animated film introducing Ramayana to global audiences MoneyControl.
Ram Setu (2022) – Modern retelling of Rama’s bridge-building with VFX-heavy visuals MoneyControl.
Adipurush (2023) – Prabhas as Rama in a VFX-heavy, modernized adaptation MoneyControl.
Ranbir Kapoor’s Ramayana – Planned live-action cinematic trilogy faithful to the epic MoneyControl.
Raavanan (2010) – Tamil film blending myth with modern drama Wikipedia.
Raavan (2010) – Hindi adaptation with a darker tone Wikipedia.
Animated & International Adaptations
Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama (1993) – India-Japan anime following Rama’s valor and moral lessons Telly Express.
Hanuman Patal Vijay (1997) – Hanuman’s journey to Lanka Wikipedia.
Hanuman Vijay – Animated retelling of Hanuman’s role in the epic Wikipedia.
Mahiravana (2018) – Hanuman vs. Ravana’s brother Mahiravana IMDb.
Regional & Specialized Films
Sampoorna Ramayanam (1958, 1972) – Telugu/Tamil full-length adaptations Wikipedia.
Bhookailas (1940, 1958) – Early Indian Ramayana films Wikipedia.
Sathi Ahalya – Focus on Ahalya’s story Wikipedia.
Sita Kalyanam (1934, 1976) – Depicting Sita’s marriage to Rama Wikipedia.
TV & Series Adaptations
Ramanand Sagar’s Ramayan (1987–1988) – Live-action TV series starring Arun Govil as Rama, Deepika Chikhalia as Sita Telly Express.
Siya Ke Ram (2015–) – Retold from Sita’s perspective Telly Express.
Notable Modern Retellings
Lav Kush – Mythological adventure with a modern twist MoneyControl. Kalki 2898 AD (2024) – While not a direct Ramayana retelling, it draws on mythological themes IMDb. Tip: If you want a faithful, full-length epic, Sampoorna Ramayana or Sampoorna Ramayanam are classics. For modern visuals, Adipurush and Ram Setu are recent highlights. For animation, Ramayana: The Legend of Prince Rama and Mahabali Hanuman are standout choices.
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