text:
Q: Use environment variable from Dockerfile in Bash script I have a really simple Redis bash script that loads some default values into Redis for when my application starts, run in a docker container.
I want to get an ENV var within the bash script passed into my Dockerfile, everytime I run the container and check the logs it says it can't find the set environment var.
My bash script is just
#!/usr/bin/env bash
redis-server --daemonize yes && sleep 1

if [ "$ENVIRONMENT_VAR" = "found" ]; then
    echo "found environment var"
fi

A snippet of my Dockerfile where I try and set a default for the value
ENV ENVIRONMENT_VAR notfound

CMD ["sh", "redis.sh"]

And my Docker-Compose I'm passing
environment:
  - ENVIRONMENT_VAR=found

Is there something special I need to do to use the ENV value in my bash script?

A: What you are doing looks completely fine to me. I have implement what you are trying to accomplish in case you missed something.
First let's start with the dockerfile
From redis:alpine
WORKDIR /usr/app
ENV ENVIRONMENT_VAR notfound
COPY . .
CMD sh ./start.sh

Here I'm using a redis image to start with, declaring the environment variable, copy the script into the container and start it.
Second the docker-compose which also should be alike your implementation in somehow
version: '3.2'

services:
  redis:
    container_name: 'redis-test'
    build: .
    environment:
        - ENVIRONMENT_VAR=found
    restart: always

If you looked to the output using the docker-compose up command
you will find the found environment var you trying to print
redis-test | 7:C 21 Apr 2020 10:30:14.247 # oO0OoO0OoO0Oo Redis is starting oO0OoO0OoO0Oo
redis-test | 7:C 21 Apr 2020 10:30:14.247 # Redis version=5.0.9, bits=64, commit=00000000, modified=0, pid=7, just started
redis-test | 7:C 21 Apr 2020 10:30:14.247 # Configuration loaded
redis-test | found environment var

you can debug this also by echo $ ENVIRONMENT_VAR inside your container like what @David Maze mentioned

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaStackExchange


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On 26th of November, HarekAct was invited to Istanbul's Açık Radyo (Open Radio) program called Hamişden Sesler (Voices from Hamisch), a unique and outstanding radio program wich aims to spread "voices from exile on Syria and Syrians".
Our member Pelin had the chance to explain how our blog was established, what are the topics that we have been covering, and our intentions to archive, monitor and incorporate more contributions to the blog in order to build a collection of critical and analytical literature on the issue of migration and border regime in and around Turkey.
The interview moved forward from explaining our name HarekAct, as a conjugation of "movement" and "action" that hints at the very basic element of freedom of movement and the related struggles as opposed to the regime that represents migration as a 'crisis'; to informing on other bordermonitoring projects and groups within the bordermonitoring platform.
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The full program can be listened through the Açık Radyo podcast in Turkish.


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Primary Examiner: Pascua; Jes F.
Abstract: A plastic T-shirt bag comprises an extruded plastic tubular form having side gussets and a seal line at the bottom of the bag. The junctions of the inner folds of the gussets and the seal line are the weakest areas of the bottom of the bag. A reinforcement tape extends across both weakened areas and takes up the forces applied to them when the bag is loaded.
1. A plastic T-shirt bag, comprising a tube of plastic film having side gussets, each gusset including an inner fold, a seal line at the bottom of the bag intersecting said innerfolds, and handles formed in the gussetted portions of the bag, the improvement comprising reinforcement means separate from said plastic film adhered to the bottom of the bag and extending across each of said inner folds close to or overlapping saidseal line, said reinforcement means not being adhered to the bag in the regions where the handles are formed, whereby said reinforcement means reduces the tendency of the junctions of the inner folds and seal line to fail when the bag is loaded.
2. A plastic T-shirt bag as defined in claim 1, wherein said reinforcement means comprises separate tapes applied to opposite sides of said bag.
3. A plastic T-shirt bag as defined in claim 1, wherein said reinforcement means comprises a tape folded over the bottom of said bag.
4. A plastic T-shirt bag as defined in claim 1, wherein said reinforcement means comprises a tape applied to only one side of said bag.
5. A plastic T-shirt bag as defined in claim 1, wherein said reinforcement means comprises a tape including a pressure sensitive adhesive coating.
6. A plastic T-shirt bag as defined in claim 1, wherein said reinforcement means comprises a tape thermally bonded to the bag.
7. A plastic T-shirt bag as defined in claim 6, wherein the tape is thermally bonded to the bag along said seal line.
8. A plastic T-shirt bag according to claim 1, wherein said reinforcement means comprises a tape which is about half the thickness of the plastic film.
9. A plastic T-shirt bag according to claim 1, wherein said reinforcement means comprises a separate tape applied across each of said junctions.
10. A plastic T-shirt bag according to claim 1, wherein the reinforcement means is not adhered to the bag substantially above the junction of the inner folds and seal line.
11. A plastic T-shirt bag, comprising a plastic tube having side gussets, each gusset including an inner fold, a seal line at the bottom of the bag intersecting said inner folds, and handles formed in the gussetted portions of the bag, theimprovement comprising at least one tape separate from the plastic tube adhered to the bottom of the bag and extending across both of the junctions of said inner folds and said seal line, said tape not being adhered to the bag in the regions where thehandles are formed, whereby the tape reduces the tendency of the junctions of the inner folds and seal line to fail when the bag is loaded.
12. A plastic T-shirt bag as defined in claim 11, wherein separate tapes are applied to opposite sides of said bag.
13. A plastic T-shirt bag as defined in claim 11, wherein the tape is folded over the bottom of said bag.
14. A plastic T-shirt bag as defined in claim 11, wherein the tape is applied to only one side of said bag.
15. A plastic T-shirt bag as defined in claim 11, wherein the tape includes a pressure sensitive adhesive coating.
16. A plastic T-shirt bag as defined in claim 11, wherein the tape is thermally bonded to the bag.
17. A plastic T-shirt bag as defined in claim 16, wherein the tape is thermally bonded to the bag along said seal line.
18. A plastic T-shirt bag according to claim 11, wherein the reinforcement tape is not adhered to the bag substantially above the junction of the inner folds and seal line.
Description: Thisinvention relates to plastic bags and, more particularly, to gussetted bags, especially bags commonly referred to as T-shirt bags.
A bag commonly in use throughout the United States and elsewhere is known as a T-shirt bag. T-shirt bags are customarily made from tubular plastic film which is gussetted, sealed and cut to form a bag with handles on the sides of the bag.
The handles for a T-shirt bag are formed from the gussetted side regions. As a result, when the bag is loaded and lifted by the handles, relatively large forces are applied in opposite direction to the areas at the junctions of the bottom sealand the gusset folds. The bag, therefore, is most likely to tear at those junctions when it is loaded and lifted by the handles.
If an overloaded bag does not rupture at the gusset-bottom seal junctions, it is likely to tear at the handles. The handles can be strengthened if they are made wider, but the width of the handles is limited to the width of the gussets, and thewider the gussets the weaker the junctions of the gussets and the bottom seal.
To overcome these problems, the thickness of the plastic film can be increased or the quality of the plastic can be improved but the junctions, while strengthened proportionately, will remain the weakest areas in the bag. These solutions,moreover, result in added expense by virtue of the increase in quality or quantity of the raw material.
Furthermore, when the tubular film is gussetted, the thickness of the gussetted regions at the sides of the bag is twice that of the ungussetted portion in the center. The sealing means which forms the seal at the bottom of the bag must providesufficient heat to weld together all four layers in the gussetted regions. This is more heat than is required for the ungussetted central region of the bag. The excessive heat applied to the ungussetted portion creates a weakness, particularly in thearea of the junctions of the gusset folds and the bottom seal.
One possible approach to this problem is to increase the sealing time by decreasing the speed of the sealing process. This change, however, does not totally solve the problem and, moreover, because of the decrease in production speed, results inincreased costs for the final product.
The principal object of this invention is to provide a gussetted plastic bag which is stronger than prior art bags of comparable construction and which is essentially no more expensive to make.
Another object of the invention is to provide a gussetted plastic bag in which the junctions of the gusset folds and seal line are not the weakest areas of the bag.
A more specific object of the invention is to provide an economic way of strengthening a conventional T-shirt bag without significantly increasing the cost of manufacture.
A still further object of the invention is to provide a T-shirt bag having wider handles for a given thickness of plastic film.
In accordance with the invention, at least one plastic tape is bonded to the bottom of a gussetted plastic bag over a region which includes, or is close to, the junctions between the gusset folds and the bottom seal. Preferably, two tapes areapplied to opposite sides of the bag or a single plastic tape is folded across the seal. The effect is to transfer the forces normally applied to the seal/gusset junctions to the tape so that the bag will no longer tear first in the areas of the twojunctions.
FIG. 6 is a bottom view of the T-shirt bag shown in FIG. 5 fully loaded.
FIG. 15 shows an embodiment of the invention in which a non-adhesive tape is employed.
A prior art T-shirt bag is shown in FIG. 1 for purposes of explanation. By way of example, the bag may be manufactured from an extruded tubular form made of polyethylene. The tube is then partially gussetted, forming an inner fold 10 and twoouter folds 12 on each side. The flattened, gussetted web, which includes outer panels 11 and 13, is next passed to a welding station to form a bottom seal 14 and an upper seal 16. The sealed web is then passed through a die cutting station in whichthe individual bags are cut from the web. The bags are then stacked (for example, in stacks of fifty bags) and each stack of bags cut to form cut-out regions 18 in the bags. As a result of the shape of the cut-out region 18, two handles 20 are formedin the gussetted side portions of the bag.
The gussetted bag contains two outer regions 22A, each of which contains four plies of film, and a central region 22B which contains only two plies. During the heat sealing step, sufficient heat must be applied to the bottom of the bag to weldall four layers in the regions 22A together. Practically, it is not possible to apply less heat to the region 22B where there are only two plies; as a result, application of the heat required to form the seal 14 in regions 22A produces excessive heat inthe region 22B. Because of this excessive heat, the seal 14 is weakened in the central region 22B.
The seal 14 is formed by a sealing bar which is moved into contact with the gussetted web as it is moved through a sealing station. The formation of the seal is dependent on the temperature of the bar, the dwell time of the bar on the web, andthe pressure applied by the bar. The thicker the plastic layers, the greater the heat and/or pressure required to form the seal line. Greater heat can be provided by increasing the temperature of the seal bar or the dwell time. Ordinarily, an increasein pressure is not a large factor. It is preferable to increase temperature substantially in order to avoid increasing dwell time which, of course, slows the manufacturing process. By way of example, if the thickness of the web is 15 microns, a sealbar heated to 350.degree. F. will optimally require a dwell time of 0.8 seconds at a pressure of 45 psi. If the thickness of the web is increased to 30 microns, the same dwell time can be obtained if the temperature of the seal bar is increased to450.degree. F. and the pressure increased minimally to 46 psi.
FIG. 3 illustrates the prior art T-shirt bag after it has been loaded and lifted by the handles 20. The contents of the bag will exert a force due to gravity indicated by the arrow F. Because the handles are attached to the bottom of the bag atthe junctions 24, the weight of the contents in the bag creates equal forces f.sub.1, and f.sub.2 which are applied in opposite directions primarily to the junctions. Consequently, these junctions are the areas of the bag which are most likely to fail(i.e. tear) if the weight in the bag is excessive.
As the gusset becomes deeper, the tendency of the junctions to fail increases. The area of the junctions is weakest when the bag is fully gussetted, i.e. when the junction of the inner folds 10 and the seal line 14 meet at the center of the sealline. On the other hand, deeper gussets are preferred because they allow wider handles 20. Wide handles are preferred because they can bear more weight; moreover, from the consumer's view point they are more comfortable.
As indicated above, the strength of a T-shirt bag can be increased by increasing the thickness of the film or the quality of the plastic, both of which increase the cost of the bag. This invention achieves superior results by providing areinforcement tape which takes up the forces tending to separate the junctions 24 when the bag is loaded. In accordance with the invention, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a tape 30 is bonded to the bottom of the bag across seal 14 and serves to absorb theforces applied to the junctions 24. The tape 30 is shown extending from point 30A to 30B. The length of the tape is not critical but the tape should be longer than the distance between the junctions 24 and, in general, the longer the tape 30, thegreater the reinforcement. Surprisingly, the tape enhances the strength of the bag more than a comparable increase in film thickness. In other words, a 15 micron bag having two 15 micron tapes is substantially less likely to fail at junctions 24 than a30 micron bag which provides the same thickness at the junctions.
It is contemplated that a single tape 30 may be folded over the bottom of the bag, but separate tapes may be applied to each side of the bag and the same result will be achieved in terms of reinforcing junctions 24. Some benefit is obtained ifonly the junction areas are taped by separate tapes, for example 1/2 inch square. A polypropylene tape having a pressure sensitive adhesive may be used, but a wide variety of materials are useful including the material from which the bag is made. Inplace of a pressure sensitive adhesive, a thermally activated adhesive coating may be employed or the tape itself may be made of a material which can be welded or sealed to the bag.
The dimensions of the tape also are not critical. The tape may extend about two mm above and below the seal. If a single tape is folded over the bottom, the tape should be wide enough to extend two mm above the seal on both sides of the bag.
Satisfactory results can be obtained by using only a single tape applied to one of the panels 11 or 13. Ordinarily, if the inner folds 10 of the unreinforced bag are pulled apart from the outer panels 11 and 13 (which are bonded together atjunctions 24 on seal line 14) the outer panels will start to tear at the points 24 at the same time. It has been observed that if a reinforcement tape is applied to only one of the panels 11 or 13, the tendency of both panels to tear is substantiallyreduced. Again, the dimensions of the tape are not critical and good results have been obtained with a tape which extends over both of the junctions 24 and which ranges in width from 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch.
There are a number of different processes and machines for manufacturing T-shirt bags. In the process referred to above where the individual bags are cut from the web and stacked, a conventional taping machine could be used to bond one or twotapes to the bottom seal of each bag just prior to stacking. As indicated above, instead of applying separate tapes, a single folded tape may also be applied.
In the illustrated embodiment, the seals 14 and 16 are formed about three mm away from the edge of the bag. In some processes, the bags are cut and sealed simultaneously by a hot knife in which case the seals are formed at the edges of the bag. The invention is equally applicable to this and other constructions as well. In fact, the invention would have utility in any case where a gussetted plastic bag is sealed after gussetting even if the bag does not include handles.
In some cases, T-shirt bags are provided in rolls with the individual bags being separated by a perforated separation line. The bags are dispensed one by one by tearing successive separation lines. In this case, the reinforcement tape inaccordance with the invention would be applied just above (in front of) the perforations, preferably with a separate tape on each side of the bag.
FIGS. 7-10 illustrate in schematic form a machine for applying two tapes to opposite sides of a bag during the manufacturing process.
In the typical T-shirt manufacturing process, the gussetted tube is sealed at its top and bottom (seals 16 and 14) and cut to form a blank 40 (see FIG. 9). A batch of blanks is then stacked, for example, fifty to a stack, and die cut to form thehandles 20. It is contemplated that the reinforcement tape 30 will be applied to a bag prior to the stacking and die cutting operation, although the invention is equally applicable to processes in which the tape is applied at other times during themanufacturing cycle.
As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, upper and lower plastic film strips 42 and 44, respectively, are passed through two tape forming machines 46 and 48. Each tape forming machine, 46, 48, forms a multiplicity of reinforcing tapes 30 of the desireddimensions within the strips 42 and 44. The machines 46 and 48 may be similar to label manufacturing machines and form the successive tapes 30 by scoring so that they are retained by the strips 42 and 44 yet can be easily removed in a tape applicationstation. This is reflected by the dashed lines which define the periphery of the individual tapes 30 within strip 42 in FIG. 8.
The scored strips 42, 44 are moved across a series of rollers 50 through upper and lower tape application stations 52 and 54, respectively. As explained below, the tapes 30 are applied to both sides of a T-shirt blank 40 which is supportedwithin a tray 56. The strips 42 and 44 with the reinforcing tapes 30 now removed are then passed around rollers 58 and wound into rolls 60 and 62.
The actual application of the tape is shown in FIGS. 9 and 10. FIG. 9 illustrates only the bottom tape application station 54, the upper station being its mirror image.
The tray 56 includes a cut out tape application region 64 and registration lips 66 which align the T-shirt blank 40 so that the lower seal 14 sits within the cut out region 64 and is accessible to the tapes as strips 42, 44 passes through thestations 52, 54. Each tape application station includes a vertical track 68 in which a pressure head 70 moves vertically. The area of the pressure head 70 corresponds to the area of an individual tape 30 and is connected to the end of a reciprocatingrod 72. Movement of the strips 42 and 44 is synchronized with the movement of the blank 40 and the pressure head 70, for example, in response to the optical sensing of a properly registered blank 40 within the tray 56. When the blank is properlypositioned, the pressure heads 70 are moved vertically in both of the stations 52 and 54 which punches the individual tapes 30 from the strips 42 and 44 and seals them under pressure across the bottom seal 14 as described above. Preferably, the heads 70are electrostatically charged so that after they remove the scored tape, the tapes 30 tend to cling to the heads until they have been applied to the bag. The tapes 30 may be sealed to the bag by a pressure sensitive adhesive or by a thermally activatedadhesive. If the latter, the pressure heads 70 in the stations 52 and 54 would be heated.
After the tapes 30 have been applied to the opposite sides of blank 40, the blank is removed and stacked for subsequent cutting of the handles. The apparatus used to position the blank 40 within tray 56 and remove the blank after the tapes havebeen applied may be conventional and, therefore, is not described in detail.
FIGS. 11, 12, and 13 show a device which can fold a single tape around the bottom of a blank 40. In this case, the tapes 30 are partially die cut from a single strip 42 which moves vertically. The device includes two heads 80 which areconnected at their inner ends to a central support rod 82 by pivotable connectors 84. The heads 80 are also connected to a pair of actuator bars 86 by a similar pivotable connection 88. When a T-shirt blank 40 is properly positioned within the supporttray 56, the mechanism moves from the FIG. 11 position to the FIG. 12 position thereby separating a tape 30 from the strip in which it was die cut. The central support rod 82 stops but the outer actuator bars 86 continue to move toward the blank 40causing the heads 80 to pivot about the connectors 84 as shown in FIG. 13. This action folds the tape 30 over the bottom of the T-shirt blank 40 and, at the end of the stroke, applies pressure causing the tape to adhere to the bag. The mechanism thenreturns to the initial position shown in FIG. 11 where it is in position to apply the next tape 30 to the next T-shirt blank 40 after it has been properly positioned within the tray 56.
Surprisingly, it has also been found that a tape 30 applied to one or both panels 11 and 13 need not overlap the seal line 14 to provide considerable reinforcement. Thus, as shown in FIG. 14, a tape 30 positioned slightly above the seal line (asshown in solid lines) or slightly below the seal line (as shown in dotted lines) will provide substantial reinforcement. For example, the tape may be positioned about 1 mm above or below the seal line.
A further embodiment of the invention is shown in FIG. 15. In this embodiment, as shown in dotted lines, a nonadhesive plastic strip 90 is thermally bonded to the bag along the seal line 14 when the seal line 14 is formed. The plastic strip 90can be the same material as the material from which the bag is made. Again, the length of the strip should be greater than the distance between the junctions 24. The width need only be sufficient to encompass the width of the seal line. In thepreferred embodiment, the thickness of the strip is about twice that of the thickness of the plastic film from which the T-shirt bag is manufactured; however, if the thickness is about half the thickness of the panels 11 and 13 the result issatisfactory. It has also been found that the junctions 24 of a T-shirt bag reinforced by a strip 90 which is half the thickness of the bag (e.g. 15 microns) are stronger than the junctions of a T-shirt bag made of the same plastic film which is twiceas thick (i.e. 30 microns). Further, satisfactory results are obtained if the strip is placed on the inside of the bags, e.g. between one or both panels 11 and 13 and the gusset folds.
The effect of the separate tape 30 or strip 90 is greater than the effect achieved by increasing the thickness of the bag at the seal line 14 which increases the plastic material available for melting and sealing, thereby increasing the strengthof the seal. The presence of the added layer of material provides greater strength than a comparable increase in film thickness.
Furthermore, referring to FIG. 1, in a standard T-shirt bag there are four layers of film in the regions 22A and two layers of film in region 22B. The thickness ratio in these two regions is thus 4 to 2. When strip 90 is added with a thicknesstwice that of the individual plies, the thickness of the gussetted areas 22A becomes equal to six layers while the thickness of area 22B becomes equal to the thickness of four layers. Hence, the thickness ratio is 6 to 4. Stated in other words, withthe reinforcement strip in place, the gussetted areas 22A are 1.5 times as thick as the ungussetted area 22B, whereas without the reinforcement strip, the gussetted portion is twice as thick as the ungussetted portion 22B. By improving (i.e. reducing)this thickness ratio, the strength of the junctions 24 is enhanced.


Sometimes regular emails can be mistaken for Spam due to a varying number of factors. In order to stop actual emails from being deleted or marked as Spam, you can adjust your Spam filter within your Mail Manager.
Delete: All Spam messages wil be deleted.
Do Note if you are using a mail client to check your mail, you will have to login to webmail to see the spam folder if you have selected the "Move into Webmail spam folder if available" option.


Cook pasta according to package directions. Meanwhile, in a large nonstick skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add bread crumbs; cook and stir until golden brown. Remove to a small bowl and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt remaining butter. Stir in flour until smooth. Gradually add milk; bring to a boil. Cook and stir until thickened, about 2 minutes. Reduce heat. Stir in process cheese until melted.
Drain pasta; add to cheese mixture. Cook and stir until heated through, 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese and bread crumbs.
1-1/4 cups: 661 calories, 36g fat (21g saturated fat), 121mg cholesterol, 1267mg sodium, 58g carbohydrate (11g sugars, 2g fiber), 27g protein.
I'd prepared this recipe when the December 2018 TOH issue arrived. This was a delicious recipe and I really enjoyed it! It was very simple to make!
I put the cheddar cheese in the sauce instead of as a garnish, but it was still really really yummy. I disagree with the person saying it's more expensive than the boxed version because of the amount per serving differance. So yummy!
This is the best Mac & cheese recipe I've found. It remains creamy even after frozen and reheated.
My family (and my teenage children's friends) all LOVE this recipe! In our home, it is much more cost effective to make this than to purchase a small box of prepared Veleeta mac & cheese, and so much smoother! It is a request when the basketball team shows up, as well as my daughter's friends. Thanks for the great recipe!
Tastes just like the Velveeta Mac and Cheese you buy in a box... but takes alot more work and costs more money. The fried panko bread crumbs were a very good addition. It was pretty good but we will not be making it again.
Our entire family loved this recipe. It's our favorite homemade mac and cheese recipe ever. We will definitely be making this again....and again.


Boston Engineering is looking to hire ThingWorx Consultants to support our growing Product Development Systems Services group. These roles are key to enabling the development of our customer's smart connected products and operations. Our team is growing at all levels from experienced IoT Solution Architects to entry level IoT developers.
Do you have a passion to connect the world? Or know someone who might be?
We don't care about your exact level of completed education, but you need to be able demonstrate the ability to develop IoT solutions for both smart connected products and smart connect operations.
Web Application Development Process: You must have a passion for solid web application development following common best practices.
IoT Platform: You'll need to leverage platforms such as PTC ThingWorx, AWS IoT, and Azure IoT.
Back End Technologies: You'll need to pull data from many different sources to create mashups leveraging OData, SQL, Web Services, jQuery, and more.
How is PTC ThingWorx different from AWS IoT and Azure IoT?
Boston Engineering provides product development consulting from concept through the commercialization and management of smart, connected products. The company's expertise includes commercial products, defense & security, and medical devices. Additionally, the Boston Business Journal has named Boston Engineering one of the top-10 robotics companies in Mass. for the past four consecutive years. Innovating since 1995, Boston Engineering is headquartered in Waltham, Mass. with an additional office at UMass Dartmouth's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship.


This spider was in a wooded area consisting mostly of pines. It was in an area several hundred yards from the Intercoastal Waterway. This area used to be a tomato farm but has been abandoned for several years. A friend bought the property for deer hunting. there are several driving paths through the woods. This spider had a web stretched between two trees across one of these driving trails. we slowly drove through it and the web stretched across the windshield. The spider crawled up on the roof and when we got back to the cabin it was hanging off the side of the car dead. I thought I had taken a photo of it beside a quarter but I can't find it. The spider was as big as any I have ever seen.
It is one of the Golden Silk Orb Weavers in the family Araneidae. In SC it is most likely Nephila clavipes. Have a look here: https://spiderid.com/spider/araneidae/nephila/clavipes/ for comparison.


text:
All posts for the day March 4th, 2012
Israel Political Brief March 4, 2012: President Barack Obama and PM Benjamin Netanyahu will meet under the shadow of Iran and their own histories
Obama and Netanyahu will meet under the shadow of Iran and their own histories
President Obama and Israeli President Shimon Peres share a warm exchange at the AIPAC policy conference in Washington, March 4, 2012. (Courtesy Office of President Shimon Peres)
WASHINGTON (JTA) — As if their own fraught history and the prospect of a nuclear Iran weren't enough, Barack Obama and Benjamin Netanyahu will bring to their meeting on Monday each nation's vexing and at times self-contradictory relationship with war.
Obama, facing what could be a tough reelection battle, must reconcile dueling American impulses: to stand up to bullies, and to keep away from protracted bloody involvements overseas.
Netanyahu must reconcile the contradiction that has dogged Israeli leaders since the birth of the Jewish state: the desire for friendship and validation, and the deep-seated belief that Jews can rely only on themselves.
The contradictions were evident both in President Obama's speech Sunday to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee and in Netanyahu's response.
Obama made it clear that Iran and its suspected drive to a nuclear weapon was the villain of this piece.
"No Israeli government can tolerate a nuclear weapon in the hands of a regime that denies the Holocaust, threatens to wipe Israel off the map and sponsors terrorist groups committed to Israel's destruction," he said.
The hall was silent, however, when Obama outlined the considerations that keep him insisting on trying all diplomatic options….READ MORE
Posted in American Politics, Benjamin Netanyahu, Iran, Israel News, Israeli Politics, Obama Presidency, US-Israel Relations
Tagged Barack Obama, Benjamin Netanyahu, Iran, Israel, White House Meeting
https://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/03/04/israel-political-brief-march-4-2012-president-barack-obama-and-pm-benjamin-netanyahu-will-meet-under-the-shadow-of-iran-and-their-own-histories/
Israel Political Brief March 4, 2012: PM Benjamin Netanyahu's Reactions to President Barack Obama's AIPAC Speech
Netanyahu welcomes Obama's statements on Israel's right to self-defense
PM Benjamin Netanyahu reacts postively to U.S. President Barack Obama's AIPAC speech; Peres meets with Obama for 35 minutes after speech.
רה"מ נתניהו מגיב לנאום הנשיא אובמה באייפק
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Sunday welcomed U.S. President Barack Obama's earlier speech at the AIPAC conference in Washington, saying that he appreciated more than anyone Obama's statement on Israel's right to defend itself by itself against any threat.
Speaking before a meeting with Jewish leaders in the Canadian capital Ottawa, Netanyahu noted positively Obama's statements that Iran should not be permitted to develop nuclear weapons and that all options remain on the table to prevent it from doing so.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (L) speaks during a news conference with Canada's Prime Minister Stephen Harper on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, March 2, 2012.
Photo by: Reuters
"I appreciate all of these statements and expect to discuss them tomorrow with President Obama," Netanyahu said.
Immediately after his speech at the AIPAC conference, Obama met for 35 minutes in a side room with President Shimon Peres. The two discussed both Iran and the Palestinians. After the meeting, Peres spoke by phone with Netanyahu and updated him on the meeting with Obama.
"It was an excellent meeting with President Obama," Peres said. "He reinforced the things he said in his speech and went into more details. I left with the feeling that he is determined to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons and he is very serious. Obama told me that Israel's security is an American national security interest. I didn't find him to even stutter. He is sharply clear and is not playing politics. I am sure that [Netanyahu] will be received very warmly in the White House tomorrow."
Netanyahu is to meet with Obama at the White House on Monday.
President Shimon Peres and U.S. President Barack Obama in Washington, March 4, 2012. Moshe Milner / GPO
Posted in AIPAC, AIPAC Conference, American Politics, Benjamin Netanyahu, Iran, Israel News, Israeli Politics, Obama Presidency, Shimon Peres, Speeches & Transcripts, US-Israel Relations
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Israel Political Brief March 4, 2012: Reactions in Israel to President Obama's Speech — Likud politicians mock Obama AIPAC speech
Likud politicians mock Obama AIPAC speech
Labor's Yacimovich calls the speech "unquestionably pro-Israel"; Livni blames Netanyahu for tensions.
Source: JPost, 3-4-12
By Marc Israel Sellem
Israeli reactions to US President Barack Obama's speech at the AIPAC Policy Conference in Washington on Sunday were divided along party lines.
Deputy Negev and Galilee Development Minister Ayoub Kara (Likud) criticized Obama for saying that too much bluster played into Iranian hands and suggesting that it led to higher gas prices.
Peres to AIPAC: Iran aims to control the Middle East
"There is a saying that it's easier to watch a fire from far away," Kara said. "We are facing an existential threat, not the US. If Israel doesn't bluster, the US will also be in danger, because Iran's missiles will reach them too. Israel is doing everything possible to keep the world safe, and it's unfortunate that the White House doesn't see things the way we see them here.".
Likud MK Danny Danon mocked Obama's promises to protect Israel's security. He said history had proven that Israel can rely only on itself.
"Looking back at the way the United States criticized Israel for destroying the nuclear reactor in Iraq, Israel must make its decisions based on its own good judgment," Danon said
Labor leader Shelly Yacimovich called Obama's speech unquestionably pro-Israel. In a speech in Herzliya, she wished Netanyahu well in his meeting with the president.
Opposition leader Tzipi Livni blamed tension between Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and Obama on Netanyahu. She predicted that there would be a large gap between Obama's praise for Israel in his speech and what he would say to Netanyahu behind closed doors.
"Relations between Israel and the US have become political during Netanyahu's term," she said. "Netanyahu made Israel an issue in the American election and it's a mistake. Netanyahu must understand that relations with with the US are an essential need. Our deterrence depends on it. He will be tested on whether he is able to draft the US into our interests or whether he will continue just manipulating internal American politics."
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Israel Political Brief March 4, 2012: President Barack Obama's AIPAC Speech Diplomacy still the way to stop Iran nukes, but military option on table
Obama: Diplomacy still the way to stop Iran nukes, but military option on table
President Obama said it was still possible to resolve Iran's suspected bid for a nuclear weapon through diplomacy, but added that a military option was still on the table and that containment was not an option.
"I firmly believe that an opportunity remains for diplomacy, backed by pressure, to succeed," Obama told the annual American Israel Public Affairs Committee policy conference on Sunday in Washington.
"The United States and Israel both assess that Iran does not yet have a nuclear weapon, and we are exceedingly vigilant in monitoring their program," he said. "Now the international community has a responsibility to use the time and space that exists."
The comments did not earn applause; there have been reports that Israel and AIPAC are pressing Obama to make the military option more explicit.
Obama did appear to ratchet up the military threat later in the speech, earning a standing ovation after saying that his policy is to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.
"Iran's leaders should have no doubt about the resolve of the United States, just as they should not doubt Israel's sovereign right to make its own decisions about what is required to meet its security needs," the U.S. leader said. "I have said that when it comes to preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, I will take no options off the table, and I mean what I say. That includes all elements of American power; a political effort aimed at isolating Iran; a diplomatic effort to sustain our coalition and ensure that the Iranian program is monitored; an economic effort to impose crippling sanctions; and, yes, a military effort to be prepared for any contingency.
"Iran's leaders should know that I do not have a policy of containment; I have a policy to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon."
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Full Text Israel Political Brief March 4, 2012: President Barack Obama's Speech to AIPAC American Israel Public Affairs Committee Policy Conference on Iran Transcript
President Obama Speaks at the AIPAC Policy Conference
Source: WH, 3-4-12
President Barack Obama delivers remarks to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) Policy Conference at the Washington Convention Center, Washington, D.C., March 4, 2012. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)
This morning, President Obama addressed the AIPAC Policy Conference in Washington, D.C., where he reaffirmed the strength of our Nation's special bond with Israel. Tomorrow, President Obama will hold a bi-lateral meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House.
During his remarks today, the President discussed the actions his Administration has taken to support Israel:
But as you examine my commitment, you don't just have to count on my words. You can look at my deeds. Because over the last three years, as President of the United States, I have kept my commitments to the state of Israel. At every crucial juncture – at every fork in the road – we have been there for Israel. Every single time.
Four years ago, I stood before you and said that "Israel's security is sacrosanct. It is non-negotiable." That belief has guided my actions as President. The fact is, my Administration's commitment to Israel's security has been unprecedented. Our military and intelligence cooperation has never been closer. Our joint exercises and training have never been more robust. Despite a tough budget environment, our security assistance has increased every year. We are investing in new capabilities. We're providing Israel with more advanced technology – the type of products and systems that only go to our closest friends and allies. And make no mistake: we will do what it takes to preserve Israel's Qualitative Military Edge – because Israel must always have the ability to defend itself, by itself, against any threat.
The President also discussed the importance of securing peace between Israelis and Palestinians – a goal shared by the Israeli government:
Of course, there are those who question not my security and diplomatic commitments, but my Administration's ongoing pursuit of peace between Israelis and Palestinians. So let me say this: I make no apologies for pursuing peace. Israel's own leaders understand the necessity of peace. Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defense Minister Barak, and President Peres – each of them have called for two states, a secure Israel that lives side by side with an independent Palestinian state.
I believe that peace is profoundly in Israel's security interest. The reality that Israel faces – from shifting demographics, to emerging technologies, to an extremely difficult international environment – demands a resolution of this issue. And I believe that peace with the Palestinians is consistent with Israel's founding values – because of our shared belief in self-determination; and because Israel's place as a Jewish and democratic state must be protected.
President Obama also discussed the United States and Israel's mutual interest in ensuring that Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons. As the President said: "Iran's leaders should know that I do not have a policy of containment; I have a policy to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon."
A nuclear-armed Iran is completely counter to Israel's security interests. But it is also counter to the national security interests of the United States. Indeed, the entire world has an interest in preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. A nuclear-armed Iran would thoroughly undermine the non-proliferation regime that we have done so much to build. There are risks that an Iranian nuclear weapon could fall into the hands of a terrorist organization. It is almost certain that others in the region would feel compelled to get their own nuclear weapon, triggering an arms race in one of the most volatile regions in the world. It would embolden a regime that has brutalized its own people, and it would embolden Iran's proxies, who have carried out terrorist attacks from the Levant to southwest Asia.
President of Israel Shimon Peres acknowledges recognition from President Barack Obama during President Obama's remarks to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) Policy Conference at the Washington Convention Center, Washington, D.C., March 4, 2012. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)
POLITICAL QUOTES & SPEECHES
Remarks by the President at AIPAC Policy Conference
11:10 A.M. EST
THE PRESIDENT: Thank you. Well, good morning, everyone.
Rosy, thank you for your kind words. I have never seen Rosy on the basketball court. I'll bet it would be a treat. (Laughter.) Rosy, you've been a dear friend of mine for a long time and a tireless advocate for the unbreakable bonds between Israel and the United States. And as you complete your term as President, I salute your leadership and your commitment. (Applause.)
I want to thank the board of directors. As always, I'm glad to see my long-time friends in the Chicago delegation. (Applause.) I also want to thank the members of Congress who are with us here today, and who will be speaking to you over the next few days. You've worked hard to maintain the partnership between the United States and Israel. And I especially want to thank my close friend, and leader of the Democratic National Committee, Debbie Wasserman Schultz. (Applause.)
I'm glad that my outstanding young Ambassador to Israel, Dan Shapiro, is in the house. (Applause.) I understand that Dan is perfecting his Hebrew on his new assignment, and I appreciate his constant outreach to the Israeli people. And I'm also pleased that we're joined by so many Israeli officials, including Ambassador Michael Oren. (Applause.) And tomorrow, I'm very much looking forward to welcoming Prime Minister Netanyahu and his delegation back to the White House. (Applause.)
Every time I come to AIPAC, I'm especially impressed to see so many young people here. (Applause.) You don't yet get the front seats — I understand. (Laughter.) You have to earn that. But students from all over the country who are making their voices heard and engaging deeply in our democratic debate. You carry with you an extraordinary legacy of more than six decades of friendship between the United States and Israel. And you have the opportunity — and the responsibility — to make your own mark on the world. And for inspiration, you can look to the man who preceded me on this stage, who's being honored at this conference — my friend, President Shimon Peres. (Applause.)
Shimon was born a world away from here, in a shtetl in what was then Poland, a few years after the end of the first world war. But his heart was always in Israel, the historic homeland of the Jewish people. (Applause.) And when he was just a boy he made his journey across land and sea — toward home.
In his life, he has fought for Israel's independence, and he has fought for peace and security. As a member of the Haganah and a member of the Knesset, as a Minister of Defense and Foreign Affairs, as a Prime Minister and as President — Shimon helped build the nation that thrives today: the Jewish state of Israel. (Applause.) But beyond these extraordinary achievements, he has also been a powerful moral voice that reminds us that right makes might — not the other way around. (Applause.)
Shimon once described the story of the Jewish people by saying it proved that, "slings, arrows and gas chambers can annihilate man, but cannot destroy human values, dignity, and freedom." And he has lived those values. (Applause.) He has taught us to ask more of ourselves, and to empathize more with our fellow human beings. I am grateful for his life's work and his moral example. And I'm proud to announce that later this spring, I will invite Shimon Peres to the White House to present him with America's highest civilian honor — the Presidential Medal of Freedom. (Applause.)
In many ways, this award is a symbol of the broader ties that bind our nations. The United States and Israel share interests, but we also share those human values that Shimon spoke about: A commitment to human dignity. A belief that freedom is a right that is given to all of God's children. An experience that shows us that democracy is the one and only form of government that can truly respond to the aspirations of citizens.
America's Founding Fathers understood this truth, just as Israel's founding generation did. President Truman put it well, describing his decision to formally recognize Israel only minutes after it declared independence. He said, "I had faith in Israel before it was established. I believe it has a glorious future before it — as not just another sovereign nation, but as an embodiment of the great ideals of our civilization."
For over six decades, the American people have kept that faith. Yes, we are bound to Israel because of the interests that we share — in security for our communities, prosperity for our people, the new frontiers of science that can light the world. But ultimately it is our common ideals that provide the true foundation for our relationship. That is why America's commitment to Israel has endured under Democratic and Republican Presidents, and congressional leaders of both parties. (Applause.) In the United States, our support for Israel is bipartisan, and that is how it should stay. (Applause.)
AIPAC's work continually nurtures this bond. And because of AIPAC's effectiveness in carrying out its mission, you can expect that over the next several days, you will hear many fine words from elected officials describing their commitment to the U.S.-Israel relationship. But as you examine my commitment, you don't just have to count on my words. You can look at my deeds. Because over the last three years, as President of the United States, I have kept my commitments to the state of Israel. At every crucial juncture — at every fork in the road — we have been there for Israel. Every single time. (Applause.)
Four years ago, I stood before you and said that, "Israel's security is sacrosanct. It is non-negotiable." That belief has guided my actions as President. The fact is, my administration's commitment to Israel's security has been unprecedented. Our military and intelligence cooperation has never been closer. (Applause.) Our joint exercises and training have never been more robust. Despite a tough budget environment, our security assistance has increased every single year. (Applause.) We are investing in new capabilities. We're providing Israel with more advanced technology — the types of products and systems that only go to our closest friends and allies. And make no mistake: We will do what it takes to preserve Israel's qualitative military edge — because Israel must always have the ability to defend itself, by itself, against any threat. (Applause.)
This isn't just about numbers on a balance sheet. As a senator, I spoke to Israeli troops on the Lebanese border. I visited with families who've known the terror of rocket fire in Sderot. And that's why, as President, I have provided critical funding to deploy the Iron Dome system that has intercepted rockets that might have hit homes and hospitals and schools in that town and in others. (Applause.) Now our assistance is expanding Israel's defensive capabilities, so that more Israelis can live free from the fear of rockets and ballistic missiles. Because no family, no citizen, should live in fear.
And just as we've been there with our security assistance, we've been there through our diplomacy. When the Goldstone report unfairly singled out Israel for criticism, we challenged it. (Applause.) When Israel was isolated in the aftermath of the flotilla incident, we supported them. (Applause.) When the Durban conference was commemorated, we boycotted it, and we will always reject the notion that Zionism is racism. (Applause.)
When one-sided resolutions are brought up at the Human Rights Council, we oppose them. When Israeli diplomats feared for their lives in Cairo, we intervened to save them. (Applause.) When there are efforts to boycott or divest from Israel, we will stand against them. (Applause.) And whenever an effort is made to de-legitimize the state of Israel, my administration has opposed them. (Applause.) So there should not be a shred of doubt by now — when the chips are down, I have Israel's back. (Applause.)
Which is why, if during this political season — (laughter) — you hear some questions regarding my administration's support for Israel, remember that it's not backed up by the facts. And remember that the U.S.-Israel relationship is simply too important to be distorted by partisan politics. America's national security is too important. Israel's security is too important. (Applause.)
Of course, there are those who question not my security and diplomatic commitments, but rather my administration's ongoing pursuit of peace between Israelis and Palestinians. So let me say this: I make no apologies for pursuing peace. Israel's own leaders understand the necessity of peace. Prime Minister Netanyahu, Defense Minister Barak, President Peres — each of them have called for two states, a secure Israel that lives side by side with an independent Palestinian state. I believe that peace is profoundly in Israel's security interest. (Applause.)
The reality that Israel faces — from shifting demographics, to emerging technologies, to an extremely difficult international environment — demands a resolution of this issue. And I believe that peace with the Palestinians is consistent with Israel's founding values — because of our shared belief in self-determination, and because Israel's place as a Jewish and democratic state must be protected. (Applause.)
Of course, peace is hard to achieve. There's a reason why it's remained elusive for six decades. The upheaval and uncertainty in Israel's neighborhood makes it that much harder — from the horrific violence raging in Syria, to the transition in Egypt. And the division within the Palestinian leadership makes it harder still — most notably, with Hamas's continued rejection of Israel's very right to exist.
But as hard as it may be, we should not, and cannot, give in to cynicism or despair. The changes taking place in the region make peace more important, not less. And I've made it clear that there will be no lasting peace unless Israel's security concerns are met. (Applause.) That's why we continue to press Arab leaders to reach out to Israel, and will continue to support the peace treaty with Egypt. That's why — just as we encourage Israel to be resolute in the pursuit of peace — we have continued to insist that any Palestinian partner must recognize Israel's right to exist, and reject violence, and adhere to existing agreements. (Applause.) And that is why my administration has consistently rejected any efforts to short-cut negotiations or impose an agreement on the parties. (Applause.)
As Rosy noted, last year, I stood before you and pledged that, "the United States will stand up against efforts to single Israel out at the United Nations." As you know, that pledge has been kept. (Applause.) Last September, I stood before the United Nations General Assembly and reaffirmed that any lasting peace must acknowledge the fundamental legitimacy of Israel and its security concerns. I said that America's commitment to Israel's security is unshakeable, our friendship with Israel is enduring, and that Israel must be recognized. No American President has made such a clear statement about our support for Israel at the United Nations at such a difficult time. People usually give those speeches before audiences like this one — not before the General Assembly. (Applause.)
And I must say, there was not a lot of applause. (Laughter.) But it was the right thing to do. (Applause.) And as a result, today there is no doubt — anywhere in the world — that the United States will insist upon Israel's security and legitimacy. (Applause.) That will be true as we continue our efforts to pursue — in the pursuit of peace. And that will be true when it comes to the issue that is such a focus for all of us today: Iran's nuclear program — a threat that has the potential to bring together the worst rhetoric about Israel's destruction with the world's most dangerous weapons.
Let's begin with a basic truth that you all understand: No Israeli government can tolerate a nuclear weapon in the hands of a regime that denies the Holocaust, threatens to wipe Israel off the map, and sponsors terrorist groups committed to Israel's destruction. (Applause.) And so I understand the profound historical obligation that weighs on the shoulders of Bibi Netanyahu and Ehud Barak, and all of Israel's leaders.
A nuclear-armed Iran is completely counter to Israel's security interests. But it is also counter to the national security interests of the United States. (Applause.)
Indeed, the entire world has an interest in preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. A nuclear-armed Iran would thoroughly undermine the non-proliferation regime that we've done so much to build. There are risks that an Iranian nuclear weapon could fall into the hands of a terrorist organization. It is almost certain that others in the region would feel compelled to get their own nuclear weapon, triggering an arms race in one of the world's most volatile regions. It would embolden a regime that has brutalized its own people, and it would embolden Iran's proxies, who have carried out terrorist attacks from the Levant to southwest Asia.
And that is why, four years ago, I made a commitment to the American people, and said that we would use all elements of American power to pressure Iran and prevent it from acquiring a nuclear weapon. And that is what we have done. (Applause.)
When I took office, the efforts to apply pressure on Iran were in tatters. Iran had gone from zero centrifuges spinning to thousands, without facing broad pushback from the world. In the region, Iran was ascendant — increasingly popular, and extending its reach. In other words, the Iranian leadership was united and on the move, and the international community was divided about how to go forward.
And so from my very first months in office, we put forward a very clear choice to the Iranian regime: a path that would allow them to rejoin the community of nations if they meet their international obligations, or a path that leads to an escalating series of consequences if they don't. In fact, our policy of engagement — quickly rebuffed by the Iranian regime — allowed us to rally the international community as never before, to expose Iran's intransigence, and to apply pressure that goes far beyond anything that the United States could do on our own.
Because of our efforts, Iran is under greater pressure than ever before. Some of you will recall, people predicted that Russia and China wouldn't join us to move toward pressure. They did. And in 2010 the U.N. Security Council overwhelmingly supported a comprehensive sanctions effort. Few thought that sanctions could have an immediate bite on the Iranian regime. They have, slowing the Iranian nuclear program and virtually grinding the Iranian economy to a halt in 2011. Many questioned whether we could hold our coalition together as we moved against Iran's Central Bank and oil exports. But our friends in Europe and Asia and elsewhere are joining us. And in 2012, the Iranian government faces the prospect of even more crippling sanctions.
That is where we are today — because of our work. Iran is isolated, its leadership divided and under pressure. And by the way, the Arab Spring has only increased these trends, as the hypocrisy of the Iranian regime is exposed, and its ally — the Assad regime — is crumbling.
Of course, so long as Iran fails to meet its obligations, this problem remains unresolved. The effective implementation of our policy is not enough — we must accomplish our objective. (Applause.) And in that effort, I firmly believe that an opportunity still remains for diplomacy — backed by pressure — to succeed.
The United States and Israel both assess that Iran does not yet have a nuclear weapon, and we are exceedingly vigilant in monitoring their program. Now, the international community has a responsibility to use the time and space that exists. Sanctions are continuing to increase, and this July — thanks to our diplomatic coordination — a European ban on Iranian oil imports will take hold. (Applause.) Faced with these increasingly dire consequences, Iran's leaders still have the opportunity to make the right decision. They can choose a path that brings them back into the community of nations, or they can continue down a dead end.
And given their history, there are, of course, no guarantees that the Iranian regime will make the right choice. But both Israel and the United States have an interest in seeing this challenge resolved diplomatically. After all, the only way to truly solve this problem is for the Iranian government to make a decision to forsake nuclear weapons. That's what history tells us.
Moreover, as President and Commander-in-Chief, I have a deeply held preference for peace over war. (Applause.) I have sent men and women into harm's way. I've seen the consequences of those decisions in the eyes of those I meet who've come back gravely wounded, and the absence of those who don't make it home. Long after I leave this office, I will remember those moments as the most searing of my presidency. And for this reason, as part of my solemn obligation to the American people, I will only use force when the time and circumstances demand it. And I know that Israeli leaders also know all too well the costs and consequences of war, even as they recognize their obligation to defend their country.
We all prefer to resolve this issue diplomatically. Having said that, Iran's leaders should have no doubt about the resolve of the United States — (applause) — just as they should not doubt Israel's sovereign right to make its own decisions about what is required to meet its security needs. (Applause.)
I have said that when it comes to preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, I will take no options off the table, and I mean what I say. (Applause.) That includes all elements of American power: A political effort aimed at isolating Iran; a diplomatic effort to sustain our coalition and ensure that the Iranian program is monitored; an economic effort that imposes crippling sanctions; and, yes, a military effort to be prepared for any contingency. (Applause.)
Iran's leaders should understand that I do not have a policy of containment; I have a policy to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. (Applause.) And as I have made clear time and again during the course of my presidency, I will not hesitate to use force when it is necessary to defend the United States and its interests. (Applause.)
Moving forward, I would ask that we all remember the weightiness of these issues; the stakes involved for Israel, for America, and for the world. Already, there is too much loose talk of war. Over the last few weeks, such talk has only benefited the Iranian government, by driving up the price of oil, which they depend on to fund their nuclear program. For the sake of Israel's security, America's security, and the peace and security of the world, now is not the time for bluster. Now is the time to let our increased pressure sink in, and to sustain the broad international coalition we have built. Now is the time to heed the timeless advice from Teddy Roosevelt: Speak softly; carry a big stick. (Applause.) And as we do, rest assured that the Iranian government will know our resolve, and that our coordination with Israel will continue.
These are challenging times. But we've been through challenging times before, and the United States and Israel have come through them together. Because of our cooperation, citizens in both our countries have benefited from the bonds that bring us together. I'm proud to be one of those people. In the past, I've shared in this forum just why those bonds are so personal for me: the stories of a great uncle who helped liberate Buchenwald, to my memories of returning there with Elie Wiesel; from sharing books with President Peres to sharing seders with my young staff in a tradition that started on the campaign trail and continues in the White House; from the countless friends I know in this room to the concept of tikkun olam that has enriched and guided my life. (Applause.)
As Harry Truman understood, Israel's story is one of hope. We may not agree on every single issue — no two nations do, and our democracies contain a vibrant diversity of views. But we agree on the big things — the things that matter. And together, we are working to build a better world — one where our people can live free from fear; one where peace is founded upon justice; one where our children can know a future that is more hopeful than the present.
There is no shortage of speeches on the friendship between the United States and Israel. But I'm also mindful of the proverb, "A man is judged by his deeds, not his words." So if you want to know where my heart lies, look no further than what I have done — to stand up for Israel; to secure both of our countries; and to see that the rough waters of our time lead to a peaceful and prosperous shore. (Applause.)
Thank you very much, everybody. God bless you. God bless the people of Israel. God bless the United States of America. (Applause.)
Posted in AIPAC, AIPAC Conference, Obama Presidency, Speeches & Transcripts
Tagged AIPAC Policy Conference, American Israel Public Affairs Committee, Barack Obama, Iran
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Israel Political Brief March 4, 2012: Obama to AIPAC: 'Already there is too much loose talk of war'
Obama to AIPAC: 'Already there is too much loose talk of war'
Source: National Journal, 3-4-12
AP Photo/Susan Walsh
President Barack Obama.
President Obama told the pro-Israel lobby AIPAC that while containment of a nuclear Iran was not an option, there was "already too much loose talk of war."
Speaking to the American Israel Public Affairs Committee which began its annual convention Sunday, Obama told the audience to look at the last three years of his tenure as President, and his administration's support of Israel.
"Our military and intelligence cooperation has never been closer. Our joint exercises and training have never been more robust. Despite a tough budget environment, our security assistance has increased every year," Obama said. "We are investing in new capabilities. We're providing Israel with more advanced technology – the type of products and systems that only go to our closest friends and allies. And make no mistake: we will do what it takes to preserve Israel's Qualitative Military Edge – because Israel must always have the ability to defend itself, by itself, against any threat."
President Obama said he preferred to resolve the nuclear crisis with Iran through diplomatic and economic means. "I would ask that we all remember the weightiness of these issues; the stakes involved for Israel, for America, and for the world. Already there is too much loose talk of war."…READ MORE
Posted in AIPAC, AIPAC Conference, American Politics, Benjamin Netanyahu, Iran, Israeli Politics, Obama Presidency, Shimon Peres, US-Israel Relations
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Full Text Israel Political Brief March 4, 2012: Israeli President Shimon Peres Speech at AIPAC / American Israel Public Affairs Committee Policy Conference There is No Space Between United States, Israel on Iran — Transcript
Pres. Shimon Peres: There is No Space Between United States, Israel on Iran
Remarks as prepared from Israeli President Shimon Peres at the 2012 AIPAC Policy Conference in Washington, D.C.
As The President of the State of Israel I came here first and foremost to say on behalf of my people: Toda. Thank You.
Thank you President Obama, for being such a good friend. Thank you AIPAC, for your dedication and excellence. It is great to be here. To be together. Strong and united. I see old friends and new ones. I see many young faces. The future belongs to you. Israel loves you. I am moved by your generous tribute.
I stand here, before you, a hopeful man. Proud to be Jewish, Proud to be Israeli, Proud to be there at the birth of Israel, Proud to have served it for 65 years, Proud of our alliance with the United States. Israel, like America, was conceived as an idea, Born in defiance of history; Creating a new world by drawing on the values of the past and the innovations of the future.
Friends, the restoration of Jewish statehood after two thousand years in exile – is a historic miracle. We started as a doubt and wound up as a certainty. We had to fight six wars in six decades. We did not lose one. We never will. We can not afford it. We had to defend ourselves. Self-defense is our right and obligation.
With little land, water or resources, Israel grew tenfold in population. Fifty-fold in gross domestic product. Israel's high-tech and innovation enriches the world its agriculture makes deserts green. Israel built new villages, new cities, new universities, new theatres and cultural centers. Our children are speaking the language of the prophets. Hebrew literature is flourishing. From a dispersed people we became a united democracy. No day of war ever interrupted a day of Democracy.
Dear Friends, permit me a personal note. Fate placed me in the eye of the storm. I was eleven years old when my beloved grandfather, Rabbi Tzvi Melzer, accompanied me to the train-station on my way to Israel. He hugged me and whispered in my ear only three words, "Shimon…. stay Jewish." Those were his last words to me. I never saw him again.
In 1942, when the Nazis arrived to his village, they forced my Grandfather, together with the remaining Jews into the wooden synagogue and set it on fire. No one survived. Not one. What remained was my Grandfather's legacy, His last words to me "Stay Jewish."
I was privileged to work with the father of our nation, my mentor, David Ben-Gurion. For me, Ben Gurion's great leadership with my Grandfather's legacy became my compass. That compass is comprised of four core values: Our moral code. Our pursuit of peace and security. Our quest for knowledge. Our alliance with America.
The moral code, the return to the Book and its values, enabled the Jewish people to survive, for four thousand years. Not because of quantity – Because of quality. Not due to thousands of guns – but due to Ten Commandments. We are guided by the call of our Prophets, to me it means: To be just. To do justice. To never deny justice to others.
The pursuit of peace, for us, is not a passing opportunity it is a moral imperative. It is the tenet of our national security. To make peace, Israel must be strong. Let me assure you, Israel is strong.
The Middle East is undergoing its greatest storm. With horrible bloodshed in Syria, where a tyrant is killing his people, killing children. I admire the courage of the Syrian people. We wish them peace and freedom. In spite of the storm, we have to reach out to the young generation in the Arab world, to those who strive for freedom, democracy and peace. The Palestinians are our neighbors for life. Peace can and must be achieved. A peace based on a Two State Solution: A Jewish state – Israel, An Arab state – Palestine.
It was accepted by past and present Israeli Prime ministers and American presidents: Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama. The principle of "The Two State" solution is a paramount Israeli interest.
We want to preserve an Israel that is Jewish, democratic and attractive. I meet from time to time with President Abbas and PM Fayyad. They need and want peace. I believe that peace is possible.
They are our partners for peace. Not Hamas.
A peace that is a dream for both of us, is a nightmare for the Ayatollahs in Iran. Iran is an evil, cruel, morally corrupt regime. It is based on destruction. and is an affront to human dignity. Iran is the center. The sponsor. The financer of world terror. Iran is a danger to the entire world. It threatens Berlin as well as Madrid, Delhi as well as Bangkok. Not just Israel. Iran's ambition is to control the Middle East, so it can control a major part of the world's economy. It must be stopped. And it will be stopped.
Israel experienced the horrors of war. It does not seek it. Peace is always our first option. But, if we are forced to fight, trust me, we shall prevail.
President Obama is leading and implementing, an international complex and decisive policy, imposing economic and political sanctions against Iran. President Obama made it clear that the US will not permit Iran to become nuclear. That containment is not a sustainable policy, all options are on the table.
The United States and Israel share the same goal – to prevent Iran from developing a nuclear weapon. There is no space between us. Our message is clear: Iran will not develop a nuclear weapon.
The quest for knowledge defines Jewish history. Judaism is a constant debate. It is about asking the right questions. It is about being a liberal and pluralistic society. I believe, Jews are never satisfied because they are always seeking new answers. A better tomorrow, Tikun Olam.
I believe that the next decade will be the most scientific, the most dramatic chapter in human history. It will expose possibilities that today sound like science fiction. Its center will be brain research. The more we shall know about ourselves, the more we shall be able to control ourselves. In a global world without a global government self-control is vital.
In a world of science and knowledge the Jewish people and Israel have an exciting role to play. Much to contribute.
Ladies and Gentlemen, members of Congress,
America was, is, and will remain the indispensable leader of the free world. The indispensable friend of our people. Today more than ever, the world needs America.
I have had the privilege to meet all American Presidents in the last fifty years, Democrats and Republicans. I was strongly impressed by their deep commitment. Their care for Israel. That commitment was and is bipartisan.
Mr. President, members of the Administration, members of Congress on both sides of the aisle, we are forever grateful for your unwavering support of the unbreakable alliance between the US and Israel.
I first met President Barack Obama, our great friend, when he was a Senator from Illinois. I saw before me a born leader. His care and devotion to Israel's security were evident.
I know your commitment to Israel is deep and profound. Under your leadership, security cooperation between the US and Israel has reached its highest level.
We have a friend in the White House. He reflects the values that make America great and make Israel secure. Thank you President Obama on behalf of my people.
Soon I will return home. Great challenges and promising opportunities await us. Thanks to your love and commitment and America's great friendship. I return home, much more hopeful much more encouraged.
God Bless America. God Bless Israel. Shalom.
Posted in AIPAC, AIPAC Conference, Iran, Israeli Politics, Shimon Peres, Speeches & Transcripts
Tagged AIPAC, American Israel Public Affairs Committee, Barack Obama, Iran, Shimon Peres, United States
https://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/03/04/full-text-israel-political-brief-march-4-2012-israeli-president-shimon-peres-speech-at-aipac-american-israel-public-affairs-committee-policy-conference-there-is-no-space-between-united-states-i/
Israel Political Brief March 4, 2012: Liz Cheney & Jane Harman sparring over President Obama at AIPAC
AIPAC confab starts with sparring over Obama
Former Republican and Democratic officials sparred at the AIPAC policy conference over President Obama's commitment to protecting Israel.
Liz Cheney, a deputy assistant secretary of state for Near East affairs in the George W. Bush administration, and Jane Harman, a former congresswoman from California who for years was the top Democrat on the U.S. House of Representatives Intelligence Committee, during a panel Sunday on the Middle East that opened the American Israel Public Affairs Committee conference in Washington kept circling back to the threat of Iran and sparred over whether Obama would stand by Israel as tensions with Iran intensified.
Cheney, the daughter of former Vice President Dick Cheney, said "everyone in the room understands" that Obama has made statements "more focused on containing Israeli actions than they have been on containing Iran." Harman countered that "this administration has done more than any in history to help Israel protect itself," citing unprecedented levels of defense assistance and close cooperation on missile defense.
She noted an interview in The Atlantic last week with Obama in which the president said he "had Israel's back" and emphasized that he was not bluffing about a possible military option with Iran.
Harman also delivered subtle digs at the administration that Cheney served, saying the wars it started in Iraq and Afghanistan left the region "unsettled" and had "cost dearly in treasure and lives." She noted the pro-Iranian tilt of the current Iraq, calling it "very troubling."
Cheney concluded her remarks, "There is no president who has done more to delegitimize and destabilize the State of Israel in recent history than President Obama."
Harman shot back that it was a "grave mistake" to "turn support of Israel into a political football."…READ MORE
Posted in AIPAC, AIPAC Conference, Iran, Obama Presidency
Tagged AIPAC, AIPAC Policy Conference, American Israel Public Affairs Committee, Barack Obama, Israel, Jane Harman, Liz Cheney
https://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/03/04/liz-cheney-jane-harman-sparring-over-president-obama-at-aipac/
Israel Political Brief March 4-6, 2012: Haaretz's Live Coverage of the AIPAC Policy Conference 2012
Live on Haaretz: AIPAC Policy Conference 2012
Haaretz's live streaming, blogging and Tweeting of the largest AIPAC conference of all time, featuring Peres and Obama as opening speakers
Since early Sunday morning, a long line has curled around the largest convention center in Washington D.C.
This year's AIPAC (American Israel Political Action Committee) Policy Conference is the biggest of all time.
More than 13,000 people showed up at the opening event of the conference, where Israeli President Shimon Peres and U.S. President Barack Obama are set to deliver speeches.
It is no wonder AIPAC is the third largest lobby in the United States. Thousands of people from all across the U.S. – most, but not all of them Jews – come to take part in the annual conference.
Jews were not the only ones to make it to Washington this year. Among the crowd are Christians, African-Americans and Latinos, as well.
The convention center's main hall is decorated with the American stars and stripes, alongside the Israeli flag's blue and white.
Even the pyrotechnics, the lighting and video streaming met the expectations of conference participants.This is the kind of event can only be found in the U.S.
On this page you will find live streaming, blogging and Tweeting of the event….READ MORE
Posted in AIPAC, AIPAC Conference, American Politics, Israel News, Israeli Politics
Tagged AIPAC Policy Conference, American Israel Public Affairs Committee, Bloging, Haaretz, Live Coverage, Tweeting
https://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/03/04/haaretz-live-coverage-of-the-aipac-policy-conference-2012/
Israel Political Brief March 4, 2012: President Shimon Peres to tell AIPAC: Israel not 'rushing into war' with Iran
Peres to tell AIPAC: Israel not 'rushing into war'
The Israeli president will also thank Obama for the assistance he has given Israel during the three-and-a-half years of his presidency.
President Shimon Peres will meet with President Barack Obama in the U.S. capital on Sunday. Peres will also tell delegates of pro-Israel lobby AIPAC that Israel is not rushing into a war, but will defend itself if it has to.
Ahead of his meeting with the American leader, Peres will deliver a speech to AIPAC in which he will express his support for, and faith in, the friendship between Israel and the United States. He will also thank Obama for the political and security assistance he has given Israel during the three-and-a-half years of his presidency to date.
President Shimon Peres.
Photo by: GPO
Sources close to Peres told Haaretz on Saturady that the Israeli president's speech will focus mainly on the debt that Israel owes the U.S., the American people and Obama for the close ties between the two countries.
Peres will tell delegates attending the AIPAC conference that Israel should "get back to the basics" of the Israeli-American relationship, and that "sometimes it does no harm to say 'Thank you'." Peres will conclude his speech by saying he is "confident that the United States will always stand by Israel."
Peres will also dedicate a large portion of his speech to Iran, telling delegates that "Israel is not rushing into war. We are a country that always seeks out peace and peace is always our preferred option, but our enemies should make no mistakes. We have fought six wars that were forced upon us and we have won them all. If another war is forced upon us, we will fight it and we will win it."
Peres will also talk about the importance of renewing negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians. Peace, he will say, is not just in Israel's interest, it is "a moral duty for the Jewish people."…READ MORE
Posted in AIPAC, AIPAC Conference, American Politics, Israeli Politics, Obama Presidency, Shimon Peres
Tagged AIPAC, Barack Obama, Iran, Israel, Shimon Peres, United States
https://togetherwithisrael.wordpress.com/2012/03/04/israel-political-brief-march-4-2012-president-shimon-peres-to-tell-aipac-israel-not-rushing-into-war/

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


South Indian Wedding Traditions: – The word South Indian is a broad term and it may refer to Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, or Malayalam. As the language differs their tradition and customs also differ to a great extent. The multi-cultural fare starts with bunches of plantain trees, fresh mango leaves and farm grown marigolds, embellished coconuts, brass lamps, temple bells also embellish as wedding décor.
The plush of Kanjeevaram sarees, the uniquely designed blouses, and the sweet temple jewelry are demure of the south Indian tradition. The muhurtham ceremony is usually conducted in the early morning session with the ritual proceedings as the alignment of starts and traditional calendars play a vital role.
These days' people are ready to try various fusion weddings. You may expect the following traditions while attending south Indian weddings. The white shirt and the dhoti has its own elegant look, wake up early to witness the marriage, the pre-wedding and the follow-up rituals may take a long time, the rituals are pretty loud affairs accompanied with music, the food is served in a traditional banana leaf and it is supposedly consumed with the hand, there is a sequence of order to be followed right fro, eating to folding the leaf. Arranged marriage still very much exists in South India and if you are an eligible person be ready to find your suitable partner.


My sympathies go out to these Harrah's Workers in Metropolis who lost their jobs recently. What happened to smoking bans do not hurt businesses?
Just more proof that my side is right, and antis are a bunch of liars.
METROPOLIS, Ill. -- Officials of Harrah's Metropolis riverboat casino claim Illinois' new smoking ban has resulted in the layoff of about 30 jobs at the casino.
General manager Mike Rich says a "national economic slowdown" also bears some of the blame for the layoffs.
Rich says the casino, which employs almost 1,000 residents of Illinois and western Kentucky, has no plans for additional layoffs.
This post was really helpful for me !


You've decided to send up-to-date email campaigns and stand out from the crowd of email messages. Finally, you made a decision to use a unique, eye-catching design for your mailings. That's great, and congratulations! We recently talked about attractive email signature, today we are going to talk about the right design of an entire email and how to create an email template that is both pleasing to the eye and efficient in terms of conversion.
A high priority of email template design lies in recognizability, because your template should inherit (but not duplicate) your website design. If you want to get an email template that differs from your website style, or a topical template (a greeting card template for a holiday, and so on), please let us know via email.
What is the difference between your email template and your website?
You are not allowed to use large background images, because this kind of background would not be visible to one segment of your recipients, and to the other part, it might be duplicated across email width and height. I doubt you really want this.
You cannot use Javasscript or CSS that is activated from a header; as a result, there cannot be any sliders in your email template. It's possible to achieve a similar effect using an animated .gif image. But in this case your email will be much "heavier", since some mail clients may not detect animated images. Some of them will show the first slide only.
We recommend avoiding the use of large images for your email template, particularly in a header — this is only permitted if you need to put the image it there for a special purpose (for example, to draw the client's attention to a limited-time offer). For example, alarge constant, large header may discourage recipients from scrolling down, as they receive "identical" emails regularly.
Do not use non-standard fonts in your email template. If the recipient's mail client does not have the font you choose, this font will be changed into another one, and "broken" page proofs may appear.
A very large background image is a point of issue.
Do not use many exclamation marks !!!!, even if you want to emphasize a certain phrase. It's better to highlight important text in bold.
Always specify width and height for images. These attributes should correspond to the actual size of the image.
Do not try to fill a single email message with a full load of information about you and your company (for example, price lists, news, activity description, links to related articles, and so on). Theoretically, your email message should fit on one screen. Be smarter — build your email marketing strategy in the best way, placing the most interesting content on the first place, and a recipient will notice it. Divide your information into multiple mailings and form a series of email campaigns. Send actual prices only, and favorable offers.
Do you want to get feedback and your subscribers' personal data? What should you do for this? Of course, add a form. But you again need to restrict yourself to the main requirements of email messages. This may be the simplest form that you can generate using HTML code; but without verifying data correctness, without an error message, cryptographically unsafe, and with open data transmission. It goes without saying that the form handler should be placed on your website.
Have some empathy for your recipients – do not make them take such a risk. It would better to add a noticeable button that is linked to a webpage with your form.
Use a pre-header. This is information displayed right after the email theme, when the message is not opened, but displays in a recipient's inbox folder. Very often, this information is presented with an "alt" image attribute, company name, or even an unsubscribe link. Do not do that. Use the pre-header to your benefit: for example, write an extended email subject idea in it.
Use a single-column layout. If you want to add hot news into your email delivery, it's better to insert it into the bottom of your email message. There must not be any news parallel to your message main content.
It's preferable to place no more than two products in a row, because while scaling and proportion wheel, message content will be more readable.
Use large buttons. After several attempts to click small links, recipients no longer want to read your newsletters.
And remember that we are always glad to help you get the most out of our products. Make valuable and effective e-newsletters!
Want to send an originally designed newsletter? Order an html email template. We also create email templates that are freely available to people who use our bulk email sender.
CSS in HTML Email Newsletter: What's new?