# Down the Rabbit Hole > Leaked reports on Iranian covert funding and a World Bank biofuel expose collide with TSA security shifts and the rise of corporate-controlled food systems. - **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md) - **Episode:** 38 - **Published:** 2008-07-07 - **Length:** 1h 5m - **Topics:** Iran covert ops, Biofuel crisis, TSA Black Diamond, Monsanto patents, Petrodollar system, [Lisbon Treaty](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lisbon-treaty.md) - **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole ## About this episode President George W. Bush reportedly secured $400 million in secret funding for covert military operations inside Iran, according to a New Yorker investigation. The 'Gang of Eight' in Congress, including Nancy Pelosi, allegedly authorized the use of deadly force and the deployment of private contractors like Blackwater. This escalation coincides with crude oil hitting $146.50 per barrel and rumors that the Iranian oil bourse on Kish Island plans to trade exclusively in Euros, threatening the global petrodollar system. Global food security faces a dual threat from Monsanto seed patents and a leaked World Bank report attributing 75% of price hikes to biofuel production. In the UK, students at a Cheshire school faced discipline for refusing to participate in Islamic prayer rituals, while the Lisbon Treaty introduces new European legal frameworks regarding parental rights and state discipline. Meanwhile, the TSA has deployed 'Black Diamond' self-select lanes at Sea-Tac and 20 other airports, utilizing jeweler's loops and blue lights to verify passenger identities against driver's licenses. Adam Curry issues a formal apology to John C. Dvorak’s blog contributors for his 'bootlicking lackeys' remark during a moment of frustration. The episode also tracks a cluster-balloonist’s 250-mile flight from Oregon to Idaho in a lawn chair and examines the 19th-century history of Henry Clay using cannons for home defense. John C. Dvorak previews his new book on economic cycles, predicting a post-election market boom despite current recession fears. ## Chapters Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/transcript.md. ### 1. Fourth of July Fireworks, Port Angeles and Chinese Manufacturing (0:01–3:59) A host recounts witnessing intense Fourth of July celebrations in Port Angeles, Washington, where fireworks are legal and sold primarily by Native Americans. The discussion highlights the irony of celebrating American independence with Chinese-manufactured explosives. Comparisons are made to New Year's Eve fireworks traditions in the Netherlands and the scale of backyard displays versus professional shows in Detroit and New York City. Keywords: [port angeles](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/port-angeles.md), [fourth of july](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fourth-of-july.md), [fireworks](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fireworks.md), [native americans](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/native-americans.md), [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [washington](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/washington.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/1.md) ### 2. Economic Cycles, John C. Dvorak Recession Book (3:59–5:56) John C. Dvorak discusses his upcoming self-published book regarding economic recessions and the cyclical nature of the market. He predicts a significant economic boom following the upcoming election, arguing that the removal of political uncertainty typically triggers market reinvestment. The conversation touches on 40-year and 80-year economic cycles. Keywords: [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [recession](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/recession.md), [economic cycle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/economic-cycle.md), [stock market](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stock-market.md), [election cycle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/election-cycle.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/2.md) ### 3. Oil Prices, Global Demand and Iran Invasion Speculation (6:00–7:34) Crude oil prices reached $146.50 per barrel for August futures before settling near $144. Predictions suggest prices will continue to rise through the holiday season before a potential collapse due to falling demand. The hosts speculate on whether a U.S. invasion of Iran would disrupt this trajectory, noting a decrease in traffic activity in San Francisco as a sign of weakening domestic demand. Keywords: [oil prices](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oil-prices.md), [crude oil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/crude-oil.md), [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md), market demand [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/3.md) ### 4. European Economic Crisis, VAT Increases and Iranian Oil Bourse (7:36–10:24) The European Central Bank raised interest rates to 4.25% as several European nations announce 1% increases to Value-Added Tax (VAT). Housing markets in Europe are experiencing a 50% decline in activity. Discussion turns to rumors that Iran intends to flood the market with cheap oil traded in Euros via the Kish Island oil bourse, potentially provoking military intervention from Israel and the United States. Keywords: [european central bank](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-central-bank.md), [value-added tax](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/value-added-tax.md), [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md), [euro](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/euro.md), oil bourse [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/4.md) ### 5. Covert Operations in Iran, New Yorker Report on Special Funding (10:25–12:04) A New Yorker magazine article reports that President George W. Bush requested $400 million from Congress for covert military operations in Iran. The funding, approved by the "Gang of Eight" including Nancy Pelosi, reportedly authorizes the use of deadly force. The hosts speculate that private contractors like Blackwater may be involved in these operations. Keywords: [george w. bush](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-w-bush.md), [congress](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/congress.md), [iran](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/iran.md), [covert operations](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/covert-operations.md), [blackwater](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blackwater.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/5.md) ### 6. Seattle Airport Transit, Graffiti on New Link Light Rail (12:05–13:05) Observations from Sea-Tac Airport reveal that new trains intended to connect downtown Seattle to the airport are already covered in extensive graffiti. The host expresses surprise at the lack of security for the new blue and white transit cars, noting they already resemble 1970s-era Manhattan subway trains. Keywords: [seattle](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/seattle.md), sea-tac airport, link light rail, [graffiti](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/graffiti.md), transit security [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/6.md) ### 7. TSA Black Diamond Self-Select Lanes, Expert Traveler Program (13:06–15:56) The TSA has launched the "Black Diamond Self-Select" program at 21 airports, including Seattle, Oakland, and Salt Lake City. The program categorizes travelers into "Expert," "Casual," and "Family/Special Needs" lanes to improve checkpoint efficiency. There is speculation that these lanes serve as a marketing tool for the private Clear registered traveler program. Keywords: [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), black diamond, expert traveler, [clear program](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clear-program.md), [airport security](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/airport-security.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/7.md) ### 8. TSA Identity Verification, New Security Procedures at Sea-Tac (15:58–19:26) New TSA security protocols at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport involve agents using jeweler's loops and blue lights to inspect driver's licenses. Agents are reportedly holding IDs up next to passengers' faces to verify physical matches, a process described as tedious and inefficient. The host criticizes the lack of space for passengers to recompose their belongings after screening. Keywords: [tsa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tsa.md), [identity theft](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/identity-theft.md), sea-tac airport, [security screening](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/security-screening.md), [driver's license](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/driver-s-license.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/8.md) ### 9. BBC Conspiracy Files, World Trade Center Building 7 Report (19:27–21:56) The BBC is set to air an episode of "The Conspiracy Files" investigating the collapse of World Trade Center Building 7. While official reports expected in July attribute the collapse to fire, the documentary explores alternative theories regarding a "sinister plot." The hosts anticipate the program will attempt to debunk popular 9/11 conspiracy theories. Keywords: [bbc](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bbc.md), [9/11](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/9-11.md), [world trade center](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-trade-center.md), [building 7](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/building-7.md), conspiracy files [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/9.md) ### 10. Host Apology, Blog Contributor "Bootlicking Lackeys" Comment (21:56–22:51) Adam Curry issues a formal apology to the contributors of John C. Dvorak's blog for previously referring to them as "bootlicking lackeys." Curry clarifies that the comment was made in a moment of frustration directed at Dvorak and was not intended to insult the volunteer associates who manage the site. Keywords: [adam curry](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/adam-curry.md), [john c. dvorak](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/john-c-dvorak.md), [blog](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/blog.md), [apology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/apology.md), [listeners](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/listeners.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/10.md) ### 11. Lawn Chair Balloonist, Oregon to Idaho Flight (22:51–25:09) A cluster-balloonist successfully traveled 250 miles from Oregon to Idaho using a lawn chair rigged with helium-filled balloons. The pilot controlled his altitude using a BB gun to pop balloons when he needed to descend. The hosts compare this feat to previous "pioneers of flight" who have attempted similar high-altitude lawn chair stunts. Keywords: lawn chair, balloons, [helium](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/helium.md), [oregon](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oregon.md), [idaho](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/idaho.md), flight [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/11.md) ### 12. Soy Consumption, Dementia and Public Relations Influence (25:10–27:48) A discussion on the health effects of soy suggests a link between high tofu consumption and brain shrinkage or dementia. The hosts claim that the "Soybean Institute" and aggressive PR firms suppress negative research and saturate search engine results with identical pro-soy messaging. The origin of "Canola oil" as a brand name for Canadian rapeseed oil is also noted. Keywords: [soy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/soy.md), tofu, [dementia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dementia.md), soybean institute, [canola oil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/canola-oil.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/12.md) ### 13. Codex Alimentarius, Global Food Supplement Regulations (27:48–30:11) The Codex Alimentarius, a set of international food standards established by the World Trade Organization, is being implemented in Europe and the UK. Critics argue the code is a pharmaceutical industry plot to outlaw high-potency vitamins and organic supplements. The hosts express concern that the "nanny state" will eventually criminalize the possession of common supplements like Vitamin C. Keywords: [codex alimentarius](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/codex-alimentarius.md), [world trade organization](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-trade-organization.md), food supplements, [vitamin c](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vitamin-c.md), [nanny state](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nanny-state.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/13.md) ### 14. Monsanto Seed Patents, Soylent Green Dystopia (30:12–31:47) Monsanto's practice of patenting genetically modified seeds and suing farmers for "seed blowover" or unauthorized reuse is discussed. The hosts mention that even pigs have been patented. The conversation references the 1973 film "Soylent Green" as a seminal cinematic depiction of a corporate-controlled food dystopia. Keywords: [monsanto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/monsanto.md), [patents](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patents.md), [agriculture](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/agriculture.md), [soylent green](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/soylent-green.md), [genetic engineering](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/genetic-engineering.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/14.md) ### 15. UK School Prayer Controversy, Religious Education Discipline (31:48–34:58) Two schoolboys in Cheshire, England, were reportedly disciplined for refusing to kneel and pray to Allah during a mandatory religious education lesson at a public school. The hosts question the legality of forcing students to perform religious rituals and comment on a related photograph showing a video camera recording the classroom prayer session. Keywords: [britain](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/britain.md), [cheshire](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/cheshire.md), [allah](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/allah.md), religious education, [public school](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/public-school.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/15.md) ### 16. Biofuels and Global Food Prices, World Bank Report (34:58–37:23) A leaked World Bank report suggests that 75% of the recent global surge in food prices is attributable to the production of biofuels. The shift from food crops to fuel-grade grain, incentivized by government subsidies, has created a shortage of edible cereals. The hosts criticize "green" energy policies for prioritizing car fuel over human nutrition. Keywords: [world bank](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/world-bank.md), [biofuels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/biofuels.md), [food prices](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/food-prices.md), [corn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/corn.md), [ethanol](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ethanol.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/16.md) ### 17. Food Market Derivatives, Shorting the Food Index (37:24–40:00) New stock market derivatives allow investors to bet on the performance of food company indices. "Ultra" derivatives can quadruple gains or losses based on the movement of stocks like Archer Daniels Midland. The hosts discuss the ethics and financial strategy of profiting from food shortages through 401k-compatible short positions. Keywords: [stock market](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/stock-market.md), [derivatives](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/derivatives.md), [401k](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/401k.md), food companies, [archer daniels midland](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/archer-daniels-midland.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/17.md) ### 18. China Oil Demand, Monsanto Licensing and Surveillance (40:00–43:49) China's oil demand has increased by 2 million barrels per day, largely sourced from Russia and Africa. The discussion shifts back to Monsanto, detailing how the company uses helicopters to survey fields for unauthorized use of patented, pesticide-resistant wheat. Farmers are reportedly forced to pay annual royalty fees for crops that naturally reseed. Keywords: [china](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/china.md), [africa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/africa.md), [monsanto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/monsanto.md), [pesticides](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/pesticides.md), [black helicopters](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/black-helicopters.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/18.md) ### 19. Second Amendment Rights, DC Gun Ban and Henry Clay (43:49–46:06) Following the lifting of the Washington D.C. gun ban, the hosts discuss the historical context of the Second Amendment. An anecdote about 19th-century abolitionist Henry Clay using a cannon to defend his home from a sheriff is used to argue for the right to own high-powered weapons. The hosts contrast historical self-defense with modern "militarized" police responses. Keywords: [second amendment](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/second-amendment.md), dc gun ban, [henry clay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/henry-clay.md), [firearms](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/firearms.md), [abolitionist](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/abolitionist.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/19.md) ### 20. Ruby Ridge, Gary Weaver and Government Accountability (46:07–47:54) The 1992 Ruby Ridge standoff involving Gary Weaver (Randy Weaver) is cited as an example of government overreach. The hosts discuss the killing of Weaver's wife by an FBI sharpshooter and the lack of legal consequences for the agents involved. They contrast this with the aggressive prosecution of minor offenses committed by ordinary citizens. Keywords: [ruby ridge](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ruby-ridge.md), gary weaver, [clinton administration](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/clinton-administration.md), [fbi](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fbi.md), [waco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/waco.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/20.md) ### 21. Lisbon Treaty, European Constitution and Parental Rights (47:54–49:28) The Lisbon Treaty, serving as the new European Constitution, reportedly contains amendments that grant the government the right to discipline or incarcerate children. The hosts discuss the complexity of EU legal documents and the difficulty of challenging these "human rights" protocols in the high court in Brussels. Keywords: [lisbon treaty](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lisbon-treaty.md), [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), [human rights](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/human-rights.md), [brussels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/brussels.md), [constitution](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/constitution.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/21.md) ### 22. Minnesota Voter Fraud Case, eBay Vote Sale Joke (49:29–51:47) A Minnesota college student faces felony charges for jokingly attempting to sell his presidential election vote on eBay for $10. Despite receiving no bids, prosecutors are using an 1893 law to pursue the case. The hosts argue this is a waste of taxpayer money and a violation of free speech, noting that the Secretary of State involved is facing his own scandals. Keywords: [minnesota](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/minnesota.md), [ebay](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ebay.md), [voter fraud](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/voter-fraud.md), [felony](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/felony.md), [freedom of speech](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/freedom-of-speech.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/22.md) ### 23. Barack Obama Campaign Funding, Policy Shifts and Tesco Lobbying (51:47–54:35) Barack Obama is criticized for reversing his stance on public campaign financing, opting instead to raise an estimated $500 million privately. The hosts note his shifting positions on the FISA bill and the Iraq War timeline. Additionally, Obama has reportedly been lobbying the UK retailer Tesco to allow trade unions in its U.S. "Fresh & Easy" stores. Keywords: [barack obama](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/barack-obama.md), [campaign finance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/campaign-finance.md), [fisa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fisa.md), [tesco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tesco.md), trade unions [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/23.md) ### 24. Oil Price Manipulation, Dollar Devaluation and Commute Benefits (54:36–58:14) The hosts debate whether oil will hit $200 per barrel, with Dvorak predicting a collapse and Curry expecting continued highs. The price is linked to the devaluation of the U.S. dollar and alleged manipulation by traders in Dubai and London. Dvorak notes that high gas prices have the side benefit of reducing traffic congestion for those living close to urban centers like San Francisco. Keywords: [oil prices](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oil-prices.md), [dollar devaluation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dollar-devaluation.md), [dubai](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dubai.md), [london](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/london.md), [san francisco](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/san-francisco.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/24.md) ### 25. Lindsey Williams, The Energy Non-Crisis and Petrodollars (58:15–1:00:37) Pastor Lindsey Williams claims that "Peak Oil" is a myth manufactured by oil companies to maintain high prices. Williams, who was present during the discovery of massive Alaskan oil fields, alleges that Henry Kissinger brokered a deal with the Saudis to trade oil exclusively in U.S. dollars. The theory suggests military conflicts in Iraq and Iran are driven by threats to this "petrodollar" system. Keywords: lindsey williams, [alaska](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/alaska.md), [henry kissinger](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/henry-kissinger.md), [petrodollar](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/petrodollar.md), [peak oil](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/peak-oil.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/25.md) ### 26. Drop.io Collaborative Tools, Show Outro and Schedule (1:00:40–1:05:30) Adam Curry discusses using Drop.io for the "Daily Source Code" to allow listeners to contribute links and files directly to the show. The hosts promote their various blogs and consolidated RSS feeds. The episode concludes with a reminder that the next show will be recorded on Sunday due to a family birthday, signing off from Guilford, UK, and Northern California. Keywords: [drop.io](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drop-io.md), [daily source code](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/daily-source-code.md), [curry.com](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/curry-com.md), [podcast](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcast.md), [guilford](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/guilford.md) [Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/38-down-the-rabbit-hole/chapter/26.md) - [Previous episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef.md) - [Next episode](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/39-fascism-today.md) --- This is the markdown version of a page on The No Agenda Show for AI agents. 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