news_text
stringlengths 0
312k
| title
stringlengths 0
11.1k
| hyperpartisan
bool 2
classes | url
stringlengths 20
344
| published_at
stringlengths 0
10
| bias
class label 5
classes | text
stringlengths 19
312k
| uid
int64 0
600k
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
<p>I have been invited to post a series of short commentaries on the Electoral Reform Act of 2012, a crowd-sourced outline that started in 2000 and was first developed over time by myself with Jim Turner (former #2 to Ralph Nader), Michael Cudahey (former top aid to Barry Goldwater), and Jock Gill (former communications specialist for Bill Clinton).</p>
<p>When Occupy <a href="http://www.phibetaiota.net/2011/09/koko-day-of-rage-17-september-how-will-it-end/" type="external">came to my attention</a> on 17 September 2012, I immediately took notice and quickly noticed that Electoral Reform was a key element of the US Day of Rage web page [neither about rage, nor lasting a day].&#160; I <a href="https://youtu.be/dt1kZtHXOuo" type="external">spoke about this</a> to Russia Today TV, that got me a call from a US Day of Rage person, and that led to my briefing the Occupy NYC Electoral Reform Working Group in October, driving my trusty 1964 MGB with Soccer Mom letters (photo below, parked in front of the 60 Wall Street atrium used for meetings).</p>
<p>A <a href="https://tinyurl.com/ER-6Minutes" type="external">video was made of me</a> by someone else, speaking for six minutes, and then posted a couple of weeks later to YouTube.&#160; It made the front page of Reddit, and went small viral (30,000 main votes, at least a dozen copies).</p>
<p>That in turn — and this is the important part — caused a number of stakeholders in electoral reform to get in touch with me, and led to the crowd-sourcing of the Electoral Reform Act of 2012.&#160; Now at version 4.4, it started as 2.0.&#160; Below are the existing links at <a href="http://bigbatusa.org" type="external">We the People Reform Coalition</a>, where I have tried to create a “package” that could be used to mobilize a third-wave campaign–trans-partisan in nature–to trash the two-party tyranny in 2012.</p>
<p><a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/" type="external">ELECTORAL REFORM</a></p>
<p><a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/documents/" type="external">A DOCUMENTS</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/documents/a-international-election-integrity-principles/" type="external">….1 International Election Integrity Principles</a> …. <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/documents/b-occupy-nyc-working-group-on-electoral-reform/" type="external">2 Occupy NYC Working Group on Electoral Reform</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/documents/elect-integrity-pledge/" type="external">….3 Election Integrity Pledge</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/documents/electoral-reform-statement-of-demand/" type="external">….4 Electoral Reform Statement of Demand</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/strategy-tactics-activist-elements/" type="external">B STRATEGY, METHODS, ORGANIZATIONS</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/strategy-tactics-activist-elements/h-richard-winger-on-electoral-reform-short-cut/" type="external">….1 Richard Winger on Electoral Reform Short-Cut</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/strategy-tactics-activist-elements/campaign-finance-amendment-or-law/" type="external">….2 Campaign Finance: Amendment or Law?</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/strategy-tactics-activist-elements/i-americans-elect-manchurian-fraud-or-redeemable-good-idea/" type="external">….3 Americans Elect: Manchurian Fraud or Redeemable Good Idea?</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/strategy-tactics-activist-elements/d-general-strike/" type="external">….4 General Strike</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/strategy-tactics-activist-elements/e-other-reference-points/" type="external">….5 Directory of Activist Individuals &amp; Organizations (USA)</a></p>
<p><a href="http://bigbatusa.org" type="external">Learn More</a></p>
<p>My individual discussions of each of the eleven elements are not at the above links, they will be unique to Independent Voter Network (IVN), less one consolidated document posted at BigBatUSA after all of the pieces have been posted.</p>
<p>Robert Steele is a former spy, honorary hacker, #1 Amazon reviewer for non-fiction, a former small business CEO, and founder of Earth Intelligence Network, a 501c3 committed to creating public intelligence in the public interest. This is the first part in an ongoing multi-part series “Robert Steele on Electoral Reform”. The views expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of IVN or IVN partners.</p>
<p>Series:</p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Introduction of a New Series</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 1: Process</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 2: Ballot Access</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 3: Voting for The People</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 4: Voting for Issues</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 5: Debates</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 6: Cabinet</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 7: Representation</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 8: Districts</a></p>
<p>Part 9: Funding (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 10: Legislation (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 11: Constitutional Amendment (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 12: The Stakeholders (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 13: Overview of The Ethics (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 14: Overview of The Action Plan (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 15: The Pledge (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 16: The Statement of Demand (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>&#160;</p> | Steele on Electoral Reform: Introduction of a New Series | false | https://ivn.us/2012/03/06/steele-on-electoral-reform-introduction-of-a-new-series/ | 2012-03-06 | 2least
| Steele on Electoral Reform: Introduction of a New Series
<p>I have been invited to post a series of short commentaries on the Electoral Reform Act of 2012, a crowd-sourced outline that started in 2000 and was first developed over time by myself with Jim Turner (former #2 to Ralph Nader), Michael Cudahey (former top aid to Barry Goldwater), and Jock Gill (former communications specialist for Bill Clinton).</p>
<p>When Occupy <a href="http://www.phibetaiota.net/2011/09/koko-day-of-rage-17-september-how-will-it-end/" type="external">came to my attention</a> on 17 September 2012, I immediately took notice and quickly noticed that Electoral Reform was a key element of the US Day of Rage web page [neither about rage, nor lasting a day].&#160; I <a href="https://youtu.be/dt1kZtHXOuo" type="external">spoke about this</a> to Russia Today TV, that got me a call from a US Day of Rage person, and that led to my briefing the Occupy NYC Electoral Reform Working Group in October, driving my trusty 1964 MGB with Soccer Mom letters (photo below, parked in front of the 60 Wall Street atrium used for meetings).</p>
<p>A <a href="https://tinyurl.com/ER-6Minutes" type="external">video was made of me</a> by someone else, speaking for six minutes, and then posted a couple of weeks later to YouTube.&#160; It made the front page of Reddit, and went small viral (30,000 main votes, at least a dozen copies).</p>
<p>That in turn — and this is the important part — caused a number of stakeholders in electoral reform to get in touch with me, and led to the crowd-sourcing of the Electoral Reform Act of 2012.&#160; Now at version 4.4, it started as 2.0.&#160; Below are the existing links at <a href="http://bigbatusa.org" type="external">We the People Reform Coalition</a>, where I have tried to create a “package” that could be used to mobilize a third-wave campaign–trans-partisan in nature–to trash the two-party tyranny in 2012.</p>
<p><a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/" type="external">ELECTORAL REFORM</a></p>
<p><a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/documents/" type="external">A DOCUMENTS</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/documents/a-international-election-integrity-principles/" type="external">….1 International Election Integrity Principles</a> …. <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/documents/b-occupy-nyc-working-group-on-electoral-reform/" type="external">2 Occupy NYC Working Group on Electoral Reform</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/documents/elect-integrity-pledge/" type="external">….3 Election Integrity Pledge</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/documents/electoral-reform-statement-of-demand/" type="external">….4 Electoral Reform Statement of Demand</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/strategy-tactics-activist-elements/" type="external">B STRATEGY, METHODS, ORGANIZATIONS</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/strategy-tactics-activist-elements/h-richard-winger-on-electoral-reform-short-cut/" type="external">….1 Richard Winger on Electoral Reform Short-Cut</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/strategy-tactics-activist-elements/campaign-finance-amendment-or-law/" type="external">….2 Campaign Finance: Amendment or Law?</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/strategy-tactics-activist-elements/i-americans-elect-manchurian-fraud-or-redeemable-good-idea/" type="external">….3 Americans Elect: Manchurian Fraud or Redeemable Good Idea?</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/strategy-tactics-activist-elements/d-general-strike/" type="external">….4 General Strike</a> <a href="http://bigbatusa.org/electoral-reform/strategy-tactics-activist-elements/e-other-reference-points/" type="external">….5 Directory of Activist Individuals &amp; Organizations (USA)</a></p>
<p><a href="http://bigbatusa.org" type="external">Learn More</a></p>
<p>My individual discussions of each of the eleven elements are not at the above links, they will be unique to Independent Voter Network (IVN), less one consolidated document posted at BigBatUSA after all of the pieces have been posted.</p>
<p>Robert Steele is a former spy, honorary hacker, #1 Amazon reviewer for non-fiction, a former small business CEO, and founder of Earth Intelligence Network, a 501c3 committed to creating public intelligence in the public interest. This is the first part in an ongoing multi-part series “Robert Steele on Electoral Reform”. The views expressed are the author’s own and do not necessarily reflect the views of IVN or IVN partners.</p>
<p>Series:</p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Introduction of a New Series</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 1: Process</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 2: Ballot Access</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 3: Voting for The People</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 4: Voting for Issues</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 5: Debates</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 6: Cabinet</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 7: Representation</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Part 8: Districts</a></p>
<p>Part 9: Funding (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 10: Legislation (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 11: Constitutional Amendment (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 12: The Stakeholders (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 13: Overview of The Ethics (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 14: Overview of The Action Plan (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 15: The Pledge (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>Part 16: The Statement of Demand (Coming Soon)</p>
<p>&#160;</p> | 599,100 |
<p>Ted Cruz's V.P. running mate Carly Fiorina on the 2016 presidential race and the feud between John Boehner and Ted Cruz.</p>
<p>Carly Fiorina is back at the forefront of the 2016 election – and this time she’s standing by Senator Ted Cruz as his vice presidential running mate. During an interview with the FOX Business Network’s Maria Bartiromo, she discussed why.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>“It is not an exaggeration to say the soul of our party and the future of our nation are at stake. I have said from the moment that Donald Trump announced his candidacy, he doesn’t represent me and he doesn’t represent my party. He is almost as liberal as Hillary Clinton is. Donald Trump cannot be our nominee. Hillary Clinton cannot be our president,” she said.</p>
<p>She feels it’s critically important to have a conservative as the party nominee and in the White House who will “stand up and fight the system that is corrupt.”</p>
<p>She also reacted to former House Speaker John Boehner’s commentary on Ted Cruz.</p>
<p>“John Boehner lost his speakership because he accomplished nothing with a Republican majority in the house. Those comments were completely inappropriate… John Boehner said that he and Trump are texting and golfing buddies – I rest my case,” she said.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>Fiorina then explained why Donald Trump wouldn’t challenge the political system which he has called “rigged.”</p>
<p>“He’s given to Hillary Clinton, both her presidential and Senate campaigns a total of seven times. How do you do that, how do you be buddies with both folks on two sides of the aisle? You know how you do that? Because you’re gaming the system,” she said.</p>
<p>Fiorina says they are campaigning hard in Indiana ahead of Tuesday’s primary.</p> | Carly Fiorina Blasts Donald Trump | true | http://foxbusiness.com/features/2016/04/29/carly-fiorina-blasts-donald-trump.html | 2017-01-09 | 0right
| Carly Fiorina Blasts Donald Trump
<p>Ted Cruz's V.P. running mate Carly Fiorina on the 2016 presidential race and the feud between John Boehner and Ted Cruz.</p>
<p>Carly Fiorina is back at the forefront of the 2016 election – and this time she’s standing by Senator Ted Cruz as his vice presidential running mate. During an interview with the FOX Business Network’s Maria Bartiromo, she discussed why.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>“It is not an exaggeration to say the soul of our party and the future of our nation are at stake. I have said from the moment that Donald Trump announced his candidacy, he doesn’t represent me and he doesn’t represent my party. He is almost as liberal as Hillary Clinton is. Donald Trump cannot be our nominee. Hillary Clinton cannot be our president,” she said.</p>
<p>She feels it’s critically important to have a conservative as the party nominee and in the White House who will “stand up and fight the system that is corrupt.”</p>
<p>She also reacted to former House Speaker John Boehner’s commentary on Ted Cruz.</p>
<p>“John Boehner lost his speakership because he accomplished nothing with a Republican majority in the house. Those comments were completely inappropriate… John Boehner said that he and Trump are texting and golfing buddies – I rest my case,” she said.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>Fiorina then explained why Donald Trump wouldn’t challenge the political system which he has called “rigged.”</p>
<p>“He’s given to Hillary Clinton, both her presidential and Senate campaigns a total of seven times. How do you do that, how do you be buddies with both folks on two sides of the aisle? You know how you do that? Because you’re gaming the system,” she said.</p>
<p>Fiorina says they are campaigning hard in Indiana ahead of Tuesday’s primary.</p> | 599,101 |
<p />
<p>Photo by Fabricator of Useless Articles | <a href="" type="internal">CC BY 2.0</a></p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p />
<p>I currently receive a Social Security benefit check of $985 a month, which is a spousal benefit I qualified for, one of the last to be able to make use of the so-called file-and-suspend option for married people reaching age 66 that the Obama Administration and Congress agreed to do away with two years ago, in one of many small cuts being applied to the Social Security program.</p>
<p>This year that benefit, like the benefit checks of all 60 million people (one in five of all Americans) on Social Security, rose by a scant 0.3 percent, taking my check from $983 a month last year to its present level — a rise of $2.00 a month (I was actually screwed out of a dollar because of crooked rounding!).</p>
<p>Now we learn that the Federal Reserve is raising the benchmark interest rate a notch because inflation is actually running at close to 2 percent — the “target” of the Federal Reserve Bank’s policy makers for achieving what they call a “health economy.”</p>
<p>Now don’t tell me that inflation was running at 0.3 percent last year and that it’s now 2.0% three months later. We didn’t just have a huge 1.7% jump in prices of everything over the past three months.</p>
<p>The truth: This is a screw job on the elderly and the disabled, pure and simple.</p>
<p>The claim that our costs of living didn’t really change over the course of 2016 was a fraud. Everyone knows it. Food prices rose dramatically last year. So did fuel costs, for both heating and driving. Transportation costs rose, and so did car prices. Rents went up, and so did interest rates on borrowing for a home or a home equity loan. And health care costs — a big one for the Social Security set — rose 6.5%, which is what they’re expected to rise by this year too. And do you know what percent of their income the elderly spend on healthcare? It’s 20% <a href="" type="internal">across the board</a>. Since it’s safe to say that nothing the elderly (or anyone else) has had to buy in 2016 got any cheaper, clearly our cost of living rose a damn sight more than the measly joke of an increase of 0.3 percent that we saw (or didn’t notice) in our benefit checks!</p>
<p>Clearly Congress should be revisiting this year’s cost-of-living adjustment and making it match what the Fed says inflation has really been. It’s wrong for the government to be keeping a double set of books on something like this, yet that is exactly what they’re doing!</p>
<p>But I’m not holding my breath. This is the Congress that at this moment is attempting to pass a bill killing the so-called Affordable Care Act and replacing it with a Republican measure that besides throwing 24 million people off their ACA-subsidized health insurance plans, will increase the cost of supplemental health insurance (the insurance that covers doctors and drugs, as Medicare only covers hospital care) by as much as — hang on to your seats — 750 percent!</p>
<p>It’s almost like the Republican party took to heart the idea of a wretched former Democratic Governor of Colorado, Richard Lamm, who famously said back in 1984, at the tender age of 48, in a discussion on the rising cost of health care with respect to the elderly who have the gall to make use of costly medical care to try and live longer:&#160; ”You’ve got a duty to die and get out of the way. ‘Let the other society, our kids, build a reasonable life.”</p>
<p>Seriously. <a href="http://www.depauw.edu/news-media/latest-news/details/17781/" type="external">He did say that</a>. (Lamm, who directs an institute at the University of Denver, where he no doubt receives a beaucoup subsidized health insurance plan, appears to be in excellent health, but at 81, I’m guessing his insurance company has already paid for some kind of life extending or life-improving medical care by now for him. It’ll be interesting what he does when, over the next few years, something potentially terminal comes along to threaten him or his spouse.)</p>
<p>But the Republicans in Congress are basically doing what Lamm was suggesting, by trying to pass a bill that would price the poorer elderly out of the insurance market and cause them to die whether they want to or not.</p>
<p>That brings me back to this inflation thing.</p>
<p>What it really comes down to is, what kind of a society do we really want to live in? Do we want it to be one where people starve, freeze, even die because of bad luck, because of being born to a poor family in the wrong part of the country where the schools suck and jobs are scarce, because the government decided it was okay for car-makers to move production to Mexico or China, make them there and then import them back into the US without any import tax, and sell them here, because they can’t afford to see a doctor, or get a needed medical test or procedure?&#160; Do we want to say that after working for 30 or 40 years, it’s okay for their <a href="" type="internal">Social Security benefit check to be a lousy $1400 a month?</a> And remember, for <a href="http://www.ssa.gov/news/press/factsheets/basicfact-alt.pdf" type="external">43% of older Americans, that Social Security check represents at least 90% of their income.</a></p>
<p>Try working out a budget on that, and see how you do. I can’t imagine it, especially for someone living in an urban area.</p>
<p>I’ll give you some help. The Bureau of Labor Statistics — the same outfit that makes the estimate of what inflation has been for the year — offers the following information on average elderly expenses:</p>
<p>* Housing costs average $1294 a month.</p>
<p>* Transportation costs average $571 a month</p>
<p>* Food costs average $459 a month</p>
<p>* Entertainment averages $205 a month</p>
<p>* Personal insurance averages $228 a month</p>
<p>That all totals $2757, or more than double what we have left of our average benefit check after deducting health care expenses.</p>
<p>Oh, by the way, the BLS says those health care costs for the elderly average $480 a month, which is a bit more than our 20% average, but hey at this point, who’s counting?</p>
<p>Clearly we have a problem. Either we Americans decide we are just going to take the Lamm approach and let a lot of our elderly just die — or as is more likely — become a huge burden on their children and/or grandchildren, holding them all down from being able to get ahead in the world by, say, going to college or moving to some place where there are actually jobs.&#160; Or we decide that we are a civilized people and that we, like the people in almost every European country, and many more developed countries in other parts of the world have managed to do, are going to adequately fund their old age with a Social Security program that actually provides the security promised in its name.</p>
<p>We aren’t doing that now, and the current Trump/Republican government in Washington is hard at work trying to adopt Lamm’s approach of just killing the problem off.</p>
<p>Note to married readers who were born before Jan. 2, 1954:</p>
<p>If you are married and both born before that deadline, you can still do a kind of lesser version of the now terminated “file-and-suspend” option. It’s called a “restricted application” for Social Security spousal benefits, and it can help at least one, and maybe both financially strapped older workers in a couple hold off on collecting their benefits until they reach 70, when they can start collecting the maximum benefit to which their working years of paying FICA taxes entitles them.</p>
<p>Here’s the deal: If possible, the older of two married people should try to wait until 70 to perform this operation, though it can be done at 66, locking in a lower benefit check (deciding when to do this requires going through the math on different age options). Once that person is collecting benefits, the younger spouse, if also age 66, can file what is called a “restricted application” for spousal benefits. This means he or she would start receiving 50% of the other person’s level of benefits, meaning the couple will be receiving 150% of the senior retiree’s benefit amount. When the second spouse reaches 70, and can collect maximum benefits on his or her own account, she or he can switch over to that account. The difference between this method and the old file-and-suspend option is that the first person to retire in this option is locked into whatever benefit level was available at the age he or she filed for benefits. (Of course in any case benefits paid are adjusted — unfairly as described above, but adjusted in any event — for inflation each year.)</p>
<p>Note that this option will remain available through Jan 1, 2020 for those couples where the younger spouse still isn’t 66, but will reach that age as late as that deadline date. (Spousal benefits can be filed for at age 62, and even younger in the case of a spouse who is caring for children, but the catch is if you file for them before you’re 66 yourself, your own retirement benefit will be calculated based upon the age you filed for the spousal benefits, unlike in the “restricted application,” where your own benefit amount is calculated based on the age when you switch from spousal benefits over to your own account.)</p>
<p>If you have questions, go to a local Social Security office and have them explain” restricted application for spousal benefits” and to do the age calculated results to you. They’ll do it, but only if you ask. Congress ruled that Social Security workers shouldn’t give advice — only answer specific questions.</p>
<p>Sadly this President Obama and Congress only left this option to those born before 1/2/1954, but if you lost out but know any couple that meets that requirement alert them about this and warn them not to file for retirement early and blow the opportunity to boost their total benefit payments substantially! You should at least deserve being treated to dinner for doing so. And by the way, if this information proves helpful to you and your spouse, in lieu of lunch feel free to put a little donation in the TCBH! tip jar using our Paypal button on the&#160; <a href="http://www.thiscantbehappening.net/" type="external">homepage</a>.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p /> | Killing the Elderly: Social Security Starves Us Slowly as the GOP Tries to Kill Us by Gutting Health Care | true | https://counterpunch.org/2017/03/17/killing-the-elderly-social-security-starves-us-slowly-as-the-gop-tries-to-kill-us-by-gutting-health-care/ | 2017-03-17 | 4left
| Killing the Elderly: Social Security Starves Us Slowly as the GOP Tries to Kill Us by Gutting Health Care
<p />
<p>Photo by Fabricator of Useless Articles | <a href="" type="internal">CC BY 2.0</a></p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p />
<p>I currently receive a Social Security benefit check of $985 a month, which is a spousal benefit I qualified for, one of the last to be able to make use of the so-called file-and-suspend option for married people reaching age 66 that the Obama Administration and Congress agreed to do away with two years ago, in one of many small cuts being applied to the Social Security program.</p>
<p>This year that benefit, like the benefit checks of all 60 million people (one in five of all Americans) on Social Security, rose by a scant 0.3 percent, taking my check from $983 a month last year to its present level — a rise of $2.00 a month (I was actually screwed out of a dollar because of crooked rounding!).</p>
<p>Now we learn that the Federal Reserve is raising the benchmark interest rate a notch because inflation is actually running at close to 2 percent — the “target” of the Federal Reserve Bank’s policy makers for achieving what they call a “health economy.”</p>
<p>Now don’t tell me that inflation was running at 0.3 percent last year and that it’s now 2.0% three months later. We didn’t just have a huge 1.7% jump in prices of everything over the past three months.</p>
<p>The truth: This is a screw job on the elderly and the disabled, pure and simple.</p>
<p>The claim that our costs of living didn’t really change over the course of 2016 was a fraud. Everyone knows it. Food prices rose dramatically last year. So did fuel costs, for both heating and driving. Transportation costs rose, and so did car prices. Rents went up, and so did interest rates on borrowing for a home or a home equity loan. And health care costs — a big one for the Social Security set — rose 6.5%, which is what they’re expected to rise by this year too. And do you know what percent of their income the elderly spend on healthcare? It’s 20% <a href="" type="internal">across the board</a>. Since it’s safe to say that nothing the elderly (or anyone else) has had to buy in 2016 got any cheaper, clearly our cost of living rose a damn sight more than the measly joke of an increase of 0.3 percent that we saw (or didn’t notice) in our benefit checks!</p>
<p>Clearly Congress should be revisiting this year’s cost-of-living adjustment and making it match what the Fed says inflation has really been. It’s wrong for the government to be keeping a double set of books on something like this, yet that is exactly what they’re doing!</p>
<p>But I’m not holding my breath. This is the Congress that at this moment is attempting to pass a bill killing the so-called Affordable Care Act and replacing it with a Republican measure that besides throwing 24 million people off their ACA-subsidized health insurance plans, will increase the cost of supplemental health insurance (the insurance that covers doctors and drugs, as Medicare only covers hospital care) by as much as — hang on to your seats — 750 percent!</p>
<p>It’s almost like the Republican party took to heart the idea of a wretched former Democratic Governor of Colorado, Richard Lamm, who famously said back in 1984, at the tender age of 48, in a discussion on the rising cost of health care with respect to the elderly who have the gall to make use of costly medical care to try and live longer:&#160; ”You’ve got a duty to die and get out of the way. ‘Let the other society, our kids, build a reasonable life.”</p>
<p>Seriously. <a href="http://www.depauw.edu/news-media/latest-news/details/17781/" type="external">He did say that</a>. (Lamm, who directs an institute at the University of Denver, where he no doubt receives a beaucoup subsidized health insurance plan, appears to be in excellent health, but at 81, I’m guessing his insurance company has already paid for some kind of life extending or life-improving medical care by now for him. It’ll be interesting what he does when, over the next few years, something potentially terminal comes along to threaten him or his spouse.)</p>
<p>But the Republicans in Congress are basically doing what Lamm was suggesting, by trying to pass a bill that would price the poorer elderly out of the insurance market and cause them to die whether they want to or not.</p>
<p>That brings me back to this inflation thing.</p>
<p>What it really comes down to is, what kind of a society do we really want to live in? Do we want it to be one where people starve, freeze, even die because of bad luck, because of being born to a poor family in the wrong part of the country where the schools suck and jobs are scarce, because the government decided it was okay for car-makers to move production to Mexico or China, make them there and then import them back into the US without any import tax, and sell them here, because they can’t afford to see a doctor, or get a needed medical test or procedure?&#160; Do we want to say that after working for 30 or 40 years, it’s okay for their <a href="" type="internal">Social Security benefit check to be a lousy $1400 a month?</a> And remember, for <a href="http://www.ssa.gov/news/press/factsheets/basicfact-alt.pdf" type="external">43% of older Americans, that Social Security check represents at least 90% of their income.</a></p>
<p>Try working out a budget on that, and see how you do. I can’t imagine it, especially for someone living in an urban area.</p>
<p>I’ll give you some help. The Bureau of Labor Statistics — the same outfit that makes the estimate of what inflation has been for the year — offers the following information on average elderly expenses:</p>
<p>* Housing costs average $1294 a month.</p>
<p>* Transportation costs average $571 a month</p>
<p>* Food costs average $459 a month</p>
<p>* Entertainment averages $205 a month</p>
<p>* Personal insurance averages $228 a month</p>
<p>That all totals $2757, or more than double what we have left of our average benefit check after deducting health care expenses.</p>
<p>Oh, by the way, the BLS says those health care costs for the elderly average $480 a month, which is a bit more than our 20% average, but hey at this point, who’s counting?</p>
<p>Clearly we have a problem. Either we Americans decide we are just going to take the Lamm approach and let a lot of our elderly just die — or as is more likely — become a huge burden on their children and/or grandchildren, holding them all down from being able to get ahead in the world by, say, going to college or moving to some place where there are actually jobs.&#160; Or we decide that we are a civilized people and that we, like the people in almost every European country, and many more developed countries in other parts of the world have managed to do, are going to adequately fund their old age with a Social Security program that actually provides the security promised in its name.</p>
<p>We aren’t doing that now, and the current Trump/Republican government in Washington is hard at work trying to adopt Lamm’s approach of just killing the problem off.</p>
<p>Note to married readers who were born before Jan. 2, 1954:</p>
<p>If you are married and both born before that deadline, you can still do a kind of lesser version of the now terminated “file-and-suspend” option. It’s called a “restricted application” for Social Security spousal benefits, and it can help at least one, and maybe both financially strapped older workers in a couple hold off on collecting their benefits until they reach 70, when they can start collecting the maximum benefit to which their working years of paying FICA taxes entitles them.</p>
<p>Here’s the deal: If possible, the older of two married people should try to wait until 70 to perform this operation, though it can be done at 66, locking in a lower benefit check (deciding when to do this requires going through the math on different age options). Once that person is collecting benefits, the younger spouse, if also age 66, can file what is called a “restricted application” for spousal benefits. This means he or she would start receiving 50% of the other person’s level of benefits, meaning the couple will be receiving 150% of the senior retiree’s benefit amount. When the second spouse reaches 70, and can collect maximum benefits on his or her own account, she or he can switch over to that account. The difference between this method and the old file-and-suspend option is that the first person to retire in this option is locked into whatever benefit level was available at the age he or she filed for benefits. (Of course in any case benefits paid are adjusted — unfairly as described above, but adjusted in any event — for inflation each year.)</p>
<p>Note that this option will remain available through Jan 1, 2020 for those couples where the younger spouse still isn’t 66, but will reach that age as late as that deadline date. (Spousal benefits can be filed for at age 62, and even younger in the case of a spouse who is caring for children, but the catch is if you file for them before you’re 66 yourself, your own retirement benefit will be calculated based upon the age you filed for the spousal benefits, unlike in the “restricted application,” where your own benefit amount is calculated based on the age when you switch from spousal benefits over to your own account.)</p>
<p>If you have questions, go to a local Social Security office and have them explain” restricted application for spousal benefits” and to do the age calculated results to you. They’ll do it, but only if you ask. Congress ruled that Social Security workers shouldn’t give advice — only answer specific questions.</p>
<p>Sadly this President Obama and Congress only left this option to those born before 1/2/1954, but if you lost out but know any couple that meets that requirement alert them about this and warn them not to file for retirement early and blow the opportunity to boost their total benefit payments substantially! You should at least deserve being treated to dinner for doing so. And by the way, if this information proves helpful to you and your spouse, in lieu of lunch feel free to put a little donation in the TCBH! tip jar using our Paypal button on the&#160; <a href="http://www.thiscantbehappening.net/" type="external">homepage</a>.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p /> | 599,102 |
<p>My local daily newspaper this morning had the story of "12 West Virginia miners found alive," just as did most morning newspapers in the U.S. (To see this morning's U.S. newspaper front pages, hurry over to the <a href="http://www.newseum.org/todaysfrontpages/" type="external">Newseum's front-pages feature</a>.) Of course, it didn't turn out that way in the end; the real facts of 12 deaths emerged in the middle of the night, well after most press runs. Now, hindsight is 20/20, as the cliche goes. But here's what I think newspaper front-page editors should have done last night: Published an info box accompanying the story pointing people to the paper's website for updates on the story, and acknowledging that as of the time the paper-edition story was printed, the situation was fluid. Acknowledging the information situation would have generated understanding by readers of why the print story got it wrong. By ignoring it, some segment of the readership figured out what happened on their own; others assumed incompetence by the newspaper's editors. Another thought that comes to mind is more of a crisis-management solution: Since newspapers are now publishing to multiple media formats, and because they (should have) collected e-mail addresses of their print-edition customers, they could have sent out an "urgent correction" updating the story. If the paper has a cell-phone news service, they could use that, too. Finally, those wrong front-page headlines staring out of newspaper street racks all day are embarrassing. Perhaps printed posters should have been inserted in the racks with an accurate headline and a call to visit the newspaper's website. At least that's cheaper than printing a new edition. Post-game quarterbacking isn't terribly productive, of course, but perhaps these ideas will be useful&#160; the next time a big story turns 180 degrees in the middle of the night.</p> | Coal Miners Story: A Partial Solution for Print | false | https://poynter.org/news/coal-miners-story-partial-solution-print | 2006-01-04 | 2least
| Coal Miners Story: A Partial Solution for Print
<p>My local daily newspaper this morning had the story of "12 West Virginia miners found alive," just as did most morning newspapers in the U.S. (To see this morning's U.S. newspaper front pages, hurry over to the <a href="http://www.newseum.org/todaysfrontpages/" type="external">Newseum's front-pages feature</a>.) Of course, it didn't turn out that way in the end; the real facts of 12 deaths emerged in the middle of the night, well after most press runs. Now, hindsight is 20/20, as the cliche goes. But here's what I think newspaper front-page editors should have done last night: Published an info box accompanying the story pointing people to the paper's website for updates on the story, and acknowledging that as of the time the paper-edition story was printed, the situation was fluid. Acknowledging the information situation would have generated understanding by readers of why the print story got it wrong. By ignoring it, some segment of the readership figured out what happened on their own; others assumed incompetence by the newspaper's editors. Another thought that comes to mind is more of a crisis-management solution: Since newspapers are now publishing to multiple media formats, and because they (should have) collected e-mail addresses of their print-edition customers, they could have sent out an "urgent correction" updating the story. If the paper has a cell-phone news service, they could use that, too. Finally, those wrong front-page headlines staring out of newspaper street racks all day are embarrassing. Perhaps printed posters should have been inserted in the racks with an accurate headline and a call to visit the newspaper's website. At least that's cheaper than printing a new edition. Post-game quarterbacking isn't terribly productive, of course, but perhaps these ideas will be useful&#160; the next time a big story turns 180 degrees in the middle of the night.</p> | 599,103 |
<p>The NCAA has now announced that they will punish the entire state of North Carolina for the state’s law preventing localities from forcing businesses to let men pee next to little girls, and states that public bathroom facilities must be utilized in accordance with biological sex. The NCAA statement explains that this is the Worst. Thing. Ever.</p>
<p>According to their press release, “Based on the NCAA’s commitment to fairness and inclusion, the Association will relocate all seven previously awarded championship events from North Carolina during the 2016-2017 academic year.” NCAA President Mark Emmert blathered, “Fairness is about more than the opportunity to participate in college sports, or even compete for championships. We believe in providing a safe and respectful environment at our events and are committed to providing the best experience possible for college athletes, fans and everyone taking part in our championships.” The NCAA added that because North Carolina laws are discriminatory against LGBT Americans, they cannot hold their championships there.</p>
<p>Now, the NCAA has every right to do this; they’re not a governmental body. But this is immoral and idiotic virtue signaling. The NCAA has not invalidated any of the NCAA-sanctioned events inside the state that are not high-profile. Duke and the University of North Carolina will continue to compete in state – so if the NCAA is deeply afraid of the evil North Carolinians picking up torches and going after Caitlyn Jenner, they really ought to cancel all NCAA events in the state.</p>
<p>They won’t.</p>
<p>Because they’re liars and hypocrites.</p>
<p>They also won’t disband independent male and female sports, which are cisgender and transphobic. After all, if a man wants to play for women’s teams, and a woman wants to play for a men’s team, why must there be separate categories? If gender is entirely a social construct, why reinforce that social construct through separate sex-specific sports?</p>
<p>The North Carolina GOP issued this epic response: “This is so absurd it’s almost comical. I genuinely look forward to the NCAA merging all men’s and women’s teams together as singular, unified, unisex teams. Under the NCAA’s logic, colleges should make cheerleaders and football players share bathrooms, showers and hotel rooms. This decision is an assault to female athletes across the nation. If you are unwilling to have women’s bathrooms and locker rooms, how do you have a women’s team? I wish the NCAA was this concerned about the women who were raped at Baylor. Perhaps the NCAA should stop with their political peacocking – and instead focus their energies on making sure our nation’s collegiate athletes are safe, both on and off the field.”</p>
<p>No answers will be forthcoming from the NCAA. But at least they have the support of the potential president of the United States, the ailing Hillary Clinton, who tweeted, “The NCAA is right to pull tournament games from North Carolina because of the anti-LGBT HB2 law. Discrimination has no place in America – H.”</p>
<p>Except, of course, when it does have a place in America: when governmental actors promote boycotts against private actors in states that have laws they don’t like. How many members of the Duke administration back HB2? How many members of the UNC administration do? Anybody?</p>
<p>More importantly, Hillary and her crew are more than happy to utilize the power of government to discriminate against women by forcing men into their bathrooms and locker rooms, and even more happy to discriminate against religious Americans who don’t want to participate in same-sex ceremonies and activities. Yet the NCAA isn’t pulling out of Washington State, where bakers are being sued out of business for following their private religious precepts.</p>
<p>The NCAA ought to pay a price from its audience for this sort of leftist pandering. Americans ought to tune out of their big games and events until the point when the NCAA stops being a tool for leftism and remains a sports organization. But that’s the problem with conservatives: we’re too easygoing. So we’ll continue to watch the NCAA championship and the left will continue hijacking sports to provoke leftist social change.</p>
<p>If you want to fight back against such nonsense, <a href="https://join.patmccrory.com/contribute-today/" type="external">donate to Governor Pat McCrory’s campaign in North Carolina here</a>.</p> | NCAA: Bathrooms Must Be Integrated, Sports Must Remain Separate But Equal | true | https://dailywire.com/news/9089/ncaa-bathrooms-must-be-integrated-sports-must-ben-shapiro | 2016-09-13 | 0right
| NCAA: Bathrooms Must Be Integrated, Sports Must Remain Separate But Equal
<p>The NCAA has now announced that they will punish the entire state of North Carolina for the state’s law preventing localities from forcing businesses to let men pee next to little girls, and states that public bathroom facilities must be utilized in accordance with biological sex. The NCAA statement explains that this is the Worst. Thing. Ever.</p>
<p>According to their press release, “Based on the NCAA’s commitment to fairness and inclusion, the Association will relocate all seven previously awarded championship events from North Carolina during the 2016-2017 academic year.” NCAA President Mark Emmert blathered, “Fairness is about more than the opportunity to participate in college sports, or even compete for championships. We believe in providing a safe and respectful environment at our events and are committed to providing the best experience possible for college athletes, fans and everyone taking part in our championships.” The NCAA added that because North Carolina laws are discriminatory against LGBT Americans, they cannot hold their championships there.</p>
<p>Now, the NCAA has every right to do this; they’re not a governmental body. But this is immoral and idiotic virtue signaling. The NCAA has not invalidated any of the NCAA-sanctioned events inside the state that are not high-profile. Duke and the University of North Carolina will continue to compete in state – so if the NCAA is deeply afraid of the evil North Carolinians picking up torches and going after Caitlyn Jenner, they really ought to cancel all NCAA events in the state.</p>
<p>They won’t.</p>
<p>Because they’re liars and hypocrites.</p>
<p>They also won’t disband independent male and female sports, which are cisgender and transphobic. After all, if a man wants to play for women’s teams, and a woman wants to play for a men’s team, why must there be separate categories? If gender is entirely a social construct, why reinforce that social construct through separate sex-specific sports?</p>
<p>The North Carolina GOP issued this epic response: “This is so absurd it’s almost comical. I genuinely look forward to the NCAA merging all men’s and women’s teams together as singular, unified, unisex teams. Under the NCAA’s logic, colleges should make cheerleaders and football players share bathrooms, showers and hotel rooms. This decision is an assault to female athletes across the nation. If you are unwilling to have women’s bathrooms and locker rooms, how do you have a women’s team? I wish the NCAA was this concerned about the women who were raped at Baylor. Perhaps the NCAA should stop with their political peacocking – and instead focus their energies on making sure our nation’s collegiate athletes are safe, both on and off the field.”</p>
<p>No answers will be forthcoming from the NCAA. But at least they have the support of the potential president of the United States, the ailing Hillary Clinton, who tweeted, “The NCAA is right to pull tournament games from North Carolina because of the anti-LGBT HB2 law. Discrimination has no place in America – H.”</p>
<p>Except, of course, when it does have a place in America: when governmental actors promote boycotts against private actors in states that have laws they don’t like. How many members of the Duke administration back HB2? How many members of the UNC administration do? Anybody?</p>
<p>More importantly, Hillary and her crew are more than happy to utilize the power of government to discriminate against women by forcing men into their bathrooms and locker rooms, and even more happy to discriminate against religious Americans who don’t want to participate in same-sex ceremonies and activities. Yet the NCAA isn’t pulling out of Washington State, where bakers are being sued out of business for following their private religious precepts.</p>
<p>The NCAA ought to pay a price from its audience for this sort of leftist pandering. Americans ought to tune out of their big games and events until the point when the NCAA stops being a tool for leftism and remains a sports organization. But that’s the problem with conservatives: we’re too easygoing. So we’ll continue to watch the NCAA championship and the left will continue hijacking sports to provoke leftist social change.</p>
<p>If you want to fight back against such nonsense, <a href="https://join.patmccrory.com/contribute-today/" type="external">donate to Governor Pat McCrory’s campaign in North Carolina here</a>.</p> | 599,104 |
<p>(Blade stock file photo)</p>
<p>Over the years, we’ve had many clients who wanted to buy a house when single. They were well qualified, but they couldn’t pull the trigger. Sometimes, it was with good reason — an unstable job or likely transfer out of the area, or simply deciding that in order to buy, they might have to sacrifice their ideal location and lifestyle to make it work. These are logical and common reasons that some of our clients decide they would rather rent for a little while longer as they iron out the details of their lives.</p>
<p>But all too often, the fear of ownership is something else entirely. They worry about how a purchase might affect their relationship prospects. Some fear that they might seem too intimidating on dates if they owned their own home. They might seem too independent or too tied down if it is someone out of the area. Others worry if they meet the person and decide to marry or move in, they will then have to quickly unload the property.</p>
<p>While all concerns when you are making a big financial purchase or life change are valid, it’s important to remember that buying a home doesn’t define or limit you. It simply adds to your investment portfolio — not to mention gives you a bigger tax break come April 15.</p>
<p>For those of you who are worried about buying a home while you are single, you’re not alone. Buying a home is a big decision and one that should be considered carefully. Our advice is to make sure you’re being honest about why you may or may not make decisions about buying. Buying a home is a large financial investment, one that pays off greatly over time for most people. It gives them a head start on their real estate investment portfolio and often, the money they make on their first home pays for the down payment of their move-up home. Time and time again, we have had clients that prove it makes great financial and personal sense to buy. If you’re qualified to purchase a home and are planning to live in the area for the next couple of years, it almost always makes financial sense to buy.</p>
<p>In our office, we like to say nothing looks sexier on a person than real estate – and it’s true.</p>
<p>So many of our clients have found “the one” soon after purchasing their home. In fact, in my first condo building, five of the single residents who purchased homes in the newly completed 13 unit building were engaged or married within two years of purchasing their first condo. Some moved out and sold their unit, some rented it out, while in others the significant other moved in.</p>
<p>We have one client who purchased a townhouse in her 20s and rented the extra room to a roommate to pay down some of the mortgage. In a few years, she was making more money and was able to live in the house by herself. Shortly after, she met her future spouse and he moved in, contributing again to her mortgage. Later, they decided to buy a property together and keep her original home as an investment property. Other clients have sold their property and used the proceeds to purchase a new home with their new significant other. There are so many options.</p>
<p>Of course, I can’t guarantee that you’ll meet “the one” in the elevator of your new condo building like a Hollywood romantic comedy. But, you will have a new sense of self worth and accomplishment to go along with a fantastic new financial investment in your portfolio. And, of course, you can decorate and customize your new home however you want now that you are no longer renting. Win, win!</p>
<p>Allison Goodhart DuShuttle is lead agent for the Goodhart Group, Alexandria’s and&#160;McEnearney Associates’&#160;top-producing&#160;real estate team. In&#160;2015, she&#160;was nationally recognized by&#160;Realtor Magazine, being named to its “30 Under 30” club. Reach her at 703-362-3221&#160;or&#160; <a href="mailto:[email protected]" type="external">[email protected]</a>.&#160;</p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Allison Goodhart DuShuttle</a> <a href="" type="internal">McEnearney Associates</a> <a href="" type="internal">Millennials</a> <a href="" type="internal">the Goodhart Group</a></p> | To buy or not when you’re single | false | http://washingtonblade.com/2016/07/22/buy-not-youre-single/ | 3left-center
| To buy or not when you’re single
<p>(Blade stock file photo)</p>
<p>Over the years, we’ve had many clients who wanted to buy a house when single. They were well qualified, but they couldn’t pull the trigger. Sometimes, it was with good reason — an unstable job or likely transfer out of the area, or simply deciding that in order to buy, they might have to sacrifice their ideal location and lifestyle to make it work. These are logical and common reasons that some of our clients decide they would rather rent for a little while longer as they iron out the details of their lives.</p>
<p>But all too often, the fear of ownership is something else entirely. They worry about how a purchase might affect their relationship prospects. Some fear that they might seem too intimidating on dates if they owned their own home. They might seem too independent or too tied down if it is someone out of the area. Others worry if they meet the person and decide to marry or move in, they will then have to quickly unload the property.</p>
<p>While all concerns when you are making a big financial purchase or life change are valid, it’s important to remember that buying a home doesn’t define or limit you. It simply adds to your investment portfolio — not to mention gives you a bigger tax break come April 15.</p>
<p>For those of you who are worried about buying a home while you are single, you’re not alone. Buying a home is a big decision and one that should be considered carefully. Our advice is to make sure you’re being honest about why you may or may not make decisions about buying. Buying a home is a large financial investment, one that pays off greatly over time for most people. It gives them a head start on their real estate investment portfolio and often, the money they make on their first home pays for the down payment of their move-up home. Time and time again, we have had clients that prove it makes great financial and personal sense to buy. If you’re qualified to purchase a home and are planning to live in the area for the next couple of years, it almost always makes financial sense to buy.</p>
<p>In our office, we like to say nothing looks sexier on a person than real estate – and it’s true.</p>
<p>So many of our clients have found “the one” soon after purchasing their home. In fact, in my first condo building, five of the single residents who purchased homes in the newly completed 13 unit building were engaged or married within two years of purchasing their first condo. Some moved out and sold their unit, some rented it out, while in others the significant other moved in.</p>
<p>We have one client who purchased a townhouse in her 20s and rented the extra room to a roommate to pay down some of the mortgage. In a few years, she was making more money and was able to live in the house by herself. Shortly after, she met her future spouse and he moved in, contributing again to her mortgage. Later, they decided to buy a property together and keep her original home as an investment property. Other clients have sold their property and used the proceeds to purchase a new home with their new significant other. There are so many options.</p>
<p>Of course, I can’t guarantee that you’ll meet “the one” in the elevator of your new condo building like a Hollywood romantic comedy. But, you will have a new sense of self worth and accomplishment to go along with a fantastic new financial investment in your portfolio. And, of course, you can decorate and customize your new home however you want now that you are no longer renting. Win, win!</p>
<p>Allison Goodhart DuShuttle is lead agent for the Goodhart Group, Alexandria’s and&#160;McEnearney Associates’&#160;top-producing&#160;real estate team. In&#160;2015, she&#160;was nationally recognized by&#160;Realtor Magazine, being named to its “30 Under 30” club. Reach her at 703-362-3221&#160;or&#160; <a href="mailto:[email protected]" type="external">[email protected]</a>.&#160;</p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Allison Goodhart DuShuttle</a> <a href="" type="internal">McEnearney Associates</a> <a href="" type="internal">Millennials</a> <a href="" type="internal">the Goodhart Group</a></p> | 599,105 |
|
<p>The Palestinian stabbing intifada has carried over to Europe, where an assailant attacked an Orthodox Jewish man, stabbing him seven times outside of a kosher pizzeria in Milan, Italy. Witnesses allege that the attacker was an <a href="https://www.thelocal.it/20151113/jewish-man-stabbed-in-milan-street-attack" type="external">Arab woman with an apparent face covering</a>, although the police have not yet announced the suspect’s identity.</p>
<p>"The victim, an Israeli citizen identified by Milan's Jewish community as 40-year-old Nathan Graff, was attacked from behind Thursday evening and suffered three wounds to the back, three around the face and one to the arm, said police spokeswoman Magica Palmisano," <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/police-man-stabbed-orthodox-jew-milan-35173303" type="external">reports</a> ABC News.</p>
<p>Graff was wearing a yarmulke, the traditional Jewish head covering, at the time. The most grievous injury was inflicted to his face where he suffered from deep lacerations; Graff is currently recovering from the assault at a local hospital as his condition is non-life threatening.</p>
<p>Despite the ubiquity of clear anti-Semitic overtones, Italian law enforcement authorities tried to downplay the attack, suggesting that concrete evidence of a hate crime has yet to surface. Regrettably, Italian officials are burying their hands in the sand, refusing to admit what the European commission has already acknowledged: <a href="" type="internal">anti-Semitism haunts Europe</a>. Last month, Vice President Frans Timmermans confessed, “In the last couple of years you’ve seen this age-old monster come up again in Europe," urging European members to recognize the threat against Jewish bodies. “It’s a vital question for the future that our Jewish community feels at ease and completely at home.”</p>
<p>Attacks against Jews have risen dramatically in the last year as anti-Semitism masked as senseless critiques against Israel litter public discourse. The Daily Wire’s Joshua Yasmeh notes:</p>
<p>In May, four people were shot and killed at the Jewish Museum in Brussels. In June, a Jewish-owned pharmacy in a Paris suburb was destroyed by disaffected youths protesting against Israel. Again in July, Muslim rioters stampeded through a predominately Jewish neighborhood in Paris, hurling Molotov cocktails at synagogue windows and burning cars. On the burial ground of Jewish souls stripped of life by the Third Reich, arsonists attacked a synagogue in Wuppertal, Germany with firebombs.</p>
<p>“In the last couple of years you’ve seen this age-old monster come up again in Europe."</p>
<p>Frans Timmermans</p>
<p>In fact, Yasmeh argues that the proliferation of anti-Semitic attacks in Europe is a result of a spillover effect from the Arab world. “Europe’s own failure to effectively integrate its disenfranchised Muslim minorities into the fabric of civil society has cultivated a generation of rancor and resentment in which Muslim youths are confined to both spatial and ideological ethnic enclaves, marginalized by a broader xenophobic European society...The crude love affair between imported Muslim prejudice and residual European anti-Semitism clearly threatens the future of Europe’s Jews.”</p> | Muslim Stabbing Attacks on Jews Extend to Italy | true | https://dailywire.com/news/1110/muslim-stabbing-attacks-jews-extend-italy-michael-qazvini | 2015-11-13 | 0right
| Muslim Stabbing Attacks on Jews Extend to Italy
<p>The Palestinian stabbing intifada has carried over to Europe, where an assailant attacked an Orthodox Jewish man, stabbing him seven times outside of a kosher pizzeria in Milan, Italy. Witnesses allege that the attacker was an <a href="https://www.thelocal.it/20151113/jewish-man-stabbed-in-milan-street-attack" type="external">Arab woman with an apparent face covering</a>, although the police have not yet announced the suspect’s identity.</p>
<p>"The victim, an Israeli citizen identified by Milan's Jewish community as 40-year-old Nathan Graff, was attacked from behind Thursday evening and suffered three wounds to the back, three around the face and one to the arm, said police spokeswoman Magica Palmisano," <a href="http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/police-man-stabbed-orthodox-jew-milan-35173303" type="external">reports</a> ABC News.</p>
<p>Graff was wearing a yarmulke, the traditional Jewish head covering, at the time. The most grievous injury was inflicted to his face where he suffered from deep lacerations; Graff is currently recovering from the assault at a local hospital as his condition is non-life threatening.</p>
<p>Despite the ubiquity of clear anti-Semitic overtones, Italian law enforcement authorities tried to downplay the attack, suggesting that concrete evidence of a hate crime has yet to surface. Regrettably, Italian officials are burying their hands in the sand, refusing to admit what the European commission has already acknowledged: <a href="" type="internal">anti-Semitism haunts Europe</a>. Last month, Vice President Frans Timmermans confessed, “In the last couple of years you’ve seen this age-old monster come up again in Europe," urging European members to recognize the threat against Jewish bodies. “It’s a vital question for the future that our Jewish community feels at ease and completely at home.”</p>
<p>Attacks against Jews have risen dramatically in the last year as anti-Semitism masked as senseless critiques against Israel litter public discourse. The Daily Wire’s Joshua Yasmeh notes:</p>
<p>In May, four people were shot and killed at the Jewish Museum in Brussels. In June, a Jewish-owned pharmacy in a Paris suburb was destroyed by disaffected youths protesting against Israel. Again in July, Muslim rioters stampeded through a predominately Jewish neighborhood in Paris, hurling Molotov cocktails at synagogue windows and burning cars. On the burial ground of Jewish souls stripped of life by the Third Reich, arsonists attacked a synagogue in Wuppertal, Germany with firebombs.</p>
<p>“In the last couple of years you’ve seen this age-old monster come up again in Europe."</p>
<p>Frans Timmermans</p>
<p>In fact, Yasmeh argues that the proliferation of anti-Semitic attacks in Europe is a result of a spillover effect from the Arab world. “Europe’s own failure to effectively integrate its disenfranchised Muslim minorities into the fabric of civil society has cultivated a generation of rancor and resentment in which Muslim youths are confined to both spatial and ideological ethnic enclaves, marginalized by a broader xenophobic European society...The crude love affair between imported Muslim prejudice and residual European anti-Semitism clearly threatens the future of Europe’s Jews.”</p> | 599,106 |
<p />
<p>Some especially persistent voters rifle through Federal Election Commission filings in their spare time, poring over the latest data dumps and <a href="" type="internal">tracking outside money</a> for insight into who’s influencing the vote. Luckily for those of us with less time (or patience), tech-savvy politicos have figured out ways to filter through all that info and send some of the juicier bits straight to our favorite gadgets. Now you can peel back the facade of the mysterious backer of that one issues ad or view a whole compilation of polls at a moment’s notice. These six apps can make it more enticing, not to mention a lot faster, to tap into what’s going on behind the scenes of the horse race.</p>
<p>The Political Shazam Nearly half of the more than <a href="http://firstread.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/08/16/13319834-political-campaign-ad-spending-tops-500-million?lite" type="external">$500 million in political ads</a> out as of August 2012 were funded by outside groups—committees with ambiguous sounding names like <a href="" type="internal">Priorities USA Action</a> or <a href="" type="internal">Americans for Prosperity</a>.&#160; <a href="http://adhawk.sunlightfoundation.com" type="external">Ad Hawk</a>, from <a href="http://sunlightlabs.com/" type="external">Sunlight Labs</a>, essentially runs a background check on the constant stream of political&#160;TV and radio ads. You just let the app listen to any ad as it plays, and in less than 30 seconds it will identify the group behind the ad and its bankrollers, and tell you how much of its cash has gone to supporting (or trashing) Democrats or Republicans. Ad Hawk is especially useful for learning more about the notoriously elusive super-PACs and 501(c)s—although when I asked Sunlight Labs’ Director Tom Lee to name a notable recent ad, he pointed to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6z5zC8W2Mk" type="external">Harold the Cat’s</a> gag run for a Virginia Senate seat. (Free, available for iOS and Android.)</p>
<p>The Donor Data Miners <a href="http://maplight.org/" type="external">MapLight’s</a>&#160; <a href="http://politicash.co" type="external">Politicash 2012</a> sifts through the donations pouring into each candidates’ coffers and summarizes where the cash is coming from. The results can be a bit surprising: Obama’s top campaign contributor, according to Politicash, are federal employees, with $2.1 million in donations. For Romney? Goldman Sachs employees, who gave a relatively paltry $726,490. (Super-PAC donations are another story; see <a href="" type="internal">our interactive map</a> of the dark-money universe, where Romney reigns.) Culling the latest data from the Federal Election Commission, Politicash 2012 also keeps a running tally of how much money Obama and Romney and their primary super-PACs have raised and spent, and how much cash each candidate and his super-PACs have left—stats that for some reason make rooting for your candidate more exciting. (Free, available for iOS and Android.) If you want to scrutinize the donations behind congressional races and investigate interest groups, there’s also&#160; <a href="http://www.opensecrets.org/resources/dollarocracy/support.php" type="external">Dollarocracy</a>, an app from <a href="http://www.opensecrets.org/" type="external">Center for Responsive Politics</a> (also free and available for iOS).</p>
<p>The Handheld Truth-O-Meter President Obama claims that 50 million people would lose their health insurance if Obamacare is repealed. Romney asserts that Obama has “doubled” the deficit. <a href="http://www.politifact.com/settleit/" type="external">Settle It!</a> helps you get to the truth of such claims, drawing on research by the crack fact-checkers at <a href="http://www.politifact.com/" type="external">PolitiFact</a>. The app has a searchable database of more than 6,000 statements made by government officials, public figures, and celebrities—all rated for truthfulness. (The above statements by Obama and Romney are deemed “Mostly False” and “False,” respectively.) Settle It! lets you star favorite topics for easy access at cocktail parties—or post them directly to Facebook for your next heated debate with your coworker’s tennis partner’s third cousin. (Free, available for iOS and Android.)</p>
<p>The Pollster’s Paradise Wondering what effect the latest news cycle is having on voter opinion nationwide or in the swing states? <a href="http://talkingpointsmemo.com/" type="external">Talking Points Memo</a>‘s&#160; <a href="http://polltracker.talkingpointsmemo.com" type="external">PollTracker</a> will push more real-time polling data to your iDevice than you ever knew existed. The app averages an array of polling sources—predictions for the November presidential outcome, for instance, might combine the latest Reuters, Rasmussen, and Gallup figures—and displays percentages in big, easy-to-read numbers. You can search by race, state, or political issue. And with stats updated minutes after each new poll is released, the app gives an instant snapshot of what the country is feeling—for the moment at least. (Free, available for iOS.)</p>
<p>The Spectrum Searcher <a href="http://stitcher.com" type="external">Stitcher’s Election Center 2012</a> is like TiVo for all the political talk radio you’ve been missing while canvassing door to door. This election-centric hub within the main Stitcher app scours more than 10,000 radio programs and podcasts for political buzzwords like “voter ID law” or “fiscal cliff,” and then lets you fast forward to the specific mention in a broadcast, or listen from the beginning. It also has streams for all of the presidential candidates—third parties included—with audio of all of their recent appearances on the airwaves. (Free, available for iOS and Android.)</p>
<p /> | 6 Must-Have Apps for Political Junkies | true | https://motherjones.com/politics/2012/10/6-mobile-apps-election-outside-spending/ | 2012-10-17 | 4left
| 6 Must-Have Apps for Political Junkies
<p />
<p>Some especially persistent voters rifle through Federal Election Commission filings in their spare time, poring over the latest data dumps and <a href="" type="internal">tracking outside money</a> for insight into who’s influencing the vote. Luckily for those of us with less time (or patience), tech-savvy politicos have figured out ways to filter through all that info and send some of the juicier bits straight to our favorite gadgets. Now you can peel back the facade of the mysterious backer of that one issues ad or view a whole compilation of polls at a moment’s notice. These six apps can make it more enticing, not to mention a lot faster, to tap into what’s going on behind the scenes of the horse race.</p>
<p>The Political Shazam Nearly half of the more than <a href="http://firstread.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/08/16/13319834-political-campaign-ad-spending-tops-500-million?lite" type="external">$500 million in political ads</a> out as of August 2012 were funded by outside groups—committees with ambiguous sounding names like <a href="" type="internal">Priorities USA Action</a> or <a href="" type="internal">Americans for Prosperity</a>.&#160; <a href="http://adhawk.sunlightfoundation.com" type="external">Ad Hawk</a>, from <a href="http://sunlightlabs.com/" type="external">Sunlight Labs</a>, essentially runs a background check on the constant stream of political&#160;TV and radio ads. You just let the app listen to any ad as it plays, and in less than 30 seconds it will identify the group behind the ad and its bankrollers, and tell you how much of its cash has gone to supporting (or trashing) Democrats or Republicans. Ad Hawk is especially useful for learning more about the notoriously elusive super-PACs and 501(c)s—although when I asked Sunlight Labs’ Director Tom Lee to name a notable recent ad, he pointed to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6z5zC8W2Mk" type="external">Harold the Cat’s</a> gag run for a Virginia Senate seat. (Free, available for iOS and Android.)</p>
<p>The Donor Data Miners <a href="http://maplight.org/" type="external">MapLight’s</a>&#160; <a href="http://politicash.co" type="external">Politicash 2012</a> sifts through the donations pouring into each candidates’ coffers and summarizes where the cash is coming from. The results can be a bit surprising: Obama’s top campaign contributor, according to Politicash, are federal employees, with $2.1 million in donations. For Romney? Goldman Sachs employees, who gave a relatively paltry $726,490. (Super-PAC donations are another story; see <a href="" type="internal">our interactive map</a> of the dark-money universe, where Romney reigns.) Culling the latest data from the Federal Election Commission, Politicash 2012 also keeps a running tally of how much money Obama and Romney and their primary super-PACs have raised and spent, and how much cash each candidate and his super-PACs have left—stats that for some reason make rooting for your candidate more exciting. (Free, available for iOS and Android.) If you want to scrutinize the donations behind congressional races and investigate interest groups, there’s also&#160; <a href="http://www.opensecrets.org/resources/dollarocracy/support.php" type="external">Dollarocracy</a>, an app from <a href="http://www.opensecrets.org/" type="external">Center for Responsive Politics</a> (also free and available for iOS).</p>
<p>The Handheld Truth-O-Meter President Obama claims that 50 million people would lose their health insurance if Obamacare is repealed. Romney asserts that Obama has “doubled” the deficit. <a href="http://www.politifact.com/settleit/" type="external">Settle It!</a> helps you get to the truth of such claims, drawing on research by the crack fact-checkers at <a href="http://www.politifact.com/" type="external">PolitiFact</a>. The app has a searchable database of more than 6,000 statements made by government officials, public figures, and celebrities—all rated for truthfulness. (The above statements by Obama and Romney are deemed “Mostly False” and “False,” respectively.) Settle It! lets you star favorite topics for easy access at cocktail parties—or post them directly to Facebook for your next heated debate with your coworker’s tennis partner’s third cousin. (Free, available for iOS and Android.)</p>
<p>The Pollster’s Paradise Wondering what effect the latest news cycle is having on voter opinion nationwide or in the swing states? <a href="http://talkingpointsmemo.com/" type="external">Talking Points Memo</a>‘s&#160; <a href="http://polltracker.talkingpointsmemo.com" type="external">PollTracker</a> will push more real-time polling data to your iDevice than you ever knew existed. The app averages an array of polling sources—predictions for the November presidential outcome, for instance, might combine the latest Reuters, Rasmussen, and Gallup figures—and displays percentages in big, easy-to-read numbers. You can search by race, state, or political issue. And with stats updated minutes after each new poll is released, the app gives an instant snapshot of what the country is feeling—for the moment at least. (Free, available for iOS.)</p>
<p>The Spectrum Searcher <a href="http://stitcher.com" type="external">Stitcher’s Election Center 2012</a> is like TiVo for all the political talk radio you’ve been missing while canvassing door to door. This election-centric hub within the main Stitcher app scours more than 10,000 radio programs and podcasts for political buzzwords like “voter ID law” or “fiscal cliff,” and then lets you fast forward to the specific mention in a broadcast, or listen from the beginning. It also has streams for all of the presidential candidates—third parties included—with audio of all of their recent appearances on the airwaves. (Free, available for iOS and Android.)</p>
<p /> | 599,107 |
<p>Some people believe the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions campaign may be an important step toward true peace between Israel and Palestine; an old Belgian ghost town has become a graffiti artist haven; meanwhile, more and more problems between book publishers and Amazon are expected to arise. These discoveries and more below.</p> | Is the BDS Movement the Key to Peace in the Middle East? | true | https://truthdig.com/articles/is-the-bds-movement-the-key-to-peace-in-the-middle-east/ | 2014-06-11 | 4left
| Is the BDS Movement the Key to Peace in the Middle East?
<p>Some people believe the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions campaign may be an important step toward true peace between Israel and Palestine; an old Belgian ghost town has become a graffiti artist haven; meanwhile, more and more problems between book publishers and Amazon are expected to arise. These discoveries and more below.</p> | 599,108 |
<p>So this is how the “ownership society” works. We own all the bad stuff.</p>
<p>It’s been so long since President Bush talked about an “ownership society” that perhaps you’ve forgotten what he meant. Initially, it meant partially privatizing Social Security so that average Americans would fund their own retirement through personal savings and supposedly astute management of their investments. The public recoiled. Notwithstanding Republican presidential candidate John McCain’s continued support for some form of private Social Security accounts, this has about as much chance of clearing Congress as the hapless Washington Nationals have of making the baseball playoffs. That is, no chance.</p>
<p>Now Bush’s “ownership society” has morphed into this: Taxpayers are going to own about $700 billion — or a trillion, or more — in bad debts amassed by what were supposed to be the best financial brains in the world. What we will own are potentially worthless assets for which there are currently no private buyers. After more than three decades of being told we can’t afford to keep a modest safety net beneath the people on Main Street, we have thrown the mother of all lifelines to Wall Street.</p>
<p>This is the conservative dogma that has constrained our politics for a generation.</p>
<p />
<p>We’ve been lectured incessantly about costly “entitlements” such as Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid that are supposedly wrecking the federal balance sheet and endangering our collective financial future. How many times have you heard that these programs are “unsustainable” and represent fiscal “time bombs”? I stopped counting about 15 years ago.</p>
<p>Among the other things we’ve been told there is no money for are repairs of decrepit roads and bridges, a boost in mass transit funding to replace at least some of our oil-gulping, automobile-dominated transportation system, increased college aid, more federal money to try to equalize our unequal public education system and expanded health insurance so that more poor kids can see a doctor. This list is, of course, grossly incomplete.</p>
<p>Within weeks, Treasury Department staff members or the apparatchiks attached to some new oversight team are going to be engaged in high-stakes negotiations with businesses over what price the government will pay for their iffy paper. Meanwhile, the same government is prohibited from negotiating with drug companies to get discounts on prescriptions for Medicare patients. Why? Because that would be socialism!</p>
<p>Which raises the larger question. If we can socialize the banking industry, why can’t we socialize the health insurance industry?</p>
<p>The government is going to shoulder business risks that went bad. But for decades the political system has resisted the common-sense suggestion that the risk of getting sick, which we all face, is best handled when it is spread among the broadest possible pool — that is, taxpayers. Here is where our political judgment has taken us: We allow families to be bankrupted by illness, but we won’t allow financial giants to be bankrupted by greed and incompetence.</p>
<p>We don’t have much choice other than to go forward with some version of a financial-system bailout. Without it, we are told, the global economy would be facing a catastrophe on the magnitude of the Great Depression. I do not pretend to have the insight or expertise to counter this argument, and so, like just about everyone else, I reluctantly will have to go along.</p>
<p>But there are some arguments that simply should no longer be accepted.</p>
<p>One is that working Americans must have their future health and retirement benefits substantially cut while Wall Street gets a newfangled “entitlement” of its own. Another is that we just can’t have all the government we need. The disastrous response to Hurricane Katrina was supposed to put an end to the notion that government is always the problem and never the solution. Since government is now the savior of financial operators, no one should dare suggest it shouldn’t operate for the greater social good.</p>
<p>The era of big government is back. Any politician who votes to bail out Wall Street titans while simultaneously telling average Americans to suck it up and tighten their belts should be booted from office. Any politician who claims taxes can continue to be cut in the face of the gargantuan debt we are about to take on should be shown the door.</p>
<p>The chatter in the business world is that a “new model” of finance must emerge from the ruins left by the shattering of the old. The same must apply to our politics, too.</p>
<p>Marie Cocco’s e-mail address is mariecocco(at)washpost.com.</p>
<p>© 2008, Washington Post Writers Group</p> | Socialism for Dummies | true | https://truthdig.com/articles/socialism-for-dummies/ | 2008-09-23 | 4left
| Socialism for Dummies
<p>So this is how the “ownership society” works. We own all the bad stuff.</p>
<p>It’s been so long since President Bush talked about an “ownership society” that perhaps you’ve forgotten what he meant. Initially, it meant partially privatizing Social Security so that average Americans would fund their own retirement through personal savings and supposedly astute management of their investments. The public recoiled. Notwithstanding Republican presidential candidate John McCain’s continued support for some form of private Social Security accounts, this has about as much chance of clearing Congress as the hapless Washington Nationals have of making the baseball playoffs. That is, no chance.</p>
<p>Now Bush’s “ownership society” has morphed into this: Taxpayers are going to own about $700 billion — or a trillion, or more — in bad debts amassed by what were supposed to be the best financial brains in the world. What we will own are potentially worthless assets for which there are currently no private buyers. After more than three decades of being told we can’t afford to keep a modest safety net beneath the people on Main Street, we have thrown the mother of all lifelines to Wall Street.</p>
<p>This is the conservative dogma that has constrained our politics for a generation.</p>
<p />
<p>We’ve been lectured incessantly about costly “entitlements” such as Social Security, Medicare and Medicaid that are supposedly wrecking the federal balance sheet and endangering our collective financial future. How many times have you heard that these programs are “unsustainable” and represent fiscal “time bombs”? I stopped counting about 15 years ago.</p>
<p>Among the other things we’ve been told there is no money for are repairs of decrepit roads and bridges, a boost in mass transit funding to replace at least some of our oil-gulping, automobile-dominated transportation system, increased college aid, more federal money to try to equalize our unequal public education system and expanded health insurance so that more poor kids can see a doctor. This list is, of course, grossly incomplete.</p>
<p>Within weeks, Treasury Department staff members or the apparatchiks attached to some new oversight team are going to be engaged in high-stakes negotiations with businesses over what price the government will pay for their iffy paper. Meanwhile, the same government is prohibited from negotiating with drug companies to get discounts on prescriptions for Medicare patients. Why? Because that would be socialism!</p>
<p>Which raises the larger question. If we can socialize the banking industry, why can’t we socialize the health insurance industry?</p>
<p>The government is going to shoulder business risks that went bad. But for decades the political system has resisted the common-sense suggestion that the risk of getting sick, which we all face, is best handled when it is spread among the broadest possible pool — that is, taxpayers. Here is where our political judgment has taken us: We allow families to be bankrupted by illness, but we won’t allow financial giants to be bankrupted by greed and incompetence.</p>
<p>We don’t have much choice other than to go forward with some version of a financial-system bailout. Without it, we are told, the global economy would be facing a catastrophe on the magnitude of the Great Depression. I do not pretend to have the insight or expertise to counter this argument, and so, like just about everyone else, I reluctantly will have to go along.</p>
<p>But there are some arguments that simply should no longer be accepted.</p>
<p>One is that working Americans must have their future health and retirement benefits substantially cut while Wall Street gets a newfangled “entitlement” of its own. Another is that we just can’t have all the government we need. The disastrous response to Hurricane Katrina was supposed to put an end to the notion that government is always the problem and never the solution. Since government is now the savior of financial operators, no one should dare suggest it shouldn’t operate for the greater social good.</p>
<p>The era of big government is back. Any politician who votes to bail out Wall Street titans while simultaneously telling average Americans to suck it up and tighten their belts should be booted from office. Any politician who claims taxes can continue to be cut in the face of the gargantuan debt we are about to take on should be shown the door.</p>
<p>The chatter in the business world is that a “new model” of finance must emerge from the ruins left by the shattering of the old. The same must apply to our politics, too.</p>
<p>Marie Cocco’s e-mail address is mariecocco(at)washpost.com.</p>
<p>© 2008, Washington Post Writers Group</p> | 599,109 |
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p>Northern at Unser is now open again, Rio Rancho PD says.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>5:25 p.m. — A serious two-vehicle crash has both directions of Northern Boulevard closed at Unser, Rio Rancho police reports</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p> | Northern at Unser reopened | false | https://abqjournal.com/187422/crash-shuts-northern-at-unser.html | 2013-04-10 | 2least
| Northern at Unser reopened
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p>Northern at Unser is now open again, Rio Rancho PD says.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>5:25 p.m. — A serious two-vehicle crash has both directions of Northern Boulevard closed at Unser, Rio Rancho police reports</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p> | 599,110 |
<p>The protest at the prison was spirited. Last year when Amos had his first serious date under his current warrant, I had asked him what sort of behavior protest he would appreciate outside the prison. I offered him a choice–“Prayerful,” or “Loud.” He said “Make it loud.” And we did.</p>
<p>Bonnie Flassig of Gainesville Citizens for Alternatives to the DP, who was today’s vigil coordinator, led a short series of invocations and comments during which she several times asked for response by those present to make themselves heard. When that happened, we rang bells, beat makeshift drums, yelled, etc. Once the text was read and candles lit for Amos, the victim, the participants in the killing, and for all of us, we then launched into ongoing and somewhat rhythmic percussion that lasted at least 40 minutes. I banged a large metal mixing bowl with a stick for more than 20 minutes while blowing a whistle repeatedly. And it felt good to be making noise…..</p>
<p>Once I stopped banging and blowing, at about 6:15pm, I pulled out a roll of yellow crime scene tape and unfurled that along the rope separating us from the road, while declaring that “The state has killed a man for whom there is no proof of his guilt! This is a crime scene!” And from there others continued to rattle their shakers, bang their drums, ring their bells, etc… It was another 30 minutes or so before we saw the witness vans leaving the prison. As it turns out there was a delay while they waited for final determinations from the US and Florida Supreme Courts.</p>
<p>Also present at the protest was “Jeb Bush,” who was serving up slices of “Vengeance Pie.”</p>
<p>We stashed our signs by the cars and walked over to the media tent to await the media witnesses. The prison spokesman came to the podium and gave his usual time of death, “killed in a professional and humane manner….” bullshit rap, and answered a few questions. As he was speaking, Kobutsu was dropped off on the road adjacent to the media tent. Amy Jo Smith, who was driving him, had not been allowed to drop him in the media parking lot, so she did the next best thing. It made for a great entrance for Kobutsu, — who looks quite out of place, like a dock worker in the clerical robes of a Buddhist priest — as he walked into the tent from behind the prison spokesperson.</p>
<p>Once the prison guy stepped away, I stepped to the podium, introduced myself, pointed out Bill Pelke and SueZann Bosler — two murder victim family members who were there to protest, and then I introduced Kobutsu. And Kobutsu went to town–he was great, proclaiming that we were all murderers, that we all had blood on our hands, that he had been threatened by the prison authorities, and more. I am sure he will provide his perspective in due course. Then he took questions, and after a few minutes, the victims families van pulled into the media parking lot. Instead of waiting for them to come to the tent, the media all went and ambushed them in the media parking lot. We followed them, but I couldn’t hear very much of anything that was said. It was both unfortunate, and comical, however, that the prison media people allowed the victims families to be accosted in that way instead of insisting that the media use the podium that had been set up…..</p>
<p>After all of that was over, a group of us drove into Gainesville for dinner at a Thai restaurant run by Buddhists who Kobutsu knows. Apparently they prepared the last meal for Dan Houser, another Buddhist executed in Florida not too long ago. They made a special meal for Kobutsu. I had the buffet–it was delicious.</p>
<p>At dinner, Kobutsu told us that he could definitely hear our noise from within the prison, and that it had an impact on him and the prisoners, and also the witnesses and prison people. He encouraged more of the same at future extermination protests.</p>
<p>And from there, SueZann, Carolyn and I had another four hours to drive…..</p>
<p>Protests were also held in Clearwater (Tampa Bay), Orlando, Tallahassee, Gainesville, Jacksonville and Ft. Lauderdale. Here are some of those reports:</p>
<p>Clearwater:</p>
<p>At the vigil on Ulmerton Road, about twenty people held signs, read passages from an essay by Garry Wills and the Psalms, sang “Amazing Grace,” and chanted a Buddhist peace chant as thousands drove by. Four TV stations, a radio station and a newspaper were at our vigil as well. This vigil was quieter, but who knows how many we also touched? And how many lives all our actions for peace and justice touch?</p>
<p>FT. Lauderdale</p>
<p>There were 8 of us at the demonstration Wednesday in Ft. Lauderdale. We wore T-shirts supplied by Bernice that said “Stop the Death Penalty. Execution of Amos King Feb. 26, 2003.” We talked to several passerby and handed out literature. The first, someone named Jim, was first talking for the Death Penalty but without the usual anger. I replied to his statements. He didn’t seem to have firm convictions of his own. After I said that there were serious questions about Amos King’s innocence Jim said, “They are executing an innocent man!” Jim asked if he could join us. He picked up a sign, put on a T-shirt and joined the protest.</p>
<p>Jacksonville</p>
<p>There were ten JCFAM folks who participated in the Amos King vigil on the sidewalk in front of the Duval County Court House, 5 to 6:15 PM on Wednesday, Feb 26. We all carried posters to be read by the workers leaving the Court House and the vehicular traffic on Bay Street. At 6 PM, the group circled for a candle-light prayer and reflection time at which Amos King and all the victims of violent crimes were remembered. The tower bells of the Episcopal Cathedral, Immaculate Conception and Presbyterian churches in downtown Jacksonville were rung at 6 PM as part of the vigil. It turned cold and very windy during our time there. A number of greetings of affirmation were received from passers-by and two pedestrians joined the prayer/reflection circle. The press and TV stations were notified but no one showed for coverage.</p>
<p>ABE BONOWITZ is director of <a href="http://www.fadp.org/index.html" type="external">Floridians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty</a>. He can be reached at: <a href="mailto:[email protected]" type="external">[email protected]</a></p>
<p>&#160;</p> | Reflections on the Death of Amos King | true | https://counterpunch.org/2003/03/03/reflections-on-the-death-of-amos-king/ | 2003-03-03 | 4left
| Reflections on the Death of Amos King
<p>The protest at the prison was spirited. Last year when Amos had his first serious date under his current warrant, I had asked him what sort of behavior protest he would appreciate outside the prison. I offered him a choice–“Prayerful,” or “Loud.” He said “Make it loud.” And we did.</p>
<p>Bonnie Flassig of Gainesville Citizens for Alternatives to the DP, who was today’s vigil coordinator, led a short series of invocations and comments during which she several times asked for response by those present to make themselves heard. When that happened, we rang bells, beat makeshift drums, yelled, etc. Once the text was read and candles lit for Amos, the victim, the participants in the killing, and for all of us, we then launched into ongoing and somewhat rhythmic percussion that lasted at least 40 minutes. I banged a large metal mixing bowl with a stick for more than 20 minutes while blowing a whistle repeatedly. And it felt good to be making noise…..</p>
<p>Once I stopped banging and blowing, at about 6:15pm, I pulled out a roll of yellow crime scene tape and unfurled that along the rope separating us from the road, while declaring that “The state has killed a man for whom there is no proof of his guilt! This is a crime scene!” And from there others continued to rattle their shakers, bang their drums, ring their bells, etc… It was another 30 minutes or so before we saw the witness vans leaving the prison. As it turns out there was a delay while they waited for final determinations from the US and Florida Supreme Courts.</p>
<p>Also present at the protest was “Jeb Bush,” who was serving up slices of “Vengeance Pie.”</p>
<p>We stashed our signs by the cars and walked over to the media tent to await the media witnesses. The prison spokesman came to the podium and gave his usual time of death, “killed in a professional and humane manner….” bullshit rap, and answered a few questions. As he was speaking, Kobutsu was dropped off on the road adjacent to the media tent. Amy Jo Smith, who was driving him, had not been allowed to drop him in the media parking lot, so she did the next best thing. It made for a great entrance for Kobutsu, — who looks quite out of place, like a dock worker in the clerical robes of a Buddhist priest — as he walked into the tent from behind the prison spokesperson.</p>
<p>Once the prison guy stepped away, I stepped to the podium, introduced myself, pointed out Bill Pelke and SueZann Bosler — two murder victim family members who were there to protest, and then I introduced Kobutsu. And Kobutsu went to town–he was great, proclaiming that we were all murderers, that we all had blood on our hands, that he had been threatened by the prison authorities, and more. I am sure he will provide his perspective in due course. Then he took questions, and after a few minutes, the victims families van pulled into the media parking lot. Instead of waiting for them to come to the tent, the media all went and ambushed them in the media parking lot. We followed them, but I couldn’t hear very much of anything that was said. It was both unfortunate, and comical, however, that the prison media people allowed the victims families to be accosted in that way instead of insisting that the media use the podium that had been set up…..</p>
<p>After all of that was over, a group of us drove into Gainesville for dinner at a Thai restaurant run by Buddhists who Kobutsu knows. Apparently they prepared the last meal for Dan Houser, another Buddhist executed in Florida not too long ago. They made a special meal for Kobutsu. I had the buffet–it was delicious.</p>
<p>At dinner, Kobutsu told us that he could definitely hear our noise from within the prison, and that it had an impact on him and the prisoners, and also the witnesses and prison people. He encouraged more of the same at future extermination protests.</p>
<p>And from there, SueZann, Carolyn and I had another four hours to drive…..</p>
<p>Protests were also held in Clearwater (Tampa Bay), Orlando, Tallahassee, Gainesville, Jacksonville and Ft. Lauderdale. Here are some of those reports:</p>
<p>Clearwater:</p>
<p>At the vigil on Ulmerton Road, about twenty people held signs, read passages from an essay by Garry Wills and the Psalms, sang “Amazing Grace,” and chanted a Buddhist peace chant as thousands drove by. Four TV stations, a radio station and a newspaper were at our vigil as well. This vigil was quieter, but who knows how many we also touched? And how many lives all our actions for peace and justice touch?</p>
<p>FT. Lauderdale</p>
<p>There were 8 of us at the demonstration Wednesday in Ft. Lauderdale. We wore T-shirts supplied by Bernice that said “Stop the Death Penalty. Execution of Amos King Feb. 26, 2003.” We talked to several passerby and handed out literature. The first, someone named Jim, was first talking for the Death Penalty but without the usual anger. I replied to his statements. He didn’t seem to have firm convictions of his own. After I said that there were serious questions about Amos King’s innocence Jim said, “They are executing an innocent man!” Jim asked if he could join us. He picked up a sign, put on a T-shirt and joined the protest.</p>
<p>Jacksonville</p>
<p>There were ten JCFAM folks who participated in the Amos King vigil on the sidewalk in front of the Duval County Court House, 5 to 6:15 PM on Wednesday, Feb 26. We all carried posters to be read by the workers leaving the Court House and the vehicular traffic on Bay Street. At 6 PM, the group circled for a candle-light prayer and reflection time at which Amos King and all the victims of violent crimes were remembered. The tower bells of the Episcopal Cathedral, Immaculate Conception and Presbyterian churches in downtown Jacksonville were rung at 6 PM as part of the vigil. It turned cold and very windy during our time there. A number of greetings of affirmation were received from passers-by and two pedestrians joined the prayer/reflection circle. The press and TV stations were notified but no one showed for coverage.</p>
<p>ABE BONOWITZ is director of <a href="http://www.fadp.org/index.html" type="external">Floridians for Alternatives to the Death Penalty</a>. He can be reached at: <a href="mailto:[email protected]" type="external">[email protected]</a></p>
<p>&#160;</p> | 599,111 |
<p>Margaret Allen used to pray about becoming a missionary in Africa. Her prayers were answered but her mission field was in Richmond, Va., among people living in the inner city. In 1986 she began service as a community missionary of the Richmond Baptist Association which has a long history of operating mission centers. Next month she retires after 25 years as a missionary.</p>
<p />
<p>As a community missionary in Richmond, she also is under appointment of the Southern Baptist Convention’s North American Mission Board. She recalls the time she told a fellow church member that she was going to Georgia to be appointed a home missionary of the SBC. The friend told her that she used to work for a white woman who told her that there would never be a black home missionary and the friend added, “I wish she were alive to know about you.”</p>
<p>“I have enjoyed being a NAMB missionary,” says Margaret.&#160; “I have spoken in many churches and met many people along the way and have been blessed. The hospitality has been great. I have come to realize that everybody everywhere has hands to use to bring God’s Kingdom to earth.”</p>
<p>Reaching retirement, she remains amazed and grateful. “I sometimes think, ‘God, you are something the way you work in history. You have put me in places I never thought I would be and put me with people with whom I would never have thought I would have known.’</p>
<p>“It is amazing to have come from a little farm girl to work in missions and to think how God has used me to help so many people. It is not me. It is God. It is the work of the Lord. He put me here to work.”</p>
<p />
<p>Margaret Maxine Jefferson grew up as one of six children on a farm near Townsville some 20 miles away from Henderson, N.C. It was hard work but it taught her many lessons and developed certain gifts which she identifies as “perseverance, patience and encouragement.”&#160;</p>
<p>Life on the farm also convinced her that she “was not going to be a farmer or a farmer’s wife.” “I was dreaming beyond the farm.” She once thought of entering the Air Force but her parents said, “No.”</p>
<p>Through the help of her parents and a work study program, she followed her older sisters and enrolled at North Carolina Central University at Durham. She credits her mother as a great encourager. Today all the Jefferson children can look back upon their accomplishments.&#160;</p>
<p>Margaret enjoys her visits with her parents and appreciates the country because “it is so peaceful and slow.” It is a great contrast to the inner city neighborhoods where she has devoted her working life.</p>
<p>After college, she lived in New York City, where she worked at Columbia University’s Harlem Hospital as a therapeutic nursery teacher in child psychology. She worked under an accomplished African-American woman child psychiatrist, Margaret Morgan Lawrence. It was preparation for part of her work as a community missionary.</p>
<p>After she moved to Richmond, Paige Chargois, a Baptist minister, recognized her love of missions and told her about a position with the Richmond Baptist Association. She applied and waited. At one point her husband told her that if she wanted a job she better “start hitting the pavement.” “Don’t say that,” she countered, “you are messing with my faith.” “I always believed this job was for me.” She adds, “If you are called of God I know he will provide you with the means to do it.” She got the position.</p>
<p>She began working at the South Richmond Center when it was located at First Baptist Church on Decatur Street, and she has moved with the center from Bainbridge Street Baptist Church to its present location at St. Paul’s Baptist Church South, which occupies the former Weatherford Memorial Baptist Church’s building. It is a grand edifice built to resemble Monticello. “I used to pass by this beautiful building,” says Margaret, “and never imagined that one day I would be working there.”</p>
<p>Three locations and four executive directors of the association later, Margaret Allen is still on the job. “I am from the old school — I stick with a job!”</p>
<p>She has operated pre-school care for children — a field of special expertise for her — as well as a clothing closet, food pantry, sewing and Bible study group and the Hope Builders program which helps teach practical job skills and spirituality. “Some of the women say that they really appreciated the spiritual part of the program because they could get the job skills other places.” People found that they could confide in the missionary without fear of her judging them.</p>
<p>Today she sees people in stores and they come up to her and say, “You probably don’t remember me.”</p>
<p>“I tell them something important that happened in their life and they exclaim, ‘You really do remember me.’&#160; People and relationships mean a lot to me.”</p>
<p>She is full of success stories of persons whose lives were transformed because of the influences of the Baptist Center. Collectively the success stories are Margaret’s story.</p>
<p>She is quick to credit Baptist women who through Woman’s Missionary Union of Virginia have volunteered and supported the center. Ruth Guill, a WMU stalwart, says that the women love her. “If Margaret says to bring one of something, we bring two. Everybody goes the extra mile for her.”&#160;</p>
<p>What will Margaret do in retirement? The first months will be spent haunting antique shops and searching Ancestry.com. She will spend more time with her family. She will help at Fifth Street Baptist Church where she is a deacon. And then she would like to start a ministry helping women when their prison terms are over.</p>
<p>Margaret Jefferson Allen will continue to be a missionary. It is her life’s story.</p>
<p>Fred Anderson is executive director of the Virginia Baptist Historical Society and the Center for Baptist Heritage and Studies, located on the campus of the University of Richmond. He may be contacted at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" type="external">[email protected]</a> or at P.O. Box 34, University of Richmond, VA 23173.</p> | HERITAGE: A missionary’s story | false | https://baptistnews.com/article/heritageamissionarysstory/ | 3left-center
| HERITAGE: A missionary’s story
<p>Margaret Allen used to pray about becoming a missionary in Africa. Her prayers were answered but her mission field was in Richmond, Va., among people living in the inner city. In 1986 she began service as a community missionary of the Richmond Baptist Association which has a long history of operating mission centers. Next month she retires after 25 years as a missionary.</p>
<p />
<p>As a community missionary in Richmond, she also is under appointment of the Southern Baptist Convention’s North American Mission Board. She recalls the time she told a fellow church member that she was going to Georgia to be appointed a home missionary of the SBC. The friend told her that she used to work for a white woman who told her that there would never be a black home missionary and the friend added, “I wish she were alive to know about you.”</p>
<p>“I have enjoyed being a NAMB missionary,” says Margaret.&#160; “I have spoken in many churches and met many people along the way and have been blessed. The hospitality has been great. I have come to realize that everybody everywhere has hands to use to bring God’s Kingdom to earth.”</p>
<p>Reaching retirement, she remains amazed and grateful. “I sometimes think, ‘God, you are something the way you work in history. You have put me in places I never thought I would be and put me with people with whom I would never have thought I would have known.’</p>
<p>“It is amazing to have come from a little farm girl to work in missions and to think how God has used me to help so many people. It is not me. It is God. It is the work of the Lord. He put me here to work.”</p>
<p />
<p>Margaret Maxine Jefferson grew up as one of six children on a farm near Townsville some 20 miles away from Henderson, N.C. It was hard work but it taught her many lessons and developed certain gifts which she identifies as “perseverance, patience and encouragement.”&#160;</p>
<p>Life on the farm also convinced her that she “was not going to be a farmer or a farmer’s wife.” “I was dreaming beyond the farm.” She once thought of entering the Air Force but her parents said, “No.”</p>
<p>Through the help of her parents and a work study program, she followed her older sisters and enrolled at North Carolina Central University at Durham. She credits her mother as a great encourager. Today all the Jefferson children can look back upon their accomplishments.&#160;</p>
<p>Margaret enjoys her visits with her parents and appreciates the country because “it is so peaceful and slow.” It is a great contrast to the inner city neighborhoods where she has devoted her working life.</p>
<p>After college, she lived in New York City, where she worked at Columbia University’s Harlem Hospital as a therapeutic nursery teacher in child psychology. She worked under an accomplished African-American woman child psychiatrist, Margaret Morgan Lawrence. It was preparation for part of her work as a community missionary.</p>
<p>After she moved to Richmond, Paige Chargois, a Baptist minister, recognized her love of missions and told her about a position with the Richmond Baptist Association. She applied and waited. At one point her husband told her that if she wanted a job she better “start hitting the pavement.” “Don’t say that,” she countered, “you are messing with my faith.” “I always believed this job was for me.” She adds, “If you are called of God I know he will provide you with the means to do it.” She got the position.</p>
<p>She began working at the South Richmond Center when it was located at First Baptist Church on Decatur Street, and she has moved with the center from Bainbridge Street Baptist Church to its present location at St. Paul’s Baptist Church South, which occupies the former Weatherford Memorial Baptist Church’s building. It is a grand edifice built to resemble Monticello. “I used to pass by this beautiful building,” says Margaret, “and never imagined that one day I would be working there.”</p>
<p>Three locations and four executive directors of the association later, Margaret Allen is still on the job. “I am from the old school — I stick with a job!”</p>
<p>She has operated pre-school care for children — a field of special expertise for her — as well as a clothing closet, food pantry, sewing and Bible study group and the Hope Builders program which helps teach practical job skills and spirituality. “Some of the women say that they really appreciated the spiritual part of the program because they could get the job skills other places.” People found that they could confide in the missionary without fear of her judging them.</p>
<p>Today she sees people in stores and they come up to her and say, “You probably don’t remember me.”</p>
<p>“I tell them something important that happened in their life and they exclaim, ‘You really do remember me.’&#160; People and relationships mean a lot to me.”</p>
<p>She is full of success stories of persons whose lives were transformed because of the influences of the Baptist Center. Collectively the success stories are Margaret’s story.</p>
<p>She is quick to credit Baptist women who through Woman’s Missionary Union of Virginia have volunteered and supported the center. Ruth Guill, a WMU stalwart, says that the women love her. “If Margaret says to bring one of something, we bring two. Everybody goes the extra mile for her.”&#160;</p>
<p>What will Margaret do in retirement? The first months will be spent haunting antique shops and searching Ancestry.com. She will spend more time with her family. She will help at Fifth Street Baptist Church where she is a deacon. And then she would like to start a ministry helping women when their prison terms are over.</p>
<p>Margaret Jefferson Allen will continue to be a missionary. It is her life’s story.</p>
<p>Fred Anderson is executive director of the Virginia Baptist Historical Society and the Center for Baptist Heritage and Studies, located on the campus of the University of Richmond. He may be contacted at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" type="external">[email protected]</a> or at P.O. Box 34, University of Richmond, VA 23173.</p> | 599,112 |
|
<p>Tom Williams/ZUMA</p>
<p />
<p>When Donald Trump tried to pin the birther movement on Hillary Clinton during his Friday <a href="" type="internal">announcement</a>, the media jumped in to factcheck, pointing out that he was <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-fix/wp/2015/09/23/republicans-are-blaming-hillary-clinton-for-the-birther-movement-thats-wishful-thinking/" type="external">rewriting history</a>. Late Friday afternoon, the Trump campaign sent a <a href="https://www.donaldjtrump.com/press-releases/clintons-2008-campaign-manager-on-whether-they-promoted-rumors-about-obamas" type="external">press release</a> to reporters in an attempt to back up its claims—but instead it only contradicted the GOP candidate’s entire argument.</p>
<p>Trump’s “evidence” was laughably lackluster. The campaign pointed to a Friday CNN interview with Clinton’s 2008 campaign manager, Patti Solis Doyle, in which she said when a low-level volunteer coordinator with the campaign sent an email advancing the birther conspiracy, the Clinton campaign immediately fired the person. Solis Doyle couldn’t even recall if the person, a volunteer-coordinator, was a paid staffer or a volunteer.</p>
<p>So basically, Clinton fired someone who spread the birther conspiracy, therefore, in Trump’s mind, it’s all Hillary’s fault. Meanwhile, Trump himself spent years claiming the first African-American president was illegitimate and Obama was lying about his place of birth. And once Obama did release his long–form birth certificate in 2011, it still didn’t satisfy Trump. He spent the subsequent years <a href="" type="internal">calling it a fake</a>—making vague suggestions that Obama might have even killed elected officials to hide a cover up. “A lot of people don’t agree with that birth certificate,” Trump said in 2012. “A lot of people do not think it’s authentic.”</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p /> | Donald Trump Can’t Stop Lying About His Birther Past | true | https://motherjones.com/politics/2016/09/donald-trump-cant-stop-lying-about-his-birther-past/ | 2016-09-16 | 4left
| Donald Trump Can’t Stop Lying About His Birther Past
<p>Tom Williams/ZUMA</p>
<p />
<p>When Donald Trump tried to pin the birther movement on Hillary Clinton during his Friday <a href="" type="internal">announcement</a>, the media jumped in to factcheck, pointing out that he was <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/the-fix/wp/2015/09/23/republicans-are-blaming-hillary-clinton-for-the-birther-movement-thats-wishful-thinking/" type="external">rewriting history</a>. Late Friday afternoon, the Trump campaign sent a <a href="https://www.donaldjtrump.com/press-releases/clintons-2008-campaign-manager-on-whether-they-promoted-rumors-about-obamas" type="external">press release</a> to reporters in an attempt to back up its claims—but instead it only contradicted the GOP candidate’s entire argument.</p>
<p>Trump’s “evidence” was laughably lackluster. The campaign pointed to a Friday CNN interview with Clinton’s 2008 campaign manager, Patti Solis Doyle, in which she said when a low-level volunteer coordinator with the campaign sent an email advancing the birther conspiracy, the Clinton campaign immediately fired the person. Solis Doyle couldn’t even recall if the person, a volunteer-coordinator, was a paid staffer or a volunteer.</p>
<p>So basically, Clinton fired someone who spread the birther conspiracy, therefore, in Trump’s mind, it’s all Hillary’s fault. Meanwhile, Trump himself spent years claiming the first African-American president was illegitimate and Obama was lying about his place of birth. And once Obama did release his long–form birth certificate in 2011, it still didn’t satisfy Trump. He spent the subsequent years <a href="" type="internal">calling it a fake</a>—making vague suggestions that Obama might have even killed elected officials to hide a cover up. “A lot of people don’t agree with that birth certificate,” Trump said in 2012. “A lot of people do not think it’s authentic.”</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p /> | 599,113 |
<p>This morning, presidential hopeful Carly Fiorina went were many Republicans fear to go, and even fewer venture in hopes of making strides with new demographics—the set of The View.</p>
<p>I think she may have gained ground. Judging from my own experiences and conversations, I’m comfortable with saying that even conservative women like the idea of a woman running for president. It has nothing to do with post-modern feminism, or promoting candidates based on gender, or secret man-hate—it’s about not feeling the need to act the contrarian over actual progress.</p>
<p>If she did make strides during this interview, she earned them. Out of the gate, the hosts wanted to know about her lack of political experience, and she gave a great answer:</p>
<p>“I understand how the economy works, I understand how the world works, I understand how bureaucracies work, which is what our government’s become, I understand technology, which is kind of important now, and I understand leadership. I think this election’s gonna be about leadership.”</p>
<p>Watch the rest (h/t <a href="https://twitter.com/tszold/status/610847112994127872" type="external">Tom Szold</a>, National Political Director of Carly for America:</p>
<p />
<p />
<p>I’m guilty of having already taken my first mini-break from Republican primary politics, so I haven’t taken a very close look at Fiorina or what her campaign has been pumping out. That being said, I think she did a fantastic job. This interview made me want to learn more about her.</p>
<p>At around the 3:40 mark, the lovely ladies steered the conversation toward the problem of Fox and CNN using polling data to decide which candidates will be allowed to participate in the initial debates. It didn’t feel like a malicious question, but it did put her in a vulnerable position. This would have been a perfect opportunity for Fiorina to knock Fox, or white male presidential candidates, or the polling system in general, but she didn’t do it. Instead, she dropped a “started from the bottom now I’m here” nugget, and looked confident when she said, “I’m kind of used to being underestimated, so I’m sort of assuming I might make it to those first [debates].”</p>
<p>She’s here to work, ladies—just like you.</p>
<p>Of course, they also covered Hillary Clinton’s candidacy (Fiorina believes she’ll be the nominee) and feminism, which could have turned into a complete fiasco—but it didn’t. She ended up making a great point about the politicization of feminism, and gender, and recovered the conversation by stating that “I believe that a feminist is any woman who lives the life she chooses.”</p>
<p>…and then they moved on to abortion and they all started to argue with her, because this is The View and if we don’t argue about abortion, we spontaneously combust.</p>
<p>Interviews like this are important. Whether you enjoy watching The View or not, it’s important to recognize (as I’ve said before, multiple times) that not every piece of messaging and promotion created by a campaign was created for you. If the idea of listening to Whoopi Goldberg talk about politics makes you want to light your hair on fire, this interview was not for you. It was for viewers who may be liberal, but who will also sit up and take notice when this unicorn of a human being—successful Republican businesswoman and presidential candidate—is on the screen.</p>
<p>She made us look good, and hopefully captured the attention of voters she wouldn’t normally have the chance to talk to—which is, of course, the point of all of this.</p> | Carly Fiorina Rocks The View | true | http://legalinsurrection.com/2015/06/carly-fiorina-rocks-the-view/ | 2015-06-16 | 0right
| Carly Fiorina Rocks The View
<p>This morning, presidential hopeful Carly Fiorina went were many Republicans fear to go, and even fewer venture in hopes of making strides with new demographics—the set of The View.</p>
<p>I think she may have gained ground. Judging from my own experiences and conversations, I’m comfortable with saying that even conservative women like the idea of a woman running for president. It has nothing to do with post-modern feminism, or promoting candidates based on gender, or secret man-hate—it’s about not feeling the need to act the contrarian over actual progress.</p>
<p>If she did make strides during this interview, she earned them. Out of the gate, the hosts wanted to know about her lack of political experience, and she gave a great answer:</p>
<p>“I understand how the economy works, I understand how the world works, I understand how bureaucracies work, which is what our government’s become, I understand technology, which is kind of important now, and I understand leadership. I think this election’s gonna be about leadership.”</p>
<p>Watch the rest (h/t <a href="https://twitter.com/tszold/status/610847112994127872" type="external">Tom Szold</a>, National Political Director of Carly for America:</p>
<p />
<p />
<p>I’m guilty of having already taken my first mini-break from Republican primary politics, so I haven’t taken a very close look at Fiorina or what her campaign has been pumping out. That being said, I think she did a fantastic job. This interview made me want to learn more about her.</p>
<p>At around the 3:40 mark, the lovely ladies steered the conversation toward the problem of Fox and CNN using polling data to decide which candidates will be allowed to participate in the initial debates. It didn’t feel like a malicious question, but it did put her in a vulnerable position. This would have been a perfect opportunity for Fiorina to knock Fox, or white male presidential candidates, or the polling system in general, but she didn’t do it. Instead, she dropped a “started from the bottom now I’m here” nugget, and looked confident when she said, “I’m kind of used to being underestimated, so I’m sort of assuming I might make it to those first [debates].”</p>
<p>She’s here to work, ladies—just like you.</p>
<p>Of course, they also covered Hillary Clinton’s candidacy (Fiorina believes she’ll be the nominee) and feminism, which could have turned into a complete fiasco—but it didn’t. She ended up making a great point about the politicization of feminism, and gender, and recovered the conversation by stating that “I believe that a feminist is any woman who lives the life she chooses.”</p>
<p>…and then they moved on to abortion and they all started to argue with her, because this is The View and if we don’t argue about abortion, we spontaneously combust.</p>
<p>Interviews like this are important. Whether you enjoy watching The View or not, it’s important to recognize (as I’ve said before, multiple times) that not every piece of messaging and promotion created by a campaign was created for you. If the idea of listening to Whoopi Goldberg talk about politics makes you want to light your hair on fire, this interview was not for you. It was for viewers who may be liberal, but who will also sit up and take notice when this unicorn of a human being—successful Republican businesswoman and presidential candidate—is on the screen.</p>
<p>She made us look good, and hopefully captured the attention of voters she wouldn’t normally have the chance to talk to—which is, of course, the point of all of this.</p> | 599,114 |
<p>Outraged by the Rev. Joseph Lowery’s benediction at Barack Obama’s inauguration, Glenn Beck is calling a post-racial foul. “Even at the inauguration of a black president, it seems white America is being called racist,” Beck whined after Lowrey suggested that “white will embrace what’s right.”</p>
<p>Beck, renowned conservative imbecile, also uttered the gem “and we’re perfectly fine with brown sticking around.” Thanks, Glenn.</p>
<p>(h/t <a href="http://crooksandliars.com/" type="external">Crooks and Liars</a>)</p>
<p>Youtube:</p>
<p />
<p /> | You Got Obama. What Now? | true | https://truthdig.com/articles/you-got-obama-what-now/ | 2009-01-22 | 4left
| You Got Obama. What Now?
<p>Outraged by the Rev. Joseph Lowery’s benediction at Barack Obama’s inauguration, Glenn Beck is calling a post-racial foul. “Even at the inauguration of a black president, it seems white America is being called racist,” Beck whined after Lowrey suggested that “white will embrace what’s right.”</p>
<p>Beck, renowned conservative imbecile, also uttered the gem “and we’re perfectly fine with brown sticking around.” Thanks, Glenn.</p>
<p>(h/t <a href="http://crooksandliars.com/" type="external">Crooks and Liars</a>)</p>
<p>Youtube:</p>
<p />
<p /> | 599,115 |
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p>SEMINOLE, Okla. — The Oklahoma Highway Patrol says a Colorado woman has been killed and an Oklahoma man was critically injured in a two-vehicle collision in central Oklahoma.</p>
<p>An OHP report says 57-year-old Judy Jonas of Aurora, Colorado, died in the crash Wednesday southeast of Seminole.</p>
<p>The report says Jones was northbound on a Seminole County road when she apparently failed to yield at a stop sign and pulled into the path of a truck that was eastbound on U.S. Highway 270. The driver of the truck was hospitalized in critical condition.</p>
<p>The report says the weather was clear and the road was dry at the time of the crash.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p> | Colorado woman killed in crash in central Oklahoma | false | https://abqjournal.com/960875/colorado-woman-killed-in-crash-in-central-oklahoma.html | 2least
| Colorado woman killed in crash in central Oklahoma
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p>SEMINOLE, Okla. — The Oklahoma Highway Patrol says a Colorado woman has been killed and an Oklahoma man was critically injured in a two-vehicle collision in central Oklahoma.</p>
<p>An OHP report says 57-year-old Judy Jonas of Aurora, Colorado, died in the crash Wednesday southeast of Seminole.</p>
<p>The report says Jones was northbound on a Seminole County road when she apparently failed to yield at a stop sign and pulled into the path of a truck that was eastbound on U.S. Highway 270. The driver of the truck was hospitalized in critical condition.</p>
<p>The report says the weather was clear and the road was dry at the time of the crash.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p> | 599,116 |
|
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>So it makes sense that the New Mexico chapter of the Mutual UFO Network – a group that, according to its website, is dedicated to “resolving the scientific enigma known collectively as unidentified flying objects” – would host its third annual conference here at the V. Sue Cleveland High School.</p>
<p>By Saturday afternoon, nearly 300 people, 50 more than last year, were at the conference to hear from national experts on unidentified flying objects, declassified government files and extraterrestrial life.</p>
<p>Members of the audience, diverse in age and culture, debated one another between sessions and sometimes crowded around the speakers.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Guadalupe Sotelo even grabbed a quick photo with keynote speaker Stanton Friedman, who wore a tie with a solar system pattern. Sotelo said he wanted the shot because Friedman, a physicist whose work includes a documentary titled “UFOs are real,” is famous.</p>
<p>Part of the appeal of attending the conference is being among like-minded individuals, said Natalie Benavidez, a New Mexico resident who went to the conference with her son.</p>
<p>Of course, those attending know their beliefs might make some people laugh, but they’re largely unconcerned about the outside skepticism.</p>
<p>“They’re in denial,” said Benavidez.</p>
<p>During her childhood in California, she spotted what she said was a UFO, a bright, glowing, flashing light outside her window. She has lived in New Mexico for 30 years and has yet to spot another one, but she still believes.</p>
<p>Mariah Taylan, 25, of Albuquerque said that, given the vastness of the universe, she is convinced that UFOs exist. She wears a T-shirt featuring Giorgio Tsoukalos, a TV personality perhaps equally famous for his belief in aliens and his shock of almost vertical-standing hair.</p>
<p>“There’s nothing that’s going to change my mind,” Taylan said. “The fact that I accept it is all that matters to me.”</p>
<p>John Greenewald Jr., of Los Angeles, Calif., talks at the 2016 New Mexico UFO Conference at V. Sue Cleveland High School on Saturday. (Greg Sorber/Journal)</p>
<p>Conference speaker John Greenewald Jr., from California, runs the website <a href="http://theblackvault.com" type="external">theblackvault.com</a>, a collection of declassified government documents, many of which deal with UFOs.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>It’s time consuming, he said, and he works two jobs to support what he calls his “passion project.” He said he is aware that some people might dismiss his work, but he added that people who say “don’t bother me with the facts” are “not my target audience.”</p>
<p>Many of the believers interviewed Saturday said that definitive proof of UFOs would change everything. Benavidez said people would finally realize where technology comes from. And Greenewald said the one-two punch of encountering extraterrestrial life and the governments’ attempts to obfuscate that fact would send society reeling.</p>
<p>Taylan said the discovery would upend everything.</p>
<p>“It questions everything we have known our entire lives,” Taylan said. “Knowing and confirming alien existence would not only rattle religion, but I think it would rattle us to our core as far as our beliefs and everyday activities. It wipes the slate clean for all of us.”</p>
<p />
<p /> | Rio Rancho hosts 3rd annual UFO conference | false | https://abqjournal.com/873271/rio-rancho-hosts-3rd-annual-ufo-conference.html | 2least
| Rio Rancho hosts 3rd annual UFO conference
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>So it makes sense that the New Mexico chapter of the Mutual UFO Network – a group that, according to its website, is dedicated to “resolving the scientific enigma known collectively as unidentified flying objects” – would host its third annual conference here at the V. Sue Cleveland High School.</p>
<p>By Saturday afternoon, nearly 300 people, 50 more than last year, were at the conference to hear from national experts on unidentified flying objects, declassified government files and extraterrestrial life.</p>
<p>Members of the audience, diverse in age and culture, debated one another between sessions and sometimes crowded around the speakers.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Guadalupe Sotelo even grabbed a quick photo with keynote speaker Stanton Friedman, who wore a tie with a solar system pattern. Sotelo said he wanted the shot because Friedman, a physicist whose work includes a documentary titled “UFOs are real,” is famous.</p>
<p>Part of the appeal of attending the conference is being among like-minded individuals, said Natalie Benavidez, a New Mexico resident who went to the conference with her son.</p>
<p>Of course, those attending know their beliefs might make some people laugh, but they’re largely unconcerned about the outside skepticism.</p>
<p>“They’re in denial,” said Benavidez.</p>
<p>During her childhood in California, she spotted what she said was a UFO, a bright, glowing, flashing light outside her window. She has lived in New Mexico for 30 years and has yet to spot another one, but she still believes.</p>
<p>Mariah Taylan, 25, of Albuquerque said that, given the vastness of the universe, she is convinced that UFOs exist. She wears a T-shirt featuring Giorgio Tsoukalos, a TV personality perhaps equally famous for his belief in aliens and his shock of almost vertical-standing hair.</p>
<p>“There’s nothing that’s going to change my mind,” Taylan said. “The fact that I accept it is all that matters to me.”</p>
<p>John Greenewald Jr., of Los Angeles, Calif., talks at the 2016 New Mexico UFO Conference at V. Sue Cleveland High School on Saturday. (Greg Sorber/Journal)</p>
<p>Conference speaker John Greenewald Jr., from California, runs the website <a href="http://theblackvault.com" type="external">theblackvault.com</a>, a collection of declassified government documents, many of which deal with UFOs.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>It’s time consuming, he said, and he works two jobs to support what he calls his “passion project.” He said he is aware that some people might dismiss his work, but he added that people who say “don’t bother me with the facts” are “not my target audience.”</p>
<p>Many of the believers interviewed Saturday said that definitive proof of UFOs would change everything. Benavidez said people would finally realize where technology comes from. And Greenewald said the one-two punch of encountering extraterrestrial life and the governments’ attempts to obfuscate that fact would send society reeling.</p>
<p>Taylan said the discovery would upend everything.</p>
<p>“It questions everything we have known our entire lives,” Taylan said. “Knowing and confirming alien existence would not only rattle religion, but I think it would rattle us to our core as far as our beliefs and everyday activities. It wipes the slate clean for all of us.”</p>
<p />
<p /> | 599,117 |
|
<p>Lexus pulls off an impressive hat trick with its GX 460 sport-utility. Toyota’s upscale division delivers a luxurious, people-pampering conveyance that’s also tough enough to tackle the rockiest remote trail. The trick is how well it manages to meld these seemingly opposing paradigms. The luxury aspect is the easy part. Lexus has been creating cabins that coddle its occupants for years now, and the GX follows a familiar formula. Soft leathers, thick carpeting and high-grade materials combine with precision assembly and conservative-but-handsome design elements to create a quietly comforting ambiance. Lexus’ ladling on of convenience features nears the point of creating overly busy secondary controls, but proper ergonomic placement renders them generally intuitive. If the “standard” level of appointments aren’t posh enough, opt for the Premium designation and you’ll be further pampered with such added in-cabin niceties as upgraded leather upholstery, a handsome, heated wood-trimmed steering wheel, and, for those in the back, heated second-row seats and rear air-conditioning. The high-end package also includes adaptive variable suspension with rear adjustable height control, self-dimming side-view mirrors and adaptive xenon headlights. With Toyota’s 4Runner and Land Cruiser to crib from, the GX proves to be a proficient trail-runner. Hill descent control and hill start assist, dual-range transfer case, locking center diff and adjustable Crawl Control, along with 8.1 inches of ground clearance, give the big SUV ample abilities in the boonies.</p>
<p>The GX is propelled by a 4.6-liter, twin-cam V-8 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that serves in a number of vehicles across the Toyota and Lexus lines. Its 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque are sufficient most of the time, but with 5,100 pounds to motivate the truck can feel a bit strained at higher speeds. Still, properly equipped, the GX can tow up to 6,500 pounds. Fuel economy is about average for V-8-powered luxury SUVs; premium-grade fuel is required. On the open road, the GX lopes along in near-silence with negligible road and wind noise. Through two-lane twisties, the truck handles competently, but its cornering limits are relatively low. As expected, the GX is jam-packed with safety systems and electronic nannies designed to get you and your fellow travelers to your destination without mishap. The GX 460 proves luxury and off-road mettle needn’t be mutually exclusive.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p> | Lexus GX 460 merges luxurious ambience, off-road prowess | false | https://abqjournal.com/225582/lexus-gx-460-merges-luxurious-ambience-off-road-prowess.html | 2013-07-27 | 2least
| Lexus GX 460 merges luxurious ambience, off-road prowess
<p>Lexus pulls off an impressive hat trick with its GX 460 sport-utility. Toyota’s upscale division delivers a luxurious, people-pampering conveyance that’s also tough enough to tackle the rockiest remote trail. The trick is how well it manages to meld these seemingly opposing paradigms. The luxury aspect is the easy part. Lexus has been creating cabins that coddle its occupants for years now, and the GX follows a familiar formula. Soft leathers, thick carpeting and high-grade materials combine with precision assembly and conservative-but-handsome design elements to create a quietly comforting ambiance. Lexus’ ladling on of convenience features nears the point of creating overly busy secondary controls, but proper ergonomic placement renders them generally intuitive. If the “standard” level of appointments aren’t posh enough, opt for the Premium designation and you’ll be further pampered with such added in-cabin niceties as upgraded leather upholstery, a handsome, heated wood-trimmed steering wheel, and, for those in the back, heated second-row seats and rear air-conditioning. The high-end package also includes adaptive variable suspension with rear adjustable height control, self-dimming side-view mirrors and adaptive xenon headlights. With Toyota’s 4Runner and Land Cruiser to crib from, the GX proves to be a proficient trail-runner. Hill descent control and hill start assist, dual-range transfer case, locking center diff and adjustable Crawl Control, along with 8.1 inches of ground clearance, give the big SUV ample abilities in the boonies.</p>
<p>The GX is propelled by a 4.6-liter, twin-cam V-8 paired with a six-speed automatic transmission that serves in a number of vehicles across the Toyota and Lexus lines. Its 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque are sufficient most of the time, but with 5,100 pounds to motivate the truck can feel a bit strained at higher speeds. Still, properly equipped, the GX can tow up to 6,500 pounds. Fuel economy is about average for V-8-powered luxury SUVs; premium-grade fuel is required. On the open road, the GX lopes along in near-silence with negligible road and wind noise. Through two-lane twisties, the truck handles competently, but its cornering limits are relatively low. As expected, the GX is jam-packed with safety systems and electronic nannies designed to get you and your fellow travelers to your destination without mishap. The GX 460 proves luxury and off-road mettle needn’t be mutually exclusive.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p> | 599,118 |
<p>At least 37 people were killed and 42 injured when a suicide bomber struck a cafe in a Shiite neighborhood, officials say.</p>
<p>It was not immediately clear which group carried out the attack. Police said a car bearing explosives was driven to the cafe, which, along with a nearby juice shop, was popular with young people.</p>
<p>Correspondents of the BBC say the failure of the Shiite-led government to address the complaints of Iraq’s Sunni minority is behind the latest increase in violence. Many Sunnis are upset about being excluded from government jobs and upper level posts and about abuses by police.</p>
<p>— Posted by <a href="" type="internal">Alexander Reed Kelly</a>.</p>
<p />
<p>BBC:</p>
<p>Earlier on Sunday, five suicide bombers attacked government buildings in western Anbar province killing two policemen and three officials.</p>
<p>Police told the BBC they suspected Sunni Muslim insurgents of being behind the attack.</p>
<p>In another incident, police said a suicide bomber killed six people in the city of Samarra, north of Baghdad.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-24604558" type="external">Read more</a></p> | More Violence as Bomb Explodes in Baghdad | true | https://truthdig.com/articles/more-violence-as-bomb-explodes-in-baghdad/ | 2013-10-20 | 4left
| More Violence as Bomb Explodes in Baghdad
<p>At least 37 people were killed and 42 injured when a suicide bomber struck a cafe in a Shiite neighborhood, officials say.</p>
<p>It was not immediately clear which group carried out the attack. Police said a car bearing explosives was driven to the cafe, which, along with a nearby juice shop, was popular with young people.</p>
<p>Correspondents of the BBC say the failure of the Shiite-led government to address the complaints of Iraq’s Sunni minority is behind the latest increase in violence. Many Sunnis are upset about being excluded from government jobs and upper level posts and about abuses by police.</p>
<p>— Posted by <a href="" type="internal">Alexander Reed Kelly</a>.</p>
<p />
<p>BBC:</p>
<p>Earlier on Sunday, five suicide bombers attacked government buildings in western Anbar province killing two policemen and three officials.</p>
<p>Police told the BBC they suspected Sunni Muslim insurgents of being behind the attack.</p>
<p>In another incident, police said a suicide bomber killed six people in the city of Samarra, north of Baghdad.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-middle-east-24604558" type="external">Read more</a></p> | 599,119 |
<p />
<p>2017 got off to a strong start on Wall Street as investors defied some predictions that they were waiting to sell until 2016 had ended in order to defer capital gains for an extra year. Instead, market participants seemed ready to ride the end-of-year positive momentum into January. Although major market benchmarks finished below their highest levels of the day, they nevertheless finished higher by between 0.5% and 1%. Some stocks saw even greater gains, and Fitbit (NYSE: FIT), Iridium Communications (NASDAQ: IRDM), and Marathon Petroleum (NYSE: MPC) were among the best performers of the day. Below, we'll look more closely at these stocks to tell you why they did so well.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>Image source: Fitbit.</p>
<p>Fitbit climbed 8% after the maker of wearable fitness trackers announced that its Charge 2 tracker had been added into the wellness program at UnitedHealth Group's(NYSE: UNH) UnitedHealthcare unit. The wellness program, which is made possible by a subsidiary of Qualcomm (NASDAQ: QCOM), coordinates participants' activity levels with the goals and metrics that the wellness program is designed to track. Under the program, employees can earn up to $4 per day in credits if they meet certain goals for activity frequency, intensity, and tenacity. Fitbit notes that the addition of the Charge 2 device makes it even more convenient for participants to track their progress, giving them full access to the company's ecosystem to interact with others. If similar initiatives take place at other employers, then Fitbit could well capitalize on increased fitness awareness to drive future sales gains.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>Iridium Communications soared 10% after launch specialist SpaceX said that it intends to return to an active launch schedule later this month. Iridium has used SpaceX to help it with its Iridium NEXT program, which involves an updated network of satellites intended to help the global communications company offer better quality for its worldwide satellite-connectivity network. After <a href="http://www.fool.com/investing/2016/12/13/spacex-delayed-again.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Iridium made a false start last month Opens a New Window.</a> anticipating a launch schedule that turned out to be incorrectly optimistic, today's news came directly from SpaceX, and so investors are reasonably certain that the next launch date will happen as planned as long as other factors work out well for the company. Given the extent to which Iridium's future relies on a successful NEXT deployment, it's critical that SpaceX not encounter more difficulties ahead.</p>
<p>Finally, Marathon Petroleum climbed 5%. The gains came after the company had a conference call to discuss strategic actions that the refiner intends to take in order to enhance shareholder value, which came in response to calls from activist investors at Elliott Management to look at possible moves to boost the stock further. In particular, Marathon is looking at faster sales of assets to its MPLX master limited partnership, as well as a possible spinoff or sale of its Speedway gas station and convenience store network. With the energy sector having rebounded sharply, now might be a good time for Marathon Petroleum to look at refocusing its efforts through such strategic moves, and investors hope that the net result will be higher share prices going forward.</p>
<p>10 stocks we like better than Marathon Petroleum When investing geniuses David and Tom Gardner have a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the newsletter they have run for over a decade, Motley Fool Stock Advisor, has tripled the market.*</p>
<p>David and Tom just revealed what they believe are the <a href="http://infotron.fool.com/infotrack/click?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fool.com%2Fmms%2Fmark%2Fe-foolcom-sa-bbn-dyn%3Faid%3D8867%26source%3Disaeditxt0010449%26ftm_cam%3Dsa-bbn-evergreen%26ftm_pit%3D6312%26ftm_veh%3Dbbn_article_pitch&amp;impression=480737a4-e41c-4eb2-8291-7eb40884be41&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">10 best stocks Opens a New Window.</a> for investors to buy right now... and Marathon Petroleum wasn't one of them! That's right -- they think these 10 stocks are even better buys.</p>
<p><a href="http://infotron.fool.com/infotrack/click?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fool.com%2Fmms%2Fmark%2Fe-foolcom-sa-bbn-dyn%3Faid%3D8867%26source%3Disaeditxt0010449%26ftm_cam%3Dsa-bbn-evergreen%26ftm_pit%3D6312%26ftm_veh%3Dbbn_article_pitch&amp;impression=480737a4-e41c-4eb2-8291-7eb40884be41&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Click here Opens a New Window.</a> to learn about these picks!</p>
<p>*Stock Advisor returns as of Nov. 7, 2016</p>
<p><a href="http://my.fool.com/profile/TMFGalagan/info.aspx" type="external">Dan Caplinger Opens a New Window.</a> has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Fitbit and Qualcomm. The Motley Fool recommends Iridium Communications and UnitedHealth Group. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/Legal/fool-disclosure-policy.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p> | Why Fitbit, Iridium Communications, and Marathon Petroleum Jumped Today | true | http://foxbusiness.com/markets/2017/01/03/why-fitbit-iridium-communications-and-marathon-petroleum-jumped-today.html | 2017-01-03 | 0right
| Why Fitbit, Iridium Communications, and Marathon Petroleum Jumped Today
<p />
<p>2017 got off to a strong start on Wall Street as investors defied some predictions that they were waiting to sell until 2016 had ended in order to defer capital gains for an extra year. Instead, market participants seemed ready to ride the end-of-year positive momentum into January. Although major market benchmarks finished below their highest levels of the day, they nevertheless finished higher by between 0.5% and 1%. Some stocks saw even greater gains, and Fitbit (NYSE: FIT), Iridium Communications (NASDAQ: IRDM), and Marathon Petroleum (NYSE: MPC) were among the best performers of the day. Below, we'll look more closely at these stocks to tell you why they did so well.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>Image source: Fitbit.</p>
<p>Fitbit climbed 8% after the maker of wearable fitness trackers announced that its Charge 2 tracker had been added into the wellness program at UnitedHealth Group's(NYSE: UNH) UnitedHealthcare unit. The wellness program, which is made possible by a subsidiary of Qualcomm (NASDAQ: QCOM), coordinates participants' activity levels with the goals and metrics that the wellness program is designed to track. Under the program, employees can earn up to $4 per day in credits if they meet certain goals for activity frequency, intensity, and tenacity. Fitbit notes that the addition of the Charge 2 device makes it even more convenient for participants to track their progress, giving them full access to the company's ecosystem to interact with others. If similar initiatives take place at other employers, then Fitbit could well capitalize on increased fitness awareness to drive future sales gains.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>Iridium Communications soared 10% after launch specialist SpaceX said that it intends to return to an active launch schedule later this month. Iridium has used SpaceX to help it with its Iridium NEXT program, which involves an updated network of satellites intended to help the global communications company offer better quality for its worldwide satellite-connectivity network. After <a href="http://www.fool.com/investing/2016/12/13/spacex-delayed-again.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Iridium made a false start last month Opens a New Window.</a> anticipating a launch schedule that turned out to be incorrectly optimistic, today's news came directly from SpaceX, and so investors are reasonably certain that the next launch date will happen as planned as long as other factors work out well for the company. Given the extent to which Iridium's future relies on a successful NEXT deployment, it's critical that SpaceX not encounter more difficulties ahead.</p>
<p>Finally, Marathon Petroleum climbed 5%. The gains came after the company had a conference call to discuss strategic actions that the refiner intends to take in order to enhance shareholder value, which came in response to calls from activist investors at Elliott Management to look at possible moves to boost the stock further. In particular, Marathon is looking at faster sales of assets to its MPLX master limited partnership, as well as a possible spinoff or sale of its Speedway gas station and convenience store network. With the energy sector having rebounded sharply, now might be a good time for Marathon Petroleum to look at refocusing its efforts through such strategic moves, and investors hope that the net result will be higher share prices going forward.</p>
<p>10 stocks we like better than Marathon Petroleum When investing geniuses David and Tom Gardner have a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the newsletter they have run for over a decade, Motley Fool Stock Advisor, has tripled the market.*</p>
<p>David and Tom just revealed what they believe are the <a href="http://infotron.fool.com/infotrack/click?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fool.com%2Fmms%2Fmark%2Fe-foolcom-sa-bbn-dyn%3Faid%3D8867%26source%3Disaeditxt0010449%26ftm_cam%3Dsa-bbn-evergreen%26ftm_pit%3D6312%26ftm_veh%3Dbbn_article_pitch&amp;impression=480737a4-e41c-4eb2-8291-7eb40884be41&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">10 best stocks Opens a New Window.</a> for investors to buy right now... and Marathon Petroleum wasn't one of them! That's right -- they think these 10 stocks are even better buys.</p>
<p><a href="http://infotron.fool.com/infotrack/click?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fool.com%2Fmms%2Fmark%2Fe-foolcom-sa-bbn-dyn%3Faid%3D8867%26source%3Disaeditxt0010449%26ftm_cam%3Dsa-bbn-evergreen%26ftm_pit%3D6312%26ftm_veh%3Dbbn_article_pitch&amp;impression=480737a4-e41c-4eb2-8291-7eb40884be41&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Click here Opens a New Window.</a> to learn about these picks!</p>
<p>*Stock Advisor returns as of Nov. 7, 2016</p>
<p><a href="http://my.fool.com/profile/TMFGalagan/info.aspx" type="external">Dan Caplinger Opens a New Window.</a> has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Fitbit and Qualcomm. The Motley Fool recommends Iridium Communications and UnitedHealth Group. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/Legal/fool-disclosure-policy.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p> | 599,120 |
<p />
<p>A new report circulating on left-leaning internet channels says that a secret indictment has been issued against President Donald Trump. Details surrounding the indictment have yet to be released, but should it actually exist, would likely be related to alleged connections that President Donald Trump has ties to Russia.</p>
<p>The report originated on the <a href="https://patribotics.blog/2017/05/14/exclusive-sealed-indictment-granted-against-donald-trump/" type="external">Patribotics Blog</a> from investigative journalists&#160;Louise Mensch and Claude Taylor, both of whom have previously disclosed accurate reports regarding FISA warrants and other information related to the Trump-Russia investigation, but <a href="http://www.rawstory.com/2017/05/has-a-sealed-indictment-been-issued-against-president-trump/" type="external">have also been accused</a> of filing numerous unsubstantiated reports and conspiracy theories.</p>
<p>According to Mensch and Taylor, intelligence and justice community sources say that a sealed indictment against the President exists, but because of&#160;the U.S. Constitution prosecution cannot move forward until the President is impeached by Congress:</p>
<p>Separate sources with links to the intelligence and justice communities have stated that a sealed indictment has been granted against Donald Trump.</p>
<p>While it is understood that the Supremacy Clause of the Constitution&#160;means that, until Mr. Trump is impeached, he cannot be prosecuted, sources say that the indictment is intended by the FBI and prosecutors in the Justice Department to form the basis of Mr. Trump's impeachment. The indictment is, perhaps uniquely, not intended or expected to be used for prosecution, sources say, because of the&#160;constitutional position of the President.</p>
<p>Mensch sent the following tweet to her 250,000-plus followers:</p>
<p />
<p>In April the statistician who predicted President Trump's November victory warned that not only would the President eventually impeached, but <a href="http://www.shtfplan.com/headline-news/maxine-waters-to-trump-get-ready-for-impeachment_03212017" type="external">that&#160;his own party will turn on him</a>.</p>
<p>The month before, Congresswoman <a href="" type="internal">Maxine Waters</a>, whose bloviating often leaves people confused and unsure of what she actually said, tweeted that <a href="http://www.shtfplan.com/headline-news/maxine-waters-to-trump-get-ready-for-impeachment_03212017" type="external">America should prepare for the impeachment of the President</a>:</p>
<p />
<p>It's no secret that the President's enemies want him out of office, but actionable or prosecutable evidence has yet to be presented to the public.</p>
<p>This may explain why, rather than targeting trump, <a href="http://www.shtfplan.com/headline-news/they-are-taking-out-trumps-lieutenants-deep-state-intelligence-ops-sabotaging-the-white-house_02162017" type="external">the Deep State has been taking out Trump's lieutenants</a> in an attempt to sabotage the new administration.</p>
<p>It is not clear whether&#160;reports of the secret indictment are real or fake, but we expect a follow-up Tweet from the President in due course as this story makes the rounds on social media.</p>
<p>Courtesy of <a href="http://www.shtfplan.com/headline-news/rumors-swirl-intelligence-sources-report-that-a-secret-indictment-has-been-issued-against-president-donald-trump_05142017" type="external">SHTFplan.com</a></p>
<p />
<p /> | Rumors Swirl: Intelligence Sources Report That A Secret Indictment Has Been Issued Against President Donald Trump | true | http://dcclothesline.com/2017/05/15/rumors-swirl-intelligence-sources-report-that-a-secret-indictment-has-been-issued-against-president-donald-trump/ | 2017-05-15 | 0right
| Rumors Swirl: Intelligence Sources Report That A Secret Indictment Has Been Issued Against President Donald Trump
<p />
<p>A new report circulating on left-leaning internet channels says that a secret indictment has been issued against President Donald Trump. Details surrounding the indictment have yet to be released, but should it actually exist, would likely be related to alleged connections that President Donald Trump has ties to Russia.</p>
<p>The report originated on the <a href="https://patribotics.blog/2017/05/14/exclusive-sealed-indictment-granted-against-donald-trump/" type="external">Patribotics Blog</a> from investigative journalists&#160;Louise Mensch and Claude Taylor, both of whom have previously disclosed accurate reports regarding FISA warrants and other information related to the Trump-Russia investigation, but <a href="http://www.rawstory.com/2017/05/has-a-sealed-indictment-been-issued-against-president-trump/" type="external">have also been accused</a> of filing numerous unsubstantiated reports and conspiracy theories.</p>
<p>According to Mensch and Taylor, intelligence and justice community sources say that a sealed indictment against the President exists, but because of&#160;the U.S. Constitution prosecution cannot move forward until the President is impeached by Congress:</p>
<p>Separate sources with links to the intelligence and justice communities have stated that a sealed indictment has been granted against Donald Trump.</p>
<p>While it is understood that the Supremacy Clause of the Constitution&#160;means that, until Mr. Trump is impeached, he cannot be prosecuted, sources say that the indictment is intended by the FBI and prosecutors in the Justice Department to form the basis of Mr. Trump's impeachment. The indictment is, perhaps uniquely, not intended or expected to be used for prosecution, sources say, because of the&#160;constitutional position of the President.</p>
<p>Mensch sent the following tweet to her 250,000-plus followers:</p>
<p />
<p>In April the statistician who predicted President Trump's November victory warned that not only would the President eventually impeached, but <a href="http://www.shtfplan.com/headline-news/maxine-waters-to-trump-get-ready-for-impeachment_03212017" type="external">that&#160;his own party will turn on him</a>.</p>
<p>The month before, Congresswoman <a href="" type="internal">Maxine Waters</a>, whose bloviating often leaves people confused and unsure of what she actually said, tweeted that <a href="http://www.shtfplan.com/headline-news/maxine-waters-to-trump-get-ready-for-impeachment_03212017" type="external">America should prepare for the impeachment of the President</a>:</p>
<p />
<p>It's no secret that the President's enemies want him out of office, but actionable or prosecutable evidence has yet to be presented to the public.</p>
<p>This may explain why, rather than targeting trump, <a href="http://www.shtfplan.com/headline-news/they-are-taking-out-trumps-lieutenants-deep-state-intelligence-ops-sabotaging-the-white-house_02162017" type="external">the Deep State has been taking out Trump's lieutenants</a> in an attempt to sabotage the new administration.</p>
<p>It is not clear whether&#160;reports of the secret indictment are real or fake, but we expect a follow-up Tweet from the President in due course as this story makes the rounds on social media.</p>
<p>Courtesy of <a href="http://www.shtfplan.com/headline-news/rumors-swirl-intelligence-sources-report-that-a-secret-indictment-has-been-issued-against-president-donald-trump_05142017" type="external">SHTFplan.com</a></p>
<p />
<p /> | 599,121 |
<p>INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ The winning numbers in Saturday evening's drawing of the Indiana Lottery's "Hoosier Lotto" game were:</p>
<p>06-10-16-31-32-35</p>
<p>(six, ten, sixteen, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-five)</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $6 million</p>
<p>INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ The winning numbers in Saturday evening's drawing of the Indiana Lottery's "Hoosier Lotto" game were:</p>
<p>06-10-16-31-32-35</p>
<p>(six, ten, sixteen, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-five)</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $6 million</p> | Winning numbers drawn in 'Hoosier Lotto' game | false | https://apnews.com/amp/2fdfeebbfa004799b52d24676a04d526 | 2018-01-14 | 2least
| Winning numbers drawn in 'Hoosier Lotto' game
<p>INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ The winning numbers in Saturday evening's drawing of the Indiana Lottery's "Hoosier Lotto" game were:</p>
<p>06-10-16-31-32-35</p>
<p>(six, ten, sixteen, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-five)</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $6 million</p>
<p>INDIANAPOLIS (AP) _ The winning numbers in Saturday evening's drawing of the Indiana Lottery's "Hoosier Lotto" game were:</p>
<p>06-10-16-31-32-35</p>
<p>(six, ten, sixteen, thirty-one, thirty-two, thirty-five)</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $6 million</p> | 599,122 |
<p>In the course of his lifetime, Nelson Mandela saw his elevation in the West from terrorist to secular sainthood. The world’s media continues churning out headline after headline on his life and legacy, remembering him as one of the exemplary moral figures of the twentieth&#160;century alongside the likes of Gandhi and Martin Luther King.</p>
<p>Mandela is lauded as a hero by everyone from Lindsey Lohan to ex-apartheid apologists like British Prime Minister David Cameron. Yet he wasn’t a pacifist, a tame advocate of nonviolence, an non-ideological figure of singular moral righteousness. He was an&#160; <a href="" type="internal">exemplary revolutionary</a>, fueled by political commitment.</p>
<p>Yet while Mandela was certainly&#160;a “great historical figure,” too many of the obituaries and tributes published so far have been unable to move beyond hagiography or platitude. Far too little critical reflection on his actual political legacy or analysis of the nature and dangers of the Mandela mythologies has been written so far. The image of a progressive “rainbow nation” generally on the right track invoked in many of these pieces bares little relation to the actual social realities of post-apartheid South Africa.</p>
<p>The truth is that in South Africa much of what constituted apartheid still exists, enforced no longer through the laws, decrees and brute force of the state, but by new forms which reproduce themselves through the market. It from this basis that an honest assessment of Mandela’s legacy must begin. But in order to do this, one needs to separate Mandela the myth from the actual Mandela.</p>
<p>There were really two Mandelas. The first is that of the revolutionary, the lawyer, the politician, flaws and all. The second is a sanitized myth: the father of the nation, the global icon beloved by everyone from the purveyors of global humanitarian platitudes to even the erstwhile enemies of the African National Congress. This Mandela is removed of his humanity and touted as an abstract signifier of moral righteousness.</p>
<p>The first Mandela was willing, along with tens of thousands of others, to lay down his life in the struggle against a racist system. He was a lifelong anti-imperialist who never hesitated to stand up to the US on matters of foreign policy, and never ceased in his solidarity with the Palestinian struggle or with countries like Cuba who stood as allies in the struggle against apartheid.</p>
<p>This Mandela was a brilliant strategist. He was able (alongside others, like Walter <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/people/walter-ulyate-sisulu" type="external">&#160;Sisulu</a>, Oliver Tambo, and&#160; <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/people/anton-muziwakhe-lembede" type="external">Anton Lembede</a>) to transform the ANC into a mass political organization through the&#160; <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/topic/african-national-congress-youth-league-ancyl" type="external">African National Congress Youth League</a>&#160;in the 1940s and 1950s and the defiance campaigns of the 1950s.&#160;After his release from prison, he was able to again pivot the ANC from a liberation movement to a modern political party. Both were remarkable achievements. And, of course, he served as the moral icon of the anti-apartheid movement, a bearer of remarkable symbolic power — power that was later co-opted by the very people and institutions he fought against.</p>
<p>Mandela is often invoked in the international discourse of rights and leadership as a wholesome leader. His actual political history, which ranges from his early anti-communist black nationalism to his later embrace of non-racialism and more radical vision of nationalism, as well as his stint in <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/topic/south-african-communist-party-sacp" type="external">&#160;the South African Communist Party (SACP)</a>, goes unremarked. This includes his early political views on the necessity of nationalization (something he only dropped in the early 1990s), his harsh critique of racial injustice during apartheid, and his essentially revolutionary politics.</p>
<p>Take this expression of his politics from around 1960:</p>
<p>I am attracted by the idea of a classless society, an attraction which springs in part from Marxist reading and, in part, from my admiration of the structure and organization of early African societies in this country. The land, then the main means of production, belonged to the tribe. There were no rich or poor&#160;and there was no exploitation.</p>
<p>Or this denunciation of nonviolence, made in the context of the adoption of the armed struggle by the ANC in 1961:</p>
<p>There are many people who feel that it is useless and futile to continue talking about peace and non-violence against a government whose only reply is savage attacks on an unarmed and defenceless people.</p>
<p>Mandela was never the benevolent grandfather presented in his post-apartheid representations. But the Mandela most know is the second Mandela, the Mandela of reconciliation, the man who pulled South Africa from the brink of civil war and entered into a compromise with the Nationalist Party that resulted in the National Unity government after the ANC’s victory in the country’s first democratic elections in 1994. It is the Mandela represented in post-apartheid sentimentality in films like&#160;Invictus, clad in the South African rugby team captain’s jersey at the Rugby World Cup Final, proclaiming that whites have a place in the new South Africa. (In the more recent&#160;Long Walk to Freedom, he is portrayed as saving South Africa from the radicalism of his comrades.)</p>
<p>He is seen as a rare example of “good leadership” in Africa because he voluntarily stepped down from power, leading to the construction of a foolish binary between the South African path of democracy and economic stability (Mandela) and the Zimbabwean path of radical policies and authoritarianism (Mugabe) mentioned in many remembrances in recent days.</p>
<p>In South Africa today, Mandela’s legacy is characterized by one central contradiction. The country is a pluralistic liberal democratic state in which the black majority enjoys full citizenship — a state in which a constitution enshrines both human and socioeconomic rights. Yet South Africa is one of the most starkly unequal societies in the world, with an unemployment rate near 40 percent and an economic system which still traps the majority of black South Africans in poverty or unskilled low wage work.</p>
<p>The formal laws, decrees and regulations which formed apartheid may have been removed, but the free market is almost as effective a mechanism for ensuring that the geography and economic structure of apartheid persists. The structure of the bantustans remains intact in large swathes of the country. These parts of the country remain undeveloped “labor reserves” in which millions of South Africans live under the tyranny of patriarchal customary law enforced by “traditional leaders,” mostly invented by white apartheid authorities as “black tradition.”</p>
<p>Too often, Mandela’s own tenure as president is glossed over as some sort of miracle period in which he was able to unite black and white; his own political successes and failures in his one and only term go unexamined.</p>
<p>Many of these failures can be traced to the neoliberal economic trajectory of the country initiated by the National Party in the 1980s and deepened and entrenched through the Growth Employment and Redistribution (GEAR) policy package introduced in 1996, pushed by the IMF&#160;and World Bank. GEAR saw the introduction of a self-imposed austerity regime justified as necessary in order to pay back debt accumulated by the apartheid state. GEAR was pushed by Western powers, international financial institutions, technocrats within government (many inherited from the previous regime), and a powerful faction of the ANC headed by ex-president Thabo Mbeki and ex-finance minister Trevor Manuel.</p>
<p>It saw the mass privatizations of state-owned companies, the commercialization of the delivery of basic services. In a more general sense, it saw the emergent language of universal citizenship produced by the liberation struggle replaced by a conception of citizenship as tied to one’s own participation in the formal economy. The citizen has been replaced by the “stakeholder.”</p>
<p>The ANC adopted GEAR partially because it was under pressure from international powers and capital and was threatened with exclusion from the World Trade Organization if it pushed for a more radical redistributive agenda; but also because the dominant faction of the ANC believed in the ability of the market unleashed from its apartheid shackles to restructure South African society and bring blacks into the formal economy, thus empowering them.</p>
<p>The ANC, to which Mandela committed his life, has descended into a thick morass of social conservatism, neoliberal technocracy, patronage networks, corruption, and increasingly authoritarian politics. The party lacks any sort of&#160;unifying narrative or future vision for the country. Its image as a progressive force on behalf of the poor and working class remains purely rhetorical — rhetoric that has grown increasingly hollow in the wake of the thirty-four murders of <a href="http://www.inthesetimes.com/working/entry/13694/blame_flies_over_police_massacre_of_34_south_african_miners/" type="external">striking miners</a> committed by police (acting in tandem with senior figures in the ANC, particularly ANC deputy president and ex-union leader Cyril Ramphosa) at Marikana last year.</p>
<p>The ANC’s continued mass support is mostly linked to its use of the pathos of the liberation struggle (in particular, the figure of Mandela), the political deficiencies of the&#160;opposition parties, the dependence on millions of black South Africans on the state for access to the formal economy, and the success of its social grant program, which now reaches over 18 million.</p>
<p>In another narrative, Mandela is identified as the arch-betrayer; the man who sold out black South African’s liberation and the South African path to socialism, who sold out the ideals of the liberation movement to white capitalists and the national party, who saw it more necessary to reconcile and embrace white South Africa rather take on the old elite and their allies.</p>
<p>This narrative is closely tied to the Stalinist influence within the ANC in the form of the concept of the National Democratic Revolution, in which a bourgeois nationalist revolution is seen as the first necessary struggle before the real struggle for socialism can begin. In this narrative, the state is seen as a blunt instrument, socialism can be achieved only if the right people are in charge. But this narrative never engages with both historical lessons of “actually existing socialism” or experiments in “African socialism”; it never deals with the fundamental contradiction between nationalism and socialism.</p>
<p>But both of these narratives fall into the category of analyzing Mandela not as the person he was, but through the lens of the mythology surrounding him — operating in the symbolic rather than&#160;historical realm.</p>
<p>The compromise with the National Party and white capitalists was always the strategy of the ANC. At no point during the armed struggle did the organization&#160;consider&#160;the overthrow of the apartheid state’s military a real possibility. The betrayal narrative spun by much of the Left, operating both from within the congress and without, is too conspiratorial, and reinforces the grand historical agency assigned to Mandela.</p>
<p>Although certainly Mandela’s late night hotel room conversations with South African capitalists like ex-Anglo-American CEO Harry Oppenheimer and trips to Davos had a large role in influencing his gradual embrace of the market, the likes of ex-president Thabo Mbeki and Trevor Manuel, South Africa’s finance minister at the time and architect of GEAR, played a far greater role in the neoliberal trajectory of South Africa than Mandela. It is a mistake to lay the blame completely at Mandela’s feet rather than at the ANC’s inability to politically maneuver during the period of post-apartheid economic negotiations.</p>
<p>As another great South African revolutionary and fellow Robben Island prisoner&#160; <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/people/dr-neville-edward-alexander" type="external">Neville Alexander</a>, who passed way last year, pointed out back in 1999 in an&#160; <a href="http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/mandela/interviews/alexander.html" type="external">interview with PBS</a>:</p>
<p>[The ANC doesn’t] believe .&#160;.&#160;. that we can overthrow the apartheid state. They believe that we’ve got to compel the apartheid ideologues and strategists to come to the negotiation table.” .&#160;.&#160;. He recalled the fact that [Ben Bella], the Algerian leader at the time, had told him when he had been in Algeria, that they should not try to overthrow the apartheid state, because they would not be able to do so. That it would be strategically wasteful of lives, time, [and] energy.</p>
<p>The pernicious&#160;image of Mandela as the savior who descended from Robben Island to liberate South Africa in 1990 persists. It is central to the sentimentality surrounding the ANC — and is key to their hegemony. It is also central to capital’s post-apartheid mythology of South Africa as a post-racial society in which moral worth and social position is no longer measured by race, but by market value or productivity. Mandela had redeemed the nation of all of its past sins, and 1994 signified a total break with the past.</p>
<p>The beatification of the leaders of a liberation struggle to “founding father” status sometimes only becomes apparent with time. It progresses beyond mere distortions of the past to the promotion of a history in which those who took up struggle are robbed both of their actual role and their collective agency. It was&#160; <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/organisations/federation-south-african-trade-unions-fosatu" type="external">the black trade union movement</a>, the hundreds of thousands mobilized through the <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/organisations/united-democratic-front-udf" type="external">United Democratic Front</a>&#160;and its affiliates, and the civic movements who took to the streets, occupied mine shafts and fought the police, who freed Mandela.</p>
<p>This big man history of liberation is closely tied to the ANC and Mandela, demobilizing a highly politicized society and bring the mass movements of the 1980s under the direct control of the ANC leadership. This process was the transformation of the ANC from a liberation movement into a political part in the early 1990s. Part of&#160;the&#160;reason for this was to prevent mass opposition to the economic compromises that the leadership would make with capital and the Nationalist Party. In particular the ANC needed to be able to prevent mass opposition to the economic path they followed in the trade union movement. The result in Franz Fanon’s words was that “the people are expelled from history … and sent back to their caves.” Or more specifically the idea that people should wait passively for the ANC to deliver, once freedom had been attained.</p>
<p>Any transformative left project in South Africa located outside of the ANC needs to be able to tap back into the consciousness and legacy of the mass movements of the 1970s and 80s and be able to challenge the narrative of&#160;messianic liberation tied up to the Mandela mythology.</p>
<p>Respect, mourn, and take inspiration from Mandela. But don’t succumb to the mythology surrounding his legacy. It is too susceptible to becoming impervious of criticism. To allow Mandela the myth to remain intact is to allow for the dynastic and religious forms of nationalism, like the one surrounding&#160; <a href="" type="internal">Gandhi and Nehru in India</a>.</p>
<p>It’s a tale that provides cover for capital and locks the political imagination of South Africa into an understanding of politics in terms of an eternal present, rather than allowing for the urgent duty of reimagining alternatives and engaging once more in the tradition of mass struggle&#160;which freed Mandela in the first place. Mandela shows us that individual courage, collective solidarity and revolutionary commitment can bring about change, but at the same time South Africa’s liberation struggle is far from complete.</p> | The Two Mandelas | true | https://jacobinmag.com/2013/12/the-two-mandelas/ | 2018-10-04 | 4left
| The Two Mandelas
<p>In the course of his lifetime, Nelson Mandela saw his elevation in the West from terrorist to secular sainthood. The world’s media continues churning out headline after headline on his life and legacy, remembering him as one of the exemplary moral figures of the twentieth&#160;century alongside the likes of Gandhi and Martin Luther King.</p>
<p>Mandela is lauded as a hero by everyone from Lindsey Lohan to ex-apartheid apologists like British Prime Minister David Cameron. Yet he wasn’t a pacifist, a tame advocate of nonviolence, an non-ideological figure of singular moral righteousness. He was an&#160; <a href="" type="internal">exemplary revolutionary</a>, fueled by political commitment.</p>
<p>Yet while Mandela was certainly&#160;a “great historical figure,” too many of the obituaries and tributes published so far have been unable to move beyond hagiography or platitude. Far too little critical reflection on his actual political legacy or analysis of the nature and dangers of the Mandela mythologies has been written so far. The image of a progressive “rainbow nation” generally on the right track invoked in many of these pieces bares little relation to the actual social realities of post-apartheid South Africa.</p>
<p>The truth is that in South Africa much of what constituted apartheid still exists, enforced no longer through the laws, decrees and brute force of the state, but by new forms which reproduce themselves through the market. It from this basis that an honest assessment of Mandela’s legacy must begin. But in order to do this, one needs to separate Mandela the myth from the actual Mandela.</p>
<p>There were really two Mandelas. The first is that of the revolutionary, the lawyer, the politician, flaws and all. The second is a sanitized myth: the father of the nation, the global icon beloved by everyone from the purveyors of global humanitarian platitudes to even the erstwhile enemies of the African National Congress. This Mandela is removed of his humanity and touted as an abstract signifier of moral righteousness.</p>
<p>The first Mandela was willing, along with tens of thousands of others, to lay down his life in the struggle against a racist system. He was a lifelong anti-imperialist who never hesitated to stand up to the US on matters of foreign policy, and never ceased in his solidarity with the Palestinian struggle or with countries like Cuba who stood as allies in the struggle against apartheid.</p>
<p>This Mandela was a brilliant strategist. He was able (alongside others, like Walter <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/people/walter-ulyate-sisulu" type="external">&#160;Sisulu</a>, Oliver Tambo, and&#160; <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/people/anton-muziwakhe-lembede" type="external">Anton Lembede</a>) to transform the ANC into a mass political organization through the&#160; <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/topic/african-national-congress-youth-league-ancyl" type="external">African National Congress Youth League</a>&#160;in the 1940s and 1950s and the defiance campaigns of the 1950s.&#160;After his release from prison, he was able to again pivot the ANC from a liberation movement to a modern political party. Both were remarkable achievements. And, of course, he served as the moral icon of the anti-apartheid movement, a bearer of remarkable symbolic power — power that was later co-opted by the very people and institutions he fought against.</p>
<p>Mandela is often invoked in the international discourse of rights and leadership as a wholesome leader. His actual political history, which ranges from his early anti-communist black nationalism to his later embrace of non-racialism and more radical vision of nationalism, as well as his stint in <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/topic/south-african-communist-party-sacp" type="external">&#160;the South African Communist Party (SACP)</a>, goes unremarked. This includes his early political views on the necessity of nationalization (something he only dropped in the early 1990s), his harsh critique of racial injustice during apartheid, and his essentially revolutionary politics.</p>
<p>Take this expression of his politics from around 1960:</p>
<p>I am attracted by the idea of a classless society, an attraction which springs in part from Marxist reading and, in part, from my admiration of the structure and organization of early African societies in this country. The land, then the main means of production, belonged to the tribe. There were no rich or poor&#160;and there was no exploitation.</p>
<p>Or this denunciation of nonviolence, made in the context of the adoption of the armed struggle by the ANC in 1961:</p>
<p>There are many people who feel that it is useless and futile to continue talking about peace and non-violence against a government whose only reply is savage attacks on an unarmed and defenceless people.</p>
<p>Mandela was never the benevolent grandfather presented in his post-apartheid representations. But the Mandela most know is the second Mandela, the Mandela of reconciliation, the man who pulled South Africa from the brink of civil war and entered into a compromise with the Nationalist Party that resulted in the National Unity government after the ANC’s victory in the country’s first democratic elections in 1994. It is the Mandela represented in post-apartheid sentimentality in films like&#160;Invictus, clad in the South African rugby team captain’s jersey at the Rugby World Cup Final, proclaiming that whites have a place in the new South Africa. (In the more recent&#160;Long Walk to Freedom, he is portrayed as saving South Africa from the radicalism of his comrades.)</p>
<p>He is seen as a rare example of “good leadership” in Africa because he voluntarily stepped down from power, leading to the construction of a foolish binary between the South African path of democracy and economic stability (Mandela) and the Zimbabwean path of radical policies and authoritarianism (Mugabe) mentioned in many remembrances in recent days.</p>
<p>In South Africa today, Mandela’s legacy is characterized by one central contradiction. The country is a pluralistic liberal democratic state in which the black majority enjoys full citizenship — a state in which a constitution enshrines both human and socioeconomic rights. Yet South Africa is one of the most starkly unequal societies in the world, with an unemployment rate near 40 percent and an economic system which still traps the majority of black South Africans in poverty or unskilled low wage work.</p>
<p>The formal laws, decrees and regulations which formed apartheid may have been removed, but the free market is almost as effective a mechanism for ensuring that the geography and economic structure of apartheid persists. The structure of the bantustans remains intact in large swathes of the country. These parts of the country remain undeveloped “labor reserves” in which millions of South Africans live under the tyranny of patriarchal customary law enforced by “traditional leaders,” mostly invented by white apartheid authorities as “black tradition.”</p>
<p>Too often, Mandela’s own tenure as president is glossed over as some sort of miracle period in which he was able to unite black and white; his own political successes and failures in his one and only term go unexamined.</p>
<p>Many of these failures can be traced to the neoliberal economic trajectory of the country initiated by the National Party in the 1980s and deepened and entrenched through the Growth Employment and Redistribution (GEAR) policy package introduced in 1996, pushed by the IMF&#160;and World Bank. GEAR saw the introduction of a self-imposed austerity regime justified as necessary in order to pay back debt accumulated by the apartheid state. GEAR was pushed by Western powers, international financial institutions, technocrats within government (many inherited from the previous regime), and a powerful faction of the ANC headed by ex-president Thabo Mbeki and ex-finance minister Trevor Manuel.</p>
<p>It saw the mass privatizations of state-owned companies, the commercialization of the delivery of basic services. In a more general sense, it saw the emergent language of universal citizenship produced by the liberation struggle replaced by a conception of citizenship as tied to one’s own participation in the formal economy. The citizen has been replaced by the “stakeholder.”</p>
<p>The ANC adopted GEAR partially because it was under pressure from international powers and capital and was threatened with exclusion from the World Trade Organization if it pushed for a more radical redistributive agenda; but also because the dominant faction of the ANC believed in the ability of the market unleashed from its apartheid shackles to restructure South African society and bring blacks into the formal economy, thus empowering them.</p>
<p>The ANC, to which Mandela committed his life, has descended into a thick morass of social conservatism, neoliberal technocracy, patronage networks, corruption, and increasingly authoritarian politics. The party lacks any sort of&#160;unifying narrative or future vision for the country. Its image as a progressive force on behalf of the poor and working class remains purely rhetorical — rhetoric that has grown increasingly hollow in the wake of the thirty-four murders of <a href="http://www.inthesetimes.com/working/entry/13694/blame_flies_over_police_massacre_of_34_south_african_miners/" type="external">striking miners</a> committed by police (acting in tandem with senior figures in the ANC, particularly ANC deputy president and ex-union leader Cyril Ramphosa) at Marikana last year.</p>
<p>The ANC’s continued mass support is mostly linked to its use of the pathos of the liberation struggle (in particular, the figure of Mandela), the political deficiencies of the&#160;opposition parties, the dependence on millions of black South Africans on the state for access to the formal economy, and the success of its social grant program, which now reaches over 18 million.</p>
<p>In another narrative, Mandela is identified as the arch-betrayer; the man who sold out black South African’s liberation and the South African path to socialism, who sold out the ideals of the liberation movement to white capitalists and the national party, who saw it more necessary to reconcile and embrace white South Africa rather take on the old elite and their allies.</p>
<p>This narrative is closely tied to the Stalinist influence within the ANC in the form of the concept of the National Democratic Revolution, in which a bourgeois nationalist revolution is seen as the first necessary struggle before the real struggle for socialism can begin. In this narrative, the state is seen as a blunt instrument, socialism can be achieved only if the right people are in charge. But this narrative never engages with both historical lessons of “actually existing socialism” or experiments in “African socialism”; it never deals with the fundamental contradiction between nationalism and socialism.</p>
<p>But both of these narratives fall into the category of analyzing Mandela not as the person he was, but through the lens of the mythology surrounding him — operating in the symbolic rather than&#160;historical realm.</p>
<p>The compromise with the National Party and white capitalists was always the strategy of the ANC. At no point during the armed struggle did the organization&#160;consider&#160;the overthrow of the apartheid state’s military a real possibility. The betrayal narrative spun by much of the Left, operating both from within the congress and without, is too conspiratorial, and reinforces the grand historical agency assigned to Mandela.</p>
<p>Although certainly Mandela’s late night hotel room conversations with South African capitalists like ex-Anglo-American CEO Harry Oppenheimer and trips to Davos had a large role in influencing his gradual embrace of the market, the likes of ex-president Thabo Mbeki and Trevor Manuel, South Africa’s finance minister at the time and architect of GEAR, played a far greater role in the neoliberal trajectory of South Africa than Mandela. It is a mistake to lay the blame completely at Mandela’s feet rather than at the ANC’s inability to politically maneuver during the period of post-apartheid economic negotiations.</p>
<p>As another great South African revolutionary and fellow Robben Island prisoner&#160; <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/people/dr-neville-edward-alexander" type="external">Neville Alexander</a>, who passed way last year, pointed out back in 1999 in an&#160; <a href="http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/mandela/interviews/alexander.html" type="external">interview with PBS</a>:</p>
<p>[The ANC doesn’t] believe .&#160;.&#160;. that we can overthrow the apartheid state. They believe that we’ve got to compel the apartheid ideologues and strategists to come to the negotiation table.” .&#160;.&#160;. He recalled the fact that [Ben Bella], the Algerian leader at the time, had told him when he had been in Algeria, that they should not try to overthrow the apartheid state, because they would not be able to do so. That it would be strategically wasteful of lives, time, [and] energy.</p>
<p>The pernicious&#160;image of Mandela as the savior who descended from Robben Island to liberate South Africa in 1990 persists. It is central to the sentimentality surrounding the ANC — and is key to their hegemony. It is also central to capital’s post-apartheid mythology of South Africa as a post-racial society in which moral worth and social position is no longer measured by race, but by market value or productivity. Mandela had redeemed the nation of all of its past sins, and 1994 signified a total break with the past.</p>
<p>The beatification of the leaders of a liberation struggle to “founding father” status sometimes only becomes apparent with time. It progresses beyond mere distortions of the past to the promotion of a history in which those who took up struggle are robbed both of their actual role and their collective agency. It was&#160; <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/organisations/federation-south-african-trade-unions-fosatu" type="external">the black trade union movement</a>, the hundreds of thousands mobilized through the <a href="http://www.sahistory.org.za/organisations/united-democratic-front-udf" type="external">United Democratic Front</a>&#160;and its affiliates, and the civic movements who took to the streets, occupied mine shafts and fought the police, who freed Mandela.</p>
<p>This big man history of liberation is closely tied to the ANC and Mandela, demobilizing a highly politicized society and bring the mass movements of the 1980s under the direct control of the ANC leadership. This process was the transformation of the ANC from a liberation movement into a political part in the early 1990s. Part of&#160;the&#160;reason for this was to prevent mass opposition to the economic compromises that the leadership would make with capital and the Nationalist Party. In particular the ANC needed to be able to prevent mass opposition to the economic path they followed in the trade union movement. The result in Franz Fanon’s words was that “the people are expelled from history … and sent back to their caves.” Or more specifically the idea that people should wait passively for the ANC to deliver, once freedom had been attained.</p>
<p>Any transformative left project in South Africa located outside of the ANC needs to be able to tap back into the consciousness and legacy of the mass movements of the 1970s and 80s and be able to challenge the narrative of&#160;messianic liberation tied up to the Mandela mythology.</p>
<p>Respect, mourn, and take inspiration from Mandela. But don’t succumb to the mythology surrounding his legacy. It is too susceptible to becoming impervious of criticism. To allow Mandela the myth to remain intact is to allow for the dynastic and religious forms of nationalism, like the one surrounding&#160; <a href="" type="internal">Gandhi and Nehru in India</a>.</p>
<p>It’s a tale that provides cover for capital and locks the political imagination of South Africa into an understanding of politics in terms of an eternal present, rather than allowing for the urgent duty of reimagining alternatives and engaging once more in the tradition of mass struggle&#160;which freed Mandela in the first place. Mandela shows us that individual courage, collective solidarity and revolutionary commitment can bring about change, but at the same time South Africa’s liberation struggle is far from complete.</p> | 599,123 |
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>But as far as Patricia Dickinson Wells is concerned, Billy is alive and well in Albuquerque, at least for one weekend: He is the lead character of the “Billy the Kid” ballet that she largely choreographed.</p>
<p>The 35-minute ballet reworks choreography she originally staged in 2001. Most of it is set to the music that Aaron Copland composed for the ballet “Billy the Kid,” which premiered in Chicago in 1938.</p>
<p>This time around Wells’ ballet is the centerpiece of the Festival Ballet Albuquerque’s dance program, which will be presented Friday, May 11, and Saturday, May 12, at the National Hispanic Cultural Center.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“The ballet addresses Billy’s life from childhood to his death at age 22,” said Wells, who is the company’s artistic director.</p>
<p>Louis Giannini is the adult Billy the Kid and Cole Holderman dances the character of Billy as a child, Wells said.</p>
<p>Giannini said his part is very physical.</p>
<p>“There are a lot of fight scenes, conflict. I’m thrown on the floor, punched and then I get right back up and do a press lift of Courtney,” he said. Courtney Giannini, his wife, portrays Maria, Billy’s love interest.</p>
<p>“And except for the beginning I hardly leave the stage. So from one scene to another it’s pretty challenging,” he said.</p>
<p>Wells said the ballet’s saloon scene is especially fun because it has hurdy-gurdy girls and can-can dancers. Dara Beckley is rechoreographing that scene, which was a stand-alone number in 2001.</p>
<p>“In this scene Billy gets into a fight in the saloon and kills a man and flees,” Beckley said. “I kept the structure of the story in the barroom, with the can-can girls, the saloon girls, a poker game.”</p>
<p>She said she enjoyed seeing a different set of dancers from 11 years ago.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“They kept me on my toes adapting choreography for skills of the different dancers,” Beckley said.</p>
<p>Wells said the ballet has an ensemble of cowboys because there are the gangs the Regulators and Dolan’s Gang. The costumes, she noted, are obviously chaps, gun holsters and Western shirts.</p>
<p>This production has more dancers and has been lengthened over the original one with the addition of two scenes, one of them the Beckley-choreographed bar scene.</p>
<p>Among the other dancers in “Billy the Kid” are Thax von Reither as Pat Garrett, Dominic Guerra as John Tunstall, Frank Cahill as the Blacksmith and Jennifer Boren as Billy’s mother.</p>
<p>“We’ve tried to stay as true to the historical facts as anyone knows them,” Wells said, “which is part of what makes Billy an interesting legend.”</p>
<p>Albuquerque author P.G. Nagle was a consultant on the ballet. Nagle, Wells said, wrote the synopsis and helped on the concept.</p>
<p>The other ballets on the program are “La Llorona,” choreographed by Dominic Guerra, “Equus Ferus,” choreographed by von Reither, “Homestead,” choreographed by Boren, and “Hoedown,” a short piece that opens the show, which Wells choreographed.</p>
<p>“As the audience comes in, western singer/songwriter Jim Jones of Corrales presents preshow entertainment that sets the mood,” Wells said.</p> | We know Billy could handle a gun, but he can hoof it, too | false | https://abqjournal.com/104149/we-know-billy-could-handle-a-gun-but-he-can-hoof-it-too.html | 2012-05-06 | 2least
| We know Billy could handle a gun, but he can hoof it, too
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>But as far as Patricia Dickinson Wells is concerned, Billy is alive and well in Albuquerque, at least for one weekend: He is the lead character of the “Billy the Kid” ballet that she largely choreographed.</p>
<p>The 35-minute ballet reworks choreography she originally staged in 2001. Most of it is set to the music that Aaron Copland composed for the ballet “Billy the Kid,” which premiered in Chicago in 1938.</p>
<p>This time around Wells’ ballet is the centerpiece of the Festival Ballet Albuquerque’s dance program, which will be presented Friday, May 11, and Saturday, May 12, at the National Hispanic Cultural Center.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“The ballet addresses Billy’s life from childhood to his death at age 22,” said Wells, who is the company’s artistic director.</p>
<p>Louis Giannini is the adult Billy the Kid and Cole Holderman dances the character of Billy as a child, Wells said.</p>
<p>Giannini said his part is very physical.</p>
<p>“There are a lot of fight scenes, conflict. I’m thrown on the floor, punched and then I get right back up and do a press lift of Courtney,” he said. Courtney Giannini, his wife, portrays Maria, Billy’s love interest.</p>
<p>“And except for the beginning I hardly leave the stage. So from one scene to another it’s pretty challenging,” he said.</p>
<p>Wells said the ballet’s saloon scene is especially fun because it has hurdy-gurdy girls and can-can dancers. Dara Beckley is rechoreographing that scene, which was a stand-alone number in 2001.</p>
<p>“In this scene Billy gets into a fight in the saloon and kills a man and flees,” Beckley said. “I kept the structure of the story in the barroom, with the can-can girls, the saloon girls, a poker game.”</p>
<p>She said she enjoyed seeing a different set of dancers from 11 years ago.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“They kept me on my toes adapting choreography for skills of the different dancers,” Beckley said.</p>
<p>Wells said the ballet has an ensemble of cowboys because there are the gangs the Regulators and Dolan’s Gang. The costumes, she noted, are obviously chaps, gun holsters and Western shirts.</p>
<p>This production has more dancers and has been lengthened over the original one with the addition of two scenes, one of them the Beckley-choreographed bar scene.</p>
<p>Among the other dancers in “Billy the Kid” are Thax von Reither as Pat Garrett, Dominic Guerra as John Tunstall, Frank Cahill as the Blacksmith and Jennifer Boren as Billy’s mother.</p>
<p>“We’ve tried to stay as true to the historical facts as anyone knows them,” Wells said, “which is part of what makes Billy an interesting legend.”</p>
<p>Albuquerque author P.G. Nagle was a consultant on the ballet. Nagle, Wells said, wrote the synopsis and helped on the concept.</p>
<p>The other ballets on the program are “La Llorona,” choreographed by Dominic Guerra, “Equus Ferus,” choreographed by von Reither, “Homestead,” choreographed by Boren, and “Hoedown,” a short piece that opens the show, which Wells choreographed.</p>
<p>“As the audience comes in, western singer/songwriter Jim Jones of Corrales presents preshow entertainment that sets the mood,” Wells said.</p> | 599,124 |
<p>Bakersfield Californian The Californian received a tip six months ago about Nada Behziz lifting from a New York Times article, but it was overlooked by the paper's managing editor. Logan Molen says "scanned" the 2 1/2-page letter about Behziz but didn't carefully read every word. Behziz was <a href="" type="internal">fired</a> this week this week for plagiarism. &gt; <a href="http://www.bakersfield.com/updates/story/5635845p-5652919c.html" type="external">Price: "It seems to me we only get one mulligan here" (Californian)</a></p> | Californian editor didn't catch plagiarism complaint in April | false | https://poynter.org/news/californian-editor-didnt-catch-plagiarism-complaint-april | 2005-10-21 | 2least
| Californian editor didn't catch plagiarism complaint in April
<p>Bakersfield Californian The Californian received a tip six months ago about Nada Behziz lifting from a New York Times article, but it was overlooked by the paper's managing editor. Logan Molen says "scanned" the 2 1/2-page letter about Behziz but didn't carefully read every word. Behziz was <a href="" type="internal">fired</a> this week this week for plagiarism. &gt; <a href="http://www.bakersfield.com/updates/story/5635845p-5652919c.html" type="external">Price: "It seems to me we only get one mulligan here" (Californian)</a></p> | 599,125 |
<p>Since mid-July, 50 people have died in Ecuador after drinking <a href="" type="external">homemade booze chock-full of toxic methanol</a>.</p>
<p>The stuff looks legitimate. Some is even sold as wine. It's fruit-flavored and sold in paper cartons or plastic bags.</p>
<p>But its all made in a shady factory on the coast that doesn't have a license to sell anything - and certainly not anything you should eat or drink.&#160;</p>
<p>For awhile, the government banned the booze.&#160;</p>
<p>But it turned out that shops just hid the stuff under the counter, unwilling to lose money on products they had already purchased to stock their shelves. When the law was gone, they put it back up again.</p>
<p>More from GlobalPost: <a href="http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/regions/americas/110718/ecaudor-alcohol-deaths-ban-bootleg-liquor" type="external">Ecuador issues three-day ban on alcohol</a></p>
<p>So now the government is trying to buy it back. It's also starting a campaign with signs that read, "Don't become a killer," asking people not to share or sell the banned products.</p>
<p>Part of the problem is that Ecuadoreans are used to drinking homemade alcohol, which is made with no testing, and no standards, and derived from sugarcane.</p>
<p>It's cheaper than the legal stuff. And it gets you really drunk.</p>
<p>But it can also make you go blind, put you in a coma, or end your life entirely.</p>
<p>This happens in a lot of countries where the average person lives day-to-day and can't afford the three or four dollars that regulated, legal alcohol costs.</p>
<p>Especially when they like to drink <a href="http://apps.who.int/ghodata/?theme=GISAH&amp;vid=52140" type="external">a lot</a>.&#160;</p>
<p>So they head to their local pub, where someone's mixed booze in the back with whatever ingredients they have on hand... and hope for the best.&#160; &#160;</p> | Ecuador: don't drink the booze | false | https://pri.org/stories/2011-09-08/ecuador-dont-drink-booze | 2011-09-08 | 3left-center
| Ecuador: don't drink the booze
<p>Since mid-July, 50 people have died in Ecuador after drinking <a href="" type="external">homemade booze chock-full of toxic methanol</a>.</p>
<p>The stuff looks legitimate. Some is even sold as wine. It's fruit-flavored and sold in paper cartons or plastic bags.</p>
<p>But its all made in a shady factory on the coast that doesn't have a license to sell anything - and certainly not anything you should eat or drink.&#160;</p>
<p>For awhile, the government banned the booze.&#160;</p>
<p>But it turned out that shops just hid the stuff under the counter, unwilling to lose money on products they had already purchased to stock their shelves. When the law was gone, they put it back up again.</p>
<p>More from GlobalPost: <a href="http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/regions/americas/110718/ecaudor-alcohol-deaths-ban-bootleg-liquor" type="external">Ecuador issues three-day ban on alcohol</a></p>
<p>So now the government is trying to buy it back. It's also starting a campaign with signs that read, "Don't become a killer," asking people not to share or sell the banned products.</p>
<p>Part of the problem is that Ecuadoreans are used to drinking homemade alcohol, which is made with no testing, and no standards, and derived from sugarcane.</p>
<p>It's cheaper than the legal stuff. And it gets you really drunk.</p>
<p>But it can also make you go blind, put you in a coma, or end your life entirely.</p>
<p>This happens in a lot of countries where the average person lives day-to-day and can't afford the three or four dollars that regulated, legal alcohol costs.</p>
<p>Especially when they like to drink <a href="http://apps.who.int/ghodata/?theme=GISAH&amp;vid=52140" type="external">a lot</a>.&#160;</p>
<p>So they head to their local pub, where someone's mixed booze in the back with whatever ingredients they have on hand... and hope for the best.&#160; &#160;</p> | 599,126 |
<p>What: March was a solid month for stocks related to 3D printing. Even Proto Labs , which only generates about 10% of its revenue from 3D printing activities, rose nearly 15%.</p>
<p>So what: Aside from a press release highlighting that Proto Labs won Frost &amp; Sullivan's 2016 manufacturing leadership award for customer value, March was an otherwise light news month for the company. More broadly, the S&amp;P 500 rose 4.3% and other 3D printing stocks <a href="http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2016/04/05/why-3d-systems-stock-surged-369-in-march.aspx?source=eptfxblnk0000004" type="external">reported better-than-expected earnings Opens a New Window.</a> during the month. It's possible that investor optimism toward stocks in general and the 3D printing sector specifically may have driven Proto Labs higher.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>Image source: Proto Labs.</p>
<p>However, whenever a stock moves higher absent of any apparent development, investors should revisit the underlying fundamentals of the business to see if it can support the stock's rise. Last month, Proto Labs <a href="http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2016/02/04/proto-labs-inc-manufactures-another-record.aspx?source=eptfxblnk0000004" type="external">reported solid fourth-quarter growth Opens a New Window.</a> in what's proven to be a challenging growth environment for many industrial-facing companies. During the quarter, Proto Labs served 12,414 product developers, a 22% increase year over year, which suggests that its rapid manufacturing and 3D printing services are faring well in the marketplace.</p>
<p>Overall, Proto Labs' fourth-quarter revenue rose 32% year over year to $73.8 million, which translated to 15.3% increase in earnings to $0.45 per share. By segment and geography, Proto Labs experienced growth across the board. European sales increased 22.3% year over year to $12.2 million, while sales originating from Japan increased 45.9% to $2.6 million.</p>
<p>Now what: For about 27 times forward earnings, investors get the opportunity to buy a $2 billion company with a long-term goal of reaching $1 billion in annual sales. For reference, Proto Labs generated $264.1 million in revenue during 2015, and the fourth-quarter marked the 14th consecutive quarter it reported record revenue.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>Ultimately, if Proto Labs continues to execute the way it has been and increasing the number of product developers it serves, history may reflect favorably on today's stock price.</p>
<p>The article <a href="http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2016/04/06/why-proto-labs-inc-stock-jumped-nearly-15-in-march.aspx" type="external">Why Proto Labs Inc. Stock Jumped Nearly 15% in March Opens a New Window.</a> originally appeared on Fool.com.</p>
<p><a href="http://my.fool.com/profile/TMFTopDown/info.aspx?source=eptfxblnk0000004" type="external">Steve Heller Opens a New Window.</a> owns shares of Proto Labs. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Proto Labs. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services <a href="http://www.fool.com/shop/newsletters/index.aspx?source=eptfxblnk0000004" type="external">free for 30 days Opens a New Window.</a>. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that <a href="http://wiki.fool.com/Motley?source=eptfxblnk0000004" type="external">considering a diverse range of insights Opens a New Window.</a> makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/Legal/fool-disclosure-policy.aspx?source=eptfxblnk0000004" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p>
<p>Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/help/index.htm?display=about02" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p> | Why Proto Labs Inc. Stock Jumped Nearly 15% in March | true | http://foxbusiness.com/markets/2016/04/06/why-proto-labs-inc-stock-jumped-nearly-15-in-march.html | 2016-04-06 | 0right
| Why Proto Labs Inc. Stock Jumped Nearly 15% in March
<p>What: March was a solid month for stocks related to 3D printing. Even Proto Labs , which only generates about 10% of its revenue from 3D printing activities, rose nearly 15%.</p>
<p>So what: Aside from a press release highlighting that Proto Labs won Frost &amp; Sullivan's 2016 manufacturing leadership award for customer value, March was an otherwise light news month for the company. More broadly, the S&amp;P 500 rose 4.3% and other 3D printing stocks <a href="http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2016/04/05/why-3d-systems-stock-surged-369-in-march.aspx?source=eptfxblnk0000004" type="external">reported better-than-expected earnings Opens a New Window.</a> during the month. It's possible that investor optimism toward stocks in general and the 3D printing sector specifically may have driven Proto Labs higher.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>Image source: Proto Labs.</p>
<p>However, whenever a stock moves higher absent of any apparent development, investors should revisit the underlying fundamentals of the business to see if it can support the stock's rise. Last month, Proto Labs <a href="http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2016/02/04/proto-labs-inc-manufactures-another-record.aspx?source=eptfxblnk0000004" type="external">reported solid fourth-quarter growth Opens a New Window.</a> in what's proven to be a challenging growth environment for many industrial-facing companies. During the quarter, Proto Labs served 12,414 product developers, a 22% increase year over year, which suggests that its rapid manufacturing and 3D printing services are faring well in the marketplace.</p>
<p>Overall, Proto Labs' fourth-quarter revenue rose 32% year over year to $73.8 million, which translated to 15.3% increase in earnings to $0.45 per share. By segment and geography, Proto Labs experienced growth across the board. European sales increased 22.3% year over year to $12.2 million, while sales originating from Japan increased 45.9% to $2.6 million.</p>
<p>Now what: For about 27 times forward earnings, investors get the opportunity to buy a $2 billion company with a long-term goal of reaching $1 billion in annual sales. For reference, Proto Labs generated $264.1 million in revenue during 2015, and the fourth-quarter marked the 14th consecutive quarter it reported record revenue.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>Ultimately, if Proto Labs continues to execute the way it has been and increasing the number of product developers it serves, history may reflect favorably on today's stock price.</p>
<p>The article <a href="http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2016/04/06/why-proto-labs-inc-stock-jumped-nearly-15-in-march.aspx" type="external">Why Proto Labs Inc. Stock Jumped Nearly 15% in March Opens a New Window.</a> originally appeared on Fool.com.</p>
<p><a href="http://my.fool.com/profile/TMFTopDown/info.aspx?source=eptfxblnk0000004" type="external">Steve Heller Opens a New Window.</a> owns shares of Proto Labs. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Proto Labs. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services <a href="http://www.fool.com/shop/newsletters/index.aspx?source=eptfxblnk0000004" type="external">free for 30 days Opens a New Window.</a>. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that <a href="http://wiki.fool.com/Motley?source=eptfxblnk0000004" type="external">considering a diverse range of insights Opens a New Window.</a> makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/Legal/fool-disclosure-policy.aspx?source=eptfxblnk0000004" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p>
<p>Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/help/index.htm?display=about02" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p> | 599,127 |
<p>BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts’ highest court has upheld the practice of allowing crime victims to recommend sentences for defendants.</p>
<p>The Supreme Judicial Court rejected a challenge to the practice on Thursday. The U.S. Supreme Court has prohibited victims from making sentencing recommendations in death penalty cases, but Massachusetts’ high court says that doesn’t extend to non-capital cases.</p>
<p>Attorney Max Bauer had argued that victims should be free to make statements in court about the impact of crimes, but that allowing them to propose a sentence goes too far.</p>
<p>Bauer says someone shouldn’t get a harsh punishment just because the victim is “particularly articulate” or able to tug on the judge’s heartstrings.</p>
<p>The high court said they expect judges to make sentencing decisions “devoid of emotion, prejudice and the relative status” of a victim.</p>
<p>BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts’ highest court has upheld the practice of allowing crime victims to recommend sentences for defendants.</p>
<p>The Supreme Judicial Court rejected a challenge to the practice on Thursday. The U.S. Supreme Court has prohibited victims from making sentencing recommendations in death penalty cases, but Massachusetts’ high court says that doesn’t extend to non-capital cases.</p>
<p>Attorney Max Bauer had argued that victims should be free to make statements in court about the impact of crimes, but that allowing them to propose a sentence goes too far.</p>
<p>Bauer says someone shouldn’t get a harsh punishment just because the victim is “particularly articulate” or able to tug on the judge’s heartstrings.</p>
<p>The high court said they expect judges to make sentencing decisions “devoid of emotion, prejudice and the relative status” of a victim.</p> | Massachusetts court OKs victims’ sentencing recommendations | false | https://apnews.com/264be269abd64e069004fa46971dc82f | 2018-01-18 | 2least
| Massachusetts court OKs victims’ sentencing recommendations
<p>BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts’ highest court has upheld the practice of allowing crime victims to recommend sentences for defendants.</p>
<p>The Supreme Judicial Court rejected a challenge to the practice on Thursday. The U.S. Supreme Court has prohibited victims from making sentencing recommendations in death penalty cases, but Massachusetts’ high court says that doesn’t extend to non-capital cases.</p>
<p>Attorney Max Bauer had argued that victims should be free to make statements in court about the impact of crimes, but that allowing them to propose a sentence goes too far.</p>
<p>Bauer says someone shouldn’t get a harsh punishment just because the victim is “particularly articulate” or able to tug on the judge’s heartstrings.</p>
<p>The high court said they expect judges to make sentencing decisions “devoid of emotion, prejudice and the relative status” of a victim.</p>
<p>BOSTON (AP) — Massachusetts’ highest court has upheld the practice of allowing crime victims to recommend sentences for defendants.</p>
<p>The Supreme Judicial Court rejected a challenge to the practice on Thursday. The U.S. Supreme Court has prohibited victims from making sentencing recommendations in death penalty cases, but Massachusetts’ high court says that doesn’t extend to non-capital cases.</p>
<p>Attorney Max Bauer had argued that victims should be free to make statements in court about the impact of crimes, but that allowing them to propose a sentence goes too far.</p>
<p>Bauer says someone shouldn’t get a harsh punishment just because the victim is “particularly articulate” or able to tug on the judge’s heartstrings.</p>
<p>The high court said they expect judges to make sentencing decisions “devoid of emotion, prejudice and the relative status” of a victim.</p> | 599,128 |
<p>Elephant: &lt;a href="http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-55628152/stock-photo-indian-elephant-female-making-stance-with-leg-and-trunk-up-isolated-on-white-background.html?src=0ubNELGZqsE-ot16tMOFKg-1-1"&gt;pandapaw&lt;/a&gt;/Shutterstock; Building: &lt;a href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:PlannedparenthoodHouston.JPG"&gt;Hourick&lt;/a&gt;/Wikimedia Commons. Photoillustration by &lt;a href="http://www.motherjones.com/authors/matt-connolly"&gt;Matt Connolly&lt;/a&gt;.</p>
<p />
<p>Looking back at the legislative landscape in 2013, you have to give anti-choice lawmakers points for creativity. In South Carolina last year, one male senator managed to introduce six different bills making it harder for women to get abortions. In Arizona, <a href="http://www.azcentral.com/news/politics/articles/20130606arizona-bill-abortion-clinic-oversight-passes-hurdle.html" type="external">a bill</a> about child therapy morphed into a law that opens abortion clinics up to surprise state inspections without a warrant. In Iowa, a rape victim now needs the governor <a href="http://www.newrepublic.com/article/113378/iowa-budget-would-give-governor-power-over-medicaid-abortion-benefits" type="external">to sign off</a> on Medicaid funding for her abortion. And in North Carolina, a new “ <a href="http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/Sessions/2013/Bills/Senate/HTML/S353v5.html" type="external">Motorcycle Safety Act</a>” contains more provisions about abortion than it does about motorcycle safety.</p>
<p>In all, lawmakers in 22 states enacted <a href="http://www.guttmacher.org/media/inthenews/2014/01/02/index.html?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Guttmacher+(New+from+the+Guttmacher+Institute)" type="external">70 new provisions</a>&#160;that curbed reproductive rights—that’s more new abortion restrictions than there were in any year but 2011. Earlier this month, the Guttmacher Institute, a think tank that supports abortion rights, reported that <a href="http://www.guttmacher.org/media/inthenews/2014/01/02/index.html?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Guttmacher+(New+from+the+Guttmacher+Institute)" type="external">more new restrictions</a> have passed in the last three years than in the entire previous decade.</p>
<p />
<p>“[It] was a terrible year for women’s health,” says Gretchen Borchelt, the director of state reproductive health policy for the National Women’s Law Center. Republicans’ <a href="http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/political_commentary/commentary_by_tim_storey/gop_makes_historic_state_legislative_gains_in_2010" type="external">sweeping gains</a> in the 2010 elections gave them control of 25 state legislatures, power that was often used to push through abortion restrictions. “One of the biggest trends we saw was politicians running roughshod over the political process,” Borchelt says. “We saw that in Texas where they kept calling special sessions to ram through an omnibus abortion bill.”</p>
<p>Using data from the <a href="http://www.guttmacher.org/statecenter/updates/archive.html" type="external">Guttmacher Institute</a>, <a href="http://www.billtrack50.com/" type="external">BillTrack50</a>, and <a href="http://openstates.org/" type="external">Open States</a>, Mother Jones analyzed 178&#160;anti-abortion bills <a href="#method" type="external">*</a> proposed in 32 states. In all, more than 330 state lawmakers proposed 476 provisions to restrict women’s access to abortions and reproductive services. Here are some of the key results—including what to expect in 2014. To view the full data, <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/pub?key=0AiK02J6OppqxdFpxbjhhWkxwTzhfZ0M5ZmVUUjhLNXc&amp;gid=29" type="external">click here</a>.</p>
<p>1. A series of incremental attacks. As in previous years, state legislators used an incremental strategy to chip away at abortion rights. The most popular types of anti-abortion bills were bans on coverage in the Affordable Care Act’s <a href="http://www.guttmacher.org/statecenter/spibs/spib_RICA.pdf" type="external">insurance exchanges</a>; bills outlawing <a href="http://www.guttmacher.org/media/nr/2012/05/30/index.html?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Guttmacher+%28New+from+the+Guttmacher+Institute%29" type="external">“sex-selective” abortions</a>; mandatory ultrasound bills; bills imposing technical restrictions with the aim of shuttering abortion clinics (known as TRAP laws); and&#160;bans on abortions from 20 weeks after fertilization.</p>
<p>Lawmakers in five states passed bills barring the Obamacare exchanges from offering plans with abortion coverage, bringing <a href="" type="internal">the total number</a> of states with such bans to 23. Borchelt expects the fight over ACA exchanges to resume this year in states such as West Virginia, where advocates have so far held such legislation at bay.</p>
<p>Bills banning sex-selective abortions—which often propose fines or jail time for doctors who perform abortions when the patient’s decision is motivated by the gender of a fetus—were a fairly new trend, says Borchelt. So far, seven states <a href="http://napawf.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/PRENDAIssueBrief_8.5_Final.pdf" type="external">outlaw</a> sex-selective abortions, with five states—Arizona, Kansas, North Carolina, North Dakota, and Oklahoma— <a href="http://www.guttmacher.org/statecenter/updates/index.html?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Guttmacher+(New+from+the+Guttmacher+Institute)" type="external">enacting those bans</a> after&#160;2010. Civil rights groups, such as the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum, <a href="http://napawf.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/PRENDAIssueBrief_8.5_Final.pdf" type="external">say these bans</a> perpetuate stereotypes about Asian communities and encourage doctors to interrogate women about their reproductive choices based on their race. In May, the American Civil Liberties Union filed a suit in Arizona challenging the ban in the state, which also prohibits race-selective abortions, on the grounds that it is discriminatory.</p>
<p />
<p>2. Anti-abortion all-stars. Federal lawmakers made news last year when an all-male House committee&#160; <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/04/20-week-abortion-bill_n_3385122.html" type="external">convened</a> a hearing on&#160;abortion ( <a href="http://thinkprogress.org/health/2014/01/09/3140711/taxpayer-funding-abortion-hearing/" type="external">twice</a>). Male legislators dominate in proposing anti-abortion bills in the states, too. Of the 330&#160;state lawmakers to sponsor such measures last year, 257—more than 75 percent—were men. Seventy-three&#160;were women. (According to the National Conference of State Legislators, about 75 percent of <a href="http://www.ncsl.org/legislators-staff/legislators/womens-legislative-network/women-in-state-legislatures-for-2013.aspx" type="external">state lawmakers in 2013</a> were male.) About 1 in every 25 female legislators, and 1 in every 20 male legislators, sponsored an anti-abortion bill. The vast majority of the sponsors, 310 in all, were Republicans; 20&#160;were Democrats.</p>
<p>In 2013, about 1 in 4 state legislators who sponsored an abortion-related bill—92 lawmakers altogether—sponsored more than one. South Carolina state Sen. Lee Bright, with six bills, sponsored more anti-abortion legislation in 2013 than any other lawmaker in the country—”so many that it’s hard to remember them all,” Bright says. His proposals include <a href="http://www.billtrack50.com/BillDetail/289909" type="external">various</a> <a href="http://www.billtrack50.com/BillDetail/383989" type="external">fetal personhood bills</a>, and a bill banning abortions if the provider <a href="http://www.billtrack50.com/BillDetail/410489" type="external">can detect a heartbeat</a>.</p>
<p>“We would like to see abortion nonexistent in the US,” Bright, who is challenging Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham in the primary this year, tells Mother Jones.</p>
<p>Close on Bright’s heels was Alison Littell McHose, a Republican assemblywoman in New Jersey who sponsored five measures in 2013. In addition to her anti-abortion activism, McHose has <a href="http://blog.tenthamendmentcenter.com/2011/07/add-obamacare-to-nullification-movement/#.UtedY2RDuKu" type="external">raised at least $22,126</a> in an online campaign to nullify the Affordable Care Act in New Jersey.</p>
<p>3. What 2014 holds. Borchelt predicts many of the types of bills that were popular in 2013 will resurface in 2014. Although federal courts have consistently struck down bans on abortion at 20 weeks from fertilization, she says, that probably won’t stop lawmakers from continuing to introduce them. “They are eternally optimistic that they can change the Constitution on this issue,” she says.</p>
<p>Although a few more states may see attempts to ban abortion coverage from state exchanges, Borchelt notes reproductive rights advocates are more fearful of a rash of bills to ban private insurers from offering abortion coverage in 2014. Only a handful of states considered such measures in in 2013.</p>
<p>What’s not clear is whether abortion opponents will be as active in 2014 as they were last year. Election years tend to cut the legislative calendar short. “And in theory, lawmakers don’t spend as much time as on what we would deem controversial in election years,” says Borchelt. “So we shouldn’t see as much action in 2014…But we were surprised by what we saw in 2012.”</p>
<p><a type="external" href="">*The data is not a comprehensive set of every anti-abortion bill introduced in 2013; it includes anti-abortion bills introduced in more than one state. Each bill was categorized based on one provision restricting access to an abortion.&#160;Many bills contained multiple abortion-related provisions.</a></p>
<p>Additional data reporting by <a href="" type="internal">Hannah Levintova</a>, <a href="" type="internal">Nina Liss-Schultz</a>, and <a href="" type="internal">Brett Brownwell</a>.</p>
<p /> | Meet 330 Lawmakers Who Made 2013 “A Terrible Year for Women’s Health” | true | https://motherjones.com/politics/2014/01/state-legislators-sponsored-abortion-restriction-2014/ | 2014-01-27 | 4left
| Meet 330 Lawmakers Who Made 2013 “A Terrible Year for Women’s Health”
<p>Elephant: &lt;a href="http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-55628152/stock-photo-indian-elephant-female-making-stance-with-leg-and-trunk-up-isolated-on-white-background.html?src=0ubNELGZqsE-ot16tMOFKg-1-1"&gt;pandapaw&lt;/a&gt;/Shutterstock; Building: &lt;a href="http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:PlannedparenthoodHouston.JPG"&gt;Hourick&lt;/a&gt;/Wikimedia Commons. Photoillustration by &lt;a href="http://www.motherjones.com/authors/matt-connolly"&gt;Matt Connolly&lt;/a&gt;.</p>
<p />
<p>Looking back at the legislative landscape in 2013, you have to give anti-choice lawmakers points for creativity. In South Carolina last year, one male senator managed to introduce six different bills making it harder for women to get abortions. In Arizona, <a href="http://www.azcentral.com/news/politics/articles/20130606arizona-bill-abortion-clinic-oversight-passes-hurdle.html" type="external">a bill</a> about child therapy morphed into a law that opens abortion clinics up to surprise state inspections without a warrant. In Iowa, a rape victim now needs the governor <a href="http://www.newrepublic.com/article/113378/iowa-budget-would-give-governor-power-over-medicaid-abortion-benefits" type="external">to sign off</a> on Medicaid funding for her abortion. And in North Carolina, a new “ <a href="http://www.ncga.state.nc.us/Sessions/2013/Bills/Senate/HTML/S353v5.html" type="external">Motorcycle Safety Act</a>” contains more provisions about abortion than it does about motorcycle safety.</p>
<p>In all, lawmakers in 22 states enacted <a href="http://www.guttmacher.org/media/inthenews/2014/01/02/index.html?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Guttmacher+(New+from+the+Guttmacher+Institute)" type="external">70 new provisions</a>&#160;that curbed reproductive rights—that’s more new abortion restrictions than there were in any year but 2011. Earlier this month, the Guttmacher Institute, a think tank that supports abortion rights, reported that <a href="http://www.guttmacher.org/media/inthenews/2014/01/02/index.html?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Guttmacher+(New+from+the+Guttmacher+Institute)" type="external">more new restrictions</a> have passed in the last three years than in the entire previous decade.</p>
<p />
<p>“[It] was a terrible year for women’s health,” says Gretchen Borchelt, the director of state reproductive health policy for the National Women’s Law Center. Republicans’ <a href="http://www.rasmussenreports.com/public_content/political_commentary/commentary_by_tim_storey/gop_makes_historic_state_legislative_gains_in_2010" type="external">sweeping gains</a> in the 2010 elections gave them control of 25 state legislatures, power that was often used to push through abortion restrictions. “One of the biggest trends we saw was politicians running roughshod over the political process,” Borchelt says. “We saw that in Texas where they kept calling special sessions to ram through an omnibus abortion bill.”</p>
<p>Using data from the <a href="http://www.guttmacher.org/statecenter/updates/archive.html" type="external">Guttmacher Institute</a>, <a href="http://www.billtrack50.com/" type="external">BillTrack50</a>, and <a href="http://openstates.org/" type="external">Open States</a>, Mother Jones analyzed 178&#160;anti-abortion bills <a href="#method" type="external">*</a> proposed in 32 states. In all, more than 330 state lawmakers proposed 476 provisions to restrict women’s access to abortions and reproductive services. Here are some of the key results—including what to expect in 2014. To view the full data, <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheet/pub?key=0AiK02J6OppqxdFpxbjhhWkxwTzhfZ0M5ZmVUUjhLNXc&amp;gid=29" type="external">click here</a>.</p>
<p>1. A series of incremental attacks. As in previous years, state legislators used an incremental strategy to chip away at abortion rights. The most popular types of anti-abortion bills were bans on coverage in the Affordable Care Act’s <a href="http://www.guttmacher.org/statecenter/spibs/spib_RICA.pdf" type="external">insurance exchanges</a>; bills outlawing <a href="http://www.guttmacher.org/media/nr/2012/05/30/index.html?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Guttmacher+%28New+from+the+Guttmacher+Institute%29" type="external">“sex-selective” abortions</a>; mandatory ultrasound bills; bills imposing technical restrictions with the aim of shuttering abortion clinics (known as TRAP laws); and&#160;bans on abortions from 20 weeks after fertilization.</p>
<p>Lawmakers in five states passed bills barring the Obamacare exchanges from offering plans with abortion coverage, bringing <a href="" type="internal">the total number</a> of states with such bans to 23. Borchelt expects the fight over ACA exchanges to resume this year in states such as West Virginia, where advocates have so far held such legislation at bay.</p>
<p>Bills banning sex-selective abortions—which often propose fines or jail time for doctors who perform abortions when the patient’s decision is motivated by the gender of a fetus—were a fairly new trend, says Borchelt. So far, seven states <a href="http://napawf.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/PRENDAIssueBrief_8.5_Final.pdf" type="external">outlaw</a> sex-selective abortions, with five states—Arizona, Kansas, North Carolina, North Dakota, and Oklahoma— <a href="http://www.guttmacher.org/statecenter/updates/index.html?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Guttmacher+(New+from+the+Guttmacher+Institute)" type="external">enacting those bans</a> after&#160;2010. Civil rights groups, such as the National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum, <a href="http://napawf.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/PRENDAIssueBrief_8.5_Final.pdf" type="external">say these bans</a> perpetuate stereotypes about Asian communities and encourage doctors to interrogate women about their reproductive choices based on their race. In May, the American Civil Liberties Union filed a suit in Arizona challenging the ban in the state, which also prohibits race-selective abortions, on the grounds that it is discriminatory.</p>
<p />
<p>2. Anti-abortion all-stars. Federal lawmakers made news last year when an all-male House committee&#160; <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/06/04/20-week-abortion-bill_n_3385122.html" type="external">convened</a> a hearing on&#160;abortion ( <a href="http://thinkprogress.org/health/2014/01/09/3140711/taxpayer-funding-abortion-hearing/" type="external">twice</a>). Male legislators dominate in proposing anti-abortion bills in the states, too. Of the 330&#160;state lawmakers to sponsor such measures last year, 257—more than 75 percent—were men. Seventy-three&#160;were women. (According to the National Conference of State Legislators, about 75 percent of <a href="http://www.ncsl.org/legislators-staff/legislators/womens-legislative-network/women-in-state-legislatures-for-2013.aspx" type="external">state lawmakers in 2013</a> were male.) About 1 in every 25 female legislators, and 1 in every 20 male legislators, sponsored an anti-abortion bill. The vast majority of the sponsors, 310 in all, were Republicans; 20&#160;were Democrats.</p>
<p>In 2013, about 1 in 4 state legislators who sponsored an abortion-related bill—92 lawmakers altogether—sponsored more than one. South Carolina state Sen. Lee Bright, with six bills, sponsored more anti-abortion legislation in 2013 than any other lawmaker in the country—”so many that it’s hard to remember them all,” Bright says. His proposals include <a href="http://www.billtrack50.com/BillDetail/289909" type="external">various</a> <a href="http://www.billtrack50.com/BillDetail/383989" type="external">fetal personhood bills</a>, and a bill banning abortions if the provider <a href="http://www.billtrack50.com/BillDetail/410489" type="external">can detect a heartbeat</a>.</p>
<p>“We would like to see abortion nonexistent in the US,” Bright, who is challenging Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham in the primary this year, tells Mother Jones.</p>
<p>Close on Bright’s heels was Alison Littell McHose, a Republican assemblywoman in New Jersey who sponsored five measures in 2013. In addition to her anti-abortion activism, McHose has <a href="http://blog.tenthamendmentcenter.com/2011/07/add-obamacare-to-nullification-movement/#.UtedY2RDuKu" type="external">raised at least $22,126</a> in an online campaign to nullify the Affordable Care Act in New Jersey.</p>
<p>3. What 2014 holds. Borchelt predicts many of the types of bills that were popular in 2013 will resurface in 2014. Although federal courts have consistently struck down bans on abortion at 20 weeks from fertilization, she says, that probably won’t stop lawmakers from continuing to introduce them. “They are eternally optimistic that they can change the Constitution on this issue,” she says.</p>
<p>Although a few more states may see attempts to ban abortion coverage from state exchanges, Borchelt notes reproductive rights advocates are more fearful of a rash of bills to ban private insurers from offering abortion coverage in 2014. Only a handful of states considered such measures in in 2013.</p>
<p>What’s not clear is whether abortion opponents will be as active in 2014 as they were last year. Election years tend to cut the legislative calendar short. “And in theory, lawmakers don’t spend as much time as on what we would deem controversial in election years,” says Borchelt. “So we shouldn’t see as much action in 2014…But we were surprised by what we saw in 2012.”</p>
<p><a type="external" href="">*The data is not a comprehensive set of every anti-abortion bill introduced in 2013; it includes anti-abortion bills introduced in more than one state. Each bill was categorized based on one provision restricting access to an abortion.&#160;Many bills contained multiple abortion-related provisions.</a></p>
<p>Additional data reporting by <a href="" type="internal">Hannah Levintova</a>, <a href="" type="internal">Nina Liss-Schultz</a>, and <a href="" type="internal">Brett Brownwell</a>.</p>
<p /> | 599,129 |
<p>From the Hill:</p>
<p>The Obama administration’s strategy for securing congressional support for its Iran policy “has collapsed,” a GOP senator charged Tuesday.</p>
<p>Sen. Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) offered harsh words for the White House, which he said should support tougher Senate sanctions meant to curtail Iran’s drive for nuclear weapons.</p>
<p>“Not one senator stood with the administration” last week when the upper chamber unanimously approved a plan to sanction firms and governments that do business with the Central Bank of Iran, Kirk said.</p>
<p>He said the 100-0 vote “sent a message” that senators feel the administration is not moving aggressively enough to thwart the country’s nuclear ambitions.</p>
<p><a href="http://thehill.com/blogs/defcon-hill/policy-and-strategy/197521-lawmaker-support-for-obama-iran-policy-has-collapsed" type="external">(Read Full Article)</a> <a href="" type="internal" /></p> | Obama Iran policy ‘has collapsed’ – GOP Senator | false | http://capoliticalreview.com/trending/gop-senator-says-support-for-obama-iran-policy-has-collapsed/ | 2011-12-07 | 1right-center
| Obama Iran policy ‘has collapsed’ – GOP Senator
<p>From the Hill:</p>
<p>The Obama administration’s strategy for securing congressional support for its Iran policy “has collapsed,” a GOP senator charged Tuesday.</p>
<p>Sen. Mark Kirk (R-Ill.) offered harsh words for the White House, which he said should support tougher Senate sanctions meant to curtail Iran’s drive for nuclear weapons.</p>
<p>“Not one senator stood with the administration” last week when the upper chamber unanimously approved a plan to sanction firms and governments that do business with the Central Bank of Iran, Kirk said.</p>
<p>He said the 100-0 vote “sent a message” that senators feel the administration is not moving aggressively enough to thwart the country’s nuclear ambitions.</p>
<p><a href="http://thehill.com/blogs/defcon-hill/policy-and-strategy/197521-lawmaker-support-for-obama-iran-policy-has-collapsed" type="external">(Read Full Article)</a> <a href="" type="internal" /></p> | 599,130 |
<p>NewsdayDennis Duggan says he'll be joining the crowd that doesn't watch news on CBS any longer. He complains that television -- once called a "vast wasteland" -- is now a "dead alley." "Brian Williams is a fresh face on NBC, so I watch him and I still like some of the old hands like Bob Schieffer, who will be a temporary replacement for Dan Rather. But the talk shows are filled with loudmouths and small minds and all weather forecasters ought to be deported and the so-called reality shows ought to be banished."</p> | Duggan: "Tiffany" network has morphed into an old crock | false | https://poynter.org/news/duggan-tiffany-network-has-morphed-old-crock | 2005-03-02 | 2least
| Duggan: "Tiffany" network has morphed into an old crock
<p>NewsdayDennis Duggan says he'll be joining the crowd that doesn't watch news on CBS any longer. He complains that television -- once called a "vast wasteland" -- is now a "dead alley." "Brian Williams is a fresh face on NBC, so I watch him and I still like some of the old hands like Bob Schieffer, who will be a temporary replacement for Dan Rather. But the talk shows are filled with loudmouths and small minds and all weather forecasters ought to be deported and the so-called reality shows ought to be banished."</p> | 599,131 |
<p>Jan 25 (Reuters) - Nath Bio-Genes (I) Ltd:</p>
<p>* SETS ISSUE PRICE OF 455 RUPEES PER SHARE Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage:</p> Our Standards:
<a href="" type="internal">The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.</a>
<p>WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States slapped sanctions on Russian individuals and entities for U.S. election meddling and cyber attacks but put off targeting oligarchs and government officials close to President Vladimir Putin, prompting lawmakers in both parties to say President Donald Trump needs to do much more.</p>
<p>With the United States under pressure to act, the actions announced by the U.S. Treasury Department - targeting 19 individuals and five entities including Russian intelligence services - represented the most significant steps taken against Moscow since Trump assumed office in January 2017.</p>
<p>The United States also joined Britain, Germany and France in demanding that Russia explain a military-grade nerve toxin attack in England on a former Russian double agent, and Trump said “it certainly looks like the Russians were behind” the incident.</p>
<p>But congressional critics called the administration’s action a woefully inadequate retaliation for Russia interference in the 2016 U.S. election and cyber attacks stretching back two years that targeted the U.S. power grid including nuclear facilities.</p>
<p>“The sanctions today are a grievous disappointment and fall far short of what is needed to respond to that attack on our democracy let alone deter Russia’s escalating aggression, which now includes a chemical weapons attack on the soil of our closest ally,” said Adam Schiff, the top Democrat on the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee.</p>
<p>“Today’s action, using authorities provided by Congress, is an important step by the administration. But more must be done,” Republican House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce added.</p>
<p>Trump has faced fierce criticism in the United States for doing too little to punish Russia for the election meddling and other actions, and special counsel Robert Mueller is looking into whether Trump’s campaign colluded with the Russians, an allegation the president denies.</p>
<p>Sixteen of the Russian individuals and entities sanctioned were indicted on Feb. 16 as part of Mueller’s criminal investigation.</p>
<p>“They didn’t hit Putin’s power structure and they didn’t team up with Europe,” Brian O’Toole, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council think tank and a former senior adviser at the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, said of the administration’s actions.</p>
<p>A senior administration official told Reuters that Trump, who campaigned on warmer ties with Putin, has grown exasperated with Russian activity.</p>
<p>In Moscow, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Russia was preparing retaliatory measures, as U.S.-Russian relations plunged again despite Trump’s stated desire for improved ties.</p>
<p>Thursday’s announcement also marked the first time that the U.S. government stated publicly that Russia had attempted to break into the American energy grid, which U.S. security officials have longed warned may be vulnerable to debilitating cyber attacks from hostile adversaries.</p>
<p>The Treasury Department said the sanctions were also meant to counter destructive cyber attacks including the NotPetya attack that cost billions of dollars in damage across Europe, Asia and the United States. The United States and Britain last month blamed Russian military for that attack.</p> FILE PHOTO: U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin discusses the Trump administration's tax reform proposal in the White House briefing room in Washington, U.S, April 26, 2017. REUTERS/Carlos Barria/File photo
<p>Trump has frequently questioned a January 2017 finding by U.S. intelligence agencies that Russia interfered in the 2016 campaign using hacking and propaganda in an effort eventually aimed at tilting the race in Trump’s favor. Russia denies interfering in the election.</p>
<p>But Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin was unequivocal in saying that Thursday’s action by his department “counters Russia’s continuing destabilizing activities, ranging from interference in the 2016 election to conducting destructive cyber-attacks.”</p> ‘GET SMART’
<p>“Putin constantly attacks our friends. So, President Trump, are you going to get smart about the threat Russia poses to the United States and our allies?” Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said.</p>
<p>Schiff said that only two new senior Russian officials with ties to military intelligence were included in Thursday’s action and the Obama administration had already imposed sanctions in December 2016 on the other named Russian intelligence entities and individuals.</p> FILE PHOTO: Voters cast their votes during the U.S. presidential election in Elyria, Ohio, U.S. November 8, 2016. REUTERS/Aaron Josefczyk/File Photo
<p>Trump told reporters during a White House event with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar that “it certainly looks like the Russians were behind” the use of a nerve agent to attack Sergei Skripal, a former Russian double agent in England. Trump called it “something that should never, ever happen, and we’re taking it very seriously, as I think are many others.”</p>
<p>Russian government hackers since at least March 2016 “have also targeted U.S. government entities and multiple U.S. critical infrastructure sectors, including the energy, nuclear, commercial facilities, water, aviation, and critical manufacturing sectors,” a Treasury Department statement said.</p>
<p>A senior administration told reporters on a conference call that Russian actors infiltrated parts of the U.S. energy sector.</p>
<p>“We were able to identify where they were located within those business systems and remove them from those business systems,” the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.</p> Related Coverage
<a href="/article/us-usa-russia-sanctions-whitehouse/white-house-will-remain-tough-on-russia-until-its-behavior-changes-idUSKCN1GR313" type="external">White House: will remain tough on Russia until its behavior changes</a>
<a href="/article/us-usa-russia-sanctions-energygrid/u-s-blames-russia-for-cyber-attacks-on-energy-grid-other-sectors-idUSKCN1GR2G3" type="external">U.S. blames Russia for cyber attacks on energy grid, other sectors</a>
<a href="/article/us-usa-russia-sanctions-prigozhin/russian-businessman-prigozhin-dismisses-new-u-s-sanctions-ria-idUSKCN1GR2G7" type="external">Russian businessman Prigozhin dismisses new U.S. sanctions: RIA</a>
<p>Mnuchin said there would be additional sanctions against Russian government officials and oligarchs “for their destabilizing activities.” Mnuchin did not give a time frame for those sanctions, which he said would sever the individuals’ access to the U.S. financial system.</p>
<p>The new sanctions include Russian intelligence services, the Federal Security Service (FSB) and Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU), and six individuals working on behalf of the GRU.</p>
<p>Thursday’s action blocks all property of those targeted that is subject to U.S. jurisdiction and prohibits American citizens from engaging in transactions with them.</p>
<p>Russian businessman Evgeny Prigozhin, one of those indicted by Mueller and hit with sanctions on Thursday, said in comments cited by RIA news agency that he was not worried.</p>
<p>“I have been sanctioned maybe three or four times - I’m tired of counting, I can’t remember. I don’t have any business in the United States or with Americans. I’m not worried by this. Except that now I will stop going to McDonald’s,” Prigozhin was quoted as saying.</p>
<p>Reporting by Steve Holland and Doina Chiacu; Additional reporting by Dustin Volz, Lesley Wroughton, Warren Strobel and James Oliphant in Washington and Polina Ivanova in Moscow; Editing by Mary Milliken and Will Dunham</p> Our Standards:
<a href="" type="internal">The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.</a>
<p>WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration will maintain tough policies against Russia until Moscow changes its behavior, the White House said on Thursday.</p> White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders takes questions during a daily briefing at the White House in Washington, U.S. March 12, 2018. REUTERS/Leah Millis
<p>“I think you can see from the actions we’ve taken up until this point we’re going to be tough on Russia until they decide to change their behavior,” White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders told a regular briefing after being asked if Russian President Vladimir Putin was “playing” Trump.</p>
<p>Earlier in the day, Washington slapped sanctions on Russian individuals and entities for alleged U.S. election meddling and cyber attacks but put off targeting oligarchs and government officials close to Putin, prompting U.S. lawmakers in both parties to say Trump needs to do much more.</p>
<p>Reporting by Jim Oliphant; Writing by Eric Walsh; Editing by Eric Beech</p> Our Standards:
<a href="" type="internal">The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.</a>
<p>WASHINGTON/OSLO (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump has bashed international efforts to combat climate change and questioned the scientific consensus that global warming is dangerous and driven by human consumption of fossil fuels.</p>
<p>But there is a disconnect between what Trump says at home and what his government does abroad. While attention has been focused on Trump’s rhetoric, State Department envoys, federal agencies, and government scientists remain active participants in international efforts to both research and fight climate change, according to U.S. and foreign representatives involved in those efforts.</p>
<p>“We really don’t detect any change with the Americans,” said one of the officials, Aleksi Härkönen of Finland, who chairs the eight-nation Arctic Council’s key group of senior officials, who are charged with protecting a region warming faster than any other on Earth.</p>
<p>Over the past year, the United States has helped draft the rulebook for implementing the Paris climate accord, signed international memoranda calling for global action to fight climate change, boosted funding for overseas clean energy projects, and contributed to global research on the dangers and causes of the Earth’s warming.</p>
<p>While the United States’ participation in international forums – including the Paris accord and the Arctic Council - has been reported, its continued, broad and constructive support for climate change efforts in these gatherings has not.</p>
<p>This business-as-usual approach has surprised some of America’s foreign partners, along with some of Trump’s allies, who had expected the new administration to match its rhetoric with an obstructionist approach to combating climate change.</p>
<p>“I am concerned that much of our climate policy remains on autopilot,” complained Trump’s former energy adviser Myron Ebell, now a research director at the right-leaning Competitive Enterprise Institute, who said it reflects a failure by the administration to fill key positions and replace staffers who oppose the president’s agenda.</p>
<p>The U.S. efforts abroad to tackle climate change have been counter-balanced by Trump’s aggressive push at home to increase production of the fossil fuels scientists blame for global warming. He has also ordered a wide-ranging rollback of Obama-era climate regulations and appointed a self-described climate skeptic, Scott Pruitt, as the nation’s chief environmental regulator.</p>
<p>And to be sure, none of the U.S. dealings in international climate efforts since last year have committed the United States to any emissions cuts that would undermine Trump’s domestic energy agenda.</p>
<p>The State Department – which handles the bulk of U.S. climate policy abroad - told Reuters it was still developing its global warming policy under Trump.</p>
<p>“In the meantime, we will continue to participate ... to ensure a level playing field that benefits and protects U.S. interests, and to keep all options open for the President,” State Department spokesman Ambrose Sayles said in a statement before Trump sacked Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Tuesday.</p>
<p>Tillerson’s departure leaves a question mark over the future of U.S. climate policy abroad. Tillerson was in favor of the Paris accord, while his successor, Mike Pompeo, has expressed doubts about the science of climate change. Climate advocates say they hope Pompeo will be too distracted by tensions with Iran and North Korea to change the State Department’s approach to climate change.</p>
<p>White House spokesman Raj Shah did not respond to specific questions about how the U.S. was conducting its climate policy overseas, but said the administration sought to balance economic and environmental concerns.</p>
<p>“The climate has changed and is always changing,” Shah said. “To address climate change as well as other risks, the United States will continue to promote access to the affordable and reliable energy needed to grow economically, and to support technology, innovation and the development of modern and efficient infrastructure that will reduce emissions and enable us to address future risks.”</p> ROLLBACK AT HOME, RULEBOOK ABROAD
<p>Trump announced last year that he was withdrawing the United States from the Paris Agreement&#160;to fight global warming, raising concerns among other parties to the deal that Washington might attempt to torpedo the accord or disengage from it completely.</p>
<p>That hasn’t happened. Washington sent a 40-strong delegation to talks in Bonn in November to help draft rules of the road for the 200 participating nations. It was a smaller delegation than Washington had sent to past meetings, but it still won praise from fellow delegates for its work.</p>
<p>For example, Andrew Rakestraw – a climate negotiator for the State Department since 2013 - co-chaired discussions on how to ensure that the pledges by signatories are comparable and use the same accounting standards - a point seen as critical to the success of the accord.</p>
<p>Nazhat Shameem Khan, chief negotiator for Fiji, which presided over the talks, said the United States delegation was “constructive and helpful.”&#160; The U.N.’s climate chief, Patricia Espinosa, also called the U.S. role constructive.&#160;</p> Mountains stick up through a massive ice sheet covering Greenland near the eastern coast of the country, March 13, 2018. REUTERS/Lucas Jackson
<p>Thomas Shannon, the State Department’s chief climate negotiator in Bonn, did not respond to requests for comment. Rakestraw also did not respond to calls and emails requesting comment.</p>
<p>A U.S. source familiar with the U.S. position at the talks, who asked not to be named, said that U.S. delegates in Bonn were pushing an agenda that resembled those of past administrations – stressing that emerging economies like China follow the same rules as developed nations and meet international standards for monitoring and reporting emissions.</p>
<p>There was one jarring note: Washington sponsored a side event to promote “clean coal.” Some other delegates said they were unhappy with this, as they wanted the talks to focus on renewable energies.</p>
<p>Under the details of the accord, the United States cannot formally withdraw until 2020.</p> ARCTIC MELTING AND SOLAR POWER
<p>The State Department’s delegations to the Arctic Council are continuing their work in much the same way they did under President Barack Obama - acknowledging that warming is real and should be countered in planning everything from new shipping routes to the protection of indigenous peoples.</p> Slideshow (7 Images)
<p>Some U.S. agencies are also still bolstering international efforts to fight climate change.</p>
<p>The Overseas Private Investment Corporation, which seeks to advance U.S. policy by financing foreign business ventures, doubled its support for solar projects in 2017 under a climate-friendly policy last updated by the Obama administration.</p>
<p>And NASA, the U.S. space agency, continues to research climate change, publish climate change data, and contribute to international reports, spokesman Stephen Cole said.</p>
<p>&#160;&#160;&#160; Both OPIC and NASA are independent of the State Department, so would not be under Pompeo’s sway.</p> ‘NO CHALLENGE’
<p>&#160;&#160;&#160; Scientists representing the United States in international research say they have also been unfettered by the Trump administration, despite concerns early in the Trump presidency that the White House would seek to silence them or restrict their work.</p>
<p>“There has been no pressure on U.S. authors,” said one U.S. scientist, who is now helping to write a United Nations report that will call for coal to be “phased out rapidly” to limit global warming -&#160; a direct clash with Trump’s pro-coal agenda.</p>
<p>The scientist asked not to be named because the draft report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), due to be released in October, is confidential.</p>
<p>“Our U.S. colleagues know that climate change is not a hoax,” said one of the non-U.S. authors of the same report, who also spoke on condition of anonymity.</p>
<p>Christopher Field, a professor of environmental studies at Stanford University who co-chaired a 2014 IPCC report on the impacts of climate change,&#160;agreed:&#160;“I’ve not seen any indication that the climate denialism from Trump and other members of the administration has had any influence ... on the alignment of the U.S. scientific community with the scientific consensus around the world.”</p>
<p>Still, scientists worry that while the Trump administration is not interfering with their research it is ignoring it.</p>
<p>The Trump administration made no move to block an assessment by 300 experts last year that outlined the threats and causes of warming in&#160;the United States and concluded there is “no convincing alternative explanation” for climate change than human activity.</p>
<p>“But then they haven’t acknowledged the findings, nor changed their climate science denying stance,” said the U.S. scientist involved in drafting the U.N. coal report.</p>
<p>Additional reporting by Valerie Volcovici in Washington and Nichola Groom in Los Angeles; Editing by Richard Valdmanis and Ross Colvin</p> Our Standards:
<a href="" type="internal">The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.</a>
<p>WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Special Counsel Robert Mueller has subpoenaed the Trump Organization for documents, including some related to Russia, the New York Times reported on Thursday, citing two people briefed on the matter.</p> FILE PHOTO: Special Counsel Robert Mueller departs after briefing members of the U.S. Senate on his investigation into potential collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, U.S., June 21, 2017. REUTERS/Joshua Roberts/File Photo
<p>Details of the subpoena were not available, the New York Times reported, but it was the first known time Mueller demanded materials directly related to U.S. President Donald Trump’s businesses.</p>
<p>U.S. stock prices fell on the report, with the S&amp;P 500 reaching session lows, while the dollar slipped against the euro and yen and yields on U.S. government debt moved lower.</p>
<p>The White House declined to comment specifically on the report and referred questions to the Trump Organization.</p>
<p>“We’re going to continue to fully cooperate. Out of respect for the special counsel, we’re not going to comment,” White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said during a briefing on Thursday.</p>
<p>A Trump Organization spokeswoman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.</p>
<p>Mueller is investigating Russian attempts to influence the 2016 U.S. election, and potential collusion by Trump aides. Russia has denied U.S. intelligence agencies’ conclusion that it meddled in the election and Trump has said there was no collusion between his campaign and Moscow officials.</p>
<p>Mueller has charged several Trump associates and more than a dozen Russians.</p>
<p>Peter Carr, a spokesman for Mueller, declined to comment on the Times report.</p>
<p>Witnesses interviewed by Mueller have been asked about a possible real estate deal in Moscow, although the Trump Organization has denied having any real estate holdings in Russia, the Times reported.</p>
<p>Reporting by Karen Freifeld, Doina Chiacu and James Oliphant; editing by Grant McCool</p> Our Standards:
<a href="" type="internal">The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.</a> | BRIEF-Nath Bio-Genes (I) Sets Issue Price Of 455 Rupees Per Share U.S. sanctions Russians for meddling, but puts off punishing oligarchs White House: will remain tough on Russia until its behavior changes Weathering Trump's skepticism, U.S. officials still fighting global warming U.S. special counsel subpoenas Trump Organization for documents: NYT | false | https://reuters.com/article/brief-nath-bio-genes-sets-issue-price-of/brief-nath-bio-genes-sets-issue-price-of-455-rupees-per-share-idUSFWN1PJ1G1 | 2018-01-25 | 2least
| BRIEF-Nath Bio-Genes (I) Sets Issue Price Of 455 Rupees Per Share U.S. sanctions Russians for meddling, but puts off punishing oligarchs White House: will remain tough on Russia until its behavior changes Weathering Trump's skepticism, U.S. officials still fighting global warming U.S. special counsel subpoenas Trump Organization for documents: NYT
<p>Jan 25 (Reuters) - Nath Bio-Genes (I) Ltd:</p>
<p>* SETS ISSUE PRICE OF 455 RUPEES PER SHARE Source text for Eikon: Further company coverage:</p> Our Standards:
<a href="" type="internal">The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.</a>
<p>WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The United States slapped sanctions on Russian individuals and entities for U.S. election meddling and cyber attacks but put off targeting oligarchs and government officials close to President Vladimir Putin, prompting lawmakers in both parties to say President Donald Trump needs to do much more.</p>
<p>With the United States under pressure to act, the actions announced by the U.S. Treasury Department - targeting 19 individuals and five entities including Russian intelligence services - represented the most significant steps taken against Moscow since Trump assumed office in January 2017.</p>
<p>The United States also joined Britain, Germany and France in demanding that Russia explain a military-grade nerve toxin attack in England on a former Russian double agent, and Trump said “it certainly looks like the Russians were behind” the incident.</p>
<p>But congressional critics called the administration’s action a woefully inadequate retaliation for Russia interference in the 2016 U.S. election and cyber attacks stretching back two years that targeted the U.S. power grid including nuclear facilities.</p>
<p>“The sanctions today are a grievous disappointment and fall far short of what is needed to respond to that attack on our democracy let alone deter Russia’s escalating aggression, which now includes a chemical weapons attack on the soil of our closest ally,” said Adam Schiff, the top Democrat on the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee.</p>
<p>“Today’s action, using authorities provided by Congress, is an important step by the administration. But more must be done,” Republican House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Ed Royce added.</p>
<p>Trump has faced fierce criticism in the United States for doing too little to punish Russia for the election meddling and other actions, and special counsel Robert Mueller is looking into whether Trump’s campaign colluded with the Russians, an allegation the president denies.</p>
<p>Sixteen of the Russian individuals and entities sanctioned were indicted on Feb. 16 as part of Mueller’s criminal investigation.</p>
<p>“They didn’t hit Putin’s power structure and they didn’t team up with Europe,” Brian O’Toole, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council think tank and a former senior adviser at the Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control, said of the administration’s actions.</p>
<p>A senior administration official told Reuters that Trump, who campaigned on warmer ties with Putin, has grown exasperated with Russian activity.</p>
<p>In Moscow, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Russia was preparing retaliatory measures, as U.S.-Russian relations plunged again despite Trump’s stated desire for improved ties.</p>
<p>Thursday’s announcement also marked the first time that the U.S. government stated publicly that Russia had attempted to break into the American energy grid, which U.S. security officials have longed warned may be vulnerable to debilitating cyber attacks from hostile adversaries.</p>
<p>The Treasury Department said the sanctions were also meant to counter destructive cyber attacks including the NotPetya attack that cost billions of dollars in damage across Europe, Asia and the United States. The United States and Britain last month blamed Russian military for that attack.</p> FILE PHOTO: U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin discusses the Trump administration's tax reform proposal in the White House briefing room in Washington, U.S, April 26, 2017. REUTERS/Carlos Barria/File photo
<p>Trump has frequently questioned a January 2017 finding by U.S. intelligence agencies that Russia interfered in the 2016 campaign using hacking and propaganda in an effort eventually aimed at tilting the race in Trump’s favor. Russia denies interfering in the election.</p>
<p>But Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin was unequivocal in saying that Thursday’s action by his department “counters Russia’s continuing destabilizing activities, ranging from interference in the 2016 election to conducting destructive cyber-attacks.”</p> ‘GET SMART’
<p>“Putin constantly attacks our friends. So, President Trump, are you going to get smart about the threat Russia poses to the United States and our allies?” Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said.</p>
<p>Schiff said that only two new senior Russian officials with ties to military intelligence were included in Thursday’s action and the Obama administration had already imposed sanctions in December 2016 on the other named Russian intelligence entities and individuals.</p> FILE PHOTO: Voters cast their votes during the U.S. presidential election in Elyria, Ohio, U.S. November 8, 2016. REUTERS/Aaron Josefczyk/File Photo
<p>Trump told reporters during a White House event with Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar that “it certainly looks like the Russians were behind” the use of a nerve agent to attack Sergei Skripal, a former Russian double agent in England. Trump called it “something that should never, ever happen, and we’re taking it very seriously, as I think are many others.”</p>
<p>Russian government hackers since at least March 2016 “have also targeted U.S. government entities and multiple U.S. critical infrastructure sectors, including the energy, nuclear, commercial facilities, water, aviation, and critical manufacturing sectors,” a Treasury Department statement said.</p>
<p>A senior administration told reporters on a conference call that Russian actors infiltrated parts of the U.S. energy sector.</p>
<p>“We were able to identify where they were located within those business systems and remove them from those business systems,” the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.</p> Related Coverage
<a href="/article/us-usa-russia-sanctions-whitehouse/white-house-will-remain-tough-on-russia-until-its-behavior-changes-idUSKCN1GR313" type="external">White House: will remain tough on Russia until its behavior changes</a>
<a href="/article/us-usa-russia-sanctions-energygrid/u-s-blames-russia-for-cyber-attacks-on-energy-grid-other-sectors-idUSKCN1GR2G3" type="external">U.S. blames Russia for cyber attacks on energy grid, other sectors</a>
<a href="/article/us-usa-russia-sanctions-prigozhin/russian-businessman-prigozhin-dismisses-new-u-s-sanctions-ria-idUSKCN1GR2G7" type="external">Russian businessman Prigozhin dismisses new U.S. sanctions: RIA</a>
<p>Mnuchin said there would be additional sanctions against Russian government officials and oligarchs “for their destabilizing activities.” Mnuchin did not give a time frame for those sanctions, which he said would sever the individuals’ access to the U.S. financial system.</p>
<p>The new sanctions include Russian intelligence services, the Federal Security Service (FSB) and Main Intelligence Directorate (GRU), and six individuals working on behalf of the GRU.</p>
<p>Thursday’s action blocks all property of those targeted that is subject to U.S. jurisdiction and prohibits American citizens from engaging in transactions with them.</p>
<p>Russian businessman Evgeny Prigozhin, one of those indicted by Mueller and hit with sanctions on Thursday, said in comments cited by RIA news agency that he was not worried.</p>
<p>“I have been sanctioned maybe three or four times - I’m tired of counting, I can’t remember. I don’t have any business in the United States or with Americans. I’m not worried by this. Except that now I will stop going to McDonald’s,” Prigozhin was quoted as saying.</p>
<p>Reporting by Steve Holland and Doina Chiacu; Additional reporting by Dustin Volz, Lesley Wroughton, Warren Strobel and James Oliphant in Washington and Polina Ivanova in Moscow; Editing by Mary Milliken and Will Dunham</p> Our Standards:
<a href="" type="internal">The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.</a>
<p>WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration will maintain tough policies against Russia until Moscow changes its behavior, the White House said on Thursday.</p> White House Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders takes questions during a daily briefing at the White House in Washington, U.S. March 12, 2018. REUTERS/Leah Millis
<p>“I think you can see from the actions we’ve taken up until this point we’re going to be tough on Russia until they decide to change their behavior,” White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders told a regular briefing after being asked if Russian President Vladimir Putin was “playing” Trump.</p>
<p>Earlier in the day, Washington slapped sanctions on Russian individuals and entities for alleged U.S. election meddling and cyber attacks but put off targeting oligarchs and government officials close to Putin, prompting U.S. lawmakers in both parties to say Trump needs to do much more.</p>
<p>Reporting by Jim Oliphant; Writing by Eric Walsh; Editing by Eric Beech</p> Our Standards:
<a href="" type="internal">The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.</a>
<p>WASHINGTON/OSLO (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump has bashed international efforts to combat climate change and questioned the scientific consensus that global warming is dangerous and driven by human consumption of fossil fuels.</p>
<p>But there is a disconnect between what Trump says at home and what his government does abroad. While attention has been focused on Trump’s rhetoric, State Department envoys, federal agencies, and government scientists remain active participants in international efforts to both research and fight climate change, according to U.S. and foreign representatives involved in those efforts.</p>
<p>“We really don’t detect any change with the Americans,” said one of the officials, Aleksi Härkönen of Finland, who chairs the eight-nation Arctic Council’s key group of senior officials, who are charged with protecting a region warming faster than any other on Earth.</p>
<p>Over the past year, the United States has helped draft the rulebook for implementing the Paris climate accord, signed international memoranda calling for global action to fight climate change, boosted funding for overseas clean energy projects, and contributed to global research on the dangers and causes of the Earth’s warming.</p>
<p>While the United States’ participation in international forums – including the Paris accord and the Arctic Council - has been reported, its continued, broad and constructive support for climate change efforts in these gatherings has not.</p>
<p>This business-as-usual approach has surprised some of America’s foreign partners, along with some of Trump’s allies, who had expected the new administration to match its rhetoric with an obstructionist approach to combating climate change.</p>
<p>“I am concerned that much of our climate policy remains on autopilot,” complained Trump’s former energy adviser Myron Ebell, now a research director at the right-leaning Competitive Enterprise Institute, who said it reflects a failure by the administration to fill key positions and replace staffers who oppose the president’s agenda.</p>
<p>The U.S. efforts abroad to tackle climate change have been counter-balanced by Trump’s aggressive push at home to increase production of the fossil fuels scientists blame for global warming. He has also ordered a wide-ranging rollback of Obama-era climate regulations and appointed a self-described climate skeptic, Scott Pruitt, as the nation’s chief environmental regulator.</p>
<p>And to be sure, none of the U.S. dealings in international climate efforts since last year have committed the United States to any emissions cuts that would undermine Trump’s domestic energy agenda.</p>
<p>The State Department – which handles the bulk of U.S. climate policy abroad - told Reuters it was still developing its global warming policy under Trump.</p>
<p>“In the meantime, we will continue to participate ... to ensure a level playing field that benefits and protects U.S. interests, and to keep all options open for the President,” State Department spokesman Ambrose Sayles said in a statement before Trump sacked Secretary of State Rex Tillerson on Tuesday.</p>
<p>Tillerson’s departure leaves a question mark over the future of U.S. climate policy abroad. Tillerson was in favor of the Paris accord, while his successor, Mike Pompeo, has expressed doubts about the science of climate change. Climate advocates say they hope Pompeo will be too distracted by tensions with Iran and North Korea to change the State Department’s approach to climate change.</p>
<p>White House spokesman Raj Shah did not respond to specific questions about how the U.S. was conducting its climate policy overseas, but said the administration sought to balance economic and environmental concerns.</p>
<p>“The climate has changed and is always changing,” Shah said. “To address climate change as well as other risks, the United States will continue to promote access to the affordable and reliable energy needed to grow economically, and to support technology, innovation and the development of modern and efficient infrastructure that will reduce emissions and enable us to address future risks.”</p> ROLLBACK AT HOME, RULEBOOK ABROAD
<p>Trump announced last year that he was withdrawing the United States from the Paris Agreement&#160;to fight global warming, raising concerns among other parties to the deal that Washington might attempt to torpedo the accord or disengage from it completely.</p>
<p>That hasn’t happened. Washington sent a 40-strong delegation to talks in Bonn in November to help draft rules of the road for the 200 participating nations. It was a smaller delegation than Washington had sent to past meetings, but it still won praise from fellow delegates for its work.</p>
<p>For example, Andrew Rakestraw – a climate negotiator for the State Department since 2013 - co-chaired discussions on how to ensure that the pledges by signatories are comparable and use the same accounting standards - a point seen as critical to the success of the accord.</p>
<p>Nazhat Shameem Khan, chief negotiator for Fiji, which presided over the talks, said the United States delegation was “constructive and helpful.”&#160; The U.N.’s climate chief, Patricia Espinosa, also called the U.S. role constructive.&#160;</p> Mountains stick up through a massive ice sheet covering Greenland near the eastern coast of the country, March 13, 2018. REUTERS/Lucas Jackson
<p>Thomas Shannon, the State Department’s chief climate negotiator in Bonn, did not respond to requests for comment. Rakestraw also did not respond to calls and emails requesting comment.</p>
<p>A U.S. source familiar with the U.S. position at the talks, who asked not to be named, said that U.S. delegates in Bonn were pushing an agenda that resembled those of past administrations – stressing that emerging economies like China follow the same rules as developed nations and meet international standards for monitoring and reporting emissions.</p>
<p>There was one jarring note: Washington sponsored a side event to promote “clean coal.” Some other delegates said they were unhappy with this, as they wanted the talks to focus on renewable energies.</p>
<p>Under the details of the accord, the United States cannot formally withdraw until 2020.</p> ARCTIC MELTING AND SOLAR POWER
<p>The State Department’s delegations to the Arctic Council are continuing their work in much the same way they did under President Barack Obama - acknowledging that warming is real and should be countered in planning everything from new shipping routes to the protection of indigenous peoples.</p> Slideshow (7 Images)
<p>Some U.S. agencies are also still bolstering international efforts to fight climate change.</p>
<p>The Overseas Private Investment Corporation, which seeks to advance U.S. policy by financing foreign business ventures, doubled its support for solar projects in 2017 under a climate-friendly policy last updated by the Obama administration.</p>
<p>And NASA, the U.S. space agency, continues to research climate change, publish climate change data, and contribute to international reports, spokesman Stephen Cole said.</p>
<p>&#160;&#160;&#160; Both OPIC and NASA are independent of the State Department, so would not be under Pompeo’s sway.</p> ‘NO CHALLENGE’
<p>&#160;&#160;&#160; Scientists representing the United States in international research say they have also been unfettered by the Trump administration, despite concerns early in the Trump presidency that the White House would seek to silence them or restrict their work.</p>
<p>“There has been no pressure on U.S. authors,” said one U.S. scientist, who is now helping to write a United Nations report that will call for coal to be “phased out rapidly” to limit global warming -&#160; a direct clash with Trump’s pro-coal agenda.</p>
<p>The scientist asked not to be named because the draft report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), due to be released in October, is confidential.</p>
<p>“Our U.S. colleagues know that climate change is not a hoax,” said one of the non-U.S. authors of the same report, who also spoke on condition of anonymity.</p>
<p>Christopher Field, a professor of environmental studies at Stanford University who co-chaired a 2014 IPCC report on the impacts of climate change,&#160;agreed:&#160;“I’ve not seen any indication that the climate denialism from Trump and other members of the administration has had any influence ... on the alignment of the U.S. scientific community with the scientific consensus around the world.”</p>
<p>Still, scientists worry that while the Trump administration is not interfering with their research it is ignoring it.</p>
<p>The Trump administration made no move to block an assessment by 300 experts last year that outlined the threats and causes of warming in&#160;the United States and concluded there is “no convincing alternative explanation” for climate change than human activity.</p>
<p>“But then they haven’t acknowledged the findings, nor changed their climate science denying stance,” said the U.S. scientist involved in drafting the U.N. coal report.</p>
<p>Additional reporting by Valerie Volcovici in Washington and Nichola Groom in Los Angeles; Editing by Richard Valdmanis and Ross Colvin</p> Our Standards:
<a href="" type="internal">The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.</a>
<p>WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Special Counsel Robert Mueller has subpoenaed the Trump Organization for documents, including some related to Russia, the New York Times reported on Thursday, citing two people briefed on the matter.</p> FILE PHOTO: Special Counsel Robert Mueller departs after briefing members of the U.S. Senate on his investigation into potential collusion between Russia and the Trump campaign on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, U.S., June 21, 2017. REUTERS/Joshua Roberts/File Photo
<p>Details of the subpoena were not available, the New York Times reported, but it was the first known time Mueller demanded materials directly related to U.S. President Donald Trump’s businesses.</p>
<p>U.S. stock prices fell on the report, with the S&amp;P 500 reaching session lows, while the dollar slipped against the euro and yen and yields on U.S. government debt moved lower.</p>
<p>The White House declined to comment specifically on the report and referred questions to the Trump Organization.</p>
<p>“We’re going to continue to fully cooperate. Out of respect for the special counsel, we’re not going to comment,” White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said during a briefing on Thursday.</p>
<p>A Trump Organization spokeswoman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.</p>
<p>Mueller is investigating Russian attempts to influence the 2016 U.S. election, and potential collusion by Trump aides. Russia has denied U.S. intelligence agencies’ conclusion that it meddled in the election and Trump has said there was no collusion between his campaign and Moscow officials.</p>
<p>Mueller has charged several Trump associates and more than a dozen Russians.</p>
<p>Peter Carr, a spokesman for Mueller, declined to comment on the Times report.</p>
<p>Witnesses interviewed by Mueller have been asked about a possible real estate deal in Moscow, although the Trump Organization has denied having any real estate holdings in Russia, the Times reported.</p>
<p>Reporting by Karen Freifeld, Doina Chiacu and James Oliphant; editing by Grant McCool</p> Our Standards:
<a href="" type="internal">The Thomson Reuters Trust Principles.</a> | 599,132 |
<p />
<p>Employees looking to get a leg up at work should be studying the moves of Barack Obama, <a href="" type="internal">Mitt Romney</a>, <a href="" type="internal">Rick Santorum</a> and the rest of this year's political candidates, new research finds.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>In a study from staffing firm <a href="http://www.roberthalf.com/" type="external">Robert Half International Opens a New Window.</a>, nearly 60 percent of workers said involvement in office politics is at least somewhat necessary to get ahead.</p>
<p>There is <a href="http://www.livescience.com/8878-rising-rancor-nation-divisible-politics.html" type="external">some degree of politics at play Opens a New Window.</a> in virtually every organization, according to Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of <a href="" type="internal">Robert Half International</a>.</p>
<p>"The savviest professionals practice workplace diplomacy," Messmer said. "They remain attuned to political undercurrents but don't allow themselves to get pulled into situations that could compromise their working relationships or reputation."</p>
<p>For employees, Robert Half offers some advice on successfully navigating office politics, including:</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>The research was based on surveys of more than 400 U.S. workers employed in an office environment.</p>
<p>Chad Brooks is a Chicago-based freelance writer who has worked in public relations and spent 10 years working as a newspaper reporter and now works as a&#160;freelancer business and technology reporter. You can reach him at&#160; <a href="http://www.businessnewsdaily.com/[email protected]%C2%A0" type="external">[email protected]&#160; Opens a New Window.</a>or follow him on <a href="" type="internal">Twitter</a> @cbrooks76.</p>
<p>Copyright 2012 BusinessNewsDaily, a TechMediaNetwork company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.</p>
<p>Read more from BusinessNewsDaily:</p> | Office Politics a Necessary Evil, Survey Finds | true | http://foxbusiness.com/features/2012/02/22/office-politics-necessary-evil-survey-finds.html | 2016-03-23 | 0right
| Office Politics a Necessary Evil, Survey Finds
<p />
<p>Employees looking to get a leg up at work should be studying the moves of Barack Obama, <a href="" type="internal">Mitt Romney</a>, <a href="" type="internal">Rick Santorum</a> and the rest of this year's political candidates, new research finds.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>In a study from staffing firm <a href="http://www.roberthalf.com/" type="external">Robert Half International Opens a New Window.</a>, nearly 60 percent of workers said involvement in office politics is at least somewhat necessary to get ahead.</p>
<p>There is <a href="http://www.livescience.com/8878-rising-rancor-nation-divisible-politics.html" type="external">some degree of politics at play Opens a New Window.</a> in virtually every organization, according to Max Messmer, chairman and CEO of <a href="" type="internal">Robert Half International</a>.</p>
<p>"The savviest professionals practice workplace diplomacy," Messmer said. "They remain attuned to political undercurrents but don't allow themselves to get pulled into situations that could compromise their working relationships or reputation."</p>
<p>For employees, Robert Half offers some advice on successfully navigating office politics, including:</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>The research was based on surveys of more than 400 U.S. workers employed in an office environment.</p>
<p>Chad Brooks is a Chicago-based freelance writer who has worked in public relations and spent 10 years working as a newspaper reporter and now works as a&#160;freelancer business and technology reporter. You can reach him at&#160; <a href="http://www.businessnewsdaily.com/[email protected]%C2%A0" type="external">[email protected]&#160; Opens a New Window.</a>or follow him on <a href="" type="internal">Twitter</a> @cbrooks76.</p>
<p>Copyright 2012 BusinessNewsDaily, a TechMediaNetwork company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.</p>
<p>Read more from BusinessNewsDaily:</p> | 599,133 |
<p>Arnold Schwarzenegger has had enough of Rush Limbaugh, who refers to the California governor as a “closet liberal.” On Tuesday’s “Today Show,” Arnold <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/03/20/arnold.rush/" type="external">fired back</a>, saying “Limbaugh is irrelevant.” That was apparently too much for Rush, who responded on own show by saying Arnold has clearly “sold out.”</p>
<p>CNN:</p>
<p>Rush Limbaugh likes to call himself “The Most Dangerous Man in America” because critics have long worried about how his powerful radio show shapes the political landscape.</p>
<p>And then came California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who frankly told “The Today Show” Tuesday that “Limbaugh is irrelevant.”</p>
<p />
<p>“I’m not his servant,” Schwarzenegger said. “I am the people’s servant of California.”</p>
<p><a href="http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/03/20/arnold.rush/" type="external">Read more and Watch</a></p> | Limbaugh Picks a Fight with Schwarzenegger | true | https://truthdig.com/articles/limbaugh-picks-a-fight-with-schwarzenegger/ | 2007-03-21 | 4left
| Limbaugh Picks a Fight with Schwarzenegger
<p>Arnold Schwarzenegger has had enough of Rush Limbaugh, who refers to the California governor as a “closet liberal.” On Tuesday’s “Today Show,” Arnold <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/03/20/arnold.rush/" type="external">fired back</a>, saying “Limbaugh is irrelevant.” That was apparently too much for Rush, who responded on own show by saying Arnold has clearly “sold out.”</p>
<p>CNN:</p>
<p>Rush Limbaugh likes to call himself “The Most Dangerous Man in America” because critics have long worried about how his powerful radio show shapes the political landscape.</p>
<p>And then came California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, who frankly told “The Today Show” Tuesday that “Limbaugh is irrelevant.”</p>
<p />
<p>“I’m not his servant,” Schwarzenegger said. “I am the people’s servant of California.”</p>
<p><a href="http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/03/20/arnold.rush/" type="external">Read more and Watch</a></p> | 599,134 |
<p>Flickr/&lt;a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/vancouverfilmschool/" target="_blank"&gt;vancouverfilmschool&lt;/a&gt; (&lt;a href="http://creativecommons.org/" target="_blank"&gt;Creative Commons&lt;/a&gt;)</p>
<p />
<p>It happens every time: When the going gets tough, arts programs get going.</p>
<p>This time, a budget squeeze in California has prompted severe cuts in the statewide college system, including a bloodbath of arts and humanities programs that has largely escaped media attention.&#160;In the past year, UC Davis <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/11/education/11calif.html" type="external">cut</a> nearly 50 courses in humanities, arts, and cultural studies; UC Irvine put its Latin American program on hold; UC Santa Cruz 86ed its music minor; Cal State Humboldt <a href="http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-cal-state29-2009nov29,0,4012651.story?track=rss" type="external">closed</a> its Natural History Museum; and Cal State Dominguez exorcised its newspaper, and is pondering cutting music, art, and Chicano study courses.</p>
<p>There have been a few cuts outside these fields, but not many. And the problem is largely ideological. Yesterday, the managing editor of the local Manteca Bulletin penned a <a href="http://www.mantecabulletin.com/news/article/9859/" type="external">piece</a> in which he sniffed of closing the deficit:</p>
<p>They could do it in part by whittling down majors such as Dutch Studies, Celtic Studies, Art History, Dance &amp; Performance, Sculpture, Theater, Music-Bassoon, Playwriting, and Visual Arts to name just a few… why should some struggling farm worker in Mendota have to pay sales tax on clothes to keep his kids warm where part of it will go to underwrite 26 percent of the tab of someone majoring in Art History?</p>
<p>Why? Because art history majors go on to be curators, appraisers, and gallery owners, all jobs that boost the local economy (not to mention culture) at a time when that’s desperately needed. So do people who run cultural centers, perform in local theater, play in concert halls, or any number of other jobs that descend from arts and humanities degrees.</p>
<p>If schools get “whittled down” to the technical fields only, all these people will be left without the opportunity to do what they’re good at, and the job field will become even smaller. At a time like this, that’s the last thing we need.</p>
<p /> | Arts Degrees: Who Needs Them? | true | https://motherjones.com/politics/2009/12/arts-degrees-who-needs-them/ | 2009-12-16 | 4left
| Arts Degrees: Who Needs Them?
<p>Flickr/&lt;a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/vancouverfilmschool/" target="_blank"&gt;vancouverfilmschool&lt;/a&gt; (&lt;a href="http://creativecommons.org/" target="_blank"&gt;Creative Commons&lt;/a&gt;)</p>
<p />
<p>It happens every time: When the going gets tough, arts programs get going.</p>
<p>This time, a budget squeeze in California has prompted severe cuts in the statewide college system, including a bloodbath of arts and humanities programs that has largely escaped media attention.&#160;In the past year, UC Davis <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/11/education/11calif.html" type="external">cut</a> nearly 50 courses in humanities, arts, and cultural studies; UC Irvine put its Latin American program on hold; UC Santa Cruz 86ed its music minor; Cal State Humboldt <a href="http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-cal-state29-2009nov29,0,4012651.story?track=rss" type="external">closed</a> its Natural History Museum; and Cal State Dominguez exorcised its newspaper, and is pondering cutting music, art, and Chicano study courses.</p>
<p>There have been a few cuts outside these fields, but not many. And the problem is largely ideological. Yesterday, the managing editor of the local Manteca Bulletin penned a <a href="http://www.mantecabulletin.com/news/article/9859/" type="external">piece</a> in which he sniffed of closing the deficit:</p>
<p>They could do it in part by whittling down majors such as Dutch Studies, Celtic Studies, Art History, Dance &amp; Performance, Sculpture, Theater, Music-Bassoon, Playwriting, and Visual Arts to name just a few… why should some struggling farm worker in Mendota have to pay sales tax on clothes to keep his kids warm where part of it will go to underwrite 26 percent of the tab of someone majoring in Art History?</p>
<p>Why? Because art history majors go on to be curators, appraisers, and gallery owners, all jobs that boost the local economy (not to mention culture) at a time when that’s desperately needed. So do people who run cultural centers, perform in local theater, play in concert halls, or any number of other jobs that descend from arts and humanities degrees.</p>
<p>If schools get “whittled down” to the technical fields only, all these people will be left without the opportunity to do what they’re good at, and the job field will become even smaller. At a time like this, that’s the last thing we need.</p>
<p /> | 599,135 |
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>Selected by the Baltimore Orioles in round 22 of last week’s major league draft, Walker is set to report to the team’s spring training facility in Sarasota, Fla., for physical examinations and rookie orientation.</p>
<p>Flying to Florida represents the first big step in what Walker hopes will be an extended baseball journey. A Rio Rancho native, who pitched for Rio Rancho High and the University of New Mexico, Walker said the past few days have been an exciting blur.</p>
<p>Josh Walker may soon be pitching for the Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds. (Greg Sorber/Albuquerque Journal)</p>
<p>“To think I’ve signed my player agreement and will be reporting to Florida this week feels pretty incredible,” Walker said. “This is something I’ve always wanted to do, but it’s all happened so quickly.”</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Walker, who recently concluded an outstanding three-year career at UNM, said the draft effectively threw him a curveball. He hoped to be selected somewhere between the 12th and 25th rounds and had those hopes affirmed on day two of the three-day draft.</p>
<p>“The Detroit Tigers called me on the second day and asked if I was ready to go,” Walker said. “Then the (Florida) Marlins texted me that night and basically asked the same thing. So when the third day started I really thought it was down to those two teams.”</p>
<p>Walker and his mother were listening to an audio broadcast of the draft Saturday, when he unexpectedly heard his name called.</p>
<p>“It was a complete shock,” Walker said. “At first I thought it was a mistake. The Orioles didn’t call first or anything, but maybe a minute later the phone rang and it was (Orioles area scout) John Gillette. I thought, ‘OK, this is legit. Awesome.'”</p>
<p>Being drafted by Baltimore did not come entirely out of left field, Walker said. The organization had shown considerable interest in him throughout his senior season. He talked with Gillette during the Mountain West tournament in Las Vegas, Nev., as well.</p>
<p>Since the draft Walker has been in communication with Orioles personnel on a daily basis. He’s been told that if all goes well in Florida, a trip to Aberdeen, Md. – home of the Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds – could soon follow.</p>
<p>“They told me they’d probably assign me to short-season Single-A ball,” Walker said. “I’m really excited to get started.”</p>
<p>If he is assigned to Aberdeen, Walker will have an opportunity to get more familiar with his new organization. Ripken Stadium, the IronBirds’ home ballpark, is just 26 miles from Baltimore.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“I’ve gotten to like the Orioles lately,” Walker said. “They’ve got some good up-and-coming players and have started being contenders. To be honest, though, Cal Ripken Jr. was the only Orioles player I knew before the last couple years.</p>
<p>“I’ve started doing some research. I don’t want to be completely oblivious about my organization.”</p>
<p>Walker was one of three Lobos drafted this year, joining senior outfielder Chase Harris (Philadelphia Phillies, 14th round) and junior catcher Alex Real (Minnesota Twins, 24th round). The draft basically progressed as UNM coach Ray Birmingham had hoped.</p>
<p>“I felt like the three guys who should’ve been drafted were drafted,” Birmingham said. “Playing pro ball is a dream they all had, and I’m happy to see them get their shot.”</p>
<p>Three recent high school players who have committed to New Mexico also were drafted late Saturday. First baseman/right-handed pitcher Carl Stajduhar of Colorado Springs Rocky Mountain was selected by the Atlanta Braves in the 27th round, RHP James Harrington of Arizona’s Mesquite High went to the Phillies in 33rd round, and catcher Cory Voss of Colorado’s Pueblo South went to the Colorado Rockies in round 34.</p>
<p>Birmingham hopes all three will choose to become Lobos rather than sign pro contracts.</p>
<p>“Most kids coming out of high school will improve their stock if they go to college,” Birmingham said. “Now, if you’re drafted early and get life-changing money, that’s different. But pro ball is hard, and guys drafted in the late rounds trying to work their way up have it even harder. Hopefully, these kids will see that and decide to come be Lobos.”</p>
<p />
<p /> | Ex-Lobo Walker ready for his pro career | false | https://abqjournal.com/413828/exlobo-walker-ready-for-his-pro-career.html | 2least
| Ex-Lobo Walker ready for his pro career
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>Selected by the Baltimore Orioles in round 22 of last week’s major league draft, Walker is set to report to the team’s spring training facility in Sarasota, Fla., for physical examinations and rookie orientation.</p>
<p>Flying to Florida represents the first big step in what Walker hopes will be an extended baseball journey. A Rio Rancho native, who pitched for Rio Rancho High and the University of New Mexico, Walker said the past few days have been an exciting blur.</p>
<p>Josh Walker may soon be pitching for the Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds. (Greg Sorber/Albuquerque Journal)</p>
<p>“To think I’ve signed my player agreement and will be reporting to Florida this week feels pretty incredible,” Walker said. “This is something I’ve always wanted to do, but it’s all happened so quickly.”</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Walker, who recently concluded an outstanding three-year career at UNM, said the draft effectively threw him a curveball. He hoped to be selected somewhere between the 12th and 25th rounds and had those hopes affirmed on day two of the three-day draft.</p>
<p>“The Detroit Tigers called me on the second day and asked if I was ready to go,” Walker said. “Then the (Florida) Marlins texted me that night and basically asked the same thing. So when the third day started I really thought it was down to those two teams.”</p>
<p>Walker and his mother were listening to an audio broadcast of the draft Saturday, when he unexpectedly heard his name called.</p>
<p>“It was a complete shock,” Walker said. “At first I thought it was a mistake. The Orioles didn’t call first or anything, but maybe a minute later the phone rang and it was (Orioles area scout) John Gillette. I thought, ‘OK, this is legit. Awesome.'”</p>
<p>Being drafted by Baltimore did not come entirely out of left field, Walker said. The organization had shown considerable interest in him throughout his senior season. He talked with Gillette during the Mountain West tournament in Las Vegas, Nev., as well.</p>
<p>Since the draft Walker has been in communication with Orioles personnel on a daily basis. He’s been told that if all goes well in Florida, a trip to Aberdeen, Md. – home of the Single-A Aberdeen IronBirds – could soon follow.</p>
<p>“They told me they’d probably assign me to short-season Single-A ball,” Walker said. “I’m really excited to get started.”</p>
<p>If he is assigned to Aberdeen, Walker will have an opportunity to get more familiar with his new organization. Ripken Stadium, the IronBirds’ home ballpark, is just 26 miles from Baltimore.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“I’ve gotten to like the Orioles lately,” Walker said. “They’ve got some good up-and-coming players and have started being contenders. To be honest, though, Cal Ripken Jr. was the only Orioles player I knew before the last couple years.</p>
<p>“I’ve started doing some research. I don’t want to be completely oblivious about my organization.”</p>
<p>Walker was one of three Lobos drafted this year, joining senior outfielder Chase Harris (Philadelphia Phillies, 14th round) and junior catcher Alex Real (Minnesota Twins, 24th round). The draft basically progressed as UNM coach Ray Birmingham had hoped.</p>
<p>“I felt like the three guys who should’ve been drafted were drafted,” Birmingham said. “Playing pro ball is a dream they all had, and I’m happy to see them get their shot.”</p>
<p>Three recent high school players who have committed to New Mexico also were drafted late Saturday. First baseman/right-handed pitcher Carl Stajduhar of Colorado Springs Rocky Mountain was selected by the Atlanta Braves in the 27th round, RHP James Harrington of Arizona’s Mesquite High went to the Phillies in 33rd round, and catcher Cory Voss of Colorado’s Pueblo South went to the Colorado Rockies in round 34.</p>
<p>Birmingham hopes all three will choose to become Lobos rather than sign pro contracts.</p>
<p>“Most kids coming out of high school will improve their stock if they go to college,” Birmingham said. “Now, if you’re drafted early and get life-changing money, that’s different. But pro ball is hard, and guys drafted in the late rounds trying to work their way up have it even harder. Hopefully, these kids will see that and decide to come be Lobos.”</p>
<p />
<p /> | 599,136 |
|
<p>Military conscription is once again on the national agenda, but neither conservatives nor liberals, neither proponents nor opponents of registration seem interested in confronting the underlying issues of the place of national service in the life of a democratic republic. Thus President Carter linked his draft registration program to a get-tough policy with the Russians, while President Reagan now is satisfied to associate his less enthusiastic position with his vague campaign against big government.</p>
<p /> | A Case for Universal Service | true | https://dissentmagazine.org/article/a-case-for-universal-service | 4left
| A Case for Universal Service
<p>Military conscription is once again on the national agenda, but neither conservatives nor liberals, neither proponents nor opponents of registration seem interested in confronting the underlying issues of the place of national service in the life of a democratic republic. Thus President Carter linked his draft registration program to a get-tough policy with the Russians, while President Reagan now is satisfied to associate his less enthusiastic position with his vague campaign against big government.</p>
<p /> | 599,137 |
|
<p>You’ll enjoy this. Crooks &amp; Liars <a href="http://crooksandliars.com/2015/09/kim-davis-attorney-tries-compare-her-mlk" type="external">has the recap</a>:</p>
<p>Chris Hayes is getting better at dealing with all-out crazy people on his show, but I won’t lie — this is still painful to watch. Liberty Counsel director Mat Staver, who is Kim Davis’ attorney, appeared to cry a river on Hayes’ show over Davis’ continued incarceration. At one point, he attempted to connect Davis’ jailing with Martin Luther King’s Letter from a Birmingham Jail in order to frame her as a martyr for liberty. As I’ve stated elsewhere, the only thing she’s martyring herself for is Holy Billionaires looking to stir up the body politic to elect the likes of Rand Paul to the Senate since he’ll never win the GOP nomination, post Trumpocalypse. No, Kim Davis is not Martin Luther King. Not even close. Moving on then, to the argument for religious liberty, which also fell flat. In the end, it was a simple fundraising question that sent Staver into deep-space orbit. Hayes asked him, “How is your fundraising going these days?” Staver shifted to glassy-eyed fury, first deflecting by asking Hayes whether he’s ever asked the ACLU that question. Defensive much? When you don’t want to answer, obfuscate. He went on that way in a back and forth with Hayes, never answering the question. Of course, the reaction and lack of an answer is an answer in itself.</p>
<p>(Tipped by JMG reader Mike)</p> | Chris Hayes Smacks Down Mat Staver [VIDEO] | true | http://joemygod.com/2015/09/05/msnbcs-chris-hayes-smacks-down-mat-staver-video/ | 2015-09-05 | 4left
| Chris Hayes Smacks Down Mat Staver [VIDEO]
<p>You’ll enjoy this. Crooks &amp; Liars <a href="http://crooksandliars.com/2015/09/kim-davis-attorney-tries-compare-her-mlk" type="external">has the recap</a>:</p>
<p>Chris Hayes is getting better at dealing with all-out crazy people on his show, but I won’t lie — this is still painful to watch. Liberty Counsel director Mat Staver, who is Kim Davis’ attorney, appeared to cry a river on Hayes’ show over Davis’ continued incarceration. At one point, he attempted to connect Davis’ jailing with Martin Luther King’s Letter from a Birmingham Jail in order to frame her as a martyr for liberty. As I’ve stated elsewhere, the only thing she’s martyring herself for is Holy Billionaires looking to stir up the body politic to elect the likes of Rand Paul to the Senate since he’ll never win the GOP nomination, post Trumpocalypse. No, Kim Davis is not Martin Luther King. Not even close. Moving on then, to the argument for religious liberty, which also fell flat. In the end, it was a simple fundraising question that sent Staver into deep-space orbit. Hayes asked him, “How is your fundraising going these days?” Staver shifted to glassy-eyed fury, first deflecting by asking Hayes whether he’s ever asked the ACLU that question. Defensive much? When you don’t want to answer, obfuscate. He went on that way in a back and forth with Hayes, never answering the question. Of course, the reaction and lack of an answer is an answer in itself.</p>
<p>(Tipped by JMG reader Mike)</p> | 599,138 |
<p>One could argue that fear in Israel is an official industry, which the government uses to justify its extremist policies.</p>
<p>Bat-Hen Epstein Elias’s long article on Iranian Jews is interesting. Parts of it, in fact, are heartwarming. Yet, despite the lack of any serious evidence, the story is entirely framed in the language of fear.</p>
<p>Entitled, “All the Jews there live in fear that their telephones are tapped,” <a href="http://www.israelhayom.com/site/newsletter_article.php?id=6065" type="external">the story in ‘Israel Hayom</a>’ peddles the idea that, although Iranian Jews seem generally content with their lives in Iran as an economically-privileged group, somehow, they are still afraid.</p>
<p>Or, perhaps, Israel needs them to be afraid, despite the fact that the Iranian Jews interviewed in the article expressed little or no fear sentiment at all.</p>
<p>One such character is ‘M’, who, like others asserted: “I never felt like I was being attacked because I was Jewish, or that my religious freedom was harmed.”</p>
<p>His narrative seems positive, if not altogether an encouraging model for co-existence.</p>
<p>For example, ‘M’ said: “I have a good friend, a Muslim, who takes care of me. He takes me to the doctor, and even to the movies and the park, and invites me for meals. Everyone is very good to me and helps me. Before I got sick, I had a lot of money. Medications in Iran are good, a little expensive, but they can be obtained with private insurance and government insurance.”</p>
<p>But then, the fear component is purposely pushed by the Israeli journalist with no clear editorial justification.</p>
<p>Referring to ‘M’, Elias wrote, “Like others, (‘M’) is careful when it comes to talking about the political situation, the nuclear program or the fear of an attack.”</p>
<p>Aside from the fact that Israel Hayom serves, along with other Israeli media, as a major platform for fear-mongering, the need to be afraid is a collective phenomenon in Israel, which it insists on imposing on Jewish communities around the world.</p>
<p>One could in fact argue that ‘fear’ in Israel is an official industry. It helps the government justify its military spending; it helps the military justify its wars; and it further cements the rise of rightwing, religious and ultra-nationalist parties, which now together, rule Israel.</p>
<p>In some way, this is an old, yet ongoing story.</p>
<p>When Israel was established in 1948, it called on all Jews to ‘return’ to the Jewish state, for they, allegedly, could not be safe anywhere else. While many Jewish immigrants throughout the years came to Israel seeking economic opportunities, many were compelled by fear.</p>
<p>That mindset has not changed at all. When militants staged several attacks in Paris in January 2015, Israel Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/feb/16/leaders-criticise-netanyahu-calls-jewish-mass-migration-israel" type="external">called on all French Jews</a> to migrate to Israel.</p>
<p>“We say to the Jews, to our brothers and sisters, Israel is your home and that of every Jew. Israel is waiting for you with open arms,” Netanyahu said.</p>
<p>The statement was strongly criticized by French officials. Many were befuddled by such opportunism during one of France’s most difficult moments in many years.</p>
<p>But for Netanyahu, as for past and present Israeli leaders, inciting or capitalizing on Jewish fears is <a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/23455343?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents" type="external">nothing new</a>.</p>
<p>However, peddling fear is now far more sophisticated, and is deeply embedded in the relationship between the state and Israel’s Jewish population. It has been so internalized to the extent that Israel is incapable of seeing the legitimate fears of the Palestinians and is only obsessed with its own self-induced fears.</p>
<p>A particularly telling story was reported in Israeli media earlier this month when Israeli police officers gave a group of elementary school children a demonstration on “how to kill a Palestinian assailant and verify that he is dead.”</p>
<p>True, the event which <a href="https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20170511-israeli-police-show-primary-school-children-how-to-kill-palestinians/" type="external">took place</a> in Ramat HaSharon on May 8 was not welcomed by all parents, but it was, nonetheless, an example of the training in fear that takes place at a very young age.</p>
<p>Commenting on the story, <a href="http://www.jonathan-cook.net/2017-05-15/how-israeli-schools-help-sabotage-peace-prospects/" type="external">Jonathan Cook wrote</a>, “Half of Jewish schoolchildren believe these Palestinians, one in five of the population, should not be allowed to vote in elections.”</p>
<p>This, then, is the desired outcome of such methodology, which is constantly fed by the state. Cook adds, “This month the defense minister, Avigdor Lieberman, called the minority’s representatives in parliament ‘Nazis’ and suggested they should share a similar fate.”</p>
<p>The use of the word ‘Nazis’ is not merely a widely inaccurate depiction, but such terminology is designed to constantly stir past fears to achieve racially-motivated political objectives.</p>
<p>Yes, <a href="http://www.jonathan-cook.net/2017-05-15/how-israeli-schools-help-sabotage-peace-prospects/" type="external">Israelis are manipulated to be very afraid</a>. But unlike occupied and oppressed Palestinians, the Israeli fear is self-induced, an outcome of an inherent sense of collective insecurity that is constantly fed by the government, political parties and official institutions.</p>
<p>Despite Israel’s massive military budget, nuclear arms and territorial expansion at the expense of Palestinians and other Arab neighbors, the sense of insecurity it engenders keeps on growing at the same rapid speed as its military adventures.</p>
<p>It is a vicious cycle.</p>
<p>When Netanyahu, for example, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2012/sep/27/binyamin-netanyahu-cartoon-bomb-un" type="external">drew a red line</a> in a graphic of a bomb during a speech at a United Nations General Assembly session in September 2012, he was, in essence drawing a new parameter of fear for his own society.</p>
<p>Yoav Litvin, a US-based Israeli doctor of Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience, <a href="http://www.counterpunch.org/2017/05/02/independence-on-nakba-day-accountability-and-healing-as-an-israeli-aggressor/" type="external">wrote convincingly</a> on the subject.</p>
<p>His article entitled, “Independence on Nakba Day – Accountability and Healing as an Israeli Aggressor,” critiques the Zionist narrative, explaining how such deeply entrenched ideas of eternal victimization has led to Israel’s current state of permanent aggression and highly militarized society.</p>
<p>“We see that perspective represented by a long line of pro-aggression, exclusivist, expansionist and militaristic Israeli governments that instill and potentiate fear in order to control public opinion and facilitate their political and economic goals,” he wrote.</p>
<p>“In so doing, the Jewish victim narrative, a form of collective Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), sustains the level of aggression and oppression that is a part of daily life in the reality of occupation.”</p>
<p>Writing in Haaretz, <a href="http://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/.premium-1.784269" type="external">Daniel Bar-Tal</a> conveys a similar sentiment. However, for Bar-Tal, the Zionist narrative is itself designed, in part, to accommodate existing beliefs pertaining to a collective Jewish experience.</p>
<p>Bar-Tal rites, “Societal beliefs, vis-à-vis security, in Israel are based on past experience and on information disseminated via various channels and institutions, whether with regard to the conflict with the Palestinians or to relations with other actors in the region.” But equally important, “every member of society is also exposed to the collective memory of the Jewish people, by means of social, educational and cultural institutions.”</p>
<p>The Zionist narrative has purposely molded ‘past experiences’ into new political objectives and an expansionist ideology to harness the perpetual support of the Jewish people, in Israel and elsewhere. It has convinced them that their very survival is dependent on the subjugation of Palestinians.</p>
<p>This vicious cycle has, thus, become an obstacle to any peace that is predicated on justice and respect for international law and human rights.</p>
<p>The Zionist narrative, as championed by Netanyahu and Lieberman has zero margins for inclusiveness, and for that ideology to be maintained, fear in Israel must be infused.</p>
<p>However, the stronghold of fear must be broken.</p>
<p>Litvin courageously writes: “We, as Israelis, must break the parasitic bond that Zionist propaganda has created between the Israeli/Zionist collective narrative (the state) and ourselves so that dissent becomes both legitimate and even patriotic as a means of building an inclusive and just society in Israel/Palestine.”</p>
<p>In fact, there can be no other way.</p> | Fear as an Obstacle to Peace: Why Are Israelis Afraid? | false | https://foreignpolicyjournal.com/2017/05/25/fear-as-an-obstacle-to-peace-why-are-israelis-afraid/ | 2017-05-25 | 1right-center
| Fear as an Obstacle to Peace: Why Are Israelis Afraid?
<p>One could argue that fear in Israel is an official industry, which the government uses to justify its extremist policies.</p>
<p>Bat-Hen Epstein Elias’s long article on Iranian Jews is interesting. Parts of it, in fact, are heartwarming. Yet, despite the lack of any serious evidence, the story is entirely framed in the language of fear.</p>
<p>Entitled, “All the Jews there live in fear that their telephones are tapped,” <a href="http://www.israelhayom.com/site/newsletter_article.php?id=6065" type="external">the story in ‘Israel Hayom</a>’ peddles the idea that, although Iranian Jews seem generally content with their lives in Iran as an economically-privileged group, somehow, they are still afraid.</p>
<p>Or, perhaps, Israel needs them to be afraid, despite the fact that the Iranian Jews interviewed in the article expressed little or no fear sentiment at all.</p>
<p>One such character is ‘M’, who, like others asserted: “I never felt like I was being attacked because I was Jewish, or that my religious freedom was harmed.”</p>
<p>His narrative seems positive, if not altogether an encouraging model for co-existence.</p>
<p>For example, ‘M’ said: “I have a good friend, a Muslim, who takes care of me. He takes me to the doctor, and even to the movies and the park, and invites me for meals. Everyone is very good to me and helps me. Before I got sick, I had a lot of money. Medications in Iran are good, a little expensive, but they can be obtained with private insurance and government insurance.”</p>
<p>But then, the fear component is purposely pushed by the Israeli journalist with no clear editorial justification.</p>
<p>Referring to ‘M’, Elias wrote, “Like others, (‘M’) is careful when it comes to talking about the political situation, the nuclear program or the fear of an attack.”</p>
<p>Aside from the fact that Israel Hayom serves, along with other Israeli media, as a major platform for fear-mongering, the need to be afraid is a collective phenomenon in Israel, which it insists on imposing on Jewish communities around the world.</p>
<p>One could in fact argue that ‘fear’ in Israel is an official industry. It helps the government justify its military spending; it helps the military justify its wars; and it further cements the rise of rightwing, religious and ultra-nationalist parties, which now together, rule Israel.</p>
<p>In some way, this is an old, yet ongoing story.</p>
<p>When Israel was established in 1948, it called on all Jews to ‘return’ to the Jewish state, for they, allegedly, could not be safe anywhere else. While many Jewish immigrants throughout the years came to Israel seeking economic opportunities, many were compelled by fear.</p>
<p>That mindset has not changed at all. When militants staged several attacks in Paris in January 2015, Israel Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/feb/16/leaders-criticise-netanyahu-calls-jewish-mass-migration-israel" type="external">called on all French Jews</a> to migrate to Israel.</p>
<p>“We say to the Jews, to our brothers and sisters, Israel is your home and that of every Jew. Israel is waiting for you with open arms,” Netanyahu said.</p>
<p>The statement was strongly criticized by French officials. Many were befuddled by such opportunism during one of France’s most difficult moments in many years.</p>
<p>But for Netanyahu, as for past and present Israeli leaders, inciting or capitalizing on Jewish fears is <a href="https://www.jstor.org/stable/23455343?seq=1#page_scan_tab_contents" type="external">nothing new</a>.</p>
<p>However, peddling fear is now far more sophisticated, and is deeply embedded in the relationship between the state and Israel’s Jewish population. It has been so internalized to the extent that Israel is incapable of seeing the legitimate fears of the Palestinians and is only obsessed with its own self-induced fears.</p>
<p>A particularly telling story was reported in Israeli media earlier this month when Israeli police officers gave a group of elementary school children a demonstration on “how to kill a Palestinian assailant and verify that he is dead.”</p>
<p>True, the event which <a href="https://www.middleeastmonitor.com/20170511-israeli-police-show-primary-school-children-how-to-kill-palestinians/" type="external">took place</a> in Ramat HaSharon on May 8 was not welcomed by all parents, but it was, nonetheless, an example of the training in fear that takes place at a very young age.</p>
<p>Commenting on the story, <a href="http://www.jonathan-cook.net/2017-05-15/how-israeli-schools-help-sabotage-peace-prospects/" type="external">Jonathan Cook wrote</a>, “Half of Jewish schoolchildren believe these Palestinians, one in five of the population, should not be allowed to vote in elections.”</p>
<p>This, then, is the desired outcome of such methodology, which is constantly fed by the state. Cook adds, “This month the defense minister, Avigdor Lieberman, called the minority’s representatives in parliament ‘Nazis’ and suggested they should share a similar fate.”</p>
<p>The use of the word ‘Nazis’ is not merely a widely inaccurate depiction, but such terminology is designed to constantly stir past fears to achieve racially-motivated political objectives.</p>
<p>Yes, <a href="http://www.jonathan-cook.net/2017-05-15/how-israeli-schools-help-sabotage-peace-prospects/" type="external">Israelis are manipulated to be very afraid</a>. But unlike occupied and oppressed Palestinians, the Israeli fear is self-induced, an outcome of an inherent sense of collective insecurity that is constantly fed by the government, political parties and official institutions.</p>
<p>Despite Israel’s massive military budget, nuclear arms and territorial expansion at the expense of Palestinians and other Arab neighbors, the sense of insecurity it engenders keeps on growing at the same rapid speed as its military adventures.</p>
<p>It is a vicious cycle.</p>
<p>When Netanyahu, for example, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2012/sep/27/binyamin-netanyahu-cartoon-bomb-un" type="external">drew a red line</a> in a graphic of a bomb during a speech at a United Nations General Assembly session in September 2012, he was, in essence drawing a new parameter of fear for his own society.</p>
<p>Yoav Litvin, a US-based Israeli doctor of Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience, <a href="http://www.counterpunch.org/2017/05/02/independence-on-nakba-day-accountability-and-healing-as-an-israeli-aggressor/" type="external">wrote convincingly</a> on the subject.</p>
<p>His article entitled, “Independence on Nakba Day – Accountability and Healing as an Israeli Aggressor,” critiques the Zionist narrative, explaining how such deeply entrenched ideas of eternal victimization has led to Israel’s current state of permanent aggression and highly militarized society.</p>
<p>“We see that perspective represented by a long line of pro-aggression, exclusivist, expansionist and militaristic Israeli governments that instill and potentiate fear in order to control public opinion and facilitate their political and economic goals,” he wrote.</p>
<p>“In so doing, the Jewish victim narrative, a form of collective Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), sustains the level of aggression and oppression that is a part of daily life in the reality of occupation.”</p>
<p>Writing in Haaretz, <a href="http://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/.premium-1.784269" type="external">Daniel Bar-Tal</a> conveys a similar sentiment. However, for Bar-Tal, the Zionist narrative is itself designed, in part, to accommodate existing beliefs pertaining to a collective Jewish experience.</p>
<p>Bar-Tal rites, “Societal beliefs, vis-à-vis security, in Israel are based on past experience and on information disseminated via various channels and institutions, whether with regard to the conflict with the Palestinians or to relations with other actors in the region.” But equally important, “every member of society is also exposed to the collective memory of the Jewish people, by means of social, educational and cultural institutions.”</p>
<p>The Zionist narrative has purposely molded ‘past experiences’ into new political objectives and an expansionist ideology to harness the perpetual support of the Jewish people, in Israel and elsewhere. It has convinced them that their very survival is dependent on the subjugation of Palestinians.</p>
<p>This vicious cycle has, thus, become an obstacle to any peace that is predicated on justice and respect for international law and human rights.</p>
<p>The Zionist narrative, as championed by Netanyahu and Lieberman has zero margins for inclusiveness, and for that ideology to be maintained, fear in Israel must be infused.</p>
<p>However, the stronghold of fear must be broken.</p>
<p>Litvin courageously writes: “We, as Israelis, must break the parasitic bond that Zionist propaganda has created between the Israeli/Zionist collective narrative (the state) and ourselves so that dissent becomes both legitimate and even patriotic as a means of building an inclusive and just society in Israel/Palestine.”</p>
<p>In fact, there can be no other way.</p> | 599,139 |
<p>Investigative Reporters and Editors IRE Awards judges said of the Boston Globe's Catholic Church <a href="http://www.boston.com/globe/spotlight/abuse/" type="external">investigation</a>: "These stories brilliantly documented a powerful institution's inability to police itself, with tragic consequences for its many young victims and ultimately for the church itself." IRE's Tom Renner Award for outstanding crime reporting went to a Chicago Sun-Times team that <a href="http://www.suntimes.com/special_sections/crime/index.html" type="external">followed the money</a> from a $1 billion-a-year drug trade into beauty shops, apartments, record companies and Hollywood movies. (See the <a href="http://www.ire.org/contest/past/02winners.html" type="external">complete list</a> of finalists and winners.) &gt; <a href="http://www.religioncommunicators.org/News/list_of_2003_wilbur_award_winner.htm" type="external">Boston Globe's clergy abuse series wins '03 Wilbur Award (RelCommun)</a></p> | Boston Globe's clergy sex abuse series wins top IRE award | false | https://poynter.org/news/boston-globes-clergy-sex-abuse-series-wins-top-ire-award | 2003-03-20 | 2least
| Boston Globe's clergy sex abuse series wins top IRE award
<p>Investigative Reporters and Editors IRE Awards judges said of the Boston Globe's Catholic Church <a href="http://www.boston.com/globe/spotlight/abuse/" type="external">investigation</a>: "These stories brilliantly documented a powerful institution's inability to police itself, with tragic consequences for its many young victims and ultimately for the church itself." IRE's Tom Renner Award for outstanding crime reporting went to a Chicago Sun-Times team that <a href="http://www.suntimes.com/special_sections/crime/index.html" type="external">followed the money</a> from a $1 billion-a-year drug trade into beauty shops, apartments, record companies and Hollywood movies. (See the <a href="http://www.ire.org/contest/past/02winners.html" type="external">complete list</a> of finalists and winners.) &gt; <a href="http://www.religioncommunicators.org/News/list_of_2003_wilbur_award_winner.htm" type="external">Boston Globe's clergy abuse series wins '03 Wilbur Award (RelCommun)</a></p> | 599,140 |
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>The Santa Fe District Attorney’s Office says it will appeal the judge’s order to the state Supreme Court, where appeals on first-degree murder counts must be filed.</p>
<p>Nicholas Ortiz</p>
<p>Nicholas Ortiz, 22, was convicted of killing Lloyd Ortiz, 55, Dixie Ortiz, 53, and their special needs son Steven Ortiz, 21, at their home north of Santa Fe in the early morning hours of June 19, 2011, after his second trial in December.</p>
<p>Nicholas Ortiz, whose first trial in June last year ended with a hung jury, was not related to the victims, but had stayed with their adult daughter next door.</p>
<p>Ortiz’s attorney, Dan Marlowe, filed a motion asking for a new trial in July, citing errors in the jury instructions, as well as the discovery of new evidence. One issue was whether the jury instructions regarding Ortiz’s murder counts failed to address whether there had been any provocation for the killings.</p>
<p>State District Judge Francis Mathew, who has overseen the Ortiz trials, granted the motion Aug. 8, overturning the murder convictions, because a “fundamental error was committed by the failure of the jury instructions to instruct the jury in any fashion concerning the lack of sufficient provocation as an element of felony murder,” according to a court document filed this week.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“A trial court’s failure to properly instruct on all the essential elements of a crime constitutes fundamental error requiring a reversal,” the judge found.</p>
<p>Provocation is defined in the Uniform Jury Instructions as “any action, conduct or circumstances which arouse anger, rage, fear, sudden resentment, or other extreme emotions. The provocation must be such as would affect the ability to reason and to cause a temporary loss of self control in an ordinary person of average disposition.”</p>
<p>Deputy District Attorney Susan Stinson said she couldn’t say much about the case because it’s still active, but that an appeal of the ruling is going to be filed with the Supreme Court within the next 30 days. Prosecutors argued that Nicholas Ortiz conspired with first cousins Jose Roybal and Ashley Roybal to burglarize the Ortiz house. Jose Roybal testified that he ran home after Nicholas went into the home by himself and killed the Ortizes. Lloyd Ortiz was found dead in his backyard, Dixie Ortiz died in her bed and Steven was killed in the kitchen after a struggle.</p>
<p>Mathew also vacated an aggravated burglary conviction because there was no evidence that anything was stolen from the home.</p>
<p /> | Judge: Jury instructions spoiled triple-homicide convictions | false | https://abqjournal.com/1063813/alleged-pickax-killer-may-get-third-trial-ex-attorney-says-jury-did-not-get-crucial-information-during-previous-trial.html | 2017-09-15 | 2least
| Judge: Jury instructions spoiled triple-homicide convictions
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>The Santa Fe District Attorney’s Office says it will appeal the judge’s order to the state Supreme Court, where appeals on first-degree murder counts must be filed.</p>
<p>Nicholas Ortiz</p>
<p>Nicholas Ortiz, 22, was convicted of killing Lloyd Ortiz, 55, Dixie Ortiz, 53, and their special needs son Steven Ortiz, 21, at their home north of Santa Fe in the early morning hours of June 19, 2011, after his second trial in December.</p>
<p>Nicholas Ortiz, whose first trial in June last year ended with a hung jury, was not related to the victims, but had stayed with their adult daughter next door.</p>
<p>Ortiz’s attorney, Dan Marlowe, filed a motion asking for a new trial in July, citing errors in the jury instructions, as well as the discovery of new evidence. One issue was whether the jury instructions regarding Ortiz’s murder counts failed to address whether there had been any provocation for the killings.</p>
<p>State District Judge Francis Mathew, who has overseen the Ortiz trials, granted the motion Aug. 8, overturning the murder convictions, because a “fundamental error was committed by the failure of the jury instructions to instruct the jury in any fashion concerning the lack of sufficient provocation as an element of felony murder,” according to a court document filed this week.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“A trial court’s failure to properly instruct on all the essential elements of a crime constitutes fundamental error requiring a reversal,” the judge found.</p>
<p>Provocation is defined in the Uniform Jury Instructions as “any action, conduct or circumstances which arouse anger, rage, fear, sudden resentment, or other extreme emotions. The provocation must be such as would affect the ability to reason and to cause a temporary loss of self control in an ordinary person of average disposition.”</p>
<p>Deputy District Attorney Susan Stinson said she couldn’t say much about the case because it’s still active, but that an appeal of the ruling is going to be filed with the Supreme Court within the next 30 days. Prosecutors argued that Nicholas Ortiz conspired with first cousins Jose Roybal and Ashley Roybal to burglarize the Ortiz house. Jose Roybal testified that he ran home after Nicholas went into the home by himself and killed the Ortizes. Lloyd Ortiz was found dead in his backyard, Dixie Ortiz died in her bed and Steven was killed in the kitchen after a struggle.</p>
<p>Mathew also vacated an aggravated burglary conviction because there was no evidence that anything was stolen from the home.</p>
<p /> | 599,141 |
<p>We all know the narrative that has consumed the liberal media since last year: the President and his surrogates are in bed with the Kremlin.</p>
<p>For months, 90 percent of CNN’s airtime has centered on Russia — despite private admissions by top affiliates the collusion story is a “nothing burger.” Last week, the network had a field day when it learned campaign officials sat in on an innocuous meeting with a Russian lawyer.</p>
<p>When the media found out the president of the United States took a second meeting with the president of Russia at the G20 summit — the purpose of which is, by definition, for leaders of member countries to meet — their minds nearly exploded. They conveniently failed to clarify the Chancellor of Germany had invited all G-20 attendees to said meeting.</p>
<p>Donald Trump, Jr. and former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort are testifying Wednesday before the Senate Intelligence Committee. Jared Kushner, the president’s son-in-law and one of his senior advisors, gave testimony&#160;to a closed session and&#160;remarks Monday. Despite what anyone has said or will say, liberals are in frenzy-mode trying to point fingers to Moscow rather than accepting, as Kushner said, Trump offered a better message and ran a better campaign than his opponent.</p>
<p>But last week, President Donald&#160;Trump did serious damage to the narrative put forth by the boys and girls who cried collusion with one fell swoop. His selection of Governor Jon Huntsman for Ambassador to Russia makes one thing crystal clear: The United States will not be weak in its policy toward the Kremlin.</p>
<p>Huntsman, one of Utah’s most popular governors in the state’s history, served as Ambassador to China under Obama and Ambassador to Singapore under the younger President George W.&#160;Bush. He currently leads the Atlantic Council, an international affairs think tank. He is no novice to diplomacy. And he is no dove.</p>
<p>This appointment is a political victory for Trump, and it should go a long way to dissuade any reasonable or unreasonable fears on the left. Huntsman is not tied to Trump or any of his loyalists, which will allow him to execute on the president’s agenda while also maintaining some distance from the inner workings of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.</p>
<p>Huntsman has a track record of being tough on human rights violations in China, and he has been equally critical of Russian transgressions. In the spring of 2014, after Russia’s annexation of Crimea — a move denounced by leaders across the globe — Huntsman delivered an address before an Atlantic Council panel, in which he blasted President Vladimir Putin for “reject[ing] a vision that Moscow previously shared: an undivided, free Europe in which Russia would find its peaceful, rightful place.”&#160;</p>
<p>Let us not forget, just five years before Russian aggression in Ukraine reached crisis level, then-Secretary Hillary Clinton had offered to “reset” the United States’ relationship with the Kremlin (rather than “resetting,” however, Clinton mistakenly gave Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov a plastic button that translated to “overcharged”).</p>
<p>Having worked under presidents from both sides of the aisle, Huntsman serves with a true servant’s heart in this most sensitive of diplomatic posts. President Trump’s judgment in making this appointment should be applauded and should address any reasonable concerns on how his administration seeks to deal with Putin and Russia. America’s interests will be served well by a seasoned diplomat like Jon Huntsman.</p>
<p>American can all rest more easily with Jon Huntsman on the watch.</p>
<p>Edward J. Pozzuoli is the CEO of Florida-based law firm Tripp Scott. He was the co-chairman of Jeb Bush for Governor (Broward Country). He also served as an integral member of the Bush/Cheney legal team in the 2000 presidential recount litigation. He is an active member of the Republican Party and served as the chairman of the Republican Party in Broward County, Florida.</p> | Huntsman Choice Means Trump Will Not Be Weak on Russia | false | https://newsline.com/huntsman-choice-means-trump-will-not-be-weak-on-russia/ | 2017-07-25 | 1right-center
| Huntsman Choice Means Trump Will Not Be Weak on Russia
<p>We all know the narrative that has consumed the liberal media since last year: the President and his surrogates are in bed with the Kremlin.</p>
<p>For months, 90 percent of CNN’s airtime has centered on Russia — despite private admissions by top affiliates the collusion story is a “nothing burger.” Last week, the network had a field day when it learned campaign officials sat in on an innocuous meeting with a Russian lawyer.</p>
<p>When the media found out the president of the United States took a second meeting with the president of Russia at the G20 summit — the purpose of which is, by definition, for leaders of member countries to meet — their minds nearly exploded. They conveniently failed to clarify the Chancellor of Germany had invited all G-20 attendees to said meeting.</p>
<p>Donald Trump, Jr. and former Trump campaign manager Paul Manafort are testifying Wednesday before the Senate Intelligence Committee. Jared Kushner, the president’s son-in-law and one of his senior advisors, gave testimony&#160;to a closed session and&#160;remarks Monday. Despite what anyone has said or will say, liberals are in frenzy-mode trying to point fingers to Moscow rather than accepting, as Kushner said, Trump offered a better message and ran a better campaign than his opponent.</p>
<p>But last week, President Donald&#160;Trump did serious damage to the narrative put forth by the boys and girls who cried collusion with one fell swoop. His selection of Governor Jon Huntsman for Ambassador to Russia makes one thing crystal clear: The United States will not be weak in its policy toward the Kremlin.</p>
<p>Huntsman, one of Utah’s most popular governors in the state’s history, served as Ambassador to China under Obama and Ambassador to Singapore under the younger President George W.&#160;Bush. He currently leads the Atlantic Council, an international affairs think tank. He is no novice to diplomacy. And he is no dove.</p>
<p>This appointment is a political victory for Trump, and it should go a long way to dissuade any reasonable or unreasonable fears on the left. Huntsman is not tied to Trump or any of his loyalists, which will allow him to execute on the president’s agenda while also maintaining some distance from the inner workings of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.</p>
<p>Huntsman has a track record of being tough on human rights violations in China, and he has been equally critical of Russian transgressions. In the spring of 2014, after Russia’s annexation of Crimea — a move denounced by leaders across the globe — Huntsman delivered an address before an Atlantic Council panel, in which he blasted President Vladimir Putin for “reject[ing] a vision that Moscow previously shared: an undivided, free Europe in which Russia would find its peaceful, rightful place.”&#160;</p>
<p>Let us not forget, just five years before Russian aggression in Ukraine reached crisis level, then-Secretary Hillary Clinton had offered to “reset” the United States’ relationship with the Kremlin (rather than “resetting,” however, Clinton mistakenly gave Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov a plastic button that translated to “overcharged”).</p>
<p>Having worked under presidents from both sides of the aisle, Huntsman serves with a true servant’s heart in this most sensitive of diplomatic posts. President Trump’s judgment in making this appointment should be applauded and should address any reasonable concerns on how his administration seeks to deal with Putin and Russia. America’s interests will be served well by a seasoned diplomat like Jon Huntsman.</p>
<p>American can all rest more easily with Jon Huntsman on the watch.</p>
<p>Edward J. Pozzuoli is the CEO of Florida-based law firm Tripp Scott. He was the co-chairman of Jeb Bush for Governor (Broward Country). He also served as an integral member of the Bush/Cheney legal team in the 2000 presidential recount litigation. He is an active member of the Republican Party and served as the chairman of the Republican Party in Broward County, Florida.</p> | 599,142 |
<p>Here’s how critical Philadelphia’s game at Dallas will be on Thanksgiving Day: The winner can start thinking about a home postseason game, maybe even a bye for the wild-card round. The loser winds up needing to win the rematch in 17 days to be viable in the NFC East.</p>
<p>A sweep by either the Eagles or Cowboys, both 8-3, makes that team a contender for top record in the conference. It also puts the loser in a scrambling position just to make the postseason.</p>
<p>A juicy serving, no doubt, with the Cowboys (No. 5, AP Pro32) a 3-point favorite over the Eagles (No. 6, AP Pro32).</p>
<p>“Now, it’s all about Dallas,” Eagles linebacker Trent Cole says. “If you can’t get excited for this game, you shouldn’t be playing football.”</p>
<p>The Cowboys actually have a slight disadvantage in that they were on the road last Sunday night, beating the Giants. Philly was home in the afternoon and defeated Tennessee.</p>
<p>“I think the excitement and adrenaline can override how tired you are,” tight end Jason Witten says. “It’s a great opportunity for us. You can’t worry about anything else. Just get through it and move forward.”</p>
<p>Dallas will move forward, barely.</p>
<p>COWBOYS, 30-28</p>
<p>No. 22 New Orleans (plus 3) at No. 12 (tie) Pittsburgh</p>
<p>This one jumped out at us. If Saints can lose three straight at home, then what shot do they have in Steel City?</p>
<p>BEST BET: STEELERS, 33-24</p>
<p>No. 1 New England (plus 3 1-2) at No. 2 Green Bay</p>
<p>Same thing Pro Picks said two weeks ago: Patriots are underdogs, then they are ...</p>
<p>UPSET SPECIAL: Patriots, 31-26</p>
<p>No. 7 Seattle (plus 1) at No. 9 San Francisco, Thursday</p>
<p>Very important conference and division game sure to get nasty in prime time.</p>
<p>49ERS, 20-17</p>
<p>No. 20 (tie) Chicago (plus 7) at No. 14 Detroit, Thursday</p>
<p>Lions exposed in past two weeks. Bears exposed all season.</p>
<p>LIONS, 23-20</p>
<p>No. 3 Denver (minus 1) at No. 10 (tie) Kansas City</p>
<p>Intriguing Sunday night matchup that Chiefs might have been looking ahead to last week.</p>
<p>BRONCOS, 27-24</p>
<p>No. 15 Miami (minus 5 1-2) at No. 30 New York Jets, Monday night</p>
<p>We learned a lesson last Monday: avoid the Jets at all costs.</p>
<p>DOLPHINS, 27-6</p>
<p>No. 29 Washington (plus 9 1-2) at No. 10 (tie) Indianapolis</p>
<p>No Andrew Luck vs. RG3 with Colt McCoy in for Redskins. No matter.</p>
<p>COLTS, 31-16</p>
<p>No. 4 Arizona (minus 2 1-2) at No. 23 Atlanta</p>
<p>Two first-place teams; wonders never cease. Cardinals rebound from loss to Seahawks.</p>
<p>CARDINALS, 20-16</p>
<p>No. 17 San Diego (plus 4 1-2) at No. 12 (tie) Baltimore</p>
<p>Ravens’ toughest remaining game.</p>
<p>RAVENS, 23-17</p>
<p>No. 16 Cleveland (plus 3) at No. 18 Buffalo</p>
<p>Bills came together after horrific weather. They can handle Browns in tight one.</p>
<p>BILLS, 21-20</p>
<p>No. 25 New York Giants (minus 2 1-2) at No. 32 Jacksonville</p>
<p>Giants need lowest-ranked NFL opponent to break six-game slide.</p>
<p>GIANTS, 22-17</p>
<p>No. 10 (tie) Cincinnati (minus 4) at No. 27 Tampa Bay</p>
<p>After some stumbles, Bengals looking like a contender again.</p>
<p>BENGALS, 24-21</p>
<p>No. 26 Carolina (plus 2 1-2) at No. 24 Minnesota</p>
<p>After many stumbles, Panthers not looking like contender despite horrid NFC South.</p>
<p>VIKINGS, 23-20</p>
<p>No. 31 Oakland (plus 7) at No. 20 (tie) St. Louis</p>
<p>With their first victory in their pockets, Raiders go for a winning streak. Nah.</p>
<p>RAMS, 26-16</p>
<p>No. 28 Tennessee (plus 6 1-2) at No. 19 Houston</p>
<p>Former Houston occupants go back to get spanked. Well, beaten in a close one.</p>
<p>TEXANS, 23-20</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>2014 RECORD: Against spread: This week (6-9); Season (83-86-4). Straight up: This week (11-4); Season (116-58-1)</p>
<p>Best Bet: 5-7 against spread, 7-5 straight up.</p>
<p>Upset special: 7-5 against spread, 5-7 straight up.</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL</p>
<p>Here’s how critical Philadelphia’s game at Dallas will be on Thanksgiving Day: The winner can start thinking about a home postseason game, maybe even a bye for the wild-card round. The loser winds up needing to win the rematch in 17 days to be viable in the NFC East.</p>
<p>A sweep by either the Eagles or Cowboys, both 8-3, makes that team a contender for top record in the conference. It also puts the loser in a scrambling position just to make the postseason.</p>
<p>A juicy serving, no doubt, with the Cowboys (No. 5, AP Pro32) a 3-point favorite over the Eagles (No. 6, AP Pro32).</p>
<p>“Now, it’s all about Dallas,” Eagles linebacker Trent Cole says. “If you can’t get excited for this game, you shouldn’t be playing football.”</p>
<p>The Cowboys actually have a slight disadvantage in that they were on the road last Sunday night, beating the Giants. Philly was home in the afternoon and defeated Tennessee.</p>
<p>“I think the excitement and adrenaline can override how tired you are,” tight end Jason Witten says. “It’s a great opportunity for us. You can’t worry about anything else. Just get through it and move forward.”</p>
<p>Dallas will move forward, barely.</p>
<p>COWBOYS, 30-28</p>
<p>No. 22 New Orleans (plus 3) at No. 12 (tie) Pittsburgh</p>
<p>This one jumped out at us. If Saints can lose three straight at home, then what shot do they have in Steel City?</p>
<p>BEST BET: STEELERS, 33-24</p>
<p>No. 1 New England (plus 3 1-2) at No. 2 Green Bay</p>
<p>Same thing Pro Picks said two weeks ago: Patriots are underdogs, then they are ...</p>
<p>UPSET SPECIAL: Patriots, 31-26</p>
<p>No. 7 Seattle (plus 1) at No. 9 San Francisco, Thursday</p>
<p>Very important conference and division game sure to get nasty in prime time.</p>
<p>49ERS, 20-17</p>
<p>No. 20 (tie) Chicago (plus 7) at No. 14 Detroit, Thursday</p>
<p>Lions exposed in past two weeks. Bears exposed all season.</p>
<p>LIONS, 23-20</p>
<p>No. 3 Denver (minus 1) at No. 10 (tie) Kansas City</p>
<p>Intriguing Sunday night matchup that Chiefs might have been looking ahead to last week.</p>
<p>BRONCOS, 27-24</p>
<p>No. 15 Miami (minus 5 1-2) at No. 30 New York Jets, Monday night</p>
<p>We learned a lesson last Monday: avoid the Jets at all costs.</p>
<p>DOLPHINS, 27-6</p>
<p>No. 29 Washington (plus 9 1-2) at No. 10 (tie) Indianapolis</p>
<p>No Andrew Luck vs. RG3 with Colt McCoy in for Redskins. No matter.</p>
<p>COLTS, 31-16</p>
<p>No. 4 Arizona (minus 2 1-2) at No. 23 Atlanta</p>
<p>Two first-place teams; wonders never cease. Cardinals rebound from loss to Seahawks.</p>
<p>CARDINALS, 20-16</p>
<p>No. 17 San Diego (plus 4 1-2) at No. 12 (tie) Baltimore</p>
<p>Ravens’ toughest remaining game.</p>
<p>RAVENS, 23-17</p>
<p>No. 16 Cleveland (plus 3) at No. 18 Buffalo</p>
<p>Bills came together after horrific weather. They can handle Browns in tight one.</p>
<p>BILLS, 21-20</p>
<p>No. 25 New York Giants (minus 2 1-2) at No. 32 Jacksonville</p>
<p>Giants need lowest-ranked NFL opponent to break six-game slide.</p>
<p>GIANTS, 22-17</p>
<p>No. 10 (tie) Cincinnati (minus 4) at No. 27 Tampa Bay</p>
<p>After some stumbles, Bengals looking like a contender again.</p>
<p>BENGALS, 24-21</p>
<p>No. 26 Carolina (plus 2 1-2) at No. 24 Minnesota</p>
<p>After many stumbles, Panthers not looking like contender despite horrid NFC South.</p>
<p>VIKINGS, 23-20</p>
<p>No. 31 Oakland (plus 7) at No. 20 (tie) St. Louis</p>
<p>With their first victory in their pockets, Raiders go for a winning streak. Nah.</p>
<p>RAMS, 26-16</p>
<p>No. 28 Tennessee (plus 6 1-2) at No. 19 Houston</p>
<p>Former Houston occupants go back to get spanked. Well, beaten in a close one.</p>
<p>TEXANS, 23-20</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>2014 RECORD: Against spread: This week (6-9); Season (83-86-4). Straight up: This week (11-4); Season (116-58-1)</p>
<p>Best Bet: 5-7 against spread, 7-5 straight up.</p>
<p>Upset special: 7-5 against spread, 5-7 straight up.</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL</p> | Juicy Thanksgiving fare for NFL fans | false | https://apnews.com/00737b3d3c49476c93d73502ad832d17 | 2014-11-26 | 2least
| Juicy Thanksgiving fare for NFL fans
<p>Here’s how critical Philadelphia’s game at Dallas will be on Thanksgiving Day: The winner can start thinking about a home postseason game, maybe even a bye for the wild-card round. The loser winds up needing to win the rematch in 17 days to be viable in the NFC East.</p>
<p>A sweep by either the Eagles or Cowboys, both 8-3, makes that team a contender for top record in the conference. It also puts the loser in a scrambling position just to make the postseason.</p>
<p>A juicy serving, no doubt, with the Cowboys (No. 5, AP Pro32) a 3-point favorite over the Eagles (No. 6, AP Pro32).</p>
<p>“Now, it’s all about Dallas,” Eagles linebacker Trent Cole says. “If you can’t get excited for this game, you shouldn’t be playing football.”</p>
<p>The Cowboys actually have a slight disadvantage in that they were on the road last Sunday night, beating the Giants. Philly was home in the afternoon and defeated Tennessee.</p>
<p>“I think the excitement and adrenaline can override how tired you are,” tight end Jason Witten says. “It’s a great opportunity for us. You can’t worry about anything else. Just get through it and move forward.”</p>
<p>Dallas will move forward, barely.</p>
<p>COWBOYS, 30-28</p>
<p>No. 22 New Orleans (plus 3) at No. 12 (tie) Pittsburgh</p>
<p>This one jumped out at us. If Saints can lose three straight at home, then what shot do they have in Steel City?</p>
<p>BEST BET: STEELERS, 33-24</p>
<p>No. 1 New England (plus 3 1-2) at No. 2 Green Bay</p>
<p>Same thing Pro Picks said two weeks ago: Patriots are underdogs, then they are ...</p>
<p>UPSET SPECIAL: Patriots, 31-26</p>
<p>No. 7 Seattle (plus 1) at No. 9 San Francisco, Thursday</p>
<p>Very important conference and division game sure to get nasty in prime time.</p>
<p>49ERS, 20-17</p>
<p>No. 20 (tie) Chicago (plus 7) at No. 14 Detroit, Thursday</p>
<p>Lions exposed in past two weeks. Bears exposed all season.</p>
<p>LIONS, 23-20</p>
<p>No. 3 Denver (minus 1) at No. 10 (tie) Kansas City</p>
<p>Intriguing Sunday night matchup that Chiefs might have been looking ahead to last week.</p>
<p>BRONCOS, 27-24</p>
<p>No. 15 Miami (minus 5 1-2) at No. 30 New York Jets, Monday night</p>
<p>We learned a lesson last Monday: avoid the Jets at all costs.</p>
<p>DOLPHINS, 27-6</p>
<p>No. 29 Washington (plus 9 1-2) at No. 10 (tie) Indianapolis</p>
<p>No Andrew Luck vs. RG3 with Colt McCoy in for Redskins. No matter.</p>
<p>COLTS, 31-16</p>
<p>No. 4 Arizona (minus 2 1-2) at No. 23 Atlanta</p>
<p>Two first-place teams; wonders never cease. Cardinals rebound from loss to Seahawks.</p>
<p>CARDINALS, 20-16</p>
<p>No. 17 San Diego (plus 4 1-2) at No. 12 (tie) Baltimore</p>
<p>Ravens’ toughest remaining game.</p>
<p>RAVENS, 23-17</p>
<p>No. 16 Cleveland (plus 3) at No. 18 Buffalo</p>
<p>Bills came together after horrific weather. They can handle Browns in tight one.</p>
<p>BILLS, 21-20</p>
<p>No. 25 New York Giants (minus 2 1-2) at No. 32 Jacksonville</p>
<p>Giants need lowest-ranked NFL opponent to break six-game slide.</p>
<p>GIANTS, 22-17</p>
<p>No. 10 (tie) Cincinnati (minus 4) at No. 27 Tampa Bay</p>
<p>After some stumbles, Bengals looking like a contender again.</p>
<p>BENGALS, 24-21</p>
<p>No. 26 Carolina (plus 2 1-2) at No. 24 Minnesota</p>
<p>After many stumbles, Panthers not looking like contender despite horrid NFC South.</p>
<p>VIKINGS, 23-20</p>
<p>No. 31 Oakland (plus 7) at No. 20 (tie) St. Louis</p>
<p>With their first victory in their pockets, Raiders go for a winning streak. Nah.</p>
<p>RAMS, 26-16</p>
<p>No. 28 Tennessee (plus 6 1-2) at No. 19 Houston</p>
<p>Former Houston occupants go back to get spanked. Well, beaten in a close one.</p>
<p>TEXANS, 23-20</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>2014 RECORD: Against spread: This week (6-9); Season (83-86-4). Straight up: This week (11-4); Season (116-58-1)</p>
<p>Best Bet: 5-7 against spread, 7-5 straight up.</p>
<p>Upset special: 7-5 against spread, 5-7 straight up.</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL</p>
<p>Here’s how critical Philadelphia’s game at Dallas will be on Thanksgiving Day: The winner can start thinking about a home postseason game, maybe even a bye for the wild-card round. The loser winds up needing to win the rematch in 17 days to be viable in the NFC East.</p>
<p>A sweep by either the Eagles or Cowboys, both 8-3, makes that team a contender for top record in the conference. It also puts the loser in a scrambling position just to make the postseason.</p>
<p>A juicy serving, no doubt, with the Cowboys (No. 5, AP Pro32) a 3-point favorite over the Eagles (No. 6, AP Pro32).</p>
<p>“Now, it’s all about Dallas,” Eagles linebacker Trent Cole says. “If you can’t get excited for this game, you shouldn’t be playing football.”</p>
<p>The Cowboys actually have a slight disadvantage in that they were on the road last Sunday night, beating the Giants. Philly was home in the afternoon and defeated Tennessee.</p>
<p>“I think the excitement and adrenaline can override how tired you are,” tight end Jason Witten says. “It’s a great opportunity for us. You can’t worry about anything else. Just get through it and move forward.”</p>
<p>Dallas will move forward, barely.</p>
<p>COWBOYS, 30-28</p>
<p>No. 22 New Orleans (plus 3) at No. 12 (tie) Pittsburgh</p>
<p>This one jumped out at us. If Saints can lose three straight at home, then what shot do they have in Steel City?</p>
<p>BEST BET: STEELERS, 33-24</p>
<p>No. 1 New England (plus 3 1-2) at No. 2 Green Bay</p>
<p>Same thing Pro Picks said two weeks ago: Patriots are underdogs, then they are ...</p>
<p>UPSET SPECIAL: Patriots, 31-26</p>
<p>No. 7 Seattle (plus 1) at No. 9 San Francisco, Thursday</p>
<p>Very important conference and division game sure to get nasty in prime time.</p>
<p>49ERS, 20-17</p>
<p>No. 20 (tie) Chicago (plus 7) at No. 14 Detroit, Thursday</p>
<p>Lions exposed in past two weeks. Bears exposed all season.</p>
<p>LIONS, 23-20</p>
<p>No. 3 Denver (minus 1) at No. 10 (tie) Kansas City</p>
<p>Intriguing Sunday night matchup that Chiefs might have been looking ahead to last week.</p>
<p>BRONCOS, 27-24</p>
<p>No. 15 Miami (minus 5 1-2) at No. 30 New York Jets, Monday night</p>
<p>We learned a lesson last Monday: avoid the Jets at all costs.</p>
<p>DOLPHINS, 27-6</p>
<p>No. 29 Washington (plus 9 1-2) at No. 10 (tie) Indianapolis</p>
<p>No Andrew Luck vs. RG3 with Colt McCoy in for Redskins. No matter.</p>
<p>COLTS, 31-16</p>
<p>No. 4 Arizona (minus 2 1-2) at No. 23 Atlanta</p>
<p>Two first-place teams; wonders never cease. Cardinals rebound from loss to Seahawks.</p>
<p>CARDINALS, 20-16</p>
<p>No. 17 San Diego (plus 4 1-2) at No. 12 (tie) Baltimore</p>
<p>Ravens’ toughest remaining game.</p>
<p>RAVENS, 23-17</p>
<p>No. 16 Cleveland (plus 3) at No. 18 Buffalo</p>
<p>Bills came together after horrific weather. They can handle Browns in tight one.</p>
<p>BILLS, 21-20</p>
<p>No. 25 New York Giants (minus 2 1-2) at No. 32 Jacksonville</p>
<p>Giants need lowest-ranked NFL opponent to break six-game slide.</p>
<p>GIANTS, 22-17</p>
<p>No. 10 (tie) Cincinnati (minus 4) at No. 27 Tampa Bay</p>
<p>After some stumbles, Bengals looking like a contender again.</p>
<p>BENGALS, 24-21</p>
<p>No. 26 Carolina (plus 2 1-2) at No. 24 Minnesota</p>
<p>After many stumbles, Panthers not looking like contender despite horrid NFC South.</p>
<p>VIKINGS, 23-20</p>
<p>No. 31 Oakland (plus 7) at No. 20 (tie) St. Louis</p>
<p>With their first victory in their pockets, Raiders go for a winning streak. Nah.</p>
<p>RAMS, 26-16</p>
<p>No. 28 Tennessee (plus 6 1-2) at No. 19 Houston</p>
<p>Former Houston occupants go back to get spanked. Well, beaten in a close one.</p>
<p>TEXANS, 23-20</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>2014 RECORD: Against spread: This week (6-9); Season (83-86-4). Straight up: This week (11-4); Season (116-58-1)</p>
<p>Best Bet: 5-7 against spread, 7-5 straight up.</p>
<p>Upset special: 7-5 against spread, 5-7 straight up.</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>AP NFL website: www.pro32.ap.org and www.twitter.com/AP_NFL</p> | 599,143 |
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>“When I saw it on the phone, (I thought), ‘Well, no, it can’t be,'” said Higinio Salazar, a security guard who spent the past five months logging traffic into and out of the site and hoped to have steady work for months to come. “It was on orders of Mr. Trump,” he said bitterly.</p>
<p>That was not the case, Ford insists, but the perception here in Mexico’s burgeoning auto assembly region was largely that President-elect Donald Trump, who had promised for months to bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. while at the same time disparaging Mexicans, had made good before even settling into the White House. Trump took a shot at Toyota on Thursday over its move to make Corollas in this region, though the Japanese company defended its plan.</p>
<p>Ford’s announcement sent shockwaves across Mexico, which has become tightly meshed with the U.S. economy since the advent of the North American Free Trade Agreement, sending 80 percent of its $532 billion in exports across the border in 2015. The U.S. government says $100 billion of that was in vehicles and parts, making Mexico the biggest exporter of automotive products to the United States. Mexico’s auto plants now account for 20 percent of all light vehicles built in North America, industry figures say.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>State officials in San Luis Potosi did not find out much earlier than Salazar that plans had been scrapped for the long-awaited plant, which promised 2,800 direct jobs and more than 10,000 indirect ones through Ford’s supply chain. State Economic Development Secretary Gustavo Puente Orozco said Ford told state officials about an hour before CEO Mark Fields made the announcement Tuesday.</p>
<p>Puente said Ford made very clear it was a “definitive cancellation,” citing supply and demand rather than politics.</p>
<p>“They told us that it was a market issue — the issue that the Ford Focus that was the vehicle they thought to build, this light vehicle they planned to build in San Luis Potosi, they say the demand had dropped,” Puente said.</p>
<p>Low gas prices have Americans turning again to larger vehicles and Focus sales have fallen victim to that trend. Fields said Ford will produce the Focus at an existing plant in Hermosillo, Mexico, and use some of the savings to invest $700 million in an existing Michigan plant to make hybrid, electric and autonomous vehicles.</p>
<p>The San Luis Potosi plant was well past the theoretical stage and there were high hopes the state would see further economic growth from the opening of its third auto plant — General Motors Corp. has been producing the small Aveo and Trax vehicles up the road since 2008 and a BMW plant nearby is scheduled to begin production in early 2019.</p>
<p>The steel bones of Ford’s plant had begun to rise and signs designated the future spots for each part of the operation, from “stamping” to “final warehouse.”</p>
<p>On Wednesday, Fernando Rosales Ortuno, who deals in hydraulic hoses for Parker Hannifin Corp. was pacing the site’s perimeter with cellphone pressed to his ear trying to arrange for a trailer to get hauled away. It’s essentially a portable store that had been set up to service the big machines preparing the site.</p>
<p>He had hoped that once Ford was up and running, the plant might become a long-term client.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“It hit us like a bucket of cold water,” Rosales said. “Everyone here was hoping for a lot of growth in the state and this region, too.”</p>
<p>Four clustered states in central Mexico — San Luis Potosi, Queretaro, Aguascalientes and Guanajuato — have seven auto assembly plants that are operating or will be within the next two years. Around them are nearly 800 auto parts suppliers, Puente said.</p>
<p>In San Luis Potosi alone, between 50,000 and 60,000 jobs depend on the auto industry. An average worker in Mexico costs automakers $8 an hour, including wages and benefits, compared to the $60 an hour that Ford said it was spending on an auto worker in the U.S. at the end of 2015.</p>
<p>In Villa de Reyes’ town square, residents said the younger generation would be hurt most by the cancellation.</p>
<p>Retiree Ignacio Segura Rocha said fewer people from town are migrating to the U.S. now because the crossing has gotten harder than when he went in 1977 and 1978. He said the auto industry offers good alternatives for kids growing up on the region’s isolated ranches.</p>
<p>“They were already dreaming of going there (to Ford), and at the last minute there’s nothing,” he said.</p>
<p>Construction worker J. Refugio Waldo Contreras feels Trump is putting Mexicans in an impossible situation.</p>
<p>“This Trump, he doesn’t want people there, so where is he going to send them?” Contreras asked. “And he doesn’t want work to open here? So then he’s going to close the doors.”</p>
<p>Trump also sent tweets this week threatening to impose heavy tariffs on General Motors and Toyota cars produced in Mexico for the U.S. market. GM said it exports only a small number of Cruze hatchbacks it makes in Mexico. Toyota stood by its plan to produce Corollas in Guanajuato, while stressing that its production and employment in the U.S. will not be affected.</p>
<p>There were some notes of optimism among Mexicans. As security guard Juan Gonzalez watched contractors haul away giant earth movers on flatbed trailers, he said he didn’t expect the site to stay vacant for long.</p>
<p>“If it’s not the United States it could be Japan, China,” he said. “This is going to continue.”</p>
<p>Jorge Alvarez, who spent five months at the site working on perimeter roads, said his company had already told him his next project will be at the airport, so work would continue for him at least.</p>
<p>Another option could be that Mexico turns inward and focuses more on developing its internal market, said Roy Campos, president of the Mexico City-based Mitofsky consulting group. According to industry figures, 82 percent of vehicles manufactured in Mexico are exported now.</p>
<p>“Sooner or later, because of the nearness and the border, the personal relationships, the human relationships, the Mexico-United States relationship is going to return to what it was or even better than before,” Campos said. “So meanwhile, develop the other markets that could be very beneficial to Mexico.”</p>
<p>Billboards welcoming Ford had been sprinkled around San Luis Potosi in recent months. But only a day after the company’s announcement, the welcome sign across the highway from the plant was already down.</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>Associated Press writer Peter Orsi in Mexico City contributed to this report.</p> | Mexican Ford plant workers blame Trump for dashed dreams | false | https://abqjournal.com/922579/mexican-ford-plant-workers-blame-trump-for-dashed-dreams.html | 2017-01-06 | 2least
| Mexican Ford plant workers blame Trump for dashed dreams
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>“When I saw it on the phone, (I thought), ‘Well, no, it can’t be,'” said Higinio Salazar, a security guard who spent the past five months logging traffic into and out of the site and hoped to have steady work for months to come. “It was on orders of Mr. Trump,” he said bitterly.</p>
<p>That was not the case, Ford insists, but the perception here in Mexico’s burgeoning auto assembly region was largely that President-elect Donald Trump, who had promised for months to bring manufacturing jobs back to the U.S. while at the same time disparaging Mexicans, had made good before even settling into the White House. Trump took a shot at Toyota on Thursday over its move to make Corollas in this region, though the Japanese company defended its plan.</p>
<p>Ford’s announcement sent shockwaves across Mexico, which has become tightly meshed with the U.S. economy since the advent of the North American Free Trade Agreement, sending 80 percent of its $532 billion in exports across the border in 2015. The U.S. government says $100 billion of that was in vehicles and parts, making Mexico the biggest exporter of automotive products to the United States. Mexico’s auto plants now account for 20 percent of all light vehicles built in North America, industry figures say.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>State officials in San Luis Potosi did not find out much earlier than Salazar that plans had been scrapped for the long-awaited plant, which promised 2,800 direct jobs and more than 10,000 indirect ones through Ford’s supply chain. State Economic Development Secretary Gustavo Puente Orozco said Ford told state officials about an hour before CEO Mark Fields made the announcement Tuesday.</p>
<p>Puente said Ford made very clear it was a “definitive cancellation,” citing supply and demand rather than politics.</p>
<p>“They told us that it was a market issue — the issue that the Ford Focus that was the vehicle they thought to build, this light vehicle they planned to build in San Luis Potosi, they say the demand had dropped,” Puente said.</p>
<p>Low gas prices have Americans turning again to larger vehicles and Focus sales have fallen victim to that trend. Fields said Ford will produce the Focus at an existing plant in Hermosillo, Mexico, and use some of the savings to invest $700 million in an existing Michigan plant to make hybrid, electric and autonomous vehicles.</p>
<p>The San Luis Potosi plant was well past the theoretical stage and there were high hopes the state would see further economic growth from the opening of its third auto plant — General Motors Corp. has been producing the small Aveo and Trax vehicles up the road since 2008 and a BMW plant nearby is scheduled to begin production in early 2019.</p>
<p>The steel bones of Ford’s plant had begun to rise and signs designated the future spots for each part of the operation, from “stamping” to “final warehouse.”</p>
<p>On Wednesday, Fernando Rosales Ortuno, who deals in hydraulic hoses for Parker Hannifin Corp. was pacing the site’s perimeter with cellphone pressed to his ear trying to arrange for a trailer to get hauled away. It’s essentially a portable store that had been set up to service the big machines preparing the site.</p>
<p>He had hoped that once Ford was up and running, the plant might become a long-term client.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“It hit us like a bucket of cold water,” Rosales said. “Everyone here was hoping for a lot of growth in the state and this region, too.”</p>
<p>Four clustered states in central Mexico — San Luis Potosi, Queretaro, Aguascalientes and Guanajuato — have seven auto assembly plants that are operating or will be within the next two years. Around them are nearly 800 auto parts suppliers, Puente said.</p>
<p>In San Luis Potosi alone, between 50,000 and 60,000 jobs depend on the auto industry. An average worker in Mexico costs automakers $8 an hour, including wages and benefits, compared to the $60 an hour that Ford said it was spending on an auto worker in the U.S. at the end of 2015.</p>
<p>In Villa de Reyes’ town square, residents said the younger generation would be hurt most by the cancellation.</p>
<p>Retiree Ignacio Segura Rocha said fewer people from town are migrating to the U.S. now because the crossing has gotten harder than when he went in 1977 and 1978. He said the auto industry offers good alternatives for kids growing up on the region’s isolated ranches.</p>
<p>“They were already dreaming of going there (to Ford), and at the last minute there’s nothing,” he said.</p>
<p>Construction worker J. Refugio Waldo Contreras feels Trump is putting Mexicans in an impossible situation.</p>
<p>“This Trump, he doesn’t want people there, so where is he going to send them?” Contreras asked. “And he doesn’t want work to open here? So then he’s going to close the doors.”</p>
<p>Trump also sent tweets this week threatening to impose heavy tariffs on General Motors and Toyota cars produced in Mexico for the U.S. market. GM said it exports only a small number of Cruze hatchbacks it makes in Mexico. Toyota stood by its plan to produce Corollas in Guanajuato, while stressing that its production and employment in the U.S. will not be affected.</p>
<p>There were some notes of optimism among Mexicans. As security guard Juan Gonzalez watched contractors haul away giant earth movers on flatbed trailers, he said he didn’t expect the site to stay vacant for long.</p>
<p>“If it’s not the United States it could be Japan, China,” he said. “This is going to continue.”</p>
<p>Jorge Alvarez, who spent five months at the site working on perimeter roads, said his company had already told him his next project will be at the airport, so work would continue for him at least.</p>
<p>Another option could be that Mexico turns inward and focuses more on developing its internal market, said Roy Campos, president of the Mexico City-based Mitofsky consulting group. According to industry figures, 82 percent of vehicles manufactured in Mexico are exported now.</p>
<p>“Sooner or later, because of the nearness and the border, the personal relationships, the human relationships, the Mexico-United States relationship is going to return to what it was or even better than before,” Campos said. “So meanwhile, develop the other markets that could be very beneficial to Mexico.”</p>
<p>Billboards welcoming Ford had been sprinkled around San Luis Potosi in recent months. But only a day after the company’s announcement, the welcome sign across the highway from the plant was already down.</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>Associated Press writer Peter Orsi in Mexico City contributed to this report.</p> | 599,144 |
<p>Gasoline803790 and diesel cars will be banned from UK roads by 2040 and people driving those vehicles will face new pollution taxes starting in 2020 as the government looks to improve air quality, <a href="http://news.sky.com/story/petrol-and-diesel-cars-banned-from-uk-roads-by-2040-10962075" type="external">Sky News reported</a> Tuesday.</p>
<p>Environment Secretary Michael Gove is expected to reveal the plan soon, a decision that echoes a similar ban made by the French earlier this month. It also comes as car giants, including Volvo, recently announced all of its new motors will be electric or hybrid after 2019.</p>
<p>The pollution taxes will apply on the busiest roads, including the M4 near London and the M32 in Bristol. Currently, 81 major roads in 17 towns are in breach of the European Union’s emission standards.</p>
<p>“Our plan to deal with dirty diesels will help councils clean up emissions hotspots – often a single road – through common sense measures which do not unfairly penalize ordinary working people,” a government spokesman told Sky News.</p>
<p>“Diesel drivers are not to blame and to help them switch to cleaner vehicles the government will consult on a targeted scrappage scheme – one of a number of measures to support motorists affected by local plans.”</p> | No More Gasoline, Diesel Cars in UK After 2040 | false | https://newsline.com/no-more-gasoline-diesel-cars-in-uk-after-2040/ | 2017-07-26 | 1right-center
| No More Gasoline, Diesel Cars in UK After 2040
<p>Gasoline803790 and diesel cars will be banned from UK roads by 2040 and people driving those vehicles will face new pollution taxes starting in 2020 as the government looks to improve air quality, <a href="http://news.sky.com/story/petrol-and-diesel-cars-banned-from-uk-roads-by-2040-10962075" type="external">Sky News reported</a> Tuesday.</p>
<p>Environment Secretary Michael Gove is expected to reveal the plan soon, a decision that echoes a similar ban made by the French earlier this month. It also comes as car giants, including Volvo, recently announced all of its new motors will be electric or hybrid after 2019.</p>
<p>The pollution taxes will apply on the busiest roads, including the M4 near London and the M32 in Bristol. Currently, 81 major roads in 17 towns are in breach of the European Union’s emission standards.</p>
<p>“Our plan to deal with dirty diesels will help councils clean up emissions hotspots – often a single road – through common sense measures which do not unfairly penalize ordinary working people,” a government spokesman told Sky News.</p>
<p>“Diesel drivers are not to blame and to help them switch to cleaner vehicles the government will consult on a targeted scrappage scheme – one of a number of measures to support motorists affected by local plans.”</p> | 599,145 |
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>WITH ALL the fires starting in the Pecos and the drought that we are in, shouldn’t it be time for the governor to ban all sale of fireworks?</p>
<p>Not just from the stands that will be popping up soon, but the sale of fireworks to these stands and the stopping of any licensing or permits they might need to sell fireworks. In other words, no fireworks this year! Go to a regulated fireworks display this year and hopefully each year thereafter!</p>
<p />
<p>Firefighting resources lacking</p>
<p>HAVING GONE fishing to Fenton Lake on June 1, I saw a different picture of the Thompson Ridge Fire than was told to the Journal by the Forest Service.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>I’d say the fire grew in size from the morning we got there to the end of the day when we left in spite of their efforts.</p>
<p>There is not enough resources being thrown at the fire to put it out. There were two helicopters taking water from the lake from time to time while occasionally a slurry plane flew by. The slurry appeared to make a big difference but it seemed there was only one plane that obviously had to fly back to Albuquerque to be refilled.</p>
<p>My take is that if you’re really going to stop a fire, you’d need planes dropping their slurry every 10 or 15 minutes. Also, get rid of the helicopters. They’re not only spreading the embers when their water hits but, given the size of their water buckets, it’s more like trying to put out a campfire with thimbles.</p>
<p>A halfhearted display of resources is not going to work and, if that’s what they’ve decided to do, they should just be used to protect homes and towns. Let Mother Nature extinguish the fire when she gets around to it.</p>
<p>The present course of action led by the Forest Service is only endangering the lives of firefighters and is a waste of time and money. They’re not stopping a darned thing.</p>
<p />
<p>Why not build a water pipeline?</p>
<p>RECENT ARTICLES regarding the impact of the drought on farmers and cattlemen are tragic. But we were warned this was coming for decades upon decades. We are not alone.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Nevada, Arizona and Colorado are all suffering from drought and competing for water resources. In addition, we have to consider the needs of the country of Mexico, which is also drought-stricken.</p>
<p>We know natural water resources will no longer support our growing population and the needs of our economy. The impact of climate change will force us to plan and prepare to import large quantities of water on an ongoing basis.</p>
<p>We have the technology to do it. If we can build one oil pipeline in Alaska and propose a second through Canada to the Midwest, we can certainly build water pipelines from the Gulf of Mexico, the Gulf of California, the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans to provide water for the interior of the United States.</p>
<p>This can be done through combination plants at the sources of water that combine solar energy with water purification, fertilizer production and electricity. We can utilize the technology already in operation in other drought-stricken areas of the world to suit our needs and we can create our own special touches – making the facilities earthquake proof; utilizing floating facilities that can be moved out of the way of hurricanes: providing the power needs to advance industry; and providing a major source of both jobs and occupations for the future.</p>
<p>With the expected working life of these plants extending well beyond 100 years each, the financing of their construction and the payback from customers drawing upon their products is workable.</p>
<p>The Department of the Interior needs to take the lead in the architectural designs that will draw upon and integrate private enterprise into this vision of the future. It can address the replacement of the local water pacts with national and international priorities.</p>
<p>It can be done if we have the will to do it.</p>
<p />
<p>More people means less water</p>
<p>THE JOURNAL (May 29) succinctly defines a looming crisis on the Colorado River, the Southwest’s – and Albuquerque’s – main water source, with the first-ever federal water emergency likely by 2016. That will trigger delivery cuts, mandatory conservation measures and, if drought continues, severe water shortages, with predictable economic impacts to the region.</p>
<p>Yet, the Obama administration and the Gang of Eight – in one of the most irresponsible actions in our history – are attempting “immigration reform” absent acknowledgement or discussion of the demographic implications of our accepting more immigrants a year than all other nations of the world combined.</p>
<p>The only concern voiced was the administration’s fears that without continuing immigration at the unprecedented highs of recent decades, growth might slow. This from a president who professes concern about global warming – linked directly to population – and the environment, even as ours is the third most populated nation behind only China and India, with environmental consequences to the world, since we are a leading carbon-emitter.</p>
<p>Our population increases by a whopping 2.1 million a year, 82 percent fueled by immigration. If the Southwest receives only one third the 138 million population increase predicted nationally by 2050, the region’s population will double, even as experts predict flows on the Colorado will decrease by half.</p>
<p>The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation estimates that the Colorado River will be unable to meet Colorado River Compact obligations 58 to 73 percent of the time by 2050. While there are limited technological remedies, most – as Sandia National Laboratories has defined – are energy-intensive, as energy too faces shortages, becomes more costly and as hydro-power production decreases with drought.</p>
<p>Moving forward on immigration reform absent consideration of these issues is as irresponsible as a teen using dad’s credit card, uncaring that eventually the bill will have to be paid.</p>
<p>News is pessimistic, realistic</p>
<p>I AM WRITING in response to your current front page articles concerning the drought we are facing here in New Mexico.</p>
<p>When we first came to Albuquerque in 1966, rain storms, along with beautiful loud thunder/lightning storms, were typical occurrences during the summer. Streets would flood curb to curb and the arroyos around town would gush with water, unfortunately causing several people to lose their lives.</p>
<p>We moved to our current location, above Tramway, 20 years ago and were mesmerized watching storms move from the west side to the east side and drench us with wonderful rain.</p>
<p>Since then, there’s been conversations about being in the middle of a prolonged drought season, that this is a desert and there was plenty of water in the aquifer, etc.</p>
<p>Now your front page articles concerning the drought are sounding a little bit more pessimistic and unfortunately more realistic.</p>
<p>My question, as I asked years ago, is why hasn’t anyone talked about building a pipeline from the Eastern states to the Western states to carry that water to our drought-ridden states. The Alaska pipeline was built with huge success and developers want to build the Keystone pipeline that may be an environmental nightmare. But no one is talking about transporting water from where it’s in great abundance to where it’s drastically needed.</p>
<p>Apparently there’s no profit in water or doing something for the sole benefit of the good.</p>
<p />
<p>Re-think the rescue of fools</p>
<p>THE EVENING TV news featured, prominently, a homeowner displaced by the Pecos Fire, who demanded being let back into his home to rescue photos, for Pete’s sake! Even though the state has been under severe drought conditions for two years and he should have gathered whatever two years ago, in preparation for just such an emergency.</p>
<p>As a member of the Edgewood Fire Department, and an EMT for 27 years, (I know) this man has no clue the danger he would present to fire personnel.</p>
<p>First, he would block their access while he tootled up to his house. Second, if the fire changed direction, which it has, and he got trapped, then someone like my husband would put himself into harm’s way saving him! Third, if he got trapped, and was injured, he would then sue the state, fire department, Wildland Fire – anyone and everyone.</p>
<p>First point: I wish the media would stop seeking out such (ignorant people). Or at least, the media should offer alternate comments from educated sources.</p>
<p>Second point: I am pretty fed up with rescuing (foolish people) of all stripes at the risk of people dedicated to the normal human response of “running into a fire,” which the media obviously cannot understand. For example, hikers on Mt. Rainier who got lost without any safety provisions except for a cell phone: The entire rescue crew and helicopter were lost. Closer to home, the hiker above Santa Fe who got lost in incredibly rugged terrain, again, without even the one-ounce safety blanket with her and we – New Mexico – lost a dedicated rescue expert. Along with an expensive helicopter. I think it is time to re-think the rescue of (ignorant people).</p>
<p>Certainly, I do not want my EMT husband to risk his life for the life of someone without a shred of common sense!</p> | FEELING THE HEAT | false | https://abqjournal.com/209020/feeling-the-heat.html | 2013-06-11 | 2least
| FEELING THE HEAT
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>WITH ALL the fires starting in the Pecos and the drought that we are in, shouldn’t it be time for the governor to ban all sale of fireworks?</p>
<p>Not just from the stands that will be popping up soon, but the sale of fireworks to these stands and the stopping of any licensing or permits they might need to sell fireworks. In other words, no fireworks this year! Go to a regulated fireworks display this year and hopefully each year thereafter!</p>
<p />
<p>Firefighting resources lacking</p>
<p>HAVING GONE fishing to Fenton Lake on June 1, I saw a different picture of the Thompson Ridge Fire than was told to the Journal by the Forest Service.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>I’d say the fire grew in size from the morning we got there to the end of the day when we left in spite of their efforts.</p>
<p>There is not enough resources being thrown at the fire to put it out. There were two helicopters taking water from the lake from time to time while occasionally a slurry plane flew by. The slurry appeared to make a big difference but it seemed there was only one plane that obviously had to fly back to Albuquerque to be refilled.</p>
<p>My take is that if you’re really going to stop a fire, you’d need planes dropping their slurry every 10 or 15 minutes. Also, get rid of the helicopters. They’re not only spreading the embers when their water hits but, given the size of their water buckets, it’s more like trying to put out a campfire with thimbles.</p>
<p>A halfhearted display of resources is not going to work and, if that’s what they’ve decided to do, they should just be used to protect homes and towns. Let Mother Nature extinguish the fire when she gets around to it.</p>
<p>The present course of action led by the Forest Service is only endangering the lives of firefighters and is a waste of time and money. They’re not stopping a darned thing.</p>
<p />
<p>Why not build a water pipeline?</p>
<p>RECENT ARTICLES regarding the impact of the drought on farmers and cattlemen are tragic. But we were warned this was coming for decades upon decades. We are not alone.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Kansas, Nebraska, Wyoming, Nevada, Arizona and Colorado are all suffering from drought and competing for water resources. In addition, we have to consider the needs of the country of Mexico, which is also drought-stricken.</p>
<p>We know natural water resources will no longer support our growing population and the needs of our economy. The impact of climate change will force us to plan and prepare to import large quantities of water on an ongoing basis.</p>
<p>We have the technology to do it. If we can build one oil pipeline in Alaska and propose a second through Canada to the Midwest, we can certainly build water pipelines from the Gulf of Mexico, the Gulf of California, the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans to provide water for the interior of the United States.</p>
<p>This can be done through combination plants at the sources of water that combine solar energy with water purification, fertilizer production and electricity. We can utilize the technology already in operation in other drought-stricken areas of the world to suit our needs and we can create our own special touches – making the facilities earthquake proof; utilizing floating facilities that can be moved out of the way of hurricanes: providing the power needs to advance industry; and providing a major source of both jobs and occupations for the future.</p>
<p>With the expected working life of these plants extending well beyond 100 years each, the financing of their construction and the payback from customers drawing upon their products is workable.</p>
<p>The Department of the Interior needs to take the lead in the architectural designs that will draw upon and integrate private enterprise into this vision of the future. It can address the replacement of the local water pacts with national and international priorities.</p>
<p>It can be done if we have the will to do it.</p>
<p />
<p>More people means less water</p>
<p>THE JOURNAL (May 29) succinctly defines a looming crisis on the Colorado River, the Southwest’s – and Albuquerque’s – main water source, with the first-ever federal water emergency likely by 2016. That will trigger delivery cuts, mandatory conservation measures and, if drought continues, severe water shortages, with predictable economic impacts to the region.</p>
<p>Yet, the Obama administration and the Gang of Eight – in one of the most irresponsible actions in our history – are attempting “immigration reform” absent acknowledgement or discussion of the demographic implications of our accepting more immigrants a year than all other nations of the world combined.</p>
<p>The only concern voiced was the administration’s fears that without continuing immigration at the unprecedented highs of recent decades, growth might slow. This from a president who professes concern about global warming – linked directly to population – and the environment, even as ours is the third most populated nation behind only China and India, with environmental consequences to the world, since we are a leading carbon-emitter.</p>
<p>Our population increases by a whopping 2.1 million a year, 82 percent fueled by immigration. If the Southwest receives only one third the 138 million population increase predicted nationally by 2050, the region’s population will double, even as experts predict flows on the Colorado will decrease by half.</p>
<p>The U.S. Bureau of Reclamation estimates that the Colorado River will be unable to meet Colorado River Compact obligations 58 to 73 percent of the time by 2050. While there are limited technological remedies, most – as Sandia National Laboratories has defined – are energy-intensive, as energy too faces shortages, becomes more costly and as hydro-power production decreases with drought.</p>
<p>Moving forward on immigration reform absent consideration of these issues is as irresponsible as a teen using dad’s credit card, uncaring that eventually the bill will have to be paid.</p>
<p>News is pessimistic, realistic</p>
<p>I AM WRITING in response to your current front page articles concerning the drought we are facing here in New Mexico.</p>
<p>When we first came to Albuquerque in 1966, rain storms, along with beautiful loud thunder/lightning storms, were typical occurrences during the summer. Streets would flood curb to curb and the arroyos around town would gush with water, unfortunately causing several people to lose their lives.</p>
<p>We moved to our current location, above Tramway, 20 years ago and were mesmerized watching storms move from the west side to the east side and drench us with wonderful rain.</p>
<p>Since then, there’s been conversations about being in the middle of a prolonged drought season, that this is a desert and there was plenty of water in the aquifer, etc.</p>
<p>Now your front page articles concerning the drought are sounding a little bit more pessimistic and unfortunately more realistic.</p>
<p>My question, as I asked years ago, is why hasn’t anyone talked about building a pipeline from the Eastern states to the Western states to carry that water to our drought-ridden states. The Alaska pipeline was built with huge success and developers want to build the Keystone pipeline that may be an environmental nightmare. But no one is talking about transporting water from where it’s in great abundance to where it’s drastically needed.</p>
<p>Apparently there’s no profit in water or doing something for the sole benefit of the good.</p>
<p />
<p>Re-think the rescue of fools</p>
<p>THE EVENING TV news featured, prominently, a homeowner displaced by the Pecos Fire, who demanded being let back into his home to rescue photos, for Pete’s sake! Even though the state has been under severe drought conditions for two years and he should have gathered whatever two years ago, in preparation for just such an emergency.</p>
<p>As a member of the Edgewood Fire Department, and an EMT for 27 years, (I know) this man has no clue the danger he would present to fire personnel.</p>
<p>First, he would block their access while he tootled up to his house. Second, if the fire changed direction, which it has, and he got trapped, then someone like my husband would put himself into harm’s way saving him! Third, if he got trapped, and was injured, he would then sue the state, fire department, Wildland Fire – anyone and everyone.</p>
<p>First point: I wish the media would stop seeking out such (ignorant people). Or at least, the media should offer alternate comments from educated sources.</p>
<p>Second point: I am pretty fed up with rescuing (foolish people) of all stripes at the risk of people dedicated to the normal human response of “running into a fire,” which the media obviously cannot understand. For example, hikers on Mt. Rainier who got lost without any safety provisions except for a cell phone: The entire rescue crew and helicopter were lost. Closer to home, the hiker above Santa Fe who got lost in incredibly rugged terrain, again, without even the one-ounce safety blanket with her and we – New Mexico – lost a dedicated rescue expert. Along with an expensive helicopter. I think it is time to re-think the rescue of (ignorant people).</p>
<p>Certainly, I do not want my EMT husband to risk his life for the life of someone without a shred of common sense!</p> | 599,146 |
<p>“The Organization is based on the principle of the sovereign equality of all its Members…All Members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United Nations.”</p>
<p>Article 2, Chapter 1, Charter of the United Nations</p>
<p>Those invaders of Iraq are at it again. Vice President Dick Cheney and Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, and their neo con staff led by Deputy Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz and Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Douglas Feith, have conjured up another villain: Syria.</p>
<p>They want to punish Bashar Al-Assad’s regime for Saddam-like crimes weapons of mass destruction and fomenting terrorism. Although, their aggressive verbal assault might have as its real design the deflection of criticism over spying and leaking from the Vice President’s office. Justice Department investigators focus on Cheney’s top aides as likely culprits who fed journalist Robert Novak the name of undercover CIA operative Valerie Plame. When Novak “outed” her, Plame abandoned her mission and career. The Bushies thus showed other potential truth-tellers the high cost of “embarrassing” the Administration by telling the truth. Plame’s husband, Ambassador Joseph Wilson, had publicly demolished Cheney’s “Saddam tried to buy uranium in Africa” story.</p>
<p>More recently, the FBI has named a Cheney aide and members of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) as involved in spying for Israel. This Israeli lobby that claims to represent the Jewish population has for decades distracted attention away from Israeli aggression and manipulation of US policies by accusing Israel’s unfriendly neighbors of terrorism–first Iraq, now Syria and Iran.</p>
<p>The “t” word took on new meaning in early September when Russian troops and Chechen separatists together killed 300 plus people and Israeli forces assassinated 14 Palestinians in Gaza. In this terrifying atmosphere, Syria should have won status as a major non-issue. Nevertheless, the Israeli lobby’s influence overcame the headlines. So, by the Fall of 2003, the Israeli lobby convinced liberal Democrats like California Senator Barbara Boxer and Los Angeles Congressman Henry Waxman to generate support for the Syria Accountability and Lebanese Sovereignty Restoration Act, legislation that punished Damascus for alleged terrorist connections and accumulation of WMD. Indeed, the vast majority in Congress right, left and center — voted for the legislation without engaging in any fact-finding or serious debate. Bush signed the Act into law in December and in May 2004 banned US exports to Syria and Syrian flights from entering or leaving US territory.</p>
<p>The US Committee for a Free Lebanon led the anti-Syria charge. Founded as an Israeli front in 1997, under Ziad K. Abdelnour, the Free Lebanon Committee worked with AIPAC and the neo cons to push for anti-Syria sanctions. In lashing out at Syria, Washington was in effect punishing Damascus for having helped the United States. In so doing, Washington demonstrated its unpredictable nature to other regimes in the region.</p>
<p>In the early 1990s, Syria actively promoted Washington’s attempt to organize a peace meeting in Madrid. Even more baffling, Syria provided crucial intelligence to the CIA to prevent an Al-Qaeda attack against US personnel in Bahrain in the post 9/11 period.</p>
<p>As if to prove that no good deed goes unpunished, Bush resorted to arm-twisting diplomacy to attack Syria at the United Nations. During the pre-Iraq invasion period, this kind of behavior had soured believers in the rule of law and the efficacy of the United Nations. On September 2, Washington pushed the Security Council to approve Resolution 1559 (9 out of 15 votes affirmative), which targetsbut doesn’t specifically name –Syria for maintaining troops in Lebanon and interfering in the upcoming Lebanese presidential elections.</p>
<p>This time, France co-sponsored the Resolution, a dramatic turnabout from its 2003 refusal to back Washington’s Iraq invasion. A spokesman from Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s office welcomed the resolution, but lamented that it fell short of sanctioning Damascus. The Security Council’s action did, however, express contempt for the UN’s founding principles: respect for sovereignty and non-interference in domestic affairs. The resolution called for “all remaining foreign forces to withdraw from Lebanon” and “a free and fair electoral process in Lebanon’s upcoming presidential election conducted according to Lebanese constitutional rules devised without foreign interference or influence.”</p>
<p>Lebanon had not requested Security Council action. Indeed, on the following day, September 3, Lebanon’s Parliament amended its Constitution (96-29) and extended pro-Syrian President Emile Lahoud’s six-year term, which was to expire on November 24.</p>
<p>Rather than inquire into Syria’s motives for maintaining its Lebanese force, the mainstream press simply printed the White House spin as news: Syria as an evil occupying force. How ironic, in light of the current US occupation of neighboring Iraq and the history of Israeli troops in Syria’s Golan Heights.</p>
<p>History has not intruded on Bush’s explanation of global good and evil, but had he offered appropriate background one could understand why Syria became involved in the 1975-1990 Lebanese War. In May 1976, with Arab League backing, President Hafez al-Assad sent troops to Lebanon to help Christian militias. By doing so, Syria countered Israel’s foe, the PLO, who had allied with Lebanese National Movement.</p>
<p>In October 1976, Arab leaders negotiated a cease-fire between Syria and the PLO. The agreement called for Arab forces — mainly Syrians — to remain in Lebanon to maintain order. Assad used this accord as a lever in Lebanese politics, and Lebanese territory as a buffer against Israel.</p>
<p>But Assad couldn’t end the Civil War in which foreign and domestic interests sought advantage. Instead, from late 1976 on, outside powers supported rival Lebanese militia factions as they destroyed their own country.</p>
<p>In 1982, to demolish the PLO’s military wing, Israel invaded Lebanon and worked with Christian Maronites in carrying out massacres of Palestinians at the refugee camps at Sabra and Shatilla. Israel also hoped to force Assad’s withdrawal of Syrian troops, whose proximity to Israel created security discomfort. Israeli troops remained as occupiers in southern Lebanon until May 2000 (except for a strip along the Lebanon-Syria border), when the Israeli public demanded an end to the occupation.</p>
<p>But Syria, less concerned with public opinion, remained in Lebanon, which makes Israel uncomfortable. Israel’s behavior has helped Arab states forge alliances. But Israel with US support– has also convinced some of the most rabid anti-Israel regimes to abandon the PLO. In turn, the “Arab street” has responded by fomenting religious and ethnic-based violence, which has destabilized parts of the region.</p>
<p>Byzantine? No, pre-Byzantine. Contemporary Middle East politics have pre-colonial roots, pre-dating the European ouster of the Ottoman Empire. As Bush discovers daily in Iraq, US war makers had little historical context for establishing their peace. Nevertheless, the planners of the Iraq invasion, some of whom may have had links to espionage operations, have offered up the “blame Syria” scenario.</p>
<p>They demand harsh US actions against that country to “fight terrorism” and usher in US-style democracy. Like Iraq, Syria has had a stable and secular, albeit authoritarian government. Hafez Al-Assad ruled from 1971-2000; Bashar, his son, from June 2000-present.</p>
<p>The media has not even covered the barest historical bones that we have outlined. Nor has the press commented on the selective enforcement of Security Council resolutions related to the Middle East. Iraq got punished for deeds similar to those committed by Israel: invading neighbors, accumulating destructive weapons and human rights violations.</p>
<p>In October 2003, Israel bombed Syria to punish Damascus for backing terrorism. Israel furnished no evidence. The Security Council did not condemn Israel for that act of aggression. But the Council now demands the withdrawal of foreign forces from Lebanon, without mentioning Israel’s continued occupation of Syria’s Golan Heights. In 1981, the Council passed Resolution 497, calling Israel’s jurisdiction there “null and void and without international legal effect.” Since 1967, Israel has occupied Palestinian territories acquired by force, directly violating Resolutions 242 and 338.</p>
<p>State Department spokesman Tom Kasey called the decision to extend the Lebanese president’s term “a crude mockery of democratic principles.” A Syrian diplomatic source said that “after the Florida election in 2000, the Bush Administration has some nerve telling other people how to follow democratic rules.”</p>
<p>The Lebanese Parliament’s vote to change the Constitution, benefiting Syria, reflects more of a quest for stability than anti-democratic tendencies. But no democrat should condone continued Syrian influence in Lebanese politics. However, even if Syria wanted to withdraw, it would not erase several centuries of colonialism, from the Ottomans through the British and French. Arabs have had imperial rule stamped indelibly into their political culture. Between the two World Wars, France ran Syria and manipulated its Constitution to suit its imperial purposes. France supported Christians over Muslims in Lebanese politics and, along with the United States and England, consistently backed Israeli interests.</p>
<p>Ironically, when Middle East politics take anti-Israeli turns, the United States preaches “democracy.” In fact, Washington’s “appointocracies” in Iraq and Afghanistan rule through US power, not popular mandate. Washington’s verbal “commitment” to democracy has led “the Arab street” not only in Damascus — to become highly skeptical of US motives.</p>
<p>Saul Landau is the Director of Digital Media and International Outreach Programs for the College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences. His new book is <a href="" type="internal">The Business of America</a>.</p>
<p>Farrah Hassen was one of the filmmakers for SYRIA: BETWEEN IRAQ AND A HARD PLACE.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p> | The Neo-cons Threaten Syria | true | https://counterpunch.org/2004/09/16/the-neo-cons-threaten-syria/ | 2004-09-16 | 4left
| The Neo-cons Threaten Syria
<p>“The Organization is based on the principle of the sovereign equality of all its Members…All Members shall refrain in their international relations from the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state, or in any other manner inconsistent with the Purposes of the United Nations.”</p>
<p>Article 2, Chapter 1, Charter of the United Nations</p>
<p>Those invaders of Iraq are at it again. Vice President Dick Cheney and Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld, and their neo con staff led by Deputy Defense Secretary Paul Wolfowitz and Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Douglas Feith, have conjured up another villain: Syria.</p>
<p>They want to punish Bashar Al-Assad’s regime for Saddam-like crimes weapons of mass destruction and fomenting terrorism. Although, their aggressive verbal assault might have as its real design the deflection of criticism over spying and leaking from the Vice President’s office. Justice Department investigators focus on Cheney’s top aides as likely culprits who fed journalist Robert Novak the name of undercover CIA operative Valerie Plame. When Novak “outed” her, Plame abandoned her mission and career. The Bushies thus showed other potential truth-tellers the high cost of “embarrassing” the Administration by telling the truth. Plame’s husband, Ambassador Joseph Wilson, had publicly demolished Cheney’s “Saddam tried to buy uranium in Africa” story.</p>
<p>More recently, the FBI has named a Cheney aide and members of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) as involved in spying for Israel. This Israeli lobby that claims to represent the Jewish population has for decades distracted attention away from Israeli aggression and manipulation of US policies by accusing Israel’s unfriendly neighbors of terrorism–first Iraq, now Syria and Iran.</p>
<p>The “t” word took on new meaning in early September when Russian troops and Chechen separatists together killed 300 plus people and Israeli forces assassinated 14 Palestinians in Gaza. In this terrifying atmosphere, Syria should have won status as a major non-issue. Nevertheless, the Israeli lobby’s influence overcame the headlines. So, by the Fall of 2003, the Israeli lobby convinced liberal Democrats like California Senator Barbara Boxer and Los Angeles Congressman Henry Waxman to generate support for the Syria Accountability and Lebanese Sovereignty Restoration Act, legislation that punished Damascus for alleged terrorist connections and accumulation of WMD. Indeed, the vast majority in Congress right, left and center — voted for the legislation without engaging in any fact-finding or serious debate. Bush signed the Act into law in December and in May 2004 banned US exports to Syria and Syrian flights from entering or leaving US territory.</p>
<p>The US Committee for a Free Lebanon led the anti-Syria charge. Founded as an Israeli front in 1997, under Ziad K. Abdelnour, the Free Lebanon Committee worked with AIPAC and the neo cons to push for anti-Syria sanctions. In lashing out at Syria, Washington was in effect punishing Damascus for having helped the United States. In so doing, Washington demonstrated its unpredictable nature to other regimes in the region.</p>
<p>In the early 1990s, Syria actively promoted Washington’s attempt to organize a peace meeting in Madrid. Even more baffling, Syria provided crucial intelligence to the CIA to prevent an Al-Qaeda attack against US personnel in Bahrain in the post 9/11 period.</p>
<p>As if to prove that no good deed goes unpunished, Bush resorted to arm-twisting diplomacy to attack Syria at the United Nations. During the pre-Iraq invasion period, this kind of behavior had soured believers in the rule of law and the efficacy of the United Nations. On September 2, Washington pushed the Security Council to approve Resolution 1559 (9 out of 15 votes affirmative), which targetsbut doesn’t specifically name –Syria for maintaining troops in Lebanon and interfering in the upcoming Lebanese presidential elections.</p>
<p>This time, France co-sponsored the Resolution, a dramatic turnabout from its 2003 refusal to back Washington’s Iraq invasion. A spokesman from Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon’s office welcomed the resolution, but lamented that it fell short of sanctioning Damascus. The Security Council’s action did, however, express contempt for the UN’s founding principles: respect for sovereignty and non-interference in domestic affairs. The resolution called for “all remaining foreign forces to withdraw from Lebanon” and “a free and fair electoral process in Lebanon’s upcoming presidential election conducted according to Lebanese constitutional rules devised without foreign interference or influence.”</p>
<p>Lebanon had not requested Security Council action. Indeed, on the following day, September 3, Lebanon’s Parliament amended its Constitution (96-29) and extended pro-Syrian President Emile Lahoud’s six-year term, which was to expire on November 24.</p>
<p>Rather than inquire into Syria’s motives for maintaining its Lebanese force, the mainstream press simply printed the White House spin as news: Syria as an evil occupying force. How ironic, in light of the current US occupation of neighboring Iraq and the history of Israeli troops in Syria’s Golan Heights.</p>
<p>History has not intruded on Bush’s explanation of global good and evil, but had he offered appropriate background one could understand why Syria became involved in the 1975-1990 Lebanese War. In May 1976, with Arab League backing, President Hafez al-Assad sent troops to Lebanon to help Christian militias. By doing so, Syria countered Israel’s foe, the PLO, who had allied with Lebanese National Movement.</p>
<p>In October 1976, Arab leaders negotiated a cease-fire between Syria and the PLO. The agreement called for Arab forces — mainly Syrians — to remain in Lebanon to maintain order. Assad used this accord as a lever in Lebanese politics, and Lebanese territory as a buffer against Israel.</p>
<p>But Assad couldn’t end the Civil War in which foreign and domestic interests sought advantage. Instead, from late 1976 on, outside powers supported rival Lebanese militia factions as they destroyed their own country.</p>
<p>In 1982, to demolish the PLO’s military wing, Israel invaded Lebanon and worked with Christian Maronites in carrying out massacres of Palestinians at the refugee camps at Sabra and Shatilla. Israel also hoped to force Assad’s withdrawal of Syrian troops, whose proximity to Israel created security discomfort. Israeli troops remained as occupiers in southern Lebanon until May 2000 (except for a strip along the Lebanon-Syria border), when the Israeli public demanded an end to the occupation.</p>
<p>But Syria, less concerned with public opinion, remained in Lebanon, which makes Israel uncomfortable. Israel’s behavior has helped Arab states forge alliances. But Israel with US support– has also convinced some of the most rabid anti-Israel regimes to abandon the PLO. In turn, the “Arab street” has responded by fomenting religious and ethnic-based violence, which has destabilized parts of the region.</p>
<p>Byzantine? No, pre-Byzantine. Contemporary Middle East politics have pre-colonial roots, pre-dating the European ouster of the Ottoman Empire. As Bush discovers daily in Iraq, US war makers had little historical context for establishing their peace. Nevertheless, the planners of the Iraq invasion, some of whom may have had links to espionage operations, have offered up the “blame Syria” scenario.</p>
<p>They demand harsh US actions against that country to “fight terrorism” and usher in US-style democracy. Like Iraq, Syria has had a stable and secular, albeit authoritarian government. Hafez Al-Assad ruled from 1971-2000; Bashar, his son, from June 2000-present.</p>
<p>The media has not even covered the barest historical bones that we have outlined. Nor has the press commented on the selective enforcement of Security Council resolutions related to the Middle East. Iraq got punished for deeds similar to those committed by Israel: invading neighbors, accumulating destructive weapons and human rights violations.</p>
<p>In October 2003, Israel bombed Syria to punish Damascus for backing terrorism. Israel furnished no evidence. The Security Council did not condemn Israel for that act of aggression. But the Council now demands the withdrawal of foreign forces from Lebanon, without mentioning Israel’s continued occupation of Syria’s Golan Heights. In 1981, the Council passed Resolution 497, calling Israel’s jurisdiction there “null and void and without international legal effect.” Since 1967, Israel has occupied Palestinian territories acquired by force, directly violating Resolutions 242 and 338.</p>
<p>State Department spokesman Tom Kasey called the decision to extend the Lebanese president’s term “a crude mockery of democratic principles.” A Syrian diplomatic source said that “after the Florida election in 2000, the Bush Administration has some nerve telling other people how to follow democratic rules.”</p>
<p>The Lebanese Parliament’s vote to change the Constitution, benefiting Syria, reflects more of a quest for stability than anti-democratic tendencies. But no democrat should condone continued Syrian influence in Lebanese politics. However, even if Syria wanted to withdraw, it would not erase several centuries of colonialism, from the Ottomans through the British and French. Arabs have had imperial rule stamped indelibly into their political culture. Between the two World Wars, France ran Syria and manipulated its Constitution to suit its imperial purposes. France supported Christians over Muslims in Lebanese politics and, along with the United States and England, consistently backed Israeli interests.</p>
<p>Ironically, when Middle East politics take anti-Israeli turns, the United States preaches “democracy.” In fact, Washington’s “appointocracies” in Iraq and Afghanistan rule through US power, not popular mandate. Washington’s verbal “commitment” to democracy has led “the Arab street” not only in Damascus — to become highly skeptical of US motives.</p>
<p>Saul Landau is the Director of Digital Media and International Outreach Programs for the College of Letters, Arts and Social Sciences. His new book is <a href="" type="internal">The Business of America</a>.</p>
<p>Farrah Hassen was one of the filmmakers for SYRIA: BETWEEN IRAQ AND A HARD PLACE.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p> | 599,147 |
<p>Stocks ticked higher last week as first-quarter earnings season began. Both the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJINDICES: ^DJI) and the S&amp;P 500 (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) gained less than 2%, which put the indexes just slightly lower so far in 2018.</p>
<p>Earnings season kicks into high gear over the next few trading days, with highly anticipated reports on tap from Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX), Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE: JNJ), and Procter &amp; Gamble (NYSE: PG). Here are a few trends for investors to watch in these announcements.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>It's the market's single biggest winner over the past decade, which means streaming video giant Netflix has a lot to prove when it posts earnings results on Monday. The last quarterly outing gave investors <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2018/01/25/netflixs-awesome-2017-in-5-charts.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">plenty to celebrate Opens a New Window.</a>, as subscriber growth sped up to 24 million in fiscal 2017 from 19 million in the prior year. Netflix's profit margin nearly doubled, just as management predicted, as an improving content slate allowed the company to raise prices without sacrificing user gains.</p>
<p>CEO Reed Hastings and his team have predicted that this positive momentum will continue into 2018, with subscriber growth forecast to accelerate to about 6.35 million this quarter from 4.95 million in the year-ago period. New content releases and growth in international markets will be the main drivers behind those gains. And if streamers continue to binge these original series, then investors can expect Netflix to keep spending heavily to keep that pipeline of new content as full as possible.</p>
<p>Healthcare titan Johnson &amp; Johnson will announce its results before the market opens on Tuesday. Investors are optimistic that both sales and profits will increase at a robust pace this quarter. After all, the blue chip was able to overcome falling sales of its core Remicade drug last year to post a 6% increase in organic revenue. Each of its three massive business lines -- consumer products, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices -- expanded in 2017.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>Johnson &amp; Johnson has <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2018/03/14/forget-remicade-heres-how-johnson-johnson-plans-to.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">many more drugs in development Opens a New Window.</a> that will help pick up the slack in its Remicade declines this year. Investors should look for CEO Alex Gorsky and his team to discuss that pipeline on Tuesday while also highlighting the company's stellar cash flow.</p>
<p>As for its latest operating forecast, the outlook calls for a growth slowdown in 2018 to between 3.5% and 4.5%. But management might tweak that prediction on Tuesday. Earnings, on the other hand, are expected to rise by as much as 9.6% for the full year to $8.20 per share.</p>
<p>Procter &amp; Gamble's stock has had an unusually weak run over the past five years, underperforming the market by nearly 50 percentage points. That's because while sales growth has accelerated in each of the last two fiscal years and profitability is reaching new highs, the consumer products giant has lost market share across key franchises like Gillette.</p>
<p>Investors voiced their displeasure about these trends by voting to elect activist shareholder Nelson Peltz to the board of directors. This Friday's earnings report will be the first one since the new board was seated, and so it might include the articulation of a strategic shift.</p>
<p>But the pressure to make aggressive changes will be greater if sales growth disappoints. Back in January, P&amp;G said that organic gains would come in at the low end of their guidance of 2% to 3%, which would translate into essentially no improvement over the prior year's <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2018/01/15/heres-where-things-went-wrong-for-procter-gamble-i.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">disappointing pace Opens a New Window.</a>.</p>
<p>Find out why Netflix is one of the 10 best stocks to buy now</p>
<p>Motley Fool co-founders Tom and David Gardner have spent more than a decade beating the market. (In fact, the newsletter they run, Motley Fool Stock Advisor, has tripled the market!*)</p>
<p>Tom and David just revealed their ten top stock picks for investors to buy right now. Netflix <a href="http://infotron.fool.com/infotrack/click?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fool.com%2Fmms%2Fmark%2Fe-sa-bbn-eg%3Faid%3D8867%26source%3Disaeditxt0000450%26ftm_cam%3Dsa-bbn-evergreen%26ftm_pit%3D6313%26ftm_veh%3Darticle_pitch&amp;impression=4dc6a689-8386-4ce6-a5fe-8dc191ac919f&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">is on the list Opens a New Window.</a> -- but there are nine others you may be overlooking.</p>
<p><a href="http://infotron.fool.com/infotrack/click?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fool.com%2Fmms%2Fmark%2Fe-sa-bbn-eg%3Faid%3D8867%26source%3Disaeditxt0000450%26ftm_cam%3Dsa-bbn-evergreen%26ftm_pit%3D6313%26ftm_veh%3Darticle_pitch&amp;impression=4dc6a689-8386-4ce6-a5fe-8dc191ac919f&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Click here to get access to the full list! Opens a New Window.</a></p>
<p>*Stock Advisor returns as of April 2, 2018</p>
<p><a href="http://my.fool.com/profile/TMFSigma/info.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Demitrios Kalogeropoulos Opens a New Window.</a> owns shares of Netflix. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Johnson &amp; Johnson and Netflix. The Motley Fool has the following options: short May 2018 $140 calls on Johnson &amp; Johnson. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/Legal/fool-disclosure-policy.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p> | 3 Things to Watch in the Stock Market This Week | true | http://foxbusiness.com/markets/2016/09/25/3-things-to-watch-in-stock-market-this-week.html | 2018-04-15 | 0right
| 3 Things to Watch in the Stock Market This Week
<p>Stocks ticked higher last week as first-quarter earnings season began. Both the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJINDICES: ^DJI) and the S&amp;P 500 (SNPINDEX: ^GSPC) gained less than 2%, which put the indexes just slightly lower so far in 2018.</p>
<p>Earnings season kicks into high gear over the next few trading days, with highly anticipated reports on tap from Netflix (NASDAQ: NFLX), Johnson &amp; Johnson (NYSE: JNJ), and Procter &amp; Gamble (NYSE: PG). Here are a few trends for investors to watch in these announcements.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>It's the market's single biggest winner over the past decade, which means streaming video giant Netflix has a lot to prove when it posts earnings results on Monday. The last quarterly outing gave investors <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2018/01/25/netflixs-awesome-2017-in-5-charts.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">plenty to celebrate Opens a New Window.</a>, as subscriber growth sped up to 24 million in fiscal 2017 from 19 million in the prior year. Netflix's profit margin nearly doubled, just as management predicted, as an improving content slate allowed the company to raise prices without sacrificing user gains.</p>
<p>CEO Reed Hastings and his team have predicted that this positive momentum will continue into 2018, with subscriber growth forecast to accelerate to about 6.35 million this quarter from 4.95 million in the year-ago period. New content releases and growth in international markets will be the main drivers behind those gains. And if streamers continue to binge these original series, then investors can expect Netflix to keep spending heavily to keep that pipeline of new content as full as possible.</p>
<p>Healthcare titan Johnson &amp; Johnson will announce its results before the market opens on Tuesday. Investors are optimistic that both sales and profits will increase at a robust pace this quarter. After all, the blue chip was able to overcome falling sales of its core Remicade drug last year to post a 6% increase in organic revenue. Each of its three massive business lines -- consumer products, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices -- expanded in 2017.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>Johnson &amp; Johnson has <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2018/03/14/forget-remicade-heres-how-johnson-johnson-plans-to.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">many more drugs in development Opens a New Window.</a> that will help pick up the slack in its Remicade declines this year. Investors should look for CEO Alex Gorsky and his team to discuss that pipeline on Tuesday while also highlighting the company's stellar cash flow.</p>
<p>As for its latest operating forecast, the outlook calls for a growth slowdown in 2018 to between 3.5% and 4.5%. But management might tweak that prediction on Tuesday. Earnings, on the other hand, are expected to rise by as much as 9.6% for the full year to $8.20 per share.</p>
<p>Procter &amp; Gamble's stock has had an unusually weak run over the past five years, underperforming the market by nearly 50 percentage points. That's because while sales growth has accelerated in each of the last two fiscal years and profitability is reaching new highs, the consumer products giant has lost market share across key franchises like Gillette.</p>
<p>Investors voiced their displeasure about these trends by voting to elect activist shareholder Nelson Peltz to the board of directors. This Friday's earnings report will be the first one since the new board was seated, and so it might include the articulation of a strategic shift.</p>
<p>But the pressure to make aggressive changes will be greater if sales growth disappoints. Back in January, P&amp;G said that organic gains would come in at the low end of their guidance of 2% to 3%, which would translate into essentially no improvement over the prior year's <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2018/01/15/heres-where-things-went-wrong-for-procter-gamble-i.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">disappointing pace Opens a New Window.</a>.</p>
<p>Find out why Netflix is one of the 10 best stocks to buy now</p>
<p>Motley Fool co-founders Tom and David Gardner have spent more than a decade beating the market. (In fact, the newsletter they run, Motley Fool Stock Advisor, has tripled the market!*)</p>
<p>Tom and David just revealed their ten top stock picks for investors to buy right now. Netflix <a href="http://infotron.fool.com/infotrack/click?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fool.com%2Fmms%2Fmark%2Fe-sa-bbn-eg%3Faid%3D8867%26source%3Disaeditxt0000450%26ftm_cam%3Dsa-bbn-evergreen%26ftm_pit%3D6313%26ftm_veh%3Darticle_pitch&amp;impression=4dc6a689-8386-4ce6-a5fe-8dc191ac919f&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">is on the list Opens a New Window.</a> -- but there are nine others you may be overlooking.</p>
<p><a href="http://infotron.fool.com/infotrack/click?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fool.com%2Fmms%2Fmark%2Fe-sa-bbn-eg%3Faid%3D8867%26source%3Disaeditxt0000450%26ftm_cam%3Dsa-bbn-evergreen%26ftm_pit%3D6313%26ftm_veh%3Darticle_pitch&amp;impression=4dc6a689-8386-4ce6-a5fe-8dc191ac919f&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Click here to get access to the full list! Opens a New Window.</a></p>
<p>*Stock Advisor returns as of April 2, 2018</p>
<p><a href="http://my.fool.com/profile/TMFSigma/info.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Demitrios Kalogeropoulos Opens a New Window.</a> owns shares of Netflix. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Johnson &amp; Johnson and Netflix. The Motley Fool has the following options: short May 2018 $140 calls on Johnson &amp; Johnson. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/Legal/fool-disclosure-policy.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;referring_guid=30af9ee5-66e0-4862-bf05-799d8e2d40c9&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p> | 599,148 |
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>The May payroll jobs report released June 2 by the Bureau of Labor Statistics confirms the jobs pattern for the 21st century US economy: employment growth is limited to domestic services.</p>
<p>In May the economy created only 67,000 private sector jobs. Job estimates for the previous two months were reduced by 37,000.</p>
<p>The new jobs are as follows: professional and business services, 27,000; education and health services, 41,000; waitresses and bartenders, 10,000. Manufacturing lost 14,000 jobs.</p>
<p>Total hours worked in the private sector declined in May. Manufacturing hours worked are 6.6 percent less than when the recovery began four and one-half years ago.</p>
<p>American economists and policymakers are in denial about the effect of jobs offshoring on US employment. Corporate lobbyists have purchased fraudulent studies from economists that claim offshoring results in more US employment rather than less. The same lobbyists have spread disinformation that the US does not graduate enough engineers and that they must import foreigners on work visas. Lobbyists are currently pushing, as part of the immigration bill, an expansion in annual H-1B work visas from 65,000 to 115,000.</p>
<p>The alleged “shortage” of US engineering graduates is inconsistent with reports from Duke University that 30 to 40 percent of students in its master’s of engineering management program accept jobs outside the profession. About one-third of engineering graduates from MIT go into careers outside their field. Job outsourcing and work visas for foreign engineers are reducing career opportunities for American engineering graduates and, also, reducing salary scales.</p>
<p>When employers allege a shortage of engineers, they mean that there is a shortage of American graduates who will work for the low salaries that foreigners will accept. Americans are simply being forced out of the engineering professions by jobs outsourcing and the importation of foreigners on work visas. Corporate lobbyists and their hired economists are destroying the American engineering professions.</p>
<p>American engineering is also under pressure because corporations have moved manufacturing offshore. Design, research and development are now following manufacturing offshore. A country that doesn’t make things doesn’t need engineers and designers. Corporations that have moved manufacturing offshore fund R&amp;D in the countries where their plants have been relocated.</p>
<p>Engineering curriculums are demanding. The rewards to the effort are being squeezed out by jobs offshoring and work visas. If the current policy continues of substituting foreign engineers for American engineers, the profession will die in the US.</p>
<p>PAUL CRAIG ROBERTS was Assistant Secretary of the Treasury in the Reagan administration. He was Associate Editor of the Wall Street Journal editorial page and Contributing Editor of National Review. He is coauthor of <a href="" type="internal">The Tyranny of Good Intentions.</a>He can be reached at: <a href="mailto:[email protected]" type="external">[email protected]</a></p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p> | The Death of US Engineering | true | https://counterpunch.org/2006/06/06/the-death-of-us-engineering/ | 2006-06-06 | 4left
| The Death of US Engineering
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>The May payroll jobs report released June 2 by the Bureau of Labor Statistics confirms the jobs pattern for the 21st century US economy: employment growth is limited to domestic services.</p>
<p>In May the economy created only 67,000 private sector jobs. Job estimates for the previous two months were reduced by 37,000.</p>
<p>The new jobs are as follows: professional and business services, 27,000; education and health services, 41,000; waitresses and bartenders, 10,000. Manufacturing lost 14,000 jobs.</p>
<p>Total hours worked in the private sector declined in May. Manufacturing hours worked are 6.6 percent less than when the recovery began four and one-half years ago.</p>
<p>American economists and policymakers are in denial about the effect of jobs offshoring on US employment. Corporate lobbyists have purchased fraudulent studies from economists that claim offshoring results in more US employment rather than less. The same lobbyists have spread disinformation that the US does not graduate enough engineers and that they must import foreigners on work visas. Lobbyists are currently pushing, as part of the immigration bill, an expansion in annual H-1B work visas from 65,000 to 115,000.</p>
<p>The alleged “shortage” of US engineering graduates is inconsistent with reports from Duke University that 30 to 40 percent of students in its master’s of engineering management program accept jobs outside the profession. About one-third of engineering graduates from MIT go into careers outside their field. Job outsourcing and work visas for foreign engineers are reducing career opportunities for American engineering graduates and, also, reducing salary scales.</p>
<p>When employers allege a shortage of engineers, they mean that there is a shortage of American graduates who will work for the low salaries that foreigners will accept. Americans are simply being forced out of the engineering professions by jobs outsourcing and the importation of foreigners on work visas. Corporate lobbyists and their hired economists are destroying the American engineering professions.</p>
<p>American engineering is also under pressure because corporations have moved manufacturing offshore. Design, research and development are now following manufacturing offshore. A country that doesn’t make things doesn’t need engineers and designers. Corporations that have moved manufacturing offshore fund R&amp;D in the countries where their plants have been relocated.</p>
<p>Engineering curriculums are demanding. The rewards to the effort are being squeezed out by jobs offshoring and work visas. If the current policy continues of substituting foreign engineers for American engineers, the profession will die in the US.</p>
<p>PAUL CRAIG ROBERTS was Assistant Secretary of the Treasury in the Reagan administration. He was Associate Editor of the Wall Street Journal editorial page and Contributing Editor of National Review. He is coauthor of <a href="" type="internal">The Tyranny of Good Intentions.</a>He can be reached at: <a href="mailto:[email protected]" type="external">[email protected]</a></p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p> | 599,149 |
<p>Oxford, England.</p>
<p>A June 3rd poll conducted by Near East Consulting based in Ramallah, Palestine shows that the overwhelming majority of Palestinians support the Prisoner’s Agreement, an inter-factional agreement signed by one member each of Fatah, Hamas, Islamic Jihad, the PFLP, and the DFLP inside Israel’s Hadarim prison this past May. (1) The document implicitly recognizes Israel by accepting, among other things, a Palestinian state in the lands occupied by Israel in the June 1967 war.</p>
<p>News reports have paid a lot of attention to the Prisoner’s Agreement in part because it accepts the Arab League initiative (Saudi Plan) unanimously adopted by the Arab states in Beirut in 2002 at the height of the Second Intifada. By calling for an independent Palestinian state on the ë67 lines in return for peace with Israel, both the Saudi Plan and the Prisoner’s Agreement echo the international consensus on Palestine since the mid 1970s. Israel has completely ignored the Arab initiative despite overwhelming support among the Palestinians.</p>
<p>But the Prisoner’s Agreement has also become the focal point of the most recent crisis in internal Palestinian politics: Palestinian Authority president and Fatah deputy leader Mahmoud Abbas has called for a national referendum on the document should Hamas fail to adopt it as part of their official program. So far, Hamas has refused and has labeled Abbas’ actions “illegal.”</p>
<p>Not surprisingly, there is more to the referendum story than ever makes it into the press. In this case, the information omitted from the public record makes it possible for the United States, Israel and their allies to continue to justify the economic siege imposed on the Palestinian territories, a siege that is causing Palestinian society to teeter on the brink of ruin. In their rush to push forward a regional, pro-US and anti-democratic agenda, those states allied against the Palestine national movement (including Egypt and Jordan) have created the kind of humanitarian crisis one would expect to find as the result of a natural disaster.</p>
<p>No attention has been paid to what the Hamas leadership is actually saying, or to critical factors such as US efforts to build a 3,500 man militia around the office of Abbas in an effort to encourage civil infighting or Israel’s recent approval of a large shipment of arms and ammunition from Egypt and Jordan for the equipping of the Presidential Guard. Abbas, who is supported by the US, aims to increase the number of armed soldiers around him to 10,000. He is also aiming, with US support, to create a shadow government that will undermine the legitimate one now controlled by Hamas.(2) It should come as a surprise to no one that, in the words of Mohammed Nazzal, a member of the Hamas government in exile, “Hamas will not submit to blackmail” (3) This is essentially the goal of Abbas’ call for a referendum. There is no need to bring to a popular vote support for the Prisoner’s Agreement. Overwhelming popular support for this and other initiatives, including support for the two-state solution, has long been documented.</p>
<p>Most of the rhetoric damns Hamas for refusing to follow Abbas’ instructions. Hamas remains the reason why states should support the economic and political blockade on Palestine although this does little more than fuel the “War on Terror” by adding another organization to the blacklist of regional enemies. Labeling Hamas a “terrorist organization” obscures the reality, however. Its political leadership and its electoral/government program (i.e. not its Charter) have put forth both reasonable and moderate demands. Acceptance of an independent Palestinian state has long been part of its strategic agenda. Its reputation as a “rejectionist” movement stems in part from its unwillingness to act alone, without reciprocal moves by Israel, a state whose extremist policies over the past 5 decades have transformed the physical landscape of Palestine so dramatically that the prospects for a genuine peace settlement today are bleaker than ever.</p>
<p>In his latest comments on Abbas’ decision to call the referendum, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert summed up his government’s view of this effort insofar as it could create a bridge toward peace talks with Israel. He said, “The referendum is an internal game between one faction and the other…. It is meaningless in terms of the broad picture of chances towards some kind of dialogue between us and the Palestinians. It’s meaningless.” (4) Whether the referendum ësucceeds’ or ëfails’ therefore, will be of no consequence whatsoever in efforts to resume negotiations or as form of leverage to end the deadly siege on the territories.</p>
<p>II. Hamas accepts a two-state solution. When asked by Newsweek-Washington Post correspondent Lally Weymouth on 26 February 2006 what agreements Hamas was prepared to honor, the new Hamas Prime Minister, Ismail Haniyeh answered, “the ones that will guarantee the establishment of a Palestinian State with Jerusalem as its capital with 1967 borders.” Weymouth went on, “Will you recognize Israel?” to which Haniyeh responded, “If Israel declares that it will give the Palestinian people a state and give them back all their rights then we are ready to recognize them.” (5) This view encapsulates the Hamas demand for reciprocity.</p>
<p>In an interview with CNN’s Wolf Blitzer four days after the PLC elections, the new Hamas Foreign Minister, Mahmoud Zahar (considered the party’s hard-liner) remarked, “We can accept to establish our independent state on the area occupied [in] 1967.” Like Haniyeh and other Hamas members, Zahar insists that once such a state is established a long-term truce “lasting as long as 10, 20 or 100 years” will ensue ending the state of armed conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. (6)</p>
<p>Hamas government spokesman Ghazi Hamad commented to reporters on 10 May 2006, “Yes, we accept an independent state in the Palestinian territories occupied by Israel in the 1967 Middle East War. This attitude is not new and it is declared in the government’s platform.” (7)</p>
<p>In an effort to clarify the Hamas position on Abbas’ call for a referendum, Hamas parliamentary speaker Aziz Duweik explained that it had nothing to do with a lack of support for the two-state settlement. “Everybody in Hamas says ëYes’ to the two-state solution,” he said. “The problem comes from the fact that the Israelis so far [have not said they] accept the 1967 bordersÖbetween the two states.”(8)</p>
<p>Other leaders are just as explicit. “Hamas is clear in terms of the historical solution and an interim solution. We are ready for both: the borders of 1967, a state, elections, and agreement after 10-15 years of building trust,” commented Usama Hamdan, the Hamas Chief Representative in Lebanon. (9) Notable here is that his remarks were made in 2003 well before the Hamas victory of January 2006. Indeed, it should be pointed out that most of the on-the-record comments to this effect were made prior to these elections.</p>
<p>Additional Hamas spokespersons who have made explicit reference to acceptance of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 lands include Sheikh Ahmad Haj Ali, a Muslim Brotherhood leader and Hamas legislative candidate currently imprisoned in Israel (interviewed in July 2005); Muhammad Ghazal, Hamas spokesperson also currently in an Israeli jail (Sept. 2005); Hasan Yousef, West Bank political leader (August 2005); and the Hamas Electoral Manifesto Article 5:1 which calls for “adherence to the goal of defeating the [1967] occupation and establishing an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.” (10)</p>
<p>In 1989, Hamas spiritual leader Sheikh Ahmad Yassin (assassinated by Israel in March 2004) stated, “I do not want to destroy IsraelÖ. We want to negotiate with Israel so the Palestinian people inside and outside Palestine can live in Palestine. Then the problem will cease to exist.” (11)</p>
<p>The hard-line Hamas leader, Abdel Aziz Rantisi, assassinated by Israel in April 2004 commented in 2002 that, “[T]he Intifada is about forcing Israel’s withdrawal to the 1967 borders.” This “doesn’t mean the Arab-Israeli conflict will be over,” but rather that the armed resistance to Israel would end.” (12)</p>
<p>In a 2004 report published by the highly regarded International Crisis Group, “During the 1987-1993 uprising, Hamas leaders proposed various formulas for Israeli withdrawal to the June 4th 1967 borders, to be reciprocated with a decades’-long truce (hudna).” That same report notes that, “In a March 1988 meeting with Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres, and then with Defense Minister Rabin in June 1989, Hamas leader (now FM) Mahmud Zahar explicitly proposed an Israeli withdrawal to the 1967 boundaries, to be followed by a negotiated permanent settlement.” The offer was refused. (13)</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>III. In a CounterPunch article posted on 24 February 2006, I wrote that the Hamas leadership had “clearly and repeatedly” called for an independent Palestinian state on the lands occupied by Israel in 1967. (14) I received numerous emails demanding “proof” of this assertion and calling me a traitor, a liar, a Nazi, a terrorist sympathizer and an anti-Semite. The statements included in this piece should help put to rest those accusations. Indeed, the statements made to this effect by Hamas members here are but a small sampling of similar statements made over the years that are part of the public (though unreported) record.</p>
<p>Surely, one can find many remarks by Hamas leaders over the years that are much less conciliatory, indeed even inflammatory and often disturbing. It would be misleading to suggest otherwise. Nonetheless the trend especially in the past few years up to the present has been toward a more conciliatory, indeed more realistic policy. As Crisis Group analyst Mouin Rabbani has written, “On Hamas I would not hesitate to say that the organization as a whole has essentially reconciled itself to a two-state settlement as a strategic option but has not formally adopted this as an organisational position. Yasin, Rantisi, Abu Shanab, Mashal, etc. have all made such statements. Have they made others that contradict them? Of course. But I think it can safely be concluded the strategic decisions have been made, the tactics remain unresolved and the formalities will come last.” The question for us is whether or not we will give Hamas the chance to translate their words into actions. Rabbani writes, “it would be as naÔve to take the above statements on faith as it would be foolish not to put them to the test.”(15)</p>
<p>As Menachem Klein points out in a recent Haaretz article, “The political texts of Hamas indicate that at present the organization is not fundamentalist.” (16) It has moved away from the ideological demands of its Charter into a pragmatism that seeks to respond to the demands of the day without falling into the same traps that Fatah and the Fatah-led PA fell into over the years. It has respected a one-sided truce for the past 16 months ñthough with the June 9th Israeli artillery attack on a north Gaza beach in which 7 civilians died, six of them from the same family, this truce may have come to an end. Hamas has also agreed to support negotiations between Abbas and Israel.</p>
<p>Hamas’ rejection of Abbas’ call for a referendum on the Prisoner’s Agreement has nothing to do with its willingness to accept an independent Palestinian state on ë67 lands and everything to do with its opposition to those in Fatah and in Israel, the US and EU who are doing everything in their power to bring down the Hamas governmentó and in the most depraved manner: by starving the population into submission and forcing on it the illegal diktats of anti-democratic warlords within the occupied Palestinian territories such as the US-backed Fatah militia leader and former head of the Preventive Security Services, Mohammad Dahlan.</p>
<p>In a June 8th 2006 article in the Financial Times, Henry Siegman commented on remarks made on Israeli television by Israeli security expert Ephraim Halevy. He writes, “Why should Israel care whether Hamas grants it the right to exist, Mr. Halevy asked. Israel exists and Hamas’s recognition or non-recognition neither adds to nor detracts from that irrefutable fact. But 40 years after the 1967 war, a Palestinian state does not exist. The politically consequential question, therefore, is whether Israel recognizes a Palestinian right to statehood, not the reverse.” (17)</p>
<p>Indeed, until Israel actively agrees to withdraw to the June 4th 1967 borders, Hamas should not fall into the trap that Fatah under Yassir Arafat fell intoó of conceding more and more for less and less until there is nothing left. Right now the US-backed annexation/cantonization program seems likely to bring the whole Palestinian tragedy to a hideous end. All the maneuverings are a cover for that, the whole discussion about the referendum included. Fatah should by now know better than to fall into the hands of US and Israeli overlords in its quest for local dominance. The fact that it does not should be reason enough for why it was voted out of power last January. Hamas has good reasons to demand that Israel, with US urging, show its good faith first. In the meantime Hamas’ continued opposition to Abbas’ dubious call for a referendum on the Prisoner’s Agreement is justified.</p>
<p>JENNIFER LOEWENSTEIN is a Visiting Research Fellow at Oxford University’s Refugee Studies Centre. She has lived and worked in Gaza City, Beirut and Jerusalem and has traveled extensively throughout the Middle East, where she has worked as a free-lance journalist and a human rights activist. She can be reached at: <a href="mailto:[email protected]" type="external">[email protected]</a></p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>ENDNOTES:</p>
<p>1 Press Release: <a href="http://www.neareastconsulting.com/" type="external">The Palestinian National Dialogue and call for a Referendum Survey #2</a>, 3 June 2006.</p>
<p>2. See “PA Chief Abbas aims to expand presidential guard,” by Ze’ev Schiff, <a href="http://www.haaretz.com/" type="external">Haaretz</a>, 28 May 2006. See also “Talking to Hamas,” by Alastair Crooke in Prospect, issue 123, June 2006.</p>
<p>3. Ibid, Ze’ev Schiff, Haaretz, 28 May 2006.</p>
<p>4. “Abbas sets Referendum for July 26; Hamas rejects Poll,” Mijal Grinberg and Assaf Uni, <a href="http://www.haaretz.com/" type="external">Haaretz</a>, 10 June 2006.</p>
<p>5. “We do not wish to throw them into the sea,” Interview between Lally Weymouth and Ismail Haniyeh in the Washington Post, Sunday 26 February 2006.</p>
<p>6. “ <a href="" type="internal">Hamas leader sets condition for truce</a>,” on CNN World website, 29 January 2006.</p>
<p>7. “ <a href="" type="internal">Abbas delays referendum decision</a>,” BBC News, Tuesday 6 June 2006.</p>
<p>8.. “ <a href="" type="internal">Hamas says ready to accept Palestinian statehood in 1967 border</a>,” in China View, 10 May 2006;</p>
<p>9. “ <a href="http://www.crisisgroup.org/" type="external">Enter Hamas: the challenges of political integration,</a>” International Crisis Group Report no. 49, Amman/Brussels; 18 January 2006. First edition (preliminary) report.</p>
<p>10. Ibid; The <a href="http://www.crisisgroup.org/" type="external">Hamas Electoral Manifesto</a> also states, “Yes to a free, independent and sovereign state on every portion of the West Bank, Gaza Strip and Jerusalem without conceding any part of historic Palestine.” This, of course, will raise red flags for some, which is why I include it here. I do not want to be accused of leaving out important statements or phrases. As with other statements, however, it must be measured against current realities both military and political.</p>
<p>11. “Dealing with Hamas,” International Crisis Group Report no. 21, Amman/Brussels; 26 January 2004. From an interview in An-Nahar (Jerusalem), 30 April 1989. Quoted in Ziad Abu Amr, Islamic Fundamentalism. Op. cit. p.76</p>
<p>12. “ <a href="http://www.crisisgroup.org/" type="external">Enter Hamas: the challenges of political integration</a>,” International Crisis Group report no. 49, 18 January 2006.</p>
<p>13. “ <a href="http://www.crisisgroup.org/" type="external">Dealing with Hamas</a>,” International Crisis Group report no. 21, 26 January 2004. Amman/Brussels.</p>
<p>14. “ <a href="https://www.counterpunch.org/" type="external">For Those Who Haven’t Noticed: Watching the Dissolution of Palestine</a>,” 24 February 2006; CounterPunch, edited by Alexander Cockburn and Jeffrey St. Clair.</p>
<p>15. Mouin Rabbani; personal correspondence. Also in “ <a href="http://www.crisisgroup.org/" type="external">Enter Hamas</a>” the ICG preliminary report on Hamas from 18 January 2006.</p>
<p>16. “Hamas’ Contradictory Voices,” by Menachem Klein, Haaretz, 2 June 2006.</p>
<p>17. “The Issue is not Whether Hamas Recognizes Israel,” by Henry Siegman, Financial Times, 8 June 2006.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p> | Setting the Record Straight on Hamas | true | https://counterpunch.org/2006/06/12/setting-the-record-straight-on-hamas/ | 2006-06-12 | 4left
| Setting the Record Straight on Hamas
<p>Oxford, England.</p>
<p>A June 3rd poll conducted by Near East Consulting based in Ramallah, Palestine shows that the overwhelming majority of Palestinians support the Prisoner’s Agreement, an inter-factional agreement signed by one member each of Fatah, Hamas, Islamic Jihad, the PFLP, and the DFLP inside Israel’s Hadarim prison this past May. (1) The document implicitly recognizes Israel by accepting, among other things, a Palestinian state in the lands occupied by Israel in the June 1967 war.</p>
<p>News reports have paid a lot of attention to the Prisoner’s Agreement in part because it accepts the Arab League initiative (Saudi Plan) unanimously adopted by the Arab states in Beirut in 2002 at the height of the Second Intifada. By calling for an independent Palestinian state on the ë67 lines in return for peace with Israel, both the Saudi Plan and the Prisoner’s Agreement echo the international consensus on Palestine since the mid 1970s. Israel has completely ignored the Arab initiative despite overwhelming support among the Palestinians.</p>
<p>But the Prisoner’s Agreement has also become the focal point of the most recent crisis in internal Palestinian politics: Palestinian Authority president and Fatah deputy leader Mahmoud Abbas has called for a national referendum on the document should Hamas fail to adopt it as part of their official program. So far, Hamas has refused and has labeled Abbas’ actions “illegal.”</p>
<p>Not surprisingly, there is more to the referendum story than ever makes it into the press. In this case, the information omitted from the public record makes it possible for the United States, Israel and their allies to continue to justify the economic siege imposed on the Palestinian territories, a siege that is causing Palestinian society to teeter on the brink of ruin. In their rush to push forward a regional, pro-US and anti-democratic agenda, those states allied against the Palestine national movement (including Egypt and Jordan) have created the kind of humanitarian crisis one would expect to find as the result of a natural disaster.</p>
<p>No attention has been paid to what the Hamas leadership is actually saying, or to critical factors such as US efforts to build a 3,500 man militia around the office of Abbas in an effort to encourage civil infighting or Israel’s recent approval of a large shipment of arms and ammunition from Egypt and Jordan for the equipping of the Presidential Guard. Abbas, who is supported by the US, aims to increase the number of armed soldiers around him to 10,000. He is also aiming, with US support, to create a shadow government that will undermine the legitimate one now controlled by Hamas.(2) It should come as a surprise to no one that, in the words of Mohammed Nazzal, a member of the Hamas government in exile, “Hamas will not submit to blackmail” (3) This is essentially the goal of Abbas’ call for a referendum. There is no need to bring to a popular vote support for the Prisoner’s Agreement. Overwhelming popular support for this and other initiatives, including support for the two-state solution, has long been documented.</p>
<p>Most of the rhetoric damns Hamas for refusing to follow Abbas’ instructions. Hamas remains the reason why states should support the economic and political blockade on Palestine although this does little more than fuel the “War on Terror” by adding another organization to the blacklist of regional enemies. Labeling Hamas a “terrorist organization” obscures the reality, however. Its political leadership and its electoral/government program (i.e. not its Charter) have put forth both reasonable and moderate demands. Acceptance of an independent Palestinian state has long been part of its strategic agenda. Its reputation as a “rejectionist” movement stems in part from its unwillingness to act alone, without reciprocal moves by Israel, a state whose extremist policies over the past 5 decades have transformed the physical landscape of Palestine so dramatically that the prospects for a genuine peace settlement today are bleaker than ever.</p>
<p>In his latest comments on Abbas’ decision to call the referendum, Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert summed up his government’s view of this effort insofar as it could create a bridge toward peace talks with Israel. He said, “The referendum is an internal game between one faction and the other…. It is meaningless in terms of the broad picture of chances towards some kind of dialogue between us and the Palestinians. It’s meaningless.” (4) Whether the referendum ësucceeds’ or ëfails’ therefore, will be of no consequence whatsoever in efforts to resume negotiations or as form of leverage to end the deadly siege on the territories.</p>
<p>II. Hamas accepts a two-state solution. When asked by Newsweek-Washington Post correspondent Lally Weymouth on 26 February 2006 what agreements Hamas was prepared to honor, the new Hamas Prime Minister, Ismail Haniyeh answered, “the ones that will guarantee the establishment of a Palestinian State with Jerusalem as its capital with 1967 borders.” Weymouth went on, “Will you recognize Israel?” to which Haniyeh responded, “If Israel declares that it will give the Palestinian people a state and give them back all their rights then we are ready to recognize them.” (5) This view encapsulates the Hamas demand for reciprocity.</p>
<p>In an interview with CNN’s Wolf Blitzer four days after the PLC elections, the new Hamas Foreign Minister, Mahmoud Zahar (considered the party’s hard-liner) remarked, “We can accept to establish our independent state on the area occupied [in] 1967.” Like Haniyeh and other Hamas members, Zahar insists that once such a state is established a long-term truce “lasting as long as 10, 20 or 100 years” will ensue ending the state of armed conflict between Israelis and Palestinians. (6)</p>
<p>Hamas government spokesman Ghazi Hamad commented to reporters on 10 May 2006, “Yes, we accept an independent state in the Palestinian territories occupied by Israel in the 1967 Middle East War. This attitude is not new and it is declared in the government’s platform.” (7)</p>
<p>In an effort to clarify the Hamas position on Abbas’ call for a referendum, Hamas parliamentary speaker Aziz Duweik explained that it had nothing to do with a lack of support for the two-state settlement. “Everybody in Hamas says ëYes’ to the two-state solution,” he said. “The problem comes from the fact that the Israelis so far [have not said they] accept the 1967 bordersÖbetween the two states.”(8)</p>
<p>Other leaders are just as explicit. “Hamas is clear in terms of the historical solution and an interim solution. We are ready for both: the borders of 1967, a state, elections, and agreement after 10-15 years of building trust,” commented Usama Hamdan, the Hamas Chief Representative in Lebanon. (9) Notable here is that his remarks were made in 2003 well before the Hamas victory of January 2006. Indeed, it should be pointed out that most of the on-the-record comments to this effect were made prior to these elections.</p>
<p>Additional Hamas spokespersons who have made explicit reference to acceptance of an independent Palestinian state on the 1967 lands include Sheikh Ahmad Haj Ali, a Muslim Brotherhood leader and Hamas legislative candidate currently imprisoned in Israel (interviewed in July 2005); Muhammad Ghazal, Hamas spokesperson also currently in an Israeli jail (Sept. 2005); Hasan Yousef, West Bank political leader (August 2005); and the Hamas Electoral Manifesto Article 5:1 which calls for “adherence to the goal of defeating the [1967] occupation and establishing an independent Palestinian state with Jerusalem as its capital.” (10)</p>
<p>In 1989, Hamas spiritual leader Sheikh Ahmad Yassin (assassinated by Israel in March 2004) stated, “I do not want to destroy IsraelÖ. We want to negotiate with Israel so the Palestinian people inside and outside Palestine can live in Palestine. Then the problem will cease to exist.” (11)</p>
<p>The hard-line Hamas leader, Abdel Aziz Rantisi, assassinated by Israel in April 2004 commented in 2002 that, “[T]he Intifada is about forcing Israel’s withdrawal to the 1967 borders.” This “doesn’t mean the Arab-Israeli conflict will be over,” but rather that the armed resistance to Israel would end.” (12)</p>
<p>In a 2004 report published by the highly regarded International Crisis Group, “During the 1987-1993 uprising, Hamas leaders proposed various formulas for Israeli withdrawal to the June 4th 1967 borders, to be reciprocated with a decades’-long truce (hudna).” That same report notes that, “In a March 1988 meeting with Israeli Foreign Minister Shimon Peres, and then with Defense Minister Rabin in June 1989, Hamas leader (now FM) Mahmud Zahar explicitly proposed an Israeli withdrawal to the 1967 boundaries, to be followed by a negotiated permanent settlement.” The offer was refused. (13)</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>III. In a CounterPunch article posted on 24 February 2006, I wrote that the Hamas leadership had “clearly and repeatedly” called for an independent Palestinian state on the lands occupied by Israel in 1967. (14) I received numerous emails demanding “proof” of this assertion and calling me a traitor, a liar, a Nazi, a terrorist sympathizer and an anti-Semite. The statements included in this piece should help put to rest those accusations. Indeed, the statements made to this effect by Hamas members here are but a small sampling of similar statements made over the years that are part of the public (though unreported) record.</p>
<p>Surely, one can find many remarks by Hamas leaders over the years that are much less conciliatory, indeed even inflammatory and often disturbing. It would be misleading to suggest otherwise. Nonetheless the trend especially in the past few years up to the present has been toward a more conciliatory, indeed more realistic policy. As Crisis Group analyst Mouin Rabbani has written, “On Hamas I would not hesitate to say that the organization as a whole has essentially reconciled itself to a two-state settlement as a strategic option but has not formally adopted this as an organisational position. Yasin, Rantisi, Abu Shanab, Mashal, etc. have all made such statements. Have they made others that contradict them? Of course. But I think it can safely be concluded the strategic decisions have been made, the tactics remain unresolved and the formalities will come last.” The question for us is whether or not we will give Hamas the chance to translate their words into actions. Rabbani writes, “it would be as naÔve to take the above statements on faith as it would be foolish not to put them to the test.”(15)</p>
<p>As Menachem Klein points out in a recent Haaretz article, “The political texts of Hamas indicate that at present the organization is not fundamentalist.” (16) It has moved away from the ideological demands of its Charter into a pragmatism that seeks to respond to the demands of the day without falling into the same traps that Fatah and the Fatah-led PA fell into over the years. It has respected a one-sided truce for the past 16 months ñthough with the June 9th Israeli artillery attack on a north Gaza beach in which 7 civilians died, six of them from the same family, this truce may have come to an end. Hamas has also agreed to support negotiations between Abbas and Israel.</p>
<p>Hamas’ rejection of Abbas’ call for a referendum on the Prisoner’s Agreement has nothing to do with its willingness to accept an independent Palestinian state on ë67 lands and everything to do with its opposition to those in Fatah and in Israel, the US and EU who are doing everything in their power to bring down the Hamas governmentó and in the most depraved manner: by starving the population into submission and forcing on it the illegal diktats of anti-democratic warlords within the occupied Palestinian territories such as the US-backed Fatah militia leader and former head of the Preventive Security Services, Mohammad Dahlan.</p>
<p>In a June 8th 2006 article in the Financial Times, Henry Siegman commented on remarks made on Israeli television by Israeli security expert Ephraim Halevy. He writes, “Why should Israel care whether Hamas grants it the right to exist, Mr. Halevy asked. Israel exists and Hamas’s recognition or non-recognition neither adds to nor detracts from that irrefutable fact. But 40 years after the 1967 war, a Palestinian state does not exist. The politically consequential question, therefore, is whether Israel recognizes a Palestinian right to statehood, not the reverse.” (17)</p>
<p>Indeed, until Israel actively agrees to withdraw to the June 4th 1967 borders, Hamas should not fall into the trap that Fatah under Yassir Arafat fell intoó of conceding more and more for less and less until there is nothing left. Right now the US-backed annexation/cantonization program seems likely to bring the whole Palestinian tragedy to a hideous end. All the maneuverings are a cover for that, the whole discussion about the referendum included. Fatah should by now know better than to fall into the hands of US and Israeli overlords in its quest for local dominance. The fact that it does not should be reason enough for why it was voted out of power last January. Hamas has good reasons to demand that Israel, with US urging, show its good faith first. In the meantime Hamas’ continued opposition to Abbas’ dubious call for a referendum on the Prisoner’s Agreement is justified.</p>
<p>JENNIFER LOEWENSTEIN is a Visiting Research Fellow at Oxford University’s Refugee Studies Centre. She has lived and worked in Gaza City, Beirut and Jerusalem and has traveled extensively throughout the Middle East, where she has worked as a free-lance journalist and a human rights activist. She can be reached at: <a href="mailto:[email protected]" type="external">[email protected]</a></p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>ENDNOTES:</p>
<p>1 Press Release: <a href="http://www.neareastconsulting.com/" type="external">The Palestinian National Dialogue and call for a Referendum Survey #2</a>, 3 June 2006.</p>
<p>2. See “PA Chief Abbas aims to expand presidential guard,” by Ze’ev Schiff, <a href="http://www.haaretz.com/" type="external">Haaretz</a>, 28 May 2006. See also “Talking to Hamas,” by Alastair Crooke in Prospect, issue 123, June 2006.</p>
<p>3. Ibid, Ze’ev Schiff, Haaretz, 28 May 2006.</p>
<p>4. “Abbas sets Referendum for July 26; Hamas rejects Poll,” Mijal Grinberg and Assaf Uni, <a href="http://www.haaretz.com/" type="external">Haaretz</a>, 10 June 2006.</p>
<p>5. “We do not wish to throw them into the sea,” Interview between Lally Weymouth and Ismail Haniyeh in the Washington Post, Sunday 26 February 2006.</p>
<p>6. “ <a href="" type="internal">Hamas leader sets condition for truce</a>,” on CNN World website, 29 January 2006.</p>
<p>7. “ <a href="" type="internal">Abbas delays referendum decision</a>,” BBC News, Tuesday 6 June 2006.</p>
<p>8.. “ <a href="" type="internal">Hamas says ready to accept Palestinian statehood in 1967 border</a>,” in China View, 10 May 2006;</p>
<p>9. “ <a href="http://www.crisisgroup.org/" type="external">Enter Hamas: the challenges of political integration,</a>” International Crisis Group Report no. 49, Amman/Brussels; 18 January 2006. First edition (preliminary) report.</p>
<p>10. Ibid; The <a href="http://www.crisisgroup.org/" type="external">Hamas Electoral Manifesto</a> also states, “Yes to a free, independent and sovereign state on every portion of the West Bank, Gaza Strip and Jerusalem without conceding any part of historic Palestine.” This, of course, will raise red flags for some, which is why I include it here. I do not want to be accused of leaving out important statements or phrases. As with other statements, however, it must be measured against current realities both military and political.</p>
<p>11. “Dealing with Hamas,” International Crisis Group Report no. 21, Amman/Brussels; 26 January 2004. From an interview in An-Nahar (Jerusalem), 30 April 1989. Quoted in Ziad Abu Amr, Islamic Fundamentalism. Op. cit. p.76</p>
<p>12. “ <a href="http://www.crisisgroup.org/" type="external">Enter Hamas: the challenges of political integration</a>,” International Crisis Group report no. 49, 18 January 2006.</p>
<p>13. “ <a href="http://www.crisisgroup.org/" type="external">Dealing with Hamas</a>,” International Crisis Group report no. 21, 26 January 2004. Amman/Brussels.</p>
<p>14. “ <a href="https://www.counterpunch.org/" type="external">For Those Who Haven’t Noticed: Watching the Dissolution of Palestine</a>,” 24 February 2006; CounterPunch, edited by Alexander Cockburn and Jeffrey St. Clair.</p>
<p>15. Mouin Rabbani; personal correspondence. Also in “ <a href="http://www.crisisgroup.org/" type="external">Enter Hamas</a>” the ICG preliminary report on Hamas from 18 January 2006.</p>
<p>16. “Hamas’ Contradictory Voices,” by Menachem Klein, Haaretz, 2 June 2006.</p>
<p>17. “The Issue is not Whether Hamas Recognizes Israel,” by Henry Siegman, Financial Times, 8 June 2006.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p> | 599,150 |
<p><a href="http://pienews.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Mood.jpg" type="external" />The good news: a study found evidence that good news seems to make you feel better. The creepy news: if you have a Facebook account, you could have been an unwitting research subject in that study - or you could be one now. The study, - Experimental evidence of [?]</p>
<p />
<p><a href="http://www.theblaze.com/stories/2014/06/29/creepy-study-shows-facebook-can-tweak-your-moods-through-emotional-contagion/" type="external">Click here to view original web page at www.theblaze.com</a></p>
<p /> | Study Shows Facebook Can Tweak Moods Through 'Emotional Contagion' | true | http://politicalillusionsexposed.com/creepy-study-shows-facebook-can-tweak-your-moods-through-emotional-contagion/ | 0right
| Study Shows Facebook Can Tweak Moods Through 'Emotional Contagion'
<p><a href="http://pienews.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/Mood.jpg" type="external" />The good news: a study found evidence that good news seems to make you feel better. The creepy news: if you have a Facebook account, you could have been an unwitting research subject in that study - or you could be one now. The study, - Experimental evidence of [?]</p>
<p />
<p><a href="http://www.theblaze.com/stories/2014/06/29/creepy-study-shows-facebook-can-tweak-your-moods-through-emotional-contagion/" type="external">Click here to view original web page at www.theblaze.com</a></p>
<p /> | 599,151 |
|
<p>Sept. 5 (UPI) — The British government’s longtime mouse-hunting cat Larry’s position is being threatened by his rival Palmerston.</p>
<p>The Foreign Office cat Palmerston has placed pressure on Downing Street’s resident mouser, Larry, after a document released under Freedom of Information laws stated he <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/09/03/palmerston-puts-number-10-mouser-rival-larry-shame-foreign-office/?utm_source=dlvr.it&amp;utm_medium=twitter" type="external">killed at least 27 mice</a> since coming to the office last year.</p>
<p>Foreign Office officials say Palmerston’s count is likely much higher, while Larry was recently involved in a controversy after he was caught sparing a mouse’s life.</p>
<p>“The FCO does not keep an accurate figure for the amount of mice caught by Palmerston,” the office said. “This figure is likely to be much higher as these are only reported sightings.”</p>
<p>Palmerston, the black and white cat <a href="http://news.sky.com/story/foreign-offices-palmerston-is-mouser-in-chief-as-larry-catnaps-11018874" type="external">named after two-time prime minister Viscount Palmerston</a>, was adopted from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home by the Foreign Office from in 2016.</p>
<p>There have been unconfirmed reports of a feud between Palmerston and his predecessor Larry since the new cats arrival.</p>
<p>While Palmerston has impressed with his mouse hunting skills, Larry has been ridiculed for sleeping on his post and letting mice escape with their lives.</p>
<p>The Freedom of Information report also revealed that Palmerston is exclusively fed Whiskas cat food and the bills for his care are paid voluntarily by office staff.</p> | Palmerston the cat outshines rival Downing Street mouser Larry | false | https://newsline.com/palmerston-the-cat-outshines-rival-downing-street-mouser-larry/ | 2017-09-05 | 1right-center
| Palmerston the cat outshines rival Downing Street mouser Larry
<p>Sept. 5 (UPI) — The British government’s longtime mouse-hunting cat Larry’s position is being threatened by his rival Palmerston.</p>
<p>The Foreign Office cat Palmerston has placed pressure on Downing Street’s resident mouser, Larry, after a document released under Freedom of Information laws stated he <a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2017/09/03/palmerston-puts-number-10-mouser-rival-larry-shame-foreign-office/?utm_source=dlvr.it&amp;utm_medium=twitter" type="external">killed at least 27 mice</a> since coming to the office last year.</p>
<p>Foreign Office officials say Palmerston’s count is likely much higher, while Larry was recently involved in a controversy after he was caught sparing a mouse’s life.</p>
<p>“The FCO does not keep an accurate figure for the amount of mice caught by Palmerston,” the office said. “This figure is likely to be much higher as these are only reported sightings.”</p>
<p>Palmerston, the black and white cat <a href="http://news.sky.com/story/foreign-offices-palmerston-is-mouser-in-chief-as-larry-catnaps-11018874" type="external">named after two-time prime minister Viscount Palmerston</a>, was adopted from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home by the Foreign Office from in 2016.</p>
<p>There have been unconfirmed reports of a feud between Palmerston and his predecessor Larry since the new cats arrival.</p>
<p>While Palmerston has impressed with his mouse hunting skills, Larry has been ridiculed for sleeping on his post and letting mice escape with their lives.</p>
<p>The Freedom of Information report also revealed that Palmerston is exclusively fed Whiskas cat food and the bills for his care are paid voluntarily by office staff.</p> | 599,152 |
<p>The US Department of Justice's Ronald Davis (left) at a news conference with San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee and Police Chief Greg SuhrBen Margot/AP</p>
<p />
<p>Nearly two months after San Francisco police officers <a href="" type="internal">shot and killed</a> a 26-year-old black man named Mario Woods, officials at the US Department of Justice have <a href="http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/Default.asp?Item=2842" type="external">announced</a> that they will launch a comprehensive review of the police department’s policies and practices.</p>
<p>The federal review will “help identify key areas for improvement” in the department’s operational policies, training practices, and accountability procedures, Attorney General Loretta Lynch said in a statement released Monday.</p>
<p>The announcement comes amid a public outcry over Woods’s death last month, which sparked protests and prompted city officials to call for an independent investigation into the incident. On December 2, officers surrounded Woods on a sidewalk in the Bayview district neighborhood after identifying him as a possible suspect in a stabbing that took place earlier that day. The incident was recorded by several onlookers who uploaded cellphone footage to social media, attracting widespread attention.</p>
<p>One video showed Woods standing with his back against a wall, facing at least six officers pointing their guns at him. They ordered him to drop a knife. When Woods did not comply, officers fired bean bag pellets and pepper-sprayed him. At one point, Woods appeared to walk away from the officers, and seconds later multiple shots rang out. A total of five officers opened fire, San Francisco Police Chief Greg Suhr later told reporters. Woods was pronounced dead at the scene. The officers who fired their guns were placed on leave after the shooting but have <a href="http://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/matier-ross/article/S-F-cops-in-Mario-Woods-shooting-are-back-on-the-6769959.php" type="external">since returned</a> to desk duty. Woods’ family and supporters have demanded the firing of Suhr, who formerly headed the Bayview police station. Family members, who say Woods had struggled with mental health issues, have <a href="http://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2015/12/11/family-of-stabbing-suspect-killed-by-san-francisco-police-files-federal-lawsuit/" type="external">also filed</a> a federal wrongful death lawsuit against the city.</p>
<p>Several members of San Francisco’s board of supervisors, community leaders, and civil rights advocates <a href="http://www.sfexaminer.com/sf-board-of-supervisors-calls-for-federal-investigation-into-woods-shooting/" type="external">have called for</a> an independent investigation into Woods’ death and the department’s use-of-force policies. Suhr and San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee also jointly requested the federal review, according to the DOJ statement, and “have publicly committed to providing the resources necessary for its successful completion.”</p>
<p />
<p>The Justice Department’s review into the SFPD, however, differs significantly from the “ <a href="http://www.justice.gov/crt/special-litigation-section-cases-and-matters0#police" type="external">pattern and practice</a>” investigations into police departments such as those in Ferguson, Missouri, and Cleveland. Pattern-and-practice investigations, handled by the Civil Rights Division and meant to identify department-wide civil rights violations, typically result in court-ordered reforms that are monitored by a judge or a third party and sometimes last more than a decade. The SFPD review, led by the Office of Community Oriented Policing, will result in a report laying out recommended reforms as well as progress reports on their implementation. But those reviews tend to take place in a shorter time period, and the reforms are not legally binding.</p>
<p>Woods’s death&#160;is the latest in a <a href="https://www.aclunc.org/sites/default/wp-content/uploads/A%20Department%20in%20Denial%20-%20The%20San%20Francisco%20Police%20Department%27s%20Failure%20to%20Address%20Racial%20Profiling.pdf" type="external">long line</a> of controversies involving the San Francisco police and their use of force against citizens, particularly those suffering from mental health issues, and communities of color.</p>
<p>Some experts have already expressed concern that the DOJ’s current review of the SFPD does not go far enough.</p>
<p>“It doesn’t have the teeth that the Civil Rights’ Division investigation does,” Aaron Zisser, a former attorney for the division, <a href="http://www.sfexaminer.com/doj-to-launch-toothless-review-of-sfpd/" type="external">told</a> the San Francisco Examiner on Monday. The current review, Zisser said, was a strong indicator that there will not be a broader civil rights investigation.</p>
<p /> | The Feds Are Finally Investigating the San Francisco Police, But Here’s the Catch | true | https://motherjones.com/politics/2016/02/heres-why-justice-department-investigating-san-francisco-cops/ | 2016-02-02 | 4left
| The Feds Are Finally Investigating the San Francisco Police, But Here’s the Catch
<p>The US Department of Justice's Ronald Davis (left) at a news conference with San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee and Police Chief Greg SuhrBen Margot/AP</p>
<p />
<p>Nearly two months after San Francisco police officers <a href="" type="internal">shot and killed</a> a 26-year-old black man named Mario Woods, officials at the US Department of Justice have <a href="http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/Default.asp?Item=2842" type="external">announced</a> that they will launch a comprehensive review of the police department’s policies and practices.</p>
<p>The federal review will “help identify key areas for improvement” in the department’s operational policies, training practices, and accountability procedures, Attorney General Loretta Lynch said in a statement released Monday.</p>
<p>The announcement comes amid a public outcry over Woods’s death last month, which sparked protests and prompted city officials to call for an independent investigation into the incident. On December 2, officers surrounded Woods on a sidewalk in the Bayview district neighborhood after identifying him as a possible suspect in a stabbing that took place earlier that day. The incident was recorded by several onlookers who uploaded cellphone footage to social media, attracting widespread attention.</p>
<p>One video showed Woods standing with his back against a wall, facing at least six officers pointing their guns at him. They ordered him to drop a knife. When Woods did not comply, officers fired bean bag pellets and pepper-sprayed him. At one point, Woods appeared to walk away from the officers, and seconds later multiple shots rang out. A total of five officers opened fire, San Francisco Police Chief Greg Suhr later told reporters. Woods was pronounced dead at the scene. The officers who fired their guns were placed on leave after the shooting but have <a href="http://www.sfchronicle.com/bayarea/matier-ross/article/S-F-cops-in-Mario-Woods-shooting-are-back-on-the-6769959.php" type="external">since returned</a> to desk duty. Woods’ family and supporters have demanded the firing of Suhr, who formerly headed the Bayview police station. Family members, who say Woods had struggled with mental health issues, have <a href="http://sanfrancisco.cbslocal.com/2015/12/11/family-of-stabbing-suspect-killed-by-san-francisco-police-files-federal-lawsuit/" type="external">also filed</a> a federal wrongful death lawsuit against the city.</p>
<p>Several members of San Francisco’s board of supervisors, community leaders, and civil rights advocates <a href="http://www.sfexaminer.com/sf-board-of-supervisors-calls-for-federal-investigation-into-woods-shooting/" type="external">have called for</a> an independent investigation into Woods’ death and the department’s use-of-force policies. Suhr and San Francisco Mayor Ed Lee also jointly requested the federal review, according to the DOJ statement, and “have publicly committed to providing the resources necessary for its successful completion.”</p>
<p />
<p>The Justice Department’s review into the SFPD, however, differs significantly from the “ <a href="http://www.justice.gov/crt/special-litigation-section-cases-and-matters0#police" type="external">pattern and practice</a>” investigations into police departments such as those in Ferguson, Missouri, and Cleveland. Pattern-and-practice investigations, handled by the Civil Rights Division and meant to identify department-wide civil rights violations, typically result in court-ordered reforms that are monitored by a judge or a third party and sometimes last more than a decade. The SFPD review, led by the Office of Community Oriented Policing, will result in a report laying out recommended reforms as well as progress reports on their implementation. But those reviews tend to take place in a shorter time period, and the reforms are not legally binding.</p>
<p>Woods’s death&#160;is the latest in a <a href="https://www.aclunc.org/sites/default/wp-content/uploads/A%20Department%20in%20Denial%20-%20The%20San%20Francisco%20Police%20Department%27s%20Failure%20to%20Address%20Racial%20Profiling.pdf" type="external">long line</a> of controversies involving the San Francisco police and their use of force against citizens, particularly those suffering from mental health issues, and communities of color.</p>
<p>Some experts have already expressed concern that the DOJ’s current review of the SFPD does not go far enough.</p>
<p>“It doesn’t have the teeth that the Civil Rights’ Division investigation does,” Aaron Zisser, a former attorney for the division, <a href="http://www.sfexaminer.com/doj-to-launch-toothless-review-of-sfpd/" type="external">told</a> the San Francisco Examiner on Monday. The current review, Zisser said, was a strong indicator that there will not be a broader civil rights investigation.</p>
<p /> | 599,153 |
<p>Wall Street JournalKenneth Woodward, who spent 38 years at Newsweek as religion editor, says the magazine has "highly sensitive editors who frequently caught errors in my own copy." He adds: "My concern is that all Americans understand how deeply sacrilegious such an act as Newsweek described would be to Muslims, and why it is not like flushing pages from the Bible down the drain -- as Keith Olbermann on MSNBC and other commentators have suggested. The Quran is not 'the Bible' of Muslims. It is infinitely more sacred than that." &gt; <a href="http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/05138/506145.stm" type="external">Lemann suspects "scoop-mania" got Koran-flushing item in mag (PP-G)</a> &gt; <a href="http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050518/OPINION03/505180305/1110" type="external">Maybe DC press corps will stop using so many unnamed sources (DMR)</a> &gt; <a href="http://www.newsday.com/news/nationworld/nation/ny-usisik0518,0,3612823.story?coll=ny-top-headlines" type="external">Isikoff says he'll continue to probe "a very murky situation" (Newsday)</a> &gt; <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/chronicle/archive/2005/05/18/EDGPHCQ57I1.DTL" type="external">"Error is indefensible, especially considering the stakes" (SF Chronicle)</a> &gt; <a href="http://www.salon.com/opinion/feature/2005/05/18/newsweek/" type="external">Newsweek was quicker than CBS to look into the problem (Salon)</a> &gt; <a href="http://www.bostonphoenix.com/boston/news_features/dont_quote_me/multi-page/documents/04698947.asp" type="external">Kennedy: Newsweek's screw-up was a gift to conservatives (Phoenix)</a> &gt; <a href="http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=361595&amp;category=OPINION&amp;BCCode=&amp;newsdate=5/18/2005" type="external">Editorial: It's troubling that mag had Pentagon review the story (ATU)</a></p> | Writer won't pass judgment on Newsweek colleagues, but... | false | https://poynter.org/news/writer-wont-pass-judgment-newsweek-colleagues | 2005-05-18 | 2least
| Writer won't pass judgment on Newsweek colleagues, but...
<p>Wall Street JournalKenneth Woodward, who spent 38 years at Newsweek as religion editor, says the magazine has "highly sensitive editors who frequently caught errors in my own copy." He adds: "My concern is that all Americans understand how deeply sacrilegious such an act as Newsweek described would be to Muslims, and why it is not like flushing pages from the Bible down the drain -- as Keith Olbermann on MSNBC and other commentators have suggested. The Quran is not 'the Bible' of Muslims. It is infinitely more sacred than that." &gt; <a href="http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/05138/506145.stm" type="external">Lemann suspects "scoop-mania" got Koran-flushing item in mag (PP-G)</a> &gt; <a href="http://desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20050518/OPINION03/505180305/1110" type="external">Maybe DC press corps will stop using so many unnamed sources (DMR)</a> &gt; <a href="http://www.newsday.com/news/nationworld/nation/ny-usisik0518,0,3612823.story?coll=ny-top-headlines" type="external">Isikoff says he'll continue to probe "a very murky situation" (Newsday)</a> &gt; <a href="http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/chronicle/archive/2005/05/18/EDGPHCQ57I1.DTL" type="external">"Error is indefensible, especially considering the stakes" (SF Chronicle)</a> &gt; <a href="http://www.salon.com/opinion/feature/2005/05/18/newsweek/" type="external">Newsweek was quicker than CBS to look into the problem (Salon)</a> &gt; <a href="http://www.bostonphoenix.com/boston/news_features/dont_quote_me/multi-page/documents/04698947.asp" type="external">Kennedy: Newsweek's screw-up was a gift to conservatives (Phoenix)</a> &gt; <a href="http://timesunion.com/AspStories/story.asp?storyID=361595&amp;category=OPINION&amp;BCCode=&amp;newsdate=5/18/2005" type="external">Editorial: It's troubling that mag had Pentagon review the story (ATU)</a></p> | 599,154 |
<p>Milwaukee Journal Sentinel The 6,300-circulation Shawano (Wis.) Leader published a front-page correction and apology after reporting that Vince Biskupic "was convicted of accepting bribes to dismiss cases." (The reporter got <a href="http://www.vincebiskupic.com/about/" type="external">Biskupic</a> -- brother of USA Today Supreme Court reporter Joan Biskupic -- confused with another Wisconsin prosecutor.) One Leader correction "stopped just short of offering to have its reporters wash Biskupic's car," write Cary Spivak and Dan Bice, but Biskupic still sued for libel.</p> | Ex-prosecutor Biskupic sues small paper over bribe claim | false | https://poynter.org/news/ex-prosecutor-biskupic-sues-small-paper-over-bribe-claim | 2005-12-01 | 2least
| Ex-prosecutor Biskupic sues small paper over bribe claim
<p>Milwaukee Journal Sentinel The 6,300-circulation Shawano (Wis.) Leader published a front-page correction and apology after reporting that Vince Biskupic "was convicted of accepting bribes to dismiss cases." (The reporter got <a href="http://www.vincebiskupic.com/about/" type="external">Biskupic</a> -- brother of USA Today Supreme Court reporter Joan Biskupic -- confused with another Wisconsin prosecutor.) One Leader correction "stopped just short of offering to have its reporters wash Biskupic's car," write Cary Spivak and Dan Bice, but Biskupic still sued for libel.</p> | 599,155 |
<p>Assailants who streamed their attack live on Facebook, clockwise ,beginning upper left: T. Covington, Hill, B. Covington, Cooper.</p>
<p>Four African American adults in Chicago assaulted a young adult white man with special needs, and live-streamed the assault online. Their “fifteen minutes of fame” is likely to cost the assailants dearly: multiple charges have been filed against them. The attackers have been identified as Jordan Hill, Tesfaye Cooper, Brittany Covington, all 18 years of age, and Tanishia Covington, who is 24 years of age.</p>
<p>The Facebook video showed the man crouched in a corner of a room, tied up, with his mouth taped shut, and his eyes full of fear. One assailant slashed his sweatshirt with a knife. Another attacker took the knife and carved a patch of the man’s scalp. Repeatedly the man was kicked and punched; repeatedly he had his head forced into a toilet. Someone in the group shouted, &#160;&#160;“F–k white people!” and “F–k Donald Trump!” The man was held at knifepoint and told to curse Donald Trump.</p>
<p>When the group went to another apartment from which the resident complained about the noise the group was making, the man escaped. Police found him on the street, and although the weather was extremely cold, he was wearing only a tank top turned inside-out, shorts, and sandals. One police officer said of the man, “He was bloodied, he was battered, he was very discombobulated.”</p>
<p>The man is expected to recover from his injuries. He is at home with his parents. Facebook has pulled the original video. Members of the group have each been charged with a hate crime, felony aggravated kidnapping, aggravated unlawful restraint, and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.</p>
<p /> | Assault Horror Live-Streamed on Facebook | true | http://politicalblindspot.com/assault-horror-live-streamed-on-facebook/ | 2017-01-23 | 4left
| Assault Horror Live-Streamed on Facebook
<p>Assailants who streamed their attack live on Facebook, clockwise ,beginning upper left: T. Covington, Hill, B. Covington, Cooper.</p>
<p>Four African American adults in Chicago assaulted a young adult white man with special needs, and live-streamed the assault online. Their “fifteen minutes of fame” is likely to cost the assailants dearly: multiple charges have been filed against them. The attackers have been identified as Jordan Hill, Tesfaye Cooper, Brittany Covington, all 18 years of age, and Tanishia Covington, who is 24 years of age.</p>
<p>The Facebook video showed the man crouched in a corner of a room, tied up, with his mouth taped shut, and his eyes full of fear. One assailant slashed his sweatshirt with a knife. Another attacker took the knife and carved a patch of the man’s scalp. Repeatedly the man was kicked and punched; repeatedly he had his head forced into a toilet. Someone in the group shouted, &#160;&#160;“F–k white people!” and “F–k Donald Trump!” The man was held at knifepoint and told to curse Donald Trump.</p>
<p>When the group went to another apartment from which the resident complained about the noise the group was making, the man escaped. Police found him on the street, and although the weather was extremely cold, he was wearing only a tank top turned inside-out, shorts, and sandals. One police officer said of the man, “He was bloodied, he was battered, he was very discombobulated.”</p>
<p>The man is expected to recover from his injuries. He is at home with his parents. Facebook has pulled the original video. Members of the group have each been charged with a hate crime, felony aggravated kidnapping, aggravated unlawful restraint, and aggravated battery with a deadly weapon.</p>
<p /> | 599,156 |
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p>In this Friday, May 16, 2014 photo, a construction worker works on the site of the SoMa at Brickell apartment building in downtown Miami. The Labor Department reports revised figures for productivity in the first quarter on Wednesday, June 4, 2014. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)</p>
<p>WASHINGTON - U.S. productivity fell even more than previously thought in the January-March period while labor costs rose at a faster pace.</p>
<p>Productivity, the amount of output per hour of work, declined at an annual rate of 3.2 percent in the first quarter, the weakest showing since the beginning months of the recession in 2008, the Labor Department reported Wednesday. Unit labor costs rose at a 5.7 percent rate, the fastest pace in more than a year.</p>
<p>Rising labor costs and falling productivity can be a cause for concern if they are an indication that inflation is worsening. But the first quarter performance was seen as a temporary bump caused by an unusually harsh winter which caused the economy to go into reverse. A strong rebound is expected in the current quarter.</p>
<p>Initially, the government reported that productivity fell at a smaller 1.7 percent rate in the first quarter. The initial estimate put the rise in labor costs at a 4.2 percent rate.</p>
<p>The reason the numbers were revised was that the economy's overall output in the first quarter, as measured by the gross domestic product, was revised sharply lower. Instead of the GDP growing at a tiny 0.1 percent rate in the January-March period, the government reported last week that the economy actually shrank, falling at a 1 percent rate.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Analysts believe overall GDP will bounce back in the current April-June period and they also are looking for productivity to recover as well.</p>
<p>The Federal Reserve keeps close watch on productivity and labor costs for any signs that inflation is threatening to rise to an unacceptable rate. But economists say the Fed will see the first quarter weakness in productivity and rise in labor costs as temporary developments reflecting the harsh winter rather than an indication of the start of a worrisome trend.</p>
<p>Even with the first quarter spurt in labor costs, overall wage pressures remain mild, reflecting the long period it has taken the economy to regain the millions of jobs lost during the Great Recession.</p>
<p>Economists are looking for a rebound in economic growth in the April-June quarter to around 3.8 percent as warmer weather boosts consumer spending.</p>
<p>They expect further job gains will lift incomes and spur consumer spending in the second half of the year when they are forecasting the economy will be growing at a solid annual rate of around 3 percent.</p> | US productivity falls at 3.2 percent rate in 1Q | false | https://abqjournal.com/410614/us-productivity-falls-at-3-2-percent-rate-in-1q.html | 2least
| US productivity falls at 3.2 percent rate in 1Q
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p>In this Friday, May 16, 2014 photo, a construction worker works on the site of the SoMa at Brickell apartment building in downtown Miami. The Labor Department reports revised figures for productivity in the first quarter on Wednesday, June 4, 2014. (AP Photo/Lynne Sladky)</p>
<p>WASHINGTON - U.S. productivity fell even more than previously thought in the January-March period while labor costs rose at a faster pace.</p>
<p>Productivity, the amount of output per hour of work, declined at an annual rate of 3.2 percent in the first quarter, the weakest showing since the beginning months of the recession in 2008, the Labor Department reported Wednesday. Unit labor costs rose at a 5.7 percent rate, the fastest pace in more than a year.</p>
<p>Rising labor costs and falling productivity can be a cause for concern if they are an indication that inflation is worsening. But the first quarter performance was seen as a temporary bump caused by an unusually harsh winter which caused the economy to go into reverse. A strong rebound is expected in the current quarter.</p>
<p>Initially, the government reported that productivity fell at a smaller 1.7 percent rate in the first quarter. The initial estimate put the rise in labor costs at a 4.2 percent rate.</p>
<p>The reason the numbers were revised was that the economy's overall output in the first quarter, as measured by the gross domestic product, was revised sharply lower. Instead of the GDP growing at a tiny 0.1 percent rate in the January-March period, the government reported last week that the economy actually shrank, falling at a 1 percent rate.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Analysts believe overall GDP will bounce back in the current April-June period and they also are looking for productivity to recover as well.</p>
<p>The Federal Reserve keeps close watch on productivity and labor costs for any signs that inflation is threatening to rise to an unacceptable rate. But economists say the Fed will see the first quarter weakness in productivity and rise in labor costs as temporary developments reflecting the harsh winter rather than an indication of the start of a worrisome trend.</p>
<p>Even with the first quarter spurt in labor costs, overall wage pressures remain mild, reflecting the long period it has taken the economy to regain the millions of jobs lost during the Great Recession.</p>
<p>Economists are looking for a rebound in economic growth in the April-June quarter to around 3.8 percent as warmer weather boosts consumer spending.</p>
<p>They expect further job gains will lift incomes and spur consumer spending in the second half of the year when they are forecasting the economy will be growing at a solid annual rate of around 3 percent.</p> | 599,157 |
|
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>Ortiz sided with restaurant operators John and Cindy Jednak in a dispute with the Lamy Railroad and History Museum. He granted the Jednaks’ Learning Mind, Inc., a temporary injunction that “restores them back onto the premises,” said Brian Egolf, their attorney.</p>
<p>The museum, which owns the building that dates back to the 1880s, had ordered the Jednaks out last month. Museum officials said the restaurant became a bigger operation than had been expected and was encroaching on museum displays.</p>
<p>There were also disagreements over how much restaurant revenue should go to the museum and whether the museum board had taken any proper action to abrogate its September 2011 arrangement under which the Jednaks’ nonprofit could run the restaurant while providing 15 percent of gross revenues to the museum.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>The Jednaks recently filed suit and sought an injunction to overturn their eviction.</p>
<p>Egolf said that Ortiz found there is a valid concessionaire contract that allows the Jednaks to operate the Legal Tender.</p>
<p>He said the order should allow the restaurant and saloon to operate at least until the fall as the dispute heads toward trial – unless the museum board appeals.</p>
<p>Mark Kellerman, a representative of the museum, said after the lengthy court hearing that museum leaders disagree with Ortiz’s ruling and that the museum would consider its legal options. “We think he made an error,” Kellerman said.</p>
<p>Egolf said he believed Cindy Jednak was persuasive when she testified that operating the Legal Tender was not about money and that the business was a service to the community.</p>
<p>John Day, another attorney for the Jednaks, said keeping the restaurant going is “a huge victory for the community.”</p>
<p>“We’ve seen other local treasures shut down,” Day added. “It gives people hope.”</p>
<p>Day said the restaurant operators plan to reopen as soon as possible. After the hearing, the Jednaks started re-establishing various licenses, such as their beer and wine permit, Day said. He said the Legal Tender should reopen within a week to 10 days.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>The Legal Tender, which offered music and dancing, as well as meals, closed over Memorial Day weekend. The dispute over whether the Jednaks should continue running the restaurant has provoked a controversy in Lamy and beyond, as supporters lamented the loss of the Old West experience offered there.</p>
<p>Historic building</p>
<p>The museum building, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, dates to the 1880s and stands near the eastern terminus of the railroad spur between Santa Fe and Lamy.</p>
<p>It has been a saloon/restaurant for much of its history. The museum opened about six years ago after the building was donated by businessman Richard Fisher.</p>
<p>A museum board member last month said there was never a written agreement with the Jednaks.</p>
<p>Cindy Jednak, in an affidavit filed with the suit, said the agreement between Learning Mind and the museum “has been subject to several oral modifications, each of which was made part of a binding contract” through the restaurant’s “diligent and consistent performance of its obligations under the contract.”</p>
<p>Members of the museum board altered a proposed new agreement “to include myriad terms, conditions and requirements that were unacceptable to Learning Mind,” her affidavit stated.</p>
<p />
<p /> | Legal Tender allowed to reopen | false | https://abqjournal.com/212961/legal-tender-allowed-to-reopen.html | 2least
| Legal Tender allowed to reopen
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>Ortiz sided with restaurant operators John and Cindy Jednak in a dispute with the Lamy Railroad and History Museum. He granted the Jednaks’ Learning Mind, Inc., a temporary injunction that “restores them back onto the premises,” said Brian Egolf, their attorney.</p>
<p>The museum, which owns the building that dates back to the 1880s, had ordered the Jednaks out last month. Museum officials said the restaurant became a bigger operation than had been expected and was encroaching on museum displays.</p>
<p>There were also disagreements over how much restaurant revenue should go to the museum and whether the museum board had taken any proper action to abrogate its September 2011 arrangement under which the Jednaks’ nonprofit could run the restaurant while providing 15 percent of gross revenues to the museum.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>The Jednaks recently filed suit and sought an injunction to overturn their eviction.</p>
<p>Egolf said that Ortiz found there is a valid concessionaire contract that allows the Jednaks to operate the Legal Tender.</p>
<p>He said the order should allow the restaurant and saloon to operate at least until the fall as the dispute heads toward trial – unless the museum board appeals.</p>
<p>Mark Kellerman, a representative of the museum, said after the lengthy court hearing that museum leaders disagree with Ortiz’s ruling and that the museum would consider its legal options. “We think he made an error,” Kellerman said.</p>
<p>Egolf said he believed Cindy Jednak was persuasive when she testified that operating the Legal Tender was not about money and that the business was a service to the community.</p>
<p>John Day, another attorney for the Jednaks, said keeping the restaurant going is “a huge victory for the community.”</p>
<p>“We’ve seen other local treasures shut down,” Day added. “It gives people hope.”</p>
<p>Day said the restaurant operators plan to reopen as soon as possible. After the hearing, the Jednaks started re-establishing various licenses, such as their beer and wine permit, Day said. He said the Legal Tender should reopen within a week to 10 days.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>The Legal Tender, which offered music and dancing, as well as meals, closed over Memorial Day weekend. The dispute over whether the Jednaks should continue running the restaurant has provoked a controversy in Lamy and beyond, as supporters lamented the loss of the Old West experience offered there.</p>
<p>Historic building</p>
<p>The museum building, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, dates to the 1880s and stands near the eastern terminus of the railroad spur between Santa Fe and Lamy.</p>
<p>It has been a saloon/restaurant for much of its history. The museum opened about six years ago after the building was donated by businessman Richard Fisher.</p>
<p>A museum board member last month said there was never a written agreement with the Jednaks.</p>
<p>Cindy Jednak, in an affidavit filed with the suit, said the agreement between Learning Mind and the museum “has been subject to several oral modifications, each of which was made part of a binding contract” through the restaurant’s “diligent and consistent performance of its obligations under the contract.”</p>
<p>Members of the museum board altered a proposed new agreement “to include myriad terms, conditions and requirements that were unacceptable to Learning Mind,” her affidavit stated.</p>
<p />
<p /> | 599,158 |
|
<p>Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani teen shot in the head by Taliban, is awake and talking following two successful surgeries to repair her skull and help her hearing.</p>
<p>"Both operations were a success and Malala is now recovering in hospital. Her medical team are 'very pleased' with the progress she has made so far," the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/03/world/europe/uk-malala-surgery/index.html" type="external">said in a statement to CNN.</a> "She is awake and talking to staff and members of her family."</p>
<p>Doctors last week said that <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/30/world/europe/uk-malala-surgery/index.html" type="external">a titanium plate would be implanted</a> in the teenagers head to repair an opening in her skull. Malala has been treated as an outpatient at the British hospital since being discharged in January.</p>
<p>She was flown to the UK for treatment after being shot in the head by Taliban fighters in October 2012 while waking home from school in northwest Pakistan.</p>
<p>The Taliban said they targeted the teen because she was outspoken about girls' education and promoted "Western thinking".</p>
<p>Malala has been recovering well from her ordeal so far. <a href="//www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2013/02/20132317173477304.html" type="external">Doctors told Al Jazeera&#160;</a>that she is able to stand and write and is showing minimal signs of brain damage.</p>
<p>Malala and her family are expected to remain in the UK for some time after her father was appointed education attache at the Consulate of Pakistan for the next three years, <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-21313821" type="external">reports the BBC.</a></p>
<p>Watch her first interview here:&#160;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-21313821" type="external" /></p>
<p />
<p /> | Pakistan's Malala is awake, talking after difficult cranial surgery (VIDEO) | false | https://pri.org/stories/2013-02-03/pakistans-malala-awake-talking-after-difficult-cranial-surgery-video | 2013-02-03 | 3left-center
| Pakistan's Malala is awake, talking after difficult cranial surgery (VIDEO)
<p>Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani teen shot in the head by Taliban, is awake and talking following two successful surgeries to repair her skull and help her hearing.</p>
<p>"Both operations were a success and Malala is now recovering in hospital. Her medical team are 'very pleased' with the progress she has made so far," the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2013/02/03/world/europe/uk-malala-surgery/index.html" type="external">said in a statement to CNN.</a> "She is awake and talking to staff and members of her family."</p>
<p>Doctors last week said that <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2013/01/30/world/europe/uk-malala-surgery/index.html" type="external">a titanium plate would be implanted</a> in the teenagers head to repair an opening in her skull. Malala has been treated as an outpatient at the British hospital since being discharged in January.</p>
<p>She was flown to the UK for treatment after being shot in the head by Taliban fighters in October 2012 while waking home from school in northwest Pakistan.</p>
<p>The Taliban said they targeted the teen because she was outspoken about girls' education and promoted "Western thinking".</p>
<p>Malala has been recovering well from her ordeal so far. <a href="//www.aljazeera.com/news/asia/2013/02/20132317173477304.html" type="external">Doctors told Al Jazeera&#160;</a>that she is able to stand and write and is showing minimal signs of brain damage.</p>
<p>Malala and her family are expected to remain in the UK for some time after her father was appointed education attache at the Consulate of Pakistan for the next three years, <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-21313821" type="external">reports the BBC.</a></p>
<p>Watch her first interview here:&#160;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-birmingham-21313821" type="external" /></p>
<p />
<p /> | 599,159 |
<p>Senator Richard Burr&#160;at a private fundraising event on Thursday reportedly said that he would vote for Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders before he would vote for Tea party-leaning Ted Cruz. Burr has denied the statement, but the Associate Press who initially reported the story refuses the detract it, an indication that their source is rock solid.</p>
<p>Burr, a Republican senator from North Carolina is probably feeling quite a bit of heat from his party. He has since released a statement on Twitter saying that he would “support whoever the GOP nominee is,” but it appears that he has pulled that message as well.</p>
<p>It is well known that just about every elected official in the senate despises Cruz due to the government shutdown he led in 2014 which caused a great deal of negative press aimed at the Republican party. Cruz tried to shut the government down again in 2015, further fueling the fire of dislike.</p>
<p>Burr may be trying to retract his statement now, but it would not be surprising if he is not the only Republican to express a similar sentiment.&#160;When faced with the sort of hell-fire that Cruz preaches, more and more people are feeling the Bern instead.</p> | Republican Senator Says He Would Vote For Bernie Over Cruz | true | http://trofire.com/2016/01/22/republican-senator-says-he-would-vote-for-bernie-over-cruz/ | 4left
| Republican Senator Says He Would Vote For Bernie Over Cruz
<p>Senator Richard Burr&#160;at a private fundraising event on Thursday reportedly said that he would vote for Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders before he would vote for Tea party-leaning Ted Cruz. Burr has denied the statement, but the Associate Press who initially reported the story refuses the detract it, an indication that their source is rock solid.</p>
<p>Burr, a Republican senator from North Carolina is probably feeling quite a bit of heat from his party. He has since released a statement on Twitter saying that he would “support whoever the GOP nominee is,” but it appears that he has pulled that message as well.</p>
<p>It is well known that just about every elected official in the senate despises Cruz due to the government shutdown he led in 2014 which caused a great deal of negative press aimed at the Republican party. Cruz tried to shut the government down again in 2015, further fueling the fire of dislike.</p>
<p>Burr may be trying to retract his statement now, but it would not be surprising if he is not the only Republican to express a similar sentiment.&#160;When faced with the sort of hell-fire that Cruz preaches, more and more people are feeling the Bern instead.</p> | 599,160 |
|
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>China has overtaken the U.S. in terms of the number of its cinema screens, becoming the world’s biggest movie market by that measure. But away from the bigger cities you wouldn’t know it.</p>
<p>In this theater in a county seat near Beijing, the ticket-seller sitting behind the counter with nothing to do and a ticket-collector lying down watching films on his phone are signs something’s amiss with China’s non-stop building of cinemas.</p>
<p>Industry analysts foresee only more and more screens. But Zhuolu’s residents are typical of Chinese who are not in the habit of movie-going, preferring to watch films online for free.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“We don’t have many customers — only a couple on weekdays and a few dozen during the weekends,” said Wang Xudong, the manager of Zhuolu County Digital Cinema, which has three screens and 400 seats for a county of 350,000 people.</p>
<p>“Sometimes we rent the halls out for meetings to earn some money and then we can only break even,” said Wang, who also provides drum kits for cinema hall lessons for amateur musicians. Companies sometimes rent the halls for promotions of products such as health supplements and water dispensers.</p>
<p>China had fewer than 20,000 cinema screens in 2013, but it has now surpassed the U.S., which had 40,759 indoor and drive-in screens as of July, according to the Washington, D.C.-based National Association of Theatre Owners. As of Dec. 20, China had 40,917 screens, according to the national film bureau.</p>
<p>As the most populous country, at 1.4 billion, China’s cinema market still has plenty of room to grow as theater chains expand into smaller cities and rural areas.</p>
<p>Box office takings are still much smaller in China, at more than $6.5 billion in 2015, compared to $11 billion in North America, including cinema advertising revenue.</p>
<p>There are just 23 screens per million Chinese, compared to 125 per million in the U.S., according to IHS Markit, a London-based market researcher.</p>
<p>Analyst David Hancock estimates China’s screen density ratio will grow to about 57 screens per million over the next five to 10 years.</p>
<p>“The country is still under-screened, and there seems to be little reason to stop building screens where there are none,” Hancock said.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>China’s countryside had around 3,000 cinemas in 2016, out of 7,000 in the whole country, said Fu Yalong, research director at leading entertainment consultancy EntGroup.</p>
<p>“It takes time to foster the habit among people of going to the cinema,” he said. “This is still a market with potential for development.”</p>
<p>Beijing, with 22 million people, added more than 100 cinemas in 2016, up from about 70 in 2015.</p>
<p>The cinema in Zhuolu, an apple and grape-growing area 160 kilometers (100 miles) away, opened in 2014. It’s surrounded by shops, banks and restaurants operating underneath apartment blocks.</p>
<p>On a recent weekday afternoon, a couple bought two 35-yuan ($5) tickets to watch the Hollywood film “Hacksaw Ridge” and had the whole theater to themselves. That’s equivalent to about the cheapest cinema ticket for sale in Beijing.</p>
<p>Growth in China’s box office takings has begun to slow after years of record-breaking expansion, increasing by just 3.7 percent in 2016 compared with an annual jump of 48.7 percent in 2015. That has pushed back forecasts of when China’s box office sales will overtake North America’s to 2019, from as early as this year.</p>
<p>Limited purchasing power and competition from online viewing are taking a toll. So is the generally mediocre selection of films, like the widely panned 2016 staple “League of Gods,” a fantasy epic starring Jet Li and Fan Bingbing that is based on a 16th-century Chinese novel. Ticket prices have risen after several online ticket platforms stopped giving discounts.</p>
<p>For decades after the Communist Party took power in 1949, state-owned cinemas showed propaganda films starring peasants and soldiers. Even after economic reforms began in the 1980s-90s, cinemas charged as little as 2 mao (3 cents) for showings of both foreign and domestic films.</p>
<p>As China’s economy became more market-oriented, state-operated theaters in places like Zhuolu closed and people lost the cinema-going habit. Companies like real estate conglomerate Wanda Group, which owns the American AMC movie theater company, have led a private cinema chain revolution in large cities.</p>
<p>The new cinema in Zhuolu opened its doors two years ago, more than a decade after the old state-run one was torn down.</p>
<p>Once an avid movie-goer, 66-year-old farmer Zhao Youling has never visited the new cinema just 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) away from his village.</p>
<p>“It isn’t that the ticket is too expensive, it is that I am too poor,” Zhao said.</p>
<p>“I always stay at home and watch TV because it is free,” Zhao said. “I was a movie fan 30 years ago and as far as I can remember I could afford to watch a film almost every week and I loved to watch films featuring the lives of farmers or stories in the countryside.”</p>
<p>Scant as they are, the Zhuolu cinema’s audiences have been growing, says Wang, who contracts the space from the county government’s cultural bureau and keeps it open daily, from 8:30 to midnight.</p>
<p>“We have to offer screenings and be ready because we don’t know when there will be an audience,” he said. “We have to be open all day — we can’t let people see a locked door.”</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>AP researcher Yu Bing in Beijing contributed to this report.</p> | China overtakes US in screens but cinemas sit empty | false | https://abqjournal.com/927226/china-overtakes-us-in-screens-but-cinemas-sit-empty.html | 2017-01-13 | 2least
| China overtakes US in screens but cinemas sit empty
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>China has overtaken the U.S. in terms of the number of its cinema screens, becoming the world’s biggest movie market by that measure. But away from the bigger cities you wouldn’t know it.</p>
<p>In this theater in a county seat near Beijing, the ticket-seller sitting behind the counter with nothing to do and a ticket-collector lying down watching films on his phone are signs something’s amiss with China’s non-stop building of cinemas.</p>
<p>Industry analysts foresee only more and more screens. But Zhuolu’s residents are typical of Chinese who are not in the habit of movie-going, preferring to watch films online for free.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“We don’t have many customers — only a couple on weekdays and a few dozen during the weekends,” said Wang Xudong, the manager of Zhuolu County Digital Cinema, which has three screens and 400 seats for a county of 350,000 people.</p>
<p>“Sometimes we rent the halls out for meetings to earn some money and then we can only break even,” said Wang, who also provides drum kits for cinema hall lessons for amateur musicians. Companies sometimes rent the halls for promotions of products such as health supplements and water dispensers.</p>
<p>China had fewer than 20,000 cinema screens in 2013, but it has now surpassed the U.S., which had 40,759 indoor and drive-in screens as of July, according to the Washington, D.C.-based National Association of Theatre Owners. As of Dec. 20, China had 40,917 screens, according to the national film bureau.</p>
<p>As the most populous country, at 1.4 billion, China’s cinema market still has plenty of room to grow as theater chains expand into smaller cities and rural areas.</p>
<p>Box office takings are still much smaller in China, at more than $6.5 billion in 2015, compared to $11 billion in North America, including cinema advertising revenue.</p>
<p>There are just 23 screens per million Chinese, compared to 125 per million in the U.S., according to IHS Markit, a London-based market researcher.</p>
<p>Analyst David Hancock estimates China’s screen density ratio will grow to about 57 screens per million over the next five to 10 years.</p>
<p>“The country is still under-screened, and there seems to be little reason to stop building screens where there are none,” Hancock said.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>China’s countryside had around 3,000 cinemas in 2016, out of 7,000 in the whole country, said Fu Yalong, research director at leading entertainment consultancy EntGroup.</p>
<p>“It takes time to foster the habit among people of going to the cinema,” he said. “This is still a market with potential for development.”</p>
<p>Beijing, with 22 million people, added more than 100 cinemas in 2016, up from about 70 in 2015.</p>
<p>The cinema in Zhuolu, an apple and grape-growing area 160 kilometers (100 miles) away, opened in 2014. It’s surrounded by shops, banks and restaurants operating underneath apartment blocks.</p>
<p>On a recent weekday afternoon, a couple bought two 35-yuan ($5) tickets to watch the Hollywood film “Hacksaw Ridge” and had the whole theater to themselves. That’s equivalent to about the cheapest cinema ticket for sale in Beijing.</p>
<p>Growth in China’s box office takings has begun to slow after years of record-breaking expansion, increasing by just 3.7 percent in 2016 compared with an annual jump of 48.7 percent in 2015. That has pushed back forecasts of when China’s box office sales will overtake North America’s to 2019, from as early as this year.</p>
<p>Limited purchasing power and competition from online viewing are taking a toll. So is the generally mediocre selection of films, like the widely panned 2016 staple “League of Gods,” a fantasy epic starring Jet Li and Fan Bingbing that is based on a 16th-century Chinese novel. Ticket prices have risen after several online ticket platforms stopped giving discounts.</p>
<p>For decades after the Communist Party took power in 1949, state-owned cinemas showed propaganda films starring peasants and soldiers. Even after economic reforms began in the 1980s-90s, cinemas charged as little as 2 mao (3 cents) for showings of both foreign and domestic films.</p>
<p>As China’s economy became more market-oriented, state-operated theaters in places like Zhuolu closed and people lost the cinema-going habit. Companies like real estate conglomerate Wanda Group, which owns the American AMC movie theater company, have led a private cinema chain revolution in large cities.</p>
<p>The new cinema in Zhuolu opened its doors two years ago, more than a decade after the old state-run one was torn down.</p>
<p>Once an avid movie-goer, 66-year-old farmer Zhao Youling has never visited the new cinema just 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) away from his village.</p>
<p>“It isn’t that the ticket is too expensive, it is that I am too poor,” Zhao said.</p>
<p>“I always stay at home and watch TV because it is free,” Zhao said. “I was a movie fan 30 years ago and as far as I can remember I could afford to watch a film almost every week and I loved to watch films featuring the lives of farmers or stories in the countryside.”</p>
<p>Scant as they are, the Zhuolu cinema’s audiences have been growing, says Wang, who contracts the space from the county government’s cultural bureau and keeps it open daily, from 8:30 to midnight.</p>
<p>“We have to offer screenings and be ready because we don’t know when there will be an audience,” he said. “We have to be open all day — we can’t let people see a locked door.”</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>AP researcher Yu Bing in Beijing contributed to this report.</p> | 599,161 |
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>Moscow’s top diplomat is a Washington fixture with a sprawling network, and he has emerged as the central figure in the investigations into Trump advisers’ connections with Russia. In a matter of weeks, contact with Kislyak led to the firing of a top adviser to the president and, on Thursday, prompted calls for the Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign.</p>
<p>Separately, a White House official confirmed that Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and ousted national security adviser Michael Flynn met with Kislyak at Trump Tower in December for what the official called a brief courtesy meeting. Flynn was pushed out of the White House last month after officials said he misled Vice President Mike Pence about whether he and the ambassador had discussed U.S. sanctions against Russia in a phone call.</p>
<p>At issue Thursday were two meetings between Sessions and Kislyak — one in July and another in September, at the height of concern over Russia’s involvement in the hacking of Democratic officials’ emails accounts. Intelligence officials have since concluded that Moscow ordered the hacks to tilt the election toward Trump. During his confirmation hearing, the Alabama Republican denied having had contact with any Russian officials, neglecting to mention the meetings with Kislyak, which were first reported by The Washington Post.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>The Russian Embassy did not respond to a request for comment.</p>
<p>Although the White House dismissed the revelation as part of a political witch hunt, Sessions’ former colleagues took the omission seriously. At the urging of some in his own party, Sessions recused himself from the Department of Justice’s investigation. Still, Democrats called on him to step down.</p>
<p>Observers note Kislyak is a somewhat unlikely figure to cause controversy. Over the course of a long diplomatic career, he’s led the life of a fairly typical global envoy, making himself a reliable presence on the circuit of receptions, teas and forums that make up the calendar of any ambassador.</p>
<p>Kislyak, who was appointed to his post in 2008, is regularly spotted walking around town, heading to and from meetings. Early in his tenure, he often opened the doors of the Russian Embassy, hosting dinners for foreign policy professionals, Pentagon officials, journalists and Capitol Hill staffers.</p>
<p>Those who have attended the events describe him as a gracious and amiable diplomat, although perhaps not as polished — or as confrontational — as his more famous boss, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.</p>
<p>In 2015, when Kislyak invited a group of Washington-based journalists, including one from The Associated Press, to the Russian Embassy for tea, he used the meeting to push warmer relations between the two nations, despite the conflict over Russia’s seizure of Crimea and the crisis in Ukraine.</p>
<p>Kislyak framed U.S.-Russian relations as salvageable and said he hoped specifically to combat what he considered cartoonish, anti-Russian depictions of his government in the American news media.</p>
<p>Sessions, at a news conference where he recused himself from the investigation into the Trump campaign’s ties with Russia, said he discussed a number of things with Kislyak, including counterterrorism. He said the meeting became confrontational when the talk turned to Ukraine.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Kislyak, 66, has bounced between the United States and Russia for most of his long career.</p>
<p>His first foreign posting was to New York where he worked at the Soviet delegation at the United Nations in the early 1980s. He spent the following years as the first secretary and then councilor at the Soviet Embassy in Washington before returning to Moscow in 1989, where he took a succession of senior jobs at the Foreign Ministry.</p>
<p>He did a stint as Russian ambassador to Belgium and simultaneously served as Moscow’s envoy at NATO. He then returned to Moscow to serve as a deputy foreign minister, overseeing relations with the United States and arms control issues before being sent to Washington.</p>
<p>Kislyak’s contacts have sparked questions about his role or involvement in the hacking, questions that are difficult to answer.</p>
<p>The U.S. and Russia, along with many other countries, have made it a practice to separate their top diplomats from espionage activities, although it is not uncommon for an intelligence agent to operate under the cover of a senior-level diplomat job. Foreign diplomats to the United States likely expect that their activities will be monitored by U.S. authorities in the same manner that American diplomats are monitored in countries like Russia.</p>
<p>Russian ambassadors most likely are aware of the intelligence agents operating under diplomatic cover, but are not believed to part of the security services themselves.</p>
<p>Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Thursday ridiculed the claims of Kislyak’s involvement in espionage as “total disinformation” and part of efforts to sway public opinion.</p>
<p>“I’ll open a military secret for you: It’s the diplomats’ jobs to have contacts in the country they are posted to,” she said, sarcastically. “It’s their obligation to meet with officials and members of the political establishment.”</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>Isachenkov reported from Moscow. Associated Press writers Bradley Klapper and Matthew Lee in Washington contributed to this report.</p> | Russian ambassador in eye of storm over Trump campaign ties | false | https://abqjournal.com/961409/russian-ambassador-in-eye-of-storm-over-trump-campaign-ties.html | 2017-03-03 | 2least
| Russian ambassador in eye of storm over Trump campaign ties
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>Moscow’s top diplomat is a Washington fixture with a sprawling network, and he has emerged as the central figure in the investigations into Trump advisers’ connections with Russia. In a matter of weeks, contact with Kislyak led to the firing of a top adviser to the president and, on Thursday, prompted calls for the Attorney General Jeff Sessions to resign.</p>
<p>Separately, a White House official confirmed that Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner and ousted national security adviser Michael Flynn met with Kislyak at Trump Tower in December for what the official called a brief courtesy meeting. Flynn was pushed out of the White House last month after officials said he misled Vice President Mike Pence about whether he and the ambassador had discussed U.S. sanctions against Russia in a phone call.</p>
<p>At issue Thursday were two meetings between Sessions and Kislyak — one in July and another in September, at the height of concern over Russia’s involvement in the hacking of Democratic officials’ emails accounts. Intelligence officials have since concluded that Moscow ordered the hacks to tilt the election toward Trump. During his confirmation hearing, the Alabama Republican denied having had contact with any Russian officials, neglecting to mention the meetings with Kislyak, which were first reported by The Washington Post.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>The Russian Embassy did not respond to a request for comment.</p>
<p>Although the White House dismissed the revelation as part of a political witch hunt, Sessions’ former colleagues took the omission seriously. At the urging of some in his own party, Sessions recused himself from the Department of Justice’s investigation. Still, Democrats called on him to step down.</p>
<p>Observers note Kislyak is a somewhat unlikely figure to cause controversy. Over the course of a long diplomatic career, he’s led the life of a fairly typical global envoy, making himself a reliable presence on the circuit of receptions, teas and forums that make up the calendar of any ambassador.</p>
<p>Kislyak, who was appointed to his post in 2008, is regularly spotted walking around town, heading to and from meetings. Early in his tenure, he often opened the doors of the Russian Embassy, hosting dinners for foreign policy professionals, Pentagon officials, journalists and Capitol Hill staffers.</p>
<p>Those who have attended the events describe him as a gracious and amiable diplomat, although perhaps not as polished — or as confrontational — as his more famous boss, Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.</p>
<p>In 2015, when Kislyak invited a group of Washington-based journalists, including one from The Associated Press, to the Russian Embassy for tea, he used the meeting to push warmer relations between the two nations, despite the conflict over Russia’s seizure of Crimea and the crisis in Ukraine.</p>
<p>Kislyak framed U.S.-Russian relations as salvageable and said he hoped specifically to combat what he considered cartoonish, anti-Russian depictions of his government in the American news media.</p>
<p>Sessions, at a news conference where he recused himself from the investigation into the Trump campaign’s ties with Russia, said he discussed a number of things with Kislyak, including counterterrorism. He said the meeting became confrontational when the talk turned to Ukraine.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Kislyak, 66, has bounced between the United States and Russia for most of his long career.</p>
<p>His first foreign posting was to New York where he worked at the Soviet delegation at the United Nations in the early 1980s. He spent the following years as the first secretary and then councilor at the Soviet Embassy in Washington before returning to Moscow in 1989, where he took a succession of senior jobs at the Foreign Ministry.</p>
<p>He did a stint as Russian ambassador to Belgium and simultaneously served as Moscow’s envoy at NATO. He then returned to Moscow to serve as a deputy foreign minister, overseeing relations with the United States and arms control issues before being sent to Washington.</p>
<p>Kislyak’s contacts have sparked questions about his role or involvement in the hacking, questions that are difficult to answer.</p>
<p>The U.S. and Russia, along with many other countries, have made it a practice to separate their top diplomats from espionage activities, although it is not uncommon for an intelligence agent to operate under the cover of a senior-level diplomat job. Foreign diplomats to the United States likely expect that their activities will be monitored by U.S. authorities in the same manner that American diplomats are monitored in countries like Russia.</p>
<p>Russian ambassadors most likely are aware of the intelligence agents operating under diplomatic cover, but are not believed to part of the security services themselves.</p>
<p>Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova on Thursday ridiculed the claims of Kislyak’s involvement in espionage as “total disinformation” and part of efforts to sway public opinion.</p>
<p>“I’ll open a military secret for you: It’s the diplomats’ jobs to have contacts in the country they are posted to,” she said, sarcastically. “It’s their obligation to meet with officials and members of the political establishment.”</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>Isachenkov reported from Moscow. Associated Press writers Bradley Klapper and Matthew Lee in Washington contributed to this report.</p> | 599,162 |
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>After Donald Trump’s inaugural committee announced its chosen clergy on Wednesday, the dissent was quieter – and it was not about political issues, but theological ones.</p>
<p>What little criticism emerged on Wednesday mostly focused on one of the six clergy members who will pray at Trump’s inauguration: Paula White, a Florida-based televangelist who has long been close to Trump.</p>
<p>White is known for embracing the prosperity gospel – the theology that God will bless true believers not just with eternal salvation but with material wealth here on Earth. To many believers, the prosperity gospel offers hope and promise. But to other Christians, it’s heretical; and to some, prosperity gospel preachers’ motives are suspect, especially when they seem to be enriching themselves by asking for money from their followers.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Sen. Charles E. Grassley, R-Iowa, launched an investigation in 2007 into spending by White and several other televangelists, but ended it three years later without reaching any conclusions.</p>
<p>When White’s role in the swearing-in ceremony was reported Wednesday, the Daily Beast said in a headline, “Shady Pastor to Pray With Trump at Inauguration.” Erick Erickson, an influential Christian writer who strongly opposed Trump during his campaign, fumed on his website: “An Actual Trinity-Denying Heretic Will Pray at Trump’s Inauguration.”</p>
<p>To explain the theology that he took issue with, Erickson posted a video of a televised conversation in which White listened to a man say, “Jesus is not the only begotten son of God. He is not. I’m a son of God.” White agreed: “He’s the first fruit.”</p>
<p>Erickson wrote on Wednesday: “The President of the United States putting a heretic on stage who claims to believe in Jesus, but does not really believe in Jesus, risks leading others astray. . .. I’d rather a Hindu pray on Inauguration Day and not risk the souls of men, than one whose heresy lures in souls with promises of comfort only to damn them in eternity. At least no one would mistake a Hindu, a Buddhist, or an atheist with being a representative of Christ’s kingdom.”</p>
<p>Trump picked a more diverse set of clergy to deliver biblical readings and prayers than most recent presidents, who have picked just one or two people to pray at their inaugurations. He will have six clergy members on stage, including a rabbi, a Catholic cardinal and black and Hispanic Protestant leaders.</p>
<p>White is the second woman ever chosen to pray at an inauguration, and the first female clergy member to participate: Obama tapped the first female prayer leader in 2013 when he asked Myrlie Evers-Williams, a lay person and the widow of civil rights leader Medgar Evers, to pray at his second swearing-in.</p>
<p>White has long been close to Trump. She helped orchestrate his meeting with hundreds of evangelical leaders in June and is now chair of his evangelical advisory board. In a statement on Wednesday, she said she will ask God to “richly bless our extraordinary home, the United States of America” when she prays at the inauguration.</p>
<p>And Trump’s association with the prosperity gospel dates back far longer than his friendship with White. His parents joined Marble Collegiate Church in New York, where Trump was strongly impressed by Norman Vincent Peale, one of America’s earliest and most prominent prosperity gospel thinkers. Peale officiated at Trump’s first wedding, and Trump co-hosted a 90th birthday party for Peale, who died in 1993.</p>
<p>The Associated Press said that Trump’s inauguration will be the first time a prosperity gospel preacher takes the national stage at an inauguration.</p>
<p>“You’ve got millions of people who will see them perform,” Rice University religion professor Anthony Pinn said to the AP. “There’s a tremendous amount of benefit that goes along with that.”</p> | Paula White, prosperity preacher once investigated by Senate, is a controversial pick for inauguration | false | https://abqjournal.com/917759/paula-white-prosperity-preacher-once-investigated-by-senate-is-a-controversial-pick-for-inauguration.html | 2least
| Paula White, prosperity preacher once investigated by Senate, is a controversial pick for inauguration
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>After Donald Trump’s inaugural committee announced its chosen clergy on Wednesday, the dissent was quieter – and it was not about political issues, but theological ones.</p>
<p>What little criticism emerged on Wednesday mostly focused on one of the six clergy members who will pray at Trump’s inauguration: Paula White, a Florida-based televangelist who has long been close to Trump.</p>
<p>White is known for embracing the prosperity gospel – the theology that God will bless true believers not just with eternal salvation but with material wealth here on Earth. To many believers, the prosperity gospel offers hope and promise. But to other Christians, it’s heretical; and to some, prosperity gospel preachers’ motives are suspect, especially when they seem to be enriching themselves by asking for money from their followers.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Sen. Charles E. Grassley, R-Iowa, launched an investigation in 2007 into spending by White and several other televangelists, but ended it three years later without reaching any conclusions.</p>
<p>When White’s role in the swearing-in ceremony was reported Wednesday, the Daily Beast said in a headline, “Shady Pastor to Pray With Trump at Inauguration.” Erick Erickson, an influential Christian writer who strongly opposed Trump during his campaign, fumed on his website: “An Actual Trinity-Denying Heretic Will Pray at Trump’s Inauguration.”</p>
<p>To explain the theology that he took issue with, Erickson posted a video of a televised conversation in which White listened to a man say, “Jesus is not the only begotten son of God. He is not. I’m a son of God.” White agreed: “He’s the first fruit.”</p>
<p>Erickson wrote on Wednesday: “The President of the United States putting a heretic on stage who claims to believe in Jesus, but does not really believe in Jesus, risks leading others astray. . .. I’d rather a Hindu pray on Inauguration Day and not risk the souls of men, than one whose heresy lures in souls with promises of comfort only to damn them in eternity. At least no one would mistake a Hindu, a Buddhist, or an atheist with being a representative of Christ’s kingdom.”</p>
<p>Trump picked a more diverse set of clergy to deliver biblical readings and prayers than most recent presidents, who have picked just one or two people to pray at their inaugurations. He will have six clergy members on stage, including a rabbi, a Catholic cardinal and black and Hispanic Protestant leaders.</p>
<p>White is the second woman ever chosen to pray at an inauguration, and the first female clergy member to participate: Obama tapped the first female prayer leader in 2013 when he asked Myrlie Evers-Williams, a lay person and the widow of civil rights leader Medgar Evers, to pray at his second swearing-in.</p>
<p>White has long been close to Trump. She helped orchestrate his meeting with hundreds of evangelical leaders in June and is now chair of his evangelical advisory board. In a statement on Wednesday, she said she will ask God to “richly bless our extraordinary home, the United States of America” when she prays at the inauguration.</p>
<p>And Trump’s association with the prosperity gospel dates back far longer than his friendship with White. His parents joined Marble Collegiate Church in New York, where Trump was strongly impressed by Norman Vincent Peale, one of America’s earliest and most prominent prosperity gospel thinkers. Peale officiated at Trump’s first wedding, and Trump co-hosted a 90th birthday party for Peale, who died in 1993.</p>
<p>The Associated Press said that Trump’s inauguration will be the first time a prosperity gospel preacher takes the national stage at an inauguration.</p>
<p>“You’ve got millions of people who will see them perform,” Rice University religion professor Anthony Pinn said to the AP. “There’s a tremendous amount of benefit that goes along with that.”</p> | 599,163 |
|
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p>CHANDLER, Ariz. — Authorities have identified a woman who reportedly drove an SUV the wrong way on the State Route 202 freeway in Chandler and caused two collisions.</p>
<p>Arizona Department of Public Safety officials say 51-year-old Theresa Jordan of Phoenix remains hospitalized with a fractured sternum after Monday night’s crash.</p>
<p>DPS troopers have determined that impairment wasn’t a factor and it appears Jordan was confused and without her glasses.</p>
<p>Her SUV collided with a pickup truck and then with another vehicle when Jordan tried to turn around after entering the freeway and going eastbound in westbound lanes.</p>
<p>The DPS says the first collision caused the pickup to roll over and the SUV struck the other vehicle.</p>
<p>Authorities say the driver of the pickup is hospitalized for multiple broken bones from the waist down.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p> | Woman reportedly driving wrong way on freeway hurt in wrecks | false | https://abqjournal.com/968693/woman-reportedly-driving-wrong-way-on-freeway-hurt-in-wrecks.html | 2017-03-14 | 2least
| Woman reportedly driving wrong way on freeway hurt in wrecks
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p>CHANDLER, Ariz. — Authorities have identified a woman who reportedly drove an SUV the wrong way on the State Route 202 freeway in Chandler and caused two collisions.</p>
<p>Arizona Department of Public Safety officials say 51-year-old Theresa Jordan of Phoenix remains hospitalized with a fractured sternum after Monday night’s crash.</p>
<p>DPS troopers have determined that impairment wasn’t a factor and it appears Jordan was confused and without her glasses.</p>
<p>Her SUV collided with a pickup truck and then with another vehicle when Jordan tried to turn around after entering the freeway and going eastbound in westbound lanes.</p>
<p>The DPS says the first collision caused the pickup to roll over and the SUV struck the other vehicle.</p>
<p>Authorities say the driver of the pickup is hospitalized for multiple broken bones from the waist down.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p> | 599,164 |
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p><a href="" type="internal" />NEW YORK — Apple says people spent more than $10 billion in its app store last year, on apps such as “Minecraft,” “Angry Birds Star Wars” and “Sleep Cycle” alarm clock.</p>
<p>December was the most successful month in the store’s history, as customers spent $1 billion that month. Apple says the year’s total was also a record.</p>
<p>There are more than a million apps available in the app store for the iPhone, the iPad and the iPod Touch. Besides games, there are newspapers, magazines, travel, business and health and fitness apps, among others.</p>
<p>Apple launched the app store in 2008, a year after the iPhone with 500 apps.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p> | Apple: People spent $10B in its app store in 2013 | false | https://abqjournal.com/332375/apple-people-spent-10b-in-its-app-store-in-2013.html | 2least
| Apple: People spent $10B in its app store in 2013
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p><a href="" type="internal" />NEW YORK — Apple says people spent more than $10 billion in its app store last year, on apps such as “Minecraft,” “Angry Birds Star Wars” and “Sleep Cycle” alarm clock.</p>
<p>December was the most successful month in the store’s history, as customers spent $1 billion that month. Apple says the year’s total was also a record.</p>
<p>There are more than a million apps available in the app store for the iPhone, the iPad and the iPod Touch. Besides games, there are newspapers, magazines, travel, business and health and fitness apps, among others.</p>
<p>Apple launched the app store in 2008, a year after the iPhone with 500 apps.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p> | 599,165 |
|
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>When students take New Mexico’s new statewide test on computers next spring they will be asked to do more than just fill in a bubble or write down their answer.</p>
<p>On the new test – the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers exam – students will be asked to type essays, drag and drop text, toggle between reading passages and answer questions based on videos embedded within the exam.</p>
<p>This has some teachers fearful students will be befuddled by PARCC’s format.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“How they interface with the test could interfere with their test taking,” said Susan Schripsema, an English teacher at La Cueva High School.</p>
<p>Like other teachers interviewed for this story, Schripsema is familiar with the layout because sample versions of the test are available online.</p>
<p>Public school students in grades 3-11 will take PARCC this school year. It is replacing the Standards Based Assessment. The test will be given online and measures students’ knowledge in math and language arts – reading and writing.</p>
<p>Schripsema said there are things to like about the new test. The language arts portion, for example, asks students to answer questions based on their reading of texts that come from the real world – a Supreme Court decision or a Greek myth for high school versions of the test – not passages written specially for the test. These texts “more closely mirror” what people actually read and deal with in the workplace, Schripsema said. She added she is confident her students will be prepared for the content on the test.</p>
<p>“As far as the skills go, the students will feel prepared,” Schripsema said.</p>
<p>But teachers interviewed for this story had varying levels of confidence regarding whether students would be prepared for the content on the test. Some teachers said they thought the content was too difficult for their students’ grade level.</p>
<p>Still, Schripsema said she has serious concerns about the instructions and computer skills the test requires. Having students toggle between different text boxes, drag and drop texts; watch embedded videos; and on some questions, find helpful charts that open up only after clicking on an icon, will confuse students and slow them down, she said. It is a timed test.</p>
<p>Last month, PARCC – the consortium – released results from a survey given to teachers and students who took PARCC field tests last spring that showed about 90 percent of students said that they understood the instructions on the English-language arts and math versions of the test.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>More than 1 million students in 14 states, including New Mexico, took the field test. Forty-one APS schools participated.</p>
<p>According to PARCC’s survey results, “Evidence gathered during the field test and from survey responses indicated that the test content hit the mark. Most students were able to follow instructions, use the keyboard and various test features (such as the online calculator), and complete the tests in less than the time allotted,” the report said.</p>
<p>Yet many teachers remain concerned about that aspect.</p>
<p>Scot Key, an instructional coach at Jefferson Middle School, said just because many students seemed to be in constant touch with technology, whether it’s their phone or computer device, doesn’t mean they will have seen something like the PARCC before taking the exam.</p>
<p>“There are pretty sophisticated text boxes that they don’t see outside of the test,” Key said.</p>
<p>A Montessori of the Rio Grande Charter School parent double checks his answers after taking the PARCC Challenge.</p>
<p>Teachers also noted students will be asked to type some of their answers, including some essays, while most have not yet taken a keyboarding class.</p>
<p>Several teachers interviewed for this story said their schools are preparing students for the format of the test by having them take the sample versions.</p>
<p>Students at Jefferson Middle School are taking class time in both English and math to take portions of the sample PARCC tests, Key said.</p>
<p>“It’s pretty much going to be a day a week on both sides,” Key said, noting that takes classroom time away from teachers.</p>
<p>Tayna Kuhnee, an English teacher at West Mesa, said teachers at her school have taken a similar tack. They are having their students practice for PARCC by taking the elementary versions of the sample test so they can get used to the format without having to worry about content. Kuhnee said teachers at her school have concerns about both PARCC’s content and its format.</p>
<p>The state is sending districts a monthly “Countdown to PARCC” update to support their preparation for the test, said Leighann Lenti, director of policy for the Public Education Department.</p>
<p>Lenti said PED officials expect kids will like the test.</p>
<p>Compared to a paper and pencil test, PARCC has features, like embedded videos, that kids will find cool and fun, she said.</p>
<p>“We anticipate there will be better engagement by students,” said Lenti. “Think about what it was like to take a test when we were kids. This is way cooler.”</p>
<p>Some teachers think the test will have the opposite effect and discourage students. They fear students will become fatigued with the test instructions and that some might even give up.</p>
<p>“My prediction is that most students will just start clicking answers” because PARCC can be cumbersome at times with students having to flip back and forth between different screens, said Rio Rancho history teacher Tracy Billingsley.</p>
<p>New Mexico and many other states are moving to computer tests because most students will work on computers, not paper and pencil, when they go to college or enter the workplace, Lenti said.</p>
<p>Rio Rancho government and economics teacher Justin Daniels said he wishes they would slow down the implementation of the new test so teachers have more time to prepare students.</p>
<p>“We are all for them learning basic computer skills,” Daniels said. “But they can learn that in some way other than through a high-stakes exam.”</p>
<p>For parents who want to help their students prepare for the PARCC tests, go to <a href="http://parcc.pearson.com" type="external">parcc.pearson.com</a> for practice tests and more information.</p>
<p />
<p /> | Teachers gearing up for new PARCC tests | false | https://abqjournal.com/507195/teachers-gearing-up-for-new-parcc-tests.html | 2least
| Teachers gearing up for new PARCC tests
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>When students take New Mexico’s new statewide test on computers next spring they will be asked to do more than just fill in a bubble or write down their answer.</p>
<p>On the new test – the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers exam – students will be asked to type essays, drag and drop text, toggle between reading passages and answer questions based on videos embedded within the exam.</p>
<p>This has some teachers fearful students will be befuddled by PARCC’s format.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“How they interface with the test could interfere with their test taking,” said Susan Schripsema, an English teacher at La Cueva High School.</p>
<p>Like other teachers interviewed for this story, Schripsema is familiar with the layout because sample versions of the test are available online.</p>
<p>Public school students in grades 3-11 will take PARCC this school year. It is replacing the Standards Based Assessment. The test will be given online and measures students’ knowledge in math and language arts – reading and writing.</p>
<p>Schripsema said there are things to like about the new test. The language arts portion, for example, asks students to answer questions based on their reading of texts that come from the real world – a Supreme Court decision or a Greek myth for high school versions of the test – not passages written specially for the test. These texts “more closely mirror” what people actually read and deal with in the workplace, Schripsema said. She added she is confident her students will be prepared for the content on the test.</p>
<p>“As far as the skills go, the students will feel prepared,” Schripsema said.</p>
<p>But teachers interviewed for this story had varying levels of confidence regarding whether students would be prepared for the content on the test. Some teachers said they thought the content was too difficult for their students’ grade level.</p>
<p>Still, Schripsema said she has serious concerns about the instructions and computer skills the test requires. Having students toggle between different text boxes, drag and drop texts; watch embedded videos; and on some questions, find helpful charts that open up only after clicking on an icon, will confuse students and slow them down, she said. It is a timed test.</p>
<p>Last month, PARCC – the consortium – released results from a survey given to teachers and students who took PARCC field tests last spring that showed about 90 percent of students said that they understood the instructions on the English-language arts and math versions of the test.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>More than 1 million students in 14 states, including New Mexico, took the field test. Forty-one APS schools participated.</p>
<p>According to PARCC’s survey results, “Evidence gathered during the field test and from survey responses indicated that the test content hit the mark. Most students were able to follow instructions, use the keyboard and various test features (such as the online calculator), and complete the tests in less than the time allotted,” the report said.</p>
<p>Yet many teachers remain concerned about that aspect.</p>
<p>Scot Key, an instructional coach at Jefferson Middle School, said just because many students seemed to be in constant touch with technology, whether it’s their phone or computer device, doesn’t mean they will have seen something like the PARCC before taking the exam.</p>
<p>“There are pretty sophisticated text boxes that they don’t see outside of the test,” Key said.</p>
<p>A Montessori of the Rio Grande Charter School parent double checks his answers after taking the PARCC Challenge.</p>
<p>Teachers also noted students will be asked to type some of their answers, including some essays, while most have not yet taken a keyboarding class.</p>
<p>Several teachers interviewed for this story said their schools are preparing students for the format of the test by having them take the sample versions.</p>
<p>Students at Jefferson Middle School are taking class time in both English and math to take portions of the sample PARCC tests, Key said.</p>
<p>“It’s pretty much going to be a day a week on both sides,” Key said, noting that takes classroom time away from teachers.</p>
<p>Tayna Kuhnee, an English teacher at West Mesa, said teachers at her school have taken a similar tack. They are having their students practice for PARCC by taking the elementary versions of the sample test so they can get used to the format without having to worry about content. Kuhnee said teachers at her school have concerns about both PARCC’s content and its format.</p>
<p>The state is sending districts a monthly “Countdown to PARCC” update to support their preparation for the test, said Leighann Lenti, director of policy for the Public Education Department.</p>
<p>Lenti said PED officials expect kids will like the test.</p>
<p>Compared to a paper and pencil test, PARCC has features, like embedded videos, that kids will find cool and fun, she said.</p>
<p>“We anticipate there will be better engagement by students,” said Lenti. “Think about what it was like to take a test when we were kids. This is way cooler.”</p>
<p>Some teachers think the test will have the opposite effect and discourage students. They fear students will become fatigued with the test instructions and that some might even give up.</p>
<p>“My prediction is that most students will just start clicking answers” because PARCC can be cumbersome at times with students having to flip back and forth between different screens, said Rio Rancho history teacher Tracy Billingsley.</p>
<p>New Mexico and many other states are moving to computer tests because most students will work on computers, not paper and pencil, when they go to college or enter the workplace, Lenti said.</p>
<p>Rio Rancho government and economics teacher Justin Daniels said he wishes they would slow down the implementation of the new test so teachers have more time to prepare students.</p>
<p>“We are all for them learning basic computer skills,” Daniels said. “But they can learn that in some way other than through a high-stakes exam.”</p>
<p>For parents who want to help their students prepare for the PARCC tests, go to <a href="http://parcc.pearson.com" type="external">parcc.pearson.com</a> for practice tests and more information.</p>
<p />
<p /> | 599,166 |
|
<p>A British juror who contacted a defendant via <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13792080" type="external">Facebook</a>, causing a multimillion-dollar drug trial to collapse, has been sentenced to jail for eight months for contempt of court, according to BBC News. Joanne Fraill, 40 years old, admitted to London's high court that she used Facebook to exchange messages with a defendant, who had been cleared in the case in Manchester last year.</p>
<p>Fraill, 40, revealed <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2003448/Joanne-Fraill-faces-jail-contempt-court-Facebook-chat-Jamie-Sewart.html?ito=feeds-newsxml" type="external">highly sensitive</a> details about jury room discussions in her online communications with Jamie Sewart, 34, the Daily Mail reported. Because other defendants were still on trial at the time of the contact between Fraill and Sewart, the judge discharged the jury and the drug case in Manchester collapsed.</p>
<p>Fraill, a mother of three, was the first person in Britain to be convicted of <a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/06/16/us-britain-juror-idUSTRE75F22X20110616" type="external">contempt of court</a> involving the Internet, according to Reuters. She said she had contacted Sewart because she empathized with her. When the eight-year jail sentence was announced, she put her head on the table and sobbed uncontrollably.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/worldview/101126/opinion-defense-cuts-forces-britain-punch-its-weight" type="external">(From GlobalPost in Britain:&#160;Opinion: Defense cuts force Britain to punch at a lower weight)</a></p>
<p>BBC News said that Fraill would probably spend four months in jail, at which point she would be eligible for early release.</p>
<p>"I hope it will act as a deterrent," said Edward Garnier, the Solicitor General, adding that it had been in the public interest to prosecute to protect jury integrity.</p>
<p>According to the Guardian:</p>
<p>Sentencing Fraill, the judge said in a <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2011/jun/16/facebook-juror-jailed-for-eight-months" type="external">written ruling</a>: "Her conduct in visiting the internet repeatedly was directly contrary to her oath as a juror, and her contact with the acquitted defendant, as well as her repeated searches on the internet, constituted flagrant breaches of the orders made by the judge for the proper conduct of the trial."</p>
<p>The court heard that Fraill, of Blackley, Manchester, found Sewart on Facebook the day after Sewart had been cleared of conspiracy to supply heroin and amphetamines, according to the Daily Mail.</p>
<p>Fraill sent her message under a pseudonym, and the two women went on to exchange 50 messages in a 36-minute chat about the trial, the co-defendants and the latest position of the jury. Though Sewart told Fraill on Facebook that she would keep quiet about the chat, the next day she confessed to her lawyer and the trial was stopped.</p>
<p>Sewart was also found guilty of contempt and was given a two-month sentence suspended for two years, according to the Guardian.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p />
<p /> | British juror who contacted defendant via Facebook is jailed for contempt of court (VIDEO) | false | https://pri.org/stories/2011-06-17/british-juror-who-contacted-defendant-facebook-jailed-contempt-court-video | 2011-06-17 | 3left-center
| British juror who contacted defendant via Facebook is jailed for contempt of court (VIDEO)
<p>A British juror who contacted a defendant via <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13792080" type="external">Facebook</a>, causing a multimillion-dollar drug trial to collapse, has been sentenced to jail for eight months for contempt of court, according to BBC News. Joanne Fraill, 40 years old, admitted to London's high court that she used Facebook to exchange messages with a defendant, who had been cleared in the case in Manchester last year.</p>
<p>Fraill, 40, revealed <a href="http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2003448/Joanne-Fraill-faces-jail-contempt-court-Facebook-chat-Jamie-Sewart.html?ito=feeds-newsxml" type="external">highly sensitive</a> details about jury room discussions in her online communications with Jamie Sewart, 34, the Daily Mail reported. Because other defendants were still on trial at the time of the contact between Fraill and Sewart, the judge discharged the jury and the drug case in Manchester collapsed.</p>
<p>Fraill, a mother of three, was the first person in Britain to be convicted of <a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/06/16/us-britain-juror-idUSTRE75F22X20110616" type="external">contempt of court</a> involving the Internet, according to Reuters. She said she had contacted Sewart because she empathized with her. When the eight-year jail sentence was announced, she put her head on the table and sobbed uncontrollably.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/worldview/101126/opinion-defense-cuts-forces-britain-punch-its-weight" type="external">(From GlobalPost in Britain:&#160;Opinion: Defense cuts force Britain to punch at a lower weight)</a></p>
<p>BBC News said that Fraill would probably spend four months in jail, at which point she would be eligible for early release.</p>
<p>"I hope it will act as a deterrent," said Edward Garnier, the Solicitor General, adding that it had been in the public interest to prosecute to protect jury integrity.</p>
<p>According to the Guardian:</p>
<p>Sentencing Fraill, the judge said in a <a href="http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2011/jun/16/facebook-juror-jailed-for-eight-months" type="external">written ruling</a>: "Her conduct in visiting the internet repeatedly was directly contrary to her oath as a juror, and her contact with the acquitted defendant, as well as her repeated searches on the internet, constituted flagrant breaches of the orders made by the judge for the proper conduct of the trial."</p>
<p>The court heard that Fraill, of Blackley, Manchester, found Sewart on Facebook the day after Sewart had been cleared of conspiracy to supply heroin and amphetamines, according to the Daily Mail.</p>
<p>Fraill sent her message under a pseudonym, and the two women went on to exchange 50 messages in a 36-minute chat about the trial, the co-defendants and the latest position of the jury. Though Sewart told Fraill on Facebook that she would keep quiet about the chat, the next day she confessed to her lawyer and the trial was stopped.</p>
<p>Sewart was also found guilty of contempt and was given a two-month sentence suspended for two years, according to the Guardian.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p />
<p /> | 599,167 |
<p />
<p>We hear a lot about how healthcare is a <a href="http://www.fool.com/retirement/2016/07/03/warning-healthcare-costs-in-retirement-may-be-high.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">major burden Opens a New Window.</a> for retirees. In fact, the average healthy 65-year-old couple that retired last year will spend an estimated $377,000 on healthcare costs throughout retirement. But while that number paints a pretty scary picture on its own, here's something even more frightening to chew on: It doesn't even account for long-term care expenses like assisted living facilities or nursing homes.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>IMAGE SOURCE: GETTY IMAGES.</p>
<p>A good 70% of people who reach age 65 can expect to need some type of long-term care at some point in time. And that care doesn't come cheap. According to Genworth Financial's 2016 Cost of Care Survey, the average assisted living facility in the country costs $3,628 per month, or $43,539 per year. Meanwhile, the average nursing home costs $225 per day, or $82,125 per year, and that's for a semi-private room. A private room will set you back $253 per day, or $92,345 per year.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, many seniors are left to absorb the majority of these costs on their own. While Medicare offers some coverage, it typically only pays for skilled nursing or rehabilitation services for a limited period of time. In fact, the average Medicare-covered stay in a nursing home is just 22 days. Furthermore, Medicare won't pay for non-skilled assistance with daily living activities, which constitutes the majority of long-term care services seniors need.</p>
<p>Private or employer-sponsored health insurance companies aren't much better, as their coverage typically mimics that of Medicare. And given the fact that seniors typically require long-term care for extended periods of time, many are left to foot those hefty bills on their own. It's estimated that 69% of people requiring long-term care need it for three years, while 20% of today's 65-year-olds will need long-term care for five years or more. And the sooner you start preparing and saving for the possibility of this common expense, the better.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>The downside of long-term care insurance is that it tends to be expensive. A 60-year-old couple, for example, pays an average of about $3,400 per year. The upside, however, is that the right insurance policy could pick up a large chunk of the bill if you wind up needing long-term care like so many older Americans do. And the sooner you sign up for a plan, the less costly it's likely to be.</p>
<p>According to the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance, over 50% of long-term care insurance applicants aged 50 to 59 qualify for health-based long-term discounts. That figure drops to 42%, however, among 60- to 69-year-olds, and it plummets down to 24% for 70- to 79-year-olds. If you're going to get long-term care insurance, don't wait too long to apply. Otherwise, you might face higher premiums for life, and you can't rule out the possibility of your application getting denied altogether.</p>
<p>While long-term care insurance can help absorb the cost of a nursing home, assisted living facility, or any other associated service you might need, you shouldn't expect it to cover your expenses entirely. That's why it's so important to set aside money for retirement during your working years. It's not just those theater tickets and luxury cruises you're saving for; it's the more pressing items, like your health, that can end up eating a large chunk of your retirement income.</p>
<p>The good news is that if you save consistently and invest wisely, you can amass a nest egg large enough to make those costs seem less insurmountable. And thanks to the power of <a href="http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2016/05/28/66-of-americans-dont-understand-this-crucial-finan.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">compounding Opens a New Window.</a>, the sooner you begin saving, the more wealth you stand to accumulate.</p>
<p>The following table shows how much money you could wind up with if you start saving $500 a month for retirement at various ages:</p>
<p>TABLE AND CALCULATIONS BY AUTHOR.</p>
<p>As you can see, if you begin saving early on in your career, you stand a good chance at accumulating well over $1 million in time for retirement, which can go a long way toward covering your health-related expenses. Also keep in mind that these calculations assume an average yearly 8% return, and while you won't get that with safer investments, it's a reasonable goal for a stock-focused portfolio -- which is a solid strategy for anyone who's a decade or more away from retirement.</p>
<p>The next time you sit down to create or update your retirement plan, make sure to take long-term care expenses into account. Though the costs of long-term care are indeed sobering, a little up-front planning, and a lot of up-front saving, can make them all the more bearable when you're older.</p>
<p>The $15,834 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook If you're like most Americans, you're a few years (or more) behind on your retirement savings. But a handful of little-known "Social Security secrets" could help ensure a boost in your retirement income. For example: one easy trick could pay you as much as $15,834 more... each year! Once you learn how to maximize your Social Security benefits, we think you could retire confidently with the peace of mind we're all after. <a href="http://www.fool.com/mms/mark/ecap-foolcom-social-security?aid=8727&amp;source=irreditxt0000002&amp;ftm_cam=ryr-ss-intro-report&amp;ftm_pit=3186&amp;ftm_veh=article_pitch&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Simply click here to discover how to learn more about these strategies Opens a New Window.</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://my.fool.com/profile/TMFBookNerd/info.aspx" type="external">Maurie Backman Opens a New Window.</a> has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/Legal/fool-disclosure-policy.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p> | 70% of Older Americans Could Face This Colossal Expense | true | http://foxbusiness.com/markets/2017/02/06/70-older-americans-could-face-this-colossal-expense.html | 2017-02-06 | 0right
| 70% of Older Americans Could Face This Colossal Expense
<p />
<p>We hear a lot about how healthcare is a <a href="http://www.fool.com/retirement/2016/07/03/warning-healthcare-costs-in-retirement-may-be-high.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">major burden Opens a New Window.</a> for retirees. In fact, the average healthy 65-year-old couple that retired last year will spend an estimated $377,000 on healthcare costs throughout retirement. But while that number paints a pretty scary picture on its own, here's something even more frightening to chew on: It doesn't even account for long-term care expenses like assisted living facilities or nursing homes.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>IMAGE SOURCE: GETTY IMAGES.</p>
<p>A good 70% of people who reach age 65 can expect to need some type of long-term care at some point in time. And that care doesn't come cheap. According to Genworth Financial's 2016 Cost of Care Survey, the average assisted living facility in the country costs $3,628 per month, or $43,539 per year. Meanwhile, the average nursing home costs $225 per day, or $82,125 per year, and that's for a semi-private room. A private room will set you back $253 per day, or $92,345 per year.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, many seniors are left to absorb the majority of these costs on their own. While Medicare offers some coverage, it typically only pays for skilled nursing or rehabilitation services for a limited period of time. In fact, the average Medicare-covered stay in a nursing home is just 22 days. Furthermore, Medicare won't pay for non-skilled assistance with daily living activities, which constitutes the majority of long-term care services seniors need.</p>
<p>Private or employer-sponsored health insurance companies aren't much better, as their coverage typically mimics that of Medicare. And given the fact that seniors typically require long-term care for extended periods of time, many are left to foot those hefty bills on their own. It's estimated that 69% of people requiring long-term care need it for three years, while 20% of today's 65-year-olds will need long-term care for five years or more. And the sooner you start preparing and saving for the possibility of this common expense, the better.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>The downside of long-term care insurance is that it tends to be expensive. A 60-year-old couple, for example, pays an average of about $3,400 per year. The upside, however, is that the right insurance policy could pick up a large chunk of the bill if you wind up needing long-term care like so many older Americans do. And the sooner you sign up for a plan, the less costly it's likely to be.</p>
<p>According to the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance, over 50% of long-term care insurance applicants aged 50 to 59 qualify for health-based long-term discounts. That figure drops to 42%, however, among 60- to 69-year-olds, and it plummets down to 24% for 70- to 79-year-olds. If you're going to get long-term care insurance, don't wait too long to apply. Otherwise, you might face higher premiums for life, and you can't rule out the possibility of your application getting denied altogether.</p>
<p>While long-term care insurance can help absorb the cost of a nursing home, assisted living facility, or any other associated service you might need, you shouldn't expect it to cover your expenses entirely. That's why it's so important to set aside money for retirement during your working years. It's not just those theater tickets and luxury cruises you're saving for; it's the more pressing items, like your health, that can end up eating a large chunk of your retirement income.</p>
<p>The good news is that if you save consistently and invest wisely, you can amass a nest egg large enough to make those costs seem less insurmountable. And thanks to the power of <a href="http://www.fool.com/investing/general/2016/05/28/66-of-americans-dont-understand-this-crucial-finan.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">compounding Opens a New Window.</a>, the sooner you begin saving, the more wealth you stand to accumulate.</p>
<p>The following table shows how much money you could wind up with if you start saving $500 a month for retirement at various ages:</p>
<p>TABLE AND CALCULATIONS BY AUTHOR.</p>
<p>As you can see, if you begin saving early on in your career, you stand a good chance at accumulating well over $1 million in time for retirement, which can go a long way toward covering your health-related expenses. Also keep in mind that these calculations assume an average yearly 8% return, and while you won't get that with safer investments, it's a reasonable goal for a stock-focused portfolio -- which is a solid strategy for anyone who's a decade or more away from retirement.</p>
<p>The next time you sit down to create or update your retirement plan, make sure to take long-term care expenses into account. Though the costs of long-term care are indeed sobering, a little up-front planning, and a lot of up-front saving, can make them all the more bearable when you're older.</p>
<p>The $15,834 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook If you're like most Americans, you're a few years (or more) behind on your retirement savings. But a handful of little-known "Social Security secrets" could help ensure a boost in your retirement income. For example: one easy trick could pay you as much as $15,834 more... each year! Once you learn how to maximize your Social Security benefits, we think you could retire confidently with the peace of mind we're all after. <a href="http://www.fool.com/mms/mark/ecap-foolcom-social-security?aid=8727&amp;source=irreditxt0000002&amp;ftm_cam=ryr-ss-intro-report&amp;ftm_pit=3186&amp;ftm_veh=article_pitch&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Simply click here to discover how to learn more about these strategies Opens a New Window.</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://my.fool.com/profile/TMFBookNerd/info.aspx" type="external">Maurie Backman Opens a New Window.</a> has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/Legal/fool-disclosure-policy.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p> | 599,168 |
<p>wellesenterprises/iStock</p>
<p />
<p>States will not be allowed to block federal funding to health care providers for performing abortions, <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2016/12/14/hhs-issues-final-regulation-increase-access-affordable-family-planning-and-preventive-services.html" type="external">thanks to under a new rule from the Obama administration</a>. <a href="http://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2016/12/14/505595090/obama-administration-moves-to-protect-planned-parenthoods-federal-funding" type="external">Under the regulation</a>, states will be prohibited from withholding federal grants for family planning from Planned Parenthood. On Wednesday, the Department of Health and Human Service finalized the rule, <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/14/us/politics/obama-administration-planned-parenthood.html?_r=0" type="external">which was first proposed about three months ago</a>.</p>
<p>The move comes in the wake of a national effort by Republicans to defund Planned Parenthood—both in <a href="" type="internal">statehouses around the country</a> and <a href="" type="internal">in Congress</a>—which took off after the anti-abortion nonprofit Center for Medical Progress released secretly recorded and deceptively edited videos in 2015 that it claimed showed Planned Parenthood officials discussing the illegal sale of fetal tissue. The videos have been <a href="" type="internal">widely discredited</a>, but the attacks on access to reproductive health care continue.</p>
<p>President Barack Obama warned states earlier this year that they’d be “ <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/14/us/politics/obama-administration-planned-parenthood.html?_r=0" type="external">out of compliance with federal law</a>” if they refused to make Medicaid payments to Planned Parenthood clinics. <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-nation/wp/2016/04/19/obama-officials-warn-states-about-cutting-medicaid-funds-to-planned-parenthood/?utm_term=.3bb6e5f28c5f" type="external">Several states</a> have tried to block Medicaid funds, which they receive from the federal government and distribute to health care providers, from going to clinics that perform abortions, even though federal law <a href="" type="internal">already prohibits</a> that money from being used for abortions in almost all cases. <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/14/us/politics/obama-administration-planned-parenthood.html?_r=0" type="external">State courts</a> have also found restrictions illegal because they limit health care access for low-income recipients.</p>
<p>But the question of whether states can choose to withhold family planning grants—known as Title X funds—from health care providers that perform abortions <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/14/us/politics/obama-administration-planned-parenthood.html?_r=0" type="external">has remained unanswered</a> until now. <a href="https://www.plannedparenthood.org/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/obama-administration-protects-access-to-health-care-for-millions-of-people1" type="external">According to Planned Parenthood</a>, 85 percent of people who benefit from Title X have incomes below the federal poverty line, and nearly half are uninsured.</p>
<p>The rule prohibiting states from withholding Title X funds will go into effect just two days before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Trump <a href="" type="internal">has said</a> he wants to defund Planned Parenthood.</p>
<p>“President Obama has cemented his legacy as a champion for women’s health,”&#160;Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood, <a href="https://www.plannedparenthood.org/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/obama-administration-protects-access-to-health-care-for-millions-of-people1" type="external">said in a statement</a>. “This rule protects birth control, cancer screenings, STI testing and treatment, and other health care for millions of people. Yet this fight is not over. We are deeply concerned about the future of health care access in this country with extremists like Mike Pence and and Tom Price at the helm.”</p>
<p>Price, Trump’s pick for secretary of health and human services, has a long history of working to limit access to contraception and abortion, as Mother Jones <a href="" type="internal">reported last week</a>. Reproductive rights advocates are also concerned about Congress, where both chambers voted a year ago to defund Planned Parenthood. Only Obama’s veto <a href="" type="internal">stood in the way</a>.</p>
<p /> | Obama Tries to Protect Planned Parenthood Funding Before Republicans Can Take It Away | true | https://motherjones.com/politics/2016/12/obama-rule-planned-parenthood-title-x-grants/ | 2016-12-15 | 4left
| Obama Tries to Protect Planned Parenthood Funding Before Republicans Can Take It Away
<p>wellesenterprises/iStock</p>
<p />
<p>States will not be allowed to block federal funding to health care providers for performing abortions, <a href="https://www.hhs.gov/about/news/2016/12/14/hhs-issues-final-regulation-increase-access-affordable-family-planning-and-preventive-services.html" type="external">thanks to under a new rule from the Obama administration</a>. <a href="http://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2016/12/14/505595090/obama-administration-moves-to-protect-planned-parenthoods-federal-funding" type="external">Under the regulation</a>, states will be prohibited from withholding federal grants for family planning from Planned Parenthood. On Wednesday, the Department of Health and Human Service finalized the rule, <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/14/us/politics/obama-administration-planned-parenthood.html?_r=0" type="external">which was first proposed about three months ago</a>.</p>
<p>The move comes in the wake of a national effort by Republicans to defund Planned Parenthood—both in <a href="" type="internal">statehouses around the country</a> and <a href="" type="internal">in Congress</a>—which took off after the anti-abortion nonprofit Center for Medical Progress released secretly recorded and deceptively edited videos in 2015 that it claimed showed Planned Parenthood officials discussing the illegal sale of fetal tissue. The videos have been <a href="" type="internal">widely discredited</a>, but the attacks on access to reproductive health care continue.</p>
<p>President Barack Obama warned states earlier this year that they’d be “ <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/14/us/politics/obama-administration-planned-parenthood.html?_r=0" type="external">out of compliance with federal law</a>” if they refused to make Medicaid payments to Planned Parenthood clinics. <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/post-nation/wp/2016/04/19/obama-officials-warn-states-about-cutting-medicaid-funds-to-planned-parenthood/?utm_term=.3bb6e5f28c5f" type="external">Several states</a> have tried to block Medicaid funds, which they receive from the federal government and distribute to health care providers, from going to clinics that perform abortions, even though federal law <a href="" type="internal">already prohibits</a> that money from being used for abortions in almost all cases. <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/14/us/politics/obama-administration-planned-parenthood.html?_r=0" type="external">State courts</a> have also found restrictions illegal because they limit health care access for low-income recipients.</p>
<p>But the question of whether states can choose to withhold family planning grants—known as Title X funds—from health care providers that perform abortions <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/12/14/us/politics/obama-administration-planned-parenthood.html?_r=0" type="external">has remained unanswered</a> until now. <a href="https://www.plannedparenthood.org/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/obama-administration-protects-access-to-health-care-for-millions-of-people1" type="external">According to Planned Parenthood</a>, 85 percent of people who benefit from Title X have incomes below the federal poverty line, and nearly half are uninsured.</p>
<p>The rule prohibiting states from withholding Title X funds will go into effect just two days before President-elect Donald Trump takes office. Trump <a href="" type="internal">has said</a> he wants to defund Planned Parenthood.</p>
<p>“President Obama has cemented his legacy as a champion for women’s health,”&#160;Cecile Richards, president of Planned Parenthood, <a href="https://www.plannedparenthood.org/about-us/newsroom/press-releases/obama-administration-protects-access-to-health-care-for-millions-of-people1" type="external">said in a statement</a>. “This rule protects birth control, cancer screenings, STI testing and treatment, and other health care for millions of people. Yet this fight is not over. We are deeply concerned about the future of health care access in this country with extremists like Mike Pence and and Tom Price at the helm.”</p>
<p>Price, Trump’s pick for secretary of health and human services, has a long history of working to limit access to contraception and abortion, as Mother Jones <a href="" type="internal">reported last week</a>. Reproductive rights advocates are also concerned about Congress, where both chambers voted a year ago to defund Planned Parenthood. Only Obama’s veto <a href="" type="internal">stood in the way</a>.</p>
<p /> | 599,169 |
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>Those were the words of Synthia Varela-Casaus, who was indicted last week on a charge of child abuse resulting in death for killing her 9-year-old son, Omaree.</p>
<p>Her actions and her son’s death have pushed child abuse back into the public conversation where, if we know what’s good for us, it will stay for a while.</p>
<p>Varela-Casaus has been held up as a monster for what she did and what she said. After all, “I kicked him the wrong way” implies there is a right way to kick a child.</p>
<p />
<p>She’s an easy punching bag, but I wonder how much she was just letting slip the reality of what passes for discipline behind a lot of New Mexicans’ doors.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>The New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department sees about 7,000 substantiated cases of child abuse or neglect in any given year. (Tens of thousands of reports come in each year that are not substantiated.) Seven thousand seems like a lot, but those are only the cases of actual abuse that are brought to the state’s attention – the Omaree Varelas and other children who live lives of violence.</p>
<p>If every child who was hurt by a relative who was angry or drunk or high made a complaint to the state, I can’t imagine that the investigative, court and foster care systems could handle them all.</p>
<p>VARELA-CASAUS: Indicted in son’s death</p>
<p>That’s not a hopeful thought, but the enduring cycle of child abuse doesn’t give rise to much optimism.</p>
<p>Experts will tell you that the dynamics of child abuse are inter-generational. You get hit with a belt or smacked in the head when you’re a child and you grow up thinking that’s what parenting looks like. Things that take generations to learn are not easily undone.</p>
<p>A former court-appointed special advocate, one of the volunteers who shadow children and look out for their interests after their families have come under intervention by the state for child abuse or neglect, dropped me a disheartening note about her experience.</p>
<p>CASAs, as they’re called, frequently clash with birth families, foster families, caseworkers from CYFD and anyone else in the system they believe isn’t working for the benefit of the child. It’s an important, draining and mostly thankless job.</p>
<p>One of the most confounding facets of this CASA’s experience, she said, was working within the CYFD’s priority of reuniting abused or neglected children with their families.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“It sounds very idealistic,” she wrote, “but the truth is most of the families investigated for abuse and neglect are so broken they can never be fixed. Often, the problem goes back generations.”</p>
<p>When their children are removed from their parents and placed in state custody, the parents are given a year to improve the aspects of their lives that led to their children being removed. One year to fix poverty, substance abuse, mental illness and a pattern of violent parenting that goes back generations?</p>
<p>“Unfortunately,” the former CASA wrote, “the cures for this dysfunctional and broken system are very politically incorrect and any politician with the courage to press for the comprehensive overhaul would be excoriated for being culturally insensitive and anti-family. Consequently, children will continue to suffer.”</p>
<p>I also spent time last week talking to state Sen. Michael Padilla, D-Albuquerque, a politician who is pressing for that overhaul.</p>
<p>Padilla may have the unique characteristics to be able to make a case for it: He’s a former abused kid.</p>
<p>PADILLA: Early intervention may stop abuse</p>
<p>Padilla and his siblings were taken from their home by CYFD, he told me. He spent time with his mother at a battered women’s shelter, about a year at All Faiths Receiving Home and years in different foster families. He was abused in his home and re-abused in one foster home.</p>
<p>Padilla was working on child abuse and neglect issues before Omaree Varela’s death three weeks ago, but that case, he said, brought more urgency to the issues.</p>
<p>“I know that this problem exists,” Padilla said. “I lived this child’s life.”</p>
<p>Padilla wasn’t looking for attention to his abuse; I drew him out on it.</p>
<p>“I’m 41 and I’ve just (recently) been able to talk about it,” he said. “It was that bad.”</p>
<p>Padilla has held town hall meetings about child welfare and has been in the news for calling on the New Mexico attorney general to appoint a bipartisan committee to investigate CYFD.</p>
<p>His own experience tells him that the abuse of children is a problem bigger than CYFD reforms. “We shouldn’t kid ourselves and think we can ever stamp out these issues,” he said.</p>
<p>Gov. Susana Martinez will back legislation that would keep greater pressure on parents to attend and complete parenting classes and other types of programs meant to change the weather inside their homes.</p>
<p>“We don’t have the authority to go back at CYFD and say, where are your certificates showing that you accomplished these things?” she said.</p>
<p>Her bill would allow CYFD to reopen a case if a parent does not comply with those directives given by a caseworker.</p>
<p>But Padilla said he also believes early intervention into children’s lives – and by extension intervention into their parents’ lives – would help to stop the generational cycle of child abuse.</p>
<p>We have been arguing for years about the cost to the state’s permanent funds for broad, comprehensive early childhood intervention, but imagine the cost savings of the next generation of children who grow up knowing how to get a job and keep a job, how to handle anger and frustration, and how to recognize the difference between guiding discipline and retributive violence.</p>
<p>UpFront is a daily front-page news and opinion column. Comment directly to Leslie at 823-3914 or <a href="" type="internal">[email protected]</a>. Go to <a href="" type="internal">ABQjournal.com/letters/new</a> to submit a letter to the editor.</p>
<p />
<p /> | The hard truths of child abuse | false | https://abqjournal.com/339289/child-abuse-is-a-bigger-problem-than-cyfd-reforms.html | 2least
| The hard truths of child abuse
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>Those were the words of Synthia Varela-Casaus, who was indicted last week on a charge of child abuse resulting in death for killing her 9-year-old son, Omaree.</p>
<p>Her actions and her son’s death have pushed child abuse back into the public conversation where, if we know what’s good for us, it will stay for a while.</p>
<p>Varela-Casaus has been held up as a monster for what she did and what she said. After all, “I kicked him the wrong way” implies there is a right way to kick a child.</p>
<p />
<p>She’s an easy punching bag, but I wonder how much she was just letting slip the reality of what passes for discipline behind a lot of New Mexicans’ doors.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>The New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department sees about 7,000 substantiated cases of child abuse or neglect in any given year. (Tens of thousands of reports come in each year that are not substantiated.) Seven thousand seems like a lot, but those are only the cases of actual abuse that are brought to the state’s attention – the Omaree Varelas and other children who live lives of violence.</p>
<p>If every child who was hurt by a relative who was angry or drunk or high made a complaint to the state, I can’t imagine that the investigative, court and foster care systems could handle them all.</p>
<p>VARELA-CASAUS: Indicted in son’s death</p>
<p>That’s not a hopeful thought, but the enduring cycle of child abuse doesn’t give rise to much optimism.</p>
<p>Experts will tell you that the dynamics of child abuse are inter-generational. You get hit with a belt or smacked in the head when you’re a child and you grow up thinking that’s what parenting looks like. Things that take generations to learn are not easily undone.</p>
<p>A former court-appointed special advocate, one of the volunteers who shadow children and look out for their interests after their families have come under intervention by the state for child abuse or neglect, dropped me a disheartening note about her experience.</p>
<p>CASAs, as they’re called, frequently clash with birth families, foster families, caseworkers from CYFD and anyone else in the system they believe isn’t working for the benefit of the child. It’s an important, draining and mostly thankless job.</p>
<p>One of the most confounding facets of this CASA’s experience, she said, was working within the CYFD’s priority of reuniting abused or neglected children with their families.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>“It sounds very idealistic,” she wrote, “but the truth is most of the families investigated for abuse and neglect are so broken they can never be fixed. Often, the problem goes back generations.”</p>
<p>When their children are removed from their parents and placed in state custody, the parents are given a year to improve the aspects of their lives that led to their children being removed. One year to fix poverty, substance abuse, mental illness and a pattern of violent parenting that goes back generations?</p>
<p>“Unfortunately,” the former CASA wrote, “the cures for this dysfunctional and broken system are very politically incorrect and any politician with the courage to press for the comprehensive overhaul would be excoriated for being culturally insensitive and anti-family. Consequently, children will continue to suffer.”</p>
<p>I also spent time last week talking to state Sen. Michael Padilla, D-Albuquerque, a politician who is pressing for that overhaul.</p>
<p>Padilla may have the unique characteristics to be able to make a case for it: He’s a former abused kid.</p>
<p>PADILLA: Early intervention may stop abuse</p>
<p>Padilla and his siblings were taken from their home by CYFD, he told me. He spent time with his mother at a battered women’s shelter, about a year at All Faiths Receiving Home and years in different foster families. He was abused in his home and re-abused in one foster home.</p>
<p>Padilla was working on child abuse and neglect issues before Omaree Varela’s death three weeks ago, but that case, he said, brought more urgency to the issues.</p>
<p>“I know that this problem exists,” Padilla said. “I lived this child’s life.”</p>
<p>Padilla wasn’t looking for attention to his abuse; I drew him out on it.</p>
<p>“I’m 41 and I’ve just (recently) been able to talk about it,” he said. “It was that bad.”</p>
<p>Padilla has held town hall meetings about child welfare and has been in the news for calling on the New Mexico attorney general to appoint a bipartisan committee to investigate CYFD.</p>
<p>His own experience tells him that the abuse of children is a problem bigger than CYFD reforms. “We shouldn’t kid ourselves and think we can ever stamp out these issues,” he said.</p>
<p>Gov. Susana Martinez will back legislation that would keep greater pressure on parents to attend and complete parenting classes and other types of programs meant to change the weather inside their homes.</p>
<p>“We don’t have the authority to go back at CYFD and say, where are your certificates showing that you accomplished these things?” she said.</p>
<p>Her bill would allow CYFD to reopen a case if a parent does not comply with those directives given by a caseworker.</p>
<p>But Padilla said he also believes early intervention into children’s lives – and by extension intervention into their parents’ lives – would help to stop the generational cycle of child abuse.</p>
<p>We have been arguing for years about the cost to the state’s permanent funds for broad, comprehensive early childhood intervention, but imagine the cost savings of the next generation of children who grow up knowing how to get a job and keep a job, how to handle anger and frustration, and how to recognize the difference between guiding discipline and retributive violence.</p>
<p>UpFront is a daily front-page news and opinion column. Comment directly to Leslie at 823-3914 or <a href="" type="internal">[email protected]</a>. Go to <a href="" type="internal">ABQjournal.com/letters/new</a> to submit a letter to the editor.</p>
<p />
<p /> | 599,170 |
|
<p>The Omnificent English Dictionary in Limerick Form (or OEDILF) has published more than 97,000 definitions written in the singsong poetry of a five-line limerick. Here are some examples selected from the website.</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>ABSTRACT</p>
<p>When my paint bottles spilled, how I swore!</p>
<p>They spread red, blue and yellow; what’s more,</p>
<p>Purple, orange and green</p>
<p>Then appeared in the scene</p>
<p>As an abstract was formed on the floor.</p>
<p>—by art bates</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>AEQUEOSALINOCALCALINOCERACEOALUMINOSOCUPREOVITRIOLIC</p>
<p>The waters where babies should frolic</p>
<p>Whenever they’re subject to cholic</p>
<p>Are aequeosalino-</p>
<p>calcalinoceraceo-</p>
<p>aluminosocupreovitriolic.</p>
<p>—by Graham Lester</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>BOILERPLATE</p>
<p>Here’s a boilerplate limerick style:</p>
<p>The rhythm and meter beguile.</p>
<p>The lines at the core</p>
<p>Are too droll to ignore,</p>
<p>And a joke at the end makes you smile.</p>
<p>—by David Schildkret</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>CCTV (closed-circuit television)</p>
<p>What’s to fear from a camera or three</p>
<p>And appearing on CCTV?</p>
<p>Having every move tracked</p>
<p>Is a comfort, in fact.</p>
<p>Why, the state’s like a brother to me.</p>
<p>—by speedysnail</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>CONTROL-W</p>
<p>Many websites you may have been cruising.</p>
<p>Time to close some you’re no longer using:</p>
<p>Hold Control plus one key:</p>
<p>Don’t think “close” and press “C″ —</p>
<p>No, it’s W. Ain’t that confusing?</p>
<p>—by zqms</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>DESCARTES, RENE</p>
<p>Trigger knows about physics, of course,</p>
<p>When it deals just with speed, mass or force.</p>
<p>But his mind tends to jam</p>
<p>On “I think, so I am.”</p>
<p>So please don’t put Descartes ’fore this horse.</p>
<p>—by zqms</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>EMOTIONAL BLACKMAIL</p>
<p>Emotional blackmail’s the way</p>
<p>I control him. I just have to say,</p>
<p>“If you leave me, I’ll cry,</p>
<p>Or possibly die.”</p>
<p>And his guilt makes me sure he will stay.</p>
<p>—by AndrewB</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>FIXED</p>
<p>When I spotted the typo, I cursed,</p>
<p>“Damn, this limerick is one of my worst!”</p>
<p>Had I fixed it, it could</p>
<p>Have been passably good.</p>
<p>I regret now not checking it fist.</p>
<p>—by Chris J. Strolin and Bob Egg</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>FULL MOON</p>
<p>Please, you must go! Goodnight, and adieu.</p>
<p>I’m just ... busy. Yes. That. Things to do ...</p>
<p>(It’s a full moon tonight—</p>
<p>When that orb’s round and bright,</p>
<p>I’ll be busy, all right.) Ah_AROOOOOOOOOOOOOO!</p>
<p>—by Reia Light</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>GIZZARD</p>
<p>The gizzard, as most here will know,</p>
<p>Is the route bird’s digestion must go.</p>
<p>This stomach, the second,</p>
<p>Grinds food (so it’s reckoned);</p>
<p>The first lets digestive juice flow.</p>
<p>—by psheil</p>
<p>The Omnificent English Dictionary in Limerick Form (or OEDILF) has published more than 97,000 definitions written in the singsong poetry of a five-line limerick. Here are some examples selected from the website.</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>ABSTRACT</p>
<p>When my paint bottles spilled, how I swore!</p>
<p>They spread red, blue and yellow; what’s more,</p>
<p>Purple, orange and green</p>
<p>Then appeared in the scene</p>
<p>As an abstract was formed on the floor.</p>
<p>—by art bates</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>AEQUEOSALINOCALCALINOCERACEOALUMINOSOCUPREOVITRIOLIC</p>
<p>The waters where babies should frolic</p>
<p>Whenever they’re subject to cholic</p>
<p>Are aequeosalino-</p>
<p>calcalinoceraceo-</p>
<p>aluminosocupreovitriolic.</p>
<p>—by Graham Lester</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>BOILERPLATE</p>
<p>Here’s a boilerplate limerick style:</p>
<p>The rhythm and meter beguile.</p>
<p>The lines at the core</p>
<p>Are too droll to ignore,</p>
<p>And a joke at the end makes you smile.</p>
<p>—by David Schildkret</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>CCTV (closed-circuit television)</p>
<p>What’s to fear from a camera or three</p>
<p>And appearing on CCTV?</p>
<p>Having every move tracked</p>
<p>Is a comfort, in fact.</p>
<p>Why, the state’s like a brother to me.</p>
<p>—by speedysnail</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>CONTROL-W</p>
<p>Many websites you may have been cruising.</p>
<p>Time to close some you’re no longer using:</p>
<p>Hold Control plus one key:</p>
<p>Don’t think “close” and press “C″ —</p>
<p>No, it’s W. Ain’t that confusing?</p>
<p>—by zqms</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>DESCARTES, RENE</p>
<p>Trigger knows about physics, of course,</p>
<p>When it deals just with speed, mass or force.</p>
<p>But his mind tends to jam</p>
<p>On “I think, so I am.”</p>
<p>So please don’t put Descartes ’fore this horse.</p>
<p>—by zqms</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>EMOTIONAL BLACKMAIL</p>
<p>Emotional blackmail’s the way</p>
<p>I control him. I just have to say,</p>
<p>“If you leave me, I’ll cry,</p>
<p>Or possibly die.”</p>
<p>And his guilt makes me sure he will stay.</p>
<p>—by AndrewB</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>FIXED</p>
<p>When I spotted the typo, I cursed,</p>
<p>“Damn, this limerick is one of my worst!”</p>
<p>Had I fixed it, it could</p>
<p>Have been passably good.</p>
<p>I regret now not checking it fist.</p>
<p>—by Chris J. Strolin and Bob Egg</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>FULL MOON</p>
<p>Please, you must go! Goodnight, and adieu.</p>
<p>I’m just ... busy. Yes. That. Things to do ...</p>
<p>(It’s a full moon tonight—</p>
<p>When that orb’s round and bright,</p>
<p>I’ll be busy, all right.) Ah_AROOOOOOOOOOOOOO!</p>
<p>—by Reia Light</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>GIZZARD</p>
<p>The gizzard, as most here will know,</p>
<p>Is the route bird’s digestion must go.</p>
<p>This stomach, the second,</p>
<p>Grinds food (so it’s reckoned);</p>
<p>The first lets digestive juice flow.</p>
<p>—by psheil</p> | How do you define a word with a limerick? Some examples | false | https://apnews.com/dd9ef28331c0448e8e139aaf034f26d1 | 2017-12-29 | 2least
| How do you define a word with a limerick? Some examples
<p>The Omnificent English Dictionary in Limerick Form (or OEDILF) has published more than 97,000 definitions written in the singsong poetry of a five-line limerick. Here are some examples selected from the website.</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>ABSTRACT</p>
<p>When my paint bottles spilled, how I swore!</p>
<p>They spread red, blue and yellow; what’s more,</p>
<p>Purple, orange and green</p>
<p>Then appeared in the scene</p>
<p>As an abstract was formed on the floor.</p>
<p>—by art bates</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>AEQUEOSALINOCALCALINOCERACEOALUMINOSOCUPREOVITRIOLIC</p>
<p>The waters where babies should frolic</p>
<p>Whenever they’re subject to cholic</p>
<p>Are aequeosalino-</p>
<p>calcalinoceraceo-</p>
<p>aluminosocupreovitriolic.</p>
<p>—by Graham Lester</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>BOILERPLATE</p>
<p>Here’s a boilerplate limerick style:</p>
<p>The rhythm and meter beguile.</p>
<p>The lines at the core</p>
<p>Are too droll to ignore,</p>
<p>And a joke at the end makes you smile.</p>
<p>—by David Schildkret</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>CCTV (closed-circuit television)</p>
<p>What’s to fear from a camera or three</p>
<p>And appearing on CCTV?</p>
<p>Having every move tracked</p>
<p>Is a comfort, in fact.</p>
<p>Why, the state’s like a brother to me.</p>
<p>—by speedysnail</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>CONTROL-W</p>
<p>Many websites you may have been cruising.</p>
<p>Time to close some you’re no longer using:</p>
<p>Hold Control plus one key:</p>
<p>Don’t think “close” and press “C″ —</p>
<p>No, it’s W. Ain’t that confusing?</p>
<p>—by zqms</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>DESCARTES, RENE</p>
<p>Trigger knows about physics, of course,</p>
<p>When it deals just with speed, mass or force.</p>
<p>But his mind tends to jam</p>
<p>On “I think, so I am.”</p>
<p>So please don’t put Descartes ’fore this horse.</p>
<p>—by zqms</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>EMOTIONAL BLACKMAIL</p>
<p>Emotional blackmail’s the way</p>
<p>I control him. I just have to say,</p>
<p>“If you leave me, I’ll cry,</p>
<p>Or possibly die.”</p>
<p>And his guilt makes me sure he will stay.</p>
<p>—by AndrewB</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>FIXED</p>
<p>When I spotted the typo, I cursed,</p>
<p>“Damn, this limerick is one of my worst!”</p>
<p>Had I fixed it, it could</p>
<p>Have been passably good.</p>
<p>I regret now not checking it fist.</p>
<p>—by Chris J. Strolin and Bob Egg</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>FULL MOON</p>
<p>Please, you must go! Goodnight, and adieu.</p>
<p>I’m just ... busy. Yes. That. Things to do ...</p>
<p>(It’s a full moon tonight—</p>
<p>When that orb’s round and bright,</p>
<p>I’ll be busy, all right.) Ah_AROOOOOOOOOOOOOO!</p>
<p>—by Reia Light</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>GIZZARD</p>
<p>The gizzard, as most here will know,</p>
<p>Is the route bird’s digestion must go.</p>
<p>This stomach, the second,</p>
<p>Grinds food (so it’s reckoned);</p>
<p>The first lets digestive juice flow.</p>
<p>—by psheil</p>
<p>The Omnificent English Dictionary in Limerick Form (or OEDILF) has published more than 97,000 definitions written in the singsong poetry of a five-line limerick. Here are some examples selected from the website.</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>ABSTRACT</p>
<p>When my paint bottles spilled, how I swore!</p>
<p>They spread red, blue and yellow; what’s more,</p>
<p>Purple, orange and green</p>
<p>Then appeared in the scene</p>
<p>As an abstract was formed on the floor.</p>
<p>—by art bates</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>AEQUEOSALINOCALCALINOCERACEOALUMINOSOCUPREOVITRIOLIC</p>
<p>The waters where babies should frolic</p>
<p>Whenever they’re subject to cholic</p>
<p>Are aequeosalino-</p>
<p>calcalinoceraceo-</p>
<p>aluminosocupreovitriolic.</p>
<p>—by Graham Lester</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>BOILERPLATE</p>
<p>Here’s a boilerplate limerick style:</p>
<p>The rhythm and meter beguile.</p>
<p>The lines at the core</p>
<p>Are too droll to ignore,</p>
<p>And a joke at the end makes you smile.</p>
<p>—by David Schildkret</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>CCTV (closed-circuit television)</p>
<p>What’s to fear from a camera or three</p>
<p>And appearing on CCTV?</p>
<p>Having every move tracked</p>
<p>Is a comfort, in fact.</p>
<p>Why, the state’s like a brother to me.</p>
<p>—by speedysnail</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>CONTROL-W</p>
<p>Many websites you may have been cruising.</p>
<p>Time to close some you’re no longer using:</p>
<p>Hold Control plus one key:</p>
<p>Don’t think “close” and press “C″ —</p>
<p>No, it’s W. Ain’t that confusing?</p>
<p>—by zqms</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>DESCARTES, RENE</p>
<p>Trigger knows about physics, of course,</p>
<p>When it deals just with speed, mass or force.</p>
<p>But his mind tends to jam</p>
<p>On “I think, so I am.”</p>
<p>So please don’t put Descartes ’fore this horse.</p>
<p>—by zqms</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>EMOTIONAL BLACKMAIL</p>
<p>Emotional blackmail’s the way</p>
<p>I control him. I just have to say,</p>
<p>“If you leave me, I’ll cry,</p>
<p>Or possibly die.”</p>
<p>And his guilt makes me sure he will stay.</p>
<p>—by AndrewB</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>FIXED</p>
<p>When I spotted the typo, I cursed,</p>
<p>“Damn, this limerick is one of my worst!”</p>
<p>Had I fixed it, it could</p>
<p>Have been passably good.</p>
<p>I regret now not checking it fist.</p>
<p>—by Chris J. Strolin and Bob Egg</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>FULL MOON</p>
<p>Please, you must go! Goodnight, and adieu.</p>
<p>I’m just ... busy. Yes. That. Things to do ...</p>
<p>(It’s a full moon tonight—</p>
<p>When that orb’s round and bright,</p>
<p>I’ll be busy, all right.) Ah_AROOOOOOOOOOOOOO!</p>
<p>—by Reia Light</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>GIZZARD</p>
<p>The gizzard, as most here will know,</p>
<p>Is the route bird’s digestion must go.</p>
<p>This stomach, the second,</p>
<p>Grinds food (so it’s reckoned);</p>
<p>The first lets digestive juice flow.</p>
<p>—by psheil</p> | 599,171 |
<p>TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Prosecutors are seeking a maximum 11-year sentence for a neo-Nazi group leader who stockpiled explosive material in the Florida apartment where a friend killed their two roommates, calling him an unrepentant ideologue who poses a serious danger once he gets out.</p>
<p>The sentencing of Brandon Russell, 22, is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday in federal court in Tampa.</p>
<p>Devon Arthurs, Russell's friend, awaits trial in state court on charges of murdering their two roommates, Andrew Oneschuk, 18, and Jeremy Himmelman, 22, both of Massachusetts.</p>
<p>Russell wasn't charged in the May 2017 killings, which exposed the four roommates' membership in Atomwaffen Division, an obscure neo-Nazi group co-founded by Arthurs and Russell that formed on the internet. Atomwaffen is German for "atomic weapon."</p>
<p>Inside Russell's bedroom, authorities said, they found several firearms, ammunition and a framed picture of Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh on Russell's bedroom dresser. Investigators also found a North Korean flag, multiple copies of Adolf Hitler's "Mein Kampf" and other neo-Nazi and white supremacist propaganda in the apartment.</p>
<p>"Russell had a place of prominence for the picture of his idol, Timothy McVeigh, someone who turned his ideology into violent action," wrote Assistant U.S. Attorney Josephine Thomas. "A photographic journey through Russell's apartment_the backdrop of the murder scene_is a chilling confirmation of Russell's intent to follow in the footsteps of his hero."</p>
<p>Russell set up a "mini-lab" in the garage, where investigators found explosive material stored in a cooler, near homemade detonator components and several pounds of ammonium nitrate, according to Thomas.</p>
<p>"Russell showed not an ounce of concern for his own life, his roommates' lives, or his (neighbors') lives," Thomas wrote.</p>
<p>Russell was wearing his Florida National Guard uniform and crying when police found him standing outside the Tampa apartment. Arthurs told police that Russell didn't know anything about the shooting.</p>
<p>Arthurs allegedly told investigators he killed his roommates for teasing him about his recent conversion to Islam. But he also told detectives he did it to thwart a terrorist attack by Atomwaffen. He claimed Russell, who would eventually plead guilty to illegally storing volatile explosive material and possessing an "unregistered destructive device," had materials in the house "to kill civilians and target locations like power lines, nuclear reactors, and synagogues," prosecutors said.</p>
<p>Relatives of the two slain friends have rejected those neo-Nazi labels and dismissed Arthurs' claims as the self-serving rantings of a sociopath.</p>
<p>But prosecutors say Russell — even after his arrest — has never disputed he was Atomwaffen's leader.</p>
<p>"The evidence of Russell's violent ideology and his conduct while incarcerated shows that he has tightly held beliefs that he will continue to promote," Thomas wrote.</p>
<p>In a court filing Sunday, prosecutors said Russell drew a diagram of how to make an explosive in a letter he apparently intended to be delivered to another "Atomwaffen Division" member outside jail. The FBI obtained copies in August of other letters in which Russell drew plans for an "Airborne Leaflet Dropping Device" showing Nazi propaganda falling from the sky, prosecutors said.</p>
<p>"In one letter, Russell attached a blurb about a 16-year-old Nazi who in 1962 told a judge, "I don't care HOW long you put me in jail, your Honor, ... as soon as I get out, I will go right back to fight for my White Race and my America!'"</p>
<p>Prosecutors also noted that since Russell's arrest, others who have committed crimes have cited an allegiance to his group and its ideology.</p>
<p>Prosecutors say sentencing guidelines calling for 24 months to 30 months in prison don't reflect the seriousness of Russell's actions, or the danger he still poses.</p>
<p>But Russell's attorney, Ian Goldstein, is asking for a more lenient sentence. He says his client has accepted responsibility for his crimes and is "dedicated to emerging from this situation a stronger person."</p>
<p>"As a 22-year-old former college student and member of the armed forces, the defendant has seen the future he once hoped for evaporate before his eyes," Goldstein wrote in a Jan. 2 filing. "He has accepted responsibility for his offenses, and looks forward to serving his sentence and attempting to move forward with a productive and law abiding life."</p>
<p>__</p>
<p>Kunzelman reported from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Associated Press reporter Jason Dearen in Gainesville contributed to this report.</p>
<p>TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Prosecutors are seeking a maximum 11-year sentence for a neo-Nazi group leader who stockpiled explosive material in the Florida apartment where a friend killed their two roommates, calling him an unrepentant ideologue who poses a serious danger once he gets out.</p>
<p>The sentencing of Brandon Russell, 22, is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday in federal court in Tampa.</p>
<p>Devon Arthurs, Russell's friend, awaits trial in state court on charges of murdering their two roommates, Andrew Oneschuk, 18, and Jeremy Himmelman, 22, both of Massachusetts.</p>
<p>Russell wasn't charged in the May 2017 killings, which exposed the four roommates' membership in Atomwaffen Division, an obscure neo-Nazi group co-founded by Arthurs and Russell that formed on the internet. Atomwaffen is German for "atomic weapon."</p>
<p>Inside Russell's bedroom, authorities said, they found several firearms, ammunition and a framed picture of Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh on Russell's bedroom dresser. Investigators also found a North Korean flag, multiple copies of Adolf Hitler's "Mein Kampf" and other neo-Nazi and white supremacist propaganda in the apartment.</p>
<p>"Russell had a place of prominence for the picture of his idol, Timothy McVeigh, someone who turned his ideology into violent action," wrote Assistant U.S. Attorney Josephine Thomas. "A photographic journey through Russell's apartment_the backdrop of the murder scene_is a chilling confirmation of Russell's intent to follow in the footsteps of his hero."</p>
<p>Russell set up a "mini-lab" in the garage, where investigators found explosive material stored in a cooler, near homemade detonator components and several pounds of ammonium nitrate, according to Thomas.</p>
<p>"Russell showed not an ounce of concern for his own life, his roommates' lives, or his (neighbors') lives," Thomas wrote.</p>
<p>Russell was wearing his Florida National Guard uniform and crying when police found him standing outside the Tampa apartment. Arthurs told police that Russell didn't know anything about the shooting.</p>
<p>Arthurs allegedly told investigators he killed his roommates for teasing him about his recent conversion to Islam. But he also told detectives he did it to thwart a terrorist attack by Atomwaffen. He claimed Russell, who would eventually plead guilty to illegally storing volatile explosive material and possessing an "unregistered destructive device," had materials in the house "to kill civilians and target locations like power lines, nuclear reactors, and synagogues," prosecutors said.</p>
<p>Relatives of the two slain friends have rejected those neo-Nazi labels and dismissed Arthurs' claims as the self-serving rantings of a sociopath.</p>
<p>But prosecutors say Russell — even after his arrest — has never disputed he was Atomwaffen's leader.</p>
<p>"The evidence of Russell's violent ideology and his conduct while incarcerated shows that he has tightly held beliefs that he will continue to promote," Thomas wrote.</p>
<p>In a court filing Sunday, prosecutors said Russell drew a diagram of how to make an explosive in a letter he apparently intended to be delivered to another "Atomwaffen Division" member outside jail. The FBI obtained copies in August of other letters in which Russell drew plans for an "Airborne Leaflet Dropping Device" showing Nazi propaganda falling from the sky, prosecutors said.</p>
<p>"In one letter, Russell attached a blurb about a 16-year-old Nazi who in 1962 told a judge, "I don't care HOW long you put me in jail, your Honor, ... as soon as I get out, I will go right back to fight for my White Race and my America!'"</p>
<p>Prosecutors also noted that since Russell's arrest, others who have committed crimes have cited an allegiance to his group and its ideology.</p>
<p>Prosecutors say sentencing guidelines calling for 24 months to 30 months in prison don't reflect the seriousness of Russell's actions, or the danger he still poses.</p>
<p>But Russell's attorney, Ian Goldstein, is asking for a more lenient sentence. He says his client has accepted responsibility for his crimes and is "dedicated to emerging from this situation a stronger person."</p>
<p>"As a 22-year-old former college student and member of the armed forces, the defendant has seen the future he once hoped for evaporate before his eyes," Goldstein wrote in a Jan. 2 filing. "He has accepted responsibility for his offenses, and looks forward to serving his sentence and attempting to move forward with a productive and law abiding life."</p>
<p>__</p>
<p>Kunzelman reported from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Associated Press reporter Jason Dearen in Gainesville contributed to this report.</p> | Neo-Nazi group leader scheduled for federal court sentencing | false | https://apnews.com/amp/f0acedb5b68545a9a119fb35b2d2b968 | 2018-01-09 | 2least
| Neo-Nazi group leader scheduled for federal court sentencing
<p>TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Prosecutors are seeking a maximum 11-year sentence for a neo-Nazi group leader who stockpiled explosive material in the Florida apartment where a friend killed their two roommates, calling him an unrepentant ideologue who poses a serious danger once he gets out.</p>
<p>The sentencing of Brandon Russell, 22, is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday in federal court in Tampa.</p>
<p>Devon Arthurs, Russell's friend, awaits trial in state court on charges of murdering their two roommates, Andrew Oneschuk, 18, and Jeremy Himmelman, 22, both of Massachusetts.</p>
<p>Russell wasn't charged in the May 2017 killings, which exposed the four roommates' membership in Atomwaffen Division, an obscure neo-Nazi group co-founded by Arthurs and Russell that formed on the internet. Atomwaffen is German for "atomic weapon."</p>
<p>Inside Russell's bedroom, authorities said, they found several firearms, ammunition and a framed picture of Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh on Russell's bedroom dresser. Investigators also found a North Korean flag, multiple copies of Adolf Hitler's "Mein Kampf" and other neo-Nazi and white supremacist propaganda in the apartment.</p>
<p>"Russell had a place of prominence for the picture of his idol, Timothy McVeigh, someone who turned his ideology into violent action," wrote Assistant U.S. Attorney Josephine Thomas. "A photographic journey through Russell's apartment_the backdrop of the murder scene_is a chilling confirmation of Russell's intent to follow in the footsteps of his hero."</p>
<p>Russell set up a "mini-lab" in the garage, where investigators found explosive material stored in a cooler, near homemade detonator components and several pounds of ammonium nitrate, according to Thomas.</p>
<p>"Russell showed not an ounce of concern for his own life, his roommates' lives, or his (neighbors') lives," Thomas wrote.</p>
<p>Russell was wearing his Florida National Guard uniform and crying when police found him standing outside the Tampa apartment. Arthurs told police that Russell didn't know anything about the shooting.</p>
<p>Arthurs allegedly told investigators he killed his roommates for teasing him about his recent conversion to Islam. But he also told detectives he did it to thwart a terrorist attack by Atomwaffen. He claimed Russell, who would eventually plead guilty to illegally storing volatile explosive material and possessing an "unregistered destructive device," had materials in the house "to kill civilians and target locations like power lines, nuclear reactors, and synagogues," prosecutors said.</p>
<p>Relatives of the two slain friends have rejected those neo-Nazi labels and dismissed Arthurs' claims as the self-serving rantings of a sociopath.</p>
<p>But prosecutors say Russell — even after his arrest — has never disputed he was Atomwaffen's leader.</p>
<p>"The evidence of Russell's violent ideology and his conduct while incarcerated shows that he has tightly held beliefs that he will continue to promote," Thomas wrote.</p>
<p>In a court filing Sunday, prosecutors said Russell drew a diagram of how to make an explosive in a letter he apparently intended to be delivered to another "Atomwaffen Division" member outside jail. The FBI obtained copies in August of other letters in which Russell drew plans for an "Airborne Leaflet Dropping Device" showing Nazi propaganda falling from the sky, prosecutors said.</p>
<p>"In one letter, Russell attached a blurb about a 16-year-old Nazi who in 1962 told a judge, "I don't care HOW long you put me in jail, your Honor, ... as soon as I get out, I will go right back to fight for my White Race and my America!'"</p>
<p>Prosecutors also noted that since Russell's arrest, others who have committed crimes have cited an allegiance to his group and its ideology.</p>
<p>Prosecutors say sentencing guidelines calling for 24 months to 30 months in prison don't reflect the seriousness of Russell's actions, or the danger he still poses.</p>
<p>But Russell's attorney, Ian Goldstein, is asking for a more lenient sentence. He says his client has accepted responsibility for his crimes and is "dedicated to emerging from this situation a stronger person."</p>
<p>"As a 22-year-old former college student and member of the armed forces, the defendant has seen the future he once hoped for evaporate before his eyes," Goldstein wrote in a Jan. 2 filing. "He has accepted responsibility for his offenses, and looks forward to serving his sentence and attempting to move forward with a productive and law abiding life."</p>
<p>__</p>
<p>Kunzelman reported from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Associated Press reporter Jason Dearen in Gainesville contributed to this report.</p>
<p>TAMPA, Fla. (AP) — Prosecutors are seeking a maximum 11-year sentence for a neo-Nazi group leader who stockpiled explosive material in the Florida apartment where a friend killed their two roommates, calling him an unrepentant ideologue who poses a serious danger once he gets out.</p>
<p>The sentencing of Brandon Russell, 22, is scheduled for 9 a.m. Tuesday in federal court in Tampa.</p>
<p>Devon Arthurs, Russell's friend, awaits trial in state court on charges of murdering their two roommates, Andrew Oneschuk, 18, and Jeremy Himmelman, 22, both of Massachusetts.</p>
<p>Russell wasn't charged in the May 2017 killings, which exposed the four roommates' membership in Atomwaffen Division, an obscure neo-Nazi group co-founded by Arthurs and Russell that formed on the internet. Atomwaffen is German for "atomic weapon."</p>
<p>Inside Russell's bedroom, authorities said, they found several firearms, ammunition and a framed picture of Oklahoma City bomber Timothy McVeigh on Russell's bedroom dresser. Investigators also found a North Korean flag, multiple copies of Adolf Hitler's "Mein Kampf" and other neo-Nazi and white supremacist propaganda in the apartment.</p>
<p>"Russell had a place of prominence for the picture of his idol, Timothy McVeigh, someone who turned his ideology into violent action," wrote Assistant U.S. Attorney Josephine Thomas. "A photographic journey through Russell's apartment_the backdrop of the murder scene_is a chilling confirmation of Russell's intent to follow in the footsteps of his hero."</p>
<p>Russell set up a "mini-lab" in the garage, where investigators found explosive material stored in a cooler, near homemade detonator components and several pounds of ammonium nitrate, according to Thomas.</p>
<p>"Russell showed not an ounce of concern for his own life, his roommates' lives, or his (neighbors') lives," Thomas wrote.</p>
<p>Russell was wearing his Florida National Guard uniform and crying when police found him standing outside the Tampa apartment. Arthurs told police that Russell didn't know anything about the shooting.</p>
<p>Arthurs allegedly told investigators he killed his roommates for teasing him about his recent conversion to Islam. But he also told detectives he did it to thwart a terrorist attack by Atomwaffen. He claimed Russell, who would eventually plead guilty to illegally storing volatile explosive material and possessing an "unregistered destructive device," had materials in the house "to kill civilians and target locations like power lines, nuclear reactors, and synagogues," prosecutors said.</p>
<p>Relatives of the two slain friends have rejected those neo-Nazi labels and dismissed Arthurs' claims as the self-serving rantings of a sociopath.</p>
<p>But prosecutors say Russell — even after his arrest — has never disputed he was Atomwaffen's leader.</p>
<p>"The evidence of Russell's violent ideology and his conduct while incarcerated shows that he has tightly held beliefs that he will continue to promote," Thomas wrote.</p>
<p>In a court filing Sunday, prosecutors said Russell drew a diagram of how to make an explosive in a letter he apparently intended to be delivered to another "Atomwaffen Division" member outside jail. The FBI obtained copies in August of other letters in which Russell drew plans for an "Airborne Leaflet Dropping Device" showing Nazi propaganda falling from the sky, prosecutors said.</p>
<p>"In one letter, Russell attached a blurb about a 16-year-old Nazi who in 1962 told a judge, "I don't care HOW long you put me in jail, your Honor, ... as soon as I get out, I will go right back to fight for my White Race and my America!'"</p>
<p>Prosecutors also noted that since Russell's arrest, others who have committed crimes have cited an allegiance to his group and its ideology.</p>
<p>Prosecutors say sentencing guidelines calling for 24 months to 30 months in prison don't reflect the seriousness of Russell's actions, or the danger he still poses.</p>
<p>But Russell's attorney, Ian Goldstein, is asking for a more lenient sentence. He says his client has accepted responsibility for his crimes and is "dedicated to emerging from this situation a stronger person."</p>
<p>"As a 22-year-old former college student and member of the armed forces, the defendant has seen the future he once hoped for evaporate before his eyes," Goldstein wrote in a Jan. 2 filing. "He has accepted responsibility for his offenses, and looks forward to serving his sentence and attempting to move forward with a productive and law abiding life."</p>
<p>__</p>
<p>Kunzelman reported from Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Associated Press reporter Jason Dearen in Gainesville contributed to this report.</p> | 599,172 |
<p>All-you-can-eat ribs, anyone? You may want to think twice — no, maybe three times — efore heading to your local Golden Corral.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKXrL5syc_s" type="external">A video</a> shot by cook Brandon Huber shows one of the chain's restaurants in Florida storing ribs, burger patties, bacon and other perishable food near a dumpster outside.</p>
<p>Black flies can be seen swarming around some of the meat.</p>
<p>More from GlobalPost: <a href="http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/globalpost-blogs/weird-wide-web/130605/taco-bell-employee-axed-over-licking-incident" type="external">Taco Bell employee axed over licking incident</a></p>
<p>"To me this is disgusting," Huber says in <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKXrL5syc_s" type="external">the video</a> that's now gone viral. "This is what my company likes to do to get ready for inspection. They like to put their food by the dumpster. I'm an employee here. I've been working here for a long time. And I don't feel that this is right."</p>
<p>He <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/08/golden-corral-dumpster_n_3560786.html" type="external">further alleges</a> the food would normally be brought back inside and served to customers at the Port Orange, Fla., location.</p>
<p>Eric Holm, the owner of the Golden Corral where the video was filmed, <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/08/golden-corral-dumpster_n_3560786.html" type="external">told The Huffington Post</a> the manager involved in the snafu has been fired.</p>
<p>In a statement responding to a <a href="http://gawker.com/golden-corrals-disgusting-food-storage-system-exposed-700423656" type="external">&#160;post by Gawker</a>, Golden Corral said none of the food in the video was served and that Huber himself helped dispose of it.</p>
<p>More from GlobalPost: <a href="http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/health/130201/burger-king-caught-horse-meat-scandal" type="external">Burger King caught in horse meat scandal</a></p>
<p>They further allege that Huber's dad tried to sell them the video for $5,000 — an offer that was rejected.</p>
<p>Some <a href="http://www.dailydot.com/lol/golden-corral-health-inspection-secret-video/" type="external">are calling Huber</a> the fast-food world's Edward Snowden (tongue firmly in cheek).</p>
<p>But the fallout from this PR disaster is likely to be no joke.</p>
<p />
<p /> | Golden Corral dumpster ribs? Video shows trays next to trash | false | https://pri.org/stories/2013-07-08/golden-corral-dumpster-ribs-video-shows-trays-next-trash | 2013-07-08 | 3left-center
| Golden Corral dumpster ribs? Video shows trays next to trash
<p>All-you-can-eat ribs, anyone? You may want to think twice — no, maybe three times — efore heading to your local Golden Corral.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKXrL5syc_s" type="external">A video</a> shot by cook Brandon Huber shows one of the chain's restaurants in Florida storing ribs, burger patties, bacon and other perishable food near a dumpster outside.</p>
<p>Black flies can be seen swarming around some of the meat.</p>
<p>More from GlobalPost: <a href="http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/globalpost-blogs/weird-wide-web/130605/taco-bell-employee-axed-over-licking-incident" type="external">Taco Bell employee axed over licking incident</a></p>
<p>"To me this is disgusting," Huber says in <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IKXrL5syc_s" type="external">the video</a> that's now gone viral. "This is what my company likes to do to get ready for inspection. They like to put their food by the dumpster. I'm an employee here. I've been working here for a long time. And I don't feel that this is right."</p>
<p>He <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/08/golden-corral-dumpster_n_3560786.html" type="external">further alleges</a> the food would normally be brought back inside and served to customers at the Port Orange, Fla., location.</p>
<p>Eric Holm, the owner of the Golden Corral where the video was filmed, <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/08/golden-corral-dumpster_n_3560786.html" type="external">told The Huffington Post</a> the manager involved in the snafu has been fired.</p>
<p>In a statement responding to a <a href="http://gawker.com/golden-corrals-disgusting-food-storage-system-exposed-700423656" type="external">&#160;post by Gawker</a>, Golden Corral said none of the food in the video was served and that Huber himself helped dispose of it.</p>
<p>More from GlobalPost: <a href="http://www.globalpost.com/dispatch/news/health/130201/burger-king-caught-horse-meat-scandal" type="external">Burger King caught in horse meat scandal</a></p>
<p>They further allege that Huber's dad tried to sell them the video for $5,000 — an offer that was rejected.</p>
<p>Some <a href="http://www.dailydot.com/lol/golden-corral-health-inspection-secret-video/" type="external">are calling Huber</a> the fast-food world's Edward Snowden (tongue firmly in cheek).</p>
<p>But the fallout from this PR disaster is likely to be no joke.</p>
<p />
<p /> | 599,173 |
<p>ATLANTA (AP) _ These Georgia lotteries were drawn Tuesday:</p>
<p>5 Card Cash</p>
<p>JD-KH-3H-10H-2S</p>
<p>(JD, KH, 3H, 10H, 2S)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Day</p>
<p>01-04-05-06-08-09-13-15-16-18-22-23</p>
<p>(one, four, five, six, eight, nine, thirteen, fifteen, sixteen, eighteen, twenty-two, twenty-three)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Evening</p>
<p>01-04-06-07-08-09-10-11-13-14-15-22</p>
<p>(one, four, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, twenty-two)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Morning</p>
<p>01-02-03-09-14-15-16-17-18-19-20-24</p>
<p>(one, two, three, nine, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-four)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Night</p>
<p>02-03-05-06-09-10-12-18-19-20-22-24</p>
<p>(two, three, five, six, nine, ten, twelve, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-two, twenty-four)</p>
<p>Cash 3 Evening</p>
<p>8-0-5</p>
<p>(eight, zero, five)</p>
<p>Cash 3 Midday</p>
<p>6-7-7</p>
<p>(six, seven, seven)</p>
<p>Cash 3 Night</p>
<p>4-1-2</p>
<p>(four, one, two)</p>
<p>Cash 4 Evening</p>
<p>4-7-3-6</p>
<p>(four, seven, three, six)</p>
<p>Cash 4 Midday</p>
<p>4-3-4-9</p>
<p>(four, three, four, nine)</p>
<p>Cash 4 Night</p>
<p>2-7-6-9</p>
<p>(two, seven, six, nine)</p>
<p>Fantasy 5</p>
<p>02-19-20-38-40</p>
<p>(two, nineteen, twenty, thirty-eight, forty)</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $498,000</p>
<p>Georgia FIVE Evening</p>
<p>7-5-4-9-3</p>
<p>(seven, five, four, nine, three)</p>
<p>Georgia FIVE Midday</p>
<p>3-3-6-1-6</p>
<p>(three, three, six, one, six)</p>
<p>Mega Millions</p>
<p>03-11-23-29-59, Mega Ball: 18, Megaplier: 3</p>
<p>(three, eleven, twenty-three, twenty-nine, fifty-nine; Mega Ball: eighteen; Megaplier: three)</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $50 million</p>
<p>Powerball</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $62 million</p>
<p>ATLANTA (AP) _ These Georgia lotteries were drawn Tuesday:</p>
<p>5 Card Cash</p>
<p>JD-KH-3H-10H-2S</p>
<p>(JD, KH, 3H, 10H, 2S)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Day</p>
<p>01-04-05-06-08-09-13-15-16-18-22-23</p>
<p>(one, four, five, six, eight, nine, thirteen, fifteen, sixteen, eighteen, twenty-two, twenty-three)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Evening</p>
<p>01-04-06-07-08-09-10-11-13-14-15-22</p>
<p>(one, four, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, twenty-two)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Morning</p>
<p>01-02-03-09-14-15-16-17-18-19-20-24</p>
<p>(one, two, three, nine, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-four)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Night</p>
<p>02-03-05-06-09-10-12-18-19-20-22-24</p>
<p>(two, three, five, six, nine, ten, twelve, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-two, twenty-four)</p>
<p>Cash 3 Evening</p>
<p>8-0-5</p>
<p>(eight, zero, five)</p>
<p>Cash 3 Midday</p>
<p>6-7-7</p>
<p>(six, seven, seven)</p>
<p>Cash 3 Night</p>
<p>4-1-2</p>
<p>(four, one, two)</p>
<p>Cash 4 Evening</p>
<p>4-7-3-6</p>
<p>(four, seven, three, six)</p>
<p>Cash 4 Midday</p>
<p>4-3-4-9</p>
<p>(four, three, four, nine)</p>
<p>Cash 4 Night</p>
<p>2-7-6-9</p>
<p>(two, seven, six, nine)</p>
<p>Fantasy 5</p>
<p>02-19-20-38-40</p>
<p>(two, nineteen, twenty, thirty-eight, forty)</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $498,000</p>
<p>Georgia FIVE Evening</p>
<p>7-5-4-9-3</p>
<p>(seven, five, four, nine, three)</p>
<p>Georgia FIVE Midday</p>
<p>3-3-6-1-6</p>
<p>(three, three, six, one, six)</p>
<p>Mega Millions</p>
<p>03-11-23-29-59, Mega Ball: 18, Megaplier: 3</p>
<p>(three, eleven, twenty-three, twenty-nine, fifty-nine; Mega Ball: eighteen; Megaplier: three)</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $50 million</p>
<p>Powerball</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $62 million</p> | GA Lottery | false | https://apnews.com/0403302eaa5a40598d798a29e2c15219 | 2018-01-17 | 2least
| GA Lottery
<p>ATLANTA (AP) _ These Georgia lotteries were drawn Tuesday:</p>
<p>5 Card Cash</p>
<p>JD-KH-3H-10H-2S</p>
<p>(JD, KH, 3H, 10H, 2S)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Day</p>
<p>01-04-05-06-08-09-13-15-16-18-22-23</p>
<p>(one, four, five, six, eight, nine, thirteen, fifteen, sixteen, eighteen, twenty-two, twenty-three)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Evening</p>
<p>01-04-06-07-08-09-10-11-13-14-15-22</p>
<p>(one, four, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, twenty-two)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Morning</p>
<p>01-02-03-09-14-15-16-17-18-19-20-24</p>
<p>(one, two, three, nine, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-four)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Night</p>
<p>02-03-05-06-09-10-12-18-19-20-22-24</p>
<p>(two, three, five, six, nine, ten, twelve, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-two, twenty-four)</p>
<p>Cash 3 Evening</p>
<p>8-0-5</p>
<p>(eight, zero, five)</p>
<p>Cash 3 Midday</p>
<p>6-7-7</p>
<p>(six, seven, seven)</p>
<p>Cash 3 Night</p>
<p>4-1-2</p>
<p>(four, one, two)</p>
<p>Cash 4 Evening</p>
<p>4-7-3-6</p>
<p>(four, seven, three, six)</p>
<p>Cash 4 Midday</p>
<p>4-3-4-9</p>
<p>(four, three, four, nine)</p>
<p>Cash 4 Night</p>
<p>2-7-6-9</p>
<p>(two, seven, six, nine)</p>
<p>Fantasy 5</p>
<p>02-19-20-38-40</p>
<p>(two, nineteen, twenty, thirty-eight, forty)</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $498,000</p>
<p>Georgia FIVE Evening</p>
<p>7-5-4-9-3</p>
<p>(seven, five, four, nine, three)</p>
<p>Georgia FIVE Midday</p>
<p>3-3-6-1-6</p>
<p>(three, three, six, one, six)</p>
<p>Mega Millions</p>
<p>03-11-23-29-59, Mega Ball: 18, Megaplier: 3</p>
<p>(three, eleven, twenty-three, twenty-nine, fifty-nine; Mega Ball: eighteen; Megaplier: three)</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $50 million</p>
<p>Powerball</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $62 million</p>
<p>ATLANTA (AP) _ These Georgia lotteries were drawn Tuesday:</p>
<p>5 Card Cash</p>
<p>JD-KH-3H-10H-2S</p>
<p>(JD, KH, 3H, 10H, 2S)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Day</p>
<p>01-04-05-06-08-09-13-15-16-18-22-23</p>
<p>(one, four, five, six, eight, nine, thirteen, fifteen, sixteen, eighteen, twenty-two, twenty-three)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Evening</p>
<p>01-04-06-07-08-09-10-11-13-14-15-22</p>
<p>(one, four, six, seven, eight, nine, ten, eleven, thirteen, fourteen, fifteen, twenty-two)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Morning</p>
<p>01-02-03-09-14-15-16-17-18-19-20-24</p>
<p>(one, two, three, nine, fourteen, fifteen, sixteen, seventeen, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-four)</p>
<p>All or Nothing Night</p>
<p>02-03-05-06-09-10-12-18-19-20-22-24</p>
<p>(two, three, five, six, nine, ten, twelve, eighteen, nineteen, twenty, twenty-two, twenty-four)</p>
<p>Cash 3 Evening</p>
<p>8-0-5</p>
<p>(eight, zero, five)</p>
<p>Cash 3 Midday</p>
<p>6-7-7</p>
<p>(six, seven, seven)</p>
<p>Cash 3 Night</p>
<p>4-1-2</p>
<p>(four, one, two)</p>
<p>Cash 4 Evening</p>
<p>4-7-3-6</p>
<p>(four, seven, three, six)</p>
<p>Cash 4 Midday</p>
<p>4-3-4-9</p>
<p>(four, three, four, nine)</p>
<p>Cash 4 Night</p>
<p>2-7-6-9</p>
<p>(two, seven, six, nine)</p>
<p>Fantasy 5</p>
<p>02-19-20-38-40</p>
<p>(two, nineteen, twenty, thirty-eight, forty)</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $498,000</p>
<p>Georgia FIVE Evening</p>
<p>7-5-4-9-3</p>
<p>(seven, five, four, nine, three)</p>
<p>Georgia FIVE Midday</p>
<p>3-3-6-1-6</p>
<p>(three, three, six, one, six)</p>
<p>Mega Millions</p>
<p>03-11-23-29-59, Mega Ball: 18, Megaplier: 3</p>
<p>(three, eleven, twenty-three, twenty-nine, fifty-nine; Mega Ball: eighteen; Megaplier: three)</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $50 million</p>
<p>Powerball</p>
<p>Estimated jackpot: $62 million</p> | 599,174 |
<p />
<p>Image source: Getty Images.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>Shares of grocer Supervalu Inc. (NYSE: SVU) fell 14% in October, according to data provided by <a href="https://www.capitaliq.com/home.aspx" type="external">S&amp;P Global Market Intelligence Opens a New Window.</a>, after the company announced an asset sale and fiscal second quarter earnings.</p>
<p>Supervalu announced the sale of Save-A-Lot for $1.365 billion in cash to Onex Corporation. The money will be used to repay at least $750 million in debt on a term loan.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>Quarterly results didn't leave much for investors to be excited about either. Sales from continuing operations fell 4.8% to $3.87 billion, and net income was just $31 million, or $0.11 per share.</p>
<p>Everything from wholesale to retail sales was down in the quarter as Supervalu's business continues to deteriorate. And that deterioration puts a lot of focus on the $2.2 billion in debt on the balance sheet at the end of last quarter, leaving a lot of risk even after a debt reduction from the Save-A-Lot sale. I just don't see any reason to be bullish on the stock today considering the debt and a decline in operations as a whole.</p>
<p>A secret billion-dollar stock opportunity The world's biggest tech company forgot to show you something, but a few Wall Street analysts and the Fool didn't miss a beat: There's a small company that's powering their brand-new gadgets and the coming revolution in technology. And we think its stock price has nearly unlimited room to run for early in-the-know investors! To be one of them, <a href="http://www.fool.com/mms/mark/ecap-foolcom-apple-wearable?aid=6965&amp;source=irbeditxt0000017&amp;ftm_cam=rb-wearable-d&amp;ftm_pit=2667&amp;ftm_veh=article_pitch&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">just click here Opens a New Window.</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://my.fool.com/profile/TMFFlushDraw/info.aspx" type="external">Travis Hoium Opens a New Window.</a> has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services <a href="http://www.fool.com/shop/newsletters/index.aspx?source=isiedilnk018048&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">free for 30 days Opens a New Window.</a>. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that <a href="http://www.fool.com/knowledge-center/motley.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">considering a diverse range of insights Opens a New Window.</a> makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/Legal/fool-disclosure-policy.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p> | Why Shares of Supervalu Inc Fell 14% in October | true | http://foxbusiness.com/markets/2016/11/07/why-shares-supervalu-inc-fell-14-in-october.html | 2016-11-07 | 0right
| Why Shares of Supervalu Inc Fell 14% in October
<p />
<p>Image source: Getty Images.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>Shares of grocer Supervalu Inc. (NYSE: SVU) fell 14% in October, according to data provided by <a href="https://www.capitaliq.com/home.aspx" type="external">S&amp;P Global Market Intelligence Opens a New Window.</a>, after the company announced an asset sale and fiscal second quarter earnings.</p>
<p>Supervalu announced the sale of Save-A-Lot for $1.365 billion in cash to Onex Corporation. The money will be used to repay at least $750 million in debt on a term loan.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>Quarterly results didn't leave much for investors to be excited about either. Sales from continuing operations fell 4.8% to $3.87 billion, and net income was just $31 million, or $0.11 per share.</p>
<p>Everything from wholesale to retail sales was down in the quarter as Supervalu's business continues to deteriorate. And that deterioration puts a lot of focus on the $2.2 billion in debt on the balance sheet at the end of last quarter, leaving a lot of risk even after a debt reduction from the Save-A-Lot sale. I just don't see any reason to be bullish on the stock today considering the debt and a decline in operations as a whole.</p>
<p>A secret billion-dollar stock opportunity The world's biggest tech company forgot to show you something, but a few Wall Street analysts and the Fool didn't miss a beat: There's a small company that's powering their brand-new gadgets and the coming revolution in technology. And we think its stock price has nearly unlimited room to run for early in-the-know investors! To be one of them, <a href="http://www.fool.com/mms/mark/ecap-foolcom-apple-wearable?aid=6965&amp;source=irbeditxt0000017&amp;ftm_cam=rb-wearable-d&amp;ftm_pit=2667&amp;ftm_veh=article_pitch&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">just click here Opens a New Window.</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://my.fool.com/profile/TMFFlushDraw/info.aspx" type="external">Travis Hoium Opens a New Window.</a> has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services <a href="http://www.fool.com/shop/newsletters/index.aspx?source=isiedilnk018048&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">free for 30 days Opens a New Window.</a>. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that <a href="http://www.fool.com/knowledge-center/motley.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">considering a diverse range of insights Opens a New Window.</a> makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/Legal/fool-disclosure-policy.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p> | 599,175 |
<p>Target says it's reached a settlement with Visa related to its massive 2013 data breach that resulted in the theft of millions of debit and credit card numbers.</p>
<p>Target Corp. wouldn't say how much it will settle the claims for. But it said Tuesday that the cost of the settlement was reflected in previously reported financial results.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>In May, a $19 million settlement between Target and MasterCard Inc. fell through, because it failed to get enough support from the affected banks and credit unions.</p>
<p>The breach, disclosed during the height of the holiday shopping season, compromised 40 million credit and debit card accounts.</p>
<p>The news rattled shoppers who avoided the Minneapolis-based retailer, fearing for the security of their private data, hurting profits and sales for months.</p> | Target reaches settlement with Visa related to massive 2013 data breach | true | http://foxbusiness.com/markets/2015/08/18/target-reaches-settlement-with-visa-related-to-massive-2013-data-breach.html | 2016-03-05 | 0right
| Target reaches settlement with Visa related to massive 2013 data breach
<p>Target says it's reached a settlement with Visa related to its massive 2013 data breach that resulted in the theft of millions of debit and credit card numbers.</p>
<p>Target Corp. wouldn't say how much it will settle the claims for. But it said Tuesday that the cost of the settlement was reflected in previously reported financial results.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>In May, a $19 million settlement between Target and MasterCard Inc. fell through, because it failed to get enough support from the affected banks and credit unions.</p>
<p>The breach, disclosed during the height of the holiday shopping season, compromised 40 million credit and debit card accounts.</p>
<p>The news rattled shoppers who avoided the Minneapolis-based retailer, fearing for the security of their private data, hurting profits and sales for months.</p> | 599,176 |
<p>Caroline Kennedy she ain’t. On Friday, New York Gov. David Paterson tapped Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand to take over the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.</p>
<p>So who exactly is this Gillibrand character? As it happens, Ms. Kennedy isn’t the only one with big political <a href="http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/washington/2009/01/kirsten-gillibr.html" type="external">connections</a> to her name. Regarding issues, Gillibrand just changed her tune when it comes to her stance on <a href="http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid71562.asp" type="external">gay marriage</a> — a shift that might dampen some of the <a href="http://www.usnews.com/articles/news/politics/2009/01/23/hillary-clintons-senate-replacement-draws-fire-from-liberals.html" type="external">criticism</a> coming from within the Democratic Party.</p>
<p>Bloomberg:</p>
<p>Paterson chose Gillibrand, 42, a Hudson Democrat whose sprawling mostly Republican district is near Albany, bypassing better-known Attorney General Andrew Cuomo. The twice-elected congresswoman voted against the assault weapons ban and the $700 billion financial bailout bill — positions at odds with Paterson’s.</p>
<p />
<p>Gillibrand was an upset winner in the 2006 congressional elections when she defeated four-term incumbent Republican U.S. Representative John Sweeney, 54. Her appointment takes effect Jan. 25, Paterson said.</p>
<p>“I believe I have found the best candidate to become the next senator from the state of New York,” Paterson said. “She is dynamic, she is articulate, she is perceptive, she is outspoken.”</p>
<p>Gillibrand said she will support women’s rights and same-sex marriages as well as programs that create jobs and bolster manufacturing, technology and health care.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&amp;sid=aUKKjXlREq_8&amp;refer=home" type="external">Read more</a></p> | Meet N.Y.’s New Senator | true | https://truthdig.com/articles/meet-n-y-s-new-senator/ | 2009-01-24 | 4left
| Meet N.Y.’s New Senator
<p>Caroline Kennedy she ain’t. On Friday, New York Gov. David Paterson tapped Rep. Kirsten Gillibrand to take over the U.S. Senate seat left vacant by Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.</p>
<p>So who exactly is this Gillibrand character? As it happens, Ms. Kennedy isn’t the only one with big political <a href="http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/washington/2009/01/kirsten-gillibr.html" type="external">connections</a> to her name. Regarding issues, Gillibrand just changed her tune when it comes to her stance on <a href="http://www.advocate.com/news_detail_ektid71562.asp" type="external">gay marriage</a> — a shift that might dampen some of the <a href="http://www.usnews.com/articles/news/politics/2009/01/23/hillary-clintons-senate-replacement-draws-fire-from-liberals.html" type="external">criticism</a> coming from within the Democratic Party.</p>
<p>Bloomberg:</p>
<p>Paterson chose Gillibrand, 42, a Hudson Democrat whose sprawling mostly Republican district is near Albany, bypassing better-known Attorney General Andrew Cuomo. The twice-elected congresswoman voted against the assault weapons ban and the $700 billion financial bailout bill — positions at odds with Paterson’s.</p>
<p />
<p>Gillibrand was an upset winner in the 2006 congressional elections when she defeated four-term incumbent Republican U.S. Representative John Sweeney, 54. Her appointment takes effect Jan. 25, Paterson said.</p>
<p>“I believe I have found the best candidate to become the next senator from the state of New York,” Paterson said. “She is dynamic, she is articulate, she is perceptive, she is outspoken.”</p>
<p>Gillibrand said she will support women’s rights and same-sex marriages as well as programs that create jobs and bolster manufacturing, technology and health care.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601087&amp;sid=aUKKjXlREq_8&amp;refer=home" type="external">Read more</a></p> | 599,177 |
<p />
<p />
<p>That awkward moment when a worthless piece of garbage is compared to a Picasso…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/tv/news/antiques-roadshow-expert-mistakenly-values-jug-at-35k-turns-out-it-was-a-school-art-project-a7025341.html" type="external">Via Independent.</a></p>
<p>Alvin Barr, an antiques broker from South Carolina, presented a glazed ‘grotesque face’ jug for appraisal in a recent episode of the show’s US version after finding it “covered with dirt, straw and chicken droppings” at a Eugene, Oregon estate sale.</p>
<p>“It speaks to me. It was saying: ‘I’m very unusual’, ‘I’m very different’,” he said, adding that he paid $300 dollars for it.</p>
<p>Much to Barr’s surprise, appraiser Stephen L Fletcher became excited by the item and began likening it to the masterpieces of Pablo Picasso. He dated the jug to the late 19th century and priced it at between $30,000 and $50,000.</p>
<p>Since the episode aired on 11 January, Fletcher’s estimation has been found to be wildly out. A viewer contacted Antiques Roadshow after recognising the pottery as the work of her friend, a horse trainer named Betsy Soule. Soule confirmed to local Eugene paper the Bend Bulletin that she had indeed sculpted the jug in a 1973 ceramics class….</p>
<p>Soule has said that she is now reconsidering a career in pottery after receiving widespread praise for her bizarre artwork.</p>
<p />
<p />
<p />
<p />
<p />
<p />
<p /> | true | http://tammybruce.com/2016/05/antiques-roadshow-expert-mistakenly-values-school-art-project-for-50k.html | 0right
|
<p />
<p />
<p>That awkward moment when a worthless piece of garbage is compared to a Picasso…</p>
<p><a href="http://www.independent.co.uk/arts-entertainment/tv/news/antiques-roadshow-expert-mistakenly-values-jug-at-35k-turns-out-it-was-a-school-art-project-a7025341.html" type="external">Via Independent.</a></p>
<p>Alvin Barr, an antiques broker from South Carolina, presented a glazed ‘grotesque face’ jug for appraisal in a recent episode of the show’s US version after finding it “covered with dirt, straw and chicken droppings” at a Eugene, Oregon estate sale.</p>
<p>“It speaks to me. It was saying: ‘I’m very unusual’, ‘I’m very different’,” he said, adding that he paid $300 dollars for it.</p>
<p>Much to Barr’s surprise, appraiser Stephen L Fletcher became excited by the item and began likening it to the masterpieces of Pablo Picasso. He dated the jug to the late 19th century and priced it at between $30,000 and $50,000.</p>
<p>Since the episode aired on 11 January, Fletcher’s estimation has been found to be wildly out. A viewer contacted Antiques Roadshow after recognising the pottery as the work of her friend, a horse trainer named Betsy Soule. Soule confirmed to local Eugene paper the Bend Bulletin that she had indeed sculpted the jug in a 1973 ceramics class….</p>
<p>Soule has said that she is now reconsidering a career in pottery after receiving widespread praise for her bizarre artwork.</p>
<p />
<p />
<p />
<p />
<p />
<p />
<p /> | 599,178 |
||
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p>ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The weather is just starting to cool, the school year is approaching and fall is around the corner. For New Mexicans, that means one thing: green chile.</p>
<p>Retailers around the city have pulled their roasters out of storage, set up tents and have begun roasting up New Mexico’s favorite crop.</p>
<p>Folks are already lining up — and from at least as far away as Georgia.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Randall Mahon of Woodstock, Ga., was busy Wednesday afternoon stuffing a suitcase full of the fresh crop at Chile Traditions in Albuquerque. He said he planned to fly home with 120 pounds to sell at his local farmers market.</p>
<p>“They go crazy,” Mahon said of his customers.</p>
<p>Many roasters began last week, which is good news for Elaine Mitchell, co-owner of The Hatch Chile Store which grows and exports green chile. Though the chile season normally starts in mid-August, Mitchell said the company began shipping two weeks ago. However, its most popular pepper, the medium/hot Big Jim, won’t be ready for another week or two.</p>
<p>“This time of year is always very exciting,” said Mitchell, who ships to roasters all over the state and “ex-New Mexicans” who have moved.</p>
<p>New Mexico State extension vegetable specialist Stephanie Walker said despite recent heavy rain in Hatch and Las Cruces, growers say the “chile is hanging in there.”</p>
<p>Heavy rain can devastate fields by helping to spread chile wilt, but there’s no indication the fungal disease has affected crops this year any more than in the past.</p>
<p>The disease, first discovered in the 1920s in New Mexico, affects a few fields every year, but “growers have become very savvy and are able to pump the water out quickly to save their crop,” Walker said.</p>
<p>Roasters don’t seem concerned, and many of them are already operating a full capacity.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>The Farmers Market on Eubank, The Fruit Basket on Fourth Street and Chile Traditions at Montgomery and Wyoming, among others, have all started roasting.</p>
<p>David Salazar, the son of Chile Traditions’ owner Ken Dewees and the manager heading up the roasting, said the business began roasting last week.</p>
<p>The cost of a 40-pound sack is $37.95 — a dollar more than last year because of an increase by the supplier. The chile specialty store gets its green chile from Hatch, where a local farmer is its sole supplier.</p>
<p>Salazar said this year comes with a big treat: Miss June peppers. The “meaty and spicy” pepper is similar to the Big Jim variety, but it packs the heat of Sandia peppers.</p>
<p>“Most people who like the heat have to get smaller peppers,” Salazar said. “Those are harder to peel. Miss June is large and easy to peel.”</p>
<p>Pat Romero, owner of The Fruit Basket, said he has been moving through 100 bags a day, at 40 pounds a piece.</p>
<p>“It’s been good. Every year is a hell of a year,” said Romero. “It’s really taking off now.”</p>
<p>Journal photographer Marla Brose contributed to this report.</p>
<p>&#160;</p> | ‘Tis the season: The green has arrived | false | https://abqjournal.com/1042306/its-chile-season.html | 2least
| ‘Tis the season: The green has arrived
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p>ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The weather is just starting to cool, the school year is approaching and fall is around the corner. For New Mexicans, that means one thing: green chile.</p>
<p>Retailers around the city have pulled their roasters out of storage, set up tents and have begun roasting up New Mexico’s favorite crop.</p>
<p>Folks are already lining up — and from at least as far away as Georgia.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Randall Mahon of Woodstock, Ga., was busy Wednesday afternoon stuffing a suitcase full of the fresh crop at Chile Traditions in Albuquerque. He said he planned to fly home with 120 pounds to sell at his local farmers market.</p>
<p>“They go crazy,” Mahon said of his customers.</p>
<p>Many roasters began last week, which is good news for Elaine Mitchell, co-owner of The Hatch Chile Store which grows and exports green chile. Though the chile season normally starts in mid-August, Mitchell said the company began shipping two weeks ago. However, its most popular pepper, the medium/hot Big Jim, won’t be ready for another week or two.</p>
<p>“This time of year is always very exciting,” said Mitchell, who ships to roasters all over the state and “ex-New Mexicans” who have moved.</p>
<p>New Mexico State extension vegetable specialist Stephanie Walker said despite recent heavy rain in Hatch and Las Cruces, growers say the “chile is hanging in there.”</p>
<p>Heavy rain can devastate fields by helping to spread chile wilt, but there’s no indication the fungal disease has affected crops this year any more than in the past.</p>
<p>The disease, first discovered in the 1920s in New Mexico, affects a few fields every year, but “growers have become very savvy and are able to pump the water out quickly to save their crop,” Walker said.</p>
<p>Roasters don’t seem concerned, and many of them are already operating a full capacity.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>The Farmers Market on Eubank, The Fruit Basket on Fourth Street and Chile Traditions at Montgomery and Wyoming, among others, have all started roasting.</p>
<p>David Salazar, the son of Chile Traditions’ owner Ken Dewees and the manager heading up the roasting, said the business began roasting last week.</p>
<p>The cost of a 40-pound sack is $37.95 — a dollar more than last year because of an increase by the supplier. The chile specialty store gets its green chile from Hatch, where a local farmer is its sole supplier.</p>
<p>Salazar said this year comes with a big treat: Miss June peppers. The “meaty and spicy” pepper is similar to the Big Jim variety, but it packs the heat of Sandia peppers.</p>
<p>“Most people who like the heat have to get smaller peppers,” Salazar said. “Those are harder to peel. Miss June is large and easy to peel.”</p>
<p>Pat Romero, owner of The Fruit Basket, said he has been moving through 100 bags a day, at 40 pounds a piece.</p>
<p>“It’s been good. Every year is a hell of a year,” said Romero. “It’s really taking off now.”</p>
<p>Journal photographer Marla Brose contributed to this report.</p>
<p>&#160;</p> | 599,179 |
|
<p>The first ever No Labels Team Michigan Meeting was held in Grand Rapids March 31st, at one of our member’s restaurant. After weeks and months of digital communication, it was great to meet the people who have dedicated themselves to this movement. Our backgrounds are different, we share varying political views, however, none the same, we all want to help America see clearly again and move the nation forward.</p>
<p>Over three to four hours of discussion, we got to know each other, share our No Label experiences, why we joined, determined goals and brainstormed for ideas and actions to execute those goals.</p>
<p>The following were our decided results:</p>
<p>GOALS</p>
<p>a. Cover the ENTIRE state with No Labels Information</p>
<p>b. Increase MI Citizen Leadership &amp; Support of the Make Congress Work! Plan</p>
<p>c. Garner co-sponsorship of ALL Michigan U.S. Senators and Representatives for No Budget, No Pay</p>
<p>Thirteen ideas to accomplish our goals were determined and assigned.&#160; The actions we will be taking in Michigan includes such things as promoting the No Labels Anthem to radio stations, meeting face to face with various Senatorial and Representative state offices, expanding use of the No Labels Ambassador Call Program and speaking with various political action groups such as the League of Women Voters, etc. about the No Labels movement.</p>
<p>It was an energized meeting and all we can say is Go No Labels, let’s make some history!</p> | Michigan No Labels Chapter Meets | false | https://nolabels.org/blog/michigan-no-labels-chapter-meets/ | 2012-04-04 | 2least
| Michigan No Labels Chapter Meets
<p>The first ever No Labels Team Michigan Meeting was held in Grand Rapids March 31st, at one of our member’s restaurant. After weeks and months of digital communication, it was great to meet the people who have dedicated themselves to this movement. Our backgrounds are different, we share varying political views, however, none the same, we all want to help America see clearly again and move the nation forward.</p>
<p>Over three to four hours of discussion, we got to know each other, share our No Label experiences, why we joined, determined goals and brainstormed for ideas and actions to execute those goals.</p>
<p>The following were our decided results:</p>
<p>GOALS</p>
<p>a. Cover the ENTIRE state with No Labels Information</p>
<p>b. Increase MI Citizen Leadership &amp; Support of the Make Congress Work! Plan</p>
<p>c. Garner co-sponsorship of ALL Michigan U.S. Senators and Representatives for No Budget, No Pay</p>
<p>Thirteen ideas to accomplish our goals were determined and assigned.&#160; The actions we will be taking in Michigan includes such things as promoting the No Labels Anthem to radio stations, meeting face to face with various Senatorial and Representative state offices, expanding use of the No Labels Ambassador Call Program and speaking with various political action groups such as the League of Women Voters, etc. about the No Labels movement.</p>
<p>It was an energized meeting and all we can say is Go No Labels, let’s make some history!</p> | 599,180 |
<p>Barack Obama, the nation’s 44th president, was ceremonially sworn in for his second term Monday. Here is the entire text of the inaugural address that the president delivered at the Capitol.</p>
<p>Vice President Biden, Mr. Chief Justice, Members of the United States Congress, distinguished guests, and fellow citizens:</p>
<p>Each time we gather to inaugurate a president, we bear witness to the enduring strength of our Constitution.</p>
<p>We affirm the promise of our democracy. We recall that what binds this nation together is not the colors of our skin or the tenets of our faith or the origins of our names. What makes us exceptional – what makes us American – is our allegiance to an idea, articulated in a declaration made more than two centuries ago:</p>
<p />
<p>“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.”</p>
<p>Today we continue a never-ending journey, to bridge the meaning of those words with the realities of our time. For history tells us that while these truths may be self-evident, they have never been self-executing; that while freedom is a gift from God, it must be secured by His people here on Earth. The patriots of 1776 did not fight to replace the tyranny of a king with the privileges of a few or the rule of a mob. They gave to us a Republic, a government of, and by, and for the people, entrusting each generation to keep safe our founding creed.</p>
<p>For more than two hundred years, we have.</p>
<p>Through blood drawn by lash and blood drawn by sword, we learned that no union founded on the principles of liberty and equality could survive half-slave and half-free. We made ourselves anew, and vowed to move forward together.</p>
<p>Together, we determined that a modern economy requires railroads and highways to speed travel and commerce; schools and colleges to train our workers.</p>
<p>Together, we discovered that a free market only thrives when there are rules to ensure competition and fair play.</p>
<p>Together, we resolved that a great nation must care for the vulnerable, and protect its people from life’s worst hazards and misfortune.</p>
<p>Through it all, we have never relinquished our skepticism of central authority, nor have we succumbed to the fiction that all society’s ills can be cured through government alone. Our celebration of initiative and enterprise; our insistence on hard work and personal responsibility, are constants in our character.</p>
<p>But we have always understood that when times change, so must we; that fidelity to our founding principles requires new responses to new challenges; that preserving our individual freedoms ultimately requires collective action. For the American people can no more meet the demands of today’s world by acting alone than American soldiers could have met the forces of fascism or communism with muskets and militias. No single person can train all the math and science teachers we’ll need to equip our children for the future, or build the roads and networks and research labs that will bring new jobs and businesses to our shores. Now, more than ever, we must do these things together, as one nation, and one people.</p>
<p>This generation of Americans has been tested by crises that steeled our resolve and proved our resilience. A decade of war is now ending. An economic recovery has begun. America’s possibilities are limitless, for we possess all the qualities that this world without boundaries demands: youth and drive; diversity and openness; an endless capacity for risk and a gift for reinvention. My fellow Americans, we are made for this moment, and we will seize it – so long as we seize it together.</p>
<p>For we, the people, understand that our country cannot succeed when a shrinking few do very well and a growing many barely make it. We believe that America’s prosperity must rest upon the broad shoulders of a rising middle class. We know that America thrives when every person can find independence and pride in their work; when the wages of honest labor liberate families from the brink of hardship. We are true to our creed when a little girl born into the bleakest poverty knows that she has the same chance to succeed as anybody else, because she is an American, she is free, and she is equal, not just in the eyes of God but also in our own.</p>
<p>We understand that outworn programs are inadequate to the needs of our time. We must harness new ideas and technology to remake our government, revamp our tax code, reform our schools, and empower our citizens with the skills they need to work harder, learn more, and reach higher. But while the means will change, our purpose endures: a nation that rewards the effort and determination of every single American.</p>
<p>That is what this moment requires. That is what will give real meaning to our creed.</p>
<p>We, the people, still believe that every citizen deserves a basic measure of security and dignity. We must make the hard choices to reduce the cost of health care and the size of our deficit. But we reject the belief that America must choose between caring for the generation that built this country and investing in the generation that will build its future. For we remember the lessons of our past, when twilight years were spent in poverty, and parents of a child with a disability had nowhere to turn. We do not believe that in this country, freedom is reserved for the lucky, or happiness for the few. We recognize that no matter how responsibly we live our lives, any one of us, at any time, may face a job loss, or a sudden illness, or a home swept away in a terrible storm. The commitments we make to each other – through Medicare, and Medicaid, and Social Security – these things do not sap our initiative; they strengthen us. They do not make us a nation of takers; they free us to take the risks that make this country great.</p>
<p>We, the people, still believe that our obligations as Americans are not just to ourselves, but to all posterity. We will respond to the threat of climate change, knowing that the failure to do so would betray our children and future generations. Some may still deny the overwhelming judgment of science, but none can avoid the devastating impact of raging fires, and crippling drought, and more powerful storms. The path towards sustainable energy sources will be long and sometimes difficult. But America cannot resist this transition; we must lead it. We cannot cede to other nations the technology that will power new jobs and new industries – we must claim its promise. That is how we will maintain our economic vitality and our national treasure – our forests and waterways; our croplands and snowcapped peaks. That is how we will preserve our planet, commanded to our care by God. That’s what will lend meaning to the creed our fathers once declared.</p>
<p>We, the people, still believe that enduring security and lasting peace do not require perpetual war. Our brave men and women in uniform, tempered by the flames of battle, are unmatched in skill and courage. Our citizens, seared by the memory of those we have lost, know too well the price that is paid for liberty. The knowledge of their sacrifice will keep us forever vigilant against those who would do us harm. But we are also heirs to those who won the peace and not just the war, who turned sworn enemies into the surest of friends, and we must carry those lessons into this time as well.</p>
<p>We will defend our people and uphold our values through strength of arms and rule of law. We will show the courage to try and resolve our differences with other nations peacefully – not because we are naïve about the dangers we face, but because engagement can more durably lift suspicion and fear. America will remain the anchor of strong alliances in every corner of the globe; and we will renew those institutions that extend our capacity to manage crisis abroad, for no one has a greater stake in a peaceful world than its most powerful nation. We will support democracy from Asia to Africa; from the Americas to the Middle East, because our interests and our conscience compel us to act on behalf of those who long for freedom. And we must be a source of hope to the poor, the sick, the marginalized, the victims of prejudice – not out of mere charity, but because peace in our time requires the constant advance of those principles that our common creed describes: tolerance and opportunity; human dignity and justice.</p>
<p>We, the people, declare today that the most evident of truths – that all of us are created equal – is the star that guides us still; just as it guided our forebears through Seneca Falls, and Selma, and Stonewall; just as it guided all those men and women, sung and unsung, who left footprints along this great Mall, to hear a preacher say that we cannot walk alone; to hear a King proclaim that our individual freedom is inextricably bound to the freedom of every soul on Earth.</p>
<p>It is now our generation’s task to carry on what those pioneers began. For our journey is not complete until our wives, our mothers, and daughters can earn a living equal to their efforts. Our journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law – for if we are truly created equal, then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well. Our journey is not complete until no citizen is forced to wait for hours to exercise the right to vote. Our journey is not complete until we find a better way to welcome the striving, hopeful immigrants who still see America as a land of opportunity; until bright young students and engineers are enlisted in our workforce rather than expelled from our country. Our journey is not complete until all our children, from the streets of Detroit to the hills of Appalachia to the quiet lanes of Newtown, know that they are cared for, and cherished, and always safe from harm.</p>
<p>That is our generation’s task – to make these words, these rights, these values – of Life, and Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness – real for every American. Being true to our founding documents does not require us to agree on every contour of life; it does not mean we will all define liberty in exactly the same way, or follow the same precise path to happiness. Progress does not compel us to settle centuries-long debates about the role of government for all time – but it does require us to act in our time.</p>
<p>For now decisions are upon us, and we cannot afford delay. We cannot mistake absolutism for principle, or substitute spectacle for politics, or treat name-calling as reasoned debate. We must act, knowing that our work will be imperfect. We must act, knowing that today’s victories will be only partial, and that it will be up to those who stand here in four years, and forty years, and four hundred years hence to advance the timeless spirit once conferred to us in a spare Philadelphia hall.</p>
<p>My fellow Americans, the oath I have sworn before you today, like the one recited by others who serve in this Capitol, was an oath to God and country, not party or faction – and we must faithfully execute that pledge during the duration of our service. But the words I spoke today are not so different from the oath that is taken each time a soldier signs up for duty, or an immigrant realizes her dream. My oath is not so different from the pledge we all make to the flag that waves above and that fills our hearts with pride.</p>
<p>They are the words of citizens, and they represent our greatest hope.</p>
<p>You and I, as citizens, have the power to set this country’s course.</p>
<p>You and I, as citizens, have the obligation to shape the debates of our time – not only with the votes we cast, but with the voices we lift in defense of our most ancient values and enduring ideals.</p>
<p>Let each of us now embrace, with solemn duty and awesome joy, what is our lasting birthright. With common effort and common purpose, with passion and dedication, let us answer the call of history, and carry into an uncertain future that precious light of freedom.</p>
<p>Thank you, God Bless you, and may He forever bless these United States of America.</p>
<p /> | President Obama's Inauguration 2013 Speech: Full Text | true | https://truthdig.com/articles/president-obamas-inauguration-2013-speech-full-text/ | 2013-01-22 | 4left
| President Obama's Inauguration 2013 Speech: Full Text
<p>Barack Obama, the nation’s 44th president, was ceremonially sworn in for his second term Monday. Here is the entire text of the inaugural address that the president delivered at the Capitol.</p>
<p>Vice President Biden, Mr. Chief Justice, Members of the United States Congress, distinguished guests, and fellow citizens:</p>
<p>Each time we gather to inaugurate a president, we bear witness to the enduring strength of our Constitution.</p>
<p>We affirm the promise of our democracy. We recall that what binds this nation together is not the colors of our skin or the tenets of our faith or the origins of our names. What makes us exceptional – what makes us American – is our allegiance to an idea, articulated in a declaration made more than two centuries ago:</p>
<p />
<p>“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness.”</p>
<p>Today we continue a never-ending journey, to bridge the meaning of those words with the realities of our time. For history tells us that while these truths may be self-evident, they have never been self-executing; that while freedom is a gift from God, it must be secured by His people here on Earth. The patriots of 1776 did not fight to replace the tyranny of a king with the privileges of a few or the rule of a mob. They gave to us a Republic, a government of, and by, and for the people, entrusting each generation to keep safe our founding creed.</p>
<p>For more than two hundred years, we have.</p>
<p>Through blood drawn by lash and blood drawn by sword, we learned that no union founded on the principles of liberty and equality could survive half-slave and half-free. We made ourselves anew, and vowed to move forward together.</p>
<p>Together, we determined that a modern economy requires railroads and highways to speed travel and commerce; schools and colleges to train our workers.</p>
<p>Together, we discovered that a free market only thrives when there are rules to ensure competition and fair play.</p>
<p>Together, we resolved that a great nation must care for the vulnerable, and protect its people from life’s worst hazards and misfortune.</p>
<p>Through it all, we have never relinquished our skepticism of central authority, nor have we succumbed to the fiction that all society’s ills can be cured through government alone. Our celebration of initiative and enterprise; our insistence on hard work and personal responsibility, are constants in our character.</p>
<p>But we have always understood that when times change, so must we; that fidelity to our founding principles requires new responses to new challenges; that preserving our individual freedoms ultimately requires collective action. For the American people can no more meet the demands of today’s world by acting alone than American soldiers could have met the forces of fascism or communism with muskets and militias. No single person can train all the math and science teachers we’ll need to equip our children for the future, or build the roads and networks and research labs that will bring new jobs and businesses to our shores. Now, more than ever, we must do these things together, as one nation, and one people.</p>
<p>This generation of Americans has been tested by crises that steeled our resolve and proved our resilience. A decade of war is now ending. An economic recovery has begun. America’s possibilities are limitless, for we possess all the qualities that this world without boundaries demands: youth and drive; diversity and openness; an endless capacity for risk and a gift for reinvention. My fellow Americans, we are made for this moment, and we will seize it – so long as we seize it together.</p>
<p>For we, the people, understand that our country cannot succeed when a shrinking few do very well and a growing many barely make it. We believe that America’s prosperity must rest upon the broad shoulders of a rising middle class. We know that America thrives when every person can find independence and pride in their work; when the wages of honest labor liberate families from the brink of hardship. We are true to our creed when a little girl born into the bleakest poverty knows that she has the same chance to succeed as anybody else, because she is an American, she is free, and she is equal, not just in the eyes of God but also in our own.</p>
<p>We understand that outworn programs are inadequate to the needs of our time. We must harness new ideas and technology to remake our government, revamp our tax code, reform our schools, and empower our citizens with the skills they need to work harder, learn more, and reach higher. But while the means will change, our purpose endures: a nation that rewards the effort and determination of every single American.</p>
<p>That is what this moment requires. That is what will give real meaning to our creed.</p>
<p>We, the people, still believe that every citizen deserves a basic measure of security and dignity. We must make the hard choices to reduce the cost of health care and the size of our deficit. But we reject the belief that America must choose between caring for the generation that built this country and investing in the generation that will build its future. For we remember the lessons of our past, when twilight years were spent in poverty, and parents of a child with a disability had nowhere to turn. We do not believe that in this country, freedom is reserved for the lucky, or happiness for the few. We recognize that no matter how responsibly we live our lives, any one of us, at any time, may face a job loss, or a sudden illness, or a home swept away in a terrible storm. The commitments we make to each other – through Medicare, and Medicaid, and Social Security – these things do not sap our initiative; they strengthen us. They do not make us a nation of takers; they free us to take the risks that make this country great.</p>
<p>We, the people, still believe that our obligations as Americans are not just to ourselves, but to all posterity. We will respond to the threat of climate change, knowing that the failure to do so would betray our children and future generations. Some may still deny the overwhelming judgment of science, but none can avoid the devastating impact of raging fires, and crippling drought, and more powerful storms. The path towards sustainable energy sources will be long and sometimes difficult. But America cannot resist this transition; we must lead it. We cannot cede to other nations the technology that will power new jobs and new industries – we must claim its promise. That is how we will maintain our economic vitality and our national treasure – our forests and waterways; our croplands and snowcapped peaks. That is how we will preserve our planet, commanded to our care by God. That’s what will lend meaning to the creed our fathers once declared.</p>
<p>We, the people, still believe that enduring security and lasting peace do not require perpetual war. Our brave men and women in uniform, tempered by the flames of battle, are unmatched in skill and courage. Our citizens, seared by the memory of those we have lost, know too well the price that is paid for liberty. The knowledge of their sacrifice will keep us forever vigilant against those who would do us harm. But we are also heirs to those who won the peace and not just the war, who turned sworn enemies into the surest of friends, and we must carry those lessons into this time as well.</p>
<p>We will defend our people and uphold our values through strength of arms and rule of law. We will show the courage to try and resolve our differences with other nations peacefully – not because we are naïve about the dangers we face, but because engagement can more durably lift suspicion and fear. America will remain the anchor of strong alliances in every corner of the globe; and we will renew those institutions that extend our capacity to manage crisis abroad, for no one has a greater stake in a peaceful world than its most powerful nation. We will support democracy from Asia to Africa; from the Americas to the Middle East, because our interests and our conscience compel us to act on behalf of those who long for freedom. And we must be a source of hope to the poor, the sick, the marginalized, the victims of prejudice – not out of mere charity, but because peace in our time requires the constant advance of those principles that our common creed describes: tolerance and opportunity; human dignity and justice.</p>
<p>We, the people, declare today that the most evident of truths – that all of us are created equal – is the star that guides us still; just as it guided our forebears through Seneca Falls, and Selma, and Stonewall; just as it guided all those men and women, sung and unsung, who left footprints along this great Mall, to hear a preacher say that we cannot walk alone; to hear a King proclaim that our individual freedom is inextricably bound to the freedom of every soul on Earth.</p>
<p>It is now our generation’s task to carry on what those pioneers began. For our journey is not complete until our wives, our mothers, and daughters can earn a living equal to their efforts. Our journey is not complete until our gay brothers and sisters are treated like anyone else under the law – for if we are truly created equal, then surely the love we commit to one another must be equal as well. Our journey is not complete until no citizen is forced to wait for hours to exercise the right to vote. Our journey is not complete until we find a better way to welcome the striving, hopeful immigrants who still see America as a land of opportunity; until bright young students and engineers are enlisted in our workforce rather than expelled from our country. Our journey is not complete until all our children, from the streets of Detroit to the hills of Appalachia to the quiet lanes of Newtown, know that they are cared for, and cherished, and always safe from harm.</p>
<p>That is our generation’s task – to make these words, these rights, these values – of Life, and Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness – real for every American. Being true to our founding documents does not require us to agree on every contour of life; it does not mean we will all define liberty in exactly the same way, or follow the same precise path to happiness. Progress does not compel us to settle centuries-long debates about the role of government for all time – but it does require us to act in our time.</p>
<p>For now decisions are upon us, and we cannot afford delay. We cannot mistake absolutism for principle, or substitute spectacle for politics, or treat name-calling as reasoned debate. We must act, knowing that our work will be imperfect. We must act, knowing that today’s victories will be only partial, and that it will be up to those who stand here in four years, and forty years, and four hundred years hence to advance the timeless spirit once conferred to us in a spare Philadelphia hall.</p>
<p>My fellow Americans, the oath I have sworn before you today, like the one recited by others who serve in this Capitol, was an oath to God and country, not party or faction – and we must faithfully execute that pledge during the duration of our service. But the words I spoke today are not so different from the oath that is taken each time a soldier signs up for duty, or an immigrant realizes her dream. My oath is not so different from the pledge we all make to the flag that waves above and that fills our hearts with pride.</p>
<p>They are the words of citizens, and they represent our greatest hope.</p>
<p>You and I, as citizens, have the power to set this country’s course.</p>
<p>You and I, as citizens, have the obligation to shape the debates of our time – not only with the votes we cast, but with the voices we lift in defense of our most ancient values and enduring ideals.</p>
<p>Let each of us now embrace, with solemn duty and awesome joy, what is our lasting birthright. With common effort and common purpose, with passion and dedication, let us answer the call of history, and carry into an uncertain future that precious light of freedom.</p>
<p>Thank you, God Bless you, and may He forever bless these United States of America.</p>
<p /> | 599,181 |
<p />
<p />
<p>A massive fire that spans several blocks is ongoing in New York City near the Greenwich Village neighborhood.</p>
<p>FDNY responders are on the scene and chaos is now evoking emergency teams to clear the streets and evacuations of nearby buildings are beginning.</p>
<p>Fire Department officials have said the fire is a 5-alarm blaze atop an apartment building at 60 E. 9th Street.</p>
<p>No known injuries have been reported as of yet and city officials have told residents and civilians to remain indoors in a safe place until further notice.</p>
<p>Images are swirling over social media which show firefighters breaking the windows trying to reach survivors as they fight the inferno.</p>
<p>The above video is from the scene on Broadway. At this time the cause is unknown.</p>
<p />
<p>Source</p>
<p><a href="http://breaking911.com/developing-smoke-engulfs-stretch-broadway-new-york-city-fdny-battles-massive-blaze/" type="external">breaking911.com/developing-smoke-engulfs-stretch-broadway-new-york-city-fdny-battles-massive-blaze</a></p>
<p />
<p /> | Breaking News: Massive Fire Engulfs New York City | true | http://thegoldwater.com/news/4453-Breaking-News-Massive-Fire-Engulfs-New-York-City | 2017-06-28 | 0right
| Breaking News: Massive Fire Engulfs New York City
<p />
<p />
<p>A massive fire that spans several blocks is ongoing in New York City near the Greenwich Village neighborhood.</p>
<p>FDNY responders are on the scene and chaos is now evoking emergency teams to clear the streets and evacuations of nearby buildings are beginning.</p>
<p>Fire Department officials have said the fire is a 5-alarm blaze atop an apartment building at 60 E. 9th Street.</p>
<p>No known injuries have been reported as of yet and city officials have told residents and civilians to remain indoors in a safe place until further notice.</p>
<p>Images are swirling over social media which show firefighters breaking the windows trying to reach survivors as they fight the inferno.</p>
<p>The above video is from the scene on Broadway. At this time the cause is unknown.</p>
<p />
<p>Source</p>
<p><a href="http://breaking911.com/developing-smoke-engulfs-stretch-broadway-new-york-city-fdny-battles-massive-blaze/" type="external">breaking911.com/developing-smoke-engulfs-stretch-broadway-new-york-city-fdny-battles-massive-blaze</a></p>
<p />
<p /> | 599,182 |
<p>Though 2017 hasn't been a banner year for shareholders of Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) -- its stock is up 8% overall -- things have definitely improved for them lately. Intel shares rose 17% in the past three months, and by more than 11% over the past 30 days, pushing their price to highs not seen since 2000.</p>
<p>With the third-quarter earnings report scheduled for Oct. 16, shareholders wondering if Intel's rapid run-up will continue need two questions answered: What factors have been driving the recent bullishness, and are they sustainable?</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>There was no single catalyst responsible for Intel's stock performance; instead, it was a host of positives. The self-proclaimed "data center first" chipmaker has a way&#160;to go, but recent events suggest CEO Brian Krzanich's transition to a focus on cutting-edge markets is beginning to bear fruit.</p>
<p>One of the primary drivers of competitor NVIDIA's &#160;(NASDAQ: NVDA) jaw-dropping earnings -- last quarter, its revenue increased 56% year over year to $2.23 billion -- was a more than 150% jump in data center revenue. Though Intel's data center sales still dwarf NVIDIA's, the latter is making headway. But still, some payback was warranted.</p>
<p>It looks as though the payback will come in the form of Intel supplying the components for Tesla's comprehensive infotainment systems, pushing former supplier NVIDIA to the curb. <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2017/09/27/intel-corporation-reportedly-snatches-tesla-inc-bi.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Tesla isn't Opens a New Window.</a>&#160; <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2017/09/27/intel-corporation-reportedly-snatches-tesla-inc-bi.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">the largest auto manufacturer, Opens a New Window.</a> but it's still a major Internet of Things (IoT) feather in Intel's cap.</p>
<p>Virtual reality (VR) is another market expected to skyrocket, and <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2017/09/30/3-things-you-need-to-know-about-intel-corps-new-ga.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">not just for gaming Opens a New Window.</a>, though that application is expected to lead the charge. Intel hopes its recently unveiled wireless technology -- and the freedom to roam it offers users -- will be the catalyst that gets the ball rolling. According to one conservative estimate, VR will drive over $40 billion in sales in 2020.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>Expanding cellular network capacity and performance utilizing 5G is another opportunity with nearly limitless potential, and Intel is also delivering in this key market. Intel has partnered with a couple of European-based networking &#160;giants, and they recently unveiled what they have described as "the first public 5G live network use cases in Europe."</p>
<p>You might think that after Intel's recent stock price run, it's too late to jump on board. The good news is that nothing could be further from the truth. Intel is valued at a mere 12.9 times forward earnings estimates. For some perspective, its peer group average today is 24.2 times trailing earnings. Intel is also a screaming bargain by almost every other common metric used to measure value.</p>
<p>Intel's recent wins in what are expected to become huge markets have gotten much of the attention recently, and rightfully so. But let's not forget Intel's is also delivering with each successive quarterly earnings report.</p>
<p>Last quarter's $14.8 billion in total revenue was another record-breaking result, and its data center, IoT, memory solutions, and PC units all performed admirably. And in a result that may come as a surprise to some, PC-related sales rose 12% to $8.2 billion. There is growing sentiment among analysts that the PC market is stabilizing, and Intel's results continue to prove that point.</p>
<p>Data center revenue climbed 9% to $4.4 billion last quarter, IoT was up 26% to $720 million, and memory sales soared 58% to $874 million. Krzanich's cost-cutting efforts are also in full-swing; the company shaved its operating expenses last quarter to $5.27 billion, down 21% year over year.</p>
<p>Not only has Intel won over investors, it's earned the plaudits that are finally coming its way. It's scoring big wins where they count, its PC component revenue continues to climb quarter in, quarter out, and its data center sales are back on track. And most important for investors, it's not too late to jump on and enjoy Intel's ride.</p>
<p>10 stocks we like better than IntelWhen investing geniuses David and Tom Gardner have a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the newsletter they have run for over a decade, Motley Fool Stock Advisor, has tripled the market.*</p>
<p>David and Tom just revealed what they believe are the <a href="http://infotron.fool.com/infotrack/click?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fool.com%2Fmms%2Fmark%2Fe-foolcom-sa-bbn-static%3Faid%3D8867%26source%3Disaeditxt0010449%26ftm_cam%3Dsa-bbn-evergreen%26ftm_pit%3D6312%26ftm_veh%3Dbbn_article_pitch&amp;impression=11484947-eaff-4f34-a9de-a67e7a7bcb28&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">10 best stocks Opens a New Window.</a> for investors to buy right now... and Intel wasn't one of them! That's right -- they think these 10 stocks are even better buys.</p>
<p><a href="http://infotron.fool.com/infotrack/click?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fool.com%2Fmms%2Fmark%2Fe-foolcom-sa-bbn-static%3Faid%3D8867%26source%3Disaeditxt0010449%26ftm_cam%3Dsa-bbn-evergreen%26ftm_pit%3D6312%26ftm_veh%3Dbbn_article_pitch&amp;impression=11484947-eaff-4f34-a9de-a67e7a7bcb28&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Click here Opens a New Window.</a> to learn about these picks!</p>
<p>*Stock Advisor returns as of September 5, 2017</p>
<p><a href="http://my.fool.com/profile/timbrugger/info.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Tim Brugger Opens a New Window.</a> has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Nvidia and Tesla. The Motley Fool recommends Intel. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/Legal/fool-disclosure-policy.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p> | Is Intel Corp. Finally Winning Over Investors? | true | http://foxbusiness.com/markets/2017/10/05/is-intel-corp-finally-winning-over-investors.html | 2017-10-05 | 0right
| Is Intel Corp. Finally Winning Over Investors?
<p>Though 2017 hasn't been a banner year for shareholders of Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) -- its stock is up 8% overall -- things have definitely improved for them lately. Intel shares rose 17% in the past three months, and by more than 11% over the past 30 days, pushing their price to highs not seen since 2000.</p>
<p>With the third-quarter earnings report scheduled for Oct. 16, shareholders wondering if Intel's rapid run-up will continue need two questions answered: What factors have been driving the recent bullishness, and are they sustainable?</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>There was no single catalyst responsible for Intel's stock performance; instead, it was a host of positives. The self-proclaimed "data center first" chipmaker has a way&#160;to go, but recent events suggest CEO Brian Krzanich's transition to a focus on cutting-edge markets is beginning to bear fruit.</p>
<p>One of the primary drivers of competitor NVIDIA's &#160;(NASDAQ: NVDA) jaw-dropping earnings -- last quarter, its revenue increased 56% year over year to $2.23 billion -- was a more than 150% jump in data center revenue. Though Intel's data center sales still dwarf NVIDIA's, the latter is making headway. But still, some payback was warranted.</p>
<p>It looks as though the payback will come in the form of Intel supplying the components for Tesla's comprehensive infotainment systems, pushing former supplier NVIDIA to the curb. <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2017/09/27/intel-corporation-reportedly-snatches-tesla-inc-bi.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Tesla isn't Opens a New Window.</a>&#160; <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2017/09/27/intel-corporation-reportedly-snatches-tesla-inc-bi.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">the largest auto manufacturer, Opens a New Window.</a> but it's still a major Internet of Things (IoT) feather in Intel's cap.</p>
<p>Virtual reality (VR) is another market expected to skyrocket, and <a href="https://www.fool.com/investing/2017/09/30/3-things-you-need-to-know-about-intel-corps-new-ga.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">not just for gaming Opens a New Window.</a>, though that application is expected to lead the charge. Intel hopes its recently unveiled wireless technology -- and the freedom to roam it offers users -- will be the catalyst that gets the ball rolling. According to one conservative estimate, VR will drive over $40 billion in sales in 2020.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>Expanding cellular network capacity and performance utilizing 5G is another opportunity with nearly limitless potential, and Intel is also delivering in this key market. Intel has partnered with a couple of European-based networking &#160;giants, and they recently unveiled what they have described as "the first public 5G live network use cases in Europe."</p>
<p>You might think that after Intel's recent stock price run, it's too late to jump on board. The good news is that nothing could be further from the truth. Intel is valued at a mere 12.9 times forward earnings estimates. For some perspective, its peer group average today is 24.2 times trailing earnings. Intel is also a screaming bargain by almost every other common metric used to measure value.</p>
<p>Intel's recent wins in what are expected to become huge markets have gotten much of the attention recently, and rightfully so. But let's not forget Intel's is also delivering with each successive quarterly earnings report.</p>
<p>Last quarter's $14.8 billion in total revenue was another record-breaking result, and its data center, IoT, memory solutions, and PC units all performed admirably. And in a result that may come as a surprise to some, PC-related sales rose 12% to $8.2 billion. There is growing sentiment among analysts that the PC market is stabilizing, and Intel's results continue to prove that point.</p>
<p>Data center revenue climbed 9% to $4.4 billion last quarter, IoT was up 26% to $720 million, and memory sales soared 58% to $874 million. Krzanich's cost-cutting efforts are also in full-swing; the company shaved its operating expenses last quarter to $5.27 billion, down 21% year over year.</p>
<p>Not only has Intel won over investors, it's earned the plaudits that are finally coming its way. It's scoring big wins where they count, its PC component revenue continues to climb quarter in, quarter out, and its data center sales are back on track. And most important for investors, it's not too late to jump on and enjoy Intel's ride.</p>
<p>10 stocks we like better than IntelWhen investing geniuses David and Tom Gardner have a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the newsletter they have run for over a decade, Motley Fool Stock Advisor, has tripled the market.*</p>
<p>David and Tom just revealed what they believe are the <a href="http://infotron.fool.com/infotrack/click?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fool.com%2Fmms%2Fmark%2Fe-foolcom-sa-bbn-static%3Faid%3D8867%26source%3Disaeditxt0010449%26ftm_cam%3Dsa-bbn-evergreen%26ftm_pit%3D6312%26ftm_veh%3Dbbn_article_pitch&amp;impression=11484947-eaff-4f34-a9de-a67e7a7bcb28&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">10 best stocks Opens a New Window.</a> for investors to buy right now... and Intel wasn't one of them! That's right -- they think these 10 stocks are even better buys.</p>
<p><a href="http://infotron.fool.com/infotrack/click?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.fool.com%2Fmms%2Fmark%2Fe-foolcom-sa-bbn-static%3Faid%3D8867%26source%3Disaeditxt0010449%26ftm_cam%3Dsa-bbn-evergreen%26ftm_pit%3D6312%26ftm_veh%3Dbbn_article_pitch&amp;impression=11484947-eaff-4f34-a9de-a67e7a7bcb28&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Click here Opens a New Window.</a> to learn about these picks!</p>
<p>*Stock Advisor returns as of September 5, 2017</p>
<p><a href="http://my.fool.com/profile/timbrugger/info.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">Tim Brugger Opens a New Window.</a> has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Nvidia and Tesla. The Motley Fool recommends Intel. The Motley Fool has a <a href="http://www.fool.com/Legal/fool-disclosure-policy.aspx?&amp;utm_campaign=article&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;uuid=357fa4ae-a852-11e7-93bf-0050569d4be0&amp;utm_source=foxbusiness" type="external">disclosure policy Opens a New Window.</a>.</p> | 599,183 |
<p>Wells Fargo &amp; Co. said it eight of its senior executives will not receive cash bonuses for 2016, including Chief Executive Tim Sloan and Chief Financial Officer John Shrewsberry, as part of the bank's efforts to promote accountability for the operational and reputation risk associated with the sales practice scandal. The bank also said the performance-based equity awards the executives received in 2014, which vested in 2016, will be reduced by up to 50%. The bank said in total, compensation will be reduced by about $32 million, based on target bonuses. "These compensation actions for the operating committee, though not related to any findings of improper behavior, are part of the board's ongoing efforts to promote accountability and ensure Wells Fargo puts customer interests first," said Chairman Stephen Sanger. The stock, which rose 2.1% in premarket trade, has climbed 6.5% over the past three months through Tuesday, while the SPDR Financial Select Sector ETF has rallied 7.2% and the S&amp;P 500 has gained 7.9%.</p>
<p>Copyright © 2017 MarketWatch, Inc.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p> | Wells Fargo Not Paying Bonuses To 8 Senior Executives In Wake Of Sales Practice Scandal | true | http://foxbusiness.com/markets/2017/03/01/wells-fargo-not-paying-bonuses-to-8-senior-executives-in-wake-sales-practice.html | 2017-03-16 | 0right
| Wells Fargo Not Paying Bonuses To 8 Senior Executives In Wake Of Sales Practice Scandal
<p>Wells Fargo &amp; Co. said it eight of its senior executives will not receive cash bonuses for 2016, including Chief Executive Tim Sloan and Chief Financial Officer John Shrewsberry, as part of the bank's efforts to promote accountability for the operational and reputation risk associated with the sales practice scandal. The bank also said the performance-based equity awards the executives received in 2014, which vested in 2016, will be reduced by up to 50%. The bank said in total, compensation will be reduced by about $32 million, based on target bonuses. "These compensation actions for the operating committee, though not related to any findings of improper behavior, are part of the board's ongoing efforts to promote accountability and ensure Wells Fargo puts customer interests first," said Chairman Stephen Sanger. The stock, which rose 2.1% in premarket trade, has climbed 6.5% over the past three months through Tuesday, while the SPDR Financial Select Sector ETF has rallied 7.2% and the S&amp;P 500 has gained 7.9%.</p>
<p>Copyright © 2017 MarketWatch, Inc.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p> | 599,184 |
<p>NASHVILLE, Tenn. — <a href="https://www.upi.com/topic/Cincinnati-Bengals/" type="external">Cincinnati Bengals</a> linebacker <a href="https://www.upi.com/topic/Vontaze-Burfict/" type="external">Vontaze Burfict</a> may be in trouble with the NFL again after being ejected in the second quarter of Sunday’s game against the <a href="https://www.upi.com/topic/Tennessee-Titans/" type="external">Tennessee Titans</a>.</p>
<p>Burfict was part of a pileup near the left corner of the end zone on <a href="https://www.upi.com/topic/Marcus-Mariota/" type="external">Marcus Mariota</a>‘s 8-yard run to the 1. Following the play, Burfict made contact with an official and was immediately booted by referee Jeff Triplette.</p>
<p>On the next play, Tennessee’s <a href="https://www.upi.com/topic/DeMarco_Murray/" type="external">DeMarco Murray</a> scored on a 1-yard plunge for a 14-6 lead with 5:08 left in the half.</p>
<p>Burfict, who drew a personal foul a few plays prior to his ejection for a late hit on Murray out of bounds, has been fined and suspended on multiple occasions in his career for unsportsmanlike conduct and late hits.</p> | Vontaze Burfict: Cincinnati Bengals linebacker ejected for making contact with official | false | https://newsline.com/vontaze-burfict-cincinnati-bengals-linebacker-ejected-for-making-contact-with-official/ | 2017-11-12 | 1right-center
| Vontaze Burfict: Cincinnati Bengals linebacker ejected for making contact with official
<p>NASHVILLE, Tenn. — <a href="https://www.upi.com/topic/Cincinnati-Bengals/" type="external">Cincinnati Bengals</a> linebacker <a href="https://www.upi.com/topic/Vontaze-Burfict/" type="external">Vontaze Burfict</a> may be in trouble with the NFL again after being ejected in the second quarter of Sunday’s game against the <a href="https://www.upi.com/topic/Tennessee-Titans/" type="external">Tennessee Titans</a>.</p>
<p>Burfict was part of a pileup near the left corner of the end zone on <a href="https://www.upi.com/topic/Marcus-Mariota/" type="external">Marcus Mariota</a>‘s 8-yard run to the 1. Following the play, Burfict made contact with an official and was immediately booted by referee Jeff Triplette.</p>
<p>On the next play, Tennessee’s <a href="https://www.upi.com/topic/DeMarco_Murray/" type="external">DeMarco Murray</a> scored on a 1-yard plunge for a 14-6 lead with 5:08 left in the half.</p>
<p>Burfict, who drew a personal foul a few plays prior to his ejection for a late hit on Murray out of bounds, has been fined and suspended on multiple occasions in his career for unsportsmanlike conduct and late hits.</p> | 599,185 |
<p>Good morning. Happy Tuesday. But more importantly, happy second-to-last day of the legislative session.</p>
<p>A big ticket item was crossed off the list Monday when a&#160;bill expanding overtime pay for farm workers passed the Assembly. It now heads to the governor for a final verdict.</p>
<p>The bill would, over the course of a few years, bring&#160;the overtime structure for farm workers in line with that of many other professions by giving overtime past eight hours in a day, where currently the threshold is at 10 hours, and over 40 hours in a week, where it’s currently at 60 hours.</p>
<p>Some members&#160;opposed on procedural grounds. Assembly rules prohibit a measure from being reintroduced if it had already been defeated during that legislative session — the same measure was defeated in the Assembly earlier this year.</p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">CalWatchdog</a> has more.</p>
<p>In other news:</p>
<p>Who will Gov. Jerry Brown believe: the Mothers Against Drunk Driving or his own Department of Motor Vehicles?&#160;Brown will have to choose when deciding whether to sign Senate Bill 1046, a&#160;measure that would require drivers convicted of DUI to purchase and install “ignition interlock” devices in their vehicles. <a href="" type="internal">CalWatchdog</a> has more.</p>
<p>Assembly:</p>
<p>Senate:</p>
<p>Gov. Brown:</p>
<p>Tips: [email protected]</p>
<p>Follow us: @calwatchdog @mflemingterp</p>
<p>New followers:&#160; <a href="https://twitter.com/elmayedda" type="external">@elmayedda</a></p> | CalWatchdog Morning Read – August 30 | false | https://calwatchdog.com/2016/08/30/calwatchdog-morning-read-august-30/ | 2018-08-20 | 3left-center
| CalWatchdog Morning Read – August 30
<p>Good morning. Happy Tuesday. But more importantly, happy second-to-last day of the legislative session.</p>
<p>A big ticket item was crossed off the list Monday when a&#160;bill expanding overtime pay for farm workers passed the Assembly. It now heads to the governor for a final verdict.</p>
<p>The bill would, over the course of a few years, bring&#160;the overtime structure for farm workers in line with that of many other professions by giving overtime past eight hours in a day, where currently the threshold is at 10 hours, and over 40 hours in a week, where it’s currently at 60 hours.</p>
<p>Some members&#160;opposed on procedural grounds. Assembly rules prohibit a measure from being reintroduced if it had already been defeated during that legislative session — the same measure was defeated in the Assembly earlier this year.</p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">CalWatchdog</a> has more.</p>
<p>In other news:</p>
<p>Who will Gov. Jerry Brown believe: the Mothers Against Drunk Driving or his own Department of Motor Vehicles?&#160;Brown will have to choose when deciding whether to sign Senate Bill 1046, a&#160;measure that would require drivers convicted of DUI to purchase and install “ignition interlock” devices in their vehicles. <a href="" type="internal">CalWatchdog</a> has more.</p>
<p>Assembly:</p>
<p>Senate:</p>
<p>Gov. Brown:</p>
<p>Tips: [email protected]</p>
<p>Follow us: @calwatchdog @mflemingterp</p>
<p>New followers:&#160; <a href="https://twitter.com/elmayedda" type="external">@elmayedda</a></p> | 599,186 |
<p>The government of Saudi Arabia has asked banks to provide it with a loan of up to $10 billion, <a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/saudi-loan-idUSL8N16A4KR" type="external">Reuters reported Wednesday Opens a New Window.</a>, citing unnamed sources. An invitation sent to banks to discuss the loan didn't specify size, but sources said it could be around $10 billion or more, the report said. The Saudi finance ministry and central bank didn't respond to requests for comment after hours on Wednesday, Reuters reported. The alleged request from the world's largest oil exporter comes as a rout in crude prices takes a toll on the finances of major producing nations.</p>
<p>Copyright © 2016 MarketWatch, Inc.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p> | Saudi Arabia Seeking International Loan Of Up To $10 Billion: Report | true | http://foxbusiness.com/markets/2016/03/02/saudi-arabia-seeking-international-loan-up-to-10-billion-report.html | 2016-03-02 | 0right
| Saudi Arabia Seeking International Loan Of Up To $10 Billion: Report
<p>The government of Saudi Arabia has asked banks to provide it with a loan of up to $10 billion, <a href="http://www.reuters.com/article/saudi-loan-idUSL8N16A4KR" type="external">Reuters reported Wednesday Opens a New Window.</a>, citing unnamed sources. An invitation sent to banks to discuss the loan didn't specify size, but sources said it could be around $10 billion or more, the report said. The Saudi finance ministry and central bank didn't respond to requests for comment after hours on Wednesday, Reuters reported. The alleged request from the world's largest oil exporter comes as a rout in crude prices takes a toll on the finances of major producing nations.</p>
<p>Copyright © 2016 MarketWatch, Inc.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p> | 599,187 |
<p />
<p>Newt really likes the attack-the-media tactic, using it whenever and wherever an uncomfortable question is posed. But I imagine he never thought he'd have to use those tactics against his <a href="http://nation.foxnews.com/2012-presidential-race/2011/03/02/fox-news-announces-suspension-contributors-newt-gingrich-and-rick-" type="external">former employers</a>, Fox News. Unfortunately for him, Roger Ailes' <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fox_News_Channel_controversies#Daily_memos" type="external">morning memo</a> to his on-air talent was to take on fully the accusation that <a href="http://campaign2012.washingtonexaminer.com/article/newt-gingrich-no-conservative" type="external">Newt Gingrich really isn't a conservative</a> (like St. Ronnie himself could <a href="http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2010/05/10/even-reagan-wasn-t-a-reagan-republican.html" type="external">stand up to the GOP purity</a> nowadays) and that he's saddled with corruption and ethics violation baggage that will hurt his general election viability. This gang up by the second string Fox &amp; Friends group is more than <a href="http://www.mediaite.com/tv/newt-gingrich-explodes-at-fox-friends-isnt-fair-and-balanced-part-of-fox-news/" type="external">little Newtie can handle</a>:</p>
<p>He then took a sharp turn to attack the hosts, offended that he had been asked to “take seriously” Romney’s demand. “Even in the news media, you ought to have some sense of balance. As a reporter, don’t you have some sense of balance? Isn’t ‘fair and balanced’ part of Fox News?” Briggs jumped in to defend Morris’s question, explaining that he was giving Gingrich a chance to respond, not legitimizing any claims. He also expanded the question to propose that it was up in the air whether “any of this mattered. Gingrich responded that “if there is something wrong, we deserve to know” with Romney’s taxes only because of the “billion dollar Obama campaign” that would crush him if there was something wrong there– as opposed to Gingrich’s ethics investigation, which had “been covered for 20 years; it’s all out in the open.”</p>
<p>So why did Gingrich blow up at Morris’s question? It felt, at least on Gingrich’s part, somewhat forced, as if he was waiting for any opportunity to bash them. And that wouldn’t be surprising in light of some peripheral evidence that not all the Fox &amp; Friends hosts were 100% on his side during that testy exchange with CNN’s <a href="http://www.mediaite.com/power-grid/person/?q=John+King" type="external">John King</a>– particularly Briggs, who tweeted his support of King (and Fox’s Neil Cavuto in defending him) that his question about Gingrich’s affair with his now-wife Callista was “ <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/davebriggstv/status/160467776379695104" type="external">fair game</a>” (the twist to this is that Morris, who actually got clawed here, <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/ClaytonMorris/status/160172243442335745" type="external">seemed fine</a> with Gingrich’s reaction to King’s question while it happened on Thursday). Either that, or Gingrich had a bullet in his barrel for the media today that was ready to land no matter where, since the strategy is clearly working, and the Romney tax issue felt like the right moment to strike.</p>
<p>I have to believe that this tactic is going to wear thin fairly soon. The news media is not exactly an industry of shrinking wallflowers. There are a number of egos in the media that rival Gingrich's and at some point, they may get sick of being attacked for giving Newt the free publicity he craves.</p>
<p>By the way...that assertion that Newt made that all he was exonerated of all ethics charges? <a href="http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2012/01/22/408778/gingrich-falsely-claims-he-was-completely-exonerated-in-ethics-investigtion/" type="external">Not so much</a>.</p> | Newt Doesn't Like His Fox News "Fair And Balanced" Treatment | true | http://crooksandliars.com/nicole-belle/newt-doesnt-his-fox-news-fair-and-bal | 2012-01-23 | 4left
| Newt Doesn't Like His Fox News "Fair And Balanced" Treatment
<p />
<p>Newt really likes the attack-the-media tactic, using it whenever and wherever an uncomfortable question is posed. But I imagine he never thought he'd have to use those tactics against his <a href="http://nation.foxnews.com/2012-presidential-race/2011/03/02/fox-news-announces-suspension-contributors-newt-gingrich-and-rick-" type="external">former employers</a>, Fox News. Unfortunately for him, Roger Ailes' <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fox_News_Channel_controversies#Daily_memos" type="external">morning memo</a> to his on-air talent was to take on fully the accusation that <a href="http://campaign2012.washingtonexaminer.com/article/newt-gingrich-no-conservative" type="external">Newt Gingrich really isn't a conservative</a> (like St. Ronnie himself could <a href="http://www.thedailybeast.com/newsweek/2010/05/10/even-reagan-wasn-t-a-reagan-republican.html" type="external">stand up to the GOP purity</a> nowadays) and that he's saddled with corruption and ethics violation baggage that will hurt his general election viability. This gang up by the second string Fox &amp; Friends group is more than <a href="http://www.mediaite.com/tv/newt-gingrich-explodes-at-fox-friends-isnt-fair-and-balanced-part-of-fox-news/" type="external">little Newtie can handle</a>:</p>
<p>He then took a sharp turn to attack the hosts, offended that he had been asked to “take seriously” Romney’s demand. “Even in the news media, you ought to have some sense of balance. As a reporter, don’t you have some sense of balance? Isn’t ‘fair and balanced’ part of Fox News?” Briggs jumped in to defend Morris’s question, explaining that he was giving Gingrich a chance to respond, not legitimizing any claims. He also expanded the question to propose that it was up in the air whether “any of this mattered. Gingrich responded that “if there is something wrong, we deserve to know” with Romney’s taxes only because of the “billion dollar Obama campaign” that would crush him if there was something wrong there– as opposed to Gingrich’s ethics investigation, which had “been covered for 20 years; it’s all out in the open.”</p>
<p>So why did Gingrich blow up at Morris’s question? It felt, at least on Gingrich’s part, somewhat forced, as if he was waiting for any opportunity to bash them. And that wouldn’t be surprising in light of some peripheral evidence that not all the Fox &amp; Friends hosts were 100% on his side during that testy exchange with CNN’s <a href="http://www.mediaite.com/power-grid/person/?q=John+King" type="external">John King</a>– particularly Briggs, who tweeted his support of King (and Fox’s Neil Cavuto in defending him) that his question about Gingrich’s affair with his now-wife Callista was “ <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/davebriggstv/status/160467776379695104" type="external">fair game</a>” (the twist to this is that Morris, who actually got clawed here, <a href="https://twitter.com/#%21/ClaytonMorris/status/160172243442335745" type="external">seemed fine</a> with Gingrich’s reaction to King’s question while it happened on Thursday). Either that, or Gingrich had a bullet in his barrel for the media today that was ready to land no matter where, since the strategy is clearly working, and the Romney tax issue felt like the right moment to strike.</p>
<p>I have to believe that this tactic is going to wear thin fairly soon. The news media is not exactly an industry of shrinking wallflowers. There are a number of egos in the media that rival Gingrich's and at some point, they may get sick of being attacked for giving Newt the free publicity he craves.</p>
<p>By the way...that assertion that Newt made that all he was exonerated of all ethics charges? <a href="http://thinkprogress.org/politics/2012/01/22/408778/gingrich-falsely-claims-he-was-completely-exonerated-in-ethics-investigtion/" type="external">Not so much</a>.</p> | 599,188 |
<p>President Barack Obama on Thursday proposed a plan to tackle soaring U.S. education costs with a new system that judges colleges and universities on their financial value and ties those ratings to disbursement of federal aid.</p>
<p>The Democratic president, who has spent much of the summer promoting new ideas to rev up the economy, unveiled his proposals at the start of a campaign-like bus tour through New York and Pennsylvania.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>The plan calls on the Education Department to institute a ratings system before the 2015 school year that would allow students and parents to select schools based on the best value for the money.</p>
<p>Obama would then push Congress to tie federal student aid to these ratings by 2018, creating an incentive for schools to keep their costs in check.</p>
<p>The plan also aims to ease the pain of federal student loan debt by limiting payments on the loans to 10 percent of borrowers' monthly income.</p>
<p>Major parts of the plan require congressional approval, which may prove difficult. Universities, many of which are already facing a cash crunch, are expected to push back against a ratings system that may be more difficult to influence than private-sector rankings.</p>
<p>"I want to look out for the students who these institutions exist to serve," Obama said during a speech to high school students in Syracuse, New York.</p>
<p>After first landing in the state and greeting Governor Andrew Cuomo - a potential Democratic candidate for president in 2016 - Obama boarded a big black bus that appeared to be the same one that took him through political swing states last year during his re-election battle against Republican Mitt Romney.</p>
<p>The campaign atmosphere is part of a White House strategy to generate attention for the president's proposals and gear up for a fall fight with congressional Republicans over the budget, debt ceiling and implementation of the president's signature healthcare reform, known as Obamacare.</p>
<p>Obama began his first set of remarks at The State University of New York at Buffalo with an attack on Republicans for continuing their quest to repeal the health law. Republican lawmakers are considering using an forthcoming showdown over the U.S. borrowing limit as leverage to delay the law's implementation.</p>
<p>But his main focus was education. Obama wants to bring down tuition costs at U.S. colleges and universities, which have skyrocketed, forcing students and families to take on more debt to afford a college degree.</p>
<p>"At a time when a higher education has never been more important or more expensive, too many students are facing a choice that they should never have to make," he said in Buffalo.</p>
<p>"Either they say no to college, and pay the price for not getting a degree ... or you do what it takes to go to college, but then you run the risk that you won't be able to pay it off because you've got so much debt," Obama said.</p>
<p>REPUBLICAN CONCERNS</p>
<p>The average annual cost of in-state tuition and fees for 2013 at four-year public universities is $8,655, up 4.8 percent from 2012, according to a survey from the College Board released this month.</p>
<p>Private colleges and universities are vastly more expensive.</p>
<p>The federal government provides more than $150 billion in student financial aid each year, and typically that aid has been based on enrollment figures, not the value of the education.</p>
<p>John Kline, the Republican chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Education and the Workforce, expressed reservations about Obama's plan.</p>
<p>"I remain concerned that imposing an arbitrary college ranking system could curtail the very innovation we hope to encourage - and even lead to federal price controls," he said in a statement.</p>
<p>Andrew Kelly, director of the Center on Higher Education at the conservative American Enterprise Institute, said the president's proposals could motivate institutions to make some changes. But he said higher education lobbyists and some lawmakers may argue such a system could create a great disparity among colleges.</p>
<p>"The political fight is going to be very interesting," Kelly said.</p>
<p>Secretary of Education Arne Duncan told reporters traveling with Obama on Air Force One earlier on Thursday that the system would still leave aid options open for students who chose pricier institutions.</p>
<p>"Folks will still have choice, but we want to make sure that good actors are being rewarded," he said.</p>
<p>CAMPAIGN FEEL</p>
<p>Much like his 2012 campaign events, Bruce Springsteen music blasted through loudspeakers when Obama finished his speeches. During the long bus ride between Buffalo and Syracuse, the president made unannounced stops, including a visit to a women's rights center.</p>
<p>He told familiar stories, tied to education, about how long it took him and his wife, Michelle, to pay down their own student loans.</p>
<p>Americans owe about $1.2 trillion in student loan debt, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau estimates. Obama said that debt was crippling to the U.S. economy.</p>
<p>According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the total cost of higher education - including tuition, room and board - for undergraduates at four-year public institutions ballooned 73 percent to an average of $15,900 per year in 2011 compared with 2001.</p>
<p>Obama this month signed legislation that reversed a big increase in student loan interest rates and will tie future rates to fluctuations in the 10-year Treasury note. The bill was hammered out in intensive negotiations with lawmakers.</p>
<p>Over the last five years, the president has rolled out a number of college affordability initiatives, including increasing Pell Grant aid to low-income students, steps to encourage colleges to be more transparent about costs, and awarding grants to states and institutions that work to bring costs down.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p> | Obama Outlines New Federal Student Aid Plan | true | http://foxbusiness.com/politics/2013/08/23/obama-outlines-new-federal-student-aid-plan.html | 2016-03-02 | 0right
| Obama Outlines New Federal Student Aid Plan
<p>President Barack Obama on Thursday proposed a plan to tackle soaring U.S. education costs with a new system that judges colleges and universities on their financial value and ties those ratings to disbursement of federal aid.</p>
<p>The Democratic president, who has spent much of the summer promoting new ideas to rev up the economy, unveiled his proposals at the start of a campaign-like bus tour through New York and Pennsylvania.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>The plan calls on the Education Department to institute a ratings system before the 2015 school year that would allow students and parents to select schools based on the best value for the money.</p>
<p>Obama would then push Congress to tie federal student aid to these ratings by 2018, creating an incentive for schools to keep their costs in check.</p>
<p>The plan also aims to ease the pain of federal student loan debt by limiting payments on the loans to 10 percent of borrowers' monthly income.</p>
<p>Major parts of the plan require congressional approval, which may prove difficult. Universities, many of which are already facing a cash crunch, are expected to push back against a ratings system that may be more difficult to influence than private-sector rankings.</p>
<p>"I want to look out for the students who these institutions exist to serve," Obama said during a speech to high school students in Syracuse, New York.</p>
<p>After first landing in the state and greeting Governor Andrew Cuomo - a potential Democratic candidate for president in 2016 - Obama boarded a big black bus that appeared to be the same one that took him through political swing states last year during his re-election battle against Republican Mitt Romney.</p>
<p>The campaign atmosphere is part of a White House strategy to generate attention for the president's proposals and gear up for a fall fight with congressional Republicans over the budget, debt ceiling and implementation of the president's signature healthcare reform, known as Obamacare.</p>
<p>Obama began his first set of remarks at The State University of New York at Buffalo with an attack on Republicans for continuing their quest to repeal the health law. Republican lawmakers are considering using an forthcoming showdown over the U.S. borrowing limit as leverage to delay the law's implementation.</p>
<p>But his main focus was education. Obama wants to bring down tuition costs at U.S. colleges and universities, which have skyrocketed, forcing students and families to take on more debt to afford a college degree.</p>
<p>"At a time when a higher education has never been more important or more expensive, too many students are facing a choice that they should never have to make," he said in Buffalo.</p>
<p>"Either they say no to college, and pay the price for not getting a degree ... or you do what it takes to go to college, but then you run the risk that you won't be able to pay it off because you've got so much debt," Obama said.</p>
<p>REPUBLICAN CONCERNS</p>
<p>The average annual cost of in-state tuition and fees for 2013 at four-year public universities is $8,655, up 4.8 percent from 2012, according to a survey from the College Board released this month.</p>
<p>Private colleges and universities are vastly more expensive.</p>
<p>The federal government provides more than $150 billion in student financial aid each year, and typically that aid has been based on enrollment figures, not the value of the education.</p>
<p>John Kline, the Republican chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Education and the Workforce, expressed reservations about Obama's plan.</p>
<p>"I remain concerned that imposing an arbitrary college ranking system could curtail the very innovation we hope to encourage - and even lead to federal price controls," he said in a statement.</p>
<p>Andrew Kelly, director of the Center on Higher Education at the conservative American Enterprise Institute, said the president's proposals could motivate institutions to make some changes. But he said higher education lobbyists and some lawmakers may argue such a system could create a great disparity among colleges.</p>
<p>"The political fight is going to be very interesting," Kelly said.</p>
<p>Secretary of Education Arne Duncan told reporters traveling with Obama on Air Force One earlier on Thursday that the system would still leave aid options open for students who chose pricier institutions.</p>
<p>"Folks will still have choice, but we want to make sure that good actors are being rewarded," he said.</p>
<p>CAMPAIGN FEEL</p>
<p>Much like his 2012 campaign events, Bruce Springsteen music blasted through loudspeakers when Obama finished his speeches. During the long bus ride between Buffalo and Syracuse, the president made unannounced stops, including a visit to a women's rights center.</p>
<p>He told familiar stories, tied to education, about how long it took him and his wife, Michelle, to pay down their own student loans.</p>
<p>Americans owe about $1.2 trillion in student loan debt, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau estimates. Obama said that debt was crippling to the U.S. economy.</p>
<p>According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the total cost of higher education - including tuition, room and board - for undergraduates at four-year public institutions ballooned 73 percent to an average of $15,900 per year in 2011 compared with 2001.</p>
<p>Obama this month signed legislation that reversed a big increase in student loan interest rates and will tie future rates to fluctuations in the 10-year Treasury note. The bill was hammered out in intensive negotiations with lawmakers.</p>
<p>Over the last five years, the president has rolled out a number of college affordability initiatives, including increasing Pell Grant aid to low-income students, steps to encourage colleges to be more transparent about costs, and awarding grants to states and institutions that work to bring costs down.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p> | 599,189 |
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>The Clovis News Journal reports ( <a href="http://bit.ly/1dQbqlf)" type="external">http://bit.ly/1dQbqlf)</a> the New Mexico Environment Department issued five violations to Yucca Middle School after an inspection last month turned up live and dead roaches.</p>
<p>The report cites several issues including roach-related cleaning and sanitizing and "needed pest control measures."</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Paul Klein, Clovis Municipal Schools director of student nutrition, says the school district has since resolved the matter.</p>
<p>He says a pest control contractor has visited the campus several times since the April 21 inspection.</p>
<p>The department also suggested that school staff may need more training on sanitary practices.</p>
<p>The school received the highest number of violations in the district.</p>
<p>Thirteen others in the district received none.</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>Information from: Clovis News Journal, <a href="http://www.cnjonline.com" type="external">http://www.cnjonline.com</a></p> | Inspectors find roaches in Clovis school cafeteria | false | https://abqjournal.com/580808/inspectors-find-roaches-in-clovis-school-cafeteria.html | 2least
| Inspectors find roaches in Clovis school cafeteria
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>The Clovis News Journal reports ( <a href="http://bit.ly/1dQbqlf)" type="external">http://bit.ly/1dQbqlf)</a> the New Mexico Environment Department issued five violations to Yucca Middle School after an inspection last month turned up live and dead roaches.</p>
<p>The report cites several issues including roach-related cleaning and sanitizing and "needed pest control measures."</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Paul Klein, Clovis Municipal Schools director of student nutrition, says the school district has since resolved the matter.</p>
<p>He says a pest control contractor has visited the campus several times since the April 21 inspection.</p>
<p>The department also suggested that school staff may need more training on sanitary practices.</p>
<p>The school received the highest number of violations in the district.</p>
<p>Thirteen others in the district received none.</p>
<p>___</p>
<p>Information from: Clovis News Journal, <a href="http://www.cnjonline.com" type="external">http://www.cnjonline.com</a></p> | 599,190 |
|
<p>Justice Antonin Scalia, along with two of his conservative brethren, used a largely unnoticed immigration case to offer an implicit rant against marriage equality. Though his opinion never mentions same-sex marriage or the rights of LGBT Americans directly, it is hard to imagine that Scalia did not have the battle over marriage equality on his mind when he wrote the plurality opinion in <a href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/14pdf/13-1402_e29g.pdf" type="external">Kerry v. Din</a>.</p>
<p>Din was not an especially closely watched case this Supreme Court term. It involves a “former civil servant in the Taliban regime” who is married to a United States citizen, yet was denied a visa to immigrate to this country. For six of the justices, it also turned on a fairly minor and technical question. Justice Stephen Breyer, joined by his fellow Democratic appointees, wrote that the federal government owed this man, Kanishka Berashk, a more complete explanation of why he was denied a visa. Justice Anthony Kennedy, joined only by Justice Samuel Alito, wrote what lower courts will probably view as the controlling opinion in this case. Kennedy concluded that the federal government’s citation to a law “prohibiting the issuance of visas to persons who engage in terrorist activities” was all the explanation Mr. Berashk and his wife were entitled to.</p>
<p>That left Justice Scalia who, joined by Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Clarence Thomas, transformed this seemingly minor case into a sweeping refutation of the idea that marriage rights can be expanded beyond their historic bounds.</p>
<p>The case arose after Berashk’s U.S. citizen wife, Fauzia Din, made a somewhat unusual constitutional claim. As Scalia describes her case, Din “claims that the Government denied her due process of law when, without adequate explanation of the reason for the visa denial, it deprived her of her constitutional right to live in the United States with her spouse.” He then devotes the bulk of his opinion towards explaining why “[t]here is no such constitutional right.”</p>
<p>On the surface, Scalia’s opinion hews to the issue presented by Din without mentioning marriage equality at all. Yet his dismissive take on Din’s legal arguments would be harmful to the cause of marriage equality if they were ever adopted by a majority of the Court. “Nothing in the cases Din cites,” Scalia says, “establishes a free-floating and categorical liberty interest in marriage (or any other formulation Din offers) sufficient to trigger constitutional protection whenever a regulation in any way touches upon an aspect of the marital relationship.” Instead, Scalia writes that this case is controlled by the Court’s decision in <a href="https://scholar.google.com/scholar_case?case=17920279791882194984&amp;hl=en&amp;as_sdt=6&amp;as_vis=1&amp;oi=scholarr" type="external">Washington v. Glucksberg</a>, which tied the scope of many constitutional rights to “this Nation’s history and practice.”</p>
<p>“Even if we might ‘imply’ a liberty interest in marriage generally speaking,” Scalia writes, “that must give way when there is a tradition denying the specific application of that general interest.”</p>
<p>In Din’s case, Scalia cites a bevy of early twentieth century laws, many of which unconstitutionally discriminated against U.S. citizen women, to justify the proposition that a wife’s right to live in the United States with her non-citizen husband is not rooted in America’s legal tradition. Yet his attempt to tie the scope of the marriage right to history and tradition has obvious echoes in the marriage equality debate. During oral arguments over marriage equality this past April, Scalia focused a claim that <a href="" type="internal">“for millennia, not a single society” supported marriage equality</a>. His frequent ally, Justice Alito, claimed that even “ancient Greece,” a society that Alito perceived as welcoming to same-sex relationships, did not permit same-sex marriage. Even Justice Kennedy, a frequent proponent of gay rights, worried that “we’re talking about millennia” that human civilization did not recognize same-sex marriages.</p>
<p>To be sure, gay rights attorneys have other arguments at their fingertips beyond the claim that their clients are protected by a constitutional right to marry — including a <a href="" type="internal">very strong claim</a> that dening marriage equality to same-sex couples violates the Constitution’s ban on many forms of discrimination. Nevertheless, if marriage rights are fixed in place according to past generations’ <a href="" type="internal">frequently abusive treatment of LGBT Americans</a>, then marriage equality is a lost cause.</p>
<p>The good news for same-sex couples is that Scalia’s opinion was only joined by himself and two other justices. All five of the votes that supporters of marriage equality need to prevail — Kennedy and the four liberals — either wrote separate concurring opinions or joined the dissent. If anything, in other words, Din may give marriage equality’s proponents some additional cause for hope, as no one joined Scalia’s opinion who wasn’t <a href="" type="internal">already expected to vote against equality</a>.</p> | Justice Scalia Turns Obscure Immigration Case Into A Proxy War Over Marriage Equality | true | http://thinkprogress.org/justice/2015/06/15/3669570/justice-scalia-turns-obscure-immigration-case-proxy-war-marriage-equality/ | 2015-06-15 | 4left
| Justice Scalia Turns Obscure Immigration Case Into A Proxy War Over Marriage Equality
<p>Justice Antonin Scalia, along with two of his conservative brethren, used a largely unnoticed immigration case to offer an implicit rant against marriage equality. Though his opinion never mentions same-sex marriage or the rights of LGBT Americans directly, it is hard to imagine that Scalia did not have the battle over marriage equality on his mind when he wrote the plurality opinion in <a href="http://www.supremecourt.gov/opinions/14pdf/13-1402_e29g.pdf" type="external">Kerry v. Din</a>.</p>
<p>Din was not an especially closely watched case this Supreme Court term. It involves a “former civil servant in the Taliban regime” who is married to a United States citizen, yet was denied a visa to immigrate to this country. For six of the justices, it also turned on a fairly minor and technical question. Justice Stephen Breyer, joined by his fellow Democratic appointees, wrote that the federal government owed this man, Kanishka Berashk, a more complete explanation of why he was denied a visa. Justice Anthony Kennedy, joined only by Justice Samuel Alito, wrote what lower courts will probably view as the controlling opinion in this case. Kennedy concluded that the federal government’s citation to a law “prohibiting the issuance of visas to persons who engage in terrorist activities” was all the explanation Mr. Berashk and his wife were entitled to.</p>
<p>That left Justice Scalia who, joined by Chief Justice John Roberts and Justice Clarence Thomas, transformed this seemingly minor case into a sweeping refutation of the idea that marriage rights can be expanded beyond their historic bounds.</p>
<p>The case arose after Berashk’s U.S. citizen wife, Fauzia Din, made a somewhat unusual constitutional claim. As Scalia describes her case, Din “claims that the Government denied her due process of law when, without adequate explanation of the reason for the visa denial, it deprived her of her constitutional right to live in the United States with her spouse.” He then devotes the bulk of his opinion towards explaining why “[t]here is no such constitutional right.”</p>
<p>On the surface, Scalia’s opinion hews to the issue presented by Din without mentioning marriage equality at all. Yet his dismissive take on Din’s legal arguments would be harmful to the cause of marriage equality if they were ever adopted by a majority of the Court. “Nothing in the cases Din cites,” Scalia says, “establishes a free-floating and categorical liberty interest in marriage (or any other formulation Din offers) sufficient to trigger constitutional protection whenever a regulation in any way touches upon an aspect of the marital relationship.” Instead, Scalia writes that this case is controlled by the Court’s decision in <a href="https://scholar.google.com/scholar_case?case=17920279791882194984&amp;hl=en&amp;as_sdt=6&amp;as_vis=1&amp;oi=scholarr" type="external">Washington v. Glucksberg</a>, which tied the scope of many constitutional rights to “this Nation’s history and practice.”</p>
<p>“Even if we might ‘imply’ a liberty interest in marriage generally speaking,” Scalia writes, “that must give way when there is a tradition denying the specific application of that general interest.”</p>
<p>In Din’s case, Scalia cites a bevy of early twentieth century laws, many of which unconstitutionally discriminated against U.S. citizen women, to justify the proposition that a wife’s right to live in the United States with her non-citizen husband is not rooted in America’s legal tradition. Yet his attempt to tie the scope of the marriage right to history and tradition has obvious echoes in the marriage equality debate. During oral arguments over marriage equality this past April, Scalia focused a claim that <a href="" type="internal">“for millennia, not a single society” supported marriage equality</a>. His frequent ally, Justice Alito, claimed that even “ancient Greece,” a society that Alito perceived as welcoming to same-sex relationships, did not permit same-sex marriage. Even Justice Kennedy, a frequent proponent of gay rights, worried that “we’re talking about millennia” that human civilization did not recognize same-sex marriages.</p>
<p>To be sure, gay rights attorneys have other arguments at their fingertips beyond the claim that their clients are protected by a constitutional right to marry — including a <a href="" type="internal">very strong claim</a> that dening marriage equality to same-sex couples violates the Constitution’s ban on many forms of discrimination. Nevertheless, if marriage rights are fixed in place according to past generations’ <a href="" type="internal">frequently abusive treatment of LGBT Americans</a>, then marriage equality is a lost cause.</p>
<p>The good news for same-sex couples is that Scalia’s opinion was only joined by himself and two other justices. All five of the votes that supporters of marriage equality need to prevail — Kennedy and the four liberals — either wrote separate concurring opinions or joined the dissent. If anything, in other words, Din may give marriage equality’s proponents some additional cause for hope, as no one joined Scalia’s opinion who wasn’t <a href="" type="internal">already expected to vote against equality</a>.</p> | 599,191 |
<p>Yes… yes, <a href="" type="internal">I’ve heard it all before</a>. Apparently I’m some sort of “paid shill” for Hillary (still waiting on that check, by the way), I’m a “fake progressive,” and I’m just “afraid” of the Sanders revolution.</p>
<p>Now that we got that out of the way, hopefully now we can focus on what I mean when I say Hillary Clinton has been more honest with voters than Bernie Sanders.</p>
<p>I certainly don’t mean that Bernie Sanders is a liar or a dishonest person. In fact, despite what most people may think about either candidate, according to non-partisan fact-checking site Politifact, <a href="http://www.politifact.com/personalities/hillary-clinton/" type="external">Clinton</a> and <a href="http://www.politifact.com/personalities/bernie-s/" type="external">Sanders</a>&#160;both tell the truth at about the same rate. Clinton’s “True/Mostly True” score is 50 percent while Sanders comes in at&#160;52 percent.</p>
<p>What I mean when I say Clinton is being more honest with voters than Sanders is that, for maybe the first time, we’re seeing a leading candidate of a major political party essentially telling voters:&#160;Look, I know what my opponent is telling you sounds great, but based on the realities of how government works, what he’s promising he’s going to do&#160;isn’t remotely feasible or realistic.</p>
<p>For as much flack as Clinton gets from many Sanders supporters for supposedly saying whatever she feels will benefit her most politically, the truth is, she could have simply gone all-in on single-payer health care, free public college and a $15 an hour minimum wage to leave very little gap between her and Sanders. Politically speaking, especially as it relates to the primaries, that would have probably been&#160;the easier thing to do.</p>
<p>However, the political realities of an election are as such that you can either run on ideological purity or you can run on realistic ideas.</p>
<p>Sure, many of the policies on which&#160;Sanders has largely built his campaign are more liberal than several of Clinton’s policies. He wants single-payer, she wants to improve and expand the Affordable Care Act. He wants free public college, she wants debt-free public college. He wants a $15 minimum wage, she wants $12.&#160;The problem with what Sanders wants to do is that his big plans stand absolutely zero chance at ever getting through Congress.</p>
<p>Now I know what some of you are going to say: The wave of support he’ll bring to the polls in November would hand Congress back over to Democrats so he could get this passed.&#160;</p>
<p>No, it won’t.</p>
<p>First, there’s almost zero chance Democrats reclaim a majority in the House of Representatives this November, though there is a distinct possibility that they&#160;can&#160;retake the majority in the Senate. But even if, by some miracle, Democrats took back the House&#160;and&#160;gained a majority in the Senate – they would still need 60 seats in the Senate to prevent Republicans from being able to filibuster legislation. That’s even more unlikely than Democrats winning back a majority in the House.</p>
<p>But even beyond all of that, there’s another reality many Sanders supporters&#160;seem to ignore. That is, there are quite a few congressional Democrats from somewhat conservative areas of this country supported by left of center voters&#160;who would oppose some of the policies on which Sanders is running. So it’s not&#160;just&#160;that Sanders would need Democrats to take back both the House and Senate, he would need&#160;overwhelming majorities&#160;in both houses to stand any chance of his&#160;proposals getting&#160;through the legislative process.</p>
<p>Now if you want to tell yourself that’s all possible this November, go right ahead if that makes you feel better. But that’s not going to change what the political realities are.</p>
<p>In fact, even Sanders knows an overwhelming Democratic majority in Congress is unlikely based on his answer to a question <a href="" type="internal">during CNN’s town hall</a> when he was asked how he plans to get any of this passed. His answer wasn’t that he thinks Democrats are going to shock the world by winning overwhelming majorities in both the House and Senate. It was his claim that he has a record working with the other side to get things done. Though the key phrase he used during his answer was “when there was common ground.”</p>
<p>I can promise you this much: when it comes to socializing health care, free public college, more than doubling the minimum wage, raising taxes on the middle class&#160;and passing&#160;trillions&#160;in tax hikes for the wealthy – there’s absolutely&#160;zero&#160;“common ground” to be found within the GOP on any of that.</p>
<p>I’m not saying Clinton has been perfect. I think when she says that Sanders wants to “rip up Obamacare and Medicare” she’s being a bit disingenuous. While&#160;technically true&#160;(being that Medicare has copays, and Sanders’ single-payer plan doesn’t, it’s not really “Medicare-for-all”) in that he’s wanting to get rid of the systems we have now, he wants to replace it with his plan. So it’s misleading to claim that he’s trying to “get rid” of something. The context of what she’s saying is that we’ve spent years trying to get where we are now with health care reform so we should build on that instead of trying to start completely over from scratch – especially with plans she knows aren’t politically realistic.</p>
<p>At least not now. In the future? Probably. But I see the path to single-payer health care through expanding the Affordable Care Act to such an extent that it eventually transitions us toward true universal health care. While that might take longer than most people want, I think that’s a much more plausible strategy than going straight for a complete overhaul of our entire health care system.</p>
<p>Again, I’m not calling Bernie Sanders a liar. As I’ve said for months, if he ultimately wins the nomination I’ll fight relentlessly for him to be our next president just as I would for Hillary Clinton. What I’m saying is that, based on the realities of government, he’s building his campaign based upon ideas that just aren’t realistic. He’s not lying as much as he’s misrepresenting what he could actually get accomplished if he were president. While all politicians do this, including President Obama and Hillary Clinton, his entire campaign is mainly built upon ideas that are so far left that he would&#160;have trouble getting some Democrats to support them.</p>
<p>Another response I’m sure I’ll get is the typical “ideological purist” response of: We need a revolution to come in and change everything to put an end to the status quo. “Settling” is what we’ve done for too long, which is why nothing ever gets done.&#160;</p>
<p>Look, you won’t get any argument from me that our government generally sucks and needs to change. That being said, politics is often about knowing how to pick your battles. In fact, sometimes it’s about taking one step back to get two steps ahead. And that’s never going to change no matter how many times you say we “need a political revolution.” Politics, since its inception centuries ago, has always been a slow process toward progress. Ultimately, pushing too hard for something when the environment isn’t conducive to accomplishing those&#160;goals can actually make progress even more difficult to achieve&#160;in the future.</p>
<p>We have two candidates running very similar, yet still very different campaigns. On one side we have Bernie Sanders, who’s giving many on the far left exactly what they’ve wanted to hear for years. He’s making a lot of huge promises that play right into the hopes and dreams of far-left liberals. And on the other side&#160;we have Hillary Clinton, who’s still very liberal on a lot of these issues, telling voters the truth about the realities of government and what sort of progressive goals are realistically achievable based upon those&#160;realities. Even though by doing so she’s alienated some of the liberal base.</p>
<p>Ultimately, whether it’s Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders as the Democratic nominee for president, I’m going to bust my butt to make damn sure <a href="" type="internal">Republicans don’t retake the White House in 2016</a>. Because no matter what your feelings might be about either the “dishonest Wall Street shill” Clinton or the “unrealistic grumpy socialist” Sanders, both candidates are far… far better than anything the GOP will nominate.</p>
<p>And as I’ve said plenty of times before, <a href="" type="internal">there’s far too much at stake</a> this election to allow a Republican to be our next president.</p>
<p>Feel free to&#160; <a href="https://www.twitter.com/allen_clifton" type="external">hit me up on Twitter</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/allencliftonroc" type="external">Facebook</a> and let me know what you all think.</p>
<p />
<p><a href="" type="internal">Exposing Facts About Fanatical 'Pro-Bernie Sanders' Blogger H.A. Goodman</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Bernie Sanders Is The Truly Progressive Candidate, Not Hillary Clinton</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">10 Questions I Need Bernie Sanders Supporters to Answer</a></p>
<p>0 Facebook comments</p> | Like it or Not, Hillary Clinton is Being More Honest with Voters Than Bernie Sanders | true | http://forwardprogressives.com/like-it-or-not-hillary-clinton-is-being-more-honest-to-voters-than-bernie-sanders/ | 2016-02-02 | 4left
| Like it or Not, Hillary Clinton is Being More Honest with Voters Than Bernie Sanders
<p>Yes… yes, <a href="" type="internal">I’ve heard it all before</a>. Apparently I’m some sort of “paid shill” for Hillary (still waiting on that check, by the way), I’m a “fake progressive,” and I’m just “afraid” of the Sanders revolution.</p>
<p>Now that we got that out of the way, hopefully now we can focus on what I mean when I say Hillary Clinton has been more honest with voters than Bernie Sanders.</p>
<p>I certainly don’t mean that Bernie Sanders is a liar or a dishonest person. In fact, despite what most people may think about either candidate, according to non-partisan fact-checking site Politifact, <a href="http://www.politifact.com/personalities/hillary-clinton/" type="external">Clinton</a> and <a href="http://www.politifact.com/personalities/bernie-s/" type="external">Sanders</a>&#160;both tell the truth at about the same rate. Clinton’s “True/Mostly True” score is 50 percent while Sanders comes in at&#160;52 percent.</p>
<p>What I mean when I say Clinton is being more honest with voters than Sanders is that, for maybe the first time, we’re seeing a leading candidate of a major political party essentially telling voters:&#160;Look, I know what my opponent is telling you sounds great, but based on the realities of how government works, what he’s promising he’s going to do&#160;isn’t remotely feasible or realistic.</p>
<p>For as much flack as Clinton gets from many Sanders supporters for supposedly saying whatever she feels will benefit her most politically, the truth is, she could have simply gone all-in on single-payer health care, free public college and a $15 an hour minimum wage to leave very little gap between her and Sanders. Politically speaking, especially as it relates to the primaries, that would have probably been&#160;the easier thing to do.</p>
<p>However, the political realities of an election are as such that you can either run on ideological purity or you can run on realistic ideas.</p>
<p>Sure, many of the policies on which&#160;Sanders has largely built his campaign are more liberal than several of Clinton’s policies. He wants single-payer, she wants to improve and expand the Affordable Care Act. He wants free public college, she wants debt-free public college. He wants a $15 minimum wage, she wants $12.&#160;The problem with what Sanders wants to do is that his big plans stand absolutely zero chance at ever getting through Congress.</p>
<p>Now I know what some of you are going to say: The wave of support he’ll bring to the polls in November would hand Congress back over to Democrats so he could get this passed.&#160;</p>
<p>No, it won’t.</p>
<p>First, there’s almost zero chance Democrats reclaim a majority in the House of Representatives this November, though there is a distinct possibility that they&#160;can&#160;retake the majority in the Senate. But even if, by some miracle, Democrats took back the House&#160;and&#160;gained a majority in the Senate – they would still need 60 seats in the Senate to prevent Republicans from being able to filibuster legislation. That’s even more unlikely than Democrats winning back a majority in the House.</p>
<p>But even beyond all of that, there’s another reality many Sanders supporters&#160;seem to ignore. That is, there are quite a few congressional Democrats from somewhat conservative areas of this country supported by left of center voters&#160;who would oppose some of the policies on which Sanders is running. So it’s not&#160;just&#160;that Sanders would need Democrats to take back both the House and Senate, he would need&#160;overwhelming majorities&#160;in both houses to stand any chance of his&#160;proposals getting&#160;through the legislative process.</p>
<p>Now if you want to tell yourself that’s all possible this November, go right ahead if that makes you feel better. But that’s not going to change what the political realities are.</p>
<p>In fact, even Sanders knows an overwhelming Democratic majority in Congress is unlikely based on his answer to a question <a href="" type="internal">during CNN’s town hall</a> when he was asked how he plans to get any of this passed. His answer wasn’t that he thinks Democrats are going to shock the world by winning overwhelming majorities in both the House and Senate. It was his claim that he has a record working with the other side to get things done. Though the key phrase he used during his answer was “when there was common ground.”</p>
<p>I can promise you this much: when it comes to socializing health care, free public college, more than doubling the minimum wage, raising taxes on the middle class&#160;and passing&#160;trillions&#160;in tax hikes for the wealthy – there’s absolutely&#160;zero&#160;“common ground” to be found within the GOP on any of that.</p>
<p>I’m not saying Clinton has been perfect. I think when she says that Sanders wants to “rip up Obamacare and Medicare” she’s being a bit disingenuous. While&#160;technically true&#160;(being that Medicare has copays, and Sanders’ single-payer plan doesn’t, it’s not really “Medicare-for-all”) in that he’s wanting to get rid of the systems we have now, he wants to replace it with his plan. So it’s misleading to claim that he’s trying to “get rid” of something. The context of what she’s saying is that we’ve spent years trying to get where we are now with health care reform so we should build on that instead of trying to start completely over from scratch – especially with plans she knows aren’t politically realistic.</p>
<p>At least not now. In the future? Probably. But I see the path to single-payer health care through expanding the Affordable Care Act to such an extent that it eventually transitions us toward true universal health care. While that might take longer than most people want, I think that’s a much more plausible strategy than going straight for a complete overhaul of our entire health care system.</p>
<p>Again, I’m not calling Bernie Sanders a liar. As I’ve said for months, if he ultimately wins the nomination I’ll fight relentlessly for him to be our next president just as I would for Hillary Clinton. What I’m saying is that, based on the realities of government, he’s building his campaign based upon ideas that just aren’t realistic. He’s not lying as much as he’s misrepresenting what he could actually get accomplished if he were president. While all politicians do this, including President Obama and Hillary Clinton, his entire campaign is mainly built upon ideas that are so far left that he would&#160;have trouble getting some Democrats to support them.</p>
<p>Another response I’m sure I’ll get is the typical “ideological purist” response of: We need a revolution to come in and change everything to put an end to the status quo. “Settling” is what we’ve done for too long, which is why nothing ever gets done.&#160;</p>
<p>Look, you won’t get any argument from me that our government generally sucks and needs to change. That being said, politics is often about knowing how to pick your battles. In fact, sometimes it’s about taking one step back to get two steps ahead. And that’s never going to change no matter how many times you say we “need a political revolution.” Politics, since its inception centuries ago, has always been a slow process toward progress. Ultimately, pushing too hard for something when the environment isn’t conducive to accomplishing those&#160;goals can actually make progress even more difficult to achieve&#160;in the future.</p>
<p>We have two candidates running very similar, yet still very different campaigns. On one side we have Bernie Sanders, who’s giving many on the far left exactly what they’ve wanted to hear for years. He’s making a lot of huge promises that play right into the hopes and dreams of far-left liberals. And on the other side&#160;we have Hillary Clinton, who’s still very liberal on a lot of these issues, telling voters the truth about the realities of government and what sort of progressive goals are realistically achievable based upon those&#160;realities. Even though by doing so she’s alienated some of the liberal base.</p>
<p>Ultimately, whether it’s Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders as the Democratic nominee for president, I’m going to bust my butt to make damn sure <a href="" type="internal">Republicans don’t retake the White House in 2016</a>. Because no matter what your feelings might be about either the “dishonest Wall Street shill” Clinton or the “unrealistic grumpy socialist” Sanders, both candidates are far… far better than anything the GOP will nominate.</p>
<p>And as I’ve said plenty of times before, <a href="" type="internal">there’s far too much at stake</a> this election to allow a Republican to be our next president.</p>
<p>Feel free to&#160; <a href="https://www.twitter.com/allen_clifton" type="external">hit me up on Twitter</a> or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/allencliftonroc" type="external">Facebook</a> and let me know what you all think.</p>
<p />
<p><a href="" type="internal">Exposing Facts About Fanatical 'Pro-Bernie Sanders' Blogger H.A. Goodman</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">Bernie Sanders Is The Truly Progressive Candidate, Not Hillary Clinton</a></p>
<p><a href="" type="internal">10 Questions I Need Bernie Sanders Supporters to Answer</a></p>
<p>0 Facebook comments</p> | 599,192 |
<p>Published time: 4 Sep, 2017 20:56</p>
<p>Fewer than one in three French voters are satisfied with the performance of Emmanuel Macron, whose popularity has rapidly collapsed following overwhelming presidential and parliamentary wins earlier in the year.</p>
<p>Read more</p>
<p><a href="https://www.rt.com/news/401508-france-labor-reform-protest/" type="external" /></p>
<p>Only 30 percent of those surveyed by YouGov in a <a href="https://d25d2506sfb94s.cloudfront.net/cumulus_uploads/document/9wiili3cx9/R%C3%A9sultats%20YouGov%20pour%20LeHuffPost%20(Barom%C3%A8tre)%20121%20010917_As_Sent.pdf" type="external">poll</a> commissioned by Huffpost and CNEWS said that they were content with the performance of the 39-year-old president, while 54 said they were not. A mere 5 percent stated that they were “very happy” with Macron’s first 100 days in office, while 28 percent said they were “very unhappy.”</p>
<p>Having been swept into office on a broad platform, Macron’s popularity is fraying around the edges of the electorate. Twelve percent of left voters – mostly communists – endorse his performance, as do 9 percent of National Front voters, while he has the backing of 39 percent of Socialist Party supporters, and 40 percent among right-wing Republicans.</p>
<p>Indeed, only supporters of his own En Marche! Movement rate his performance as a net positive – three-quarters of them feel Macron is doing a good job.</p>
<p>The trend also does not make for good reading – Macron’s approval ratings in the same poll stood at 43 percent in late June, and 36 percent in early August.</p>
<p>Read more</p>
<p><a href="https://www.rt.com/viral/398806-petition-against-brigitte-macron-first-lady-180000-signatures/" type="external" /></p>
<p>Comparisons show that support has dwindled particularly precipitously&#160;among left-wing voters, likely due to imminent budget cuts and work code reforms announced by the president, whose party has a majority in the country’s legislative assembly. In contrast, the latest polls show that he has recovered some confidence among the right, though not enough to compensate for losses elsewhere.</p>
<p>Once regarded as fresh-faced and blessed with an aura of success, Macron has recently attracted media criticism for supposed glibness, high-handedness and vanity, including a widely-circulated story that he has spent €26,000 on make-up for public appearances since taking office, following his victory over Marine Le Pen in May.</p>
<p>But the YouGov poll, which surveyed a total of 1,003 people on August 28 and 29, showed that his government, assembled from politicians from across the political spectrum, is also thought to be performing well by just 29 percent of voters, and badly by 57 percent.</p>
<p>Asked to respond to previous poor polls in an interview with Le Point last week, Macron complained that he has “to live with people’s impatience for the next few months.” He also publicly declared last month that the French people “hate reforms,” but promised to stick with his course of “transformation.”</p>
<p /> | Macron’s approval rating nosedives to 30% in latest poll | false | https://newsline.com/macrons-approval-rating-nosedives-to-30-in-latest-poll/ | 2017-09-04 | 1right-center
| Macron’s approval rating nosedives to 30% in latest poll
<p>Published time: 4 Sep, 2017 20:56</p>
<p>Fewer than one in three French voters are satisfied with the performance of Emmanuel Macron, whose popularity has rapidly collapsed following overwhelming presidential and parliamentary wins earlier in the year.</p>
<p>Read more</p>
<p><a href="https://www.rt.com/news/401508-france-labor-reform-protest/" type="external" /></p>
<p>Only 30 percent of those surveyed by YouGov in a <a href="https://d25d2506sfb94s.cloudfront.net/cumulus_uploads/document/9wiili3cx9/R%C3%A9sultats%20YouGov%20pour%20LeHuffPost%20(Barom%C3%A8tre)%20121%20010917_As_Sent.pdf" type="external">poll</a> commissioned by Huffpost and CNEWS said that they were content with the performance of the 39-year-old president, while 54 said they were not. A mere 5 percent stated that they were “very happy” with Macron’s first 100 days in office, while 28 percent said they were “very unhappy.”</p>
<p>Having been swept into office on a broad platform, Macron’s popularity is fraying around the edges of the electorate. Twelve percent of left voters – mostly communists – endorse his performance, as do 9 percent of National Front voters, while he has the backing of 39 percent of Socialist Party supporters, and 40 percent among right-wing Republicans.</p>
<p>Indeed, only supporters of his own En Marche! Movement rate his performance as a net positive – three-quarters of them feel Macron is doing a good job.</p>
<p>The trend also does not make for good reading – Macron’s approval ratings in the same poll stood at 43 percent in late June, and 36 percent in early August.</p>
<p>Read more</p>
<p><a href="https://www.rt.com/viral/398806-petition-against-brigitte-macron-first-lady-180000-signatures/" type="external" /></p>
<p>Comparisons show that support has dwindled particularly precipitously&#160;among left-wing voters, likely due to imminent budget cuts and work code reforms announced by the president, whose party has a majority in the country’s legislative assembly. In contrast, the latest polls show that he has recovered some confidence among the right, though not enough to compensate for losses elsewhere.</p>
<p>Once regarded as fresh-faced and blessed with an aura of success, Macron has recently attracted media criticism for supposed glibness, high-handedness and vanity, including a widely-circulated story that he has spent €26,000 on make-up for public appearances since taking office, following his victory over Marine Le Pen in May.</p>
<p>But the YouGov poll, which surveyed a total of 1,003 people on August 28 and 29, showed that his government, assembled from politicians from across the political spectrum, is also thought to be performing well by just 29 percent of voters, and badly by 57 percent.</p>
<p>Asked to respond to previous poor polls in an interview with Le Point last week, Macron complained that he has “to live with people’s impatience for the next few months.” He also publicly declared last month that the French people “hate reforms,” but promised to stick with his course of “transformation.”</p>
<p /> | 599,193 |
<p>Pedro Portal/ZUMA; Louise Wateridge/ZUMA</p>
<p />
<p>The time has finally come: After a grueling campaign summer, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump will share a stage on Monday night for the first presidential debate. Moderator Lester Holt of NBC News has announced the three topics for the debate: America’s Direction, Achieving Prosperity, and Securing America. That tells us nothing about the types of questions he plans to ask. So we thought we’d supply a list of questions that we’d like to hear him ask the two candidates when they convene at Hofstra University on Long Island at 9 p.m. ET on Monday.</p>
<p>For Trump:</p>
<p>– Vladimir Putin, whom you have <a href="http://www.politico.com/story/2015/12/trump-praises-putin-216929" type="external">praised</a> as a “strong leader” and a better one than President Barack Obama, has subjected protesters to forced labor and jail time, cracked down on internet freedom, and targeted the LGBT community. Journalists and political opponents of Putin have been murdered. Is this your definition of strong leadership?</p>
<p>– As president, would you lift US sanctions imposed on Russia following its annexation of Crimea?</p>
<p>– Your charitable organization, the Trump Foundation, recently paid a penalty to the IRS for an illegal five-figure donation to Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, whose office was considering investigating Trump University. And recent Washington Post stories reveal how you’ve used the foundation for your own personal benefit, such as buying a <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/a-clue-to-the-whereabouts-of-the-6-foot-tall-portrait-of-donald-trump/2016/09/14/ae65db82-7a8f-11e6-ac8e-cf8e0dd91dc7_story.html" type="external">six-foot-tall portrait of yourself</a>, and to <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/trump-used-258000-from-his-charity-to-settle-legal-problems/2016/09/20/adc88f9c-7d11-11e6-ac8e-cf8e0dd91dc7_story.html" type="external">cover your own personal financial obligations</a>, perhaps in violation of federal law. You have called the Clinton Foundation a pay-to-play criminal enterprise that must be shut down. So what will happen to the Trump Foundation if you are elected?</p>
<p>– In January you said you would turn your company—which has deep business relationships with companies and financiers in China, Russia, Turkey, India, and elsewhere—over to your children to run if you were elected president. Previous presidents have put their assets in a blind trust to avoid even the appearance of conflicts of interest. But that’s not possible in this instance. So how can you deal with other countries when your family business has its own, and perhaps competing, interests in these nations?</p>
<p>– You <a href="" type="internal">owe Deutsche Bank hundreds of millions of dollars</a> at the same time that US regulators are seeking a $14 billion payment from the bank for its contribution to the financial crisis. How could you pursue the Justice Department’s action against Deutsche Bank fairly and dispassionately when you’re so indebted to it?</p>
<p>– A policy posted on your website calls for a complete indefinite ban on Muslims entering the United States. How do you tell if someone is a Muslim?</p>
<p>– Numerous terrorism experts have said your extreme rhetoric and proposals regarding Muslims hurt counterterrorism efforts by alienating Muslims at home and abroad who are necessary to the fight against ISIS, and that they help ISIS recruit supporters by allowing it to argue that the United States is targeting the Muslim religion. Do you really know more about this matter than all these experts?</p>
<p>– You also said you know more about ISIS than the generals. Do you actually believe that? Can you tell us how many troops ISIS has, where its strongholds are, who make up its top command, and what the best locations are to mount military attacks against ISIS targets?</p>
<p>– Why do you keep insisting you were against the war in Iraq when you’re on the public record supporting the invasion before the war? Have you been lying about this?</p>
<p>– If elected, you have promised to renegotiate the United States’ debt. This is a strategy that’s possible in business, but many economists believe it would raise the cost of future borrowing and bring financial ruin to the country and the world economy. Are all the economists wrong?</p>
<p>– You say you want to reach out to African American voters. So why then did you call for a return to stop-and-frisk, a policy that has disproportionately affected African Americans and Latinos and that was ruled unconstitutional by a federal judge?</p>
<p>– You blamed Hillary Clinton for starting the Barack Obama birther conspiracy; virtually every fact-checker has deemed that a lie. You also claimed that you put the matter to rest by forcing the president to release his long-form birth certificate. So why, for years afterward, did you continue to question whether he was born in the United States? And why did you say your investigators in Hawaii found material that supposedly supported your birther claims?</p>
<p>– In recent years, you’ve repeatedly promoted other conspiracy theories: that Ted Cruz’s father played a role in the JFK assassination, that vaccines cause autism, that Obama was a founder of ISIS. Why do you keep making these bizarre claims?</p>
<p>– You’ve had the vocal support of white supremacists like David Duke and leaders of the alt-right movement, and at times you and your advisers have retweeted their incendiary tweets. You also appeared on Alex Jones’ talk show and called him “amazing.” Jones is a 9/11 truther who has suggested that the Sandy Hook massacre never happened and that the government is <a href="http://www.rawstory.com/2015/09/forget-his-911-truther-tirades-here-are-7-of-alex-jones-most-unhinged-conspiracy-theories/" type="external">deliberately</a> turning kids gay by sneaking estrogen into juice boxes. Will you take this opportunity to renounce all these folks and say you don’t welcome the support of racists and other extremists?</p>
<p>– You have made illegal immigration a top issue. Yet your modeling agency recruited models <a href="" type="internal">who worked in the United States without the right immigration papers</a>. Isn’t that hypocrisy?</p>
<p>– You often say you hire only the “best people,” yet you have gone through multiple campaign managers in less than a year. Did you not hire the “best people”? Why should voters believe that you would do better with important positions in your administration?</p>
<p>– In a <a href="" type="internal">2007 deposition</a>, you said under oath that you have never associated with anyone you knew to be affiliated with organized crime. Yet in the early 1980s you leased property for an Atlantic City casino from two men linked to the Mafia. And in 1999, you told the Associated Press, “I build buildings. I have to deal with the unions, the mob, some of the roughest men you’ve ever seen in your life.” So did you lie during that deposition?</p>
<p>– After the mass shooting in Orlando, you said LGBT Americans should vote for you and that your proposed ban on immigration from certain countries would protect LGBT people. But you have appeared at several events organized by anti-LGBT organizations, declared your support for the North Carolina bathroom bill, and proposed possible Supreme Court nominees who oppose LGBT rights. So why should any LGBT person take you seriously?</p>
<p>– In a 2015 interview, you <a href="" type="internal">said</a>, “The problem we have right now—we have a society that sits back and says we don’t have to do anything. Eventually, the 50 percent cannot carry—and it’s unfair to them—but cannot carry the other 50 percent.” This suggests you share the view that Mitt Romney expressed in 2012: that 47 percent of Americans are freeloaders who won’t take responsibility for their own lives. Isn’t that insulting to half of Americans?</p>
<p>– You say you’re under audit so you can’t release your tax returns. That didn’t stop Richard Nixon. But would you allow a neutral third party to review your tax forms from the past 10 years and release publicly your income, your income sources, your effective tax rate, and your charitable contributions?</p>
<p>– Hillary and Bill Clinton <a href="http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/03/17/the-wedding-that-explains-the-election.html" type="external">attended your third wedding</a>. Why did you invite them? Did you like them personally at the time?</p>
<p>– On many occasions you have <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/2016/06/01/donald-trump-lawsuits-legal-battles/84995854/" type="external">failed to pay contractors</a>—often small businesses—who have done work for you and your properties. Earlier this year, before she was working for you, your current campaign manager, Kellyanne Conway, <a href="http://mediamatters.org/research/2016/08/19/here-s-how-trump-s-new-campaign-manager-attacked-him-cable-news-pundit/212524" type="external">said</a> of you, “He says he’s for the little guy, but he’s actually built a lot of his businesses on the backs of the little guy…through not paying contractors after you’ve built something. The little guys have suffered.” How can voters be assured that if elected you will care about working men and women?</p>
<p>– You had to pay a $750,000 fine when the Justice Department charged you with violating Wall Street trading rules. The Securities and Exchange Commission cited your company for issuing inaccurate earnings information. The Federal Election Commission fined you for exceeding the annual limit on campaign contributions. The New York State lobbying commission imposed a $250,000 fine on you for failing to disclose the full extent of your lobbying of state legislators. Should people call you Crooked Donald?</p>
<p>For Clinton:</p>
<p>– You <a href="http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/clinton-us-should-use-military-response-fight-cyberattacks-russia-china-1579187" type="external">said</a> recently that the United States should consider a “military response” to the hacking conducted by other nations. What do you have in mind? And could the US government ever conclusively identify those responsible for any given attack?</p>
<p>– Is it still possible to defeat ISIS and Syrian President Bashar Assad at the same time? How would your anti-ISIS policy differ from what President Obama has been doing?</p>
<p>– Obama campaigned in 2008 on bridging the partisan divide. Now things are more polarized than ever. Why do you think you can work better and more productively with Republicans in Congress than Obama has?</p>
<p>– You have claimed that you used a private email server for convenience. But a report by the State Department’s inspector general found that in 2010 you told an aide who suggested you use a department email that “I don’t want any risk of the personal being accessible.” Did you use your private server merely for convenience, or were you trying to avoid having to comply with public records laws that might compel you to release information you did not want the public to see?</p>
<p>– Last year, you suggested that Black Lives Matter activists propose clear policy ideas instead of only protesting. In August, a collective of activists released “A Vision for Black Lives,” a document outlining policies that could be enacted to help black America. Have you looked at that document? Would you work to enact any of the policy proposals offered by the activists?</p>
<p>– Why have you repeatedly praised Henry Kissinger, whose underhanded and covert diplomacy <a href="" type="internal">led to brutal massacres</a> around the globe, including in Chile, Argentina, East Timor, and Bangladesh?</p>
<p>– With competition falling on the Affordable Care Act marketplaces, some Democrats in Congress are calling for the public option—a policy that you have said you support. But health care reform is a hard sell on Capitol Hill, as you know from your own experience in the 1990s. Would you make the public option a priority as president?</p>
<p>– You’ve announced steps to distance yourself from the Clinton Foundation should you become president. But was it a mistake for the foundation to accept large donations from foreign individuals and entities while you were in charge of US foreign policy and would soon run for the presidency? Are people wrong to wonder if contributors to the foundation were trying to win favor with you and you might be more amenable to their requests and preferences?</p>
<p>– Would you consider it unseemly for four of the past five presidents to come from two families? What does this say about the United States and its political system?</p>
<p>– It took you more than eight months this year to hold your first press conference. Why did you hide for so long from the reporters who cover you the most? Don’t you think the public deserves to have its politicians vigorously questioned by the press?</p>
<p>– As secretary of state, you served as something of a <a href="" type="internal">global fracking evangelist</a>. What would you say to Americans whose neighborhoods have suffered <a href="" type="internal">drinking-water contamination</a> and <a href="" type="internal">earthquakes</a> as a result of fracking?</p>
<p>– Do you think it’s not too late to stop global warming? Can major climate initiatives be undertaken by executive order, or will you need to win the cooperation of Congress?</p>
<p>– You and your husband have earned tens of millions of dollars giving paid speeches, including to various Wall Street and big finance firms. In one case, your husband pocketed $250,000 for <a href="" type="internal">speaking to a so-called vulture fund</a> that has purchased companies, saddled them with debt, and laid off employees to extract the maximum profits. Why should Americans believe you will rein in Wall Street abuses or that you have their economic interests at heart?</p>
<p>– You served in the US Senate for eight years. Donald Trump says the political system is rigged—and that he has benefited by buying influence with lobbyists and contributions. In your time in the Senate, did you see evidence that legislators are indeed influenced by big-money interests and contributors? Can you give examples?</p>
<p>– You <a href="http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/03/17/the-wedding-that-explains-the-election.html" type="external">attended Donald Trump’s third wedding</a>. Why? Did you like him personally? And why do you think he invited you and your husband?</p>
<p /> | Here’s What the Moderator Should Ask Clinton and Trump at Their First Debate | true | https://motherjones.com/politics/2016/09/debate-questions-donald-trump-hillary-clinton-moderator/ | 2016-09-23 | 4left
| Here’s What the Moderator Should Ask Clinton and Trump at Their First Debate
<p>Pedro Portal/ZUMA; Louise Wateridge/ZUMA</p>
<p />
<p>The time has finally come: After a grueling campaign summer, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump will share a stage on Monday night for the first presidential debate. Moderator Lester Holt of NBC News has announced the three topics for the debate: America’s Direction, Achieving Prosperity, and Securing America. That tells us nothing about the types of questions he plans to ask. So we thought we’d supply a list of questions that we’d like to hear him ask the two candidates when they convene at Hofstra University on Long Island at 9 p.m. ET on Monday.</p>
<p>For Trump:</p>
<p>– Vladimir Putin, whom you have <a href="http://www.politico.com/story/2015/12/trump-praises-putin-216929" type="external">praised</a> as a “strong leader” and a better one than President Barack Obama, has subjected protesters to forced labor and jail time, cracked down on internet freedom, and targeted the LGBT community. Journalists and political opponents of Putin have been murdered. Is this your definition of strong leadership?</p>
<p>– As president, would you lift US sanctions imposed on Russia following its annexation of Crimea?</p>
<p>– Your charitable organization, the Trump Foundation, recently paid a penalty to the IRS for an illegal five-figure donation to Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi, whose office was considering investigating Trump University. And recent Washington Post stories reveal how you’ve used the foundation for your own personal benefit, such as buying a <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/a-clue-to-the-whereabouts-of-the-6-foot-tall-portrait-of-donald-trump/2016/09/14/ae65db82-7a8f-11e6-ac8e-cf8e0dd91dc7_story.html" type="external">six-foot-tall portrait of yourself</a>, and to <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/trump-used-258000-from-his-charity-to-settle-legal-problems/2016/09/20/adc88f9c-7d11-11e6-ac8e-cf8e0dd91dc7_story.html" type="external">cover your own personal financial obligations</a>, perhaps in violation of federal law. You have called the Clinton Foundation a pay-to-play criminal enterprise that must be shut down. So what will happen to the Trump Foundation if you are elected?</p>
<p>– In January you said you would turn your company—which has deep business relationships with companies and financiers in China, Russia, Turkey, India, and elsewhere—over to your children to run if you were elected president. Previous presidents have put their assets in a blind trust to avoid even the appearance of conflicts of interest. But that’s not possible in this instance. So how can you deal with other countries when your family business has its own, and perhaps competing, interests in these nations?</p>
<p>– You <a href="" type="internal">owe Deutsche Bank hundreds of millions of dollars</a> at the same time that US regulators are seeking a $14 billion payment from the bank for its contribution to the financial crisis. How could you pursue the Justice Department’s action against Deutsche Bank fairly and dispassionately when you’re so indebted to it?</p>
<p>– A policy posted on your website calls for a complete indefinite ban on Muslims entering the United States. How do you tell if someone is a Muslim?</p>
<p>– Numerous terrorism experts have said your extreme rhetoric and proposals regarding Muslims hurt counterterrorism efforts by alienating Muslims at home and abroad who are necessary to the fight against ISIS, and that they help ISIS recruit supporters by allowing it to argue that the United States is targeting the Muslim religion. Do you really know more about this matter than all these experts?</p>
<p>– You also said you know more about ISIS than the generals. Do you actually believe that? Can you tell us how many troops ISIS has, where its strongholds are, who make up its top command, and what the best locations are to mount military attacks against ISIS targets?</p>
<p>– Why do you keep insisting you were against the war in Iraq when you’re on the public record supporting the invasion before the war? Have you been lying about this?</p>
<p>– If elected, you have promised to renegotiate the United States’ debt. This is a strategy that’s possible in business, but many economists believe it would raise the cost of future borrowing and bring financial ruin to the country and the world economy. Are all the economists wrong?</p>
<p>– You say you want to reach out to African American voters. So why then did you call for a return to stop-and-frisk, a policy that has disproportionately affected African Americans and Latinos and that was ruled unconstitutional by a federal judge?</p>
<p>– You blamed Hillary Clinton for starting the Barack Obama birther conspiracy; virtually every fact-checker has deemed that a lie. You also claimed that you put the matter to rest by forcing the president to release his long-form birth certificate. So why, for years afterward, did you continue to question whether he was born in the United States? And why did you say your investigators in Hawaii found material that supposedly supported your birther claims?</p>
<p>– In recent years, you’ve repeatedly promoted other conspiracy theories: that Ted Cruz’s father played a role in the JFK assassination, that vaccines cause autism, that Obama was a founder of ISIS. Why do you keep making these bizarre claims?</p>
<p>– You’ve had the vocal support of white supremacists like David Duke and leaders of the alt-right movement, and at times you and your advisers have retweeted their incendiary tweets. You also appeared on Alex Jones’ talk show and called him “amazing.” Jones is a 9/11 truther who has suggested that the Sandy Hook massacre never happened and that the government is <a href="http://www.rawstory.com/2015/09/forget-his-911-truther-tirades-here-are-7-of-alex-jones-most-unhinged-conspiracy-theories/" type="external">deliberately</a> turning kids gay by sneaking estrogen into juice boxes. Will you take this opportunity to renounce all these folks and say you don’t welcome the support of racists and other extremists?</p>
<p>– You have made illegal immigration a top issue. Yet your modeling agency recruited models <a href="" type="internal">who worked in the United States without the right immigration papers</a>. Isn’t that hypocrisy?</p>
<p>– You often say you hire only the “best people,” yet you have gone through multiple campaign managers in less than a year. Did you not hire the “best people”? Why should voters believe that you would do better with important positions in your administration?</p>
<p>– In a <a href="" type="internal">2007 deposition</a>, you said under oath that you have never associated with anyone you knew to be affiliated with organized crime. Yet in the early 1980s you leased property for an Atlantic City casino from two men linked to the Mafia. And in 1999, you told the Associated Press, “I build buildings. I have to deal with the unions, the mob, some of the roughest men you’ve ever seen in your life.” So did you lie during that deposition?</p>
<p>– After the mass shooting in Orlando, you said LGBT Americans should vote for you and that your proposed ban on immigration from certain countries would protect LGBT people. But you have appeared at several events organized by anti-LGBT organizations, declared your support for the North Carolina bathroom bill, and proposed possible Supreme Court nominees who oppose LGBT rights. So why should any LGBT person take you seriously?</p>
<p>– In a 2015 interview, you <a href="" type="internal">said</a>, “The problem we have right now—we have a society that sits back and says we don’t have to do anything. Eventually, the 50 percent cannot carry—and it’s unfair to them—but cannot carry the other 50 percent.” This suggests you share the view that Mitt Romney expressed in 2012: that 47 percent of Americans are freeloaders who won’t take responsibility for their own lives. Isn’t that insulting to half of Americans?</p>
<p>– You say you’re under audit so you can’t release your tax returns. That didn’t stop Richard Nixon. But would you allow a neutral third party to review your tax forms from the past 10 years and release publicly your income, your income sources, your effective tax rate, and your charitable contributions?</p>
<p>– Hillary and Bill Clinton <a href="http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/03/17/the-wedding-that-explains-the-election.html" type="external">attended your third wedding</a>. Why did you invite them? Did you like them personally at the time?</p>
<p>– On many occasions you have <a href="http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/politics/elections/2016/06/01/donald-trump-lawsuits-legal-battles/84995854/" type="external">failed to pay contractors</a>—often small businesses—who have done work for you and your properties. Earlier this year, before she was working for you, your current campaign manager, Kellyanne Conway, <a href="http://mediamatters.org/research/2016/08/19/here-s-how-trump-s-new-campaign-manager-attacked-him-cable-news-pundit/212524" type="external">said</a> of you, “He says he’s for the little guy, but he’s actually built a lot of his businesses on the backs of the little guy…through not paying contractors after you’ve built something. The little guys have suffered.” How can voters be assured that if elected you will care about working men and women?</p>
<p>– You had to pay a $750,000 fine when the Justice Department charged you with violating Wall Street trading rules. The Securities and Exchange Commission cited your company for issuing inaccurate earnings information. The Federal Election Commission fined you for exceeding the annual limit on campaign contributions. The New York State lobbying commission imposed a $250,000 fine on you for failing to disclose the full extent of your lobbying of state legislators. Should people call you Crooked Donald?</p>
<p>For Clinton:</p>
<p>– You <a href="http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/clinton-us-should-use-military-response-fight-cyberattacks-russia-china-1579187" type="external">said</a> recently that the United States should consider a “military response” to the hacking conducted by other nations. What do you have in mind? And could the US government ever conclusively identify those responsible for any given attack?</p>
<p>– Is it still possible to defeat ISIS and Syrian President Bashar Assad at the same time? How would your anti-ISIS policy differ from what President Obama has been doing?</p>
<p>– Obama campaigned in 2008 on bridging the partisan divide. Now things are more polarized than ever. Why do you think you can work better and more productively with Republicans in Congress than Obama has?</p>
<p>– You have claimed that you used a private email server for convenience. But a report by the State Department’s inspector general found that in 2010 you told an aide who suggested you use a department email that “I don’t want any risk of the personal being accessible.” Did you use your private server merely for convenience, or were you trying to avoid having to comply with public records laws that might compel you to release information you did not want the public to see?</p>
<p>– Last year, you suggested that Black Lives Matter activists propose clear policy ideas instead of only protesting. In August, a collective of activists released “A Vision for Black Lives,” a document outlining policies that could be enacted to help black America. Have you looked at that document? Would you work to enact any of the policy proposals offered by the activists?</p>
<p>– Why have you repeatedly praised Henry Kissinger, whose underhanded and covert diplomacy <a href="" type="internal">led to brutal massacres</a> around the globe, including in Chile, Argentina, East Timor, and Bangladesh?</p>
<p>– With competition falling on the Affordable Care Act marketplaces, some Democrats in Congress are calling for the public option—a policy that you have said you support. But health care reform is a hard sell on Capitol Hill, as you know from your own experience in the 1990s. Would you make the public option a priority as president?</p>
<p>– You’ve announced steps to distance yourself from the Clinton Foundation should you become president. But was it a mistake for the foundation to accept large donations from foreign individuals and entities while you were in charge of US foreign policy and would soon run for the presidency? Are people wrong to wonder if contributors to the foundation were trying to win favor with you and you might be more amenable to their requests and preferences?</p>
<p>– Would you consider it unseemly for four of the past five presidents to come from two families? What does this say about the United States and its political system?</p>
<p>– It took you more than eight months this year to hold your first press conference. Why did you hide for so long from the reporters who cover you the most? Don’t you think the public deserves to have its politicians vigorously questioned by the press?</p>
<p>– As secretary of state, you served as something of a <a href="" type="internal">global fracking evangelist</a>. What would you say to Americans whose neighborhoods have suffered <a href="" type="internal">drinking-water contamination</a> and <a href="" type="internal">earthquakes</a> as a result of fracking?</p>
<p>– Do you think it’s not too late to stop global warming? Can major climate initiatives be undertaken by executive order, or will you need to win the cooperation of Congress?</p>
<p>– You and your husband have earned tens of millions of dollars giving paid speeches, including to various Wall Street and big finance firms. In one case, your husband pocketed $250,000 for <a href="" type="internal">speaking to a so-called vulture fund</a> that has purchased companies, saddled them with debt, and laid off employees to extract the maximum profits. Why should Americans believe you will rein in Wall Street abuses or that you have their economic interests at heart?</p>
<p>– You served in the US Senate for eight years. Donald Trump says the political system is rigged—and that he has benefited by buying influence with lobbyists and contributions. In your time in the Senate, did you see evidence that legislators are indeed influenced by big-money interests and contributors? Can you give examples?</p>
<p>– You <a href="http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2016/03/17/the-wedding-that-explains-the-election.html" type="external">attended Donald Trump’s third wedding</a>. Why? Did you like him personally? And why do you think he invited you and your husband?</p>
<p /> | 599,194 |
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>Colony collapse disorder sounds so elementally human. A recent 60 Minutes segment featured the disappearing bees. Too bad bees can’t talk.</p>
<p>Come back, bees! You’re part of the hive that humans have made of the planet. I was thinking about bees last night, driving and at the same time looking at my brightly lit, new cell phone named for a fruiting tree pollinated by bees.</p>
<p>One of the theories, unproven!, is that a new class of pesticides has simply knocked the bees and their exquisite navigation system off kilter. Sounded good enough for me.</p>
<p>I’ve had it with corporations whose products are so woven into my habits of consumption and so destructive, the dissonance makes me feel like I’m driving on a dark road and reading a cell phone screen at the same time.</p>
<p>Of course, there are plenty of powerful people who take the opposite point of view: that the only way society can organize is by doing so many things at once that the fruits of our labor create wealth far in excess of whatever costs are incurred.</p>
<p>One of the interesting features of the IPhone is that it continually searches for WiFi connections and tells you s much earnestly, its tiny machine heart burning hotly in the quest to latch onto the nearest and best carrier of information that I need, or not, as the case may be.</p>
<p>So as I’m driving–now scrolling through messages from Nigerian widows, from Saks Fifth Avenue Men’s Department, invitations from political parties and foam parties–I notice how many WiFi locations want to mate with my phone.</p>
<p>Hundreds of millions of people, maybe even billions, are piling similar tiny electronic pulses, each with a unique identifier into the world faster than snowflakes melting.</p>
<p>So, what if I were a bee and I navigated from far-flung flowering trees and plants to my queen and hive, back and forth, communicating with my bee brothers and sisters what’s up, and what if by coincidence I helped to pollinate 1/3rd of the food supply of humans, and what if cellular communication scrambled my exquisite sense of vibration to the point that I disappear and take 1/3rd of the human food supply with me?</p>
<p>How would we, humans, account for that cost?</p>
<p>What if we discovered cell phones are chasing bees from the planet? What if our impact wasn’t just bees, but other species that singly or in combination make our own survival possible?</p>
<p>If we had to choose between cell phones and bees, what would we do?</p>
<p>I posit this question in the cheerful spirit that it may never need answering exactly as posed, and yet it is precisely the order of inquiry that smashes the notion of we can just somehow slide by the impacts of global warming, without modifying our patterns of consumption in any substantive way.</p>
<p>The opposing perspective was neatly articulated in the Sunday New York Times, in an interview with John Bolton, the controversial former UN Ambassador and neoconservative mad dog, ” even if there is global warming, the notion that you are going to reduce carbon emissions enough to have an impact on it is just-serious people don’t believe that’s true.”</p>
<p>Serious people? Really? The kind of serious people who sold American taxpayers on a trillion dollar war in Iraq based on an informant named Curveball, who was lying just to secure his green card to Germany? Those kinds of serious people, Mr. Bolton?</p>
<p>Mr. Bolton and his posse are of the Manichean world-view that evil reigns: there is no power or wealth but that which can be nailed down, here and now.</p>
<p>Americans may choose to lie, cheat and starve before banning any other form of consumption that has been deemed to be a prerogative of economic organization: building tract housing in wetlands, organizing transportation around gas-guzzling SUV’s, you name it-but saying so, doesn’t line me up with John Bolton.</p>
<p>Mr. Bolton’s posse will be heading for the hills, soon, to rally for another turn at the wheel.</p>
<p>The bees can’t tell us what is stressing them. We can’t adapt to what is stressing us, even though our ability to communicate is limitless.</p>
<p>But a growing number of our kind is angry as bees.</p>
<p>ALAN FARAGO of Coral Gables, who writes about the environment and the politics of South Florida, can be reached at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" type="external">[email protected]</a>.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p> | To Bee or Not to Bee? | true | https://counterpunch.org/2007/11/07/to-bee-or-not-to-bee/ | 2007-11-07 | 4left
| To Bee or Not to Bee?
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>Colony collapse disorder sounds so elementally human. A recent 60 Minutes segment featured the disappearing bees. Too bad bees can’t talk.</p>
<p>Come back, bees! You’re part of the hive that humans have made of the planet. I was thinking about bees last night, driving and at the same time looking at my brightly lit, new cell phone named for a fruiting tree pollinated by bees.</p>
<p>One of the theories, unproven!, is that a new class of pesticides has simply knocked the bees and their exquisite navigation system off kilter. Sounded good enough for me.</p>
<p>I’ve had it with corporations whose products are so woven into my habits of consumption and so destructive, the dissonance makes me feel like I’m driving on a dark road and reading a cell phone screen at the same time.</p>
<p>Of course, there are plenty of powerful people who take the opposite point of view: that the only way society can organize is by doing so many things at once that the fruits of our labor create wealth far in excess of whatever costs are incurred.</p>
<p>One of the interesting features of the IPhone is that it continually searches for WiFi connections and tells you s much earnestly, its tiny machine heart burning hotly in the quest to latch onto the nearest and best carrier of information that I need, or not, as the case may be.</p>
<p>So as I’m driving–now scrolling through messages from Nigerian widows, from Saks Fifth Avenue Men’s Department, invitations from political parties and foam parties–I notice how many WiFi locations want to mate with my phone.</p>
<p>Hundreds of millions of people, maybe even billions, are piling similar tiny electronic pulses, each with a unique identifier into the world faster than snowflakes melting.</p>
<p>So, what if I were a bee and I navigated from far-flung flowering trees and plants to my queen and hive, back and forth, communicating with my bee brothers and sisters what’s up, and what if by coincidence I helped to pollinate 1/3rd of the food supply of humans, and what if cellular communication scrambled my exquisite sense of vibration to the point that I disappear and take 1/3rd of the human food supply with me?</p>
<p>How would we, humans, account for that cost?</p>
<p>What if we discovered cell phones are chasing bees from the planet? What if our impact wasn’t just bees, but other species that singly or in combination make our own survival possible?</p>
<p>If we had to choose between cell phones and bees, what would we do?</p>
<p>I posit this question in the cheerful spirit that it may never need answering exactly as posed, and yet it is precisely the order of inquiry that smashes the notion of we can just somehow slide by the impacts of global warming, without modifying our patterns of consumption in any substantive way.</p>
<p>The opposing perspective was neatly articulated in the Sunday New York Times, in an interview with John Bolton, the controversial former UN Ambassador and neoconservative mad dog, ” even if there is global warming, the notion that you are going to reduce carbon emissions enough to have an impact on it is just-serious people don’t believe that’s true.”</p>
<p>Serious people? Really? The kind of serious people who sold American taxpayers on a trillion dollar war in Iraq based on an informant named Curveball, who was lying just to secure his green card to Germany? Those kinds of serious people, Mr. Bolton?</p>
<p>Mr. Bolton and his posse are of the Manichean world-view that evil reigns: there is no power or wealth but that which can be nailed down, here and now.</p>
<p>Americans may choose to lie, cheat and starve before banning any other form of consumption that has been deemed to be a prerogative of economic organization: building tract housing in wetlands, organizing transportation around gas-guzzling SUV’s, you name it-but saying so, doesn’t line me up with John Bolton.</p>
<p>Mr. Bolton’s posse will be heading for the hills, soon, to rally for another turn at the wheel.</p>
<p>The bees can’t tell us what is stressing them. We can’t adapt to what is stressing us, even though our ability to communicate is limitless.</p>
<p>But a growing number of our kind is angry as bees.</p>
<p>ALAN FARAGO of Coral Gables, who writes about the environment and the politics of South Florida, can be reached at <a href="mailto:[email protected]" type="external">[email protected]</a>.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>&#160;</p> | 599,195 |
<p>BOSTON (AP) — American Airlines says a mechanical issue has forced a plane to return to the gate at Boston’s Logan Airport, and four people have been taken to hospitals to be evaluated.</p>
<p>WCVB-TV <a href="http://www.wcvb.com/article/4-people-taken-to-hospital-from-american-airlines-flight/14526699" type="external">reports</a> the airline says passengers reported an odor in the cabin Monday before the plane was scheduled to leave Boston. It was headed to Charlotte.</p>
<p>Officials say the plane returned to the gate and three crew members and a passenger were taken to hospitals.</p>
<p>The Massachusetts Port Authority confirmed that four people were transported.</p>
<p>The airline says the plane was taken out of service because of a mechanical issue and the passengers would be transported on a different plane.</p>
<p>BOSTON (AP) — American Airlines says a mechanical issue has forced a plane to return to the gate at Boston’s Logan Airport, and four people have been taken to hospitals to be evaluated.</p>
<p>WCVB-TV <a href="http://www.wcvb.com/article/4-people-taken-to-hospital-from-american-airlines-flight/14526699" type="external">reports</a> the airline says passengers reported an odor in the cabin Monday before the plane was scheduled to leave Boston. It was headed to Charlotte.</p>
<p>Officials say the plane returned to the gate and three crew members and a passenger were taken to hospitals.</p>
<p>The Massachusetts Port Authority confirmed that four people were transported.</p>
<p>The airline says the plane was taken out of service because of a mechanical issue and the passengers would be transported on a different plane.</p> | Airline: Mechanical issue on plane sends 4 to hospital | false | https://apnews.com/c34707d5b0704af193e413d7dfc638f1 | 2018-01-01 | 2least
| Airline: Mechanical issue on plane sends 4 to hospital
<p>BOSTON (AP) — American Airlines says a mechanical issue has forced a plane to return to the gate at Boston’s Logan Airport, and four people have been taken to hospitals to be evaluated.</p>
<p>WCVB-TV <a href="http://www.wcvb.com/article/4-people-taken-to-hospital-from-american-airlines-flight/14526699" type="external">reports</a> the airline says passengers reported an odor in the cabin Monday before the plane was scheduled to leave Boston. It was headed to Charlotte.</p>
<p>Officials say the plane returned to the gate and three crew members and a passenger were taken to hospitals.</p>
<p>The Massachusetts Port Authority confirmed that four people were transported.</p>
<p>The airline says the plane was taken out of service because of a mechanical issue and the passengers would be transported on a different plane.</p>
<p>BOSTON (AP) — American Airlines says a mechanical issue has forced a plane to return to the gate at Boston’s Logan Airport, and four people have been taken to hospitals to be evaluated.</p>
<p>WCVB-TV <a href="http://www.wcvb.com/article/4-people-taken-to-hospital-from-american-airlines-flight/14526699" type="external">reports</a> the airline says passengers reported an odor in the cabin Monday before the plane was scheduled to leave Boston. It was headed to Charlotte.</p>
<p>Officials say the plane returned to the gate and three crew members and a passenger were taken to hospitals.</p>
<p>The Massachusetts Port Authority confirmed that four people were transported.</p>
<p>The airline says the plane was taken out of service because of a mechanical issue and the passengers would be transported on a different plane.</p> | 599,196 |
<p />
<p>A white guy opens fire and the liberal press is literally trampling themselves in order to paint the assailant as a right wing, anti abortion extremist. &#160;They’ll go so far as to even invent stories to fit their narrative. &#160;Such as with the recent shooting in Colorado by Robert Lewis Dear.</p>
<p>Liberal media outlets like CNN immediately&#160;reported that Dear was against abortion and levied his attack on the Planned Parenthood clinic in some right wing extremist measure. &#160;A claim echoed by Obama Administration water bearer&#160;U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch.</p>
<p>Of course, the truth of the matter was that the shooting went down at the Chase Bank that just happened to be NEAR the Planned Parenthood Clinic. &#160;I guess when it comes to&#160;liberals, close is all that counts when they can exploit tragedy to fit their narrative.</p>
<p>Yet, while they’ll make ridiculous jumps and connections that are not based in reality when the shooter is white, they will metaphorically break their spines bending over backwards to avoid saying that 3 Muslims who killed 14 people and wounded another 17 at a Christmas party in California are terrorist Muslims.</p>
<p>The government and the Obama administration are complicit in this politically correct farce as nearly a day after the fact, with 2 Muslim terrorist extremists dead and witnesses pouring in saying that this was motivated by jihad, the FBI is only “looking into the possibility it was a terrorist attack” while the Obama administration remains silent but to say “it is POSSIBLE” that the shooting may have been terrorist related.</p>
<p>No doubt, just like Benghazi, the White House is looking for ways to blame some American for this attack so that we might “understand” how Muslim terrorists are really the victims. &#160;We’ll see if the administration gets another obscure youtube video to take the blame again.</p>
<p>And let us not forget that this act of terrorism happened in the gun control utopia of coastal&#160;California, just west of Los Angeles. &#160;Looks like it worked out just like gun controllers always hoped. &#160;Because apparently it would be racist to kill the Islamic terrorist and it is better to be disarmed and thereby murdered more easily than be viewed as intolerant to Muslims.</p>
<p>That notion would be humorous if it wasn’t true. &#160;The actions of Rizwan Farook and Tashfeen Malik prior to their terrorist rampage did not go unnoticed by neighbors.</p>
<p>A man who has been working in the area said he noticed a half-dozen Middle Eastern men in the area in recent weeks, but decided not to report anything since he did not wish to racially profile those people.</p>
<p>“We&#160;sat around lunch thinking, ‘What were they doing around the neighborhood?’” he said. &#160;“We’d see them leave where they’re raiding the apartment.”</p>
<p>Yep, best not to appear like you are profiling the Arab Muslim terrorist cell&#160;because they might be, oh i don’t know, an&#160;Arab Muslim terrorist cell.</p>
<p>So not only is gun control costing the lives of innocent people in California, but so is Political Correctness.</p>
<p>Isn’t that just lovely. &#160;Its also the Liberal way, so that is why they try so hard to silence the truth when it does not help promote their agenda.</p>
<p>If the Obama administration was serious about protecting American lives, then they would abandon their quest to disarm law abiding citizens and would also call Muslim Terrorist attacks MUSLIM TERRORIST ATTACKS.</p>
<p>Woefully, I tell you now that, President Obama does NOT care about protecting American lives, he will keep trying to appease our enemies, because they are OUR enemies and not HIS enemies. &#160;He will let undocumented foreigners continue to flow into this country, he will keep trying to strip the right of self defense away from American citizens and if we, as a people, don’t like it…well, apparently we are intolerant, xenophobic racists who cling to our guns and our bibles.</p>
<p>Hmmm…that sounds familiar…oh yeah, Obama has been saying that since 2008.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p />
<p />
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>We have no tolerance for comments containing violence, racism, vulgarity, profanity, all caps, or discourteous behavior. Thank you for partnering with us to maintain a courteous and useful public environment where we can engage in reasonable discourse.</p> | CA Mass Shooting, Why can’t liberals call it what it is: A Muslim TERRORIST Attack | true | http://bulletsfirst.net/2015/12/03/ca-mass-shooting-why-cant-liberals-call-it-what-it-is-a-muslim-terrorist-attack/ | 0right
| CA Mass Shooting, Why can’t liberals call it what it is: A Muslim TERRORIST Attack
<p />
<p>A white guy opens fire and the liberal press is literally trampling themselves in order to paint the assailant as a right wing, anti abortion extremist. &#160;They’ll go so far as to even invent stories to fit their narrative. &#160;Such as with the recent shooting in Colorado by Robert Lewis Dear.</p>
<p>Liberal media outlets like CNN immediately&#160;reported that Dear was against abortion and levied his attack on the Planned Parenthood clinic in some right wing extremist measure. &#160;A claim echoed by Obama Administration water bearer&#160;U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch.</p>
<p>Of course, the truth of the matter was that the shooting went down at the Chase Bank that just happened to be NEAR the Planned Parenthood Clinic. &#160;I guess when it comes to&#160;liberals, close is all that counts when they can exploit tragedy to fit their narrative.</p>
<p>Yet, while they’ll make ridiculous jumps and connections that are not based in reality when the shooter is white, they will metaphorically break their spines bending over backwards to avoid saying that 3 Muslims who killed 14 people and wounded another 17 at a Christmas party in California are terrorist Muslims.</p>
<p>The government and the Obama administration are complicit in this politically correct farce as nearly a day after the fact, with 2 Muslim terrorist extremists dead and witnesses pouring in saying that this was motivated by jihad, the FBI is only “looking into the possibility it was a terrorist attack” while the Obama administration remains silent but to say “it is POSSIBLE” that the shooting may have been terrorist related.</p>
<p>No doubt, just like Benghazi, the White House is looking for ways to blame some American for this attack so that we might “understand” how Muslim terrorists are really the victims. &#160;We’ll see if the administration gets another obscure youtube video to take the blame again.</p>
<p>And let us not forget that this act of terrorism happened in the gun control utopia of coastal&#160;California, just west of Los Angeles. &#160;Looks like it worked out just like gun controllers always hoped. &#160;Because apparently it would be racist to kill the Islamic terrorist and it is better to be disarmed and thereby murdered more easily than be viewed as intolerant to Muslims.</p>
<p>That notion would be humorous if it wasn’t true. &#160;The actions of Rizwan Farook and Tashfeen Malik prior to their terrorist rampage did not go unnoticed by neighbors.</p>
<p>A man who has been working in the area said he noticed a half-dozen Middle Eastern men in the area in recent weeks, but decided not to report anything since he did not wish to racially profile those people.</p>
<p>“We&#160;sat around lunch thinking, ‘What were they doing around the neighborhood?’” he said. &#160;“We’d see them leave where they’re raiding the apartment.”</p>
<p>Yep, best not to appear like you are profiling the Arab Muslim terrorist cell&#160;because they might be, oh i don’t know, an&#160;Arab Muslim terrorist cell.</p>
<p>So not only is gun control costing the lives of innocent people in California, but so is Political Correctness.</p>
<p>Isn’t that just lovely. &#160;Its also the Liberal way, so that is why they try so hard to silence the truth when it does not help promote their agenda.</p>
<p>If the Obama administration was serious about protecting American lives, then they would abandon their quest to disarm law abiding citizens and would also call Muslim Terrorist attacks MUSLIM TERRORIST ATTACKS.</p>
<p>Woefully, I tell you now that, President Obama does NOT care about protecting American lives, he will keep trying to appease our enemies, because they are OUR enemies and not HIS enemies. &#160;He will let undocumented foreigners continue to flow into this country, he will keep trying to strip the right of self defense away from American citizens and if we, as a people, don’t like it…well, apparently we are intolerant, xenophobic racists who cling to our guns and our bibles.</p>
<p>Hmmm…that sounds familiar…oh yeah, Obama has been saying that since 2008.</p>
<p>&#160;</p>
<p />
<p />
<p>&#160;</p>
<p>We have no tolerance for comments containing violence, racism, vulgarity, profanity, all caps, or discourteous behavior. Thank you for partnering with us to maintain a courteous and useful public environment where we can engage in reasonable discourse.</p> | 599,197 |
|
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>Pence’s ascension is in line with a recent trend toward influential vice presidents and appears similar to the last vice president who was handed the keys to a presidential transition: Dick Cheney.</p>
<p>As the nation was embroiled in the recount after the 2000 election, George W. Bush informally entrusted Cheney to begin building the government even before the outcome was settled in favor of the Republican ticket. Some of the work was done sitting around Cheney’s kitchen table in McLean, Virginia, remembered Ari Fleischer, who became Bush’s first press secretary.</p>
<p>“This is a big test for Pence,” Fleischer told The Associated Press. “If it goes well, it will portend a bigger job for him in the White House.”</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Cheney clearly passed that test and became one of the most powerful vice presidents in recent memory, particularly during Bush’s first term. Cheney not only ran Bush’s vice presidential search team — eventually picking himself — he stocked the administration with veteran Republicans, many of whom he had known for years.</p>
<p>“The vice president was so influential he barely spoke in meetings because he knew he would see the president alone and could convey his thoughts privately,” said Fleischer. “Only the truly powerful can be that silent. And when he did talk, it was pretty impactful.”</p>
<p>It is far too soon to say if Pence will have a similar voice in Trump’s White House, but naming him the chairman of the transition team broadcasts to others in Washington that he will be a key player.</p>
<p>“If you’re given an important role in the transition, it sends a signal to other people that you matter,” said Joel K. Goldstein, a law professor at St. Louis University who is widely considered one of the nation’s leading experts on the sometimes obscure history of the vice presidency. “Other political actors want to deal with you due to your perceived access and influence to the president.”</p>
<p>It also gives the vice president a chance to put his own stamp on the administration. While Trump ran as a political outsider and was not shy in burning bridges to establishment Washington, Pence is a popular GOP figure who may opt to select longtime allies for key roles.</p>
<p>“Those who get new jobs may feel beholden to the vice president and feel responsive to him,” said Goldstein. “It’s a way of guaranteeing a degree of loyalty.”</p>
<p>Unlike Bush and Cheney, who were friends for years, or Bill Clinton and Al Gore, who were both of the same generation of moderate Southern Democrats, Trump and Pence did not have much of a relationship before the celebrity businessman selected the Indiana governor to be his running mate. Trump then waffled, having second thoughts about the choice and asking aides if he could replace him.</p>
<p>But those close to Trump say he and Pence, a dyed-in-the-wool social conservative who also served in Congress, have forged a friendship and there is little doubt that the selection of the Indiana governor — as opposed to embattled New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie — sent a reassuring signal to some mainstream Republicans who previously been ill at ease about the incendiary nominee. Pence’s closing argument was that it was time “for Republicans to come home” and Trump won a higher percentage of Republican votes than his opponent Hillary Clinton did from Democrats, according to exit polls.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>There has also been speculation that Trump would view the presidency as a CEO role and delegate some of the decision-making elsewhere. Aides to Ohio Gov. John Kasich said that Trump’s eldest son had suggested over the summer that the future vice-president would do much of the heavy lifting on both foreign and domestic policy while Trump would be in charge of “Making America Great Again,” a claim the Trump camp later denied.</p>
<p>It seems likely that Pence will play a key role. For decades, vice-presidents were mere window dressing, given largely ceremonial tasks and left out of key decisions. That changed in 1976 when Jimmy Carter elevated Walter Mondale’s role — Mondale also ran the transition — and vice-presidents since have large staffs, are often placed in charge of key administrative priorities and frequently become the administration’s liaison to Capitol Hill.</p>
<p>President Barack Obama tasked Vice President Joe Biden with several administration priorities, including its recent anti-cancer “moonshot,” and considers his running mate one of his closest friends.</p>
<p>“Trump has learned to trust Pence and Pence has years of experience in Congress,” said Larry Sabato, head of the University of Virginia’s Center for Politics. “I think it’s dawning on Trump that he’s now got enormous responsibilities and needs the help of every experienced, competent person he can find.”</p>
<p>____</p>
<p>Reach Lemire on Twitter at <a href="http://twitter.com/@JonLemire" type="external">http://twitter.com/@JonLemire</a></p> | Pence’s transition job could signal key role in White House | false | https://abqjournal.com/888204/pences-transition-job-could-signal-key-role-in-white-house.html | 2016-11-13 | 2least
| Pence’s transition job could signal key role in White House
<p>.......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... .......... ..........</p>
<p />
<p>Pence’s ascension is in line with a recent trend toward influential vice presidents and appears similar to the last vice president who was handed the keys to a presidential transition: Dick Cheney.</p>
<p>As the nation was embroiled in the recount after the 2000 election, George W. Bush informally entrusted Cheney to begin building the government even before the outcome was settled in favor of the Republican ticket. Some of the work was done sitting around Cheney’s kitchen table in McLean, Virginia, remembered Ari Fleischer, who became Bush’s first press secretary.</p>
<p>“This is a big test for Pence,” Fleischer told The Associated Press. “If it goes well, it will portend a bigger job for him in the White House.”</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>Cheney clearly passed that test and became one of the most powerful vice presidents in recent memory, particularly during Bush’s first term. Cheney not only ran Bush’s vice presidential search team — eventually picking himself — he stocked the administration with veteran Republicans, many of whom he had known for years.</p>
<p>“The vice president was so influential he barely spoke in meetings because he knew he would see the president alone and could convey his thoughts privately,” said Fleischer. “Only the truly powerful can be that silent. And when he did talk, it was pretty impactful.”</p>
<p>It is far too soon to say if Pence will have a similar voice in Trump’s White House, but naming him the chairman of the transition team broadcasts to others in Washington that he will be a key player.</p>
<p>“If you’re given an important role in the transition, it sends a signal to other people that you matter,” said Joel K. Goldstein, a law professor at St. Louis University who is widely considered one of the nation’s leading experts on the sometimes obscure history of the vice presidency. “Other political actors want to deal with you due to your perceived access and influence to the president.”</p>
<p>It also gives the vice president a chance to put his own stamp on the administration. While Trump ran as a political outsider and was not shy in burning bridges to establishment Washington, Pence is a popular GOP figure who may opt to select longtime allies for key roles.</p>
<p>“Those who get new jobs may feel beholden to the vice president and feel responsive to him,” said Goldstein. “It’s a way of guaranteeing a degree of loyalty.”</p>
<p>Unlike Bush and Cheney, who were friends for years, or Bill Clinton and Al Gore, who were both of the same generation of moderate Southern Democrats, Trump and Pence did not have much of a relationship before the celebrity businessman selected the Indiana governor to be his running mate. Trump then waffled, having second thoughts about the choice and asking aides if he could replace him.</p>
<p>But those close to Trump say he and Pence, a dyed-in-the-wool social conservative who also served in Congress, have forged a friendship and there is little doubt that the selection of the Indiana governor — as opposed to embattled New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie — sent a reassuring signal to some mainstream Republicans who previously been ill at ease about the incendiary nominee. Pence’s closing argument was that it was time “for Republicans to come home” and Trump won a higher percentage of Republican votes than his opponent Hillary Clinton did from Democrats, according to exit polls.</p>
<p>ADVERTISEMENT</p>
<p>There has also been speculation that Trump would view the presidency as a CEO role and delegate some of the decision-making elsewhere. Aides to Ohio Gov. John Kasich said that Trump’s eldest son had suggested over the summer that the future vice-president would do much of the heavy lifting on both foreign and domestic policy while Trump would be in charge of “Making America Great Again,” a claim the Trump camp later denied.</p>
<p>It seems likely that Pence will play a key role. For decades, vice-presidents were mere window dressing, given largely ceremonial tasks and left out of key decisions. That changed in 1976 when Jimmy Carter elevated Walter Mondale’s role — Mondale also ran the transition — and vice-presidents since have large staffs, are often placed in charge of key administrative priorities and frequently become the administration’s liaison to Capitol Hill.</p>
<p>President Barack Obama tasked Vice President Joe Biden with several administration priorities, including its recent anti-cancer “moonshot,” and considers his running mate one of his closest friends.</p>
<p>“Trump has learned to trust Pence and Pence has years of experience in Congress,” said Larry Sabato, head of the University of Virginia’s Center for Politics. “I think it’s dawning on Trump that he’s now got enormous responsibilities and needs the help of every experienced, competent person he can find.”</p>
<p>____</p>
<p>Reach Lemire on Twitter at <a href="http://twitter.com/@JonLemire" type="external">http://twitter.com/@JonLemire</a></p> | 599,198 |
<p />
<p>Puerto&#160;Rico's Government Development Bank doesn't plan to make most of a $422 million debt payment due Monday, a step that could move the island's financial crisis to a new level.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>"Faced with the inability to meet the demands of our creditors and the needs of our people, I had to make a choice," Gov. Alejandro Garcia Padilla said in a speech Sunday night, according to an English translation of the remarks. He said making the payment would divert money needed for crucial health and public-safety services.</p>
<p>A law enacted by&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's government in April empowers Mr. Garcia Padilla to suspend debt payments to pay for essential services as the U.S. commonwealth awaits help from Congress. Some of&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's creditors have criticized the law, saying the government won't commit to necessary financial changes and hasn't made a good-faith effort at a consensual restructuring.</p>
<p>Expectations of a GDB default were already high ahead of the governor's speech. The GDB had $562 million available for paying debt as of April 1, according to the government.</p>
<p>A GDB default will likely spark lawsuits from creditors. Last month, a group of hedge funds that own GDB bonds filed a complaint in federal court asking that the GDB be barred from allowing the withdrawal of funds.</p>
<p>Puerto&#160;Rico owes investors about $70 billion in total and is reeling from 10 years of economic stagnation and population decline. The island began defaulting on debt in August, but there have so far been no defaults by the GDB, which provides liquidity to&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's government agencies.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>A GDB default could escalate&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's crisis because the GDB plays such an essential role in keeping cash flowing on the island, said Matt Fabian, a partner at Municipal Market Analytics.</p>
<p>"This is where&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's unwinding begins," he said in an interview Sunday night. "This is the beginning of the real crisis."</p>
<p>The GDB reached an agreement late Friday with&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's state-chartered credit unions to exchange $33 million worth of debt due Monday for $33 million of debt due a year from now. The other $389 million is still due Monday.</p>
<p>Negotiations continue in Washington over a plan to tackle&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's debt crisis. Unlike some distressed American governments,&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico cannot declare bankruptcy under federal law. Congress held a hearing last month on bipartisan legislation that would allow the commonwealth to seek a restructuring of its debt.</p>
<p>In his Sunday night speech, Mr. Garcia Padilla urged action by Congress. "Only a congressionally approved restructuring process can provide a comprehensive solution," he said, according to the English translation.</p>
<p>A GDB default might add pressure to the discussions in Washington in the months leading up to&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's next major debt payment of nearly $2 billion in July. Some of that debt carries some of the commonwealth's strongest legal pledges.</p>
<p>Some&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico general- obligation bonds maturing in 2035 traded at about 65 cents on the dollar Friday, according to the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board's Electronic Municipal Market Access website.</p>
<p>Write to Heather Gillers at [email protected]</p> | Puerto Rico Bank Won't Make Most of Payment | true | http://foxbusiness.com/markets/2016/05/02/puerto-rico-bank-wont-make-most-payment.html | 2016-07-06 | 0right
| Puerto Rico Bank Won't Make Most of Payment
<p />
<p>Puerto&#160;Rico's Government Development Bank doesn't plan to make most of a $422 million debt payment due Monday, a step that could move the island's financial crisis to a new level.</p>
<p>Continue Reading Below</p>
<p>"Faced with the inability to meet the demands of our creditors and the needs of our people, I had to make a choice," Gov. Alejandro Garcia Padilla said in a speech Sunday night, according to an English translation of the remarks. He said making the payment would divert money needed for crucial health and public-safety services.</p>
<p>A law enacted by&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's government in April empowers Mr. Garcia Padilla to suspend debt payments to pay for essential services as the U.S. commonwealth awaits help from Congress. Some of&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's creditors have criticized the law, saying the government won't commit to necessary financial changes and hasn't made a good-faith effort at a consensual restructuring.</p>
<p>Expectations of a GDB default were already high ahead of the governor's speech. The GDB had $562 million available for paying debt as of April 1, according to the government.</p>
<p>A GDB default will likely spark lawsuits from creditors. Last month, a group of hedge funds that own GDB bonds filed a complaint in federal court asking that the GDB be barred from allowing the withdrawal of funds.</p>
<p>Puerto&#160;Rico owes investors about $70 billion in total and is reeling from 10 years of economic stagnation and population decline. The island began defaulting on debt in August, but there have so far been no defaults by the GDB, which provides liquidity to&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's government agencies.</p>
<p>Advertisement</p>
<p>A GDB default could escalate&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's crisis because the GDB plays such an essential role in keeping cash flowing on the island, said Matt Fabian, a partner at Municipal Market Analytics.</p>
<p>"This is where&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's unwinding begins," he said in an interview Sunday night. "This is the beginning of the real crisis."</p>
<p>The GDB reached an agreement late Friday with&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's state-chartered credit unions to exchange $33 million worth of debt due Monday for $33 million of debt due a year from now. The other $389 million is still due Monday.</p>
<p>Negotiations continue in Washington over a plan to tackle&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's debt crisis. Unlike some distressed American governments,&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico cannot declare bankruptcy under federal law. Congress held a hearing last month on bipartisan legislation that would allow the commonwealth to seek a restructuring of its debt.</p>
<p>In his Sunday night speech, Mr. Garcia Padilla urged action by Congress. "Only a congressionally approved restructuring process can provide a comprehensive solution," he said, according to the English translation.</p>
<p>A GDB default might add pressure to the discussions in Washington in the months leading up to&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico's next major debt payment of nearly $2 billion in July. Some of that debt carries some of the commonwealth's strongest legal pledges.</p>
<p>Some&#160;Puerto&#160;Rico general- obligation bonds maturing in 2035 traded at about 65 cents on the dollar Friday, according to the Municipal Securities Rulemaking Board's Electronic Municipal Market Access website.</p>
<p>Write to Heather Gillers at [email protected]</p> | 599,199 |
Subsets and Splits
No community queries yet
The top public SQL queries from the community will appear here once available.