New trend? Chinese migrant workers in Africa marry black women: "Over the weekend I stumbled across an interesting article on The Atlantic about Chinese workers in Africa marrying 'locals.' The article, 'Chinese Workers in Africa Who Marry Locals Face Puzzled Reception at Home,' was based on a post on the site ChinaSmack that wondered if these new marriages could be the key to solving the gender imbalances in China.
Because boys are lauded in Chinese culture and because families are limited to only one child per household, men far outnumber women in China. One of the many problems this creates manifests itself in dating and marriage. Some estimate that for every 100 Chinese women, there are 110 Chinese men, which leaves many men uncoupled and unmarried. And apparently, Chinese workers in Africa are finding ways to level the playing field."
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Two by two: A real-life Noah’s Ark | The Upshot Yahoo! News
Two by two: A real-life Noah’s Ark | The Upshot Yahoo! News: "An hour outside of Amsterdam in Dordrecht, Netherlands, a ship is under construction. But this ain't your typical sailboat, bub. Johan Huibers is building a full-scale replica of Noah's ark.
Yes, that Noah's ark. And Johan, an expert builder, isn't skimping on the details. The ship, which he's been constructing for the past three years, is built to biblical specs. Johan culled information on the ark's size and shape directly from the good book. In the end, the ship is four stories high and the length of a football field. And yes, it's seaworthy.
The result is an incredibly impressive ship, especially considering it was realized simply by a man with a dream--or, perhaps, a nightmare. According to an interview with NBC's 'The Today Show,' Johan dreamt that Holland suffered a great flood. The next morning, he woke up determined to start preparing for that worst-case scenario."
Yes, that Noah's ark. And Johan, an expert builder, isn't skimping on the details. The ship, which he's been constructing for the past three years, is built to biblical specs. Johan culled information on the ark's size and shape directly from the good book. In the end, the ship is four stories high and the length of a football field. And yes, it's seaworthy.
The result is an incredibly impressive ship, especially considering it was realized simply by a man with a dream--or, perhaps, a nightmare. According to an interview with NBC's 'The Today Show,' Johan dreamt that Holland suffered a great flood. The next morning, he woke up determined to start preparing for that worst-case scenario."
Michelle Malkin » Terror in the Beltway update: Would-be Pentagon bomber reportedly linked to military target shootings
Michelle Malkin » Terror in the Beltway update: Would-be Pentagon bomber reportedly linked to military target shootings: "Last fall, I spotlighted several terrifying shooting incidents at D.C.-area Marine buildings and military installations (see here and here). Shots were fired at the Marine Corps Museum in D.C., the Pentagon, a vacant Marine Corps recruiting station in Chantilly, Va, and a Coast Guard recruiting station in Woodbridge, VA.
The shootings remained unsolved…until now, it seems.
NBC-DC reports that the incidents have been tied to Ethiopian-born Marine reservist Yonathan Melaku, who was arrested last week near the Pentagon. InsideNoVa.com has the scoop:"
The shootings remained unsolved…until now, it seems.
NBC-DC reports that the incidents have been tied to Ethiopian-born Marine reservist Yonathan Melaku, who was arrested last week near the Pentagon. InsideNoVa.com has the scoop:"
Overhead Bin - What will get you kicked off US Airways? Saggy pants or underpants?
Overhead Bin - What will get you kicked off US Airways? Saggy pants or underpants?: "US Airways has acknowledged that less than a week before having a college student arrested for allegedly refusing to hike up his saggy pants while boarding, the airline allowed a man wearing little more than women’s underwear, black thigh-high stockings and heels to fly.
On June 16, University of New Mexico football player Deshon Marman was removed from a US Airways flight at San Francisco International Airport and arrested for refusing to follow crew members’ requests to hike up his saggy pants.
At the time, an airline spokesperson said that while the airline “does not have a specific dress code …we do ask that our passengers dress in an appropriate manner to ensure the safety and comfort of all of our passengers.”"
On June 16, University of New Mexico football player Deshon Marman was removed from a US Airways flight at San Francisco International Airport and arrested for refusing to follow crew members’ requests to hike up his saggy pants.
At the time, an airline spokesperson said that while the airline “does not have a specific dress code …we do ask that our passengers dress in an appropriate manner to ensure the safety and comfort of all of our passengers.”"
Ga. Puts Probationers to Work Harvesting Crops
Ga. Puts Probationers to Work Harvesting Crops: "LESLIE, Ga. — It's 3:25 p.m. in a dusty cucumber field in south Georgia. A knot of criminal offenders who spent seven hours in the sun harvesting buckets of vegetables by hand have decided they're calling it quits — exactly as crew leader Benito Mendez predicted in the morning.
Unless the cucumbers come off the vine soon, they will become engorged with seeds, making them unsellable. Mendez's crew of Mexican and Guatemalan workers will keep harvesting until 6 p.m., maybe longer. Not so for the men participating in a new state-run program aimed at replacing the Latino migrants Georgia farmers say they've lost to a new immigration crackdown with unemployed probationers."
Unless the cucumbers come off the vine soon, they will become engorged with seeds, making them unsellable. Mendez's crew of Mexican and Guatemalan workers will keep harvesting until 6 p.m., maybe longer. Not so for the men participating in a new state-run program aimed at replacing the Latino migrants Georgia farmers say they've lost to a new immigration crackdown with unemployed probationers."
Ex-D.C. journalist says he's an illegal immigrant - WTOP.com
Ex-D.C. journalist says he's an illegal immigrant - WTOP.com: "WASHINGTON - A Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist who covered presidential politics and the 2007 Virginia Tech shootings in a high-profile reporting job at The Washington Post is going on network television to announce he is an illegal immigrant.
Jose Antonio Vargas tells ABC News he is outing himself as one of millions of illegal U.S. immigrants after living with the secret for years. He says he wants to push Congress to pass a bill called the DREAM Act that would allow people like himself who came to this country as children to become citizens.
Vargas says his mother took him to the airport in the Philippines when he was 12 and sent him to California to live with his grandparents.
Vargas was not immediately available for comment."
Jose Antonio Vargas tells ABC News he is outing himself as one of millions of illegal U.S. immigrants after living with the secret for years. He says he wants to push Congress to pass a bill called the DREAM Act that would allow people like himself who came to this country as children to become citizens.
Vargas says his mother took him to the airport in the Philippines when he was 12 and sent him to California to live with his grandparents.
Vargas was not immediately available for comment."
Planned Parenthood stops seeing Medicaid patients - Yahoo! News
Planned Parenthood stops seeing Medicaid patients - Yahoo! News: "INDIANAPOLIS – Thousands of low-income Planned Parenthood of Indiana patients were left fending for themselves Tuesday to pay for birth control, breast exams, Pap tests and other medical services while a court battle continued over a new state law that eliminated the organization's Medicaid funding.
Planned Parenthood began turning away Medicaid patients who couldn't pay for its medical services Tuesday, one day after private donations that had paid those patients' bills ran out.
A state law that took effect May 10 denied Planned Parenthood the Medicaid funds it uses to pay for general health services it provides to low-income women at its 28 Indiana clinics. The group is seeking a preliminary injunction to block Indiana's law, and a ruling is expected by July 1."
Planned Parenthood began turning away Medicaid patients who couldn't pay for its medical services Tuesday, one day after private donations that had paid those patients' bills ran out.
A state law that took effect May 10 denied Planned Parenthood the Medicaid funds it uses to pay for general health services it provides to low-income women at its 28 Indiana clinics. The group is seeking a preliminary injunction to block Indiana's law, and a ruling is expected by July 1."
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
DADT: Michael Barrett, Sergeant Major Of Marine Corps, On Gay Rights
DADT: Michael Barrett, Sergeant Major Of Marine Corps, On Gay Rights: "Get over it.' That's the ultimate message delivered to marines by the top non-commissioned officer of the Marine Corps regarding the repeal of 'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' (DADT).
Sgt. Maj. Micheal Barrett was recently chosen to be the senior enlisted adviser to Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James Amos. According to The Wall Street Journal, Sgt. Maj. Barrett visited a base in South Korea last week, where he delivered his opinions on DADT and the plans to repeal the ban on gay men and lesbians serving openly in the U.S. military.
The Wall Street Journal reports that Sgt. Maj. Barrett brought out a small copy of the Constitution and referenced Article 1, Section 8. “It says, ‘Raise an army.’ It says absolutely nothing about race, color, creed, sexual orientation.” He then asked if everyone in the group joined the Marines to protect their nation, going on to say, “How dare we, then, exclude a group of people who want to do the same thing you do right now, something that is honorable and noble?”"
Sgt. Maj. Micheal Barrett was recently chosen to be the senior enlisted adviser to Marine Corps Commandant Gen. James Amos. According to The Wall Street Journal, Sgt. Maj. Barrett visited a base in South Korea last week, where he delivered his opinions on DADT and the plans to repeal the ban on gay men and lesbians serving openly in the U.S. military.
The Wall Street Journal reports that Sgt. Maj. Barrett brought out a small copy of the Constitution and referenced Article 1, Section 8. “It says, ‘Raise an army.’ It says absolutely nothing about race, color, creed, sexual orientation.” He then asked if everyone in the group joined the Marines to protect their nation, going on to say, “How dare we, then, exclude a group of people who want to do the same thing you do right now, something that is honorable and noble?”"
New Wisconsin Budget Grants Broad Power to Gov. Walker to Remake State Health Programs | The Nation
New Wisconsin Budget Grants Broad Power to Gov. Walker to Remake State Health Programs | The Nation: "Wisconsin governor Scott Walker is set to sign a two-year budget that provides tax breaks for state businesses, individual taxpayers and multi-state corporations yet includes zero state sales or income tax increases, and limits the amount schools and local governments can raise property taxes."
Furthermore, the budget contains deep cuts in education spending, health care and programs for the poor. The state will slash aid to public schools by $800 million over two years, and cut Medicaid by $500 million by increasing co-pays and deductibles. Poor families will see a reduction in their income tax credits if they have two or more children.
Red-blue divide widens on immigration - US news - Christian Science Monitor - msnbc.com
Red-blue divide widens on immigration - US news - Christian Science Monitor - msnbc.com: "ATLANTA — America's red and blue states are increasingly going in exactly opposite directions on the issue of illegal immigration – a testament to how difficult finding middle ground has become on the federal level.
Earlier this month, Alabama followed Georgia and, most famously, Arizona in passing sweeping anti-illegal-immigration legislation. In many respects, Alabama's is the most comprehensive bill of the three, forcing schools to report how much they're spending to educate kids of illegal immigrants, for example."
Earlier this month, Alabama followed Georgia and, most famously, Arizona in passing sweeping anti-illegal-immigration legislation. In many respects, Alabama's is the most comprehensive bill of the three, forcing schools to report how much they're spending to educate kids of illegal immigrants, for example."
Some of Va.’s Brown v. Board college grants go to whites - The Washington Post
Some of Va.’s Brown v. Board college grants go to whites - The Washington Post: "Half a century after many Virginia public schools shut their doors rather than accept black students, the state is offering college scholarships to compensate those whose education suffered in the era of “massive resistance” to desegregation. Among the recipients: white students.
Since 2004, about 70 people have won the scholarships, including a handful of white Virginians whose schooling was disrupted in the late 1950s and early 1960s. A precise count of white scholarship recipients was unavailable, but the total is believed to be fewer than 10. Officials who oversee the state program say they want to spread the word to more white students who might be eligible."
Since 2004, about 70 people have won the scholarships, including a handful of white Virginians whose schooling was disrupted in the late 1950s and early 1960s. A precise count of white scholarship recipients was unavailable, but the total is believed to be fewer than 10. Officials who oversee the state program say they want to spread the word to more white students who might be eligible."
Monday, June 20, 2011
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Top Charge Gone From NYC Terror Plot Case - FoxNews.com
Top Charge Gone From NYC Terror Plot Case - FoxNews.com: "NEW YORK -- The top charge has been dropped against two men accused of plotting to blow up synagogues in New York City.
Ahmed Ferhani and Mohamed Mamdouh pleaded not guilty Wednesday to charges including criminal possession of a weapon as a terror crime.
But a grand jury evidently rejected the initial top charge against them, conspiracy as a terror crime. It carried the potential for life in prison.
The top charge now carries up to 32 years if they're convicted.
Mamdouh's lawyer calls the charges 'significantly' reduced.
Ferhani's lawyer calls the case 'bogus.' She says authorities knew he'd repeatedly been institutionalized for psychiatric problems.
The Manhattan district attorney says the men's intentions amounted to an act of terrorism."
Ahmed Ferhani and Mohamed Mamdouh pleaded not guilty Wednesday to charges including criminal possession of a weapon as a terror crime.
But a grand jury evidently rejected the initial top charge against them, conspiracy as a terror crime. It carried the potential for life in prison.
The top charge now carries up to 32 years if they're convicted.
Mamdouh's lawyer calls the charges 'significantly' reduced.
Ferhani's lawyer calls the case 'bogus.' She says authorities knew he'd repeatedly been institutionalized for psychiatric problems.
The Manhattan district attorney says the men's intentions amounted to an act of terrorism."
Law Enforcement Officials at King Hearing Claim Radical Islam Infiltrating U.S. Prisons - FoxNews.com
Law Enforcement Officials at King Hearing Claim Radical Islam Infiltrating U.S. Prisons - FoxNews.com: "A former New York prisons official testified Wednesday that radical Muslims have made 'sustained efforts' to indoctrinate inmates in America, at the second hearing on Islamic radicalization held by Rep. Peter King.
The first round of King's hearings on domestic threats in March drew passionate protests, and the hearing Wednesday on radicalization in U.S. prisons drew similar objections. Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., the top Democrat on the House Homeland Security Committee, said at the opening of the hearing that the threat of terrorism from U.S. converts in prison is 'small.' "
The first round of King's hearings on domestic threats in March drew passionate protests, and the hearing Wednesday on radicalization in U.S. prisons drew similar objections. Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., the top Democrat on the House Homeland Security Committee, said at the opening of the hearing that the threat of terrorism from U.S. converts in prison is 'small.' "
Hillary Clinton Warns Africa Of 'New Colonialism'
Hillary Clinton Warns Africa Of 'New Colonialism': "DAR ES SALAAM, Tanzania — U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton on Saturday warned of a creeping 'new colonialism' in Africa from foreign investors and governments interested only in extracting natural resources to enrich themselves.
African leaders must ensure that foreign projects are sustainable and benefit all their citizens, not only elites, she said."
African leaders must ensure that foreign projects are sustainable and benefit all their citizens, not only elites, she said."
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
California School District Cancels Fundraiser After Submission of Scripture-Inscribed Bricks - FoxNews.com
California School District Cancels Fundraiser After Submission of Scripture-Inscribed Bricks - FoxNews.com: "A California school district has canceled a fundraising program featuring memorial bricks, scuttling proceeds of $45,000, after two women submitted Bible verses in their tributes.
The two women, Lou Ann Hart and Sheryl Caronna, had filed a court complaint in January against the Desert Sands Unified School District after the district blocked them from placing the Bible verses on bricks to be installed in walkways at Palm Desert High School in Palm Desert, Calif., about 10 miles east of Palm Springs. The women sought an injunction against the district to compel it to allow the scripture bricks.
Instead, school district officials have decided to rescind the fundraiser and refund money of every community group or individual who purchased a memorial brick, according to a court filing last week with the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California."
The two women, Lou Ann Hart and Sheryl Caronna, had filed a court complaint in January against the Desert Sands Unified School District after the district blocked them from placing the Bible verses on bricks to be installed in walkways at Palm Desert High School in Palm Desert, Calif., about 10 miles east of Palm Springs. The women sought an injunction against the district to compel it to allow the scripture bricks.
Instead, school district officials have decided to rescind the fundraiser and refund money of every community group or individual who purchased a memorial brick, according to a court filing last week with the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California."
CNN reporter, briefly in Syria, hears 'horror' stories - CNN.com
CNN reporter, briefly in Syria, hears 'horror' stories - CNN.com: "(CNN) -- As the Syrian military relentlessly advances against protesters, ordinary citizens are fleeing their homes and racing for safety. And they have 'horror story upon horror story,' according to CNN's Arwa Damon.
Despite the Syrian government's consistent refusal to give CNN and other news organizations official permission to enter the country, Damon managed to cross the Turkish border and get into Syria for a few hours Tuesday.
She spoke to people at a muddy makeshift campsite who were using only trees for shelter. One family said they had to spend a whole night on their feet because of the muddy conditions.
A number of people witnessed bombings around Jisr al-Shugur, the northwestern Syrian city where people have fled as government troops advanced. One man said soldiers shot at him, and a woman said she witnessed death."
Despite the Syrian government's consistent refusal to give CNN and other news organizations official permission to enter the country, Damon managed to cross the Turkish border and get into Syria for a few hours Tuesday.
She spoke to people at a muddy makeshift campsite who were using only trees for shelter. One family said they had to spend a whole night on their feet because of the muddy conditions.
A number of people witnessed bombings around Jisr al-Shugur, the northwestern Syrian city where people have fled as government troops advanced. One man said soldiers shot at him, and a woman said she witnessed death."
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Chris Christie Announces Plan To Privatize New Jersey Public Schools
Chris Christie Announces Plan To Privatize New Jersey Public Schools: "NEW YORK (Reuters) - New Jersey Governor Chris Christie announced a pilot program on Thursday that would allow private companies to run public schools in some of the state's chronically underperforming school districts.
The public-private partnership would authorize school management organizations to operate five schools, and would target some of the 100,000 New Jersey students now enrolled in 200 chronically failing schools, the governor's office said.
The state's teachers union, which has clashed with the Republican governor over cuts to school aid and other issues, said the plan was part of Christie's 'ongoing effort to privatize public education in New Jersey.'"
The public-private partnership would authorize school management organizations to operate five schools, and would target some of the 100,000 New Jersey students now enrolled in 200 chronically failing schools, the governor's office said.
The state's teachers union, which has clashed with the Republican governor over cuts to school aid and other issues, said the plan was part of Christie's 'ongoing effort to privatize public education in New Jersey.'"
New Delhi 'Slut Walk' Brings Global Sexual Violence Protest Phenomenon To India
New Delhi 'Slut Walk' Brings Global Sexual Violence Protest Phenomenon To India: "India's most dangerous city for women will be the setting for the nation's first 'Slut Walk,' the latest such display in what has become a global phenomenon to protest sexual violence.
As the AFP is reporting, scantily-clad women will take to the streets of New Delhi, a city of 16 million residents, where a woman is allegedly raped every 18 hours or molested every 14 hours. Inspired by the original Toronto-based Slutwalk, New Delhi's colorful June 25 display will join similar protests which have taken place around the world, including in the U.S., the Middle East and Europe."
As the AFP is reporting, scantily-clad women will take to the streets of New Delhi, a city of 16 million residents, where a woman is allegedly raped every 18 hours or molested every 14 hours. Inspired by the original Toronto-based Slutwalk, New Delhi's colorful June 25 display will join similar protests which have taken place around the world, including in the U.S., the Middle East and Europe."
Friday, June 10, 2011
Hike Naked: Germany Opens New Nude-Friendly Nature Trails - Yahoo! News
Hike Naked: Germany Opens New Nude-Friendly Nature Trails - Yahoo! News: "When 'Germany's first hiking trail for nudists' opened on May 29, 2010 near the town of Dankerode, enthusiasm was running high - and not just among those who enjoy braving nature in the buff. Mayor Monika Rauhut hailed the trail as 'the latest attraction here in beautiful Wippertal.' (See 8 new natural wonders of the world.)
The trail was an instant hit, which got us to wondering if such a thing might be a good idea in Switzerland, where the issue of nude hiking will soon be taken up by the Supreme Court. The 'unofficial spokesperson' for Swiss lovers of the outdoor activity isn't so sure. But Puistola GrottenpÖsch (not his real name) does see some upsides. A sanctioned trail would give many people an opportunity to experience the 'bodily freedom' that only hiking in the nude offers - an experience that 'fills you with happiness,' he says."
The trail was an instant hit, which got us to wondering if such a thing might be a good idea in Switzerland, where the issue of nude hiking will soon be taken up by the Supreme Court. The 'unofficial spokesperson' for Swiss lovers of the outdoor activity isn't so sure. But Puistola GrottenpÖsch (not his real name) does see some upsides. A sanctioned trail would give many people an opportunity to experience the 'bodily freedom' that only hiking in the nude offers - an experience that 'fills you with happiness,' he says."
South Beach 'B-Girls' admit guilt in booze scam - Yahoo! News
South Beach 'B-Girls' admit guilt in booze scam - Yahoo! News: "MIAMI – Two Eastern European women employed as so-called 'B-Girls' in an alleged scam to fleece male tourists in South Beach pleaded guilty Wednesday to immigration fraud charges and agreed to testify against the others involved.
Anastassia Mikrukova, 24, of Estonia and 23-year-old Agnese Rudaka of Latvia became the first of 17 people charged in the case to plead guilty. They face a maximum of five years in prison when they are sentenced Aug. 31, but because of their early pleas and agreements to cooperate they will likely get less than a year.
The two appeared in court Wednesday wearing shackles and baggy beige prison garb, each wearing their hair in a tight ponytail braid. They spoke in Russian with the help of an interpreter only to answer questions from U.S. District Judge Jose E. Martinez."
Anastassia Mikrukova, 24, of Estonia and 23-year-old Agnese Rudaka of Latvia became the first of 17 people charged in the case to plead guilty. They face a maximum of five years in prison when they are sentenced Aug. 31, but because of their early pleas and agreements to cooperate they will likely get less than a year.
The two appeared in court Wednesday wearing shackles and baggy beige prison garb, each wearing their hair in a tight ponytail braid. They spoke in Russian with the help of an interpreter only to answer questions from U.S. District Judge Jose E. Martinez."
The two appeared in court Wednesday wearing shackles and baggy beige prison garb, each wearing their hair in a tight ponytail braid. They spoke in Russian with the help of an interpreter only to answer questions from U.S. District Judge Jose E. Martinez.
Federal prosecutors say the two women were part of a group of "B-Girls" — short for "Bar Girls" — imported from Russia and Eastern Europe who prowled legitimate South Beach nightclubs looking for wealthy male tourists. The men were invited to supposedly exclusive clubs and plied with liquor and champagne for which they were charged exorbitant amounts — in some cases, tens of thousands of dollars.
The clubs, with names like Caviar Bar, Steel Toast and Tangia Club, existed only for the scam, investigators said.
Prosecutors have identified at least 88 victims. Many got so drunk they didn't realize how much had been charged on their credit cards until much later, according to the FBI. The "B-Girls" generally got to keep 20 percent of what they extracted from their victims.
Mikrukova and Rudaka both pleaded guilty to falsifying documentation that allowed them to travel to the U.S. without a visa. Under this program that affects 36 countries, travelers must come to the U.S. only for tourism and for no more than 90 days.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Boy's body found in 'cult' murder case | abc11.com
Boy's body found in 'cult' murder case | abc11.com: "DURHAM (WTVD) -- Investigators have identified a second set of human remains found Thursday at a home in the 2600 block of Ashe Street as 5-year-old Jadon Higganbothan.
The remains were buried in a plastic bag - the same as the body of a woman found at the same address Wednesday.
Related Photos
Seven charged in cult murder case
View all 35 photos
Now, 27-year-old Peter Moses is charged with murder in both deaths. Six others are also charged in connection with the death of 28-year-old Antoinetta McKoy. Her body was found Wednesday by a plumber working in the backyard of the home.
McKoy and Higganbothan were both last seen alive last year. The Ashe Street home is located a few miles from another home on Pear Tree Lane where McKoy and Higganbothan lived with a cult group known as the 'Black Hebrew Israelites.'
Peter Moses is the suspected cult leader. ABC11 sources confirm the Ashe Street home was once the rental property of Moses' mother."
The remains were buried in a plastic bag - the same as the body of a woman found at the same address Wednesday.
Related Photos
Seven charged in cult murder case
View all 35 photos
Now, 27-year-old Peter Moses is charged with murder in both deaths. Six others are also charged in connection with the death of 28-year-old Antoinetta McKoy. Her body was found Wednesday by a plumber working in the backyard of the home.
McKoy and Higganbothan were both last seen alive last year. The Ashe Street home is located a few miles from another home on Pear Tree Lane where McKoy and Higganbothan lived with a cult group known as the 'Black Hebrew Israelites.'
Peter Moses is the suspected cult leader. ABC11 sources confirm the Ashe Street home was once the rental property of Moses' mother."
Scott Gerber: Entrepreneurial Burnout? 17 Tricks To Get Over The Hump
Scott Gerber: Entrepreneurial Burnout? 17 Tricks To Get Over The Hump: "The following answers are provided by the Young Entrepreneur Council. Founded by Scott Gerber, the Y.E.C. is a nonprofit organization that provides young entrepreneurs with access to tools, mentorship, community and educational resources that support each stage of their business's development and growth. The organization promotes entrepreneurship as a solution to youth unemployment and underemployment."
CIA chief expects Iraq to ask U.S. troops to stay | Reuters
CIA chief expects Iraq to ask U.S. troops to stay | Reuters: "Reuters) - President Barack Obama's pick to lead the Pentagon said on Thursday he expected Iraq to ask Washington 'at some point' to keep some U.S. troops in the country beyond an end-2011 deadline for their withdrawal.
'It's clear to me that Iraq is considering the possibility of making a request for some kind of (troop) presence to remain there,' said Leon Panetta, the outgoing head of the CIA, at a Senate hearing weighing his nomination as U.S. defense secretary.
'I have every confidence that a request like that ... is something I think will be forthcoming at some point.'"
'It's clear to me that Iraq is considering the possibility of making a request for some kind of (troop) presence to remain there,' said Leon Panetta, the outgoing head of the CIA, at a Senate hearing weighing his nomination as U.S. defense secretary.
'I have every confidence that a request like that ... is something I think will be forthcoming at some point.'"
Sexting is Considered Being Unfaithful, But Not Grounds for Divorce, Say Legal Experts - FoxNews.com
Sexting is Considered Being Unfaithful, But Not Grounds for Divorce, Say Legal Experts - FoxNews.com: "New York Democratic Rep. Anthony Weiner's scandalous online dalliances with a string of women – including a porn star he coached to lie – not only places him in hot water with his congressional colleagues, but his history of sexting and phone sex could at least be a contributing factor in a divorce proceeding, if not the primary reason itself, legal experts say.
While most states have a 'no-fault' divorce policy -- meaning that a person wanting a divorce does not have to establish fault – legal experts say they’re seeing an increase in social media issues cited in divorce cases.
If Huma Abedin, Weiner's wife and top political aide to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, were to give the sexting lawmaker the heave-ho, legal experts say it would certainly help her case."
While most states have a 'no-fault' divorce policy -- meaning that a person wanting a divorce does not have to establish fault – legal experts say they’re seeing an increase in social media issues cited in divorce cases.
If Huma Abedin, Weiner's wife and top political aide to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, were to give the sexting lawmaker the heave-ho, legal experts say it would certainly help her case."
The Ultimate Warrior accuses Hulk Hogan of wife-swapping and cocaine use « Entertainment
The Ultimate Warrior accuses Hulk Hogan of wife-swapping and cocaine use « Entertainment: "What is this, 1994?
In a rant that seems out of the WWE’s golden years, wrestler The Ultimate Warrior released a YouTube video accusing his one-time rival Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, of being a cocaine-using, wife-swapping “dope head.”
“You’re a real piece of s___,” an angry, bald Warrior, AKA James Hellwig, directly addressed Hulk Hogan. “What kind of human being are you? The things that have real value mean nothing to you in your life.”
Randy ‘Macho Man’ Savage Dies in Car Accident.
Calling him a “malicious, back-stabbing operator,” Warrior accused Hulk Hogan of having a “long-running reputation for being a liar, a fraud and a phony.”
As music swelled in the background, The Ultimate Warrior called out Hulk Hogan for his “open marriage.”
“You were both whores—neither one of you had a problem with getting thrills on the side,” accused The Warrior. “In fact Terry, you tried to get me to sample those thrills,” adding, “I bet I’m the only guy who said no to doing your wife.”"
In a rant that seems out of the WWE’s golden years, wrestler The Ultimate Warrior released a YouTube video accusing his one-time rival Hulk Hogan, born Terry Bollea, of being a cocaine-using, wife-swapping “dope head.”
“You’re a real piece of s___,” an angry, bald Warrior, AKA James Hellwig, directly addressed Hulk Hogan. “What kind of human being are you? The things that have real value mean nothing to you in your life.”
Randy ‘Macho Man’ Savage Dies in Car Accident.
Calling him a “malicious, back-stabbing operator,” Warrior accused Hulk Hogan of having a “long-running reputation for being a liar, a fraud and a phony.”
As music swelled in the background, The Ultimate Warrior called out Hulk Hogan for his “open marriage.”
“You were both whores—neither one of you had a problem with getting thrills on the side,” accused The Warrior. “In fact Terry, you tried to get me to sample those thrills,” adding, “I bet I’m the only guy who said no to doing your wife.”"
Report: U.S. Steps Up Covert Strikes in Yemen - FoxNews.com
Report: U.S. Steps Up Covert Strikes in Yemen - FoxNews.com: "WASHINGTON -- The Obama administration has intensified the covert U.S. war in Yemen, hitting militant suspects with armed drones and fighter jets, The New York Times reported late Wednesday.
The accelerated campaign has occurred in recent weeks as violent conflict in Yemen has left the government in Sanaa struggling to cling to power, the Times said.
The report, posted on the newspaper's website, said Yemeni troops that had been battling militants linked to Al Qaeda in the south have been pulled back to the capital. American officials hope the strikes will help prevent militants from consolidating power."
The accelerated campaign has occurred in recent weeks as violent conflict in Yemen has left the government in Sanaa struggling to cling to power, the Times said.
The report, posted on the newspaper's website, said Yemeni troops that had been battling militants linked to Al Qaeda in the south have been pulled back to the capital. American officials hope the strikes will help prevent militants from consolidating power."
Jury Sees Photos of Caylee Anthony's Skull - FoxNews.com
Jury Sees Photos of Caylee Anthony's Skull - FoxNews.com: "ORLANDO, FLA. – Casey Anthony cried, dabbed her eyes with a tissue and looked away as pictures of her 2-year-old daughter Caylee's skull were displayed in Florida courtroom Thursday morning.
A few jurors could be seen wiping their faces and others began to glance away as more photos were shown of the December 2008 discovery of the toddler's remains during the 14th day of her mother's murder trial.
Judge Belvin Perry warned people in the courtroom that graphic photos would be shown. He asked anyone who might become queasy to leave during a short recess before prosecutors called a crime scene investigator from the Orange County Sheriff's Office."
A few jurors could be seen wiping their faces and others began to glance away as more photos were shown of the December 2008 discovery of the toddler's remains during the 14th day of her mother's murder trial.
Judge Belvin Perry warned people in the courtroom that graphic photos would be shown. He asked anyone who might become queasy to leave during a short recess before prosecutors called a crime scene investigator from the Orange County Sheriff's Office."
Alabama Immigration Law Signed By Governor Robert Bentley
Alabama Immigration Law Signed By Governor Robert Bentley: "MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Alabama's governor on Thursday signed a tough new illegal immigration crackdown that contains provisions requiring public schools to determine students' immigration status and making it a crime to knowingly give an illegal immigrant a ride.
The bill also allows police to arrest anyone suspected of being an illegal immigrant if they're stopped for any other reason. Alabama employers also are now required to use a federal system called E-Verify to determine if new workers are in the country legally.
Gov. Robert Bentley said the law is the nation's toughest, and groups including the American Civil Liberties Union and the Montgomery-based Southern Poverty Law Center agree. The groups say they plan to challenge it."
The bill also allows police to arrest anyone suspected of being an illegal immigrant if they're stopped for any other reason. Alabama employers also are now required to use a federal system called E-Verify to determine if new workers are in the country legally.
Gov. Robert Bentley said the law is the nation's toughest, and groups including the American Civil Liberties Union and the Montgomery-based Southern Poverty Law Center agree. The groups say they plan to challenge it."
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Sexual Assault Of Journalists: Committee To Protect Journalists' New Report (VIDEO)
Sexual Assault Of Journalists: Committee To Protect Journalists' New Report (VIDEO): "The Committee to Protect Journalists has released a report about what it calls 'the silencing crime': sexual assault against journalists.
The issue of sexual assault was relatively dormant until the assault on CBS reporter Lara Logan in Egypt in February. The attack, and Logan's decision to discuss it openly, prompted an outpouring of commentary about the dangers that correspondents face around the world.
In the report, author Lauren Wolfe talked to over four dozen journalists:"
The issue of sexual assault was relatively dormant until the assault on CBS reporter Lara Logan in Egypt in February. The attack, and Logan's decision to discuss it openly, prompted an outpouring of commentary about the dangers that correspondents face around the world.
In the report, author Lauren Wolfe talked to over four dozen journalists:"
Casey Anthony Trial: Computer Experts Discuss Suspicious Wikipedia Searches
Casey Anthony Trial: Computer Experts Discuss Suspicious Wikipedia Searches: "The bulk of testimony during day 13 of Casey Anthony's first-degree murder trial has centered on forensic searches of computers taken from the Anthony family home; specifically, digital information that allegedly shows someone conducted several suspicious searches on Wikipedia and other sites.
Searched terms included the words 'chloroform,' 'death' and 'internal bleeding.'
John Bradley, owner of SiQuest -- a Canadian software company that developed the program used by the Orange County Sheriff's Office -- testified he was asked to review evidence allegedly found in the internet browsing history of the Anthony family's computer.
Bradley said he confirmed someone had used Google to conduct a search for the keyword 'chloroform' on March 17, 2008. Bradley testified that other searches, conducted at Wikipedia, included 'chloroform,' 'hand to hand combat,' 'inhalation,' 'chest trauma' and 'ruptured spleen.'"
Searched terms included the words 'chloroform,' 'death' and 'internal bleeding.'
John Bradley, owner of SiQuest -- a Canadian software company that developed the program used by the Orange County Sheriff's Office -- testified he was asked to review evidence allegedly found in the internet browsing history of the Anthony family's computer.
Bradley said he confirmed someone had used Google to conduct a search for the keyword 'chloroform' on March 17, 2008. Bradley testified that other searches, conducted at Wikipedia, included 'chloroform,' 'hand to hand combat,' 'inhalation,' 'chest trauma' and 'ruptured spleen.'"
Wikileaks exposes how America still hates on Haiti
Wikileaks exposes how America still hates on Haiti: "In January 2010, all eyes were on Haiti. A massive 7.0-magnitude earthquake rocked the tiny nation, leaving scores of people dead and homeless and nearly the entire country in ruins. The international community rushed to provide aid and offer relief during Haiti's unimaginable crisis.
And as the story was reported around the clock, the refrain repeated by every TV host, journalist, pundit, activist and advocate became 'Haiti is the poorest country in the Western hemisphere.' With four out five people living in poverty, this is true. However, little attention was given to to how Haiti became such a poverty stricken nation. A combination of outlandish and unjust foreign debts, owed mainly to France, and political corruption, chiefly among the Duvalier regimes, have left Haiti's economy ravaged. But even where there has been hope, outside forces have conspired to block much needed progress."
And as the story was reported around the clock, the refrain repeated by every TV host, journalist, pundit, activist and advocate became 'Haiti is the poorest country in the Western hemisphere.' With four out five people living in poverty, this is true. However, little attention was given to to how Haiti became such a poverty stricken nation. A combination of outlandish and unjust foreign debts, owed mainly to France, and political corruption, chiefly among the Duvalier regimes, have left Haiti's economy ravaged. But even where there has been hope, outside forces have conspired to block much needed progress."
Delta boosts bag limit after soldiers complain - Yahoo! News
Delta boosts bag limit after soldiers complain - Yahoo! News: "Reacting to public outcry, Delta says it will allow members of the military to check four bags for free.
The news came after two Army soldiers returning from Afghanistan complained in an online video that Delta charged their unit a total of $2,800 when some of them checked a fourth bag.
Delta Air Lines Inc. has long allowed three checked bags for active duty military members flying in coach, with charges beginning with a fourth bag. The soldiers said their travel orders allowed four bags.
The video of the two soldiers on a flight from Baltimore to Atlanta went viral and put Delta on the defensive. The video had clocked more than 170,000 views on YouTube by midday Wednesday."
The news came after two Army soldiers returning from Afghanistan complained in an online video that Delta charged their unit a total of $2,800 when some of them checked a fourth bag.
Delta Air Lines Inc. has long allowed three checked bags for active duty military members flying in coach, with charges beginning with a fourth bag. The soldiers said their travel orders allowed four bags.
The video of the two soldiers on a flight from Baltimore to Atlanta went viral and put Delta on the defensive. The video had clocked more than 170,000 views on YouTube by midday Wednesday."
Education Department says it doesn’t send SWAT teams after loan defaulters - Yahoo! News
Education Department says it doesn’t send SWAT teams after loan defaulters - Yahoo! News: "A Stockton, Calif., man says a SWAT team broke his door and dragged him out of his house during an unexpected 6 a.m. raid targeting his estranged ex-wife.
Kenneth Wright, who has no criminal record, told ABC News 10 he complained to the local cops about the raid. But according to Wright, the Stockton police denied ordering the raid, saying instead it was the handiwork of the federal Department of Education.
Wright told the station that the Education Department was after unpaid federal loans owed by his ex-wife. 'They busted my door for this,' Wright says. The claim has been repeated by numerous news outlets who picked up the story, which is so popular it appears to have crashed the local station's online story."
Kenneth Wright, who has no criminal record, told ABC News 10 he complained to the local cops about the raid. But according to Wright, the Stockton police denied ordering the raid, saying instead it was the handiwork of the federal Department of Education.
Wright told the station that the Education Department was after unpaid federal loans owed by his ex-wife. 'They busted my door for this,' Wright says. The claim has been repeated by numerous news outlets who picked up the story, which is so popular it appears to have crashed the local station's online story."
car-maintenance-overspending-moneywatch: Personal Finance News from Yahoo! Finance
car-maintenance-overspending-moneywatch: Personal Finance News from Yahoo! Finance: "With gas bills putting a crimp in your budget, you don't want to be wasting money on other car expenses. But many car owners do just that — either spending more than needed on maintenance or putting off work that will cost more later.
To be smart about your car, you need to do the right amount of on-time maintenance — while resisting mechanics' pitches for unnecessary work. 'With advertising that emphasizes maintenance-free cars, people may have the idea they don't have to take care of them,' says George Sadowski, education manager at the Norwood, Mass., campus of Universal Technical Institute, a leading provider of training courses for auto mechanics.
But while neglect doesn't work, neither does overspending. From Sadowski and Michael Calkins, manager of the AAA program that recommends repair shops, here are 10 ways you may be wasting money on your car.
1. Changing oil every 3,000 miles. A relic of a bygone era, this guideline is often promoted by dealers or repair shops eager for business. Instead, read your owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommendation for oil-change intervals — it's often"
To be smart about your car, you need to do the right amount of on-time maintenance — while resisting mechanics' pitches for unnecessary work. 'With advertising that emphasizes maintenance-free cars, people may have the idea they don't have to take care of them,' says George Sadowski, education manager at the Norwood, Mass., campus of Universal Technical Institute, a leading provider of training courses for auto mechanics.
But while neglect doesn't work, neither does overspending. From Sadowski and Michael Calkins, manager of the AAA program that recommends repair shops, here are 10 ways you may be wasting money on your car.
1. Changing oil every 3,000 miles. A relic of a bygone era, this guideline is often promoted by dealers or repair shops eager for business. Instead, read your owner's manual and follow the manufacturer's recommendation for oil-change intervals — it's often"
North Carolina man pleads guilty to terrorism conspiracy - CNN.com
North Carolina man pleads guilty to terrorism conspiracy - CNN.com: "(CNN) -- A North Carolina man could face up to 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to a federal terrorism conspiracy charge, according to prosecutors.
Zakariya Boyd entered a guilty plea on Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Raleigh, North Carolina, the U.S. Attorney's office said in a statement.
Boyd, 22, is one of eight defendants, including his father and brother, who were indicted in 2009 on charges of conspiring to provide money, transportation, training and other resources to jihadist recruits."
Zakariya Boyd entered a guilty plea on Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Raleigh, North Carolina, the U.S. Attorney's office said in a statement.
Boyd, 22, is one of eight defendants, including his father and brother, who were indicted in 2009 on charges of conspiring to provide money, transportation, training and other resources to jihadist recruits."
Audit: Sexual assault incidents within VA system underreported - CNN.com
Audit: Sexual assault incidents within VA system underreported - CNN.com: "Washington (CNN) -- Sexual assault incidents within the Veterans Affairs system are not being reported up the chain, a new government audit released Tuesday found.
The Government Accountability Office (GAO), the investigative arm of Congress, reported that of nearly 300 sexual assault incidents reported to VA Police from January 2007 through July 2010, 'many' were not reported to VA leadership officials and the VA Inspector General's Office.
The GAO report uses the term sexual assault incident to refer to 'suspected, alleged, attempted, or confirmed cases of sexual assault.'
The 284 cases of sexual assault included rape, inappropriate touching, forceful medical examinations, forced or inappropriate oral sex, and other types of sexual assault incidents."
The Government Accountability Office (GAO), the investigative arm of Congress, reported that of nearly 300 sexual assault incidents reported to VA Police from January 2007 through July 2010, 'many' were not reported to VA leadership officials and the VA Inspector General's Office.
The GAO report uses the term sexual assault incident to refer to 'suspected, alleged, attempted, or confirmed cases of sexual assault.'
The 284 cases of sexual assault included rape, inappropriate touching, forceful medical examinations, forced or inappropriate oral sex, and other types of sexual assault incidents."
Delta Charges U.S. Troops Returning From Afghanistan $2,800 In Baggage Fees (VIDEO)
Delta Charges U.S. Troops Returning From Afghanistan $2,800 In Baggage Fees (VIDEO): "WASHINGTON -- Delta Air Lines is facing intense criticism after charging 34 U.S. soldiers returning from Afghanistan $2,800 in baggage fees.
The incident came to light on Tuesday after a couple of the new-media savvy soldiers recorded a video about their ordeal and posted it on YouTube.
'We showed up and found out we had too many bags,' said Army Staff Sgt. Robert O'Hair in the video, which was shot on their flight. 'We had four bags, and Delta Air Lines only allows three bags. Anything over three bags you have to pay for, even though there's a contract between the United States government and Delta Air Lines: When returning from Afghanistan on military orders, you're authorized up to four bags.'"
The incident came to light on Tuesday after a couple of the new-media savvy soldiers recorded a video about their ordeal and posted it on YouTube.
'We showed up and found out we had too many bags,' said Army Staff Sgt. Robert O'Hair in the video, which was shot on their flight. 'We had four bags, and Delta Air Lines only allows three bags. Anything over three bags you have to pay for, even though there's a contract between the United States government and Delta Air Lines: When returning from Afghanistan on military orders, you're authorized up to four bags.'"
Syrians Flee Town Of Jisr Al-Shughour, Where Scores Of Security Men Were Killed, As troops approach
Syrians Flee Town Of Jisr Al-Shughour, Where Scores Of Security Men Were Killed, As troops approach: "(Reuters) - Syrians fled a restive town toward the Turkish border, fearing bloodshed as troops with tanks approached, under orders to hit back after the government accused armed bands there of killing scores of its security men.
Though accounts of days of killing in Jisr al-Shughour ranged from an official version of gunmen ambushing troops to residents' reports of an army mutiny, it triggered international alarm that violence may enter a new and bloodier phase after three months of popular unrest that has left over 1,000 dead.
France and Britain, allies in the war against Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, took a lead in pushing U.N. moves against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. But Russia, citing NATO's inconclusive bombing of Tripoli, said it would veto intervention against Syria in the United Nations Security Council."
Though accounts of days of killing in Jisr al-Shughour ranged from an official version of gunmen ambushing troops to residents' reports of an army mutiny, it triggered international alarm that violence may enter a new and bloodier phase after three months of popular unrest that has left over 1,000 dead.
France and Britain, allies in the war against Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi, took a lead in pushing U.N. moves against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. But Russia, citing NATO's inconclusive bombing of Tripoli, said it would veto intervention against Syria in the United Nations Security Council."
Texas police probe psychic's mass grave hoax - Yahoo! News
Texas police probe psychic's mass grave hoax - Yahoo! News: "HARDIN, Texas (AFP) – Texas police were investigating whether a tip-off from a psychic about a mass grave containing dozens of dismembered bodies was in fact a hoax after an intense search found no bodies.
State, local and federal agents combed the area around a rural home after a woman who claimed to be psychic called police twice to report the mass grave at in Hardin, Texas about 50 miles (31 kilometers) northeast of Houston.
She provided a very good description of both the outside and interior of the one-storey brown brick home and blood was found on the porch, which prompted police to get a search warrant and call in reinforcements.
Soon, local media were reporting that as many as 25 to 30 bodies -- including children -- were found on the rural property. But those reports turned out to be false."
State, local and federal agents combed the area around a rural home after a woman who claimed to be psychic called police twice to report the mass grave at in Hardin, Texas about 50 miles (31 kilometers) northeast of Houston.
She provided a very good description of both the outside and interior of the one-storey brown brick home and blood was found on the porch, which prompted police to get a search warrant and call in reinforcements.
Soon, local media were reporting that as many as 25 to 30 bodies -- including children -- were found on the rural property. But those reports turned out to be false."
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Cop fired after helping fellow officers in distress | The Lookout - Yahoo! News
Cop fired after helping fellow officers in distress | The Lookout - Yahoo! News: "t was a Saturday on campus when David Sedmak, a Rice University police officer, heard 'Officer down, officer down!' on his scanner: Two members of the Houston Police Department had been shot downtown. Sedmak rushed to the scene to help his fellow officers.
But Rice didn't see Sedmak as a hero. Instead, the university fired him, citing 'dereliction of duty.'
The university said in a statement that its officers often assist other law enforcement agencies when the need arises. But Sedmak erred, it said, by not informing the university police dispatcher about where he was.
'Sedmak left his post when only two other officers were on duty and failed to notify his supervisor of his whereabouts for nearly an hour, which could have endangered the safety of our students and campus,' according to the university."
But Rice didn't see Sedmak as a hero. Instead, the university fired him, citing 'dereliction of duty.'
The university said in a statement that its officers often assist other law enforcement agencies when the need arises. But Sedmak erred, it said, by not informing the university police dispatcher about where he was.
'Sedmak left his post when only two other officers were on duty and failed to notify his supervisor of his whereabouts for nearly an hour, which could have endangered the safety of our students and campus,' according to the university."
Lesson Learned: When Use Of Social Media Is Clumsy : The Two-Way : NPR
Lesson Learned: When Use Of Social Media Is Clumsy : The Two-Way : NPR: "Two stories are putting a spotlight on clumsy uses of social media: First, of course, Rep. Anthony Weiner's dalliance with Twitter. As Mark reported, during a press conference today, Weiner admitted that he had tweeted a lewd picture of himself thinking he had direct messaged it to a woman. The picture was instead tweeted publicly and the media jumped on it, culminating in a tearful confession.
The second is nowhere near as provocative or serious, but it certainly caused a whole lot of trouble for one teen because of a technological mistake. As the AP reports, a teenager in Germany forgot to set her Facebook birthday invite to private and soon it went viral and some 15,000 people said they would attend."
The second is nowhere near as provocative or serious, but it certainly caused a whole lot of trouble for one teen because of a technological mistake. As the AP reports, a teenager in Germany forgot to set her Facebook birthday invite to private and soon it went viral and some 15,000 people said they would attend."
Health Care Costs New Threat To U.S. Military : NPR
Health Care Costs New Threat To U.S. Military : NPR: "Defense Secretary Robert Gates says pension and health care costs are eating the U.S. military alive. And the Pentagon predicts that the cost of taking care of its troops and retirees will keep growing.
Retired Maj. Gen. Arnold Punaro gets a lot of hate mail, because he's talking about something a whole lot of people don't want to hear about: the rising costs of military health and pension benefits.
'We in the Department of Defense are on the same path that General Motors found itself on,' he says.
Punaro, a former Marine, is a member of the Defense Business Board, a group that advises the Pentagon on its financial operations.
'General Motors did not start out to be a health care company that occasionally built an automobile,' he says. 'Today, we're on the path in the Department of Defense to turn it into a benefits company that may occasionally kill a terrorist.'"
Retired Maj. Gen. Arnold Punaro gets a lot of hate mail, because he's talking about something a whole lot of people don't want to hear about: the rising costs of military health and pension benefits.
'We in the Department of Defense are on the same path that General Motors found itself on,' he says.
Punaro, a former Marine, is a member of the Defense Business Board, a group that advises the Pentagon on its financial operations.
'General Motors did not start out to be a health care company that occasionally built an automobile,' he says. 'Today, we're on the path in the Department of Defense to turn it into a benefits company that may occasionally kill a terrorist.'"
Monday, June 6, 2011
Obama Afghanistan Exit Strategy: Afghan Troops Not Ready to Take Over
Obama Afghanistan Exit Strategy: Afghan Troops Not Ready to Take Over: "WASHINGTON -- U.S. and allied military trainers are making 'significant'' progress on the Obama administration's 'exit strategy' from Afghanistan, a senior American general said on Monday.
But Army Lt. Gen. William B. Caldwell said the plan -- to train Afghan soldiers and police to replace the 100,000 American troops now serving there -- is still struggling with high attrition and corruption. It has also been plagued by a surge of attacks on allied troops and assassinations of Afghanistan officials by rogue Afghan police and soldiers.
'I don't want to mislead anybody that there aren't ample challenges ahead,' said Caldwell, who leads the NATO command that has trained just over 296,000 Afghan army troops and police, at a forum organized by the nonpartisan Brookings Institution. But he added, the Afghan security forces will 'absolutely'' be ready to take the lead in combat operations by 2014, the deadline set by NATO."
But Army Lt. Gen. William B. Caldwell said the plan -- to train Afghan soldiers and police to replace the 100,000 American troops now serving there -- is still struggling with high attrition and corruption. It has also been plagued by a surge of attacks on allied troops and assassinations of Afghanistan officials by rogue Afghan police and soldiers.
'I don't want to mislead anybody that there aren't ample challenges ahead,' said Caldwell, who leads the NATO command that has trained just over 296,000 Afghan army troops and police, at a forum organized by the nonpartisan Brookings Institution. But he added, the Afghan security forces will 'absolutely'' be ready to take the lead in combat operations by 2014, the deadline set by NATO."
Scientist: Body in Casey Anthony's trunk 'only plausible explanation' - CNN.com
Scientist: Body in Casey Anthony's trunk 'only plausible explanation' - CNN.com: "CNN) -- The presence of a decomposing human body is the only plausible explanation for the odor in Casey Anthony's trunk and the results found in forensic testing, a scientist testified Monday in her capital murder trial.
Testing was conducted on carpet samples from the trunk of the Pontiac Sunfire, along with a spare tire cover, scrapings from the wheel well, air samples and paper towels found in a trash bag that had been in the trunk, Arpad Vass, a senior research scientist at Tennessee's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, testified in the Orlando, Florida, courtroom.
Vass, who spent all day Monday on the stand, said he and his partners have, as part of their general research, identified some 30 compounds as significant in the human decomposition process. Seven of those were confirmed in Anthony's trunk, he said.
Of those, Vass testified under cross-examination by defense attorney Jose Baez, only five were considered because the other two were at trace levels. 'We were very, very conservative,' Vass said."
Testing was conducted on carpet samples from the trunk of the Pontiac Sunfire, along with a spare tire cover, scrapings from the wheel well, air samples and paper towels found in a trash bag that had been in the trunk, Arpad Vass, a senior research scientist at Tennessee's Oak Ridge National Laboratory, testified in the Orlando, Florida, courtroom.
Vass, who spent all day Monday on the stand, said he and his partners have, as part of their general research, identified some 30 compounds as significant in the human decomposition process. Seven of those were confirmed in Anthony's trunk, he said.
Of those, Vass testified under cross-examination by defense attorney Jose Baez, only five were considered because the other two were at trace levels. 'We were very, very conservative,' Vass said."
State Department blasted over private contractor management - CNN.com
State Department blasted over private contractor management - CNN.com: "Washington (CNN) -- The State Department came under sharp criticism Monday over how it hires and monitors thousands of private contractors.
A watchdog panel, the Commission on Wartime Contracting, has questioned whether the State Department is prepared to continue its work in Iraq, and protect American diplomats, once the U.S. military withdraws, now set for the end of this year.
'Our concerns remain very much alive,' the commission's co-chairman, Christopher Shays, said in his opening statement.
Shays also focused on what he said was State Department refusal to document its rationale for not taking action against contractors officially recommended for suspension or disbarment.
That response approaches the borderline of government negligence,' Shays said."
A watchdog panel, the Commission on Wartime Contracting, has questioned whether the State Department is prepared to continue its work in Iraq, and protect American diplomats, once the U.S. military withdraws, now set for the end of this year.
'Our concerns remain very much alive,' the commission's co-chairman, Christopher Shays, said in his opening statement.
Shays also focused on what he said was State Department refusal to document its rationale for not taking action against contractors officially recommended for suspension or disbarment.
That response approaches the borderline of government negligence,' Shays said."
Ex-IMF chief Strauss-Kahn pleads not guilty at arraignment - CNN.com
Ex-IMF chief Strauss-Kahn pleads not guilty at arraignment - CNN.com: "New York (CNN) -- Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the former chief of the International Monetary Fund, pleaded not guilty Monday to seven charges involving a May 14 incident in which a housekeeping employee at New York's Sofitel hotel accused him of sexual assault.
Strauss-Kahn, who was considered a front-runner in France's next presidential race before his arrest, faces charges including criminal sexual acts and sexual abuse.
His attorney, Ben Brafman, declined to comment on details of the case in a brief statement to reporters outside the courtroom following the plea.
'We intend to defend this case and defend it vigorously, but we are going to do so in the courtroom,' Brafman said, renewing earlier statements that evidence in the case will reveal his client is innocent."
Strauss-Kahn, who was considered a front-runner in France's next presidential race before his arrest, faces charges including criminal sexual acts and sexual abuse.
His attorney, Ben Brafman, declined to comment on details of the case in a brief statement to reporters outside the courtroom following the plea.
'We intend to defend this case and defend it vigorously, but we are going to do so in the courtroom,' Brafman said, renewing earlier statements that evidence in the case will reveal his client is innocent."
KKK: Trying To 'Re-Brand' Itself?
KKK: Trying To 'Re-Brand' Itself?: "At the Arlington National Cemetery on Memorial Day, a handful of picketers from controversial hate group the Westboro Baptist Church (WBC) were siphoned off into a corner, as other military family members came to pay their respects.
Members of the hate group have become a ubiquitous presence at funerals in recent years; they can frequently be seen in packs, holding signs emblazoned with “God Hates Fags” or “Thank God For Dead Soldiers.”
But at Arlington last Monday, one group of demonstrators came out to counter-protest the WBC, catching national media attention as they handed out American flags to passersby and denounced the WBC's actions.
They were members of the KKK, the most well-known hate group in American history."
Members of the hate group have become a ubiquitous presence at funerals in recent years; they can frequently be seen in packs, holding signs emblazoned with “God Hates Fags” or “Thank God For Dead Soldiers.”
But at Arlington last Monday, one group of demonstrators came out to counter-protest the WBC, catching national media attention as they handed out American flags to passersby and denounced the WBC's actions.
They were members of the KKK, the most well-known hate group in American history."
Sunday, June 5, 2011
U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Pays High Price For Afghan Surge Year
U.S. Army's 101st Airborne Pays High Price For Afghan Surge Year: "JALALABAD, Afghanistan — The soldiers of the Army's famed 101st Airborne Division deployed to Afghanistan confident their counterinsurgency expertise would once again turn a surge strategy into a success but are headed home uncertain of lasting changes on the battlefield.
As the division's 24,000 soldiers return to Fort Campbell from their one-year deployment, doubts remain in the military that security in Afghanistan can last without a significant U.S. military presence for years. The division brought effective counterinsurgency lessons from Iraq, but is still waiting to see whether those strategies can take hold in Afghanistan.
What progress was made in improving security and governance came at a high price: The division known as the Screaming Eagles lost 131 soldiers, the most killed in a single deployment for the unit since Vietnam, with many more wounded or injured. The 101st has been a force in America's major conflicts since World War II, when it was first formed for the 1944 Allied invasion of Normandy."
As the division's 24,000 soldiers return to Fort Campbell from their one-year deployment, doubts remain in the military that security in Afghanistan can last without a significant U.S. military presence for years. The division brought effective counterinsurgency lessons from Iraq, but is still waiting to see whether those strategies can take hold in Afghanistan.
What progress was made in improving security and governance came at a high price: The division known as the Screaming Eagles lost 131 soldiers, the most killed in a single deployment for the unit since Vietnam, with many more wounded or injured. The 101st has been a force in America's major conflicts since World War II, when it was first formed for the 1944 Allied invasion of Normandy."
D.C. cop charged in two deaths in P.G. park - Washington Times
D.C. cop charged in two deaths in P.G. park - Washington Times: "Officer Richmond Diallo Binns Phillips, an eight-year veteran of the Metropolitan Police Department, is being held in the deaths of 20-year-old Wynetta Wright and her 1-year-old daughter, Jaylin Wright.
Prince George's police arrested Officer Phillips on Friday and charged him with one count each of first-degree murder, second-degree murder and manslaughter. He is being held without bond.
The mother and daughter were reported missing May 30 and found dead three days later near the Hillcrest Heights Community Center, Lt. Col. Gary Cunningham, a deputy commander in the Prince George's County Police Department, said.
Miss Wright and Officer Phillips were scheduled to have a child support hearing May 31, according to county Circuit Court records. However, officials would not say whether the officer was thought to be the father of Jaylin or if the hearing was related to the child."
Prince George's police arrested Officer Phillips on Friday and charged him with one count each of first-degree murder, second-degree murder and manslaughter. He is being held without bond.
The mother and daughter were reported missing May 30 and found dead three days later near the Hillcrest Heights Community Center, Lt. Col. Gary Cunningham, a deputy commander in the Prince George's County Police Department, said.
Miss Wright and Officer Phillips were scheduled to have a child support hearing May 31, according to county Circuit Court records. However, officials would not say whether the officer was thought to be the father of Jaylin or if the hearing was related to the child."
Lifting the Veil | Watch Free Documentary Online
Lifting the Veil | Watch Free Documentary Online: "This film explores the historical role of the Democratic Party as the graveyard of social movements, the massive influence of corporate finance in elections, the absurd disparities of wealth in the United States, the continuity and escalation of neocon policies under Obama, the insufficiency of mere voting as a path to reform, and differing conceptions of democracy itself.
Lifting the Veil is the long overdue film that powerfully, definitively, and finally exposes the deadly 21st century hypocrisy of U.S. internal and external policies, even as it imbues the viewer with a sense of urgency and an actualized hope to bring about real systemic change while there is yet time for humanity and this planet.
Noble is brilliantly pioneering the new film-making – incisive analysis, compelling sound and footage, fearless and independent reporting, and the aggregation of the best information out there into powerful, educational and free online feature films – all on a shoestring budget.
Viewer discretion advised – Video contains images depicting the reality and horror of war."
Lifting the Veil is the long overdue film that powerfully, definitively, and finally exposes the deadly 21st century hypocrisy of U.S. internal and external policies, even as it imbues the viewer with a sense of urgency and an actualized hope to bring about real systemic change while there is yet time for humanity and this planet.
Noble is brilliantly pioneering the new film-making – incisive analysis, compelling sound and footage, fearless and independent reporting, and the aggregation of the best information out there into powerful, educational and free online feature films – all on a shoestring budget.
Viewer discretion advised – Video contains images depicting the reality and horror of war."
Ex-Army CB sues Patti LaBelle in wake of beating, demotion, deployment - Dr. Saturday - NCAAF Blog - Yahoo! Sports
Ex-Army CB sues Patti LaBelle in wake of beating, demotion, deployment - Dr. Saturday - NCAAF Blog - Yahoo! Sports: "In his best-laid plans, Richard King was set to leave West Point next year as both a starting cornerback on the Cadet football team and a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Instead, in a span of a little less than three months, he's been inflicted with likely career-ending injuries, busted to private and thrust into the queue for active duty — all, according to a lawsuit filed this week, the consequences of an unexpected encounter with R&B diva Patti LaBelle after King landed in his native Houston for spring break on March 11:"
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Bradley Manning Supporters Rally At Kansas Prison
Bradley Manning Supporters Rally At Kansas Prison: "WASHINGTON -- Hundreds of supporters of Bradley Manning converged at Leavenworth, Kan., Saturday to rally for the Army private accused of leaking classified documents to the anti-secrecy group WikiLeaks.
Gathered outside the prison where Manning is currently being held, protesters denounced Manning's treatment and called on the White House to drop all charges against him.
'PFC Bradley Manning is a fellow soldier,' Brian Wolfe, a Kansas-based Army Veteran who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, said in an email statement. 'If a fellow soldier is punished for taking his oath to defend the constitution seriously, what does that mean for our military and for our democracy?'
The event marked the first public rally in support of Manning since he was transferred to Fort Leavenworth in April after being imprisoned for nine months on the Quantico Marine Corps Base in Virginia.
While detained at Quantico, Manning was forced to sleep naked in a military jail after a commander of the brig ordered his clothes be taken away for a full seven hours. He was also forced to stand naked outside his cell in front of the rest of the clothed inmates until he passed inspection and was given his clothes back."
Gathered outside the prison where Manning is currently being held, protesters denounced Manning's treatment and called on the White House to drop all charges against him.
'PFC Bradley Manning is a fellow soldier,' Brian Wolfe, a Kansas-based Army Veteran who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, said in an email statement. 'If a fellow soldier is punished for taking his oath to defend the constitution seriously, what does that mean for our military and for our democracy?'
The event marked the first public rally in support of Manning since he was transferred to Fort Leavenworth in April after being imprisoned for nine months on the Quantico Marine Corps Base in Virginia.
While detained at Quantico, Manning was forced to sleep naked in a military jail after a commander of the brig ordered his clothes be taken away for a full seven hours. He was also forced to stand naked outside his cell in front of the rest of the clothed inmates until he passed inspection and was given his clothes back."
U.S. says worried by cyber-attacks; committed to Asia | Reuters
U.S. says worried by cyber-attacks; committed to Asia | Reuters: "(Reuters) - The United States is seriously concerned about cyber-attacks and is prepared to use force against those it considers acts of war, Defense Secretary Robert Gates said at a security meeting in Asia on Saturday.
He also assured Asian allies that the United States would protect sea lanes and maintain a robust military presence in the region despite a severe budget crunch and the protracted wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
'We take the cyber threat very seriously and we see it from a variety of sources, not just one or another country,' Gates said at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue, an apparent reference to reports that several of the attacks may have originated in China.
'What would constitute an act of war by cyber that would require some kind of response, either in kind or kinetically?' he said.
'We could avoid some serious international tensions in the future if we could establish some rules of the road as early as possible to let people know what kinds of acts are acceptable, what kinds of acts are not and what kinds of acts may in fact be acts of war.'"
He also assured Asian allies that the United States would protect sea lanes and maintain a robust military presence in the region despite a severe budget crunch and the protracted wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
'We take the cyber threat very seriously and we see it from a variety of sources, not just one or another country,' Gates said at the annual Shangri-La Dialogue, an apparent reference to reports that several of the attacks may have originated in China.
'What would constitute an act of war by cyber that would require some kind of response, either in kind or kinetically?' he said.
'We could avoid some serious international tensions in the future if we could establish some rules of the road as early as possible to let people know what kinds of acts are acceptable, what kinds of acts are not and what kinds of acts may in fact be acts of war.'"
BBC News - Google to abandon older browsers
BBC News - Google to abandon older browsers: "Google is phasing out support for older browsers from 1 August.
Those using IE7, Safari 3, Firefox 3.5 and their predecessors to view Gmail, Google Calendar, Talk, Docs and Sites will then lose some functions.
Eventually, it warned, these web services will stop working for those sticking with older browsers.
The move is part of a trend to stop the use of ageing browsers which can be insecure and not sophisticated enough to handle the latest web technologies.
Code malfunction
Statistics on browser versions gathered by StatCounter suggest about 17% need to change in the light of Google's decision.
Google made its announcement in a blogpost saying its engineers were keen to make use of the latest capabilities in browsers, and that required support for HTML5 technology.
As a result, from 1 August, Google will only support what it calls 'modern browsers'. By this it means the latest versions and major prior releases of Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer and Safari."
Those using IE7, Safari 3, Firefox 3.5 and their predecessors to view Gmail, Google Calendar, Talk, Docs and Sites will then lose some functions.
Eventually, it warned, these web services will stop working for those sticking with older browsers.
The move is part of a trend to stop the use of ageing browsers which can be insecure and not sophisticated enough to handle the latest web technologies.
Code malfunction
Statistics on browser versions gathered by StatCounter suggest about 17% need to change in the light of Google's decision.
Google made its announcement in a blogpost saying its engineers were keen to make use of the latest capabilities in browsers, and that required support for HTML5 technology.
As a result, from 1 August, Google will only support what it calls 'modern browsers'. By this it means the latest versions and major prior releases of Chrome, Firefox, Internet Explorer and Safari."
Thomas Jefferson And The Cha Cha Slide : NPR
Thomas Jefferson And The Cha Cha Slide : NPR: "There's a meet-up planned at the Jefferson Memorial today. People are invited to bring their own music, listen to it on earbuds, and dance.
I'm not sure the meet-up began as a protest. It's become one now.
In May, an appeals court ruled that the U-S Park Police were right to arrest a woman named Mary Brooke Oberwetter for going to the Jefferson Memorial with a group of friends shortly before midnight on April 12, 2008, and silently dancing to salute Thomas Jefferson's 265th birthday.
The court said that the dancing 'distracted from the atmosphere of solemn commemoration' Park Service regulations uphold for all visitors.
Ms. Oberwetter, who has described herself as a libertarian, said dancing is free expression, and that schoolchildren on a field trip create more noise and distraction."
I'm not sure the meet-up began as a protest. It's become one now.
In May, an appeals court ruled that the U-S Park Police were right to arrest a woman named Mary Brooke Oberwetter for going to the Jefferson Memorial with a group of friends shortly before midnight on April 12, 2008, and silently dancing to salute Thomas Jefferson's 265th birthday.
The court said that the dancing 'distracted from the atmosphere of solemn commemoration' Park Service regulations uphold for all visitors.
Ms. Oberwetter, who has described herself as a libertarian, said dancing is free expression, and that schoolchildren on a field trip create more noise and distraction."
Clinton urges U.S. companies to invest in Iraq - CNN.com
Clinton urges U.S. companies to invest in Iraq - CNN.com: "Washington (CNN) -- Iraq is open for business, and American companies should make an effort to invest there, Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Friday.
'President Obama and I and our government believe strongly that expanding economic opportunity is as essential as building democratic institutions,' Clinton said while surrounded by executives from companies as far-ranging as Occidental Petroleum, JP Morgan Chase, General Electric, Microsoft and Lockheed Martin, in a round-table discussion aimed at getting companies focused on commercial opportunities in Iraq despite its current 'tough environment.'
The meeting comes as the United States transitions from a military-led to a civilian-led partnership with the Iraqi government by the end of the year. The State Department is leading an inter-agency effort to support American companies in their efforts to secure commercial opportunities in Iraq.
With one of the largest customer bases in the Arab world, along with one of the best-educated work forces in the region, Clinton said, Iraq poses significant opportunities for American companies. The International Monetary Fund has projected for Iraq to grow faster than China over the next two years, she said."
'President Obama and I and our government believe strongly that expanding economic opportunity is as essential as building democratic institutions,' Clinton said while surrounded by executives from companies as far-ranging as Occidental Petroleum, JP Morgan Chase, General Electric, Microsoft and Lockheed Martin, in a round-table discussion aimed at getting companies focused on commercial opportunities in Iraq despite its current 'tough environment.'
The meeting comes as the United States transitions from a military-led to a civilian-led partnership with the Iraqi government by the end of the year. The State Department is leading an inter-agency effort to support American companies in their efforts to secure commercial opportunities in Iraq.
With one of the largest customer bases in the Arab world, along with one of the best-educated work forces in the region, Clinton said, Iraq poses significant opportunities for American companies. The International Monetary Fund has projected for Iraq to grow faster than China over the next two years, she said."
Doctor Alleges Dirty Instruments At Columbia Hospital - Milwaukee News Story - WISN Milwaukee
Doctor Alleges Dirty Instruments At Columbia Hospital - Milwaukee News Story - WISN Milwaukee: "MILWAUKEE -- Last fall, 12 News revealed that cuts to Columbia Hospital's Infection Control Program may have resulted in dirty surgical instruments and an increase in staph infections.
Thursday, a surgeon-turned-whistleblower spoke out for the first time.
The allegations date back to 2008, when Dr. James Stoll alleged that budget cuts were resulting in an increase of bacterial infections in the old Columbia Hospital.
When 12 News spoke to Stoll last fall, he was bound by a gag order.
'Unfortunately I am under a judicial order not to speak about these events,' he told 12 News' Colleen Henry last fall.
Today, Stoll told his story in court as well as 12 News.
On Thursday, Stoll told a jury he believed dirty surgical instruments resulted in an increase in staph infections at the old hospital, including the deadly MRSA bacteria. Cindy Patrick is a plaintiff in the case, and claims she contracted a deadly infection during surgery at the old Columbia Hospital."
Thursday, a surgeon-turned-whistleblower spoke out for the first time.
The allegations date back to 2008, when Dr. James Stoll alleged that budget cuts were resulting in an increase of bacterial infections in the old Columbia Hospital.
When 12 News spoke to Stoll last fall, he was bound by a gag order.
'Unfortunately I am under a judicial order not to speak about these events,' he told 12 News' Colleen Henry last fall.
Today, Stoll told his story in court as well as 12 News.
On Thursday, Stoll told a jury he believed dirty surgical instruments resulted in an increase in staph infections at the old hospital, including the deadly MRSA bacteria. Cindy Patrick is a plaintiff in the case, and claims she contracted a deadly infection during surgery at the old Columbia Hospital."
Tornado Victims 'Fight Off Looters With Crowbars' - Boston News Story - WCVB Boston
Tornado Victims 'Fight Off Looters With Crowbars' - Boston News Story - WCVB Boston: "MONSON, Mass. -- Looting has also become a problem in the tornado-ravaged town of Monson.
On Stewart Avenue, among the hardest-hit streets in the town, Diana Walker said the looting started almost immediately after the tornado hit Wednesday. Walker, of Wilbraham, came to Monson to assist a friend whose home was toppled in the storm.
Television and jewelry were taken from the wreckage of the house, she said. Neighbors took to using crowbars to keep looters away.
'Broad daylight yesterday, there were guys who were stealing stuff off my neighbor's lawn,' Monson resident Douglas North said. 'They just walked up and started picking stuff up. All this screaming and yelling started, and we had to chase these guys off. We don't need that stuff here.'"
On Stewart Avenue, among the hardest-hit streets in the town, Diana Walker said the looting started almost immediately after the tornado hit Wednesday. Walker, of Wilbraham, came to Monson to assist a friend whose home was toppled in the storm.
Television and jewelry were taken from the wreckage of the house, she said. Neighbors took to using crowbars to keep looters away.
'Broad daylight yesterday, there were guys who were stealing stuff off my neighbor's lawn,' Monson resident Douglas North said. 'They just walked up and started picking stuff up. All this screaming and yelling started, and we had to chase these guys off. We don't need that stuff here.'"
Report: Marine never fired on SWAT officers who fatally shot him - CNN.com
Report: Marine never fired on SWAT officers who fatally shot him - CNN.com: "Tucson, Arizona (CNN) -- A U.S. Marine who died in a flurry of bullets during a drug raid near Tucson never fired on the SWAT team that stormed his house, a report by the Pima County Sheriff's Department shows.
The revelation was contained in an internal investigation released by the department Thursday.
Jose Guerena died May 5 after a SWAT team descended on his home in a Tucson suburb with a search warrant. His home was one of four believed to be associated with a drug smuggling operation in the area.
A video released Thursday by the sheriff's department shows the uniformed SWAT team pulling up outside his house, sounding their sirens, banging on the front door -- before kicking it in -- and opening fire shortly after entering the home."
The revelation was contained in an internal investigation released by the department Thursday.
Jose Guerena died May 5 after a SWAT team descended on his home in a Tucson suburb with a search warrant. His home was one of four believed to be associated with a drug smuggling operation in the area.
A video released Thursday by the sheriff's department shows the uniformed SWAT team pulling up outside his house, sounding their sirens, banging on the front door -- before kicking it in -- and opening fire shortly after entering the home."
Hair from car has decomposition like Caylee's, FBI tech testifies - CNN.com
Hair from car has decomposition like Caylee's, FBI tech testifies - CNN.com: "(CNN) -- A single hair that shows evidence of decomposition was similar to that of Casey Anthony's 2-year-old daughter, Caylee, an FBI evidence analyst testified at the Orlando, Florida, woman's trial Saturday.
Investigators found the hair in the trunk of Casey Anthony's car. Prosecutors are trying to link the hair to Caylee as evidence that her body was in the car.
But defense attorney Jose Baez attacked FBI trace evidence examiner Karen Lowe's findings as little more than unreliable opinion in a morning of fitful testimony that produced frequent objections and huddles among the attorneys out of earshot of the jury.
A crime scene investigator, the operator of a towing company and members of Anthony's family all have testified they smelled a bad odor coming from Anthony's car after it was found abandoned in a parking lot on June 27, 2008, then towed four days later."
Investigators found the hair in the trunk of Casey Anthony's car. Prosecutors are trying to link the hair to Caylee as evidence that her body was in the car.
But defense attorney Jose Baez attacked FBI trace evidence examiner Karen Lowe's findings as little more than unreliable opinion in a morning of fitful testimony that produced frequent objections and huddles among the attorneys out of earshot of the jury.
A crime scene investigator, the operator of a towing company and members of Anthony's family all have testified they smelled a bad odor coming from Anthony's car after it was found abandoned in a parking lot on June 27, 2008, then towed four days later."
North Korea Vows 'Retaliatory Military Actions' Against South Korea
North Korea Vows 'Retaliatory Military Actions' Against South Korea: "SEOUL, South Korea — North Korea vowed Friday to launch 'retaliatory military actions' against South Korea, a threat that came days after Seoul said its military had used photos of Pyongyang's ruling family for target practice.
The North's fiery statement is part of a barrage of harsh rhetoric this week aimed at the conservative government of South Korean President Lee Myung-bak, who took office in 2008 with a harder line than his liberal predecessors.
Pyongyang sees 'no need to sit face to face with the Lee group of traitors' and believes the only way to settle differences with Seoul is 'by force of arms,' the statement by an unidentified spokesman for the general staff of the North's Korean People's Army said."
The North's fiery statement is part of a barrage of harsh rhetoric this week aimed at the conservative government of South Korean President Lee Myung-bak, who took office in 2008 with a harder line than his liberal predecessors.
Pyongyang sees 'no need to sit face to face with the Lee group of traitors' and believes the only way to settle differences with Seoul is 'by force of arms,' the statement by an unidentified spokesman for the general staff of the North's Korean People's Army said."
Pit bulls’ surprising past: Nanny dogs | The Upshot - Yahoo! News
Pit bulls’ surprising past: Nanny dogs | The Upshot - Yahoo! News: "Try to quickly summon an image of good-with-small-children dog, and chances are you'll picture something adorably Benji-shaggy. Or maybe a sweetie-pie golden retriever, or a loveball of a lab. It's not likely, at least not in today's perception of the breed, that an American pit bull terrier leaps to mind.
But not so long ago, pit bulls were brought in as 'nanny dogs,' the trusted caretaker pups to watch over kids.
Vintage photographs recently posted on a personal blog show off the breed as babysitter."
But not so long ago, pit bulls were brought in as 'nanny dogs,' the trusted caretaker pups to watch over kids.
Vintage photographs recently posted on a personal blog show off the breed as babysitter."
Friday, June 3, 2011
Elisabeth Joy LaMotte, LICSW: Out of the Woodwork
Elisabeth Joy LaMotte, LICSW: Out of the Woodwork: "For most, deciding to separate is no easy feat, especially if children are involved. The process of making this tremendous decision is usually predicated by months or even years of therapy, soul searching, self doubt and anxiety. Typically, this agonizing process of deciding whether to split up takes place in private. Perhaps a few close friends, family members or a therapist know that the couple is struggling. But, for the most part, the couple usually presents to the outside world as if it's all good (or good enough) on the marriage front.
One of the biggest concerns that I hear about as a therapist relates to how one's community will respond if a couple decides to divorce. A forty year old mother of two worries:"
One of the biggest concerns that I hear about as a therapist relates to how one's community will respond if a couple decides to divorce. A forty year old mother of two worries:"
Louis Ferrante: 10 Legitimate Business Tips From An Ex-Mafia Man
Louis Ferrante: 10 Legitimate Business Tips From An Ex-Mafia Man: "The Mafia is the longest running corporation in history. It thrives along with other organizations during prosperous times and flourishes even more in periods of economic decline. Bear or bull makes no difference to the Mafia.
For all the well-deserved criticisms of the Mob's violence, its most successful members have always been remarkably astute businessmen -- they have applied their street smarts to legal enterprises and earned millions doing so. In fact, the Mafia is just like any other major organization in America, raking in billions a year in profit. But few people realize that every large crime family is comprised of many individual Mafia crews that are run just like small businesses.
My new book, Mob Rules: What the Mafia Can Teach the Legitimate Businessman, brings together all of the Mob's accrued wisdom and shrewd business practices so that small business owners everywhere can learn a thing or two from their counterparts in the underworld.
Here are 10 lessons small business owners can take from the Mafia:"
For all the well-deserved criticisms of the Mob's violence, its most successful members have always been remarkably astute businessmen -- they have applied their street smarts to legal enterprises and earned millions doing so. In fact, the Mafia is just like any other major organization in America, raking in billions a year in profit. But few people realize that every large crime family is comprised of many individual Mafia crews that are run just like small businesses.
My new book, Mob Rules: What the Mafia Can Teach the Legitimate Businessman, brings together all of the Mob's accrued wisdom and shrewd business practices so that small business owners everywhere can learn a thing or two from their counterparts in the underworld.
Here are 10 lessons small business owners can take from the Mafia:"
cant-call-southwest-discount-airlines-wsj: Personal Finance News from Yahoo! Finance
cant-call-southwest-discount-airlines-wsj: Personal Finance News from Yahoo! Finance: "Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV - News), the king of low fares, is feeling its crown slip.
High fuel prices, the end of lucrative fuel hedges and a changing route network have led Southwest to push its prices up dramatically, faster than many other airlines. With last-minute fares of more than $1,000 round-trip in long-haul markets, some nonrefundable fares over $900 and average prices in some markets higher than competitors, it's hard to call Southwest a 'discount' carrier anymore.
Southwest's average ticket price has jumped 39% in the past five years, while the average ticket price for domestic trips for the industry was up 10%, according to the Department of Transportation.
That's led to more markets where Southwest is sometimes higher priced than rival airlines. Between Baltimore and Oakland, Calif., a route where Southwest carries 73% of all passengers, Southwest's average ticket was $232 in the fourth-quarter last year, up a hefty 63% from $142 in the same period of 2005, according to government data. The second-largest carrier on that route was Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE: DAL - News), which averaged $166 in the fourth quarter last year, or 28% less than Southwest."
High fuel prices, the end of lucrative fuel hedges and a changing route network have led Southwest to push its prices up dramatically, faster than many other airlines. With last-minute fares of more than $1,000 round-trip in long-haul markets, some nonrefundable fares over $900 and average prices in some markets higher than competitors, it's hard to call Southwest a 'discount' carrier anymore.
Southwest's average ticket price has jumped 39% in the past five years, while the average ticket price for domestic trips for the industry was up 10%, according to the Department of Transportation.
That's led to more markets where Southwest is sometimes higher priced than rival airlines. Between Baltimore and Oakland, Calif., a route where Southwest carries 73% of all passengers, Southwest's average ticket was $232 in the fourth-quarter last year, up a hefty 63% from $142 in the same period of 2005, according to government data. The second-largest carrier on that route was Delta Air Lines Inc. (NYSE: DAL - News), which averaged $166 in the fourth quarter last year, or 28% less than Southwest."
Jury selection secretly begins early in Anthony Sowell murder trial
Jury selection secretly begins early in Anthony Sowell murder trial: "CLEVELAND - Jury selection secretly began three days ahead of schedule in the trial of accused Cleveland serial killer Anthony Sowell.
The first panel of 200 jurors filled out questionnaires Friday morning at the Cleveland Justice Center.
Jury selection, scheduled to start Monday morning, was kept secret under orders from Judge Dick Ambrose, who cited it was in the interest of a fair trial.
During the selection process Friday, prospective jurors filled out a 36-page questionnaire.
Sowell is charged with the 11 murders of women whose bodies were found in and around his Imperial Avenue house in 2009.
NewsChannel5’s Ron Regan is in the courtroom. Keep checking newsnet5.com for more information.
And make sure to check out our special interactive on the Anthony Sowell case and the history of the Imperial Avenue murders by following newsnet5.com/sowell ."
The first panel of 200 jurors filled out questionnaires Friday morning at the Cleveland Justice Center.
Jury selection, scheduled to start Monday morning, was kept secret under orders from Judge Dick Ambrose, who cited it was in the interest of a fair trial.
During the selection process Friday, prospective jurors filled out a 36-page questionnaire.
Sowell is charged with the 11 murders of women whose bodies were found in and around his Imperial Avenue house in 2009.
NewsChannel5’s Ron Regan is in the courtroom. Keep checking newsnet5.com for more information.
And make sure to check out our special interactive on the Anthony Sowell case and the history of the Imperial Avenue murders by following newsnet5.com/sowell ."
Driver in fatal Virginia bus crash charged with manslaughter - CNN.com
Driver in fatal Virginia bus crash charged with manslaughter - CNN.com: "New York (CNN) -- The driver of a commercial tour bus that crashed this week, killing four people and injuring 53, was charged with four counts of involuntary manslaughter, a prosecutor confirmed Friday.
Kin Yiu Cheung, 37, of Flushing, New York, was already was in custody on a reckless driving charge as the elevated charges were filed Friday.
Investigators blamed the wreck on driver fatigue.
The Virginia State Police Motor Carrier Safety Team ruled out any mechanical errors or malfunctions after inspecting the bus.
The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibited bus company Sky Express Inc. from operating interstate transportation services.
The Sky Express bus left Greensboro, North Carolina, at 10:30 p.m. Monday and was en route to Chinatown in New York City. It ran off I-95 and overturned early Tuesday in Caroline County, Virginia.
Sky Express is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina."
Kin Yiu Cheung, 37, of Flushing, New York, was already was in custody on a reckless driving charge as the elevated charges were filed Friday.
Investigators blamed the wreck on driver fatigue.
The Virginia State Police Motor Carrier Safety Team ruled out any mechanical errors or malfunctions after inspecting the bus.
The U.S. Department of Transportation prohibited bus company Sky Express Inc. from operating interstate transportation services.
The Sky Express bus left Greensboro, North Carolina, at 10:30 p.m. Monday and was en route to Chinatown in New York City. It ran off I-95 and overturned early Tuesday in Caroline County, Virginia.
Sky Express is headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina."
BBC News - Jack Kevorkian: 'Doctor Death' dies in US aged 83
BBC News - Jack Kevorkian: 'Doctor Death' dies in US aged 83: "Mayer Morganroth told the Associated Press news agency Kevorkian died on Friday at Michigan's Beaumont Hospital.
Kevorkian died after a blood clot from his leg broke free and lodged in his heart, the Detroit Free Press reported.
He was believed to have assisted in 130 suicides and was released from prison in 2007, after serving eight years.
The BBC's Steve Kingstone, in Washington, says no one disputes that Jack Kevorkian prompted debate. Today, doctor-assisted suicide is legal in three American states."
Kevorkian died after a blood clot from his leg broke free and lodged in his heart, the Detroit Free Press reported.
He was believed to have assisted in 130 suicides and was released from prison in 2007, after serving eight years.
The BBC's Steve Kingstone, in Washington, says no one disputes that Jack Kevorkian prompted debate. Today, doctor-assisted suicide is legal in three American states."
School superintendent requests school be turned into prison - Holy Kaw!
School superintendent requests school be turned into prison - Holy Kaw!: "Education funding is being slashed left and right, and in states like Michigan that have been feeling the big hurt for a long time, that isn’t surprising since there’s only so much money going around, right? Well, Nathan Bootz, a school superintendent wrote a letter to the governor of Michigan requesting that his school be turned into a prison where the state’s funding shortage isn’t having quite the impact it’s having on his schools."
BlackNews.com - Are Healthy School Lunches Too Expensive For The American Economy?
BlackNews.com - Are Healthy School Lunches Too Expensive For The American Economy?: "Washington, DC (June 1, 2011) -- House Republicans are pushing back against Obama administration efforts to promote healthier lunches, saying the Agriculture Department should rewrite rules it issued in January meant to make school meals healthier. They say the new rules are too costly.
The bill, approved by the House Appropriations Committee late Tuesday, also questions a government proposal to curb marketing of unhealthy foods to children and urges the Food and Drug Administration to limit rules requiring calorie counts be posted on menus."
The bill, approved by the House Appropriations Committee late Tuesday, also questions a government proposal to curb marketing of unhealthy foods to children and urges the Food and Drug Administration to limit rules requiring calorie counts be posted on menus."
Vogue Italia Puts Three Plus-Size Models On June Cover (PHOTOS)
Vogue Italia Puts Three Plus-Size Models On June Cover (PHOTOS): "Always ready to up the body image ante, Vogue Italia's June issue celebrates curvy models, with a trio of plus-sized beauties posing for the cover. Tara Lynn, Candice Huffine and Robyn Lawley lean over plates of spaghetti in their lingerie, and inside, Marquita Pring is added to the mix for Steven Meisel's lens.
The glossy's editor-in-chief Franca Sozzani recently told Women's Wear Daily, 'We help [plus-size women] dress fashionably. We say: It's pointless for you to buy leggings, take this because this will look good on you. We help them choose. We don't talk about diets because they don't want to be on a diet, but it's not a ghetto. Why should these women slim down? Many of the women who have a few extra kilos are especially beautiful and also more feminine.'
In March, Sozzani launched a petition against pro-anorexia websites. You can read more about that here.
Check out several photographs below. And head over to Vogue.it to see the rest (warning: NSFW at the link)."
The glossy's editor-in-chief Franca Sozzani recently told Women's Wear Daily, 'We help [plus-size women] dress fashionably. We say: It's pointless for you to buy leggings, take this because this will look good on you. We help them choose. We don't talk about diets because they don't want to be on a diet, but it's not a ghetto. Why should these women slim down? Many of the women who have a few extra kilos are especially beautiful and also more feminine.'
In March, Sozzani launched a petition against pro-anorexia websites. You can read more about that here.
Check out several photographs below. And head over to Vogue.it to see the rest (warning: NSFW at the link)."
NYPD's Special Victims Division - The Daily Beast
NYPD's Special Victims Division - The Daily Beast: "How do you know who’s lying and who’s telling the truth about a rape? These cops crack New York’s most shocking sex crimes, from no-name scoundrels to big-power suspects like former IMF chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn and Egyptian banker Mahmoud Abdel-Salam Omar, arrested at the Pierre Hotel on Monday. NYPD expert Christopher Dickey profiles the Special Victims Division, in this week's NEWSWEEK.
When New York City Police Department spokesman Paul Browne wants to say nothing—and everything—about the most sensational alleged sex crimes the NYPD has handled in years, he tells you in his authoritative voice, “Experienced NYPD detectives found the complainant’s story to be credible.”"
When New York City Police Department spokesman Paul Browne wants to say nothing—and everything—about the most sensational alleged sex crimes the NYPD has handled in years, he tells you in his authoritative voice, “Experienced NYPD detectives found the complainant’s story to be credible.”"
Playboy: Hugh Hefner relaunches his club in London's Mayfair | Mail Online
Playboy: Hugh Hefner relaunches his club in London's Mayfair | Mail Online: "Thirty years after the Playboy Club closed in London's Mayfair, Hugh Hefner is back, and clearly believes that Britain is ready for a return to the hedonism of the Sixties.
In the distinctly unglamorous surroundings of Stansted Airport, north of the capital, the 85-year-old mogul was, as ever, surrounded by bunnygirls as he arrived in the UK to launch the new Playboy Club in London.
But, as the bunnies hung on to their costumes on the chilly windswept runway, there were many wondering if perhaps the whole idea is a throwback too far."
In the distinctly unglamorous surroundings of Stansted Airport, north of the capital, the 85-year-old mogul was, as ever, surrounded by bunnygirls as he arrived in the UK to launch the new Playboy Club in London.
But, as the bunnies hung on to their costumes on the chilly windswept runway, there were many wondering if perhaps the whole idea is a throwback too far."
Why America’s Pissed: Cornel West, Robert Reich and More - The Daily Beast
Why America’s Pissed: Cornel West, Robert Reich and More - The Daily Beast: "The superrich are getting a larger and larger portion of national income and wealth yet paying a smaller and smaller portion of government revenues. Federal, state, and local budgets would be in much better shape if the superrich would pay their fair share. We’re seeing 30, 40, 50 or more kids crowded into classrooms. At the same time, billionaire hedge-fund managers are paying only 17 percent taxes. This makes no sense. In the current budget debate, we’ve got to increase taxes on the superrich.
Not just income taxes but capital gains taxes, too. Hedge-fund managers and private-equity managers exploit a loophole in the law that allows them to treat their income as capital gains, now subject to a 15 percent tax. That’s ludicrous—it’s a lower tax than bus drivers and secretaries pay. We’re the richest nation in the world—richer than we’ve ever been—and to think that we can’t afford to fix our roads, teach our kids, and provide early-childhood education is a scandal. "
Not just income taxes but capital gains taxes, too. Hedge-fund managers and private-equity managers exploit a loophole in the law that allows them to treat their income as capital gains, now subject to a 15 percent tax. That’s ludicrous—it’s a lower tax than bus drivers and secretaries pay. We’re the richest nation in the world—richer than we’ve ever been—and to think that we can’t afford to fix our roads, teach our kids, and provide early-childhood education is a scandal. "
BBC News - Tunisia: 150 migrant bodies found after boat accident
BBC News - Tunisia: 150 migrant bodies found after boat accident: "An operation to rescue passengers began off the Tunisian Kerkennah islands on Wednesday.
More than 580 people were saved, but some 250 went missing as the boat capsized in the stampede to leave.
The migrants were on a boat bound from Libya for Italy.
Rescue operations by the Tunisian navy and coast guard are still continuing.
Seven people, including two pregnant women, are in intensive care in hospitals at Sfax on the Tunisian mainland.
Supplies ran out
'Up to now 150 bodies of refugees have been found off the shores of Kerkennah,' Carole Laleve from the UN refugee agency told Reuters news agency."
More than 580 people were saved, but some 250 went missing as the boat capsized in the stampede to leave.
The migrants were on a boat bound from Libya for Italy.
Rescue operations by the Tunisian navy and coast guard are still continuing.
Seven people, including two pregnant women, are in intensive care in hospitals at Sfax on the Tunisian mainland.
Supplies ran out
'Up to now 150 bodies of refugees have been found off the shores of Kerkennah,' Carole Laleve from the UN refugee agency told Reuters news agency."
BBC News - US employment growth registers sharp slowdown in May
BBC News - US employment growth registers sharp slowdown in May: "Markets had expected a rise of 150,000. It follows a downwardly revised but still rapid 232,000 increase in April.
Despite the slowdown, it was the eighth month in a row of positive employment growth, according to data from the US Labor Department.
The unemployment rate also rose unexpectedly to 9.1%, from 9% a month earlier.
The number of unemployed remained largely unchanged at 13.9 million, but the number of long-term unemployed - out of work for more than 26 weeks - rose by 361,000 to 6.2 million."
Despite the slowdown, it was the eighth month in a row of positive employment growth, according to data from the US Labor Department.
The unemployment rate also rose unexpectedly to 9.1%, from 9% a month earlier.
The number of unemployed remained largely unchanged at 13.9 million, but the number of long-term unemployed - out of work for more than 26 weeks - rose by 361,000 to 6.2 million."
BBC News - Ratko Mladic shuns 'monstrous' war crimes charges
BBC News - Ratko Mladic shuns 'monstrous' war crimes charges: "Ex-Bosnian Serb army head Ratko Mladic has made his first appearance at The Hague war crimes tribunal, saying he will not enter a plea to the 'monstrous' and 'obnoxious' charges.
He is charged with atrocities during the 1992-95 Bosnian war, including the massacre of nearly 8,000 Muslim men and boys in Srebrenica in 1995.
Gen Mladic, who said he was 'gravely ill', told the court he had been 'defending my people and my country'.
He was arrested last week in Serbia.
The tribunal indictment charges him with genocide, persecution, extermination, murder, deportation, inhumane acts, terror, deportation and hostage-taking.
Prosecutors say this was his part in a plot to achieve the 'elimination or permanent removal' of Muslims from large parts of Bosnia in pursuit of a Greater Serbia.
As well as Srebrenica, Europe's worst atrocity since World War II, Gen Mladic is also charged over the 44-month siege of the capital Sarajevo from May 1992 in which 10,000 people died.
His lawyer and his family say he is too ill to stand trial but doctors have so far declared him fit to be in court."
He is charged with atrocities during the 1992-95 Bosnian war, including the massacre of nearly 8,000 Muslim men and boys in Srebrenica in 1995.
Gen Mladic, who said he was 'gravely ill', told the court he had been 'defending my people and my country'.
He was arrested last week in Serbia.
The tribunal indictment charges him with genocide, persecution, extermination, murder, deportation, inhumane acts, terror, deportation and hostage-taking.
Prosecutors say this was his part in a plot to achieve the 'elimination or permanent removal' of Muslims from large parts of Bosnia in pursuit of a Greater Serbia.
As well as Srebrenica, Europe's worst atrocity since World War II, Gen Mladic is also charged over the 44-month siege of the capital Sarajevo from May 1992 in which 10,000 people died.
His lawyer and his family say he is too ill to stand trial but doctors have so far declared him fit to be in court."
Rihanna Defends Controversial Video for 'Man Down'
Rihanna Defends Controversial Video for 'Man Down': "NEW YORK — Rihanna is defending her latest music video, which opens with a man being shot in the head.
'Man Down,' which premiered Tuesday on BET, is a song about a girl who shoots her lover in public. The video also portrays sexual assault.
On Tuesday, the Parents Television Council called the clip 'disturbing' and asked BET to stop airing it.
But on Thursday's '106 & Park,' BET's music video countdown show, Rihanna said the video is 'art with a message.'
'We just wanted to hone in on a very serious matter that people are afraid to address, especially if you've been victimized in this scenario,' Rihanna said."
'Man Down,' which premiered Tuesday on BET, is a song about a girl who shoots her lover in public. The video also portrays sexual assault.
On Tuesday, the Parents Television Council called the clip 'disturbing' and asked BET to stop airing it.
But on Thursday's '106 & Park,' BET's music video countdown show, Rihanna said the video is 'art with a message.'
'We just wanted to hone in on a very serious matter that people are afraid to address, especially if you've been victimized in this scenario,' Rihanna said."
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Next Corvette Will Be Powered by Small, High-Revving Turbo V-8 - Yahoo! Autos
Next Corvette Will Be Powered by Small, High-Revving Turbo V-8 - Yahoo! Autos: "GM has approved the use of a very European-style V-8 that will be only slightly larger than 3 liters in displacement. The engine will be an overhead-cam, rather than traditional overhead-valve design, using a dry sump oil system that’s particularly well suited to high-performance road courses rather than straight-line acceleration. The engine is expected to feature a narrow 80.5 mm bore and a long stroke, more like a Ferrari or Lamborghini powertrain than the approach used for traditional Motor City metal.
A very senior GM executive also confirmed that the new engine will be turbocharged, which will help yield a broad torque curve and maximum performance under a variety of driving conditions. The engine is expected to deliver in excess of 400 horsepower, which means a specific output in the range of 125 horsepower per liter. That’s the sort of number that would help the next-generation Vette stack up well against the likes of a Porsche 911 or Lamborghini Gallardo."
A very senior GM executive also confirmed that the new engine will be turbocharged, which will help yield a broad torque curve and maximum performance under a variety of driving conditions. The engine is expected to deliver in excess of 400 horsepower, which means a specific output in the range of 125 horsepower per liter. That’s the sort of number that would help the next-generation Vette stack up well against the likes of a Porsche 911 or Lamborghini Gallardo."
New Drug Sweeping Brazil 'More Toxic than Crack'
Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com
Buying Your Own Personal Jetpack a Reality?
Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com
Casey Anthony Trial: Mother Points a Finger at Her Daughter - The Daily Beast
Casey Anthony Trial: Mother Points a Finger at Her Daughter - The Daily Beast: "It was the ultimate tearjerker: a mother pointing a finger at her daughter, who faces death for killing her granddaughter. Diane Dimond on yesterday’s drama at the Casey Anthony trial.
At the end of the highly acclaimed HBO mini-series Mildred Pierce, actress Kate Winslet runs away from her ungrateful, manipulating adult daughter one afternoon and finds herself alone at the bar of her restaurant. Her ex-husband appears at her side—he, the father of the horrid daughter—and tells Mildred it's OK to hate your own child. He grabs a bottle and says, “Let’s get stinko!” Mildred smiles knowingly as the end credits roll."
At the end of the highly acclaimed HBO mini-series Mildred Pierce, actress Kate Winslet runs away from her ungrateful, manipulating adult daughter one afternoon and finds herself alone at the bar of her restaurant. Her ex-husband appears at her side—he, the father of the horrid daughter—and tells Mildred it's OK to hate your own child. He grabs a bottle and says, “Let’s get stinko!” Mildred smiles knowingly as the end credits roll."
Gil Scott-Heron remembered in multimedia tribute at Bohemian Caverns - The Washington Post
Gil Scott-Heron remembered in multimedia tribute at Bohemian Caverns - The Washington Post: "Unpredictability was the one certainty when Gil Scott-Heron performed, former associates of the poet and musician recalled at “Pieces of a Man,” a Monday night tribute to him.
Remembered former Scott-Heron manager Bernard Jackson: “They would ask us, ‘What are you going to play tonight?’ And we’d say, ‘That’s why we came — to find out.’ ”
That’s also how it went at the ramshackle but heartfelt memorial to Scott-Heron, who died Friday at 62. There were some choppy transitions and occasional dead air during the nearly six-hour Bohemian Caverns event, but no one seemed to mind. After all, whenever the next act wasn’t quite ready, DJ Underdog (one of the evening’s organizers) would just spin a Scott-Heron track, which was both apt and moving."
Remembered former Scott-Heron manager Bernard Jackson: “They would ask us, ‘What are you going to play tonight?’ And we’d say, ‘That’s why we came — to find out.’ ”
That’s also how it went at the ramshackle but heartfelt memorial to Scott-Heron, who died Friday at 62. There were some choppy transitions and occasional dead air during the nearly six-hour Bohemian Caverns event, but no one seemed to mind. After all, whenever the next act wasn’t quite ready, DJ Underdog (one of the evening’s organizers) would just spin a Scott-Heron track, which was both apt and moving."
idaho-foreclosure-snake-home: Personal Finance News from Yahoo! Finance
idaho-foreclosure-snake-home: Personal Finance News from Yahoo! Finance: "They say there are snake pits on Wall Street.
Chase has learned there are snake pits on Main Street too.
Last year, the J.P. Morgan Chase banking unit foreclosed on a home near Rexburg, Idaho, that is infested with garter snakes.
They slide through the yard, the crawl space, the walls, the ceilings, even across the floors. Sure, they're harmless, but there are perhaps thousands of them. They give off malodorous secretions when alarmed, and can even leave the well water tasting a bit like the way they smell".
Chase has learned there are snake pits on Main Street too.
Last year, the J.P. Morgan Chase banking unit foreclosed on a home near Rexburg, Idaho, that is infested with garter snakes.
They slide through the yard, the crawl space, the walls, the ceilings, even across the floors. Sure, they're harmless, but there are perhaps thousands of them. They give off malodorous secretions when alarmed, and can even leave the well water tasting a bit like the way they smell".
For Sale: The Desperate States of America | Common Dreams
For Sale: The Desperate States of America | Common Dreams: "While we have been frantically playing defense against relentless assaults on multiple fronts, from anti-union legislation to draconian anti-choice laws to the attempted privatization of Medicare, the selling off of public assets to the private sector has received little attention.
As states face a budget shortfall of $125 billion dollars for fiscal year 2012, leaders are searching for creative ways to fill budget gaps, while refusing to consider the one legitimate solution: forcing tax-dodging corporations and the rich to pay their fair share in taxes. Rather than upset the moneyed interests who bought their seats in office, politicians of all stripes prefer to cut pensions, close schools, slash child nutrition programs, and most importantly privatize, privatize, privatize!"
As states face a budget shortfall of $125 billion dollars for fiscal year 2012, leaders are searching for creative ways to fill budget gaps, while refusing to consider the one legitimate solution: forcing tax-dodging corporations and the rich to pay their fair share in taxes. Rather than upset the moneyed interests who bought their seats in office, politicians of all stripes prefer to cut pensions, close schools, slash child nutrition programs, and most importantly privatize, privatize, privatize!"
BBC News - Japan pensioners volunteer to tackle nuclear crisis
BBC News - Japan pensioners volunteer to tackle nuclear crisis: "Yasuteru Yamada said people from all walks of life were welcome to join the group Continue reading the main story Japan quake.
A group of more than 200 Japanese pensioners are volunteering to tackle the nuclear crisis at the Fukushima power station.
The Skilled Veterans Corps, as they call themselves, is made up of retired engineers and other professionals, all over the age of 60.
They say they should be facing the dangers of radiation, not the young.
It was while watching the television news that Yasuteru Yamada decided it was time for his generation to stand up.
No longer could he be just an observer of the struggle to stabilise the Fukushima nuclear plant.
The retired engineer is reporting back for duty at the age of 72, and he is organising a team of pensioners to go with him."
A group of more than 200 Japanese pensioners are volunteering to tackle the nuclear crisis at the Fukushima power station.
The Skilled Veterans Corps, as they call themselves, is made up of retired engineers and other professionals, all over the age of 60.
They say they should be facing the dangers of radiation, not the young.
It was while watching the television news that Yasuteru Yamada decided it was time for his generation to stand up.
No longer could he be just an observer of the struggle to stabilise the Fukushima nuclear plant.
The retired engineer is reporting back for duty at the age of 72, and he is organising a team of pensioners to go with him."
Poll: GOP Medicare-Ending Budget Bigger Political Fumble Than First Thought | TPMDC
Poll: GOP Medicare-Ending Budget Bigger Political Fumble Than First Thought | TPMDC: "It doesn't take much political savvy to note that Rep. Paul Ryan's (R-WI) Medicare-destroying budget plan hasn't panned out all that well for the GOP. But a new poll out from advocates for the Democratic health care law shows that the Ryan budget fail goes even deeper than embarrassed presidential candidates and special election upsets.
Not only does the poll show huge opposition to Ryan's plan to replace Medicare with a voucher system, the poll shows Democrats winning the credibility war when it comes to Medicare and 'protecting the middle class.' And -- in a jolt of good news for the White House and Democrats -- the numbers show that when voters are given Ryan budget messaging from opponents, support for the Democratic health care law actually goes up slightly in response."
Not only does the poll show huge opposition to Ryan's plan to replace Medicare with a voucher system, the poll shows Democrats winning the credibility war when it comes to Medicare and 'protecting the middle class.' And -- in a jolt of good news for the White House and Democrats -- the numbers show that when voters are given Ryan budget messaging from opponents, support for the Democratic health care law actually goes up slightly in response."
Doomsday believer donates entire inheritance to Family Radio - Jun. 1, 2011
Doomsday believer donates entire inheritance to Family Radio - Jun. 1, 2011: "Eileen Heuwetter was shocked to find out that her aunt left the majority of her estate to Family Radio, the group responsible for the doomsday warnings that the world would end on May 21. She and her sister were each left $25,000 from their aunt's estate. The rest is going to Family Radio.
The network of Christian radio stations based in Oakland, Ca., is almost entirely funded by donations. According to IRS filings, the group brought in $18 million in contributions in 2009 alone.
Heuwetter, the executor of the will, knew how much her aunt loved the radio station and admired its leader, Harold Camping, who is viewed as a prophet by many of his followers.
While other family members insisted it was crazy to let her aunt give all that money to a radio station, Heuwetter didn't initially contest the conditions of the will. She knew little about the Christian radio station, but knew her aunt, Doris Schmitt, found comfort in it."
The network of Christian radio stations based in Oakland, Ca., is almost entirely funded by donations. According to IRS filings, the group brought in $18 million in contributions in 2009 alone.
Heuwetter, the executor of the will, knew how much her aunt loved the radio station and admired its leader, Harold Camping, who is viewed as a prophet by many of his followers.
While other family members insisted it was crazy to let her aunt give all that money to a radio station, Heuwetter didn't initially contest the conditions of the will. She knew little about the Christian radio station, but knew her aunt, Doris Schmitt, found comfort in it."
BBC News - Libya conflict: UN accuses both sides of war crimes
BBC News - Libya conflict: UN accuses both sides of war crimes: "Rights experts said they had found evidence of crimes including murder and torture, in a pattern suggesting Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi was behind them.
The UN mission also said opposition forces were guilty of abuses that would constitute war crimes, although they were not as numerous.
Earlier, Nato extended its mission in Libya by a further 90 days.
The UN investigators' report, released on Wednesday in Geneva, was carried out by a team of three human rights experts.
Early on Thursday, explosions were reported in Tripoli, as aircraft were heard flying overhead. Nato has been carrying out regular air strikes on the Libyan capital.
Migrant workers 'tortured'
The trio of investigators travelled to Libya to carry out the investigation, and met both sides in the conflict, as well as human rights groups and medical professionals, and families of those detained."
The UN mission also said opposition forces were guilty of abuses that would constitute war crimes, although they were not as numerous.
Earlier, Nato extended its mission in Libya by a further 90 days.
The UN investigators' report, released on Wednesday in Geneva, was carried out by a team of three human rights experts.
Early on Thursday, explosions were reported in Tripoli, as aircraft were heard flying overhead. Nato has been carrying out regular air strikes on the Libyan capital.
Migrant workers 'tortured'
The trio of investigators travelled to Libya to carry out the investigation, and met both sides in the conflict, as well as human rights groups and medical professionals, and families of those detained."
Health Official Says E. Coli Strain Was Previously Unknown - NYTimes.com
Health Official Says E. Coli Strain Was Previously Unknown - NYTimes.com: "BERLIN — The World Health Organization said Thursday that an unusually lethal strain of E. coli, which has infected more than 1,500 people in Germany, mystified public health officials and threatened to touch off panic in Europe, was a previously unknown variant of the bacteria, raising new concerns about the extent and severity of the contagion."
Snooki -- One Big Pain in the Neck | TMZ.com
Snooki -- One Big Pain in the Neck | TMZ.com: "After being taken into custody for crashing into a police car in Italy yesterday, Snooki was spotted shooting scenes of 'Jersey Shore' on Tuesday wearing -- and then taking off -- a neck brace."
Conflicting Reports Over Death Of Katya Koren, 19-Year-Old 'Muslim' Beauty Queen, Emerge
Conflicting Reports Over Death Of Katya Koren, 19-Year-Old 'Muslim' Beauty Queen, Emerge: "Ukrainian officials have slammed media claims that a teenage beauty queen was stoned to death by three Muslim suspects who alleged the 19-year-old violated Sharia law by participating in pageants.
As CBS reports, the body of Katya Koren was found in a forest near her home in the Crimea region of Ukraine one week after her disappearance. Her battered body had been partially buried.
Initial media reports said three Muslim youths were responsible for the murder, claiming Koren's death had been justified under Islam, the Daily Mail is reporting. One of the three suspects, named as 16-year-old Bihal Gaziev, was quoted as telling police that Katya had 'violated the laws of Sharia,' and that he has no regrets about her death."
As CBS reports, the body of Katya Koren was found in a forest near her home in the Crimea region of Ukraine one week after her disappearance. Her battered body had been partially buried.
Initial media reports said three Muslim youths were responsible for the murder, claiming Koren's death had been justified under Islam, the Daily Mail is reporting. One of the three suspects, named as 16-year-old Bihal Gaziev, was quoted as telling police that Katya had 'violated the laws of Sharia,' and that he has no regrets about her death."
John Boehner Fights Foreclosure Relief As Housing Crisis Ravages His District
John Boehner Fights Foreclosure Relief As Housing Crisis Ravages His District: "Regina Moore has lived in her Hamilton, Ohio, home, in the heart of House Speaker John Boehner's district, for 50 years.
Her husband passed away in 2005, and in 2008 she took out a new $72,000 mortgage so she could afford to pay her medical bills. She had a steady job, having worked at the Champion Printing Company in Cincinnati for more than two decades. Her monthly payments on her $86,000 home amounted to about $450.
It was a simple mortgage for a simple home -- no exploding payments or swimming pools.
But last year, at the age of 70, Regina lost her job, and her $1100 a month Social Security payment wasn't enough to make ends meet. She called her son, Jeff, who works three part-time jobs, to ask for help.
'She had a mortgage on her home and just couldn't afford to pay the bills anymore,' Jeff said. 'She went through a period where she was embarrassed. She didn't want to say that she couldn't get a job or couldn't pay her mortgage. And finally it got to a point where she was facing foreclosure and called me.'"
Her husband passed away in 2005, and in 2008 she took out a new $72,000 mortgage so she could afford to pay her medical bills. She had a steady job, having worked at the Champion Printing Company in Cincinnati for more than two decades. Her monthly payments on her $86,000 home amounted to about $450.
It was a simple mortgage for a simple home -- no exploding payments or swimming pools.
But last year, at the age of 70, Regina lost her job, and her $1100 a month Social Security payment wasn't enough to make ends meet. She called her son, Jeff, who works three part-time jobs, to ask for help.
'She had a mortgage on her home and just couldn't afford to pay the bills anymore,' Jeff said. 'She went through a period where she was embarrassed. She didn't want to say that she couldn't get a job or couldn't pay her mortgage. And finally it got to a point where she was facing foreclosure and called me.'"
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Pentagon: Cyber Attacks an 'Act of War'
Multisource political news, world news, and entertainment news analysis by Newsy.com
New photos of spy plane launch Area 51 intrigue | The Upshot Yahoo! News
New photos of spy plane launch Area 51 intrigue | The Upshot Yahoo! News: "Few things capture the public's curiosity like Area 51. The top-secret military base (which doesn't officially exist) has been the subject of conspiracy theories for decades. What actually went on there? Something tells us we'll never know for sure. However, a recently revealed series of photographs provides some tantalizing new clues.
The photos, which were published by National Geographic, show a titanium A-12 spy plane. In one image, the satisfyingly sci-fi-looking plane hangs upside down while it is prepared for radar testing. In another shot, a group of officials with heavy equipment 'remove all traces of the A-12 spy plane' after it went down in the Utah desert in 1963."
The photos, which were published by National Geographic, show a titanium A-12 spy plane. In one image, the satisfyingly sci-fi-looking plane hangs upside down while it is prepared for radar testing. In another shot, a group of officials with heavy equipment 'remove all traces of the A-12 spy plane' after it went down in the Utah desert in 1963."
Waitresses sue casino over skimpy costumes - Business - US business - msnbc.com
Waitresses sue casino over skimpy costumes - Business - US business - msnbc.com: "It's the case of the waitresses vs. the casino.
Nine cocktail waitresses who say they were fired from the Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City, N.J., because they could not fit into the new costumes the casino wanted them to wear have filed a lawsuit against the hotel.
Their attorney? Gloria Allred, the Los Angeles-based lawyer famed for her involvement in some high-profile cases, including the O.J. Simpson, Michael Jackson and Scott Peterson cases.
Allred announced the lawsuit at a news conference Tuesday in front of the casino. The nine cocktail waitresses, ranging in age from 39 to 66, say they were fired back in March because they were too old to wear the new, 1920s flapper-styled costumes.
'I feel used,' said Elsa Hernandez a 57-year-old grandmother and former cocktail server at the resort. 'Like I've been thrown out like a piece of trash.'
Allred claims that the casino fired the women because they did not meet uniform requirements and replaced the waitresses with younger women. The waitresses say they were humiliated during an audition in which they tried on costumes that were too small."
Nine cocktail waitresses who say they were fired from the Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City, N.J., because they could not fit into the new costumes the casino wanted them to wear have filed a lawsuit against the hotel.
Their attorney? Gloria Allred, the Los Angeles-based lawyer famed for her involvement in some high-profile cases, including the O.J. Simpson, Michael Jackson and Scott Peterson cases.
Allred announced the lawsuit at a news conference Tuesday in front of the casino. The nine cocktail waitresses, ranging in age from 39 to 66, say they were fired back in March because they were too old to wear the new, 1920s flapper-styled costumes.
'I feel used,' said Elsa Hernandez a 57-year-old grandmother and former cocktail server at the resort. 'Like I've been thrown out like a piece of trash.'
Allred claims that the casino fired the women because they did not meet uniform requirements and replaced the waitresses with younger women. The waitresses say they were humiliated during an audition in which they tried on costumes that were too small."
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)