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Skip to comments.Report: Obama Arranging Tehran Visit for Next Year
Posted on 12/02/2013 8:05:51 AM PST by Sub-Driver
Report: Obama Arranging Tehran Visit for Next Year Daniel Halper December 2, 2013 10:46 AM
The Kuwaiti news outlet Al-Jarida reports that President Obama is seeking to arrange a trip to Tehran, Iran next year.
The headline of the article reads, "Obama would like to visit Tehran, official invitation after details resolved."
"Al-Jarida has learned from a U.S. diplomat that President Barack Obama is seeking to visit Tehran in the middle of next year," the report reads, based on a translation using Google Translate.
"The source said that the desire to visit is shared, and that Tehran and Washington are waiting for the conclusion of the arrangements prior to Iranian President Hassan Rohani issuing an official invitation to his American counterpart to visit Tehran.
"He pointed out that the most important detail that is outstanding regarding the meeting is the question of a meeting with Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and the possibility of not holding the meeting.
"The source said that Obama was waiting for the invitation to devote his new administration's policy in the region based on the principle of non-military involvement and balance. He wants to be the first U.S. president to visit Iran since the Khomeini revolution in order to show that he is an advocate of peace and dialogue even with those who chant death to America."
The article was originally published in Arabic.
A State Department spokeswoman did not respond to a request for confirmation of the Al-Jarida report.
But in an email, one former high ranking U.S. national security official says, "I don't believe it."
Last weekend, President Obama, in announcing a nuclear deal between the U.S., other countries, and Iran, said, "the United States -- together with our close allies and partners -- took an important first step toward a comprehensive solution that addresses our concerns with the Islamic Republic of Irans nuclear program."
Obama concluded those remarks by saying, "Ultimately, only diplomacy can bring about a durable solution to the challenge posed by Irans nuclear program. As President and Commander-in-Chief, I will do what is necessary to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. But I have a profound responsibility to try to resolve our differences peacefully, rather than rush towards conflict. Today, we have a real opportunity to achieve a comprehensive, peaceful settlement, and I believe we must test it.
"The first step that weve taken today marks the most significant and tangible progress that weve made with Iran since I took office. And now we must use the months ahead to pursue a lasting and comprehensive settlement that would resolve an issue that has threatened our security -- and the security of our allies -- for decades. It wont be easy, and huge challenges remain ahead. But through strong and principled diplomacy, the United States of America will do our part on behalf of a world of greater peace, security, and cooperation among nations."
Do the Iranis want Obama there? After what happened after his trip to Egypt, that would be maybe not a good idea.
Basically, there's no country in Europe eager to see the guy....after the NSA business. Same for Russia, China, and half of Asia. So I'd expect trips to Libya, Iran, North Korea, and Tonga for 2014.
Maybe he's planning on defecting?
Making living arrangements I hope.
Yeah. He's gonna 'surprise' fly in there unannounced and bring them a Turkey Allah Thanksgiving Dinner....or should that be Kebabs and Goat Tray?
Maybe they can break that 444 day record.
Like Nixon going to China...but Nixon had earlier been hostile to Red China.
This is as much proof as anyone would ever need that his agenda is to strengthen radical Islam.
One can argue against that by pointing at Nixon's China trip and say, by analogy, was Nixon's agenda to strengthen communism?
Awwwwww, how sweet! An old fashioned homecoming...
He is more cordial, friendly, and acquiescent toward Iranians than he is toward Americans who happen to be Republicans. It's a shame he doesn't hold the same hostility toward our enemies that he does for our own citizens.
Can they keep him, or at least Valerie Jarrett...
The question is begging to be asked.
Why is Obama moving at break-neck speed to fully reinstate the Iranian theocracy? When the studends protested in 2010 Obama did nothing and the protesters were captured, jailed, and tortured. Now Obama can't seem to do enough for Iran. Why?
Haven't they killed and caused the death of enough American soldiers? Aern't they determined to wipe Israel off the map?
Just what is Obama really up to? And why is no one really asking?
Iran is Muslim Terrorism Central
So Obama will be right at home.
They can take photos of Obama standing next to the record number of centerfuges still running at full speed thanks to him.
It's the old 'Nixon went to China' ploy. Takes the media focus off troubles at home...............
Jihadist training?
Maybe they can take him prisoner....
or is he scouting for a new home after his term ends?
What, back to America?
so is amnesty international clamoring about this?
Maybe they'll keep him?
No way this can be true. I call BS.
By being in Iran, he prevents Israel from attacking Iran's nuclear facilities. The longer he keeps the date uncertain, the more difficult it is for Israel to schedule an attack.
Yeah, that worked out SOOO well for us, with Chinese mass theft of much of our most advanced military technologies, and trade imbalance that has left us owning them $1 trillion.
Maybe Obama can visit Robert Levinson and tell him that his friends and family are still praying for his release.
Maybe Iran will 'kidnap Obama,' AKA welcome him home and show him his new villa with bowling alley and golf course and 72 male virgins as reward for destroying the USA.
I hope they keep him.
first step in Obama saalaama's plan to be immaculated as the 12th imam, after he finally gets through destroying western civilization
Obama is just finishing what Carter started.
Obama has effectively isolated Israel. Obama has sold Israel down the river for less than a bowl of lentils. And the American Jews are ecstatic. As long as American Jews can keep playing the harlot to liberalism they will willingly and cheerfully allow their brethren to face a different type of holocaust.
They can put him up in the local jail.
Obama wants to be there when Iran nukes Israel.
He loves the smell of burnt Jewish flesh in the morning.
So he can bow to them.
No, Muslim Hussein wants to pose at the well where the Imam is living down the well in Iran. He can tell the Imam in the well that America gives up so maybe the Imam will come out of the well and they can have a picture made together before the Imam destroys all Christians in the world to bring about an Islamic world. See, both of them get what they wanted. I need an adult beverage after writing this.
I think you've got the answer as to why Obama would go to Iran. He needs to pay homage to the Mullahs for their inspiration of progressive tactics.
Can the Israelis hold off nuking Iran until he's there? I'd sure hate to lose AF-1 though.
I'll donate a dollar to help pay for the trip.
Good points.
I suspect he (or ValJar) thinks this will help his legacy - - 1st US Prez to visit Iran in xxx years and he's the 1st Prez in a long time to "give peace a chance" with Iran. Perhaps they can sit around a table and smoke a peace (choom) pipe. I'm sure ValJar will accompany him, so she can see her homeland again.
Can they please keep him? He will be more at home there.
We can only hope.
Fixed for you.
Because what we see as incompetence and screwing up, Obama sees as doing a good job of following his Master Plan.
Tell them they can keep Jimmy Carter too!
If Israel has to, they can engineer a provocation and strike Iran. (As Patton suggested as a way to take out the Russians before we left Europe after WW2...p.s. He was right)
You beat me to the punch!!!
A lot of people are going to justiify this trip as similar in purpose as the Nixon/China trip implied...
Those people would be absolute nitwits if they did...
And you know, they will pounce on that like a cat on a rolled up ball of aluminum foil...
It is a cheap toy, but it'll get a lot of play...
This is all a buildup to the announcement that Iran has nukes,Obama is not going to do anything to stop Iran from getting Nukes,so he has to have an excuse.
The excuse will be,well Iran fooled us and attained nukes just like Israel,North Korea,China,Russia.
Don't worry as you can see they are willing to talk just like all the other powers,nothing to worry about here,we are just lucky I was smart enough to open discussions with our friends in Tehran
I think he may announced himself as the last Mufti... then the games will reeely begin.
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subset: commoncrawl


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Linden litter cleanup begins Saturday
The Columbus Dispatch - April 19, 2013 02:18 PM
Around 150 people will be hitting of the streets of the Linden neighborhood on Saturday to pick up trash and discarded tires as part of the neighborhood's annual cleanup effort.
The Linden Litter League will kick off at 9 a.m. from the Greater Linden Development Corp. offices at 1410 Cleveland Ave. Twenty-two teams of volunteers will be participating, said donna Hicho, the group's executive director. New volunteers are welcome.
In 2012, the Linden Litter League collected 899 bags of trash. Teams also planted flowers, mowed lawns and cleaned alleys and graffiti.
The teams will work every third Saturday through August, Hicho said.


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Hattie Carthan Playground
Hattie Carthan Playground
This playground is named to honor Hattie Carthan (1900–1984), a Bedford-Stuyvesant resident who always had an interest in trees, but whose environmental conservation efforts stemmed from watching the natural environment in her neighborhood deteriorate. When she moved into her home on Vernon Avenue, the street was lined with trees; by 1964 only three remained. Mrs. Carthan began replanting trees in the neighborhood and, in the process, helped create the Bedford-Stuyvesant Neighborhood Tree Corps as well as the Green Guerillas, a group that worked to beautify the city by planting seeds in abandoned lots.
A proponent of strong neighborhood associations, Carthan became the chairwoman of the Bedford-Stuyvesant Beautification Committee, which brought together one hundred block associations in a project that added over 1,500 trees to the neighborhood. Carthan also helped found the nearby Magnolia Tree Earth Center, in the garden that is named for her, on Lafayette and Marcy Avenues. A mural depicting Mrs. Carthan appears on the front of the center.
The playground, located between Monroe Street, Tompkins Avenue, Madison Street and Marcy Avenue, is jointly operated by the Department of Education and Parks. Built in 1964, alongside P.S. 305, now the Dr. Peter Ray School, the site was known simply as P.S. 305 Playground until 1995, when it was named for Carthan.
The playground was renovated between 1998 and 2000. With $1,123,000 in councilmanic funds, the ballfields and the playground were reconstructed. The park contains a comfort station with a weathervane, a drinking fountain, benches, play equipment with safety surfacing, a spray shower, game tables, and basketball and handball courts.
A treasured resource for neighborhood families, the Hattie Carthan Playground is a fitting tribute to its namesake, a local hero who made a difference in her community.
Directions to Hattie Carthan Playground
Hattie Carthan Playground Weather
- Tue
- Wed
- Thu
- Fri


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Solid Wood Reach-In Closet Organizer - Honey Maple
About this item
You'll never have to search for that specific article of clothing again!
This closet organizer is finished in a honey maple stain, crafted of 100% solid wood and accented with satin nickel hardware. The elegance of this John Louis Home closet system will add the finishing touch to your closet. Contains all the elements needed to provide you with a perfectly organized closet. Works well with reach-in closets up to 10' in length. Easy step-by-step instructions are included.
- Fits closets up to 10' in length
- 12" shelf depth
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- Three, 12" x 24" shelves
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- Four angle brackets
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- Step-by-step assembly instructions
Assembled Country
Component Country
Member reviews & questions
Ask & Answer
Policies & plans
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Shipping Information
Standard - 2 to 6 business days
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1 year limited, defects in materials and workmanship
Custom configured products are non-refundable. To request warranty service, you must call John Louis Inc. at 1-800- 480-6985.
If warranty service is required you must ship copy of receipt of purchase, enclose return address, and the defective product back to John Louis Inc. during the warranty period in its original or equivalent packaging, prepay shipping charges, and insure the shipment or accept the risk of loss or damage during shipment. John Louis Inc. will ship replacement products to you. John Louis Inc. reserves the right to modify its warranty at any time, in its sole discretion. Customer agrees that it will be bound by this agreement once the package is opened or its seal is broken.


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5 Steps for Search Engine Optimization in a Local Area
Businesses that serve a small local area always want data down to their neighbors for their SEO. I don't blame them, but unfortunately we can't spy on our neighbors through their windows without having some legal problems. So we turn to our great internet search tools to find out what our neighbors are looking for and how they put it into words. PROBLEM! There isn't enough data in Google for this area…
As a business that is pushing into the internet marketing world you have probably come across this problem when looking at a very specific geographical regions. I'm talking about towns, townships, small cities, and places where the town center may just be a post office!
We face this same problem with clients who sell to local cities and towns. Local search engine optimization tips are something our clients ask for. Here are the steps that I share with them.
Local Search Engine Optimization Guide
1.) Search the nation for insights
Go to the Google keyword tool and start digging through what the nation is doing ("local" represents your nation). Take the keyword terms that have brand significance for you and move on to step 2.
2.) Google Insights
Now you have some great keywords that you see opportunity with in the nation. Google Insights will let you focus on the geographic area you're interested in, but beware it can only go to a level where data supports it. You might not get all the way down to the city, but maybe only the state. That is still better that just a national search.
3.) Add geographic terms to that list
So now we have a nice list of industry terms that relate to our product or service. If we add geographic modifiers that represent the town, city, county, etc. We're off to a good start. However, we still don't know the "exact" strength of these terms for the specific area. UGH!
4.) Use a larger city
Westerville Ohio may be too small to provide significant search data. However, Columbus Ohio could be provide that valuable data, or even Cleveland or Cincinnati. All well within the realm of Ohio, but yes, each city has its own language. Drawing insights from bigger cities close by is still better than just using national or global results.
5.) Setup a PPC account
This strategy is highly recommended by many digital marketing experts, however, it is not free. Also beware if the bids are too low – you may not be able to gather enough data to draw statistically significant conclusions. Creating a PPC account is quick and easy. Set the geography for exactly where you want. In this case, Westerville Ohio. Plug in your high level keywords, a budget, a spend rate for the day, and some of your best marketing copy (BONUS – Using A/B testing on ads will allow you to test you marketing copy for other areas of the website!). Turn it on and let the data come to you!
So you have a nice list of industry terms that you see opportunity with throughout the nation. You have used other Google tools to try to dig as deep as you can toward the city, town, or county. This includes even looking at neighboring cities that are larger. Finally, you plug these terms into a PPC campaign and you let Google tell you exactly what search queries people are entering to find your ad, and then click through to your targeted landing page. (We will discuss use of targeted landing pages later).
Take your PPC data and put it into a report. Hone in on the keywords that are powerful and focus on that in your content and meta data. You will also have powerful "negative keywords" which are terms that will only bring in junk traffic or people looking for something else.
I hope this helps you! We know it can be frustrating. Do you have any tools that you would call your "bread and butter" for this type of research?
Related posts:
- The Biggest Search Engine Optimization Mistake
- Search Engine Academy chooses Innoblogs as its business blogging software
- Social Media Optimization (SMO) – passing up SEO?
- Balancing Keyword Density for Content Optimization
One Response to "5 Steps for Search Engine Optimization in a Local Area"
SEOPost.com Great post, thanks for sharing. …
Great post, thanks for sharing. …
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SEOPost.com Great post, thanks for sharing. …
Great post, thanks for sharing. …


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Topic: Root issue
Hello everyone! I currently follow a RoR tutorial for a few weeks (that of Michael Hartl), but now I am facing a problem :
- I have written in routes.rb the following line : root: to => 'pages#home'
- I also removed public/index.html
But the home page of my application is still the default "Welcome aboard" when I go to localhost:3000
Yet when I go to another page and I created a link with <% = link_to "Home", root_path %> It works : I reach the desired page
Thank you in advance for your explanations !
Last edited by Marty76 (2013-04-28 10:49:44)


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Microsoft Corp. will commercially launch its next-generation Windows 8 operating system in August, 2012. The software giant is in hurry to release its new OS as it needs to quickly address the booming market of media tablets and other ultra-portable devices. As a result, Microsoft will quickly update its new OS to improve feature-set and will unveil Windows 9 in late 2014.
The roll-out of Windows 8 for the general public will begin at the Consumer Electronics Show 2012 when Microsoft introduces Windows 8 beta, WinStore beta as well as online market <ONM> community technology preview (CTP), according to a roadmap of Microsoft published by MS nerd blog. The release candidate of Windows 8 will be unveiled at Mix 2012 in April and the world's largest software designer will release its next-gen OS to manufacturing in June. In August Microsoft will launch Windows 8, online market <ONM>, Windows Phone 8 and Xbox Store.
It is interesting to note that already at Build 2012 in September, 2012, the software giant will give developer preview (DP) of Windows 8 product upgrade (PU). The beta of Windows 8 PU will be available at CES 2013 and the product upgrade (possibly, service pack 1) will be released to manufacturing in June, 2013.
Based on the roadmap, which authenticity cannot be verified, Microsoft Windows 9 will be released commercially a little bit more than two years after Windows 8: in November, 2014. The software maker will give developer preview in September, 2013, will launch Windows 9 beta in January '14, will issue release candidate in April '14 and will release to manufacturing in September '14.
In case the timeline of the roadmap is correct, then it looks like Microsoft will be very aggressive in terms of new products introductions going forward. Back in the old days the company introduced a brand-new operating system every three years, but it took Microsoft more than five to develop Windows Vista and more than three to create Windows 7. As it can be observed, the firm wants now to unveil a new major Windows operating system every two years in order to constantly remain on the leading edge of technology and take advantage of the latest hardware.
Microsoft did not comment on the news-story.
Tags: Microsoft, Windows, Windows 9, Windows 8


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Yoko Ono has thanked Paul McCartney for saying that she didn't split up The Beatles.
John Lennon's widow, who has long been held responsible for the demise of the Fab Four, thanked McCartney for finally putting the issue to rest and described him as a "brave man".
In an interview with The Guardian, Yoko Ono said: "I thought people knew that I was not responsible, but surprisingly, many people still felt that. He was very brave. So I'd like to say 'Thank you, Paul. I love you, we love you'."
Last month, Paul McCartney said Yoko Ono did not end The Beatles. The singer told David Frost, in a new interview to be aired this month, that her relationship with John Lennon was not the main reason why the band ended.
"She certainly didn't break the group up, the group was breaking up," said McCartney. "When Yoko came along, part of her attraction was her avant garde side, her view of things, so she showed him another way to be, which was very attractive to him. So it was time for John to leave, he was definitely going to leave one way or another."
Meanwhile, both Paul McCartney and Yoko Ono have contributed songs to be used in the soundtrack to new Judd Apatow movie This Is 40.


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iHerb カスタマーレビュー
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does the job
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we need a lot of.. lube. and this is great, not tested on animals and such.
Been using this exclusively for a couple of years now
5047457829053537877により Sep 09, 2013 に掲載
Never had a big issue with this product. The "touch of vanilla" is light and pleasant smelling. It might take 5-10 minutes to get tacky/dry, but rehydrates with additional application. Better than some non-natural alternatives we've tried. Knowing and being OK with the ingredients used is a major plus.
Ok product
Reviewer1988938により Dec 12, 2011 に掲載
Works ok but still a little irritating.
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left me irritated and in pain..
商品 1 - 5 の合計 5


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Meaningful springbreak
Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Build your resume. Serve your community. Learn conflict resolution skills. Problem solve. Practice team building. Learn leadership skills.
All are good reasons for students to sign up for one of the trips the University's Volunteer Connection office offers as an alternative to the beach trips many choose for their annual one-week spring semester break. But there's an even better reason, according to Tim Sahli, who was one of two student leaders for this year's volunteer service trip to the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation in Lame Deer, Mont.
"Instead of sitting on a beach drinking a Corona," said the junior Spanish education major from Sartell, "I wanted to do something that was meaningful." That was Sahli's motivation in 2007, when he took his first trip to Lame Deer to work with young people. The experience was so worthwhile, in fact, that this year he applied to be one of two student leaders for the trip – the only way to be certain he could participate a second time.
Alternative spring break trips are so popular with St. Cloud State students that there's a competitive application process and first-timers are typically given priority, according to Jim Knutson-Kolodzne, staff trip advisor for the last two years and director of the American Indian Center on campus. "They want as many students as possible to get this opportunity," Sahli said of the Volunteer Connection interest in bringing a new group of students to Lame Deer every year. This year 10 students, including Sahli, had that opportunity.
The group's assignment was straightforward: participate in activities such as crafts, games and sports with children in grades one to six and join high school students for open gym nights, all at the community center. "We're not going out there to save anyone or change their lives," Sahli said before the trip. "We're just going to help the community."
Sahli and his classmates came away with more than team building, problem solving and leadership skills. "These are some pretty awesome kids," Sahli said of the youngsters he's met during two trips. "They're really loving, they're thankful for what they have, they appreciate what comes into their lives."
Each time the visitors returned to the community center, Sahli said, "You could see the kids' faces light up � they really tried to get to know us, they asked if they could stay later, they wanted us to hang out with them."
The children also taught the college students the difference giving of one's time and attention can make: "Most of the kids don't have all the opportunities someone in St. Cloud would have – so when we do what we think is simple, it means a lot to them," Sahli said. "You realize that even small things can be a big deal."
Sahli said he and his classmates are in complete agreement on what they didn't like about the week: "The hardest part was seeing the injustice" in the lack of opportunities available, the financial, political and institutional limitations put on children on the reservation, Sahli explained for the group. "That really bummed us out." That's part of the learning experience, said Knutson-Kolodzne. "It's a culture shock," a shock that left the St. Cloud State students with a better understanding of the meaning of "white privilege" – and a desire to continue to explore diversity and confront inequity.


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Village board will weigh in on Lake Placid ER conversion
LAKE PLACID – Village Mayor Craig Randall said his board will likely weigh in formally on Adirondack Health's controversial plan to convert the emergency room at its Lake Placid hospital to an urgent-care center after a pair of upcoming public meetings on the proposal.
Speaking at Monday night's village board meeting, Randall said North Elba Supervisor Roby Politi has asked his board to attend the meetings to hear what the community has to say. The mayor encouraged his board to do the same.
"And then I think we would both respectively or perhaps jointly make a strong resolution about our positions," Randall said. "I do think it's appropriate for this board and the town board to take a stand on it. I don't know what you gentlemen are hearing in the community, but my sense is this has not been well received."
While no decision has been made, Adirondack Health has said the volume of patients at the Lake Placid ER doesn't justify keeping it open, that it isn't equipped with modern medical technology, and that most seriously ill patients already bypass it and are taken to the Saranac Lake ER. Although it wouldn't be open around the clock and would have fewer staff, the organization has said the urgent-care clinic would provide "the same level of care." The move, which has been endorsed by the Adirondack Health medical staff, would also save the hospital an estimated $1 million.
Yet the proposal continues to spark concern in the Lake Placid community. Randall held up more than 100 pages of petitions, each containing 15 signatures, he's received in support of keeping the Lake Placid ER open. He said he attended an Adirondack Health-hosted meeting on the subject last Friday with other local leaders and elected officials. The mayor also listened to a presentation from Adirondack Health officials at a recent meeting of the Lake Placid Business Association.
"They are making a case for the future of our Lake Placid emergency room facility," Randall said. "Obviously at this point they are saying that can be replaced by an urgent-care center with no loss of service to the community.
"The problems are many for the community," the mayor continued. "I think they've done a good job of deciding what works for the institution, but there has been no communication whatsoever with the EMS system in each of our communities, and it certainly will have significant impacts on our volunteer ambulance squads in all of our communities."
Leaders of ambulance squads in Wilmington, Keene and Keene Valley have said they would no longer bring patients to Lake Placid if the ER is converted to a 12-hour urgent care, and would instead bring them to the ER at Elizabethtown Community Hospital.
"That would likely mean that the number of admissions to AMC, when they're already showing declining admissions to the hospital, would be bypassing them completely and going to the east," Randall said.
"They're going to lose a lot of income if people go to Plattsburgh or Elizabethtown," said Trustee Peter Holderied.
Randall said the Lake Placid Volunteer Ambulance Service made 1,442 runs in 2012, based on statistics he said he was provided.
"Think about that if we have to have additional time for each run to get to an emergency room," the mayor said. "There has been some discussion that the squad could stop at an urgi-center. The problem in New York state is an ambulance squad cannot bill for stopping at an urgi-center. In theory, if they're staffing down the urgi-center, the question becomes, will the appropriate medical staff be available to take care of that patient?"
Randall served on the Placid Memorial Hospital board when it merged with the General Hospital of Saranac Lake.
"One of the most contentious issues in that negotiation was the continuation of emergency room services for Lake Placid," he said. "The agreement that was finally struck was they would continue to provide 24-7 emergency room services.
"None of this makes a lot of sense. (Adirondack Health's) board has an obligation to not only consider the views of the various medical people at AMC who are promoting this, but they also need to consider the greater health needs of the community at large."
Randall said local residents concerned about the proposal are hosting an organizational meeting at 7:30 p.m. April 29 at Nicola's restaurant on Main Street. He said he expects it will be well attended. Adirondack Health is hosting two public meetings at 6 p.m. on May 1 and 7 p.m. on May 8, both at the Lake Placid Center for the Arts.
Contact Chris Knight at 518-891-2600 ext. 24 or firstname.lastname@example.com.


text:
Brady Quinn to Start for Chiefs Against Tampa Bay on Sunday
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Department of History, Political Science and Philosophy
The objective of the Department of History, Political Science and Philosophy is to provide a thorough and dynamic liberal arts education with a multicultural perspective. The majors and subject areas offered by the department are structured to prepare graduates for further education or for careers in pertinent fields.
Students selecting a major in the department are expected to gain knowledge appropriate to their subject area and to demonstrate what has been learned through courses, internships, and extracurricular activities. Since the process of learning is ongoing, graduates of the department are expected to stay in touch with faculty and to offer insights and advice to current students when possible.
The department faculty is a collection of outstanding scholars and dedicated teachers engaged in active research in a variety of areas. Its research and publication record is second to none on the DSU campus. It has won the annual Faculty Excellence Awards in research, teaching and service a number of times. Students have the opportunity to work closely with these professors, especially during their Senior Capstone experience. The faculty pledges to collectively do their best in the areas of teaching, research, and service so as to ensure that students will derive maximum benefits from their matriculation.
Curriculum guide and departmental brochure.
HISTORY MAJOR: There are two History curricula: a straight History and a History with a Social Studies Concentration. A student who chooses History as a major must complete the requirements of either one of these curricula, and must satisfy the General Education Requirements prescribed by the University. A total of thirty six (36) hours of history are required. A student must complete History 101, 102, 201 and 202, or 101, 102, 203 and 204. All majors must also take History 205, 290, 446 and 475. The remaining twelve hours must be at the 300-400 level in either of two concentrations: American and World. History majors must also have six hours of Social Science electives (to be met with 300-400 level course in Economics and other business courses, Mass Communications, Political Science, Sociology and Criminal Justice, Psychology, Education, and other social sciences.), and six hours of Arts and Humanities electives (300-400) level course in Art, Art History, Philosophy, English and Foreign Languages, and other humanities courses). All history majors must earn a 'C' or better in all history courses, General Education core courses, and other required courses as designated on the curriculum sheet.
PREREQUISITES: Prerequisites are noted in the course descriptions.
POLITICAL SCIENCE MAJOR: To graduate with a major in political science a student must satisfy the General Education Requirements prescribed by the University and complete thirty-six (36) hours course work in political science at a grade of 'C' or better. These include the following required courses: PS 103 (Introduction to Political Science); PS 200 (American National Government); PS 210 (Contemporary Political Ideologies); PS 220 (Comparative Government); PS 230 (International Politics). PS 214 (Research Methods, or its equivalent as approved by the Chair), and PS 475 (Senior Capstone). In addition, students must take and pass with a 'C' or better 18 hours of political science elective courses at the 300-400 level. Majors must also take and pass the following required courses with a grade of 'C' or better: Economics 201 (Macroeconomics); Economics 202 (Microeconomics); Philosophy 101 (Critical Thinking) and another three hours of Philosophy electives. Although not required for a major in political science, students who intend to pursue an MA, MPA, or Ph.D. are strongly encouraged to take Elementary Statistics, Advanced Statistics, and other research-related courses. With the approval of the political science advisor and/or the department chair, students may substitute up to nine hours of PS 330 (Field Work) and/or PS 470 (Internship) for an equivalent amount of credit in the requirement of 18 hours.
View the political science curriculum.
PHILOSOPHY: The philosophy courses are designed to deepen and broaden the student's interest in and understanding of certain fundamental issues concerning the nature of existence, knowledge, and values. This involves critical reflection on the justification of basic human beliefs (e.g., free will, the existence of God) and analysis of the concepts in terms of which such beliefs are expressed. See course listings in order to determine the specific philosophy courses that are included in the University's general education curriculum. While no philosophy course has a prerequisite, it is strongly recommended that students complete Philosophy 101 (Critical Thinking), or Philosophy 201 (Introduction to Philosophy), preferably both, before taking any 300 or 400 level philosophy course.
View the philosophy minor curriculum.
HISTORY MINOR: For a minor in history, students must pass with a 'C' or better twenty-one (21) semester hours as follows: History 101, 102, 290 and twelve additional hours of which nine hours must be at or above the 300 level. At least 3 hours each in World and American history must be included.
PHILOSOPHY MINOR: For a minor in philosophy, a student must pass with a 'C' or better fifteen hours of philosophy courses distributed as follows: Philosophy 201, 206, either 300 or 302 and any two electives in philosophy. Students interested in a minor in philosophy may obtain further information from the department office, and also from the philosophy faculty.
POLITICAL SCIENCE MINOR: A minor in political science requires twenty-one (21) hours of political science course work with a grade of C or better in each course. This is distributed as follows: PS 103 (Introduction to Political Science); PS 200 (American National Government); PS 210 (Contemporary Political Ideologies); PS 220 (Comparative Government); PS 230 (International Politics); and six additional hours at the 300 and 400 levels.
Information on the law studies minor.
Faculty Profile
Dr. Akwasi P. Osei
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Resources for the study of history, political science and philosophy


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Clouded leopard
The clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) is a felid found from the Himalayan foothills through mainland Southeast Asia into China, and has been classified as vulnerable in 2008 by IUCN. Its total population size is suspected to be fewer than 10,000 mature individuals, with a decreasing population trend and no single population numbering more than 1,000 adults.[2]
The Sunda clouded leopard (Neofelis diardi) found on Sumatra and Borneo is genetically distinct and has been considered a separate species since 2006.[3][4]
The fur of clouded leopards is of a dark grey or ochreous ground-colour, often largely obliterated by black and dark dusky-grey blotched pattern. There are black spots on the head, and the ears are black. Partly fused or broken up stripes run from the corner of the eyes over the cheek, from the corner of the mouth to the neck, and along the nape to the shoulders. Elongated blotches continue down the spine and form a single median stripe on the loins. Two large blotches of dark dusky-grey hair on the side of the shoulders are each emphasized posteriorly by a dark stripe, which passes on to the fore leg and breaks up into irregular spots. The flanks are marked by dark dusky-grey irregular blotches bordered behind by long, oblique irregularly curved or looped stripes. These blotches yielding the clouded pattern suggest the English name of the cat. The underparts and legs are spotted, and the tail is marked by large irregular paired spots.[5]
Melanistic clouded leopards are uncommon. Clouded leopards weigh between 11.5 and 23 kg (25 and 51 lb). Females vary in head-to-body length from 68.6 to 94 cm (27.0 to 37 in), with a 61 to 82 cm (24 to 32 in) long tail. Males are larger at 81 to 108 cm (32 to 43 in) with a 74 to 91 cm (29 to 36 in) long tail.[6] Their shoulder height varies from 50 to 55 cm (20 to 22 in).[7]
Their legs are short and stout, with broad paws. They have exceptionally long, piercing canine teeth, the upper being about three times as long as the basal width of the socket.[5] The upper pair of canines may measure 4 cm (1.6 in) or longer.[6]
Distribution and habitat
Clouded leopards occur from the Himalayan foothills in Nepal and India to Myanmar, Bhutan, Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Indochina, and in China south of the Yangtze River. They occur marginally in mixed-evergreen forests of the northeastern and southeastern parts of Bangladesh, and are regionally extinct in Taiwan.[2] They prefer open- or closed-forest habitats to other habitat types.[8] They have been reported from relatively open, dry tropical forest in Myanmar and in Thailand.[9]
In India they occur in northern West Bengal, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura.[10][11][12] In Assam they have been observed in the forests of but have not been recorded in protected areas.[13] In the Himalayas they were camera-trapped at altitudes of 2,500–3,720 m (8,200–12,200 ft) between April 2008 and May 2010 in the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim.[14]
Clouded leopards were believed to be extinct in Nepal, the last published record being from 1863. But in 1987 and 1988, four individuals were found in the southern part of the country, close to Chitwan National Park and in the Pokhara Valley. These findings extended their known range westward suggesting that they are able to survive and breed in degraded woodlands and scrub that previously supported moist subtropical semi-deciduous forest.[15]
Distribution of subspecies
At present, the following three subspecies are recognized:[16]
- Neofelis nebulosa nebulosa (Griffith, 1821) — lives in Southern China to eastern Myanmar;
- Neofelis nebulosa macrosceloides (Hodgson, 1853) — lives in Nepal to Myanmar;
- Neofelis nebulosa brachyura (Swinhoe, 1862) — used to live in Taiwan, and is considered extinct. The last confirmed sighting dates to 1989, when the skin from a small individual was found in the Taroko area.[17]
Ecology and behavior
Clouded leopards are the most talented climbers among the cats. In captivity, they have been observed to climb down vertical tree trunks head first, and hang on to branches with their hind paws bent around branchings of tree limbs. They are capable of supination and can even hang down from branches only by bending their hind paws and their tail around them. When jumping down, they keep hanging on to a branch this way until the very last moment. They can climb on horizontal branches with their back to the ground, and in this position make short jumps forward. When balancing on thin branches, they use their long tail to steer. They can easily jump up to 1.2 m (3.9 ft) high.[18]
Clouded leopards have been observed to scent mark in captivity by urine spraying and head-rubbing on prominent objects. Presumably such habits are used to mark their territory in the wild, although the size of their home ranges is unknown. Like other big cats, they do not appear able to purr, but they otherwise have a wide range of vocalisations, including mewing, hissing, growling, moaning, and snorting. Apart from information stemming from observations of captive clouded leopards, little is known of their natural history and behavior in the wild. Early accounts depict them as rare, secretive, arboreal and nocturnal denizens of dense primary forest. More recent observations suggest that they may not be as arboreal and nocturnal as previously thought. They may use trees as day time rest sites but also spend a significant proportion of time on the ground. Some daytime movement has been observed suggesting that they are not strictly nocturnal but crepuscular. However, the time of day when they are active depends on their prey and the level of human disturbance.[6]
Their partly nocturnal and far-ranging behaviour, their low densities, and the fact they inhabit densely vegetated habitats and remote areas makes the censusing and monitoring of clouded leopards extremely difficult. Consequently, little is known about their behaviour and status. Available information on their ecology is anecdotal, based on local interviews and a few sighting reports.[19]
Home ranges have only been estimated in Thailand:
- Four individuals were radio-collared in Phu Khieo Wildlife Sanctuary from April 2000 to February 2003. Home ranges of two females were 25.7 km2 (9.9 sq mi) and 22.9 km2 (8.8 sq mi), and of two males 29.7 km2 (11.5 sq mi) and 49.1 km2 (19.0 sq mi).[8]
- Two individuals were radio-collared during a study from 1997 to 1999 in the Khao Yai National Park. The home range of one female was 39.4 km2 (15.2 sq mi), of the one male 42 km2 (16 sq mi). Both individuals had a core area of 2.9 km2 (1.1 sq mi).[20]
Little is known of the feeding ecology of clouded leopards. Their prey includes both arboreal and terrestrial vertebrates.[6] Pocock presumed that they are adapted for preying upon herbivorous mammals of considerable bulk because of their powerful build, the deep penetration of their bite, attested by their long canines.[5] Confirmed prey species include hog deer, slow loris, brush-tailed porcupine, Malayan pangolin and Indochinese ground squirrel.[8] Known prey species in China include barking deer and pheasants.[21] Captive clouded leopards also eat eggs and some vegetation.[citation needed]
Both males and females average 26 months at first reproduction. Estrus last 6 days on average, estrus cycle averages 30 days. After a gestation period of 93±6 days females give birth to a litter of one to five, most often three cubs.[22]
Initially, the young are blind and helpless, much like the young of many other cats, and weigh from 140 to 280 grams (4.9 to 9.9 oz). Unlike adults, the kittens' spots are "solid" — completely dark rather than dark rings. The young can see within about 10 days of birth, are active within five weeks, and are fully weaned at around three months of age. They attain the adult coat pattern at around six months, and probably become independent after around ten months. Females are able to bear one litter each year.[6]
In captivity they have an average lifespan of 11 years. One individual has lived to be almost 17 years old.[23]
Many of the remaining forest areas are too small to ensure the long-term persistence of clouded leopard populations.[19] They are threatened by habitat loss following large–scale deforestation and commercial poaching for the wildlife trade. Skins, claws and teeth are offered for decoration and clothing, bones and meat as substitute for tiger in traditional Asian medicines and tonics, and live animals for the pet trade. Few poaching incidents have been documented, but all range states are believed to have some degree of commercial poaching. In recent years, substantial domestic markets existed in Indonesia, Myanmar and Vietnam.[24][25]
In Myanmar, 301 body parts of at least 279 clouded leopards, mostly skins and skeletons, were observed in four markets surveyed between 1991 to 2006. Three of the surveyed markets are situated on international borders with China and Thailand, and cater to international buyers, although clouded leopards are completely protected under Myanmar's national legislation. Effective implementation and enforcement of CITES is considered inadequate.[26]
Neofelis nebulosa is listed in CITES Appendix I and protected over most of its range. Hunting is banned in Bangladesh, China, India, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. It is not legally protected outside Bhutan's protected areas. Hunting is regulated in Laos. No information about its protection status is available from Cambodia.[22] These bans, however, are poorly enforced in India, Malaysia, and Thailand.[24]
In the United States the clouded leopard is listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act, further prohibiting trade in the animals or any parts or products made from them.[1]
In captivity
Early captive breeding programs involving clouded leopards were not very successful, largely due to ignorance of courtship activity among clouded leopards in the wild. Experience has taught keepers that introducing pairs of clouded leopards at a young age gives opportunities for the pair to bond and breed successfully. Males have the reputation of being aggressive towards females. Facilities breeding clouded leopards need to provide the female a secluded off exhibit area.[7] Modern breeding programs involve carefully regulated introductions between prospective mating pairs and take into account the requirements for enriched enclosures. Stimulating natural behaviour by providing adequate space to permit climbing minimizes stress. This, combined with a feeding program that fulfills the proper dietary requirements, has promoted more successful breeding in recent years.[citation needed]
In March 2011, two breeding females at the Nashville Zoo at Grassmere in Nashville, Tennessee gave birth to three cubs, which are being raised by zookeepers. Each cub weighed a half pound.[27] In June 2011, two cubs were born at the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma, Washington. The breeding pair was brought from the Khao Kheow Open Zoo in Thailand in an ongoing education and research exchange program.[28] Four cubs were born at the Nashville Zoo in 2012.[29]
As of December 2011, 222 clouded leopards are believed to exist in zoos.[30]
Cultural influence
The Rukai people of Taiwan consider the clouded leopard to be their spiritual ancestor who led them to their homeland.[31]
The scientific name of the genus Neofelis is a composite of the Greek word νεο- meaning "new", and the Latin word feles meaning "cat", so it literally means "new cat."[32][33]
- ^ a b Wozencraft, W. C. (2005). "Order Carnivora". In Wilson, D. E.; Reeder, D. M. Mammal Species of the World (3rd ed.). Johns Hopkins University Press. p. 545Bad page specification here. ISBN 978-0-8018-8221-0. OCLC 62265494.
- ^ a b c Sanderson, J., Khan, J.A., Grassman, L., Mallon, D.P. (2008). "Neofelis nebulosa". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Version 2012.2. International Union for Conservation of Nature.
- ^ Buckley-Beason, V.A., Johnson, W.E., Nash, W.G., Stanyon, R., Menninger, J.C., Driscoll, C.A., Howard, J., Bush, M., Page, J.E., Roelke, M.E., Stone, G., Martelli, P., Wen, C., Ling, L.; Duraisingam, R.K., Lam, V.P., O'Brien, S.J. (2006). "Molecular Evidence for Species-Level Distinctions in Clouded Leopards". Current Biology 16 (23): 2371–2376. doi:10.1016/j.cub.2006.08.066. PMID 17141620.
- ^ Kitchener, A.C., Beaumont, M.A., Richardson, D. (2006). "Geographical Variation in the Clouded Leopard, Neofelis nebulosa, Reveals Two Species". Current Biology 16 (23): 2377–2383. doi:10.1016/j.cub.2006.10.066. PMID 17141621.
- ^ a b c Pocock, R.I. (1939) The Fauna of British India, including Ceylon and Burma. Mammalia. – Volume 1. Taylor and Francis, Ltd., London. Pp 247–253
- ^ a b c d e Sunquist, M.; Sunquist, F. (2002). Wild cats of the World. Chicago: University of Chicago Press. pp. 278–284. ISBN 0-226-77999-8.
- ^ a b Clouded leopard SSP (2000). Clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa) Husbandry Guidelines. American Zoo and Aquarium Association.
- ^ a b c Grassman Jr., L. I.,Tewes, M. E., Silvy, N. J., Kreetiyutanont, K. (2005). Ecology of three sympatric felids in a mixed evergreen forest in North-central Thailand. Journal of Mammalogy 86: 29–38.
- ^ Rabinowitz, A.R., Walker, S.R. (1991). The carnivore community in a dry tropical forest mosaic in Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary, Thailand. Journal of Tropical Ecology 7: 37−47.
- ^ Choudhury, A.U. (1996). The clouded leopard. Cheetal 35 (1-2): 13–18.
- ^ Choudhury, A. (1997). The clouded leopard in Manipur and Nagaland. Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society 94(2): 389–391.
- ^ Choudhury, A. U. (2003). The cats in North East India. Cat News 39: 15–19.
- ^ Choudhury, A. U. (1992). The Clouded leopard in Assam. Oryx 27 (1): 51–53.
- ^ Sathykumar, S., Bashir, T., Bhattacharya, T., Poudyal, K. (2011). Assessing mammal distribution and abundance in intricate Eastern Himalayan habitats of Khangchendzonga, Sikkim, India. Mammalia 75: 257–268.
- ^ Dinerstein, E. and Mehta, J. N. (1989). The clouded leopard in Nepal. Oryx 23(4): 199–201.
- ^ Sunquist, M. E., Sunquist, F. (2009). Family Felidae (Cats) In: Wilson, D. E., Mittermeier, R. A. (eds.) Handbook of the Mammals of the World - Volume 1 Carnivores. Lynx Edicions in association with Conservation International and IUCN. ISBN 978-84-96553-49-1
- ^ Anonymous. (1996). The mystery of the Formosan clouded leopard. Cat News 24: 16.
- ^ Hemmer, H. (1968). Untersuchungen zur Stammesgeschichte der Pantherkatzen (Pantherinae) II: Studien zur Ethologie des Nebelparders Neofelis nebulosa (Griffith 1821) und des Irbis Uncia uncia (Schreber 1775). [Studies of the philogenetic history of the Pantherinae II: Research into the ecology of the clouded leopard and snow leopard.] Veröffentlichungen Zoologische Staatssammlung München 12:155–247.
- ^ a b Wilting, A., Fischer, F., Bakar, S.A., Linsenmair, K.E. (2006) Clouded leopards, the secretive top-carnivore of South-East Asian rainforests: their distribution, status and conservation needs in Sabah, Malaysia. BMC Ecology 2006, 6 (16): 1–13.
- ^ Austin, S. C., Tewes, M. E. (1999). Ecology of the clouded leopard in Khao Yai National Park, Thailand. Cat News 31: 17–18.
- ^ Feng, L., Lin, L., Zhang, L., Wang, L., Wang, B., Luo A., Yang, S., Smith, J. L. D., Luo S. J. and Zhang, L. (2008) Evidence of wild tigers in southwest China – a preliminary survey of the Xishuangbanna National Nature Reserve. Cat News 48: 4–6.
- ^ a b Nowell, K., Jackson, P. (1996). Clouded Leopard in: Wild Cats: status survey and conservation action plan. IUCN/SSC Cat Specialist Group, Gland, Switzerland
- ^ Achariyo, L.N., Mishra, Ch. G. (1981). "Some notes on the longevity of two species of Indian wild cats in captivity". Journal of the Bombay Natural History Society 78: 155.
- ^ a b Nowell, K. (2007) Asian big cat conservation and trade control in selected range States: evaluating implementation and effectiveness of CITES Recommendations. A TRAFFIC Report, June 2007
- ^ "Clouded Leopard — Neofelis nebulosa". Defenders of Wildlife.
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- ^ "The Nashville Zoo celebrates two sets of clouded leopard cubs". Associated Press (al.com). March 29, 2012.
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- ^ "Cats from A to Z, The Clouded Leopard". Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. Retrieved 2009-06-06. [dead link]
- ^ Perseus Digital Library. Greek Dictionary νεο Headword Search Result
- ^ Perseus Digital Library. Latin Dictionary feles Headword Search Result


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New construction reduced to rubble after fire in Lower Heidelberg Twp.
Damage estimated to be around $2 million, fire chief says
LOWER HEIDELBERG TWP., Pa. - Fire officials said it could take weeks to determine the cause of a massive fire that leveled an apartment building under construction in Berks County early Tuesday morning.
The flames erupted around 3:30 a.m. at the Legacy at the Papermill apartment complex, an over-55 community in the area of Calming Drive and Legacy Boulevard in Lower Heidelberg Township, according to emergency officials.
The 3-story building, consisting of just plywood and studs, burned to the ground, said fire officials.
"I had never seen anything like that before… it was an inferno," said Ray Bickley, whose nearby home was damaged by heat alone. "The glass pane of the window was popping because of the heat."
His home's vinyl siding also melted.
More intense damage was faced by the apartment complex beside the blaze. There, officials said three families needed to be temporarily evacuated.
"They just stayed in some ambulances to stay warm until they were able to get back into their apartment," said Chief Thomas Deiterich, Lower Heidelberg Twp. Police Dept.
Fortunately, Deiterich said no one was injured, including firefighters among the 12 departments that were called to the scene.
As of Tuesday afternoon, a cause and origin were unknown. Officials said the fire was under active investigation by a state police fire marshal.
Deiterich told 69 News that the apartment building was nearly completed structurally before the fire, but still needed drywall and insulation.
He said the building is now a total loss, with damage estimated around $2 million.
The owner of the property, Marc C. Powell, spoke with 69 News reporter, Dwayne Parker, by phone Tuesday evening.
Powell said the entire day was a whirlwind for him.
He also said he plans to re-build.
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Allentown, PA 18102
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Marc 'Lobo' Johnson
EBEN JUNCTION, MI. – Marc "Lobo" Johnson, age 58, of Eben Junction died at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 24, 2013 at Marquette General Hospital following a seventeen month illness.
He was born on December 16, 1954 in Marquette to Harold and Bertha (Kamppinen) Johnson. Marc graduated from Eben High School in 1973. He married Margie Edmondson and they had two daughters. Lobo worked at the White Pine and CCI Iron Ore mines before working construction. He did carpentry work on Isle Royale and worked for S.J.S Construction and Walther Construction. Lobo bowled in league for many years on the New Moon's team. He played fast pitch softball in the Chatham league and he enjoyed watching all sports, especially the Tigers and Packers. Marc was a huge supporter of the Superior Central Cougars and he faithfully cheered on all of their events.
He is survived by his daughters Sara (Don) Miller and Sherry Johnson all of Marquette; grandchildren Tyler, Easton, Samantha, and Aleya; his mother Bertha Nix of Chatham; brother Wayne (Pam) Johnson of Eben; sister Beth (Cary) Chartier of Chatham; nieces and nephews Wayne, Heidi, Heather, Jacob, Jarod, Jesse, Justin, and Jordan; aunt Lois Maki; and numerous cousins. Marc was preceded in death by his father Harold Johnson, brother Bruce Johnson, and step-father Warren Nix.
Visitation will be held at the Bowerman Funeral Home on Saturday evening from 5:00 until 8:00 and also at the church on Sunday from 12:00 noon until 1:00 p.m. Marc's funeral service will be held at the Chatham Apostolic Lutheran Church on Sunday, January 27, 2013 at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be at the Pine Grove Cemetery in Chatham in the spring. Lobo will be escorted by Gary and Bruce Kallio, Allen Seppanen, Jesse Chartier, Tyler Smith, and Wayne Johnson. His obituary and guestbook may be viewed and signed at www.bowermanfuneralhome.net.


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QDepo - A desktop application for retrieving and exporting data from relational database systems to spreadsheet files, formerly known as "TPDA - Query Repository Tool".
The supported output file formats are Excel (.xls), ODF and CSV. The full list of the supported database management systems includes: CUBRID, Firebird, MySQL, PostgreSQL and SQLite.
The graphical user interface is based on wxPerl and/or PerlTk GUI toolkit with the same functionality for both, with a few minor differences.


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Today, Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Ellen Tauscher delivered remarks at the Global Zero Summit in Paris, France. Under Secretary Tauscher said:
"I know Global Zero has set itself an ambitious goal of wanting to eliminate nuclear weapons during the next 20 years. The goal is admirable, and I thank you for the time and energy each and every one of you is putting into this effort.
"The nuclear arms race that characterized the Cold War cast a shadow over the lives of people everywhere -- especially those living in Europe and the United States. But today there is universal agreement that, as Secretary Clinton said last week in this great city, 'People everywhere have the right to live free from the fear of nuclear destruction.'
"And President Obama set forth an ambitious agenda in his speech in Prague last year. The president has embraced the vision of John Kennedy and Ronald Reagan of calling for a world without nuclear weapons.
"Those are not just abstract words for him. This issue animates the president, it's not one of those issues that an aide had to tell him about. He has put his political capital and muscle behind that vision."
The Under Secretary continued: "Nuclear disarmament is not the Holy Grail. It's only worth pursuing in so far as it increases our national security. I believe that the journey on the road to zero is perhaps more important -- than the goal itself. It's those concrete steps that we take that will enhance the national security of the United States and make the world a more stable place."
The Under Secretary then outlined steps which the United States is taking to reduce nuclear weapons in our national security strategy.
"On March 1, the Obama administration will release its Nuclear Posture Review, which will reduce role and number of nuclear weapons in our national security strategy. For the first time, there has been significant State Department participation in the Nuclear Posture Review. We have made sure to fully address all matters relating to our nuclear posture. We also have spent a significant amount of time consulting our allies because it is our goal to strengthen their security as well. At April's Nuclear Security Summit, the President will bring 44 nations together to advance his goal of securing all vulnerable nuclear materials around the world in four years, so that they never fall into the hands of terrorists.
"In May, we will strengthen the Nuclear Nonproliferation Regime at the Review Conference and work with allies and partners to ensure that the rights and responsibilities of every nation are enforced. We are also working to start negotiations in the Conference on Disarmament on a treaty to halt fissile material production, so that we don't add to global stockpiles of highly enriched uranium or weapons grade plutonium. And, when we're ready, we will ask the United States Senate to ratify the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty.
"Looking back, the United States and, for that matter, Russia, have not gotten enough credit for the steps we have taken to disarm. They have been substantial even though we all know we have a long way to go."
During a news conference in Paris, Under Secretary Tauscher spoke specifically about the nuclear arms agreement with Russia. She said, "As we are in the endgame right now of finishing the conforming of the Treaty, and the technical annexes and some other little negotiations that we have to do. We're looking forward to doing that this year and making sure that the START Treaty not only gets a great hearing but also gets ratified."
Read the Under Secretary's full remarks at the Global Zero Summit here.
Eric in New Mexico writes:
I'd been waiting to see some results of the pushing of that "reset button", and I suppose of necessity talk comes before action or agreements made...in the natural evolution of things...and indeed talk is cheap, compared to isolation of nations, containment, and regime replacement therapy.
However, every once in awhile I am duly impressed when by rhetoric therin lies evidence of realization occuring in the minds of world leaders that national security = common security, and vice versa as a reciprocal arrangement.
Thus spoke Sergei Ivanov, First Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation;
"Dear colleagues, I must admit that recent years have proved specifically productive for Munich Conference activity because it has coincided with the end of inter-bloc confrontation and creation of the atmosphere of confidence and partnership. This refers also to the prospects of comprehensive and complete elimination of nuclear weapons.
Accordingly, more and more disarmament initiatives, such as the Hoover Initiative and the Global Zero Initiative, are being launched. Prominent public figures and politicians around the world are joining their effort under auspices of such organisations as the Luxembourg Forum and the Evans-Kawaguchi Commission.
Symptomatic shifts are also observed in the positions of certain states possessing nuclear weapons, including the USA, where plans are being developed to deploy strategic offensive arms in non-nuclear set-up.
Russia's strategic thinking is also being stepped up. Our point of departure is the assumption that nuclear weapons, while remaining the core element of strategic deterrence, cannot be regarded as a cure-all for the whole range of real threats and challenges. We believe that in future under certain conditions nuclear weapons may and should be eliminated. Dmitry Medvedev, President of the Russian Federation, has on several occasions referred to that both in his written address to the Conference on Disarmament in March, 2009 and speaking at the 64th session of the UN General Assembly in September same year.
Security and stability in the context of nuclear disarmament require establishment of relationship between strategic offensive and strategic defensive arms. One cannot seriously talk about reduction in nuclear capabilities if a nuclear state consistently develops and deploys Systems aimed at providing its invulnerability to means of deterrence possessed by other states. lt is like a theory about a sword and a shield. Both are developing and one has to keep in mind the advantages of each of them."
Source: http://www.securityconference.de
At risk of sounding medieval I have to ask, "Is there advantage to be found in having the choice between being in the fire or the frying pan?"
But he closes with this, and it provides some room for optimism.
"Despite variety of opinions and views regarding the situation in disarmament, there is practically no doubt that nowadays risks substantially differ from those of twenty years ago. This explains the need for new approaches and vigorous efforts towards resolving emerging problems.
This is my sincere hope that today's discussion would contribute to a profound reassessment of the situation in non-proliferation and disarmament process as weil as of the role and responsibility of each state concerned in moving towards a nuclear-free world.
Now in Munich we have an opportunity to give mankind a much awaited signal that the "global zero" idea is not just an empty phrase. Let us meet the challenge."
Ok then, let's use the swords to create a global shield against asteroid impact. Got a big'un coming close, and we should test theory on Apophos and see if humanity can create a working program.
It would be patheticly ironic on the eve of goodwill among men to be wiped out of existance for lack of preparation.


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5 Places to Go Where You Can Still Savor the Luxury of Oysters
SAN DIEGO (TheStreet) -- For years, a meal that included oysters was the very definition of luxury.
The provenance of the rich. A sign of living large.
But there are those in the culinary world who would argue that oysters no longer represent such luxury now that they're so widely available. Restaurants across the country offer them for purchase individually, reaching out to those who can't afford a whole dozen. They're being sold for a $1 each during happy hours from East to West Coast. And they are being fried and sold spilling out of cardboard containers like glorified french fries.
"They used to be about luxury years ago," says executive chef Michael DeGeorgio, of Vetro by Russo's on the Bay, in Howard Beach, N.Y. "Now a lot of places are selling them by the piece and people are able to get three or four pieces. When I started in the business, it was always said that rich people eat rack of lamb, oysters, crabmeat and filet mignon. But chefs have made smaller portions of oysters now and break up recipes so people are able to enjoy them even if they don't have a ton of money."
All of which means restaurants wanting to retain the luxurious image of oysters have had to step up their game, developing more creative oysters dishes and more innovative oyster presentations.
So here's a look at some of the places where oysters retain their dignity or have taken on a new life, being served in ever more creative ways, or at the very least are being served in the luxurious surroundings they so richly deserve.
Donovan's Prime Seafood, San Diego
The oysters. The sparkling sake. The service.
It's hard to know where to begin when it comes to Donovan's Prime Seafood in San Diego.
But let's start with Jeff Fortin. The manager.
If it's possible to arrange to have Fortin as your dining companion while eating oysters at Donovan's Prime Seafood, consider yourself lucky. Extremely lucky. Fortin's knowledge of oysters, oyster growing, oyster serving, oyster seasons, the science of oysters -- and, well, anything and everything oyster -- is encyclopedic. Fortin started reading up and studying all things oysters years ago, and the knowledge has paid off.


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Last Friday evening, I attended Dark & Delicious, a Petite Sirah and food pairing tasting at Rock Wall Wine Company in Alameda, across the bay from San Francisco.
Fuzzy label, delicious wine, at the 2010 Dark & Delicious Petite Sirah tasting.
Late Friday, after returning to Cotati in Sonoma County from the wine tasting, I began to experience an alternately runny/stuffy nose. It has been warm, following rains in northern California, the hills are green, mustard and other ground cover is blooming between the vine rows, and I had to wonder if I might have developed an allergy to something.
Saturday, I found myself in the grips of the mother of all head colds, and the affliction saw me spend most of yesterday in bed. I am not 100% today, but I had to get up and write this overdue recap of Dark & Delicious.
There were 30 restaurants offering up tasty Petite Sirah bites; I did not taste from all of the restaurants but of those I tasted food from, my favorites were:
- Harvest Catering – White Corn Polenta Cake with Braised Kobe Beef Short Ribs and California Orange Gremolata.
- Andalu Restaurant – Rosemary, Thyme and Juniper Wild Boar and Bacon Meatballs
- 9 Catering – Lamb Tenderloin with Minty Labneh, Hummus, Arugula and Pomegranate.
- Fume Bistro & Bar – Petite Sirah Braised Short Ribs on Garlic Mashed Potatoes
- Angela's Bistro – Chocolate Drizzled Bacon Slices.
My favorite was Fume Bistro's Short Ribs and Garlic Mashed Potatoes, although Harvest Catering's Orange Gremolata is something I will be stealing for my own – it was deliciously brilliant and flavor intensive.
There were so many other yummy things, sliders, pate, cheese, and even a paella prepared on premise (that I sadly didn't taste).
For those unfamiliar with Petite Sirah, it is a smaller grape with a higher skin to juice ration. The skin is very dark, and where most red grapes yield clear juice, even the juice of Petite Sirah is colored when pressed from the skins. Skin contact during fermentation yields a very dark, sometimes midnight blue black, with black plum and blueberry notes, mixed with chocolate and woody spice.
Everyone was enjoying themselves at the event.
I had contacted the 45 wineries scheduled to pour Petite Sirah in advance of the event, and 43/45 furnished me with the information needed to prepare a tasting order by alcohol content percentage, from low to high. When I arrived at the event, I found the wineries were not arranged in alphabetical order. Between the random winery placement and the quickly developing crowds, my efforts and planned tasting order were quickly out the window. Thanks to all of the wineries who helped me, I apologize for not being able to taste all of the wines poured, or even a wine from each of the pouring wineries. My tastings were random and haphazard, but I did maintain rudimentary notes.
Where I tasted a few Zinfandels at the ZAP Zinfandel tasting events that I would never want again, I found that the Petite Sirah poured at Dark & Delicious were more uniformly, well, delicious. An easier grape to work with, it allows a winemaker an easier path to good wine. Toward the end of the event, the tell tale blue staining of teeth marked this event as a rousing success.
The following are wines that I tasted and would recommend. Most would have earned Gold medals from me, some Silver, and a couple Bronze, but all were noteworthy.
- 2006 Berryessa Gap Estate Grown Reserve Petite Sirah Yolo County $18
- 2007 Cleavage Creek Napa Valley Reserve Petite Sirah $45
- 2005 Concannon Reserve Estate Petite Estate
- 2006 David Fulton Winery Estate Bottled Petite Sirah St Helena Napa Valley $45
- 2006 Field Stone Winery Staten Family Estate Bottled Reserve Petite Sirah Alexander Valley $35
- 2007 Fortress Vineyards Petite Sirah Red Hills Lake County $25
- 2007 Grizzly Republic Roadrunner Farm Petite Sirah Paso Robles $42
- 2007 Guenoc Petite Sirah Lake County $20
- 2006 Heringer Estates Petite Sirah Clarksburg $26
- 2006 Langtry Estate Petite Sirah Serpentine Meadow $40
- 2006 Lava Cap Petite Sirah Granite Hill $30
- 2007 Line 39 Petite Sirah North Coast $15
- 2006 Miro Cellars Petite Sirah Dry Creek Valley $23
- 2007 Mounts Family Winery Estate Petite Sirah Dry Creek Valley $32
Mounts and Stanton; or Stanton and Mounts
- 2006 Parducci True Grit Petite Sirah, Mendocino County $30
- 2007 Robert Biale Vineyards Like Father Like Son (Syrah/Petite Sirah blend) Napa Valley $46
- 2007 Robert Biale Vineyards Petite Sirah EBA (Extended Barrel Aging) Napa Valley $75
- 2007 Robert Biale Vineyards Petite Sirah Party Line Napa Valley
- 2006 Robert Biale Petite Vineyards Sirah Royal Punishers Napa Valley $46
- 2007 Rock Wall Petite Sirah Dry Creek Valley $28
- 2008 R&B Cellars Pizzicato Petite Sirah Bingham Ranch
- 2007 Spangler Vineyards Petite Sirah, The Terraces, Southern Oregon $35
- 2007 Stanton Vineyards Petite Sirah St Helena Napa Valley $45
- 2007 Tres Sabores Petite Sirah Napa Valley $45
Julie Johnson, owner and winemaker, Tres Sabores
- 2006 Twisted Oak Petite Sirah Calaveras County $24
- 2007 Vina Robles Petite Sirah Penman Springs Paso Robles
- 2007 Windmill (Michael~David Winery) Petite Sirah Lodi $12
In addition to tasting many delicious wines and yummy food treats, the event allowed me to meet Jo Diaz, Thea Dwelle, and Eric Hwang. Jo organized this entire Petite Sirah tasting event, Thea is a bay area Twitter wine superstar, and Eric is demonstrating that Marketing can be effectively incorporated into a winery's Social Media Marketing plan.
Jo Diaz, Petite Sirah's best friend
Eric and Thea, my tweeps @bricksofwine and @winebratsf
A band played live music in one corner of the facility, while a DJ played music in the opposite corner of the huge building. There was dancing, tasting, auction prize bidding, and art raffle. Thanks to PSILoveYou.org and all of the wineries, restaurants and volunteers who helped make this a first class wine event.
Melanie, PSILoveYou superstar volunteer
I tasted some Petites that screamed Terroir, you noticed where they came from long before you appreciated the varietal. I tasted wines with almost no place identity, but had perfectly captured the varietal's typicity. Some wines that I scored highly made the list because of where they came from, others because of their "correctness".
My #1 favorite wine of the tasting wasn't even a Petite Sirah, strictly speaking, but a blend of Syrah and Petite Sirah, the 2007 Robert Biale Vineyards Like Father Like Son Napa Valley $46.
My favorite wine tasted, the not yet released Robert Biale Syrah/Petite Sirah Blend.
I was thrilled to find both the 2007 Line 39 Petite Sirah North Coast $15 and 2007 Guenoc Petite Sirah Lake County $20 (You can often find this Guenoc in markets for $12-$16) drinking well. Both are approachable, varietally correct, and affordable.