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1:45 p.m.-- George Condon has a smart take on Obama's ups and downs at the press conference. Read it here.
12:03 p.m. -- And that's a wrap on the press conference itself. We'll post some analysis as soon as we have it.
12:02 p.m. -- The New York Times asks about what Obama will do to build a "spirit of cooperation" and why he won't invite Republicans to the negotiating table today.
A: "Well, let me just speak to this generally. It's true that this is my third budget. The first two budgets were in the midst of the worst recession since the Great Depression. So we had a different set of priorities. And I said it at the time, in each of those budgets, what I said was, you know, the deficit's going up, and we are compiling some additional debt. But the reason is because it is so important for us to avoid going into a depression. Or having a longer recession than is necessary. Because the most important thing that we had to do in order to limit the amount of increased debt and bigger deficits is to grow the economy some more. So that was our priority. That was our focus.
"This third budget reflects a change in focus. The economy is now growing again. People are more hopeful. And we've created more than 1 million jobs over the last year. Employers are starting to hire again. And businesses are starting to invest again. And in that environment, now that we're out of the depths of the crisis, we have to look at these long-term problems and these medium-term problems in a much more urgent and much more serious way.
"Now, in terms of what I'm doing with the Republicans, I'm having conversations with them and Democratic leadership, I did it before this budget was released and I will do afterwards. I will not give you a play-by-play of every negotiation that takes place. I expect that, you know, all sides will have to do a little bit of posturing on television, and speak to their constituencies. You know, rally the troops and so forth. But ultimately, what we need is a reasonable, responsible, and initially probably somewhat quiet and toned-down conversation about where can we compromise and get something done. And I'm confident that will be the spirit that congressional leaders take over the coming months. Because I don't think anybody wants to see our recovery derailed. And all of us agree that we have to cut spending. And all of us agree that we have to get our deficits under control and our debt under control. And all of us agree that part of it has to be entitlements. So there's a framework there.
"That speaks, by the way, again, to the point I made with you, Chuck, about the [Simpson-Bowles] commission. I think the commission changed the conversation. I think they gave us a basic framework and within that framework, we're going to have to have some tough conversations and the devil's going to be in the details. But, look, I was glad to see, yesterday, republican leaders say, hey, how come he didn't talk about entitlements? I think that's progress, because what we had been hearing made it sound as if we just slashed deeper on education or, you know, other provisions in domestic spending that somehow that alone was going to solve the problem. So I welcomed -- I thought it was significant progress that there is an interest on all sides on those issues. In terms of the markets, I think what the markets want to see is progress. The markets understand that we're not -- we didn't get here overnight and we're not going to get out overnight. What they want to see is that we have the capacity to work together. If they see us chipping away at this problem in a serious way, even if we haven't solved 100% of it all in one fell swoop, then that will provide more confidence that Washington can work. And more than anything, that's not just what the markets want, that's what the American people. They just want some confirmation that this place can work. And I think it can."
12:00 p.m. -- Obama takes a question about the tax hikes proposed in his budget for energy and on people with higher incomes, and if he worries about the impact on jobs.
Obama: "Well, actually, if you look at that budget, there's a whole bunch of stuff in there for job creation. I think some folks noted, for example, our infrastructure proposals which would create millions of jobs around the country. Our investments in research and development and clean energy had the potential for creating job growth in, you know, industries of the future. You know, my belief that the high end tax cuts for -- or the Bush tax cuts for the high end of the population, folks like me, my belief is that that doesn't in any way impede job growth. And most economists agree.
"You know, we had this debate in December. We compromised in order to achieve an overall package that reduced taxes for all Americans. So I believe -- I continue to believe that was a smart compromise. But when it comes to, over the long-term, maintaining tax breaks for millionaires and billionaires, that will mean additional deficits of $1 trillion. If you're serious about deficit reduction, you don't do that.
"And as I said, I think most economists-- even ones that tend to lean to the right or are more conservative-- would agree that that's not, that's not the best way for us to approach deficit reduction and debt reduction. So I do think it's important, as we think about corporate tax reform, as we think about individual tax reform, to try to keep taxes as simple as possible and as low as possible. But we also have to acknowledge that, in the same way that families have to pay for what they buy, well, government has to pay for what it buys. And if we believe that it's important for us to have a strong military, that doesn't come for free. We've got to pay for it. If we think that we have to take care of our veterans when they come home and not just salute on Memorial Day, but we actually have to work with folks who have post traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury, well, that requires services that are very labor intensive and expensive. If we think it's important that our senior citizens continue to enjoy health care in their golden years, that costs money. If we think that after a flood we help out our neighbors and our fellow citizens so that they can recover, we've got to pay for it.
"So.... My hope is that what's different this time is we have an adult conversation where everybody says, 'Here's what's important, and here's how we're going to pay for it.' Now, there are going to be some significant disagreements about what people think is important. And then, that's how democracy should work. And you know, at the margins, I think that I'll end up having to compromise on some things. Hopefully others will have that same spirit," he said.
Q: As part of that adult conversation, what if they say deeper spending cuts before you consider tax hikes?
Obama: "Well, I think it just depends on what exactly you're talking about. I think there should be a full open debate with the American people: are we willing to cut millions of young people off when it comes to student loans… to help kids and families on their college education? Are we only serious about education in the abstract but when it's the concrete are we willing to put the money into it? If we're cutting infant formula to poor kids, is that who we are as a people?
"We're going to have to have those debates. Particularly if it turns out that making those cuts doesn't really make a big dent in the long term debt and deficits, then I think the American people may conclude, let's have a more balanced approach. But that's what we're going to talk about over the next couple months. I know everybody would like to see it get resolved today. It probably will not be. That's a fair prediction," he said.
11:52 a.m.-- CNN's Ed Henry takes the discussion back to Egypt, asking about the president's message to protestors, especially because he was criticized for being too cautious during the protests. "Do you want them to taste freedom, or do you want them to taste freedom only if it will also bring stability to our interests in the region?" he asks.
A: "Well, first of all, without revisiting all the events over the last three weeks, I think history will end up recording that at every juncture in the situation in Egypt that we were on the right side of history. What we didn't do was pretend that we could dictate the outcome in Egypt because we can't. So we were very mindful that it was important for this to remain an Egyptian event, that the United States did not become the issue. But that we sent out a very clear message that we believed in an orderly transition, a meaningful transition, and a transition that needed to happen not later but sooner. And we were consistent on that message throughout. So particularly if you look at my statements, I started talking about reform two weeks or two and a half weeks before Mubarak ultimately stepped down. And at each juncture, I think we calibrated it just about right. And I would suggest that, you know, part of the test is that what we ended up seeing was a peaceful transition, relatively little violence, and relatively little if any anti-American sentiment. Or anti-Israel sentiment or anti-western sentiment. And I think that testifies to the fact that in a complicated situation, we got it about right.
"My message I think to demonstrators going forward is your aspirations for greater opportunity for the ability to speak your mind, for a free press; those are absolutely aspirations we support. As was true in Egypt, you know, ultimately what happens in each of these countries will be determined by the citizens of those countries. And even as we uphold these universal values, we do want to make sure that transitions do not degenerate into chaos and violence. It's not just good for us; it's good for those countries. You know, the history of successful transitions to democracy has generally been ones in which peaceful protests led to dialogue, led to discussion, led to reform, and ultimately led to democracy. And that's true in countries like Eastern Europe. That was also true in countries like Indonesia, a majority Muslim country that went through some of these similar transitions but didn't end up doing it in such a chaotic fashion that it ended up dividing the societies fundamentally."
Henry follows up: "Has it improved the chances of something like Mideast peace, or has it made it more complicated in your mind?"
A: "I think it offers an opportunity as well as a challenge. I think the opportunity is that when you have the kinds of young people who were in Tahrir square feeling that they have hope and they have opportunity, then they're less likely to channel all their frustrations into anti-Israeli sentiment or anti-western sentiment because they see the prospect of building their own country. That's a positive. You know, the challenge is that democracy is messy. So if you're trying to negotiate with the democracy, you don't just have one person to negotiate with, you have to negotiate with a wider range of views. But I like the odds of actually getting a better outcome in the former circumstance than in the latter."
11:51 a.m.-- Part two of President Obama's answer, about American diplomat Ray Davis:
"If our diplomats are in another country, they are not subject to that country's local prosecution. We respect it with respect to diplomats when they are here. We [call on Pakistan] to recognize Davis as a diplomat, to abide by the same convention. The reason why this is an important principle is that if it starts being fair game on our ambassadors around the world, including in dangerous places, where we might have differences with those governments, and our ambassadors or our various embassy personnel are having to deliver a tough messages to countries where we disagree with them on X,Y,Z, and they start being vulnerable to prosecution locally-- that is untenable. That means they cannot do their job. That's why we respect these conventions and every country should as well.
"So we're going to be continuing to work with the Pakistani government to get this person released, and, obviously, for those of you that are not familiar with the background on this, a couple of Pakistanis were killed in a incident between Mr. Davis within Pakistan. So obviously we're concerned about the loss of life. We are not callous about that -- but there is a broader principle that we think needs to be upheld."
11:47 a.m.-- ABC's question: House Republicans want to start cutting this year's budget. Are you willing to work with them in the next few weeks so as to avoid a government shutdown? There has been talk about a down payment they would like to make for this year's budget. Also, could you talk a little bit about the attempts to get American diplomat Ray Davis freed from Pakistan? Could you walk us through that process?
Obama: My goal is to work with the Republicans both on the continuing resolution, and for those of you that are watching that do not know, the CR is a continuing resolution -- a way to keep government going when you don't budget settled…. This is carry over business from last year, funding vital government functions this year. I want to work with everybody to get that resolved…I think it is important that we do not try to make symbolic cuts this year that could endanger the recovery. So that's point number one.
What I will be looking for is some common sense that the recovery is still fragile. We passed this tax cut package precisely to make sure people have more money in their pockets, that their paychecks were larger. We provided these tax credits and incentives for businesses, but if the steps that we take then prompt thousands of layoffs in state or local government, or core vital functions are not performed properly, that could also have a dampening impact on our recovery as well. So my measure is going to be are we doing things in a sensible way, and meeting core functions, not endangering our recovery? In some cases, like defense, for example, Secretary Gates has already testified if we are operating under the current continuing resolution is putting significant strains on ability to make sure our troops have what they need to perform their missions in Afghanistan. Further slashes would impair our ability to meet our mission. We've got to be careful. Again, let's use a scalpel, let's not use a machete, and if we do that there should be no reason at all for a government shutdown. And I think people should be careful about being too loose in terms of talking about a government shutdown because this is not an abstraction – people don't get their Social Security checks, they don't get their veterans payments, basic functions shut down. And that also would have an adverse effect on our economic recovery, it would be destabilizing, at a time when I think everybody is hopeful that we can start growing this economy quicker… I'm looking forward to having a conversation, but… the key here is for people to be practical not to score political points. That's true for all of us. I think if we take that approach we can navigate the situation in the short term and deal with the problem long term."
11:43 a.m.-- The president is asked about some of the more unpopular cuts in his budget, such as cuts to community service block grants, Pell Grants, and the Low Income HomeEnergy Assistance Program. In a lighter moment, he's also asked if he's been making calls on behalf of his former chief of staff, Rahm Emanuel, who is running for mayor in Chicago.
A: "I don't need to make calls for Rahm Emanuel. He seems to be doing fine on his own. He's been very busy shoveling snow out there. I've been very impressed with that. I never saw him shoveling around here.
"Let me use Pell Grants as an example of how we're approaching these difficult budget choices in a way that is sustainable but preserves our core commitment to expanding opportunity. When I came into office, I said, I want to, once again, have America have the highest graduation rates, college graduation rates of any country in the world, that we have been slipping, and so I significantly increased the Pell Grant program by tens of billions of dollars. And so millions of young people are going to have opportunities through the Pell Grant program that they didn't before, and the size of the Pell Grant itself went up. What we also did, partly because we were in a recessionary situation, and so more people were having to go back to school as opposed to work, we also did, for example, say, you can get pell grants for summer school.
"Now, we're in a budget crunch. The takeup rate on the Pell Grant program has skyrocketed. The costs have gone up significantly. If we continue on this pace, sooner or later, what's going to happen is we are going to have to chop off eligibility. We're going to have to say, that's it, we can't do this anymore, it's too expensive. So, instead what we did was say how do we trim, take a scalpel to the Pell Grant program, make sure we keep the increase for each Pell Grant, make sure that the young people who are being served by the Pell Grant program are still being served, but, for example, on the summer school thing, let's eliminate that. That will save us some money, but the core functions of the program are sustained. That's how we're approaching all of these cuts.
"On the LIHEAP program, the home heating assistance program, we doubled the home heating assistance program when I first came into office in part because there was a huge energy spike, and so folks, if we just kept it at the same level, folks would have been in real trouble. Energy prices have now gone down but the cost of the program has stayed the same. So what we've said is let's go back to a more sustainable level. If it turns out that, once again, you see a huge energy spike, then we can revisit it, but let's not just assume because it's at a $5 billion level that each year we're going to sustain it at a $5 billion level regardless of what's happening on the energy front. Now, that doesn't mean that, you know, these aren't still tough cuts. Because they're always more people who could use some help across the country than we have resources. And so it's still a tough decision, and I understand people's frustrations with some of these decisions. Having said that, my goal is to make sure that we're looking after the vulnerable, we're looking after the disabled, we're looking after our seniors, we're making sure that our education system is serving our kids so that they can compete in the 21st century, we're investing in the future. And doing that in a way that's sustainable and that we're paying for. As opposed to having these huge imbalances where there's some things that aren't working that we're paying a lot of money for, there are some things that are underfunded. We're trying to make adjustments so that we've got a sustainable budget that works for us over the long term.
"And by the way, there are just some things that aren't working at all. We've eliminated a couple hundred programs in this budget. On the education front, we're consolidating from 33 programs to 11 programs. There is waste and inefficiency there that, you know, is long overdue. And we identify a number of these programs that just don't work. Let's take that money out of the programs that don't work and put that money in programs that do.
"Look, I definitely feel folks' pain. You know, I -- somebody's doing a book about the ten letters that I get every day. And they came by to talk to me yesterday. And they said, you know, what's the overwhelming impression that you get when you read these ten letters a day. And what I them is I'm so inspired by the strength and resilience of the American people, but sometimes I'm also just frustrated by the number of people out there who are struggling and you want to help every single one individually. And I -- you know, you almost feel like you want to be a case worker and just start picking up the phone and advocating for each of these people who are working hard, trying to do right by their families. Oftentimes through no fault of their own. They've had a tough time particularly over these last couple of years. So, yeah, it -- it's frustrating. But my job is to make sure that we're focused over the long term. Where is it that we need to go. And the most important thing I can do as president is make sure that we're living within our means, getting a budget that is sustainable, investing in the future and growing the economy. If I do that, then that's probably the most help I can give to the most number of people."
11:37 a.m.-- Julianna Goldman of Bloomberg asks the president why he thinks that he will be able to get a budget that relies on tax increases to multinational corporations and increases in the oil and gas industries through a divided Congress if he couldn't get those proposals through a Democratic Congress when he called for them in the past.
A: "Well, I continue to believe I'm right. So we're going to try again. I think what's different is everybody says now that they're really serious about the deficit. Well, if you're really serious about the deficit, not just spending, but you're serious about the deficit overall, then part of what you have to look at is unjustifiable spending through the tax code. Through tax breaks that do not make us more competitive, do not create jobs here in the United States of America. And they -- two examples you cite, most economists would look at and say these aren't contributing to our long-term economic growth. And if they're not, why are we letting some folks pay lower taxes than other folks who are creating jobs here in the United States? And are investing. Why are we not investing in the energy sources of the future, just the ones in the past? Particularly the energy sources of the past are highly profitable right now and don't need a tax break.
"So I think what may is changed is if we are going to get serious about deficit reduction and debt reduction, then we've got to look at all the sources of deficit and debt. We can't be, you know, just trying to pick and choose and getting 100% of our weight. The same is true, by the way, for Democrats. I mean, there's some provisions in this budget that are hard for me to take. You've got cities around the country and states around the country that are having a tremendously difficult time trying to balance their own budgets because of falling revenue. They've got greater demands because of folks who have lost their jobs. The housing market is still in a tough way in a lot of these places. And yet, part of what this budget says is we're going to reduce community development block grants by 10%. That's not something I'd like to do, but -- and if it had come up a year or two years ago, I would have said no. Under these new circumstances I'm saying yes to that. So my expectation is that everybody is going to have to make those same sorts of compromises.
"Now with respect to corporate tax reform, the whole concept of corporate tax reform is to simplify, eliminate loopholes, treat everybody fairly. That is entirely consistent with saying, for example, that we shouldn't provide special treatment to the oil industry when they've been making huge profits and can afford to further invest in their companies without special tax breaks that are different from what somebody else gets.
"Well what is absolutely true is that it's going to be difficult to achieve serious corporate tax reform if the formula is lower our tax rates and let us keep all our special loopholes. If that's the formula, then we're not going to get it done. I wouldn't sign such a bill, and I don't think the American people would sign such a bill. If you're a small business person out on Main Street and you're paying your taxes and you find out that you've got some big company with billions of dollars in far-flung businesses all across the world and they're paying a fraction of what you're paying in taxes, you know, you'd be pretty irritated. And rightfully so. And so the whole idea of corporate reform is -- corporate tax reform is, yes, let's lower everybody's rate so American businesses are competitive with businesses all around the world. But in order to pay for it, to make sure that it doesn't add to our deficit, let's also make sure that these special interest loopholes that allow lobbyists who have been working hard to get into the tax code, let's get rid of those, as well."
11:36 a.m.-- NBC's question: Everything you have talked about, tax reform, and … entitlement reform, you had a majority consensus to do all of this. It has now been shelved. I guess my question is, what was the point of the fiscal commission, if you have this moment where you had Tom Coburn.. Dick Durbin... sign on to this deal… Why not grab it?
Obama's answer: "The notion that it's been shelved I think is incorrect. It still provides a framework for a conversation. Part of the challenge is here is that in this town let's face it, you guys are pretty impatient. If something doesn't happen today, the assumption is that it isn't going to happen. I've had this conversation for the last two years about every issue… whether it was on health care, Don't Ask, Don't Tell. On Egypt -- we have had this monumental change your last three weeks. Why did it take three weeks?
"I think there's a tendency for us to assume that if it didn't happen today it's not going to happen. Well, the fiscal commission put out a framework. I agree with much of the framework, I disagree with some of the framework. It is true that it got 11 votes. That was a positive sign. When it is also true is that the chairman of the House Republican budgeteers did not sign off. He's got … concerns. I will need to have a conversation with him, and with those Democrats that did not vote for it. There are some issues in there, that as a matter of principle I do not agree with, where I think they did not go far enough or they went too far. So, this is going to be a process in which each side in both chambers of Congress go back and forth and start trying to whittle their differences down until we arrive said something that has an actual chance at passage. And that is my goal. My goal is to actually solve the problem. It is not to get a good headline on the first day. My goal is that a year from now, or two years from now, people look back and say we started making progress on this issue.
"This was the same criticism people had right after the midterm election. If you had polled the press room and the conventional wisdom in Washington after the midterm, the assumption was that there was no way we were going to end up getting a tax deal… it was impossible. And we got it done. This was not a matter of you go first or I go first, this is a matter of everybody having a serious conversation about where we want to go and… getting in that boat at the same time so it doesn't tip over. And I think that can happen."
11:26 a.m.-- The president takes a question from Chip Reid of CBS, who asks, "You said that this budget is not going to add to the credit card as of about the middle of the decade, and as Robert Gibbs might say, I'm not a budget expert and I'm not an economist, but if you could just explain to me how you can say that when if you look on page 171, which I'm sure you've read, it is the central page in this, the 1 trillion down to $768 billion, and they go down again all the way to $607 billion in 2015. Then they start to creep up again. And by 2021, it's at at $774 billion. The total over those ten years, 2 trillion on top of the $14 trillion we already have. How can you say that we're living within our means?"
A: "Well, here -- let me be clear on what I'm saying because I'm not suggesting that we don't have to do more. We still have all this accumulated debt as a consequence of the recession and as a consequence of a series of decisions that were made over the last decade. We've piled up, we've racked up a whole bunch of debt. And there's a lot of interest on that debt. So in the same way that if you've got a credit card and you've got a big balance, you may not be adding to principle. You've still got all that interest that you've got to pay. We've got a big problem in terms of accumulated interest that we're paying, and that's why we're going to have to whittle down further the debt…that's already been accumulated. So that's problem number one.
"Problem number two, we talked about, which is rising health care costs. And programs like Medicaid and Medicare are going to start zooming up again as a consequence of the population getting older and health care costs going up more rapidly than incomes and wages and revenues are going up. So you've got those two big problems. What we've done is try to take this in stages. What we say in our budget is let's get control of our discretionary budget to make sure that whatever it is that we're spending on an annual basis we're also taking in a similar amount. Right, that's step number one. Step number two is going to be, how do we make sure that we're taking on these long-term drivers and how do we start whittling down the debt? That's going to require entitlement reform, and it's going to require tax reform. And in order to accomplish those two things, we're going to have to have a spirit of cooperation between Democrats and Republicans. And I think that's possible. I think that's what the American people are looking for. But what I think is important to do is not discount the tough choices that are required just to stabilize the situation. It doesn't solve it, but it stabilizes it, and if we can get that done, that starts introducing this concept of us being able to in a serious way cooperate to meet this fiscal challenge, and that will lay the predicate for us being able to solve some of these big problems over the course of the next couple of years, as well.
"So again, I just want to repeat, the first step in this budget is to make sure that we're stabilizing the current situation. Second step is going to be, make sure we're taking on long-term drivers. We've got to get control of the short term deficit, as well, and, you know, people are going to be looking for a signal to that. The choices we've made are pretty tough choices which is why I think you've been seeing grumblings from the other party and my own party about decisions we've made."
11:24 a.m.-- Obama was asked about his concerns about instability in the Middle East, especially in Saudi Arabia, and if he foresees any effect on oil prices. He was also asked to comment on Iran.
Obama said: "On Iran, we were clear then, and we are clear then and we are clear now, that the people should be able to express their grievances and seek a more responsive government. What has been different is the Iranian government's response, which is to shoot people, beat people, and arrest people.
"My hope and expectation is that we are going to continue to see the people of Iran have the courage to express their yearning for greater freedoms and a more representative government. Understanding that America cannot ultimately dictate what happens inside of Iran, any more than it could inside of Egypt. Ultimately these are sovereign countries and they're going to have to make their own decisions.
"We are going to have to lend moral support to those who are seeking a better life for themselves. Obviously, we are concerned about stability throughout the region. Each country is different. The message that we have sent, even before the demonstrations in Egypt has been to friend and foe alike that the world is changing, that you have a young, vibrant generation within the Middle East that is looking for greater opportunity, and that if you are governing these countries, you need to get out ahead of change. You cannot be behind the curve. So, I think that the thing that will actually achieve stability in that region is if young people, if ordinary folks, end up feeling that there are pathways for them to feed their families, get a decent job, a better education, and aspire to a better life.
"The more steps that these governments are taking to provide these avenues for mobility and opportunity, the more stable these countries are. You can't maintain power through coercion. At some level in any society there has to be consent. And that's particularly true in this new era where people can communicate not just through some centralized government or state run TV but they can get on a smart phone or a twitter account and mobilize hundreds of thousands of people. My believe is that as a consequence of … Tunisia and Egypt.. governments in that region are starting to understand this. And my hope is that they can operate in a way that is responsive to this hunger for change but also do this in a way that doesn't lead to violence," he said.
11:18 a.m.-- The second portion of Obama's answer, about how he will deal with promoting freedom in the region in places where instability could endanger U.S. interests:
"Now with respect to the situation in the Middle East, obviously there's still a lot of work to be done in Egypt itself. What we've seen so far is positive. The military council that will is in charge has reaffirmed its treaties with countries like Israel and international treaties. It has met with the opposition, and the opposition has felt that it is serious about moving toward fair and free elections. Egypt's going to require help in building democratic institutions and also in strengthening the economy that's taken a hit as a consequence of what happened. But so far at least, we're seeing the right signals coming out of Egypt. There are ramifications throughout the region, and I think my administration's approach is the approach that jives with how most Americans think about the region, which is that each country is different. Each country has its own traditions. America can't dictate how they run their societies.
"But there are certain universal principles that we adhere to. One of them is that we don't believe in violence and coercion as a way of maintaining control. So we think it's very important that in all the protests that we're seeing throughout the region that governments respond to peaceful protesters peacefully. The second principle that we believe in strongly is in the right to express your opinions and the freedom of speech and freedom of assembly that allows people to share their grievances with the government and to express them in ways that hopefully will over time meet their needs. And so, you know, we have sent a strong message to our allies in the region saying let's look at Egypt's example, as opposed to Iran's example. You know, I find it ironic that you've got the Iranian regime pretending to celebrate what happened in Egypt hen in fact they have acted in direct contrast to what happened in Egypt by gunning down and beating people who were trying to express themselves peacefully in Iran. And I also think that an important lesson, and I mentioned this last week, that can draw from this is real change in these societies is not going to happen because of terrorism. It's not going to happen because you go around killing innocents. It's going to happen because people come together and apply moral force to a situation. That's what garners international support. That's what garners internal support. That's how you bring about lasting change."
11:11 a.m.-- Obama takes the first question from the Associated Press:
Q: "You have been talking about the need for tough choices in your budget, but your plan does not address the long-term depression costs of Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security. Where is your leadership on that issue, when will we see your plan?"
A: "What my budget does is put forward some tough choices, significant spending cuts, so that by the middle of this decade, our annual spending will manage our annual revenues. We will not add more to the national debt. To use an analogy that families are familiar with, we will not run up the credit card anymore. That is important, and that is hard to do, but it is necessary, and I think the American people understand that. At the same time, we will make key investments in places like education and science and technology, research and development, that the American people understand is required to win the future. We have taken a scalpel to the discretionary budget, rather than a machete," Obama said.
"I said in the State of the Union, and I will repeat, that side of the ledger only accounts for about 12 percent of our budget. So, we have a lot of other stuff to do, including dealing with entitlements. If you talk about Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. The truth is Social Security's is not a huge contributor that the other two entitlements are. I am confident we can get Social Security done in the same way Ronald Reagan and Tip O'Neill were able to get it done by parties coming together. I think we can avoid slashing benefits, and we can make it safer and stronger for this generation, and the next generation. Medicare and Medicaid are huge problems because health-care costs are rising, even as the population is getting older what I have said is I am prepared to work with Democrats and Republicans to start dealing with that in a serious way.
"We have made a down payment on that with health care reform last year. That is part of what health-care reform was about. Projected budgets will be about 250 billion dollars lower, and $1 trillion less than they would be for the coming decade. We will still need to do more. If you look at the history of how these deals get done, typically, it is not because there is an Obama plan out there, it is because Democrats and Republicans are both committed to tackling this issue yet a serious way. What we have done is the specific on how to stabilize the budget, be sure we are not adding additional debt by 2015, and then, let us together, Democrats and Republicans, tackle long-term problems in a way that I think will inshore our fiscal health, and insure that we are making investments in the future.
"We will be in discussions over the next several months. This will be a negotiation process. The key thing that I think the American people want to see is that all sides are serious about it, and all sides are willing to give a little bit,... We did that in December on the tax-cut issue. Both sides had to give...
"The thing I want to emphasize is that no one is more mindful than me that entitlements are going to be a key part of this issue, as is tax reform. I want to simplify rates, and at the same time make sure that we have the same amount of money coming in as go in and out. Those are big, tough negotiations, and I expect there will be a lot of ups and downs in the months to come before we get that solution. Just as people were skeptical about being able to deal with the tax cuts, and we end up getting it done, I am confident we can get this done," he said.
11:05 a.m.-- Obama's opening remarks on the budget:
"Good morning, everyone. Please have a seat. I figured that I'd give Jay one more taste of freedom before we lock him in a room with all of you. So I'm here to do a little downfield blocking for him.
"Before I take a few questions, let me say a few words about the budget that we put out yesterday. Just like every family in America, the federal government has to do two things at once. It has to live within its means while still investing in the future. If you're a family trying to cut back, you might skip going out to dinner. You might put off a vacation, but you wouldn't want to sacrifice saving for your kids' college education or making key repairs in your house. So you cut back on what you can afford to focus on what you can't do without. That's what we've done with this year's budget.
"When I took office, I pledged to cut the deficit in half by the end of my first term. Our budget meets that pledge. And puts us on a path to pay for what we spend by the middle of the decade. As a start, it freezes domestic discretionary spending over the next five years which would cut the deficit by more than $400 billion over the next decade and bring annual domestic spending to its lowest share of the economy since Dwight Eisenhower.
"Now some of the savings will come through less waste and more efficiency. To take just one example, we'll give -- we'll save billions of dollars by getting rid of 14,000 office buildings, lots, and government-owned properties that we no longer need. And to make sure special interests are not larding up legislation with special projects, I've pledged to veto any bills that contain earmarks. Still, even as we cut waste and inefficiency, this budget freeze will also require us to make some tough choices. It will mean freezing the salaries of hard-working federal employees for the next two years. It will mean cutting things I care about deeply like community action programs for low-income communities. And we have some conservation programs that are going to be scaled back. These are all programs that I wouldn't be cut figure we were in a better fiscal situation, but we are not.


text:
A Yadkin County native will take on the role of Massachusetts senator previously filled by John Kerry who has resigned to move on to the Secretary of State position.
Maurice "Mo" Cowan a graduate of Forbush High School will take over the Massachusetts senate seat and will start what he calls the beginning and the end of the shortest political career ever.
"I have no long-term political goals," Cowan said in a phone interview. "This will be perhaps the shortest political career on record. I have no plans to run for an elected office now or in the future. I am just grateful that Governor Patrick appointed me for this service.
"For me this isn't about career or any personal ambition or opportunity," Cowan continued. "It's about a chance to give back to a state that has given so much to me since I arrived here 22 years ago."
While Cowan has been the source of headlines the past week for his unexpected appointment by Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick he remembers his roots and where his foundation began.
"There's an old saying, 'no matter where you are in the world never forget where you came from' and North Carolina and Yadkinville is and always will be home for me," Cowan said. "I grew up there and I learned up my values around family, faith, what's right and wrong and how to treat people and I learned those from my mother, my relatives and all the outstanding educators I had in the Yadkin County School system."
Cowan has always credited Yadkin County educators for a large part of his educational and professional success.
"I am very grateful for the education I received from my wonderful teachers first at Courtney Elementary, East Bend, and then Forbush," Cowan said in a previous interview. "If it weren't for the teachers I had in Yadkin County I wouldn't be where I am today.
"What the teachers of Yadkin County taught me opened doors and my mind to what education could provide you," Cowan continued. "It was what they demanded and expected of us to learn."
Cowan went from Yadkin County to be the first Forbush graduate to go on to Duke University and then on to law school at Northeastern University School of Law in Boston.
Cowan began his law career in Boston after law school and joined forces with Mintz, Levin, Cohn, Ferris, Glovsky, and Popeo where he began working for Gov. Patrick as general counsel.
In 2011, Cowan was appointed to chief of staff by Gov. Patrick and has been serving Gov. Patrick ever since. He announced his plans to return to the private sector in November 2012. His appointment to the interim senator position will run from Feb. 1 through June 25 when a new senator will be elected by the state to carry out the remainder of Kerry's term.
"I plan to return to the private sector and continue my life in that regard," Cowan said. "I will continue to have a close personal and professional relationship with Governor Patrick. As always, should he have a need for advice, counsel, support or assistance of any kind I expect I will answer that call."
Cowan said that he is aware that he will be facing serious issues as he heads to Washington, D.C. to serve the citizens of Massachusetts. He said that some outstanding issues that he expects to face are the fiscal cliff, immigration and health care.
"I'm going to go down there and work with Senator Warren and the rest of our congressional delegation to focus on those issues and do right by the people of Massachusetts," Cowan said.
"I'm not going down there with any personal agenda," Cowan continued. "My agenda is that of the people of Massachusetts and I think the best thing I can do is just continue the work that Secretary Kerry and his team have been working on for this many years."
Cowan said that while he loves the life he has made for himself and his family in Massachusetts he still misses home, particularly because his mother and immediate relatives still reside in Yadkin County.
"I just miss family friends and I try to get to see as many as I can when I return home," Cowan said. "There's nothing like a good Sunday dinner at my mom's house, my grandmother's house or a relative's house where you know you're going to get some delicious, often home grown, food that reminds me of days growing up in North Carolina."
Cowan said that he doesn't make it back to his hometown as often as he would like but he hasn't ruled out the possibility of one day returning for good.
"I don't know about my plans well down the road," Cowan said. "I think I'm going to be in Massachusetts where I have built a life, a career and a family for the last 20 plus years. Massachusetts has been good to me and I enjoy the region, I enjoy the people but as I said North Carolina is and always will be home.
"It's where I started and I always enjoy returning for short or long trips and who knows maybe sometime in the future I may come home for what I think is a short trip and end up staying," Cowan continued.
Reach Lindsay Craven at 679-2341 or email@example.com.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Census: More people leaving state than moving inThe Associated Press | February 13,2013MONTPELIER — U.S. Census figures show that for the first time in almost three-quarters of a century Vermont lost population last year, a drop caused by more people leaving the state than moving in.
Even though last year's population decline was small, just under 600, it's part of a broader trend that has seen the state's population growth rate hover just above zero for several years.
University of Vermont Economic Art Woolf says it was the first time since 1944 the state lost population.
Commerce Secretary Lawrence Miller says the trend of losing population or low growth is a challenge to economic development.
The Census Bureau figures showed that Vermont and Rhode Island were the only two states in the country to lose population last year.MORE IN This Just InMONTPELIER The 22 water systems in Vermont that draw from Lake Champlain are participating in a... Full StoryJOHANNESBURG When Cecil the lions carcass was finally found after he was lured out of a... Full StoryWASHINGTON It took Ted Cruz three months to raise $10 million for his campaign for president, a... Full Story
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- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day 1739, 'Richard Palmer' identified in prison at York Castle as the notorious outlaw DICK TURPIN; IN 1836, Battle of the Alamo begins near San Antonio de Bexar, Texas; 1896, the Tootsie Roll invented by LEO HIRSCHFELD.
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1472, Orkney, Shetland islands put up as collateral by Norway to Scotland in lieu of dowry for MARGARET OF DENMARK on her marriage with JAMES III, king of Scotland; 1962, JOHN GLENN first American to orbit Earth.
- TOMORROW'S HEADLINES TODAY: City mayoral candidates debate campaign issues; Hartford, Conn., woman still missing; Neal Goswami reports attempts to legislate suicide; local woman loses 100 pounds through TOPS program.
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1878, JOHN TUNSTALL murdered near Lincoln, New Mexico, by the outlaw JESSE EVANS; in 1930, ELM FARM OLLIE first cow to fly in aircraft, first to be milked airborne; 1955, nuke test WASP; '79, snow in Sahara.
- TOMORROW'S HEADLINES TODAY: Rutland Herald News Editor Alan J. Keays and staff writer Gordon Dritschilo discuss stories planned for the February 18, 2015, edition of the newspaper: Winter budgets maxed, legal marijuana, Springfield bank job, USPS slowdown
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1249 AD, ANDRE of LONGJUMEAU is dispatched by LOUIS IX of France to meet the KHAGAN, ruler of the Mongol Empire; in 1804, during 1st Barbary War, STEPHEN DECATUR scuttles the pirate-held USS Philadelphia in Tripoli.


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JCHS graduation coach Bonnie Peters explained the program Friday. She said she took students' Algebra I test scores and worked out a tutoring schedule for those not making the grade.
Peters said the tutoring was the idea of Principal Chuck Gibson in preparing for the graduation test in 2008.
"Obviously it worked because we had a 97 percent pass rate in math," she said.
Jones County's graduation rate also increased from 68 percent in 2007 to 75 percent in 2008.
Peters said the focus on the tutoring is math and language arts. She said math is the target for January and language arts in February, leading up to the graduation test in March.
Last year students with scores below 70 received the tutoring, but this year the tutoring has been expanded to anyone scoring 79 or below.
"The tutoring in large part is refreshing things that they learned in previous years," Peters said.
Gibson said he would like to encourage the parents of these students to support the tutoring efforts.
"Economic times are tough, and that means it's going to be more competitive when they enter the job market," he said.
The principal said teachers have gone above and beyond their jobs in participating in the tutoring. Twenty-minute sessions are taking place at 8:15 a.m. and 8:35 a.m. as well as during lunch. The students have 40 minutes for lunch especially designed to allow time for tutoring.
Gibson said the tutoring program is being led by Peters.
"We need to pick up steam. A lot can be done in eight weeks," he pointed out. "Look at the renovations in this building. They were all done in eight weeks."
He said special-needs students are also included in the tutoring classes. The scores of special-needs students improved 25 percent last year.
"We do understand that tutoring is a supplement. The main event is focusing during class, but the pretests allow teachers to know weaknesses and strengths," Gibson said.
The math department has taken on the challenge of raising the test scores, according to Peters.
"The commitment of the faculty is amazing," she added.
Gibson said, in addition to tutoring by teachers, a peer tutoring program is being put into place and will be funded from a small communities grant.
"If one student is touched by this and passes, it's been worth it. Everything here is about student achievement," he stated.
Peters said one of the most amazing things that has happened since the tutoring program began was that four students not flagged for it came to her and asked for help.
She said the math teachers are joined by foreign language, chorus, language arts, special education teachers, and she has had retired teachers volunteer. Math teachers Kandance Kemp, Angela Jones, and Rachel Horkan are three of the tutors and joined Peters Friday to discuss the program.
Kemp, who is the math department chairman, said students are not typically excited about math, but they are realizing they need it to graduate.
"We have met five times and not one of them has come with a bad attitude, and I've heard no complaints," she said.
Horkan said she agrees the students realize they have to conquer math and they are appreciative. Jones said, as a teacher, she wants students to learn.
"It thrills us to see they want help," Jones said.
Horkan said she is excited to watch students' faces when they understand, and Jones said she can see confidence building as they learn more.
"It's nice to have students in small groups so we can build personal relationships," Horkan said.
Peters said she received complaints from some parents when the tutoring started last year. This year she received one call.
"I think they saw the previous class and saw that it worked," Horkan suggested.
Jones said she believes students are less intimidated in the smaller classes and ask more questions, and Horkan agreed that they are taking more responsibility and ask for help with their weaknesses.
"If we make AYP, that's fine; but if students are successful, that's what all this is for," Peters said.


text:
missing corporate souls, the fanner of the flame at
the grave of the honest politician, [and] the last man
you'd want to meet at the gates of heaven." Mr.
Josephson is one of several speakers in "Ethics in the
1990s," a series sponsored by the Salvatori Center and
organized by CMC's own Leslie Bailey and the Philosophy Colloquium.
A graduate of UCLA and the UCLA law school, Mr.
Josephson was a law professor for almost 20 years at the
University of Michigan, Wayne State University, and
Loyola, Los Angeles. In 1987 he left academia to devote
himself to the work of the Joseph & Edna Josephson
Institute for the Advancement of Ethics, a public
benefit, nonprofit corporation he founded in honor of
his parents.
As president of the institute, Josephson actively
improves the ethical quality of society by teaching and
advocating principled reasoning and ethical decision
making. Through its programs and publications, the
institute offers today's leaders in business, government,
journalism, and education practical insights into ethical
issues. Josephson's philosophy focuses more on behavior than on research and theory, and emphasizes the
need to reach particularly those individuals in positions
of power, helping them to recognize and realize their
own potential to make a positive difference in the
Mr. Josephson's speech, titled "The Ethics of
American Youth," begins at 7:00, following a 5:30
reception and 6:00 dinner. Please return the enclosed
coupon to reserve your seat for dinner.


text:
The archaeology of colonialism : intimate encounters and sexual effects / [edited by] Barbara Voss, Eleanor Conlin Casella.
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text:
Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Mr. and Mrs. William Richardson Hearn Jr. of Summerville, South Carolina are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter Brooks Elizabeth Hearn to Ben Andrew Crom of Charleston, South Carolina.
Mr. Crom is the son of LTC (R) and Mrs. Gordon Wendell Crom of Colorado Springs, Colorado.
The bride-elect is the granddaughter of Mrs. Frances Mathis Cox of Columbia, South Carolina and the late Mr. David Brooks Cox; and Mr. and Mrs. William Richardson Hearn of Summerville.
The groom-elect is the grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Wendell Eugene Anderson of Phoenix, Arizona; and Mr. and Mrs. Carol Lennie Crom, Garland, Texas.
The wedding will be held at Harborside East in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina on August 2, 2013.
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text:
The stage as toolWritten by Sarah Cohen | | email@example.com
Not all venues are created equal. Toledo offers a variety from the good, the bad and the ugly. Local musical settings range from art galleries to coffee shops, beer galleries to amphitheaters. However, if you are in a local band, you can cross off playing the latter, unless you win The Blade's Battle of the Bands (who are those people?), leaving the rest of us with the smaller, local places.
For original bands, I recommend seeking out a room with a stage and a sound system. A show is much enhanced by these technological advancements, yet these simple improvements seem to elude many of the venues on the local circuit.
The Village Idiot and The Ottawa Tavern are bars that have recently updated their spaces. Unlike many bar venues, they have taken steps toward being legit clubs, providing a sound system, stage and lighting. These bars benefit from having good locations and large crowds (that seem to live there). Performing bands are sure to get recognition and applause for playing new and original material. The main challenges to the audience and musicians — both spaces get loud and crowded after midnight and because of this bands are expected to play, umm, loud.
A stage is more than a symbol — it's a working tool that helps a performer more efficiently rock. Without one, people are less likely to treat the evening like a show, and more likely to write off a band as "background music" (my least favorite term ever to be deemed a genre.)
Manhattan's, which offers live music seven days a week, does not have a stage or any sound system. For a venue that has such good taste in music, and treats its performers quite well in terms of pay and respect, it is really time to take the next step by installing some hanging speakers and a small raised stage. My real vision for Manhattan's would be to move select shows to the party room. It would be the perfect space to have a show based on listening and respect. Believe me, there are so many people who would love to come out for music but stay in because of the lack of etiquette in the bar scene. I get chills at the thought of playing to a captive room full of attentive patrons.
Ahh, the elusive captive audience; a dream to most, a reality to few. Once, in a far away land called Lansing, I went to a show where
100 people sat in rows of folding chairs facing a small stage surrounded by artwork. They paid a small cover and sat to listen to the stories set to music. It was all very Zen; the crowd only wanted to be part of the experience. There were bars to the left and the right and anyone was free to leave at anytime. It was like being at a play. Robinwood Concert House is a newer venue that takes listening very seriously. It should be commended and visited by many. Specializing in avante garde and touring groups, it remains one of the most unique performance spaces in the are. Bozarts Fine Art and Music Gallery also features a welcoming creative space where acts local or otherwise perform in front of local hanging artwork. No pressure to be a cover band here, either. The sacrifice is neither spot can offer the cold hard cash a bar can. It's Catch 22 of 222 for musicians in Toledo. Quality/Quantity = Sacrifice.
What happened to paying a cover? Toledo has taken the recession hard and now makes a funny face at the mention of paying a cover for music. Because of this, it has become harder for local bands to get people to come to venues like Mickey Finn's or Frankie's. Both provide excellent sound systems and great stages — not to mention real sound men, a breed of men that has migrated north. Maybe for those who come to shows for the social aspect it doesn't matter, but those there specifically for the music struggle to hear and participate.
So what can we do to better the music scene? Venues, help your bands and provide a stage or sound system that works with your room. It will help with quality and constancy. Bands, keep playing new music so people stop treating us like a call and request radio show. Most importantly, if we as a people had a bit more self-control when out in public and paid a bit more respect to the performers, we could see a change in quality almost immediately. A few days ago, I heard a guitarist named Tim Oehlers shout, "Please be quiet so we can hear the music!" while struggling to hear The Staving Chain and its acoustic instrumentation. I shook his hand. Well played, sir.
P.S. It was just reported that "Wooly Bully" was heard being played at the Toledo Art Museum … now that's high art!
Sarah Cohen is a Toledo native and an original musician of The Antivillains who manages Happy Badger Cafe in Bowling Green. Email her at firstname.lastname@example.com.
Tags: Bozarts, Manhattan's, Sarah Cohen, Sound Judgment, The Ottawa Tavern, The Staving Chain, The Village Idiot, Tim Oehlers, Toledo Mudeum of Art


text: Spoiled Rich is a darkened, medium purple with red undertones and a dusting of muted copper shimmer (which doesn't translate at all to the lid). It has a frost finish, but it looks very, very matte on the lid. The pigmentation was decent, but there was some sheerness. It did need to be packed onto the lid. Bobbi Brown Ultra Violet is pinker. MAC Power Boosted is pinker and more shimmery. Urban Decay Purple Haze is similar but a true matte.


text:
At an event patronised by His Excellency Eng. Sultan Bin Saeed Al Mansoori, UAE Minister of Economy, the UAE Accountants and Auditors Association (AAA) and ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), the global body for professional accountants, signed a strategic partnership to develop the UAE chartered accountant certificate that supports the government's drive to promote the qualification of UAE nationals.
The strategic partnership, signed by Saif bin Abed Al Muhairi, Chairman of AAA and by ACCA President Martin Turner and witnessed by MohammedAhmed bin Abdul Aziz Al Shehhi, Undersecretary, UAEMinistry of Economy builds on a Memorandum of Understanding agreed in November 2013.
As part of this partnership, the ACCA Qualification will form the basis of the new national chartered accountant qualification, entitling those participating to an internationally-recognised qualification and eligibility for both AAA and ACCA memberships. The qualification will consist of exams, practical experience and ethics modules.
As part of the partnership, the AAA and ACCA will also run joint events and conferences to examine key issues for the accountancy and finance professions in the UAE, the wider region and internationally.
Mr. Saif bin Abed Al Muhairi, Chairman of AAA commented: 'We are confident that this partnership is a milestone for the accounting and finance profession in UAE. The global knowledge of ACCA, the local expertise and reach out of AAA and the country vision to excel in financial services are existing pillars of success.'
ACCA President Martin Turner said: 'ACCA is delighted to have signed this strategic partnership with AAA. We look forward to working closely with a professional body which we hold in the highest regard, to further enhance the accountancy profession in the UAE. There is a significant need for finance professionals in the UAE as the economy continues to grow and diversify and we are excited about supporting the development of the profession in the region.
'ACCA is proud that, through this agreement, it has an opportunity to support the UAE's vision to be the region's leading financial centre and to support the UAE government's focus to promote the qualification of UAE nationals, as part of the excellent Emiratisation initiative.'
Ahmad Darwish, Chairman of the Members' Advisory Committee for ACCA UAE and Head of Chartered Accountants Committee of AAA said: 'The excellent qualification that this partnership will develop will create new opportunities for future generations of Emiratis, enabling the UAE to further establish itself as a leading financial services hub with highly qualified, globally aware finance professionals.'
Bassel Nadim CEO of AAA said: 'We are well positioned to jointly drive this collaboration with ACCA and bring significant value to the finance sector in UAE.'
- Ends -
For Further information, please contact:
Bassel Nadim, CEO of AAA
Nicola Hooper, Bell Pottinger
M Direct: +971 558862254
Helen Thompson, ACCA
Direct: +44 (0)20 7059 5759
Mobile: +44 (0)7725 498 654
Twitter @ACCANews
About AAA
The Accountants and Auditors Association (AAA) was established in Dubai in 1997 as a federal national association with a mandate to develop accounting, auditing and ethical standards, enhance capacity building and raise the profile of the profession. The organization is backed by the Ministry of the Economy, has 1300 members and is run by a committee of Emiratis. It has a mandate to achieve 100 qualified UAE Nationals.
About ACCA
ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) is the global body for professional accountants. We aim to offer business-relevant, first-choice qualifications to people of application, ability and ambition around the world who seek a rewarding career in accountancy, finance and management.
We support our 162,000 members and 428,000 students in 173 countries, helping them to develop successful careers in accounting and business, with the skills required by employers. We work through a network of over 89 offices and centres and more than 8,500 Approved Employers worldwide, who provide high standards of employee learning and development. Through our public interest remit, we promote appropriate regulation of accounting and conduct relevant research to ensure accountancy continues to grow in reputation and influence.
Founded in 1904, ACCA has consistently held unique core values: opportunity, diversity, innovation, integrity and accountability. We believe that accountants bring value to economies in all stages of development and seek to develop capacity in the profession and encourage the adoption of global standards. Our values are aligned to the needs of employers in all sectors and we ensure that through our qualifications, we prepare accountants for business. We seek to open up the profession to people of all backgrounds and remove artificial barriers, innovating our qualifications and delivery to meet the diverse needs of trainee professionals and their employers.


text:
Teen killed in Vermont crashApril 29,2013ENOSBURG — A standout high school basketball player in Vermont has died following a two-vehicle collision.
Police said 17-year-old Brandon Gleason of Enosburg was a front passenger in a Jeep when it collided with a pickup Friday night on Route 105 in Enosburg.
The Franklin County Sheriff's Office said Gleason later died at a St. Albans hospital. Gleason was a senior at Enosburg Falls High School and was the state's Mountain Division player of the year this past season.
Capt. Jay Sweeny of the sheriff's office told WPTZ-TV that the driver of the pickup, 53-year old Patrick Prue of Franklin, was charged with driving under the influence, but that it hasn't been determined who was at fault in the crash.
Three other teenagers in the Jeep were treated for injuries.MORE IN This Just InBy Kathleen Phalen Tomaselli Full StoryBennington College and Middlebury College both top a list for most entrepreneurial colleges in... Full StoryWas the response to an alleged assault at College of St. Full Story
- Most Popular
- Most Emailed
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day 1739, 'Richard Palmer' identified in prison at York Castle as the notorious outlaw DICK TURPIN; IN 1836, Battle of the Alamo begins near San Antonio de Bexar, Texas; 1896, the Tootsie Roll invented by LEO HIRSCHFELD.
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1472, Orkney, Shetland islands put up as collateral by Norway to Scotland in lieu of dowry for MARGARET OF DENMARK on her marriage with JAMES III, king of Scotland; 1962, JOHN GLENN first American to orbit Earth.
- TOMORROW'S HEADLINES TODAY: City mayoral candidates debate campaign issues; Hartford, Conn., woman still missing; Neal Goswami reports attempts to legislate suicide; local woman loses 100 pounds through TOPS program.
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1878, JOHN TUNSTALL murdered near Lincoln, New Mexico, by the outlaw JESSE EVANS; in 1930, ELM FARM OLLIE first cow to fly in aircraft, first to be milked airborne; 1955, nuke test WASP; '79, snow in Sahara.
- TOMORROW'S HEADLINES TODAY: Rutland Herald News Editor Alan J. Keays and staff writer Gordon Dritschilo discuss stories planned for the February 18, 2015, edition of the newspaper: Winter budgets maxed, legal marijuana, Springfield bank job, USPS slowdown
- RICHARD'S POOR ALMANACK: On this day in 1249 AD, ANDRE of LONGJUMEAU is dispatched by LOUIS IX of France to meet the KHAGAN, ruler of the Mongol Empire; in 1804, during 1st Barbary War, STEPHEN DECATUR scuttles the pirate-held USS Philadelphia in Tripoli.


text:
Time zone conversion using GNU date
From Brandonhutchinson.com
There are excellent Web-based time zone converters[1], but it is easy to do on a UNIX system using zdump and GNU date.
These examples were performed on a Ubuntu system.
What is the current time in the system-wide timezone? (I don't have the TZ environment variable set, so I'm using the system-wide timezone)
$ date Fri Nov 9 14:06:15 CST 2007
What is the current time in Sydney, Australia?
$ TZ=Australia/Sydney date Sat Nov 10 07:07:38 EST 2007
What is the time in Sydney, Australia, when it's 9 pm CST today? (If you don't specify the current date after -d, it uses tomorrow's date)
$ TZ=Australia/Sydney date -d '11/9/2007 21:00 CST' Sat Nov 10 14:00:00 EST 2007
What is the time in Sydney, Australia, when it's 9 pm CST on 2007/11/12?
$ TZ=Australia/Sydney date -d '11/12/2007 21:00 CST' Tue Nov 13 14:00:00 EST 2007
Which time zones may I choose from?
$ $ find /usr/share/zoneinfo -type f


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The Highland Mint Green Bay Packers Aaron Rodgers Panoramic Photo Mint
Product Information:
Capture your favorite athlete's best moments with The Highland Mint® Green Bay Packers Aaron Rodgers panoramic photo mint. High-definition action images of Rodgers across the front remind you of his excellence on the gridiron. Bold, team-colored double matting and a minted, team-specific coin helps create a classic piece of Packers memorabilia. Decorate your home or office in team spirit with The Highland Mint® panoramic mint.
- The Highland Mint® Green Bay Packers Aaron Rodgers panoramic photo
- High-definition action graphics of Rodgers in panoramic layout
- Team-colored double matting on front for quality and pride
- Minted, team-specific commemorative coin on middle
- Durable frame and glass covering for protection
- Frame measures approximately 12" x 20"
- Collage measures approximately 7" x 15"
- Officially licensed by the NFL®
- The Highland Mint
Country of Origin: ImportedWeb ID: 23995136


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Fine Fibers Hand Dyed in Exceptional Colors
For Over Thirty Years
Please call if you have any questions/need help! 207-460-9276
Dim Sum
We're open today!
Please come visit our air-conditioned shop in Portland, Maine, located in a former molasses factory, in historic Old Port shopping district!
Previews of new designs & colors can be found at our Facebook page – link below!
Microfiber Ribbon Winding Video ~ click here!
"The mailman just delivered some of the most beautiful yarn I have ever seen! I love it! Thank you so much for all of your products – they truly make knitting even more relaxing and fulfilling than it is with any other yarn!"
You can download brochure (button above right) for easy access to yarn info in one place
~ favorite colorways, skein yardage & wt, fiber content, price, washing instructions & more!
Tess' Designer Yarns offers exceptional colors of hand dyed yarns in quality fibers at reasonable prices. From vivid variegated splashed yarns to sophisticated subtle neutrals, we have the yarns you need for your next knitting project. With over thirty years experience hand dyeing, you can count on Tess' for the highest quality.
All yarns are dyed by one person ~ each batch is unique ~ no formulas!! We still offer yarns that are really hand dyed ~ we do not try to produce massive quantities of yarn ~ just the best quality in the most gorgeous colors.
Presently, to order yarn from website, first select color ~ either solid or variegated. after selecting color, then choose yarn from drop down menu. Just like our shop and show displays have always been organized ~ color first!
Separate undyed yarn listings are sold at a 20% discount off regular prices. A flat rate of $6 for packing is added to all orders except patterns. Shipping is set up at $2 per item.
Thank you for your suggestions to improve our website. We're excited to have a site where you can browse & shop whenever you want! Please feel free to call if you have questions or need assistance .
Site navigation tip for new visitors ~ choose color, then fiber & if you need any help, please call 207-460-9276!
If you have not ordered from us previously, please click on link below to see what people say. New pictures & updates can usually be found at our Facebook page first ~ link below.


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ARLINGTON (January 17, 2013) -- The Texas Rangers have finalized a $55 million, five-year contract with All-Star left-hander Matt Harrison.
The deal announced Thursday includes a 2018 club option that could become guaranteed depending on the number of innings Harrison pitches.
Harrison was 18-11 with a 3.29 ERA in 32 starts last year and is 32-20 over 399 innings during the past two seasons. He started Game 7 of the 2011 World Series, which the Rangers lost at St. Louis.
Texas acquired Harrison along with shortstop Elvis Andrus and right-hander Neftali Feliz from Atlanta in July 2007 in a seven-player deal that sent Mark Teixeira to the Braves.
Harrison has a career record of 48-30 with a 4.08 ERA in 126 games the past five years.
The deal came a day after the 27-year-old left-hander filed for salary arbitration. Harrison could have become a free agent following the 2014 season.


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Accounting and Information Systems
The Study of Accounting
Accounting is often called "the language of business." It is the primary information system used in the management of private corporations, government and not-for-profit organizations.
The accounting curriculum is designed to develop professional and technical competence in accounting and related business fields. Liberal education courses in the university Core Curriculum enhance the skills and philosophies needed for success in an accounting career. Course studies are completed by assignments involving library research, writing, and microcomputer applications. Electives include an accounting internship.
The 150-hour Option. The public accounting profession requires that in order to be eligible to become a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, candidates must have completed at least 150 semester hours of college-level education. In addition, 54 jurisdictions have incorporated this educational requirement into their licensing regulations. With careful planning, Susquehanna accounting majors are able to accumulate 150 semester hours by taking 18 hours per semester. Students are advised to discuss their options with their academic advisers.
The Study of Information Systems
Students interested in systems analysis, business applications of technology or a career in data management should elect information systems as their major or minor.
The information systems curriculum is a bachelor of arts degree program designed to develop professional and technical competence in computers, business and related fields. The program has considerable overlap with computer science and requires substantial programming and hand-on computer work. Liberal education courses in the university Core curriculum enhance the skills and aptitudes needed for success in an information systems career. Courses are complemented by a variety of assignments including writing and presentation as well as development of computer applications. Electives include computer-related courses from other fields as well as internship, independent study, and off-campus study opportunities.
Double major/minor in computer science and information systems: Because of the large overlap in courses in the two majors, the department will approve a double major or major/minor combination only if the student presents to the department a plan of study that sufficiently minimizes such overlap.


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Study after study shows that if you love your job, you'll be 150% happier with your life than one of the 847% of Americans who dread their jobs. Why stay in a career that drains you when you can enroll in a certificate or degree program than can literally change your life for the better!?
You may have fallen into the trap of thinking the sole point of work is to bring home enough money to live comfortably. While adequate compensation is important in any job, it's not the whole story. If you are unsatisfied with what you do every day, it takes a toll on your physical and mental health. You may feel burned out and frustrated, anxious, depressed, or unable to enjoy time at home knowing another workday is ahead. What's more, if you don't find your work meaningful and rewarding, it's hard to keep the momentum going to advance in your career. You are more likely to be successful in a career that you feel passionate about.
Whether you're looking to enter the work force for the first time or contemplating a career change, the first step to choosing a fulfilling career is to uncover the activities that get you excited and bring you joy.


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I gave birth on August 1st, 2011 for the first time.
They did a classical incision.
I suffered severe pre-eclampsia and have a fibroid.
One doctor told me to wait 2 years to TTC. The other told me a year and half would be okay. I have yet to speak with a specialist on how much my body has healed in the past year but i feel very strong.
My question is, for those of you who had a similar experience, how long did you wait to try again?


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Comparing catalogs of various seminaries is a helpful way to learn in what ways a seminary is distinct: where its focus lies and what its goals are. The academic catalog gives you a snapshot of the priorities of each degree program.
So, what does Westminster emphasize and will those emphases train you for doing ministry both while you're in seminary and once you graduate? Westminster's philosophy of education is to ensure that, upon your graduation, you are as competent as you possibly can be in the areas of Biblical Studies (Old Testament and New Testament), Apologetics, Systematic Theology, Church History, and Practical Theology. In our M.Div. program, for example, you won't see Systematic Theology I and II; you will see Prolegomena (Intro. to Systematic Theology), Doctrine of God, Doctrine of Man, Doctrine of Christ, Doctrine of the Church, and Doctrine of Salvation – SIX classes on doctrine. We take no shortcuts in our curriculum because we want you to leave here with no regrets. For a lifetime of ministry, you want your money's worth — and you will get that at Westminster.
Philadelphia is an incredibly diverse location that offers you almost any choice of ministry opportunity. Many people come to Westminster for that very reason. What we prioritize, however, is not the geographical location of our institution but the content and quality of our teaching. If Westminster were located in a remote region of a Midwest state, we believe it would still be the best seminary in the world because of what is taught, not where it is taught. You will have the rest of your ministry life to hone what God desires and what you prefer for your geographical location. Your time in seminary is a time that prepares you to take the content of your education to an urban setting, a suburban setting, an international setting, a college campus setting, or a completely rural setting. Fortunately, the Philadelphia area offers all of the above!
One very important question to ask any seminary is, "What is your view of Scripture, and how is that view applied consistently within every department?" In other words, does Scripture ultimately inform and ground every discipline and the content of every class that is offered? At Westminster, we believe that Scripture actually has a lot to say about itself — its God-breathed character (2 Tim 3:16), its ultimate authority over all of life and experience (2 Pet 1:16–21), even the Christ-centered nature of the entire Old Testament (Luke 24:44f). These truths are woven into our disciplines and expanded upon in the coursework.
Does the seminary's counseling program teach that Scripture is the ultimate authority on who people are, how our behavior works, what our relationships are supposed to look like under God, etc.? Does the seminary's apologetics department take seriously what Paul says in Romans 1 — that all men know God, that they are in a relationship with God (either in Christ or in Adam), that God's invisible attributes are clearly perceived but that sin causes us to suppress knowledge of those attributes? Even seminaries that fly the "Reformed" banner can disagree on core disciplines. It is one thing to be Gospel-centered and Bible-centered, or even Reformed, but it is quite another thing to apply that consistently through every single class in every single department. Westminster can confidently affirm that it does so.
The current age is one in which a vast amount of information is customized and delivered right to your desk on a screen. Whether it's driving directions, the news, or the weather, computers and their associated devices have become the place we go in order to seek information, but not necessarily knowledge—and certainly not wisdom. Knowledge, wisdom, and most training are delivered face-to-face, where people interact with each other and ask personal questions. The trend in distance education can be helpful to some, especially at an undergraduate level, but Westminster's philosophy of education sees the irreplaceable value of not mere information-transfer, but genuine mentoring. So a physical presence in a classroom, asking questions, discussing classes within the seminary community, developing relationships with a world-class faculty – these are priceless facets of education that become impossible to replicate through a computer screen. Having said that, we do recognize that non-credit education is also crucial for the church's growth, and not taking advantage of the ease and inexpensive benefits of online education would be simply irresponsible to the church throughout the world. So we have offered a number of free lectures and full classes through iTunesU.
Whether you are already in ministry and want to brush up on certain topics, or you are a potential student wanting to know something of the unique character of Westminster, we invite you to discover a small taste of campus through iTunesU, our YouTube channel, our Facebook page, and our Twitter posts. Feel free to email us at email@example.com if you want to experience even more! We look forward to seeing you on campus.
Westminster Theological Seminary - 2960 Church Road, Glenside PA 19038 - 215-887-5511© Copyright/Privacy 2014 Westminster Theological SeminaryDesigned and Developed by Trinet Internet Solutions


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Peace-Of-Mind Warranty Protection
Comfortmaker units are backed by exceptional warranties*, including our No Hassle Replacement™ limited warranty, which gives the original purchaser a replacement unit if the heat exchanger should fail due to defect within the first ten years. You also get a 10 year parts limited warranty upon timely registration and a lifetime heat exchanger limited warranty upon timely registration.
*Timely registration required for 10 year limited parts warranty. Limited warranty period is 5 years for parts if not registered within 90 days of installation. Jurisdictions where warranty benefits cannot be conditioned on registration will receive the registered limited warranty periods. Please see warranty certificate for further details and restrictions.


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Leopard Print Tennis Skirt
Style # 217558
AVAILABILITY: Unavailable for immediate shipment.
High-impact leopard print and comfy stretch make this bebe skirt a hot way to update your activewear look. Made from lightweight high-performance fabric that dries 10 times faster than cotton.
- 77% nylon, 23% spandex
- Center back to hem: 14" (36 cm)
- BE-FIT fabric
- Short included
- Machine wash according to care instructions
- Made in USA with imported materials
- Model is 5'9" and is wearing a US size S
Rated 5 out of 5�by 1 reviewer.
Rated 5 out of 5�by momof4 tennis skirt the skirt is too big at the hip line. otherwise it is Very comfortable and sexy. July 31, 2013
1-1 of 1


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At a glance: Exercise Physiology
Did you know? Ohio Northern's exercise physiology program is one of only 18 undergraduate colleges in the country, and the only traditional undergraduate school in the Midwest, to receive accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
Exercise Physiology Features:
Feel the Burn
Exercise physiology is a combination of basic and applied sciences. Exercise physiologists are involved in the healthcare network by establishing exercise, fitness, and rehabilitative prescriptions, standards, and priorities. Exercise physiologists work in health promotion, fitness facilities, colleges and universities, clinical rehabilitation facilities, and sport and athletic conditioning programs.
Distinctive Features and Objectives
- Accredited by the Committee on the Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP)
- Recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Education Recognition Program (ERP)
- Nationally recognized certification exams hosted on-campus (i.e. Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist exam)
- On-campus faculty and staff fitness programming
- Practical, real-world experience gained by completing a 400-hour self-selected internship
- Involvement in campus and community health promotion programming
- Modern exercise physiology testing equipment
- Exercise testing of ONU athletic teams
- Small class sizes (15-20 students)
- Small student-to-faculty ratio
- High graduate school and job placement rates
- Choice of two unique exercise physiology major options: clinical/research or personal training/corporate fitness
- 2,300-square-foot exercise physiology lab
- Modern exercise physiology testing equipment
- PAR-Q Trueone 2400 Metabolic Cart
- BOD POD Body Composition Analyzer
- Dartfish Motion Analysis System
- Force Plate Transducer
- Cybex Isokinetic Dynamometer
- Max-1 Treadmill
- ECG machines
- Monarch Leg Ergometers
- Cholesterol analyzer
- Body composition analyzers
- Renovated fitness facilities
- Modern physiological and exercise testing equipment
- Renovated classrooms and departmental office
Student Organizations
HPSS Majors Club, Pre-PT Majors Club
Program Outcomes
Assess aerobic capacity, muscular endurance and strength, power and flexibility of sedentary and trained individuals
Assess individual exercise capacities of sedentary and trained individuals
Implement exercise prescriptions to improve the exercise capacities of sedentary and trained individuals
Be proficient at exercise programming of sedentary and trained individuals
Implement health promotion programs for sedentary individuals
Act as a resource for community and campus wellness programming
Promote campus and community exercise programming
Prepare students for clinical and professional certifications
Prepare students for their chosen career professions
Perform common exercise physiology assessments of sedentary and trained individuals
Exercise specialists in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation programs
Exercise technologists in cardiology clinics
Managers and exercise leaders in corporate wellness programs
Researchers and supervisors in sports medicine and adult fitness programs
Supervisors of specialized health, fitness, wellness or lifestyle programs
Strength coaches for college, university and professional sports programs
Personal trainers and fitness instructors in health and fitness centers and YMCAs
Fitness instructors and supervisors at the state, regional and national levels in sports and athletic programs
Graduate Schools
Graduates have been accepted to a variety of graduate programs, including exercise physiology, cardiac rehabilitation, physical therapy, occupational therapy, nutrition, nursing, kinesiology, biomechanics, adult fitness, sports psychology and chiropractic, at: The Ohio State University, Medical University of Ohio, University of Toledo, Ohio University, Bowling Green State University, University of Cincinnati, Ball State University, Western Michigan University, Boston University, Ithaca College, East Tennessee State University, Wheeling Jesuit University, Marshall University, Emory & Henry College, University of North Carolina, Cleveland Chiropractic College
Career Opportunities
Exercise physiology and related healthcare occupations are expected to make up 7 of the 20 fastest growing occupations (the largest proportion of any occupational group). Employment opportunities in fitness, healthcare and health-related industries are projected to increase 25-30% over the next decade, with more than 3 out of every 10 new jobs created in healthcare. Fitness and recreation sports centers will provide many new jobs as these establishments become more common and continue to need trained professionals to care for their clients. Employment growth will be driven by increasing demand for healthcare by an aging population and longer life expectancies.
In the spotlight
ONU is one of only 14 undergraduate exercise science programs in the nation, and the only program in Ohio, to be accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). ONU is one of the few traditional undergraduate institutions without a graduate program in exercise physiology to receive this honor.
The ONU exercise physiology program is recognized by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA) Education Recognition Program. ONU has hosted two national certification exams, and the student success rate on the Certification Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification exam is 83 percent.
Over the last five years, 91 percent of the ONU exercise physiology graduates who applied to graduate school were accepted within three months of graduation. In fact, 85 percent of ONU's exercise physiology graduates have attended graduate school after completing their degrees.
Exercise physiology became a major in 2002, and the number of students enrolled in the program has nearly tripled in the last five years. Demand for qualified exercise physiologists is expected to increase in the future. Employment opportunities in health care, fitness and health-related industries are projected to increase 25-30 percent over the next decade (much faster than average). Health care and related occupations are expected to make up seven of the 20 fastest growing occupations, the largest proportion of any occupational group.


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Regan Smith dominated the Subway Firecracker 250 at Daytona International Speedway, but it was his JR Motorsports teammate who did the celebrating ...
Read more
1 Hikes | FVFn |
Brad Keselowski dominated the first 150 laps of the John R. Elliott Hero Campaign 300 at Kentucky Speedway Friday night, but it was Kevin Harvick w...
After so many Nationwide Series races the last few seasons we've only heard complaints. Complaints about boring races. Complaints about Sprint Cup ...
Watch it now
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Logitech announce the Harmony Link universal remote for iPhone and iPad [video]
Logitech is well known for its range of Harmony universal remote controls and now it has announced one which will give you all the control you need; using your iPad, iPhone or iPod touch. Instead of using an ugly dongle or case, this uses a WiFi enabled receiver which converts the input received from your iOS device into an infrared output to you home theater kit. The companion iPhone and iPad apps will be available as free downloads from the App Store.
The Logitech Harmony Link connects to your existing home wireless network to receive Wi-Fi signals from the Harmony Link App and turns them into IR commands that home-entertainment devices can understand. Harmony Link can control up to eight devices, is compact (about the size of a hockey puck) and was designed to integrate neatly and discreetly with your home entertainment system. Harmony Link can even connect with more than one iPad at a time, letting multiple family members use their own iPad - with their own set of favorite channels - rather than fighting over a single remote.
Logitech has also teamed up with Rovi Corporation to provide detailed program information within its app. This will deliver show synopses, movie information and images as you navigate available TV channels.
The Harmony Link should be available in October for around $99.99. The price does seem reasonable when compared to stand alone universal remote controllers. The apps will be available as a free download from the App Store when the Harmony Link is launched.
Have something to say about this story? Leave a comment! Need help with something else? Ask in our forums!
Reader comments
Logitech announce the Harmony Link universal remote for iPhone and iPad [video]
$100... Are you serious?
My Harmony 1100 was $500, $100 is a SMALL price to pay for a better touchscreen experience and overall faster use.
Now, I'm assuming your comment is a scoff at the price not praise.
Get back to me once you experience the true OVERALL FASTER USE ;)
Have you ever use a 1100? It does leave some things to be desired, like speed and touchscreen quality.
WARNING : Skype For iPhone XSS Vulnerability Allows Hackers To Steal Your Information. http://j.mp/qqawP2
Now this is something I can get behind. Right now using a Harm 650. Works great but only five devices. With the comob of items I have that gets used up fast. One question, where are they going to get the program data like they had in the vid?
Hmm...tempting, but only as an additional option. TV watching is an instant-gratification thing. Judging from the video, changing the volume would involve:
1) Push the home button to wake the iPad
2) Swipe to unlock
3) Launch app (if not present in foreground) and wait
4) Slide across to get the on-screen remote present
5) Enter my channel/push volume-up
By the time you want to mute that annoying too-loud commercial, the commercial is half-over. Contrast that with my stone-age Harmony remote:
1) Push the volume up button
Now, if the additional program guide lets me use some of the iPad's goodness to avoid my cableco's abysmal on-screen keyboard for searches and similar tasks, I would definitely use it, but, for day-to-day TV use, it seems awkward.
This one was one of my concerns but I have found that with other apps that I use in which I do not want this to happen, I can simply turn off the locking functions and dim the pad. Doing this, the battery lasts for the more than the day and I can easily turn off the screen when I'm done. Further, the app is always running when I need it.
One of the reasons I wont be getting this.