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Charles Lane: Handing prisons over to the unions is a really bad ideaBY CHARLES LANE
May 07. 2013 5:26PM
Even by the standards of America's troubled jails and prisons, the scandal at the Baltimore City Detention Center is appalling.
A gang known as the Black Guerrilla Family took over the center, trafficking in drugs, cellphones and sexual favors with the connivance of at least 13 guards, several of whom are bearing a gang boss' children, according to a federal indictment.
Among the many lessons from this sorry situation is one that experience elsewhere has already taught many times: Good governance is not necessarily consistent with the demands of government unions, in this case the union representing Maryland's correctional officers.
God-awful as it is, the mess at the center was not exactly unprecedented. Between April 2009 and August 2010, the Baltimore City Paper published 14 articles detailing gang-related corruption at state correctional institutions.
And it was during this time that Maryland's branch of the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) lobbied for legislation known as the "Correctional Officers Bill of Rights" (COBR).
Advertised as much-needed procedural protection against unfair accusations of brutality, COBR established elaborate rules - including a guaranteed appeal hearing in front of a three-member board of fellow officers - for correctional officers suspected of wrongdoing. The bill says that prison managers can't even "threaten" prosecution, transfer, dismissal or disciplinary action during questioning.
It passed the House of Delegates unanimously and the Senate 44 to 2. Gov. Martin O'Malley, D, signed it into law on May 4, 2010.
In the union's view, prison administrators had "pulled the trigger too quickly" on discipline in the past, as AFSCME spokesman Jeff Pittman put it.
But according to an FBI special agent's affidavit attached to the Baltimore indictment, COBR has all but disarmed managers at the Baltimore jail. Discipline "has proven to be very difficult," the agent wrote, and "the internal review process set up by COBR is ineffective as a deterrent to [correctional officers] smuggling contraband or getting sexually involved with BGF gang members."
These consequences may have been unintended, but they were hardly unforeseeable. Shortly before COBR was passed in 2010, the City Paper asked the bill's chief sponsor, state Sen. Donald Munson, how it might affect the department's efforts to purge gang-connected correctional officers. "I've never thought of this measure in this context," Munson replied. "My guess is that the correctional officers who are going to be judges are going to be very hard on those cases," he added. "If it doesn't work, we'll fix it in the future."
A Republican, Munson at the time was fighting - unsuccessfully, it turned out - for reelection in a Washington County district heavily populated with unionized correctional officers and their families. (He declined my request to comment.)
Not only was support for COBR bipartisan but the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services, under O'Malley, also backed the bill, in part because it lengthened the period after which management must either file or drop a charge from 30 days to 90.
In almost every other way, however, the legislation weakened management prerogatives, a state surrender of control over its workforce that's difficult to explain in terms of the public interest - but easy to explain politically.
Keeping watch over often-violent offenders is a tough job that most correctional officers do honestly. They deserve a decent wage and fair treatment on the job.
But neither they nor any other workers who serve the public deserve special influence over state government.
That is what they get when their unions accumulate cash through mandatory dues checkoffs - from tax-funded payrolls - and spend it on campaign contributions and lobbying.
One of the most powerful public-sector unions in the country is the California Correctional Peace Officers Association, which used its political might to secure not only expensive pensions and benefits but also passage of a "three strikes and you're out" law - which created jobs for unionized correctional officers by swelling California's prison population.
Maryland's correctional officers union is not nearly that powerful, but its officials are working on it.
"From the beginning, AFSCME Maryland set an aggressive agenda," the union's Web site boasts. "Recognizing that state laws and political decisions controlled our work lives, AFSCME Maryland members embarked on a mission to develop political power through legislative action."
COBR epitomizes that strategy. Among the "correctional officer's rights" specified in Section 11-1004 of the bill, "political activity" is first on the list.
Charles Lane is a member of The Washington Post's editorial board.


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Skip to comments.ACLU: [Mex/US] Border deaths a humanitarian crisis
Posted on 10/01/2009 9:26:33 AM PDT by NativeNewYorker
SAN DIEGO, Oct. 1 (UPI) -- The number of deaths at unauthorized U.S.-Mexico border crossings must be recognized as an international humanitarian crisis, a civil liberties group said.
U.S., Mexican and international officials must respond to the deaths with reforms that make human life a priority, a report released Wednesday by American Civil Liberties Union of San Diego and Imperial Counties and Mexico's National Commission on Human Rights said.
The report, "Humanitarian Crisis: Migrant Deaths at the U.S.-Mexico Border," found that border deaths have increased despite fewer unauthorized crossings because of the economic downturn, the ACLU said in a news release. The report marks the 15th anniversary of the border enforcement policy Operation Gatekeeper that concentrated border agents and added walls and fencing along populated areas.
"The current policies in place on both sides of the U.S.-Mexico border have created a humanitarian crisis that has led to the deaths of more than 5,000 people," said Kevin Keenan, executive director of the ACLU-San Diego and Imperial Counties. "Because of deadly practices and policies like Operation Gatekeeper, the death toll continues to rise unabated despite the decrease in unauthorized crossings due to economic factors."
Since Operation Gatekeeper began in 1994, an estimated 5,600 migrants have died while attempting unauthorized border crossings, the ACLU said.
The report recommends actions the U.S. and Mexican governments should take to protect and advance the right to life of migrants, including:
-- Recognizing border crossing deaths as an international humanitarian crisis.
-- Adopting sensible, humane immigration and border policies.
-- Shifting more U.S. Border Patrol resources to search- and-rescue operations.
-- Directing government agencies to allow humanitarian organizations to do their work to save lives and recover remains.
ISGAB - I scarcely give an Obama.
Deaths on the border? Who's fault is that? It sure isn't our fault. If these people don't want to die, stay out of the desert and stop trying to enter the US illegally.
Of course the are....
Just open the border to anyone and everyone and problem solved, huh ACLU? =.=
round aclu up and put them in camps.
THANK YOU!!! When will people be held accountable for thier own actions???
So how many Americans have died at the hands of illegal aliens in the last 10 years?
Is that a humanitarian crisis or just a mere inconvenience?
Then Mexico should allow the international community to set up medical facilities and camps on the Mexican side of the border, administered by the UN. Meanwhile, we need a better fence.
"Adopting sensible, humane immigration and border policies."
Only need 1: Stay Out
Reminds me of:
Patient: "Doctor, it hurts when I do this."
Doctor: "Stop doing that."
No it's not. It is an INVASION. THAT is what it must be reconized as and it is past time to shut down the damn border.
'civil liberites group' As if that means something...
ed You and RC2 should send your fine common sense logical and legals suggestions to the ACLU and then bill them for " consultation"
Stay the F in your own country and live.
"The number of deaths at unauthorized U.S.-Mexico border crossings must
be recognized as an international humanitarian crisis, a civil
liberties group said."
Empower citizens to patrol the border with allowances to fire warning
shots and, if unheeded, seize invaders for detention and repatriation.
And give them immunity if found they were justified in firing back
when fired upon by invaders.
What's so complicated about this, Democrats?
(and some dimwit Republican Senators/Congress-Critters!!!)
Hey you ACLU IDIOTS!!....KEEP OUT! or PROCEED AT YOUR OWN RISK! signs should be enough....
ACLU, go to hell!
They forgot one:
— One warning to the Mexican government: to stop encouraging, aiding and abetting its citizens in their criminal invasion of the USA.
Of course the ALCU wants this an "international" crisis, since they despise Constitutional law.
This is 5600 people in FIFTEEN YEARS. US Homeland Security officials have put the figure at 3,861. And note the correct term is have died, not have been killed. Many die because it is the desert after all.
Peculiar how the ACLU doesn't consider the, 4000+ daily/1.5 million a year, slaughters of innocent little unborn boys and girls within our borders a crisis at all - just simply drowns out their dubious claim, huh!
Mexicans used to cross in a safe area, but Bill Clinton put up the wall that forced them to go around in the desert:
Of course, we do have a "legal" and safe way to enter this country. All immigrants from every other country did it, why not the Mexicans?
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.

subset: commoncrawl


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Featured News - Current News - Archived News - News Categories
by Joshua Maloni
On Monday, the Village of Lewiston Board of Trustees approved a development plan for an 80-by-120-by-35-foot indoor tennis facility on the Waste Technology Services campus at 435 N. Second St.
The proposal, submitted by architect David Giusiana on behalf of WTS President and CEO Gary Hall, was originally approved in March. But, following receipt of a letter from Town of Lewiston Supervisor Steve Reiter in mid-April, in which the Planning Board was criticized for an inferred lack of attention to detail, trustees withdrew their approval.
"There was questions, procedurally, whether it had been (submitted and filed) properly relative to the SEQRA (New York's State Environmental Quality Review Act), and that's why it was revisited by the Planning Board and it's being revisited by the trustees tonight," said Giusiana, who also serves as chairman of the Planning Board.
"Legal counsel ... tells us we're perfectly right in what we've done; what we're doing," said Mayor Terry Collesano. "We're correcting any oversights at this point. So, we're carrying on. We're moving forward."
With regard to Reiter's letter, Collesano said, "Obviously, the laws and rules in the town are different than the village. He may be very well correct in how it would be done in the town, but in the village we followed everything according to our laws."
Still, the Village Board opted to complete a more detailed Environmental Assessment Form, and to send Hall's plan to the Niagara County Planning Board before approving it a second time.
The EAF, which was prepared by Village Engineer Michael Marino, indicates the tennis facility does not pose a large environmental impact. It will primarily be constructed on top of the WTS parking lot.
The Niagara County Planning Board, which is a recommending body, did not approve Hall's proposal based on a technicality (it received more "yes" votes than "no" votes, but not the prerequisite majority).
North Second Street resident Robert Martinez, who has served on the Town of Lewiston Planning Board, last week claimed WTS was in violation of its special use permit, which was granted in 2002. He said the new tennis complex, which would be built across the street from his house, was an accessory building outside the guidelines of what the permit allows.
Village Attorney Edward Jesella disagreed and said, "Everything was done correctly."
"I'm not going to sit here and argue every point that comes up regarding this position," he added. "It went to the Planning Board. They did what they had to do. Quite honestly, I'm not even sure that you had to go back to the Planning Board. But they went back. Everything was done - they dotted their I's, crossed their T's. ... I'm here to tell you that I believe everything was done correctly."
Developer Sylvester "Sonny" Barone and his wife, Kathy, live and own additional lots to the north of WTS. They said the recreation facility threatens to lower their property value, and asked for more time to speak with Hall in hopes he would move the new building to the south side of his parking lot. They also criticized the Village Board for approving the project when they were out of town.
"As far as the sensitivity of the neighbors, we've looked at that," Deputy Mayor Bruce Sutherland said. "When it first came out with the proposed plan, the notifications went out, as required, through the paper and everything. But there were some people that were not here, and there were some questions on the process and so forth. So, we went back and we redid the whole process again, and went through a long-form EAF, where we didn't have to; we went to the county, where we don't really have to. We've done everything, I think, by the book. And so, that process was restarted, looked at, and I think we're at a point now where we can look at the project - which I think is going to be a beautiful building. It'll be an addition to what's there, and I think it will look nice when it's done."
"This is a situation where a public official really never wants to get into because, no matter how you vote, you're going to have some people upset at you, and you're going to have some people very happy with you," Collesano said. "It's difficult in this respect: I know where people are coming from; I can understand your concerns. But just look at it the other way: I don't know what color your house is, but say it was blue. You might think the house (color) blue is beautiful, but maybe your neighbors may not like it. Maybe you like the flowers you got in your garden, but maybe your neighbors don't like the flowers. But you know what? It's your property. As long as you go by the code, and you follow everything - cross your T's and dot your I's - then it has to be approved."
Collesano said the Village Board opted to review the tennis center proposal a second time primarily to give residents the opportunity to comment.
"We didn't have to do it, but we felt that was the right thing to do, considering that they came out to the Planning Board and they were voicing their objections and so forth," he said. "We wanted to follow-through properly, where everybody had the chance to voice their opinions."
The Village Board voted 4-0 in favor of Hall's proposal. Trustee Vic Eydt was not in attendance.
Brian Hall, speaking on behalf of his father, said construction on the recreation complex is slated to begin this spring. He did not have a cost estimate.
"My father very much cares for his employees," Hall said. "Building a health and wellness center for WTS employees, he felt, was the right thing to do. Health and wellness is very important. We want our employees to be happy, healthy. If they are, they're going to be more productive workers. As a leader of WTS, (he) has always put the employees first. And this is just another example of that, of doing something that is going to benefit the employees."
The tennis facility will be private, and is not expected to increase traffic to the WTS site.


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Copyright Maximalist Disney Accused Of Copying Artist's Painting On Cosmetic Bag
from the copyright-is-for-me,-not-for-thee dept
That said, it does feel a little bit shady for Woodger to complain about someone else using her image, when her image is clearly based on the work of others as well. That's how creativity works. Still, given Disney's general maximalist tendencies, it's telling that even it can be found to copy the work of others without permission. For what it's worth, there are lots of stories of companies pulling random designs and artwork that they find on the internet and placing it on t-shirts and bags and other products. It's just somewhat ironic to see it being done by Disney in particular.


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Aging Services Access Points, known in the elder network as ASAPs, were established under Chapter 19A of Massachusetts General Laws. There are 26 ASAPs statewide in exclusive geographic areas. ASAPs are private, non-profit agencies with Governing Boards made up of at least 51% representation of person's age 60 or older and appointed by the local Councils on Aging.
ASAPs provide the following direct services: Information and Referral; interdisciplinary case management: intake, assessment, development and implementation of service plans; monitoring of service plans; and reassessment of needs; and Protective Services: investigations of abuse and neglect of elders.
Click on www.800AGEINFO.com/map for a listing of your local ASAP.


text:
It is possible that the main title of the report Rubella, Congenital is not the name you expected. Please check the synonyms listing to find the alternate name(s) and disorder subdivision(s) covered by this report.
Congenital rubella is a syndrome that occurs when a fetus has been infected with the rubella virus while in the uterus. It is primarily characterized by abnormalities of the heart and nervous system, the eyes and the ears. The fetus is most vulnerable to the virus during the first three months of pregnancy, although pregnant women are advised to avoid exposure to rubella virus at all times. Women who contract rubella during pregnancy have a high risk of having a baby with congenital rubella.
March of Dimes Birth Defects Foundation
1275 Mamaroneck Avenue
White Plains, NY 10605
Tel: (914)997-4488
Fax: (914)997-4763
Tel: (888)663-4637
Email: email@example.com
Internet: http://www.marchofdimes.com
The Arc
1660 L Street, NW, Suite 301
Washington, DC 20036
Tel: (202)534-3700
Fax: (202)534-3731
Tel: (800)433-5255
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Internet: http://www.thearc.org
Helen Keller National Center for Deaf-Blind Youths and Adults
141 Middle Neck Road
Sands Point, NY 11050
Tel: (516)944-8900
Fax: (516)944-7302
Email: email@example.com
Internet: http://www.hknc.org
Genetic and Rare Diseases (GARD) Information Center
PO Box 8126
Gaithersburg, MD 20898-8126
Tel: (301)251-4925
Fax: (301)251-4911
Tel: (888)205-2311
Email: http://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/GARD/EmailForm.aspx
Internet: http://rarediseases.info.nih.gov/GARD
Perkins School for the Blind
175 North Beacon Street
Watertown, MA 02472
Tel: (617)924-3434
Fax: (617)926-2027
Email: firstname.lastname@example.com
Internet: http://www.Perkins.org
National Consortium on Deaf-Blindness
The Teaching Research Institute
345 N. Monmouth Avenue
Monmouth, OR 97361
Tel: (800)438-9376
Fax: (503)838-8150
Tel: (800)438-9376
Email: email@example.com
Internet: http://www.nationaldb.org
This is an abstract of a report from the National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc. ® (NORD). A copy of the complete report can be obtained for a small fee by visiting the NORD website. The complete report contains additional information including symptoms, causes, affected population, related disorders, standard and investigational treatments (if available), and references from medical literature. For a full-text version of this topic, see http://www.rarediseases.org/search/rdblist.html
The information provided in this report is not intended for diagnostic purposes. It is provided for informational purposes only. NORD recommends that affected individuals seek the advice or counsel of their own personal physicians.
It is possible that the title of this topic is not the name you selected. Please check the Synonyms listing to find the alternate name(s) and Disorder Subdivision(s) covered by this report
This disease entry is based upon medical information available through the date at the end of the topic. Since NORD's resources are limited, it is not possible to keep every entry in the Rare Disease Database completely current and accurate. Please check with the agencies listed in the Resources section for the most current information about this disorder.
For additional information and assistance about rare disorders, please contact the National Organization for Rare Disorders at P.O. Box 1968, Danbury, CT 06813-1968; phone (203) 744-0100; web site www.rarediseases.org or email firstname.lastname@example.com
Last Updated: 5/12/2008
Copyright 1986, 1989, 2004 National Organization for Rare Disorders, Inc.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.


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BitFenix Colossus E-ATX Case Review
Introduction and Specifications
BitFenix debuts Colossus as first prototype into PC enclosure market
Courtesy of BitFenix
BitFenix is a a new player in the PC enclosure market and their first prototype is a bold and innovative design that should stand out against other high-end cases. The Colossus has its front, left, and right side panels adorned with flowing blue (or red depending on your preference) LED lights that turn this case into something out of the new TRON Legacy movie. The case's deep dimensions allow for two 230mm fans and support for E-ATX motherboards. We get to preview this beast before it is available to U.S. consumers.
Courtesy of BitFenix
The Colossus is packed with features many PC builders add on their own like an integrated fan controller, USB 3.0 ports, and an advanced lighting system that can switch between blue and red lighting at the touch of a button. The fan controller, USB 3.0 ports, power/reset buttons are all conveniently located in a lockable storage compartment at the top of the case. They also included a nifty cable management system to route cables to the inside of the storage compartment without having to unlock it. Very cool.
Courtesy of BitFenix
This case supports all modern motherboard standards including micro ATX, ATX, and extended ATX configurations. It also has enough real estate to support seven 3.5" hard drives and five 5.25" optical devices. The Colossus also has several cable management features to route excess cables around the back of the motherboard tray. All of these features should make the Colossus a very attractive purchase for gamers and enthusiasts alike.
Technical Specifications taken from BitFenix's website
Materials: SECC, ABS
Color (Int/Ext): Black/Black or White/White
Dimensions (WxHxD): 245 x 558 x 582 mm (ATX Full Tower)
Motherboard Sizes: Mini-ITX, mATX, ATX, E-ATX
5.25" Drive Bays: x 5 (1 x external 3.5"; tool-free)
3.5" Drive Bays: x 7
2.5" Drive Bays: x 7 (using standard 3.5" drive bays)
Cooling Front: 1 x 230mm
Cooling Rear: 1 x 140mm (optional)
Cooling Top: 1 x 230mm (or 1 x 140/120mm optional)
Cooling Bottom: 1 x 140/120mm (optional)
PCI Slots: 8 (tool-free)
I/O: 2 x USB3.0, 2 x USB2.0, eSATA, Audio
Power Supply: PS2 ATX (bottom, multi direction)
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We are nearing the end of these weekly columns as my Senate offices are nearly closed and computers as well as equipment are being returned to the Senate. December 31st is the last day for my staff. I will officially leave office January 13, 2013.
We are nearing the end of these weekly columns as my Senate offices are nearly closed and computers as well as equipment are being returned to the Senate. December 31st is the last day for my staff. I will officially leave office January 13, 2013. After 20 years of public service, 8 as governor and 12 as senator, it is during these final weeks that I have a growing concern about the ability of Congress to work together, put aside partisanship, and address our country's problems. I've found that President Lincoln's admonishment more than 150 years ago holds true today: "A house divided against itself cannot stand". As governor, recognizing that urban and rural interests often differed, I created ONE Nebraska to bring both sides together to work out differences and move Nebraska forward. In the same manner, my hope in Washington was to bring together competing interests and create ONE Nation with both sides working together for the common good. While it worked for a time in the Senate, over the years, the atmosphere of multiplication and addition turned to an atmosphere of division and subtraction. My concerns have always been about getting the best legislation possible to help the most people and to benefit Nebraska. That requires working with others and not just taking the partisan solution. That made it very difficult, indeed, to accomplish anything. As someone who is willing to reach across the aisle and listen to other points of view, it was more than disappointing when the comradely became poisoned by partisanship. I would often think of the words of John F. Kennedy when he admonished those on Capitol Hill to work together. He would say, "Let us not seek the Republican answer or the Democratic answer, but the right answer. Let us not seek to fix the blame for the past. Let us accept our own responsibility for the future." Sadly, that attitude no longer prevails in Washington. Politics has gone from being a contact sport to actual combat. Today, too many are willing to bring this country to its knees just to make a point. It's driven by special interests more than anyone can remember; Obstructionism is the very thing that has made this country further divided. It was always my hope that Congress could do as the Founders did when they wrote the Constitution which was sometimes referred to as The Great Compromise. We had some successes during my dozen years in the Senate and some setbacks. Sadly, for some, the word "compromise" has become a dirty word. Early on in my term, I worked with 13 other senators to form The Gang of 14 which broke the political logjam on judicial nominations without erasing the rules of the Senate to protect minority views. Sitting together by state, regardless of political parties, during the State of the Union Address was another success in bringing different factions together. In 2001, shortly after my arrival in Washington, the terrorist attacks of 9/11 brought all sides together. Party labels weren't important. Instead of Democratic Senators or Republican Senators we had United States Senators. We were all in this together from the anthrax laced letters sent to elected officials, the media and others to the waging of two wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. I was one of several senators, from both parties, who toured the battlefields, met with foreign leaders and perhaps most importantly, met with members of our military who voluntarily put their lives on the line for God and Country. They weren't concerned about politics. They were concerned about proper management of the war. Our mission was to learn how best to proceed, not for the good of one party or the other but for the good of the country and we worked on it together. While we remain at war in Afghanistan and are ever vigilant of the possibility of more acts of terrorism, the lessons we learned early on have gone by the wayside. The foxhole conversion of working together toward a common goal has fallen to political ideology not only where war is concerned but most any issue you can name. I have always been a staunch advocate for Nebraska. As a rural state with a relatively small population someone needs to work hard in Washington to make sure our needs are not overlooked. Many of the bureaucrats in Washington think "rural" is the drive from DC to Baltimore. They just don't get it when it comes to rural states. That's why I always fought hard to make sure Nebraskans were not overlooked when it came to protecting agriculture and the environment and funding important projects all across our state including roads, bridges, water and sewer projects, and other infrastructure. In addition to such huge projects as a new headquarters for STRATCOM and a new VA hospital, working with local leaders I was able to secure federal funding for projects throughout rural Nebraska. These include improvements at Regional Airports in Grand Island, McCook, Scottsbluff, and Alliance. Earmarks are also helping the city of Columbus with its North Arterial Bypass, the Heartland Expressway in the Panhandle, and the Cherry Avenue Exit in Kearney that will provide a bypass for trucks and easy access for tourists to see the Archway. In the area of higher education, again, working with local leaders, I was able to secure federal funds for the Western Nebraska Community College's Advanced Technology Center, a College of Nursing in Norfolk, an Events Center at Mid Plains Community College in McCook, and a significant investment to the University of Nebraska at Kearney for projects as varied as solar cell research and renovation of the planetarium. Nebraskans send their tax dollars to Washington and they deserve to get some of them back for worthwhile projects. I always worked with local and state officials who sought help with these and other projects. All of my earmarks, including the names of those who requested them, were listed on my website so everything was above board. There were no "bridges to nowhere" among those earmarks. Another thing that was done above board was my vote on the Affordable Care Act which has become known as Obamacare. The offensive and unfair term "Cornhusker Kickback" became a nasty political attack on me personally and on anyone who supported making our health system affordable and available to all. The so called Cornhusker Kickback was designed to benefit all the states, not just Nebraska, in order to avoid an unfunded federal mandate to increase costs of Medicaid. The facts are Nebraskans are already benefitting from health care reform and will continue to benefit even more as it continues to fully take effect in the future. There have been some positive signs in Washington that both sides are at least attempting to come together and I sincerely hope they will because I, like most Nebraskans, want this country to succeed. My hope is that they will heed the words of Henry Ford when he said; "Coming together is a beginning. Keeping together is progress. Working together is success". Another favorite quote of mine was put on invitations for events held across Nebraska as kind of a going away party from the Senate. The quote sums up my feelings for public service. The quote, by author Heidi Willis, said simply, "we can choose to be affected by the world or we can choose to affect the world". Nebraskans share any affect I had on the world because I never acted without working closely with my fellow Nebraskans. I think we did that during two terms as governor and for at least part of my two terms as senator. Nothing would have been possible without the help of the people of Nebraska. We worked together and thus were able to make a positive difference on Nebraska which makes me very happy and proud.


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Our commercial cleaning services team in Stanmore offers a wide range of cleaning services such as Washroom Maintenance, Window Cleaning, Carpet Cleaning, Strip and Seal Floors and Rubbish Removal Services. We offer this services and will get things done on time with competitive cost.
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You can contact Clean Focus Cleaning Services at 02 9130 7550 or visit our website http://cleanfocus.com.au/ for more information about our commercial cleaning services in Stanmore. You can also submit an email on our website for faster transactions. We look forward to hearing from you.


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The Best Fan Response from A Double Life with Lisa Catherine Harper
Check out Bas Rutten's Liver Shot on MMA Surge: http://bit.ly/MMASurgeEp1 Hide Computer Files http://mhlo.co/hideFiles Lisa Catherine Harper, winner of the 2010 River Teeth Literary Nonfiction Prize and author of A Double Life: Discovering Motherhood, answers questions submitted by users on Reddit.com. Hear Lisa talk about everything from physical, mental, and emotional transformations of motherhood to her writing process, and see if one of your questions got answered! To purchase Lisa's books, click the link below: A Double Life: Discovering Motherhood - http://www.amazon.com/Double-Life-Discovering-Motherhood-Nonfiction/dp/0803235089/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1290842673&sr=8-1
Length: 02:24


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PESHAWAR, Pakistan (AP) — A Pakistani government official says an explosion has killed 10 members of a family in a remote tribal region in the country's northwest along the Afghan border.
Tahir Khan says Monday's explosion was from a suspected artillery shell that stored in the house in the village of Dars in the Tirah Valley. The valley is located in the Khyber tribal region.
Khan says the dead included women and children.
The valley had been a hotbed for Islamic militants until the Pakistan army captured it last year in fierce fighting.
Pakistani villagers in tribal regions have been known to keep remnants of exploded munitions and even unexploded shells in their homes, which has caused similar incidents in the past.


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Six Sexiest Shots Of Cassie From Esquire Magazine
Cassie stripped down and brought the sexy for her latest photo shoot in Esquire Magazine.
Plus, she even tells a joke for the mag's "Funny Joke from a Beautiful Woman" feature, video of which you can check out at Esquire.com.
Click through for some very sexy shots of the singer/model, as photographed by Chris Fortuna. Here's a hint – the final pic might be the best!


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We are absolutely heartbroken to have to be sharing these tips. But in the aftermath of the horrific Newtown, Conn., school shooting, images of terrfied children and adults will be ubiquitous in every form of media for days to come. Parents might be dealing with sad and scared kids, children who will ask about what happened in Newtown, whether it can happen to them. Then there is the unanswerable: "how could this happen?"
If you are struggling with the right thing to say, these tips from Dr. Paul Coleman, may help provide some solace. Goldman is a psychologist and author of How to Say It to Your Child When Bad Things Happen and has extensive experience specializing in anxiety disorders and marriage and family concerns.
- Be a soothing example. If you are personally traumatized in any way by the events in Newton, do your best to model calm. "Kids pay close attention to their parent's mood, so you should show this is all temporary," says Dr. Coleman. If you and your family are all safe and sound, "you can convey, yes, it's stressful, but eventually things will get back to normal." Emphasize the things that are already back to normal or that stayed the same throughout, like their family or favorite toys.
- Ask questions before explaining. "Don't rush in with an explanation without first trying to understand what your kids are worried about," says Dr. Coleman. "Don't be too quick to tell them not worry about it. Explore it a little." Once you know their specific concerns—are they worried about something similar happening to them or you–you can address them specifically and then reassure them.
- Don't label feelings as wrong. Let them know that their feelings make sense, and that it's ok to feel whatever they're feeling. Never make them feel bad about being scared or worried.
- Use your judgment about watching the news. "You have to know your child," says Dr. Coleman. "If they are young and impressionable, you might want to shield them. If your child is older, it can be a teaching moment."
- Wait until they're older. Until around age 7, Dr. Coleman suggests only addressing the tough stuff if kids bring it up first. "They might see it on TV or hear about it at school (or heaven forbid even witness it), and then you have to deal with it. But younger children might not be able to handle it well," says Dr. Coleman.
- Keep it black and white. Yes, the world can be a cruel place, but little kids, well, can't handle the truth."Younger kids need to be reassured that this isn't happening to them and won't happen to them," says Dr. Coleman. Parents may feel like they're lying, since no one can ever be 100% sure of what the future holds, but probability estimates are not something small kids can grasp, and won't comfort them.


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QOTSA Guitar Gear - Troy Van Leeuwen & Josh Homme On Tour
QOTSA Guitar Gear - Troy Van Leeuwen & Josh Homme On Tour
Check out the full Premier Guitar interview...
If you're looking for more gear goodness...
Our guide to the finest distortion pedals.
The Arctic Monkeys Gear Guide, these boys have certainly picked up a few tips from Josh Homme in recent years.
Troy Van Leeuwen recently revealed what gear he's been using on the latest Queens Of The Stone Age tour. Speaking to Premier Guitar he revealed his love of the Vox AC30, digital effects and Fender Jazzmasters. They also took a little peak at Josh Homme's guitar and amp setup, no sight of his pedal board but the hints are not expect any magical black boxes, just great quality standard production pedals like Troys.
Watching the video we can see some hard rock classics and plenty of Way Huge pedals along with an MXR Envelope Filter and the Digitech Whammy for when things get wild and funky.
More Way Huge, Boss RV-5, everyone's fave the Line 6 DL4 and the new Electro Harmonix Superego. This all combines with a supercharged lap steel guitar, which uses a Seymour Duncan Invader high output pickup! Not conventional blues slide by any means but more creative and atmospheric.
On a slightly more functional note there's a Dunlop Volume pedal and Korg Pitchblack Tuner, incredibly reliable and bullet proof stage staples. They'd have to be in order to survive the rigorous touring schedule of a massive act like Queens Of The Stone Age.
In terms of backline there's everything from the classic to the contemporary and boutique.
Troy Van Leuween Guitar And Amp Rig
Troy's been using the Fractal Axe FX for a lot of his effects and relying on his trusty Vox AC30's for the amps, as he's not totally down with amp modelling at this point. Understandable if you've ever turned an AC30 all the way up. Regarding his guitars Troy has become quite an advocate for Echo Park custom models, in fact everyone in QOTSA owns at least one! Of course he's also on the record as being a Jazzmaster fan too.
We can also see an sE Electronics Voodoo Ribbon mic for capturing that full valve tone on stage.
Josh Homme Guitar Rig
Nothing too revelatory here, Josh has long been a fan of Ampeg VT40's, designed in the 70's and sadly now out of production. A big part of Josh's stripped back sound no doubt, along with his MotorAve guitars. There's a little more to see on bassist Michael Shuman's side of the stage.
In more synchronised red tolex there's a pretty classic bass rig. Both Precision and Jazz Fender basses are represented, along with two Fender Bassman amps. Nice and hefty, backed up with yet more Way Huge (Angry Troll, Supa Puss, Swollen Pickle), a couple of Korg Pitchblack Tuners (one for a Moog unit off stage) and another Dunlop Volume pedal.


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Show Your Colors: Our Favorite Red, White and Blue Interiors
Red, white, and blue.... for Independence Day, for every day. Red, white, and blue makes a dynamic combination — freshen it up in unexpected ways by adding a bit of green (image 5), black (1, 6, 7), or even salmon (image 3).
1. Red, white, blue, and a little eclectic. From Lonny.
2. Red white and blue accents in a bedroom from the home of Heidi Merrick, as seen in The Glitter Guide.
3. The Gramercy Park Hotel, as seen on Lonny.
4. Kristin Perers via Desire to Inspire.
5. Red, white, and blue... and green and grey and leopard. Nick Olsen's living room, via Mark D. Sikes.
6. Nautical bathroom makeover from A Cup of Jo.
7. A bold living room from Lonny.
8. Just a little bit of red and blue, as seen on California Home + Design.
9. A colorblocked bedroom from Joa's Quirky Cool Maisonette.
10. Red, white, and light blue is just perfect. Image from Design*Sponge.
(Images: as credited above)


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Financials: Mar. Bonds are currently 25 higher at 146'08 and Mar. 10 Yr. Notes 11 higher at 132'12. My bias remains to the short side of the market on rallies above the 146'20 level. An important level to watch will be the 200-day moving average for a lead month contract, which is currently at 147'29.
Grains: March Corn is currently o'6 higher at 724'6, March Beans 7'4 higher at 1425'4 and March Wheat 4'4 higher at 771'4. Since the release of last Friday's Crop Report we have had rallies across the board in the grains. What is a bit surprising to me is yesterday's sharp rally in beans after their failure to hold any gains in the aftermath of the report on Friday. At the moment I am looking at resistance in March Corn in the 740'0 area, March Beans the 1460'0 area and March Wheat the 795'0 area. Support for March Corn is current 707'0, March Beans 1380'0 area and March Wheat the 745'0. At the moment I do not have a strong opinion to either side of the market at current prices and will just look to be a buyer at support and a seller at resistance. Of note: I feel it is time to start watching new crop contracts (Dec. Corn and Wheat, Nov. Beans). The lack of moisture this winter could be setting us up for a bull market. Time to watch S. American crops. Stay tuned.
Cattle: Feb. LC is currently slightly higher at 130.40 and Mar. FC 20 lower at 151.22. For the near term I will be a seller in Feb. LC above the 132.70 level and a buyer below the 128.00 level.
Silver: March Silver is currently 5 cents higher at $31.16 and Feb. Gold is $7.00 higher at $1,677.00. We remain long silver. If you went long on last Friday's recommendation to go long gold in the $1,657.00 area either take profits or use a protective sell stop in the $1,667.00 area.
S&Ps: March S&Ps are currently 4.50 lower at 1459.50. We remain short with a protective buy stop in the 1480.00 area. If the market trades below the 1456.00 level, either take profits or lower your buy stop to the 1475.00 level. If the market trades below 1453.00, lower your buy stop to 1463.00. Near term support is currently the 1447.00 level. If this level does not hold the next level of support will be 1438.00.
Currencies: As of this writing the March Euro is currently 50 lower at 1.3335, the Swiss 93 lower at 1.0762, the Yen 74 higher at 1.1267 and the Pound 45 lower at 1.6038. If you went short the Euro above the 1.3360 level either take the short term profit or lower you protective buy stop to the 1.3430 level.


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MUMBAI, India (AP) — Wal-Mart's Indian joint venture said Friday it has suspended several employees as part of an internal corruption investigation, another blow to the U.S. company's plans for aggressive expansion in a giant market that is largely untapped by foreign retailers.
Bharti Walmart, Wal-Mart's joint venture with India's Bharti Enterprises, said it had suspended "a few associates" and was "committed to conducting a complete and thorough investigation." India's Economic Times newspaper reported that the company's chief financial officer was among the five employees suspended, a claim the company declined to verify.
The news comes at a sensitive time for foreign retailers in India, where corruption scandals in everything from telecommunications to coal mining have badly damaged the ruling Congress Party. Eager to rekindle foreign investment, the Congress Party eased foreign investment rules in September, paving the way for Wal-Mart and others — which had been limited to wholesaling — to run retail shops with a local partner.
When parliament reconvened this week, opposition politicians quickly shut down proceedings to protest the move, which has already cost the Congress Party a key coalition partner.
In a Nov. 15 filing to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Wal-Mart said it was investigating potential violations of the U.S. Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in Brazil, China and India, among other markets. Wal-Mart's Mexico subsidiary is already embroiled in a public scandal over alleged payments to middlemen to speed up the store-opening process, possibly through payments to local officials.
Wal-Mart told the SEC it had spent $99 million in the nine months to October on corruption investigations and related lawsuits and said that it is cooperating with ongoing Department of Justice and SEC investigations.
Indian authorities are also reportedly investigating Wal-Mart for possible violations of foreign investment rules, relating to a $100 million investment in a company owned by its wholesale joint-venture partner, Bharti Enterprises.
Bharti Walmart said Friday that it was in compliance with all Indian foreign investment laws.
"All procedures and processes have been duly followed and details filed with relevant Indian government authorities, including the Reserve Bank of India. The central government has sought certain information and clarification which has been provided by us," the company said in a statement.
Wal-Mart operates 18 wholesale shops in India through its joint venture, according to its website. Wal-Mart said in September that it planned to open retail stores in India over the next 18 months, but the corruption investigation may slow its aggressive expansion strategy.
Spokeswoman Arti Singh said Wal-Mart remains "committed to the Indian market."
"We remain excited about the opportunity to grow our business in one of the world's most vibrant economies, expand opportunities for farmers and help lower the cost of living for families in India," she said by email.


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If development money is the problem, it would seem to make sense for all the MF camera makers to come together with a sensor maker and put the cash into a pot and do what they should be doing: make that goddam 6x6 sensor and at an affordable price.
I've run these numbers and buying MFD doesn't make sense unless you genuinely need it. Much better to rent when you do need MFDB. Tying up $60k for a few years, even with the back end benefits on taxes, only makes sense if you make and sell large prints, or are constantly shooting campaigns where you need an MFDB. Portrait studios, interior, architecture, etc. Buying used is a different equation.
If I look at my own case, I went from 5DII, to 5DII + 7D, to 5DII + 1D4, and was buying lenses frequently. I ended up with perhaps $30K's worth of lenses at retail price. 3x cost of the bodies I ended up with.
This is an interesting point. What is more of a luxury... a large collection of lenses that reach take dramatically different images or a single body and a normal lens, but with a wee bit more final resolution?I think that there is more of a future in luxury lenses than there is in MF as a luxury camera.I think that Carl Zeiss's announcement of ultra high end 35mm DSLR lenses is an indication of this.Very smart more IMO. They did a similar move in motion picture and it is going very well.I think it is more likely that we will see more of the luxury dollars going to lenses than cameras especially when we see how sensors are leveling the capturequality for all but 40x60in prints.
There are a few things that indicate quite clearly that MF companies are not doing very well and are in a precarious situation
7) You are priming yourself for a career change from photographer to writer for Fox news and are practicing making up stories.
Ooohhhh "Precarious".... More of the "sky is falling" from Fred. Not a surprise! So Fred, tell us how much of this _ _ you are unloading on the forums have to do with ... 1) Your own sour grapes for not being able to afford your own MFDB system 2) Stink because Fuji didn't bring out a back for the 680III camera 3) you want attention and your agent told you any kind of publicity is good publicity 4) you bumped your head and are confused 5) you secretly work for Nikon? 6) It's one more chance to post that picture of what's his face flipping the bird. 7) You are priming yourself for a career change from photographer to writer for Fox news and are practicing making up stories. Since you don't shoot MF (digital) why on Earth could any of this matter to you? Why go through all the trouble? It is definitely ruining your cred.
There are many reasons why MFDB must be more expensive than a DSLR body, but I wonder does it really have to be this expensive?
but they are pretty happy about the unaffordability as well.
Nothing in the recent times show any indications that Hasselblad, Leaf and Phase are going to do anything different or try to expand the MF market
Two indications for you from recent months, both seem to be a success so far...http://www.mamiyaleaf.com/products_ixr.asphttp://industrial.phaseone.com/Industrial/Aerial-Camera-Systems/iXA/overview.aspxAnd in addition we do quite a bit of work with other camera and lens manufacturers on both R&D and marketing/ sales to ensure constant growth of the overall business, for everyone.As I keep saying, these forum and the 20-30 regular posters (and perhaps another 20-30 "friends") cannot be taken as a reliable representation of the current state of affairs.Still this is a good and healthy discussion as long as we keep it constructive rather than distractive...Yair


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It's Saturday night at Canton's Du Burns Arena, and Mike "The Prodigy" Bennett flexes and preens as his opponent, Ring of Honor champion Jay Lethal, staggers across the mat.
As the bad-boy wrestler's scantily clad girlfriend-valet joins the gloating, fans erupt in an angry chant of "You suck, you suck." Those in the front row yell the loudest — pounding the metal dividers surrounding the ring in time with the chant.
Welcome to the new — and, at the same time, very old — world of TV wrestling, as the Sinclair Broadcast Group embraces the original programming business that comes with chokeholds and body slams.
Last June, the Hunt Valley broadcaster...


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The Very Best and Very Worst of Air Travel Today
Posted December 11, 2008 by Nicki Krawczyk
It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. While I can't take credit for that opening line (props to you, Chuckie D!), I felt it was rather appropriate for today's post. We've come to a point in air travel history when there's never been so much potential for things to work out really, really, well. (I heard that scoff; bear with me for a moment.)Technology, security, weather predictions, pilot and flight attendant safety, and, well, in-flight entertainment options have never been better.
Indeed, things used to be not-so-hot in the air travel sector. Heck, it wasn't even until the early '70s that all passengers were screened for firearms before boarding. Better yet, hijackings of U.S. planes used to be so common that the Cuban Government sold $30 sandwiches to the passengers who had been diverted to Havana airport. (The State Department picked up the tab.) Nowadays, we've got a better handle on issues of this ilk. And, as if that weren't good enough, airlines have also figured out more ways to cater to our needs than just protecting us from sandwich-wielding Cubans. Briefly, I'll call to your attention the special swankiness of some airlines, new routes being added as needed, seat upgrades, and numerous other things. Hey, air travel isn't so bad!
Ooo, then there's the other side of the coin. On which things sometimes look an eensy, weensy, bit lousy. On-time arrivals and departures are at a low, frequent flyer charges are up, airline fees continue to climb, and, depending on who you talk to, it either sucks to deal with flight attendants or to be one. (I'm simplifying a long argument here; I've dealt with many fantastic flight attendants. Please don't remember my name and make me sit in the bulkhead.)
To paraphrase Mr. Dickens, there's a whole load of good and a whole load of bad. Personally, I sat on a plane on the tarmac at Boston's Logan Airport on and off (mostly on) for nine hours only to then have my flight canceled. Thumbs down. However, I've had Midwest ticketing agents hunt me down and finagle new flights for me without being asked just because they noticed that I'd have trouble making a connecting flight. Two very enthusiastic thumbs up.
So, my question for you is: What have been your best and worst experiences with air travel? Please leave your answer in the comment field below.
(Photo: linguistics.berkeley.edu)


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Featured News - Current News - Archived News - News Categories
by Rachel Jolbert
Join Lewiston's small businesses this weekend for more Christmas Walk activities and discounts.
On Saturday and Sunday, from noon to 3 p.m., Santa will be stationed behind the Little Yellow Artisan House on Center Street.
There will be a petting zoo Saturday in the Country Doctor yard. Angel to Apple will have extended hours and mystery Christmas tree discounts and raffles, while Artzee will have mystery candy cane discounts as well as children's crafts and refreshments. Savory Sips will hold a "crazy eights" promotion with "Santa's pick" of three wines for $8 each. Tour d'Elegance of Niagara and its owners, Sue Torcasio and David Moyer, will provide carriage rides free of charge in front of the Frontier House from noon until 3 p.m.
•Don't forget the holiday festivities going on this weekend in Youngstown with its "Christmas in the Village." The event will take place Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with several activities available at the Youngstown Red Brick School Village Center, 240 Lockport St., and the First Presbyterian Church at the corner of Main and Church streets.
Events include children's crafts, an artisan Christmas market, face painting, carriage rides, live music, a presentation by Old Fort Niagara and much more.


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Not everyone gets a chance to enjoy a private dinner with a man who is the former director of both the CIA and the National Security Agency.
But Catholic University law students got their shot at it, and they didn't have to break a code or follow a series of "dead drops" to an undisclosed location for the privilege.
A personal dinner with retired United States Air Force four-star general Michael Hayden, who was once the highest ranking military intelligence officer in the nation, was among a number of interesting and unusual items up for bid this year at the Columbus School of Law's 22nd annual fundraising auction to support Students for Public Interest Law (SPIL), held at the law school on Feb. 8.
The four-hour event raised $40,500, money that will be matched by a law school contribution for a total of more than $90,000. The funds will provide up to 26 summer stipends to CUA Law students who elect to take low-paying public service positions in 2013. The amount of money raised exceeds the previous year's total by $2,000.
A five day silent auction in the law school's atrium preceded the live bidding on Friday evening. There was an impressive array of donated items and services up for the highest bidder including: artwork, restaurant outings, meals served at home by professors, dinner with a National Public Radio correspondent, Caribbean vacations, and a sailboat ride with Dean Suzette Malveaux and Professor Sarah Duggin, among many other choices.
The live bidding was ably handled by energetic auctioneer Professor Mary Leary (at podium above) who is a hit with the SPIL auction's crowded mix of student and alumni guests year after year.
Second-year students Alexandra Jenik and Holly Vandegrift served as co-chairs of the 2013 SPIL auction.
"These two students did a tremendous job of organizing, planning, and soliciting donations," said David Schrock, the law school's director of financial aid and the staff advisor for the event. "Their hard work will permit the highest-ever number of their classmates to accept public service positions this summer to work on behalf of others."


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Your nozzle or sprayer has a female thread and does not fit the tap? No problem, that's what the GARDENA Accessory Adapter is for. It is simply screwed on and fits all parts in the Original GARDENA System. The Accessory Adapter has a 26.5 mm (G 3/4") thread. For every problem, there is a solution.


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Money talks: Wisconsin's recall election
Last night, Wisconsin voters took to the polls in record numbers to vote on the recall of Republican governor Scott Walker. Walker, with 53 percent of the vote, beat out Democratic challenger Tom Barrett, becoming the first governor in history to survive a recall vote.
The vote comes more than a year after Walker tried to strip public employees of collective bargaining rights. In our August 2011 issue, we explored the history of Catholic support for unions and how the protests that arose in Wisconsin divided Catholics in the state.
Without any limit to the amount of money that could be donated between the time the recall was announced up until the time of the election, Walker ended up outspending Barrett about seven to one, with about $30 million at his disposal, compared to Barrett's $4 million. (Or: Walker spent about $22 dollars per vote, while Barrett's totals came to about $3.50 spent per vote.) With that money, Walker was able to buy up ad space and spend money on mailings and phone calls. Walker's campaign denied responsibility for a series of robocalls telling people that if they signed the petition to recall Walker they did not need to cast a vote in the recall. However, even if the campaign wasn't directly involved, ardent supporters with plenty of resources at their disposal sure were.
Some will say that democracy has shown itself and that the people of Wisconsin have spoken about who they want as their governor. But, are you still really letting the people decide if the scales are tipped so far in one candidate's ability to spend on campaigning and advertising? A donation to a campaign signifies an agenda to see that candidate elected, which is true in any political party.
Walker said on Tuesday night, "Tonight we tell Wisconsin, we tell our country and we tell people all across the globe that voters really do want leaders who stand up and make the tough decisions."
However, that's not the message that I got from Walker. The message I heard was that if you have money, you can win elections.


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- Inside Athletics
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JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (Dec. 6, 2013) – Each week during the season, members of the ETSU volleyball team will be featured in a segment called "Getting to Know You." The 13th player to be featured is red-shirt sophomore middle blocker Eryn Samuels (Tampa, Fla.).
During the preseason, the players were given the questionnaire, which can be found below, and each of them submitted their answers. Below are the responses by Samuels:
Name: Eryn Samuels
Academic Major: Public Relations / Marketing
Favorite Song: "Hero" by Mariah Carey; "For You I Will" by Monica
Favorite Actor/Actress: Johnny Depp
Favorite Movie: "The Devil Wears Prada"
Favorite TV Show: "Big Bang Theory" "Family Guy" and "Real Housewives of Atlanta"
Favorite Animal: Giraffe
Favorite Ice Cream: Cookies-n-Cream
Favorite Sports Moment: Winning the 2012 A-Sun Conference Tournament
Favorite Quote: "The greatest risk in life is the one you don't take."
Favorite Athlete: Chris Paul
Favorite Subject in School: English / Writing
Favorite Vacation Spot: The Beach
What's the number one thing on your bucket list?
If you could be on any reality TV show what would it be and why?
What is one thing you can't live without?
If you were stranded on an island what are two things you would bring with you?
Is there any meaning behind your number you wear?
If you could be one person for a day, who would you be and why?
If you weren't playing volleyball, what sport would you play?
What are your plans after graduation?
What's one thing most people don't know about you?
What's your favorite thing to do in the off-season?
For more information on Buccaneer volleyball, visit ETSUBucs.com.


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NEW YORK (AP) — Academy Award-winner Holly Hunter is hoping to rip up the stage when she stars off-Broadway in a new play by Hamish Linklater.
The Flea Theatre said Friday the actress from such films as "Broadcast News" and "Raising Arizona" will be in "The Vandal" from Jan. 18-Feb. 17.
The play will also star Zach Grenier and Noah Robbins. Jim Simpson will direct. The Flea says the new work is a play "about death and vandalism in Kingston, N.Y."
Hunter, who also starred in the TV series "Saving Grace," was last off-Broadway in "Impossible Marriage" in 1998 and played the "Mystery Guest Star" in "The Play What I Wrote" on Broadway in 2003.


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Here's a simple acoustic track for your need for cute and uplifting music. The instrumentation includes banjo, ukulele, glockenspiel, drums and bass. I have envisioned this positive and carefree track on commercials, presentations and such.
Please, don't forget to rate your purchase! Thank You!
You can also find this track in my The Positive Pack, which is a package for positive, commercial friendly music.


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September revenues help state reach $27 million surplusBy GARRY RAYNO
State House Bureau
October 03. 2013 10:15AM
CONCORD – The state's revenues in September were $15.7 million above estimates for the month and produced a $27 million surplus for the first quarter of the 2014 fiscal year.
Business taxes rebounded from a dismal showing a month ago, producing 10 percent more money than anticipated, and the real estate transfer tax continues to show a rebounding housing market with greater-than-estimated returns.
For September, state revenues were $197.4 million, 8.6 percent higher than estimates of $181.7 million. For the year to date, revenues total $435.8 million, which is $26.9 million higher than budget writers estimated and $37 million more than a year ago.
Business taxes produced $96.2 million in September, $10.3 million more than estimates, and total $129.1 million for the year, which is $10.3 million above estimates and $11.9 million more than a year ago.
Last month, business taxes were almost 30 percent below estimates.
Rooms and meals taxes also were ahead of schedule for September, producing $30.2 million, which is $1.8 million more than anticipated.
The real estate transfer tax produced $1.9 million more money than budget writers planned, producing $9.8 million in September.
Other taxes ahead of estimates for September include the interest and dividends tax, transfers from the Lottery Commission and the tobacco tax, which increased 10 cents in August after revenues failed to reach projections the last two years.
The communications tax continues to lag behind estimates as it did last fiscal year.


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This hearty Chorizo, Beans and Rice recipe was a request from my Dad. I call it man-food. Rice and beans are a classic combo and the chorizo really makes this one special by taking on a starring role to infuse the entire dish with its spicy flavor.
Sliced chorizo sausage and ground beef are sauteed in a skillet with onion, green pepper and garlic and then pink beans are mixed in. Fifteen minutes later this spicy, smoky delicious mess of food will be gracing your table. Serve it over rice as is or with a sprinkle of cheddar cheese and a dollop of sour cream. Filling, nourishing and completely satisfying…the man in your life will love it!
Chorizo, Beans and Rice
(by Reeni)
1 cup Brown Rice, uncooked
1/2 cup Onion, diced
1/3 cup Green Bell Pepper, diced
Canola oil, for sauteing
1/2 teaspoon Oregano
2 cloves Garlic, minced
5-6 ounces Ground Beef*
12 ounces Fresh Chorizo Sausage, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds**
1 – 14 ounce can Pink Beans with juices (double the beans if you like a lot!)
1/3 cup Water
Optional toppings:
Shredded Cheese
Sour Cream
Green Onion
1. Cook rice according to package directions.
2. About 25 minutes before rice is done saute onion and pepper in a large skillet over medium low heat in a tablespoon of oil, push them to the center of the pan and cook the chorizo and ground beef around the edges. Crumble the ground beef as it cooks and turn the chorizo slices to sear on all sides. Season with oregano. Add garlic to the onion and pepper mixture near the end and saute until fragrant.
3. When the chorizo is seared on all side and beef is cooked through add the beans and water and mix well. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes or until chorizo is cooked through in the middle.
4. Serve over rice as is or with toppings.
*The beef can be omitted: use 16 ounces of Chorizo.
**Sausage is easier to slice when it's semi-frozen. Pop in freezer two hours beforehand.
Print Recipe
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Eighty-five percent of U.S. b-to-b marketers agree that being a marketer is more challenging than ever before, according to a study by b-to-b digital agency Omobono, Cambridge, in partnership with the Business Marketing Association.
The study, "What Works Where USA," was based on an online survey of more than 80 U.S. b-to-b marketers.
It found that the top challenges facing b-to-b marketers are changing priorities (cited by 80% of respondents), technical developments (75%), handling business objectives that are outside traditional marketing activities (74%), more audience types (73%) and a wider range of territories (69%).
The study also found that digital marketing accounts for an average 42% of total marketing budgets.
Within digital, average budget allocations were: website development (23%), email marketing (19%), social media (12%), online video (10%), SEO (8%), pay-per-click advertising (7%), display advertising (6%), microsites (5%), mobile optimization (2%), mobile apps (2%), affiliate marketing (1%) and other (5%).


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100 patents and counting10/21/2008
Dr. Joseph Kennedy, distinguished professor of polymer science and chemistry at The University of Akron, recently received his 100th U.S. patent.
World-renowned scientist, researcher and inventor Dr. Joseph Kennedy, distinguished professor of polymer science and chemistry at The University of Akron, recently received his 100th U.S. patent - no small accomplishment in the world of innovation. In fact, the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office says an achievement of this magnitude is extremely rare. Kenneth Preston, UA's associate vice president of research and director of technology transfer, notes that many of the world's finest inventors have no more than 10 patents to their names.
Kennedy's work has indirectly saved millions of lives. His invention of the polystyrene-polyisobutylene-polystyrene block copolymer and thermoplastic elastomer is the basis of a biocompatible polymer coating on Boston Scientific's TAXUS® drug-eluting cardiovascular stent, which has been implanted in about 5 million patients worldwide. While the stent does its work to open clogged coronary arteries, Kennedy's polymer coating time-releases drugs and replaces the bare metal stent of bygone days with one more compatible with human tissue.
Kennedy's 100th patent is U.S. Patent 7,388,065, "Process for Preparing Siloxane Compounds," which involves an improved method for producing high-performance silicone rubbers. Such polymers could be used in range of applications, including industrial, household and medical products.
At work six days a week
Kennedy's genius blossoms in his UA laboratory where at age 80, he spends six days a week combining his expertise as a biochemist and polymer scientist to embark upon his next innovation. A true pioneer in polymer science, Kennedy's discoveries and work with butyl polymerization from previous decades remain viable today and serve as a springboard to advance his work and that of other researchers, including his dozens of protégés over the years.
"Dr. Kennedy's research has certainly made an impact on society, not only through the significant work of the many polymer scientists he has mentored, but also through the meaningful advancements in biomaterials science for which he is directly responsible," says Dr. Stephen Cheng, dean of UA's College of Polymer Science and Polymer Engineering.
Some of the patents that Kennedy has earned over his decades at The University of Akron are framed in a collage that hangs outside of his office in the Goodyear Polymer Building.
Kennedy's research on isobutylene-based elastomers, for example, led to his patent-pending application of these elastomeric gels as spinal implants used to treat patients with herniated or slipped discs. Meanwhile, his most recent work involves research on smart amphiphilic polymer networks, which could serve as semi-permeable membranes for an artificial pancreas. This implantable device, aimed to cure Type I Diabetes, has undergone successful animal trials at the Cleveland Clinic.
An entrepreneurial mindset
"It is the rare inventor who has just one of his patents achieve commercial success. Dr. Kennedy, however, designs his research with an entrepreneurial mindset to solve real-world problems and meet important societal needs," says Dr. George R. Newkome, UA's vice president for research, dean of the Graduate School and professor of polymer science and chemistry. "His work is truly remarkable and will go a long way into the future, as a catalyst for discoveries still unknown, but on the cusp of development."
UA's polymer science and polymer engineering program is the nation's largest single center of polymer education, and is ranked ahead of such highly regarded universities as M.I.T. and Caltech. The college's faculty include winners of the highest national and international honors bestowed for achievement in the polymer field.


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Arsene Wenger has insisted that he is working towards bringing new players to Arsenal in the January transfer window.
Goal.com revealed last week that the Gunners had madea formal approach for David Villa, while they are continuing to pursue a deal for Adrian Lopez.
The Frenchman admitted he was under pressure to bring bodies to the club this month, but is only interested signing the very best players available.
"We are still working in the transfer market but we only want exceptional players," he told reporters. "In England you are always under pressure to buy.
"We have no problem with people wanting to join us. There's different ways to be successful in football. Money helps but is not the only way."
Wenger has allowed two of his players to leave the club on loan, with Swiss defender Djourou leaving for Hannover in Germany, and striker Chamakh joining West Ham until the end of the season.
The 63-year-old thinks both players will benefit from their temporary switches, but will not sanction any more departures until he has brought replacements to the club.
"At the moment no, [no one is leaving]," Wenger added.
"We have a good squad, a balanced one. At the moment nobody can go out, unless we buy somebody. At the moment our focus is to keep everybody. In every position we have two players. Three is too many and one is not enough."
"They don't play here and they need games. A player who never plays loses his quality and his confidence. It's important that they get a chance to play somewhere."


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Court papers made public recently offer more details in the case of an an Illinois man pleaded guilty to illegally obtaining deer semen from a Texas buck named "Diablo."
According to the Houston Chronicle, Raymond Favero, 55, specifically pleaded guilty to the charge of acquisition of wild life in interstate commerce in violation of state law before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith K. Guthrie.
Court papers state that in February 2007, Favero acquired 184 straws of whitetail deer semen valued at about $92,000 from a buck named "Diablo'" that he knew had been illegally taken out of Texas, and again in January 2008 took another 110 straws of semen from a buck named "Thunderstruck.
The case is tied in with another major investigation in Texas into deer breeding, interstate transport and other violations.
For the complete story, click here.


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CINCINNATI, OH (FOX19) - The 35th edition of the Taste of Cincinnati kicked off Saturday.
Local restaurants ladle up the food, fun and festivities over Memorial Day weekend: Saturday and Sunday, May 25 and 26, from noon to midnight, and Monday, May 27, from noon to 9 p.m.
Admission to Taste of Cincinnati, the nation's longest running culinary arts festival, is free and open to the public.
2013 Best of Taste Awards Recognize City's Top Cuisine
Nine local restaurants earned top prizes for this year's Best of Taste Awards in four categories: Appetizer, Crab Rangoon by Thai Taste; Entrée, Honey Sweet & Sour Shrimp by Arloi Dee; Dessert, Vanilla Bourbon Breda Pudding by Blue Wisp and Go Vibrant, Thai Fried Rice by Thai Taste.
Judges included some 200 area celebrities, chefs, professionals and foodies, and each served as "mystery diner" taste testing various dishes throughout the city for two weeks. Post-dining point evaluations for every dish sampled were submitted and tallied.
2013 Best of Taste Awards
1st Place: Crab Rangoon, Thai Taste
2nd Place: Cuban Black Bean Soup, Silver Ladle
3rd Place: Risotto Balls, Pompilios
1st Place: Honey Sweet & Sour Shrimp, Arloi Dee
2nd Place: Chicken Chili 3-Way, Silver Ladle
3rd Place (tie): Pulled Pork Sandwich, Giminetti's Bakery & General Tso's Chicken, Thai Taste
1st Place: Vanilla Bourbon Bread Pudding, Blue Wisp
2nd Place: Sweet Potato Bread Pudding with Sweet Potato Ice Cream, Mahogany's
3rd Place: Crème Brulee, Market Street Grille
Go Vibrant (healthy dining options)
1st Place: Thai Fried Rice, Thai Taste
2nd Place: Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Arloi Dee
3rd Place: Greek Yogurt Spread "Labneh," Andy's Mediterranean Grill
Live Entertainment at Taste of Cincinnati
Some 70 live music performances representing music of all genres is scheduled on four stages (Food Truck Alley Stage, Kentucky Ale Beer Garden Stage, Christian Moerlein Beer Garden Stage and the Yuengling Beer Garden Stage) along Fifth Street from Fountain Square to the P&G Gardens. Also, on Saturday and Sunday evenings from 9:30 to 11 p.m., local comedians will perform at the Taste of Comedy Show curated by comedian Josh Sneed.
The full schedule of entertainment is available here: http://www.tasteofcincinnati.com/tasteentertainment.aspx?menu_id=268&id=8784
NEW: Veggie Races presented by Go Vibrant, Friday, May 24, 12-1 p.m.
Local media celebrities representing TV, radio, print and blogs will compete in the first-ever Veggie Races presented by Go Vibrant on Friday, May 24 from noon to 1 p.m. on Fountain Square. Similar to Soap Box Derby races, contestants will be provided vegetables from Meijer to build and race a veggie-fueled vehicle in a round-robin style tournament.
NEW: Taste of Cincinnati Experience
Ten of Cincinnati's signature restaurants will participate in the newly created Taste of Cincinnati Experience, located in the P&G Gardens at Fifth and Sycamore streets, to offer an intimate dining experience with seating and live music. Participating restaurants include: 20 Brix, Ruth's Chris Steak House, Daveed's, Orchid's, The Palace and Tano's in addition to Graeter's. Chefs from the participating restaurants will be on-site at the Taste of Cincinnati Experience for three-hour increments each day (schedule will be released closer to the event). Representatives from Les Chefs de Cuisine will also be in the area throughout the weekend with samplings, and cooking demonstrations.
NEW: Tastings, Tappings and Tours by Christian Moerlein, official beer of Taste of Cincinnati
Christian Moerlein agreed to serve as the Official Beer sponsor of Taste of Cincinnati and will create the Moerlein Beer Garden on Fountain Square during the event. The following specialty craft beers will be served: the Moerlein Original Golden Helles, Moerlein Over-the-Rhine Ale, Moerlein Exposition Vienna Lager, Moerlein Northern Liberties IPA and the soon-to-be-released Moerlein Seven Hefeweizen. Every two hours of Taste of Cincinnati, the brewers of Moerlein will tap specialty kegs "Pins and Firkins" of dry hopped cask-conditioned ales to offer samples and discuss beer and brewing methods.
Additionally, visitors to Taste of Cincinnati will be offered free one-hour tours of the Christian Moerlein Production Craft Brewery, located in Over-the-Rhine at 1621 Moore Street. Buses will run continuously to and from Fountain Square during Taste of Cincinnati USA. Guests can register, free of charge, at the Christian Moerlein Beer Garden on Fountain Square.
NEW: Food Truck Alley on North Broadway at Taste of Cincinnati
Local food trucks will take over North Broadway off of Fifth Street, downtown to serve as variety of cuisine in a new area called Food Truck Alley, which will also feature live music and seating. Participating food trucks include: Café de Wheels, C'est Cheese, EAT Mobile Dining, Gold Star Chili, Mellow Mushroom and Sugarsnap!.
For more information about the Taste of Cincinnati, visit www.TasteofCincinnati.com, the mobile site at m.TasteofCincinnati.com, Facebook and Twitter following @CincinnatiParty or the #cincytaste hashtag.
Copyright 2013 WXIX. All rights reserved.


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News >> Browse Articles >> Officer Down News
Update: PA Conservation Officer Slain During Traffic Stop
Christopher Lynn Johnson is a person of interest in the shooting, police said.
Associated Press
November 12, 2010
Official Press Release from the Pennsylvania Game Commission:
HARRISBURG, Pa., Nov. 12, 2010 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — Pennsylvania Game Commission Wildlife Conservation Officer (WCO) David L. Grove was shot and killed in the line of duty while on patrol around 10:30 p.m., on Nov. 11, along Shrivers Road in Freedom Township, Adams County. Grove, age 31, of Fairfield, Adams County, was investigating reports of ongoing night-time shooting and possible poaching activity in the area.
The Pennsylvania State Police is leading the investigation into the killing of WCO Grove.
Prior to this incident, the last Game Commission Officer to have been shot and killed in the line of duty was Game Protector Joseph McHugh in Weatherly, Carbon County, on Nov. 7, 1915.
"We are shocked and saddened by the killing of WCO Grove," said Carl G. Roe, Game Commission executive director. "He was a bright, young officer who was dedicated to conserving Pennsylvania's wildlife resources, and promoting our state's rich hunting and trapping heritage.
"Our prayers and thoughts go out to WCO Grove's family and friends, as we mourn the loss of one of our own."
A graduate of the 27th Class of the Game Commission's Ross Leffler School of Conservation, Grove was commissioned a full-time Wildlife Conservation Officer on March 8, 2008, and assigned to the southern district of Adams County.
Before being appointed a WCO Cadet, Grove had served as a Deputy WCO in Franklin County, from 2001 until 2007. Grove also worked at the Penn State University Deer Research Facility in University Park, Centre County, from 2003 until 2004.
Grove graduated, in 1997, from Grace Academy in Hagerstown, Maryland, and he attended Appalachian Bible College, in Bradley, West Virginia, from 1997 until 1999. In 2004, Grove earned a bachelor's degree in wildlife and fisheries science from Penn State University.
WCOs are responsible for administering a wide variety of Game Commission programs within an assigned district of about 350 square miles. Primary duties include law enforcement, responding to wildlife conflicts, conservation education, and administration of the Hunter-Trapper Education program. Officers also are responsible for supervising and training part-time Deputy Wildlife Conservation Officers.
After being accepted to the agency's Ross Leffler School of Conservation, WCO Cadets are required to complete an intensive 50-week training program. Major subject areas of instruction include: wildlife management; law enforcement; principles and methods; wildlife laws and regulations; land management practices; public relations and conservation education; firearms training and unarmed self-defense; and agency administrative procedures. In addition to classroom studies, the training program includes temporary field assignments with experienced officers. Field training provides cadets with practical experience in law enforcement and other duties performed by Wildlife Conservation Officers.
Upon successfully completing the training program, WCO cadets are promoted to the position of Wildlife Conservation Officer and are assigned to fill vacancies throughout the Commonwealth. WCOs work under the supervision of a Region Director and supervisory staff, and generally work 40 hours per week and are eligible for overtime under certain conditions. Hours of work vary and often include nights, weekends and holidays.
In 1930, Ross Leffler, the then-president of the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners, proposed the establishment of a training school for "Game Protectors," as they were called at that time. When the training school opened its doors in Brockway, Jefferson County, in 1932, it was the first such conservation officer training school in the world and served as a model for other states.
From 1932 until 1935, the Ross Leffler School of Conservation offered in-service training for Game Protectors. The Game Commission made the school a permanent facility and enrolled its first class of Cadets in 1936. The agency continued training new classes at this facility until 1986. In 1987, the training school was moved to the Harrisburg headquarters, which had just opened the doors to its current facility in Susquehanna Township, Dauphin County.
NOTE: A photograph of WCO Grove to accompany this news release is available from the Game Commission's website (www.pgc.state.pa.us) by clicking on "News Releases" in the "Quick Clicks" box in the right-hand column of the homepage and then selecting "Release #121-10."
Note to Editors: If you would like to receive Game Commission news releases via e-mail, please send a note with your name, address, telephone number and the name of the organization you represent to: firstname.lastname@example.com
SOURCE Pennsylvania Game Commission
FAIRFIELD, Pa. — A wildlife conservation officer has been shot and killed in the line of duty in central Pennsylvania.
Pennsylvania Game Commission spokesman Jerry Feaser says the officer was fatally shot Thursday night in Freedom Township, near Gettysburg. Feaser would not release the identity of the officer.
A neighbor told the Gettysburg Times she thought she heard gunshots before police arrived. Soon, dozens of police cars from across Adams County were on the scene.
Police were searching for a blue pickup following the shooting.
Feaser says a game commission officer hasn't been slain in the line of duty since 1915. He would not immediately discuss the events leading up to the shooting.
Suspect vehicle: 1999 blue Chevy pick-up with the Pennsylvania plates, YWC-7472.


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First there were Chia Pets; now there are chia people.
Ubiquitous in television ads that made their debut 30 years ago, Chia Pets were called "the pottery that grows." Mixing chia seeds and water on the outside of an animal-shaped terra-cotta figurine produces a plant resembling green hair almost overnight.
Now, chia is having a second life as the latest nutritional "it" item. Whole and ground chia seeds are being added to fruit drinks, snack foods and cereals and sold on their own to be baked into cookies and sprinkled on yogurt.
Grown primarily in Mexico and Bolivia, chia is rich in the same omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, along with antioxidants, protein and fiber. Recognition of its nutritional value can be traced as far back as the Aztecs.
Companies such as Dole and Nature's Path have introduced chia products, which have begun showing up on shelves in grocery stores such as Ralphs, Vons, Albertsons and Trader Joe's. Mintel, a market research firm, counted 100 products containing chia in a presentation it did in March on the potential of increasing the use of the seeds in dairy products.
"About two years ago, our retailers came to us and said, 'We need you to be in this business everyone is talking about, the business of chia seeds,' " said Michael Hirsch, vice president of Joseph Enterprises, which sells Chia Pets and other novelty products and has now added chia seeds and milled chia called — what else? — Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia Omega.
Last spring, strong demand for the seeds collided with weather patterns that depressed production, raising prices and the awareness that chia had moved beyond the realm of health food stores and into the broader market.
Janie Hoffman, founder of Mamma Chia fruit juices, was one of the first people to recognize the potential of chia as a food. She was complaining about flaxseed — "I hate how you have to grind it and then it goes rancid" — to a friend, who asked why she wasn't using chia instead. "She said it had no taste, it's high in antioxidants, huge in omega-3, a far superior seed," Hoffman recalled. "In short, she made me feel like an idiot — no one was using flaxseed anymore."
So she bought some chia seeds online and, almost overnight, was sold on their benefits. "I started incorporating it into everything I was eating," she said. "Stir fries, yogurt, beverages — there really wasn't anything in my kitchen that didn't have chia in it."
In summer 2009, Hoffman developed fruit juices with chia seeds suspended in them. (Exposure to liquid gives the seeds a sticky, gelatinous coating, which is how they bond to the terra-cotta pets.)
"My first sales call a year and a half later was to Whole Foods in the southern Pacific region," she said. "I walked in to meet the buyer and presented this chia beverage and said I would like it to go into a few stores. She said, 'No, I want you in all of them' " — about 40 stores — "and that was that."
Within 11 months, Mamma Chia products were in Whole Foods stores across the nation, as well as in hundreds of health and natural foods stores.
"I personally think demand for it will grow for sure, though how big it will get is still a question," said Brad Bartlett, president of Dole Food Co.'s packaged foods business.
Dole chose chia as the first ingredient it would promote in its new Nutrition Plus line of products, which aim to provide a functional benefit to consumers. It won out over many other candidates, Bartlett said, because of its long history as a source of nutrition — the Aztecs used it for a variety of purposes — and because it does not require much processing to confer its benefits.
Hirsch, the Joseph Enterprises vice president, was less certain that chia would be a blockbuster, even though his company is adding protein bars to its line of edible chia products, which are sold in Walgreens, CVS, Rite Aid and other drugstores.
He said he was concerned about the supply of chia seeds, which are harvested once a year and grown in rotation, usually with corn. Australia has recently joined Mexico and Bolivia in the chia production act with its own kind of seed that is grown somewhat differently, Hirsch said.
But it is a difficult crop to grow outside of the traditional areas, and so the market is tiny, roughly $70 million.


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Reading the forum on your cell phone? There's an easier way. We've enabled a Tapatalk app that makes browsing the forum a whole lot easier. Check it out in the iPhone or Android store if you don't own it already.
I can lead trad up to around 5.5/5.6 and sport around 5.11a.
Anybody know anything more about this accident that happened a few days after I left?http://bangordailynews.com/2012/08/30/news/hancock/climbing-instructor-in-fair-condition-after-falling-60-feet-in-acadia/
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New Line Cinema has revealed the new trailer for Peter Jackson's The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey, opening in 3D, 2D and IMAX theaters on December 14. You can watch the trailer using the player below!
The official site also offers four additional endings to the new trailer. Fans can choose their favorite to create their own version of the trailer and share it with friends.
The film follows title character Bilbo Baggins, who is swept into an epic quest to reclaim the lost Dwarf Kingdom of Erebor, which was long ago conquered by the dragon Smaug. Approached out of the blue by the wizard Gandalf the Grey, Bilbo finds himself joining a company of thirteen dwarves led by the legendary warrior Thorin Oakenshield. Their journey will take them into the Wild; through treacherous lands swarming with Goblins and Orcs, deadly Wargs and Giant Spiders, Shapeshifters and Sorcerers. Although their goal lies to the East and the wastelands of the Lonely Mountain, first they must escape the goblin tunnels, where Bilbo meets the creature that will change his life forever… Gollum. Here, alone with Gollum, on the shores of an underground lake, the unassuming Bilbo Baggins not only discovers depths of guile and courage that surprise even him, he also gains possession of Gollum's "precious" ring that holds unexpected and useful qualities… A simple, gold ring that is tied to the fate of all Middle-earth in ways Bilbo cannot begin to know.


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By a decisive 86-13 vote, the U.S. Senate today rejected John Kerry's proposal for a complete withdrawal from Iraq by July 1 of next year–a completely arbitrary date that replaced the equally arbitrary date in Kerry's last proposal, December 31, 2006.
More Democrats supported the leadership's odd alternative, which called for troop withdrawals to begin but specified no end date. Since the administration is already reducing troop levels and will continue to do so, it isn't clear how, exactly, this measure would represent a change in policy. The Senate rejected it in a 60-39 vote. Lincoln Chafee voted with the Democrats, and six Democrats–Mary Landrieu, Mark Pryor, Joe Lieberman, Bill Nelson, Ben Nelson and Mark Dayton–voted with the Republicans.
As this AP report suggests, the Democrats' maneuvering is all about politics:
Sensitive to talk of a divided party, Democratic aides circulated a memo from a Democratic pollster suggesting that Republicans will pay a price in November for standing with the president's war policies.
And Ryan Sager at Real Clear Politics notes that John Kerry gave away his and the Democrats' real perspective on the Iraq issue:
Trying to battle the naysayers, Sen. John Kerry told CNN's Anderson Cooper last night that Democrats are "unified on the most essential ingredient, which is the failure of this administration, their lack of honesty with the American people about what is really happening in Iraq. We're unified about the fact that you need to begin redeployment of American forces now. I think there is a unity in moving in a new direction."
Yes, being unified on the general concept of thinking the Bush administration has screwed up is the "most essential" issue facing America today. Very inspiring. It's a wonder how he lost in '04.
Meanwhile, the New York Times worries that those evil Republicans are going to dodge the bullet once again: "GOP Decides to Embrace War as Issue":
Just a few weeks ago, some Republicans were openly fretting about the war in Iraq and its effect on their re-election prospects, with particularly vulnerable lawmakers worried that its growing unpopularity was becoming a drag on their campaigns.
But there was little sign of such nervousness on Wednesday as Republican after Republican took to the Senate floor to offer an unambiguous embrace of the Iraq war and to portray Democrats as advocates of an overly hasty withdrawal that would have grave consequences for the security of the United States.
The Republicans' advantage is that when they talk about Iraq, they are saying what they really believe: that the terrorists are evil and must be defeated. The terrorists have chosen to make Iraq the key front in their war against Western civilization, and to surrender in that conflict would be disastrous. What the Democrats actually believe is anyone's guess.
One more thing: we rarely agree with Mark Dayton about much of anything. But since he announced his retirement from the Senate in January, he has voted his conscience on a number of issues, today's vote among them. So I salute him for being willing to part company with most of his fellow Democrats on the most vital, life-and-death issue of the day.
Today's roll call on the Levin resolution is here; the roll call on the Kerry resolution is here.


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WASHINGTON (AP) - A senator guiding an immigration overhaul bill through Congress says he wants the Senate to pass the measure by July 4 and predicts as many as 70 votes in support.
Democratic Sen. Chuck Schumer said Sunday that the bipartisan coalition of lawmakers working on the bill is moving forward over House Republicans' objections. The New York senator adds that the eight lawmakers who developed the legislation would consider amendments to their proposal.
Schumer says that if Republicans oppose an overhaul of immigration laws, they will see their party relegated to minority status for a generation. He predicts voters will punish lawmakers who stand in the way of an overhaul and says House Speaker John Boehner is in a tough spot with conservatives.
Schumer spoke to NBC's "Meet the Press."
Copyright 2013 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.


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Zac Efron: Misibis Bay Vacation Photos Revealed!
Zac Efron stands up on his ATV while spending time at the Misibis Bay resort in the Philippines in these newly released photos from September.
The 25-year-old actor was in town to attend the Penshoppe Fan Con at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila. Zac shared these photos with his fans during his appearance at the conference.
"Hey guys! Z here. Rode up the lava flow of Manyon Volcano today. Wishing you the best from the Philippines," Zac tweeted during the vacation.
10+ pictures inside of Zac Efron at the Misibis Bay Resort…