President Obama's new plan to avoid the January fiscal cliff, is to wait until August, to do anything about it.
Unable to convince Republicans, or even all other Democrats, of the wisdom of his proposed plans, he is walking away from the negotiating table.
According to a White House statement, waiting until August 1, will allow the government to bring enough revenue that will somehow save Americans $1.2 trillion dollars, over the next year.
Part of Obama's plan includes reworking the tax code, in 2013, which the White House says will save $600 billion.
The White House does admit that waiting til August will cost an extra $80 billion.
However, if the fiscal cliff isn't avoided, on January 1, Americans will be paying more than an extra $1.6 trillion in taxes.
Obama and the White House had no response to Republicans asking about the difference in numbers, other than repeating the plan.
Mathematicians have looked at the plan and can not find where it actually saves money.
Friday, November 30, 2012
Five Now Dead From Coronavirus
Five people have now died from the new coronavirus.
Til now it had been only found in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, but the new cases were in Jordan.
So far nine cases of the disease have been recorded.
Health officials also say that this could confirm the virus can be spread between humans.
They also believe that the number of cases will go up, as they think that a series of severe pneumonia cases, in April, in Jordan, may actually have been the new virus.
Til now it had been only found in Qatar and Saudi Arabia, but the new cases were in Jordan.
So far nine cases of the disease have been recorded.
Health officials also say that this could confirm the virus can be spread between humans.
They also believe that the number of cases will go up, as they think that a series of severe pneumonia cases, in April, in Jordan, may actually have been the new virus.
Egypt's Assembly Passes Constitution But Protests Continue
Egypt's assembly approved a new constitution, on Friday.
President Morsi says that all the people need to do is vote to accept it.
Morsi himself just needs sign it and then to hold a referendum within fifteen days.
However, it has not been enough to appease the more than one hundred thousand people protesting Morsi's government, in Tahrir Square and elsewhere across the country.
Protesters are saying the new constitution won't be passed as they don't trust the assembly, due to the overwhelming majority that the Muslim Brotherhood has.
The protests began when Morsi seized powers, last Thursday, to a degree which led him to be called dictator and a new pharaoh.
Judges and lawyers went on strike, after Morsi decreed that not even the highest court could over rule his decrees or remove the assembly from power.
He promised to back down, after supposedly making a deal with judges, but never did so.
President Morsi says that all the people need to do is vote to accept it.
Morsi himself just needs sign it and then to hold a referendum within fifteen days.
However, it has not been enough to appease the more than one hundred thousand people protesting Morsi's government, in Tahrir Square and elsewhere across the country.
Protesters are saying the new constitution won't be passed as they don't trust the assembly, due to the overwhelming majority that the Muslim Brotherhood has.
The protests began when Morsi seized powers, last Thursday, to a degree which led him to be called dictator and a new pharaoh.
Judges and lawyers went on strike, after Morsi decreed that not even the highest court could over rule his decrees or remove the assembly from power.
He promised to back down, after supposedly making a deal with judges, but never did so.
One Wounded, One Arrested After Denver Gang Fight
Denver Police arrested a man, Thursday night, on charges of shooting another man, earlier in the evening.
According to police rival gangs were fighting when one of their members pulled a gun.
He then shot one of the rivals twice, before everyone fled the scene.
The man who'd been shot walked to a friend's house, wounded in the hip and face, and called for an ambulance.
After interviewing him, police then went looking for the suspect and arrested him when they found him.
According to police rival gangs were fighting when one of their members pulled a gun.
He then shot one of the rivals twice, before everyone fled the scene.
The man who'd been shot walked to a friend's house, wounded in the hip and face, and called for an ambulance.
After interviewing him, police then went looking for the suspect and arrested him when they found him.
Three Dead After Apparent Murder Suicide at Wyoming College
Three people are dead in Casper, Wyoming, after what police are describing as a murder suicide.
An attack with a "sharp edged weapon" occurred just before nine am, MST, on the campus of Casper College.
Two people were killed inside of the college's science building, a male and a female.
For awhile the campus was locked down as police searched for the killer.
A short time later police received another call, though, for a "traumatic injury" two miles southwest of the campus.
There police found another body, a male, who they believe to have been the killer from the campus.
Police said that the killer was not a student or a member of the faculty or staff, but that there was some sort of relationship between him and the two he killed.
At this point police are not releasing any further information.
An attack with a "sharp edged weapon" occurred just before nine am, MST, on the campus of Casper College.
Two people were killed inside of the college's science building, a male and a female.
For awhile the campus was locked down as police searched for the killer.
A short time later police received another call, though, for a "traumatic injury" two miles southwest of the campus.
There police found another body, a male, who they believe to have been the killer from the campus.
Police said that the killer was not a student or a member of the faculty or staff, but that there was some sort of relationship between him and the two he killed.
At this point police are not releasing any further information.
RAND Report Reveals Obama Administration’s Intricate Collaboration With The Muslim Brotherhood
The Obama administration has been diligent in employing a strategy
of engagement with the Muslim Brotherhood. But, it is the Muslim
Brotherhood’s agenda that is the focus of this joint effort, instead of
the interests of the United States. This is according to a report done
by the RAND Corporation’s National Defense Research Institute, which is a
federally funded research and analysis center and is overseen by a
Department of Defense advisory board in support of official
administration policies and goals.And, instead of concentrating on how the Muslim Brotherhood conducts itself, the main objective is on changing how the US perceives the Muslim Brotherhood. Moreover, the authors of the report also suggest that this strategy be carried out quietly.
An excerpt from the RAND report:
“Regularize and routinize engagement,
including among members of Congress and FJP parliamentarians, to reduce
politicization of engagement efforts. Engagement will be most effective
when it has bipartisan support in the United States and embeds contact
with the MB as part of broader engagement with Egypt’s profusion of
political parties.
The more regular and normalized that
contact becomes, the less engagement is vulnerable to becoming a target
of political attacks in the United States and the more it will be viewed
as the normal course of diplomacy. As Nathan Brown argues, now that the
MB operates a legal political party and has become a dominant player in
Egyptian politics, ‘having normal diplomatic contact with the [MB]
makes sense. But trumpeting the policy . . . is a mistake—it generates
exaggerated expectations and fears all around.’”
Engagement can also be insulated from
domestic political attacks by having more members of Congress, rather
than just administration officials, directly meet MB members. The Obama
administration has already reached out to the Hill to educate members on
the MB, address concerns, and plan more parliamentary exchanges. 51
Exchanges between American congressional and Egyptian parliamentary
staff could also prove fruitful. In addition, Congress can host FJP
parliamentarians and staff to observe American political processes, such
as nominating conventions.”
“Using deception to mask intended goals” is another stated tenet. Islam allows for the deception of non-Muslims, according to the Manual of Islamic Law (r8.2), headed “Permissible Lying.” Hence, Islam has been billed as the religion of peace.
Along with the previously stated goals, the following actions were outlined in the documents:
- The concerted demonization of Israel
- Support of ‘Palestinians’ claims of victimhood and discrimination
- High-profile, pro-Islamic activities on college campuses
Other tactics include the the revisionist history found in some school textbooks, in regard to Islam’s conquests and subjugation through the centuries. This has has been done at both universities and government offices, officials and agents who influence policy, legal cases, immigration and more.
It is important to note that the Muslim Brotherhood is the parent organization of Al Qaeda and Hamas. The organization was founded in 1928, in Egypt, specifically for the purpose of reinstating the Islamic Caliphate (Empire) which was abolished by Kemal Atatürk. The intended reach of the caliphate is global and would impose Sharia law on all. “The Koran is our law, Jihad is our way” is the motto, in part. Because Sharia law is “incompatible with the fundamental principles of democracy,” it is reasonable to expect that in order for Sharia to exist in the West, Western democracy must be abolished. This concept is being actively promoted in Europe and in other parts of the West. An example of this is Anjem Choudary saying:
“Our campaign… will be — Rotten Britain,
and destroying the foundations of Western civilization. So… be part of
the project of forbidding man-made law… and calling for the Sharia.”
- Suppression of the constitutional rights of Christians
- Christians attacked, and some killed
- Churches and shops set on fire
- Young women and girls abducted, forcibly converted, and ‘married’ to their Muslim captors
- Slow police response, if they show at all
- Sharia now trumps the Constitution.
- Mobile rural ‘health’ buses for performing schoolgirl genital mutilation are in existence
- Morsi has shut down opposition in the media
- Mubarak sympathizers removed from the administration
- Morsi edicts declared mandatory and unappealable
- Hard-line Islamic group, al-Gamaa al-Islamiya, has threatened that anyone who acts against Morsi’s declaration is marked for death
“Islam will invade Europe and America… the Jihad will lead to smashing Western civilization and replacing it with Islam…”
The Muslim Brotherhood has branches in 70 countries and territories, including its main contingents in Egypt, Syria, Gaza, Libya, Tunisia, and Jordan. It also maintains active branches in the UK, France, and in several other European countries as well as in the US.
According to founder al-Banna, “It is the nature of Islam to dominate, not to be dominated, to impose its law on all nations and to extend its power to the entire planet.” The organization’s full motto is: “Allah is our objective. The Prophet is our leader. Qur’an is our law. Jihad is our way. Dying in the way of Allah is our highest hope.” Additionally, it is also the intent of the Muslim Brotherhood to “liberate Jerusalem.”
Along with rolling out the red carpet for the Muslim Brotherhood in the US, the United States also continues to send hefty annual grants to Egypt. Indeed, being trillions of dollars in debt has not deterred the Obama administration from giving generously to Muslim Brotherhood controlled Egypt.
The RAND report can be viewed here
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Colorado Springs Man Arrested After Ramming Police Car
A Colorado Springs man was arrested Thursday after he rammed a police car.
The man and his passenger had stolen the car, and when police blocked their escape route, he rammed the officer's car.
The officer was taken to the hospital with minor injuries from the crash.
Police are charging the man with assault, careless driving, eluding police, resisting arrest, and theft.
His passenger was also arrested with a charge of theft.
The man and his passenger had stolen the car, and when police blocked their escape route, he rammed the officer's car.
The officer was taken to the hospital with minor injuries from the crash.
Police are charging the man with assault, careless driving, eluding police, resisting arrest, and theft.
His passenger was also arrested with a charge of theft.
Hostess Given Permission to Shut Down
It's now official, Hostess will close.
US Bankruptcy Judge Robert Drain approved their request to shut down, on Thursday.
The company will now begin selling off it's pieces.
According to the company, they have one hundred and ten parties interested in purchasing parts or the whole.
Consumers worried about never having Hostess products, ever again, shouldn't stress too much.
The new owners will likely continue the popular products.
US Bankruptcy Judge Robert Drain approved their request to shut down, on Thursday.
The company will now begin selling off it's pieces.
According to the company, they have one hundred and ten parties interested in purchasing parts or the whole.
Consumers worried about never having Hostess products, ever again, shouldn't stress too much.
The new owners will likely continue the popular products.
Remembering: The UN Partition of Palestine in 1947
After decades of fighting between Arabs and Jews, Britain was tired of dealing with it. They had tried many various ways to appease both sides.
Then World War II happened, and they were distracted for a time. When it had ended the issue was still there though, but the world dynamic had changed.
Now the US and several European nations fully supported giving the Jews a country of their own. Unable to get the two sides to reach an accord, the British turned the matter over to the United Nations.
On November 29, 1947 the UN voted to split Palestine in two. The Arabs would be given some areas and the Jews others. Their solution would last half a year.
Israel was declared an independent nation on May 14, 1948. The next day Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq invaded the new country. Despite being outnumbered and under equipped, Israel not only held their own, but gained territory.
Then World War II happened, and they were distracted for a time. When it had ended the issue was still there though, but the world dynamic had changed.
Now the US and several European nations fully supported giving the Jews a country of their own. Unable to get the two sides to reach an accord, the British turned the matter over to the United Nations.
On November 29, 1947 the UN voted to split Palestine in two. The Arabs would be given some areas and the Jews others. Their solution would last half a year.
Israel was declared an independent nation on May 14, 1948. The next day Egypt, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, and Iraq invaded the new country. Despite being outnumbered and under equipped, Israel not only held their own, but gained territory.
UN Recognizes Palestine as a State
With a vote of one hundred and thirty-eight for, nine against, and forty-one abstentions the United Nations has recognized Palestine as a state.
The nine who voted no were Israel, the US, Canada, Czech Republic, Panama, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, and Palau.
It passed despite the fact that many of the PLO's leaders are members of groups recognized as terrorist groups.
It was also done despite this so called state not having any actual geographic border, at this point.
Ironically it was done sixty-five years, to the day, after a UN vote to grant land to a Jewish state, now known as Israel, a nation that the people who make up Palestine regularly attack.
Now will the Palestinians actually be willing to negotiate, with Israel, over borders and other issues?
Or will they continue their normal listing of ridiculous demands?
The nine who voted no were Israel, the US, Canada, Czech Republic, Panama, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, and Palau.
It passed despite the fact that many of the PLO's leaders are members of groups recognized as terrorist groups.
It was also done despite this so called state not having any actual geographic border, at this point.
Ironically it was done sixty-five years, to the day, after a UN vote to grant land to a Jewish state, now known as Israel, a nation that the people who make up Palestine regularly attack.
Now will the Palestinians actually be willing to negotiate, with Israel, over borders and other issues?
Or will they continue their normal listing of ridiculous demands?
Syrian Internet Shut Off
As Syrian rebels gain more and more ground the government has turned to a new tactic.
On Thursday, they shut off internet to the whole country, as well as cell service to specific regions.
The Assad regime denied that they internet was down everywhere, and that it was their fault in any way.
But network security firms have been able to confirm that Syria dropped completely off the internet at 12:26pm EET, or 3am MST.
All of Syria's internet is government regulated, so only they could effect a full shut off.
The government forces likely hope that cutting the internet will remove the main way rebels communicate.
Physical battles continued throughout the country, with one happening right near the international airport, in Damascus.
It is looking more and more like it's just a matter of time til the rebels win the whole country.
On Thursday, they shut off internet to the whole country, as well as cell service to specific regions.
The Assad regime denied that they internet was down everywhere, and that it was their fault in any way.
But network security firms have been able to confirm that Syria dropped completely off the internet at 12:26pm EET, or 3am MST.
All of Syria's internet is government regulated, so only they could effect a full shut off.
The government forces likely hope that cutting the internet will remove the main way rebels communicate.
Physical battles continued throughout the country, with one happening right near the international airport, in Damascus.
It is looking more and more like it's just a matter of time til the rebels win the whole country.
Forty-eight Dead in Iraq Bombings
Another bomber waited for emergency workers to gather, and then he too detonated his explosives.
Thirty-two people were killed and one hundred and thirty-eight were wounded there.
Across the country other attacks occurred killing sixteen more and injuring another seventy.
Attacks in Baghdad, Falluja, Karbala, Mosul targeted military checkpoints and police.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Uefa Considering Merging Champions and Europa Football Leagues
Big news for football in Europe could be coming.
Uefa president Michel Platini confirmed that they are discussing merging the Champions and Europa Leagues.
If the merger happens it would bring about a super league with sixty-four teams.
For the most part, the Europa League takes a second seat to the Champions, especially financially.
Teams in the Champions League make at least ten times as much money as those in Europa.
Ironically, some of the richest Champions League teams have threatened to split off and form their own league, if the merge doesn't happen.
A decision on the matter may come soon, and it may not.
Uefa wouldn't actually make the change til 2015 or 2018, if they decided to go ahead with it.
Uefa president Michel Platini confirmed that they are discussing merging the Champions and Europa Leagues.
If the merger happens it would bring about a super league with sixty-four teams.
For the most part, the Europa League takes a second seat to the Champions, especially financially.
Teams in the Champions League make at least ten times as much money as those in Europa.
Ironically, some of the richest Champions League teams have threatened to split off and form their own league, if the merge doesn't happen.
A decision on the matter may come soon, and it may not.
Uefa wouldn't actually make the change til 2015 or 2018, if they decided to go ahead with it.
Louisville Headed for ACC
Sources tell us that Louisville will be the Atlantic Coast Conference's replacement for Maryland.
Last Monday, Maryland announced that it would be leaving the ACC for the Big 10 conference.
The Kentucky school will be leaving the Big East, likely in 2014, as that's when Maryland will make it's start in the Big 10.
Louisville will be the seventh school to leave the Big East, within the last decade.
At this time, it is unclear who the Big East will bring in, to fill Louisville's spot.
Last Monday, Maryland announced that it would be leaving the ACC for the Big 10 conference.
The Kentucky school will be leaving the Big East, likely in 2014, as that's when Maryland will make it's start in the Big 10.
Louisville will be the seventh school to leave the Big East, within the last decade.
At this time, it is unclear who the Big East will bring in, to fill Louisville's spot.
30 Tennessee Courthouses Evacuated
Thirty different Tennessee courthouses were evacuated at various times, Tuesday.
Each one of them received a bomb threat call, at some point during the day.
Bomb squads, bomb sniffing dogs, and other explosive experts were called in, to help with checking each building.
While they were searched they were each closed.
Most of them were county courthouses, but one was the federal courthouse in Memphis.
No bombs were found in any of the buildings.
Each one of them received a bomb threat call, at some point during the day.
Bomb squads, bomb sniffing dogs, and other explosive experts were called in, to help with checking each building.
While they were searched they were each closed.
Most of them were county courthouses, but one was the federal courthouse in Memphis.
No bombs were found in any of the buildings.
UN Vote on PLO Status Showing Divisions of EU
The United Nations prepares to vote, on Thursday, about upgrading the PLO's status from observer to non member observer state.
As they do so, lines are being drawn and sides taken.
This is perhaps the most notable amongst the members of the European Union.
France and Spain have stated they will fully support the PLO.
At the same time the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands are standing with Israel and the US, stating that the PLO should not be recognized at all, until it actually works on coming to peace terms with Israel.
The rest of the twenty-seven member EU will likely split fairly evenly, on the issue.
Expectations are for the measure to pass, as much of the rest of the world will back the PLO, but it is just one more thing showing the splitting factions in the EU.
As they do so, lines are being drawn and sides taken.
This is perhaps the most notable amongst the members of the European Union.
France and Spain have stated they will fully support the PLO.
At the same time the UK, Germany, and the Netherlands are standing with Israel and the US, stating that the PLO should not be recognized at all, until it actually works on coming to peace terms with Israel.
The rest of the twenty-seven member EU will likely split fairly evenly, on the issue.
Expectations are for the measure to pass, as much of the rest of the world will back the PLO, but it is just one more thing showing the splitting factions in the EU.
Aurora Police Shoot Naked Knife Wielding Man
An Aurora, Colorado police officer shot and killed a man, Tuesday afternoon.
A man in the 1600 block of South Buckley Road, near East Mexico Avenue, began acting strangely.
Concerned neighbors called for emergency assistance.
Three police officers arrived on the scene to find a naked man wielding a machete and a carving knife.
According to police, the man refused to put down the weapons and came towards police, striking two of the officers.
The third officer then shot him, killing him.
Neither of the other officers were injured.
The incident is under investigation, and per regulations the officer, who shot the man, is on administrative leave while his actions are reviewed.
A man in the 1600 block of South Buckley Road, near East Mexico Avenue, began acting strangely.
Concerned neighbors called for emergency assistance.
Three police officers arrived on the scene to find a naked man wielding a machete and a carving knife.
According to police, the man refused to put down the weapons and came towards police, striking two of the officers.
The third officer then shot him, killing him.
Neither of the other officers were injured.
The incident is under investigation, and per regulations the officer, who shot the man, is on administrative leave while his actions are reviewed.
Egyptian Protests Hit 6 Figures and Clash With Police
Well over a hundred thousand people are now protesting President Morsi, from Tahrir Square.
They are joined by thousands more protesting in other cities, across Egypt.
In Cairo major clashes have occurred with police.
Protestors throw rocks at the police, who respond with tear gas, beatings, and arrests.
Morsi's supporters, including the Muslim Brotherhood, seem to have pulled back, waiting for the president to do something.
With the largest protests seen, during his time in office, calling for his resignation, Morsi must act in some fashion, or be swept from power by the masses.
They are joined by thousands more protesting in other cities, across Egypt.
In Cairo major clashes have occurred with police.
Protestors throw rocks at the police, who respond with tear gas, beatings, and arrests.
Morsi's supporters, including the Muslim Brotherhood, seem to have pulled back, waiting for the president to do something.
With the largest protests seen, during his time in office, calling for his resignation, Morsi must act in some fashion, or be swept from power by the masses.
North Korea Preparing For Missile Launch
Ground activity suggests that North Korea is prepared to attempt a missile launch within the next couple weeks.
Satellites from private companies and governments have shown a buildup of fuel tanks, tents, people, and vehicles over the last few days.
The level activity at the Sohae launch facility is almost exactly the same as seen before previous launches from the site.
It is considered most likely that the launch will be of a Taepodong 2, long range, missile.
December 17 will mark the first anniversary of Kim Jong Il's death, and therefore could make an ideal launch date, for the country.
Satellites from private companies and governments have shown a buildup of fuel tanks, tents, people, and vehicles over the last few days.
The level activity at the Sohae launch facility is almost exactly the same as seen before previous launches from the site.
It is considered most likely that the launch will be of a Taepodong 2, long range, missile.
December 17 will mark the first anniversary of Kim Jong Il's death, and therefore could make an ideal launch date, for the country.
Sigg to be Tried as an Adult
Seventeen year old Austin Reed Sigg will be tried as an adult in the Jessica Ridgeway murder case.
That was the decision handed down by a Jefferson County, Colorado judge, on Tuesday.
Sigg is charged with the kidnapping and murder of ten year old Jessica Ridgeway, in October, and the attempted abduction of a twenty-two year old woman, in May, as well as other charges.
According to police, he has already confessed to all of the charges against him.
He could see a minimum of forty years in prison, if convicted.
Even being tried as an adult, Colorado law keeps him from the death penalty, due to his being below the age of eighteen.
That was the decision handed down by a Jefferson County, Colorado judge, on Tuesday.
Sigg is charged with the kidnapping and murder of ten year old Jessica Ridgeway, in October, and the attempted abduction of a twenty-two year old woman, in May, as well as other charges.
According to police, he has already confessed to all of the charges against him.
He could see a minimum of forty years in prison, if convicted.
Even being tried as an adult, Colorado law keeps him from the death penalty, due to his being below the age of eighteen.
34 Killed in Syrian Suicide Bombings
At least four bombs went off in the Syrian town of Jaramana, Wednesday morning.
Two of the blasts were suicide car bombings.
Those two combined to kill at least thirty-four people and injuring ninety-three.
The other two bombs, were smaller, and there are no reports of injuries or deaths from them.
Fighting in the civil war has become more and more focused in Damascus and it's suburbs.
Rebel forces captured an air force base to the south of the capital, and held off counter attacks, on Tuesday.
Tuesday saw one hundred and thirty-one people die, across the country.
Over forty thousand have died since the conflict began nearly twenty-one months ago.
Two of the blasts were suicide car bombings.
Those two combined to kill at least thirty-four people and injuring ninety-three.
The other two bombs, were smaller, and there are no reports of injuries or deaths from them.
Fighting in the civil war has become more and more focused in Damascus and it's suburbs.
Rebel forces captured an air force base to the south of the capital, and held off counter attacks, on Tuesday.
Tuesday saw one hundred and thirty-one people die, across the country.
Over forty thousand have died since the conflict began nearly twenty-one months ago.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Powerball Hits Half a Billion Dollars
Many first timers were joining in, after no one won on Saturday, setting Wednesday's drawing at $425 million.
But since then, thanks to a huge increase in sales, the prize amount was boosted up to a cool half billion dollars.
If sales continue as they're going, the prize could very well be higher than that.
Forty two states, and the US Virgin Islands, participate in the lottery game.
This is the highest amount it has hit, and close to the highest dollar figure that any lottery has gotten too.
Religion of Obama Continues to Grow
Even when he was candidate Obama in 2008, some of his supporters called him a messiah.
During his time in office such statements have come and gone, forgotten by many.
On Sunday we saw Jamie Foxx call him "our lord and savior".
Now a painting, called "Truth", has once again come to the forefront of the Obama religion.
Back in 2008 the painting, by Michael D'Antuono, was supposed to debut in New York City's Union Square.
Public outcry, against the painting, caused it's exhibition to be canceled.
But the painting is back, and has been displayed as part of an exhibit called "Artists on the Stump – the Road to the White House 2012".
The exhibit is being held through December 15, at Bunker Hill Community College Art Gallery, in Boston, Massachusetts.
Critics are calling it blasphemous, vile, disgusting, and the like.
D'Antuono says that the painting is simply an expression of his right to free speech.
During his time in office such statements have come and gone, forgotten by many.
On Sunday we saw Jamie Foxx call him "our lord and savior".
Now a painting, called "Truth", has once again come to the forefront of the Obama religion.
Back in 2008 the painting, by Michael D'Antuono, was supposed to debut in New York City's Union Square.
Public outcry, against the painting, caused it's exhibition to be canceled.
But the painting is back, and has been displayed as part of an exhibit called "Artists on the Stump – the Road to the White House 2012".
The exhibit is being held through December 15, at Bunker Hill Community College Art Gallery, in Boston, Massachusetts.
Critics are calling it blasphemous, vile, disgusting, and the like.
D'Antuono says that the painting is simply an expression of his right to free speech.
Longoria Signed Through 2022 by Rays
On Monday, the Tampa Bay Rays signed Evan Longoria to an extended contract.
Longoria is now set to be with the team through 2022, and there's an option, in the contract, for 2023.
Over the next ten years he will be paid over one hundred and thirty-six million dollars.
The contract is the second longest in baseball, and the fourth in recent years to cover a decade.
More and more teams are looking to sign young players to extended contracts, in order to keep from losing them if they hit free agency.
Longoria is now set to be with the team through 2022, and there's an option, in the contract, for 2023.
Over the next ten years he will be paid over one hundred and thirty-six million dollars.
The contract is the second longest in baseball, and the fourth in recent years to cover a decade.
More and more teams are looking to sign young players to extended contracts, in order to keep from losing them if they hit free agency.
Majoring in Fermentation at CSU
Colorado State University is preparing to become one of but a few states that offers a major in fermentation.
It will most likely be available on the 2013 Fall list of classes.
Only CSU's Board of Governor's has yet to approve the field of study.
All other boards and committees have already given the go ahead.
Fermentation science is the study of how beer, bread, cheese, wine, etc. come into being.
Brewers and food companies are excited about the new major, and local ones will likely be quick to grab those who have their degree in it.
It will most likely be available on the 2013 Fall list of classes.
Only CSU's Board of Governor's has yet to approve the field of study.
All other boards and committees have already given the go ahead.
Fermentation science is the study of how beer, bread, cheese, wine, etc. come into being.
Brewers and food companies are excited about the new major, and local ones will likely be quick to grab those who have their degree in it.
US Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Kevin R Ebbert
NAVY Petty
Officer 1st Class Kevin R Ebbert, thirty-two, of Arcata, California, died November 24 in
Uruzgan Province, Afghanistan.
A Navy SEAL assigned to a Virginia Beach team was shot and killed while in combat Saturday in Afghanistan.
Petty Officer 1st Class Kevin R. Ebbert, thirty-two, of Arcata, California, died while supporting stability operations in southern Afghanistan, according to a Department of Defense news release.
Ebbert was a Special Warfare Operator assigned to a SEAL team out of Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek, Fort Story. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of our teammate who has made the ultimate sacrifice," said Capt. Robert Smith, Commander, Naval Special Warfare Group Two. "We have lost a courageous patriot who selflessly answered our nation's call to defend freedom and protect us from terrorism."
Kevin Ebbert’s mother, Charlie Jordan, sent this message: “Kevin Ebbert, my thirty-two year old son, US Navy SEAL serving his second deployment in Afghanistan was killed Friday. Kevin was poised to return home early next year and start medical school completing his training started as a Corpsman to become an MD. We last spoke about he and his wife Ursula joining Rotary where he could work in clinics internationally. There are many details to be worked out. There will be a Memorial Service scheduled in Arcata.
"In the meantime we have set up the ‘Kevin Ebbert Memorial Fund’ with Humboldt Area Foundation for those of you who wish to donate to it in Kevin’s name.” A memorial service will be held on November 29 at 10am at the JEB Little Creek Base Chapel. A reception will follow at the SEAL Heritage Center onboard JEB Little Creek.
A Navy SEAL assigned to a Virginia Beach team was shot and killed while in combat Saturday in Afghanistan.
Petty Officer 1st Class Kevin R. Ebbert, thirty-two, of Arcata, California, died while supporting stability operations in southern Afghanistan, according to a Department of Defense news release.
Ebbert was a Special Warfare Operator assigned to a SEAL team out of Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek, Fort Story. "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of our teammate who has made the ultimate sacrifice," said Capt. Robert Smith, Commander, Naval Special Warfare Group Two. "We have lost a courageous patriot who selflessly answered our nation's call to defend freedom and protect us from terrorism."
Kevin Ebbert’s mother, Charlie Jordan, sent this message: “Kevin Ebbert, my thirty-two year old son, US Navy SEAL serving his second deployment in Afghanistan was killed Friday. Kevin was poised to return home early next year and start medical school completing his training started as a Corpsman to become an MD. We last spoke about he and his wife Ursula joining Rotary where he could work in clinics internationally. There are many details to be worked out. There will be a Memorial Service scheduled in Arcata.
"In the meantime we have set up the ‘Kevin Ebbert Memorial Fund’ with Humboldt Area Foundation for those of you who wish to donate to it in Kevin’s name.” A memorial service will be held on November 29 at 10am at the JEB Little Creek Base Chapel. A reception will follow at the SEAL Heritage Center onboard JEB Little Creek.
Detroit Man Charged With "Back Page Murders"
A Detroit man has been charged with the first degree murders of four women.
Twenty-four year old James Brown is accused of meeting the women online and then killing them.
He had met them on a website known as "Back Page", an escort version of craigslist.
On December 19, of 2011, two bodies were found in a trunk of a car.
They belonged to Renisha Landers, twenty-three, and her cousin Demesha Hunt, twenty-four.
Six days later, on December 25, two more bodies were found in the trunk of a car that had been on fire.
Those bodies were eventually identified as being Natasha Curtis and Vernithea McCrary, known escorts.
Since three of the four had profiles on Back Page, the police labeled them the "Back Page Murders".
Brown had already been in custody, since May, for charges of mutilating the bodies and setting the fire.
Over the weekend, police were finally able to gather enough evidence to charge him with their murders, as well.
Twenty-four year old James Brown is accused of meeting the women online and then killing them.
He had met them on a website known as "Back Page", an escort version of craigslist.
On December 19, of 2011, two bodies were found in a trunk of a car.
They belonged to Renisha Landers, twenty-three, and her cousin Demesha Hunt, twenty-four.
Six days later, on December 25, two more bodies were found in the trunk of a car that had been on fire.
Those bodies were eventually identified as being Natasha Curtis and Vernithea McCrary, known escorts.
Since three of the four had profiles on Back Page, the police labeled them the "Back Page Murders".
Brown had already been in custody, since May, for charges of mutilating the bodies and setting the fire.
Over the weekend, police were finally able to gather enough evidence to charge him with their murders, as well.
USMC Lance Cpl. Dale W. Means
MARINE
Lance Cpl. Dale W. Means, twenty-three, of Jordan, Minnesota, died November 18, in Helmand
province, Afghanistan.
In honor and remembrance of Marine Lance Corporal Dale W. Means, Governor Mark Dayton has ordered all US flags and Minnesota flags to be flown at half staff at all state and federal buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise until sunset on Wednesday, November 28.
Lance Corporal Dale W. Means was twenty-three years old and a 2007 graduate of New Prague High School. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in January 2011, and was stationed out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Lance Corporal Means was deployed to Afghanistan in July 2012 as a member of the Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force.
Lance Corporal Dale W. Means gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and died a hero on Sunday, November 18, 2012, when the convoy in which he was riding struck an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Lance Corporal Means was an exemplary Marine, and has the honored distinction of having been awarded the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.
Lance Corporal Means is survived by his wife, Andrea; mother, DaleLyn Means; father, John Means; sister, JoLyn Means; grandparents, and countless in-laws, family members, and friends.
In honor and remembrance of Marine Lance Corporal Dale W. Means, Governor Mark Dayton has ordered all US flags and Minnesota flags to be flown at half staff at all state and federal buildings in the State of Minnesota, from sunrise until sunset on Wednesday, November 28.
Lance Corporal Dale W. Means was twenty-three years old and a 2007 graduate of New Prague High School. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in January 2011, and was stationed out of Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. Lance Corporal Means was deployed to Afghanistan in July 2012 as a member of the Combat Logistics Battalion 2, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force.
Lance Corporal Dale W. Means gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and died a hero on Sunday, November 18, 2012, when the convoy in which he was riding struck an improvised explosive device while conducting combat operations in Helmand Province, Afghanistan. Lance Corporal Means was an exemplary Marine, and has the honored distinction of having been awarded the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.
Lance Corporal Means is survived by his wife, Andrea; mother, DaleLyn Means; father, John Means; sister, JoLyn Means; grandparents, and countless in-laws, family members, and friends.
US ARMY Spc. Joseph A Richardson
ARMY Spc.
Joseph A Richardson, twenty-three, of Booneville, Arkansas, died November 16, in Paktika
province, Afghanistan.
The Department of Defense said Richardson died from wounds sustained from small arms fire and an improvised explosive device. “Specialist Joseph A. Richardson was a true American hero, giving his life in service to our great country,” said US Representative Mike Ross in a released statement. “His bravery, dedication and patriotism exemplified what it means to be an American soldier and I am eternally grateful for his selfless sacrifice. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, parents and the rest of his many family and friends during this very difficult time.”
Richardson’s wife lives in Manhattan, Kansas, while his mother lives in Dakota City, Iowa, and his dad in Gilmore City, Iowa. Richardson and the other soldier were with the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division based in Fort Riley, Kan.
A soldier from
Booneville died in combat Friday in Afghanistan, the Department of
Defense said Sunday.
Spc. Joseph A. Richardson, 23, was killed in the Paktika province while
supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Richardson was posthumously
promoted to sergeant after his death, according to his military unit’s
Facebook page.
The Department of Defense said Richardson and another soldier died from
wounds sustained from small arms fire and an improvised explosive
device.
“Specialist Joseph A. Richardson was a true American hero – giving his
life in service to our great country,” said U.S. Representative Mike
Ross in a released statement. “His bravery, dedication and patriotism
exemplified what it means to be an American soldier and I am eternally
grateful for his selfless sacrifice. My thoughts and prayers are with
his wife, parents and the rest of his many family and friends during
this very difficult time.”
Richardson’s wife lives in Manhattan, Kan., while his mother lives in
Dakota City, Iowa, and his dad in Gilmore City, Iowa. Richardson and the
other soldier were with the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th
Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division based in Fort Riley, Kan.
Read more: http://sgt-jim.blogspot.com/2012/11/rip-sgt-channing-b-hicks-spc-joseph.html
A soldier from
Boonevile, Arkansas, died in combat Friday, November 16, in Afghanistan, the Department of
Defense said Sunday.
Spc. Joseph A. Richardson, twenty-three, and Sgt. Channing B. Hicks, twenty-four, were killed in the Paktika province while
supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Richardson was posthumously
promoted to sergeant after his death, according to his military unit’s
Facebook page.Read more: http://sgt-jim.blogspot.com/2012/11/rip-sgt-channing-b-hicks-spc-joseph.html
The Department of Defense said Richardson died from wounds sustained from small arms fire and an improvised explosive device. “Specialist Joseph A. Richardson was a true American hero, giving his life in service to our great country,” said US Representative Mike Ross in a released statement. “His bravery, dedication and patriotism exemplified what it means to be an American soldier and I am eternally grateful for his selfless sacrifice. My thoughts and prayers are with his wife, parents and the rest of his many family and friends during this very difficult time.”
Richardson’s wife lives in Manhattan, Kansas, while his mother lives in Dakota City, Iowa, and his dad in Gilmore City, Iowa. Richardson and the other soldier were with the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division based in Fort Riley, Kan.
Anti Morsi Protests Grow in Numbers
| Tharir Square |
They say it's too late for him to back down from his decrees from Thursday.
His deal with judges was not enough for the masses arriving to stop protesting him.
Egyptians will not allow another man to try and become dictator, again, not so soon.
Protesters clashed with police and Morsi supporters, leaving one man dead after he inhaled tear gas and suffered a heart attack.
Morsi supporters, including the Muslim brotherhood, backed down from having a rally on Monday, saying they feared for their safety.
If these protests continue, and most of his followers won't show their faces, Morsi will have no choice but to resign.
US ARMY Sgt. Channing B. Hicks
ARMY Sgt.
Channing B. Hicks, twenty-four, of Greer, South Carolina, died November 16, in Paktika province,
Afghanistan.
A soldier from Greer was killed in Afghanistan on Friday, November 16, when his unit was attacked by enemy forces, according to the Department of Defense. US Army Sgt. Channing B. Hicks, 24, of Greer and US Army Spc. Joseph A. Richardson of Booneville, Arkansas, twenty-three, died Friday in Paktika province.
He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, at Fort Riley, Kansas. Officials say he died from injuries suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device and small arms fire.
Hicks, known as “Bo” to family and friends, grew up in Greer and graduated from Greer High School in 2006, where he played football. Greer High School athletic director Travis Perry knew Bo Hicks and grew up with Hicks' father, Chan Hicks Sr. “He was really a fine young man,” Perry said Sunday. “He was always, ‘Yes, sir. No, sir.' He was a quiet kid and didn't play a whole lot, but he played for our scout team and found a way to contribute. He was part of the foundation of our team, helping the other players prepare for the games each week.”
Perry said he spoke to Hicks' father early Saturday. The family left early Sunday morning for Dover, Md., to meet the plane carrying Hicks' body back to the United States. “They're having a really hard time with it, as can be expected,” Perry said. “He made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. It's a loss for our whole country.”
Hicks' younger brother, John, is a star senior linebacker with the Greer High School football team. Perry said John Hicks looked up to his older brother.
During the weekend, friends and family posted on Bo Hicks' Facebook page, sharing their memories, including four-wheeling and fishing with him, and hailing the twenty-four year old as a hero. John Hicks also shared his feelings about his brother on Facebook. “First I would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers,” John Hicks wrote. “I also wanted to say that my brother was a good man, he served our country well and did it with pride. He was not just my brother but my best friend and my hero. I could talk to him about girls, fights, and Friday night football games. There will never be a moment forgotten with Bo. R.I.P Bo Hicks. I love you.”
A soldier from Greer was killed in Afghanistan on Friday, November 16, when his unit was attacked by enemy forces, according to the Department of Defense. US Army Sgt. Channing B. Hicks, 24, of Greer and US Army Spc. Joseph A. Richardson of Booneville, Arkansas, twenty-three, died Friday in Paktika province.
He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 28th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, at Fort Riley, Kansas. Officials say he died from injuries suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device and small arms fire.
Hicks, known as “Bo” to family and friends, grew up in Greer and graduated from Greer High School in 2006, where he played football. Greer High School athletic director Travis Perry knew Bo Hicks and grew up with Hicks' father, Chan Hicks Sr. “He was really a fine young man,” Perry said Sunday. “He was always, ‘Yes, sir. No, sir.' He was a quiet kid and didn't play a whole lot, but he played for our scout team and found a way to contribute. He was part of the foundation of our team, helping the other players prepare for the games each week.”
Perry said he spoke to Hicks' father early Saturday. The family left early Sunday morning for Dover, Md., to meet the plane carrying Hicks' body back to the United States. “They're having a really hard time with it, as can be expected,” Perry said. “He made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. It's a loss for our whole country.”
Hicks' younger brother, John, is a star senior linebacker with the Greer High School football team. Perry said John Hicks looked up to his older brother.
During the weekend, friends and family posted on Bo Hicks' Facebook page, sharing their memories, including four-wheeling and fishing with him, and hailing the twenty-four year old as a hero. John Hicks also shared his feelings about his brother on Facebook. “First I would like to thank everyone for their thoughts and prayers,” John Hicks wrote. “I also wanted to say that my brother was a good man, he served our country well and did it with pride. He was not just my brother but my best friend and my hero. I could talk to him about girls, fights, and Friday night football games. There will never be a moment forgotten with Bo. R.I.P Bo Hicks. I love you.”
Dairy Farmers Attack EU Parliament With Milk
Protests have a new, healthy for you, weapon.
As thousands of angry dairy farmers descended on Brussels, they attacked the European Union's Parliament building, and it's police guards, by spraying milk at them.
The farmers, who came in their hundreds of tractors, from all over Europe, are angry that milk prices have fallen.
They're demanding that the EU raise dairy prices by at least twenty-five percent.
Farmers say that unless it is raised, many of them will go out of business, as they aren't able to make up their costs.
Among their other demands was an increase in EU subsidies for farmers.
Already nearly half of the EU's budget goes to subsidizing farmers, throughout Europe.
As thousands of angry dairy farmers descended on Brussels, they attacked the European Union's Parliament building, and it's police guards, by spraying milk at them.
The farmers, who came in their hundreds of tractors, from all over Europe, are angry that milk prices have fallen.
They're demanding that the EU raise dairy prices by at least twenty-five percent.
Farmers say that unless it is raised, many of them will go out of business, as they aren't able to make up their costs.
Among their other demands was an increase in EU subsidies for farmers.
Already nearly half of the EU's budget goes to subsidizing farmers, throughout Europe.
Hungarian Member of Parliament Calls for Jew Registry
| Marton Gyongyosi |
Marton Gyongyosi, proposed that the country create a list of all it's Jews, saying they could be a threat, after the recent Gaza conflict.
With his bringing back memories of Nazism, mass anger was quickly aimed at Gyongyosi, including calls for his resignation.
The government's office stated that, "The government strictly rejects extremist, racist, anti Semitic voices of any kind and does everything to suppress such voices."
Speaker of Parliament Laszlo Kover countered with a proposal for new house rules that would sanction such comments from it's members, in the future.
Gyongyosi apologized for not wording his remarks correctly, in a way that they could be misunderstood.
Causing some to point out he wasn't actually apologizing for what he said.
But Gyongyosi says he will not resign and that the matter is now closed.
Jobbik is regularly accused of promoting anti Semitism, and also has it's own personal group of thugs, known as the Hungarian Guard.
With Options Dwindling, The Battle Against Obamacare Continues in The House and The Courts
Options for preventing the implementation of Obamacare are diminishing
as Speaker John Boehner and House Republicans appear to have given up
on a full repeal of the health care law.Boehner is now considering gutting particular aspects of the law by applying pressure on Obama and working with moderate Democrats.
But, the failure of the Boehner and House Republicans to defund Obamacare back in April 2011, during the first budget battle, leaves some to doubt their dedication to continuing the fight against Obamacare.
According to Senator John Thune (R-SD), chairman of the Republican Conference, the components of the law targeted for dissolution include a tax on medical devices, the Independent Payment Advisory Board and the individual mandate requiring people to buy insurance.
At the same time, House Republicans have been attempting to put their stamp on the law. The Oversight and Government Reform and Ways and Means committees have sent subpoenas to Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, over the past few weeks, demanding information that committee leaders say she has refused to provide.
Far from being an easy endeavor, Randy Barnett, the Georgetown University law professor who assisted in constructing the Supreme Court argument against Obamacare earlier this year, said that, “it’s going to become increasingly difficult because courts are much less willing to overturn something that’s already entrenched.”
So, time is of the essence because though some court challenges remain, as parts of the law are implemented, the harder it will be to fight it. “There’s no question that one of the reasons why we had as much room to run as we did is we had a two year delay in implementing most of the law,” Barnett said. “That opening is closing.”
One of the pending court cases is an Oklahoma lawsuit which maintains that insurance can be subsidized only through state run exchanges and not by the federally backed ones that Obamacare enacts.
At the same time, Paul Howard, director of the Manhattan Institute’s Center for Medical Progress and Stephen Parente, director of the Medical Industry Leadership Institute at the University of Minnesota, explain on Real Clear Politics that Obamacare faces a number of obstacles:
“‘Delaying implementation [of Obamacare] until 2014 helped the president win re-election, but now the bill is coming due,’ the duo says. ‘The administration can’t forestall Obamacare’s massive regulatory impact any longer, and the result will keep Congress and the media occupied for months and years to come.’”Boehner has also pointed to governors who may be able to thwart the establishment of insurance exchanges in their respective states.
Republicans should continue to work diligently towards this effort because fully implemented Obamacare will represent over 1/6 of our economy. The Heritage Foundation has compiled an Obamacare guide, demonstrating how it will affect specific groups of individuals:
Seniors
Doctors
Business & The Economy
States
Families & Future Generations
The Uninsured
Generic Cholesterol Reducer Lipitor Recalled
India based Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals Inc. may have accidentally added an ingredient to their generic version of Pfizer's Lipitor. The intent behind the accident may have been to add an additional ingredient intended to further decrease arterial plaque which can clog arteries and lead to heart attacks.
The accidental ingredient is microscopic shards of glass. The glass shards were inadvertently added to the company's 10, 20, and 40 milligram dose versions of the tablets and include both 90 and 500 capsule bottles of the drug.
Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals Inc. has issued a recall of the pills. The affected lot numbers are enumerated in a document provided by the company.
Ranbaxy, a US subsidiary of the India based parent company of the same name, is the largest producer of atorvastatin calcium, the generic version of Pfizer's Lipitor. Ranbaxy informed the Food and Drug Administration of the possible contamination and initiated the recall. So far, there have been no injuries or reported cases of ingestion of the tablets. If you use a generic version of the drug, please check your bottles against the list before taking the drug.
This is not Ranbaxy's first foray into the realm of FDA investigations. Since 2008, the company has been in at least 30 previous battles with the FDA and lost approval to import or produce those drugs, largely due to the firm's manufacturing processes.
Due to the recall, prices for the drug may increase for many prescribed the medication. The patients may need to purchase the more expensive Pfizer version of Lipitor. In the meantime, there will still be shortages as Ranbaxy produced a large portion of the market share of the generic atorvastatin calcium.
In the meantime, those who are or know someone at risk of heart attack may wish to read Surviving a Successful Heart Attack (Google Affiliate Ad), a good book to help with a long, happy lifestyle.
Article originally published at P-G Matuszak's Mental Aikido. Reprinted with permission.
The accidental ingredient is microscopic shards of glass. The glass shards were inadvertently added to the company's 10, 20, and 40 milligram dose versions of the tablets and include both 90 and 500 capsule bottles of the drug.
Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals Inc. has issued a recall of the pills. The affected lot numbers are enumerated in a document provided by the company.
Ranbaxy, a US subsidiary of the India based parent company of the same name, is the largest producer of atorvastatin calcium, the generic version of Pfizer's Lipitor. Ranbaxy informed the Food and Drug Administration of the possible contamination and initiated the recall. So far, there have been no injuries or reported cases of ingestion of the tablets. If you use a generic version of the drug, please check your bottles against the list before taking the drug.
This is not Ranbaxy's first foray into the realm of FDA investigations. Since 2008, the company has been in at least 30 previous battles with the FDA and lost approval to import or produce those drugs, largely due to the firm's manufacturing processes.
Due to the recall, prices for the drug may increase for many prescribed the medication. The patients may need to purchase the more expensive Pfizer version of Lipitor. In the meantime, there will still be shortages as Ranbaxy produced a large portion of the market share of the generic atorvastatin calcium.
In the meantime, those who are or know someone at risk of heart attack may wish to read Surviving a Successful Heart Attack (Google Affiliate Ad), a good book to help with a long, happy lifestyle.
Article originally published at P-G Matuszak's Mental Aikido. Reprinted with permission.
Monday, November 26, 2012
Feds Stepping in on NHL Lockout
Possibly a small glimmer of hope remains that there will be any form of hockey for this season.
A large chunk of the season has already cancelled, due to the lockout imposed by the league.
Negotiations between the NHL and the players' union has failed to the point that the feds are stepping in.
On Monday, Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service director George Cohen announced that federal mediators will now be trying to work things out between the two groups.
In a statement, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said, "While we have no particular level of expectation going into this process, we welcome a new approach in trying to reach a resolution of the ongoing labor dispute at the earliest possible date."
NHLPA executive director Don Fehr released his own statement, saying "We look forward to their involvement as we continue working to reach an equitable agreement for both the players and the owners."
Now we just wait and see if the federal government can solve the problem.
A large chunk of the season has already cancelled, due to the lockout imposed by the league.
Negotiations between the NHL and the players' union has failed to the point that the feds are stepping in.
On Monday, Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service director George Cohen announced that federal mediators will now be trying to work things out between the two groups.
In a statement, NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly said, "While we have no particular level of expectation going into this process, we welcome a new approach in trying to reach a resolution of the ongoing labor dispute at the earliest possible date."
NHLPA executive director Don Fehr released his own statement, saying "We look forward to their involvement as we continue working to reach an equitable agreement for both the players and the owners."
Now we just wait and see if the federal government can solve the problem.
Cambridge Preparing Terminator Studies Center
Cambridge University has announced what could be a very interesting field of study.
The Centre for the Study of Existential Risk will be the home for "terminator studies".
Their goal for the new area of study is to ensure that mankind exists, in the future, by preparing for situations in which humanity might find itself in danger of extinction.
The center will focus on the four greatest threats to human existence: artificial intelligence, climate change, nuclear war, and rogue biotechnology.
Cambridge, one of the world's oldest universities, has long been known for being at the forefront of scientific thought.
The Centre for the Study of Existential Risk will be the home for "terminator studies".
Their goal for the new area of study is to ensure that mankind exists, in the future, by preparing for situations in which humanity might find itself in danger of extinction.
The center will focus on the four greatest threats to human existence: artificial intelligence, climate change, nuclear war, and rogue biotechnology.
Cambridge, one of the world's oldest universities, has long been known for being at the forefront of scientific thought.
Minnesota Man Arrested For Killing Teens Who Broke Into His House
Sixty-four year old Byron David Smith was charged with two counts of second degree murder, on Monday.
On Friday, Smith asked a neighbor it the knew a good lawyer and then asked them to call Little Falls, Minnesota police.
He took police into his home and showed them the bodies of two teenagers that he said broke into his place on Thursday.
According to Smith he was in his basement when he heard a window break upstairs.
Fearful after at least one previous break in, he grabbed one of his guns, a Mini 14 rifle.
When he could see the first suspect from the waist down, he fired, then shot him in the face when he fell to the floor.
Smith then dragged the body out of view and sat back down.
A few minutes later the second person started down the stairs, so he shot them when he saw their waist as well.
When she fell to the floor, Smith went to shoot her in the face, but his rifle jammed.
When this happened, Smith says the girl laughed at him.
Grabbing his .22, Smith then fired several shots into her chest, then dragged her body next to the boy's.
Seeing that the girl was still breathing he took his revolver to the bottom of her chin, and fired into her skull.
His two victims were seventeen year old Nicholas Brady and eighteen year old Haile Kifer.
Kifer had a history of breaking into houses, but neither teen had and any history of violence.
Minnesota law allows for homeowners to use deadly force when they feel their life is threatened by home invaders.
However prosecutors are describing Smith's acts as those of an execution.
They have raised questions about the amounts of shots fired, which Smith does acknowledge was excessive.
Prosecutors are also pointing out the delay in the reporting of the shooting, as well as Smith's movement of the bodies.
On Friday, Smith asked a neighbor it the knew a good lawyer and then asked them to call Little Falls, Minnesota police.
He took police into his home and showed them the bodies of two teenagers that he said broke into his place on Thursday.
According to Smith he was in his basement when he heard a window break upstairs.
Fearful after at least one previous break in, he grabbed one of his guns, a Mini 14 rifle.
When he could see the first suspect from the waist down, he fired, then shot him in the face when he fell to the floor.
Smith then dragged the body out of view and sat back down.
A few minutes later the second person started down the stairs, so he shot them when he saw their waist as well.
When she fell to the floor, Smith went to shoot her in the face, but his rifle jammed.
When this happened, Smith says the girl laughed at him.
Grabbing his .22, Smith then fired several shots into her chest, then dragged her body next to the boy's.
Seeing that the girl was still breathing he took his revolver to the bottom of her chin, and fired into her skull.
Kifer had a history of breaking into houses, but neither teen had and any history of violence.
Minnesota law allows for homeowners to use deadly force when they feel their life is threatened by home invaders.
However prosecutors are describing Smith's acts as those of an execution.
They have raised questions about the amounts of shots fired, which Smith does acknowledge was excessive.
Prosecutors are also pointing out the delay in the reporting of the shooting, as well as Smith's movement of the bodies.
UN to Vote on Palestinian Status, on Thursday
On Thursday, the United Nations General Assembly is set to vote on the status of the Palestinian state.
The UNGA will decide if the PLO should be moved from observer to a nonmember observer state.
It is very likely to pass as over two thirds of the UN's members have already recognized them as a country.
PLO leaders believe that the gain in status will move them closer to becoming the 194th member of the UN.
The US has previously vetoed a 2011 application by the PLO to become member 194, saying that they won't approve any application until after talks have successfully been concluded with Israel.
Both the US and Israel state that instead of going to the UN, the PLO should stop trying to skip negotiations, with Israel, over their statehood.
The UNGA will decide if the PLO should be moved from observer to a nonmember observer state.
It is very likely to pass as over two thirds of the UN's members have already recognized them as a country.
PLO leaders believe that the gain in status will move them closer to becoming the 194th member of the UN.
The US has previously vetoed a 2011 application by the PLO to become member 194, saying that they won't approve any application until after talks have successfully been concluded with Israel.
Both the US and Israel state that instead of going to the UN, the PLO should stop trying to skip negotiations, with Israel, over their statehood.
Spaceport Colorado One Step Closer to Reality
Spaceport Colorado gained a step closer to becoming reality.
Over the last couple of weeks private and public donors have pledged or given $660,000.
Matched with money already granted, by the Federal Aviation Administration, it puts funding closing in on a million dollars.
The next steps will be hiring consultants and then planning out the whole deal so that they can apply for a spaceport license.
Front Range Airport is to be the home for the future spaceport.
Located six miles east of Denver, the airport is already one of the largest general aviation airports in the country, and it has nothing but room to grow, out on the plains.
Currently plans are on pace for the spaceport to be finished within ten to fifteen years.
Over the last couple of weeks private and public donors have pledged or given $660,000.
Matched with money already granted, by the Federal Aviation Administration, it puts funding closing in on a million dollars.
The next steps will be hiring consultants and then planning out the whole deal so that they can apply for a spaceport license.
Front Range Airport is to be the home for the future spaceport.
Located six miles east of Denver, the airport is already one of the largest general aviation airports in the country, and it has nothing but room to grow, out on the plains.
Currently plans are on pace for the spaceport to be finished within ten to fifteen years.
David's Sling Successfully Tested
Israel has successfully tested David's Sling.
During the latest conflict with Hamas, Israel's Iron Dome missile defenses became well known, around the world.
Iron Dome is however only meant to target short range missiles.
To further protect Israel, they have developed David's Sling to protect them from mid range missiles.
David's Sling has a range of twenty-five to two hundred miles.
It was created in a joint effort between Israel's Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and US contractor Raytheon, who call it the Magic Wand.
Goals are for Israel's Sling to be fully operational by 2014.
In 2016, Israel expects it's Arrow long range missile defense system to be ready to go, as well.
During the latest conflict with Hamas, Israel's Iron Dome missile defenses became well known, around the world.
Iron Dome is however only meant to target short range missiles.
To further protect Israel, they have developed David's Sling to protect them from mid range missiles.
David's Sling has a range of twenty-five to two hundred miles.
It was created in a joint effort between Israel's Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and US contractor Raytheon, who call it the Magic Wand.
Goals are for Israel's Sling to be fully operational by 2014.
In 2016, Israel expects it's Arrow long range missile defense system to be ready to go, as well.
Homeland Security and Interpol Seize 132 Websites
Police in at least six countries took place in an international domain name seizure, on Monday.
One hundred and thirty-two domain names were shut down for selling counterfeit merchandise.
Homeland Security led the investigation, but was joined by Interpol and authorities from Belgium, France, Denmark, Romania, and the UK.
Investigators confirmed the sites were illegal, after checking with copyright owners.
One hundred and thirty-two domain names were shut down for selling counterfeit merchandise.
Homeland Security led the investigation, but was joined by Interpol and authorities from Belgium, France, Denmark, Romania, and the UK.
Investigators confirmed the sites were illegal, after checking with copyright owners.
Supreme Court Orders Another Look at Constitutionality of Obamacare
On Monday, the Supreme Court ordered the 4th US Circuit Court of Appeals to reconsider a case.
That case is Liberty University's challenge against Obamacare.
The university challenges that the mandated health care is unconstitutional, as it requires employers to pay for birth control.
Some forms of birth control, such as morning after and week after pills are seen as immoral by most religious communities.
Many have argued that forcing employers of religious organizations to do something against their faith, is a violation of their first amendment guarantee of religious freedom.
In 2010 a federal judge had rejected the claim and the appellate court later rejected it as well.
The Supreme Court's order gives new life to the claim, and once again brings awareness to the unconstitutionality of Obamacare.
That case is Liberty University's challenge against Obamacare.
The university challenges that the mandated health care is unconstitutional, as it requires employers to pay for birth control.
Some forms of birth control, such as morning after and week after pills are seen as immoral by most religious communities.
Many have argued that forcing employers of religious organizations to do something against their faith, is a violation of their first amendment guarantee of religious freedom.
In 2010 a federal judge had rejected the claim and the appellate court later rejected it as well.
The Supreme Court's order gives new life to the claim, and once again brings awareness to the unconstitutionality of Obamacare.
Miami International Airport Evacuated
Concourse J of the Miami International Airport was evacuated for part of Monday.
A man claimed to have luggage filled with dynamite, causing the evacuation.
The bomb squad was called in, but they found no explosives.
Police say the man recanted his dynamite statement, after he was arrested.
One outgoing and several incoming flights were delayed by the scare.
None of the airport's other concourses were affected.
Miami International has since resumed full operations.
A man claimed to have luggage filled with dynamite, causing the evacuation.
The bomb squad was called in, but they found no explosives.
Police say the man recanted his dynamite statement, after he was arrested.
One outgoing and several incoming flights were delayed by the scare.
None of the airport's other concourses were affected.
Miami International has since resumed full operations.
Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak Resigns
The seventy year old announced that he will be resigning from politics after the elections, but will continue his post until his replacement is sworn in.
He said that he wishes to spend more time with his family.
Elections are scheduled for January 22.
Barak has served either in the military or in politics for over fifty years.
He served in the Israeli Defense Forces for thirty-six years, rising from draftee to Chief of Staff.
From 1999-2001, he served as Prime Minister, the shortest term ever for an Israeli PM.
Some have called him the man "everyone loves to hate", but he is widely respected, especially for his insight into his enemies.
Rumors of who will replace him are circulating widely, including some thought that he may stay on in an advisory position.
Fire Kills Fourteen Disabled Workers in Germany
Fourteen people were killed and six injured in a fire in Titisee-Neustadt, Germany, Monday afternoon.
The fire struck a facility, run by the Catholic Church's Caritas Foundation, which provides disabled people with trade jobs.
Around one hundred and twenty people have jobs there, including metalwork, woodwork, and electrical installation.
Over one hundred fire fighters were called to battle the blaze.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
The fire struck a facility, run by the Catholic Church's Caritas Foundation, which provides disabled people with trade jobs.
Around one hundred and twenty people have jobs there, including metalwork, woodwork, and electrical installation.
Over one hundred fire fighters were called to battle the blaze.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Thousands Strike in Bangladseh After Second Factory Fire
Thousands of workers strike in Bangladesh after second factory fire.
Just two days after a clothing factory fire killed one hundred and seventeen people, another clothing factory was engulfed in flames.
The second fire took firefighters over four hours to control, but killed no one and injured a dozen, early Monday morning.
Garment district workers struck on Monday, protesting the unsafe environments which led to the two fires.
Fire safety is of very little concern in Bangladesh, until something goes horribly wrong, then it suddenly becomes a huge issue, for a little bit of time.
Factory owners often promise the government that they'll improve conditions, but rarely actually do, so as to keep costs low.
Just two days after a clothing factory fire killed one hundred and seventeen people, another clothing factory was engulfed in flames.
The second fire took firefighters over four hours to control, but killed no one and injured a dozen, early Monday morning.
Garment district workers struck on Monday, protesting the unsafe environments which led to the two fires.
Fire safety is of very little concern in Bangladesh, until something goes horribly wrong, then it suddenly becomes a huge issue, for a little bit of time.
Factory owners often promise the government that they'll improve conditions, but rarely actually do, so as to keep costs low.
Mosri Backs Down From Power Grab
According to the latest reports out of Egypt, President Morsi has backed down from his Thursday decrees.
His decrees would've made him unchallengeable in the government, and some had even said it made him a new pharaoh.
After his decrees were made public, the country was racked with violent protests.
Two people were killed in them and over five hundred were injured.
Morsi backed down Monday night, after judges and lawyers throughout the country went on strike, for a second straight day, in protest of his illegal moves.
Late Monday it was announced that Morsi and the Supreme Judicial Council had come to an agreement on things.
No details were released other than that Morsi would not be usurping the powers he had said he would.
Supporters, of the President, said that Tuesday would see protests from them, but they've now cancelled those plans.
His decrees would've made him unchallengeable in the government, and some had even said it made him a new pharaoh.
After his decrees were made public, the country was racked with violent protests.
Two people were killed in them and over five hundred were injured.
Morsi backed down Monday night, after judges and lawyers throughout the country went on strike, for a second straight day, in protest of his illegal moves.
Late Monday it was announced that Morsi and the Supreme Judicial Council had come to an agreement on things.
No details were released other than that Morsi would not be usurping the powers he had said he would.
Supporters, of the President, said that Tuesday would see protests from them, but they've now cancelled those plans.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
Preview: The Colorado Ballet's The Nutcracker
The Nutcracker ballet opened up Saturday at the Ellie Caulkins Opera House, in Denver.
It promises to "dazzle audiences with glittering snowflakes, shimmering sugarplums, unforgettable characters and stunning costumes and scenery".
Ever since Tchaikovsky composed the Nutcracker, audiences have been amazed by it's wonders.
This is the fifty-second year of the performance, for Colorado.
We went last year, loved it, and will be repeating our visit this year.
You can purchase tickets for showings through December 24.
If you're not in Denver, be sure to look for a performance in your area.
It promises to "dazzle audiences with glittering snowflakes, shimmering sugarplums, unforgettable characters and stunning costumes and scenery".
Ever since Tchaikovsky composed the Nutcracker, audiences have been amazed by it's wonders.
This is the fifty-second year of the performance, for Colorado.
We went last year, loved it, and will be repeating our visit this year.
You can purchase tickets for showings through December 24.
If you're not in Denver, be sure to look for a performance in your area.
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