DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Monday, September 04, 2017
New Math Deals Minnesota’s Pensions the Biggest Hit in the U.S.
Minnesota’s debt to its workers’ retirement system has soared by $33.4 billion, or $6,000 for every resident, courtesy of accounting rules.
The jump caused the finances of Minnesota’s pensions to erode more than any other state’s last year as accounting standards seek to prevent governments from using overly optimistic assumptions to minimize what they owe public employees decades from now. Because of changes in actuarial math, Minnesota in 2016 reported having just 53 percent of what it needed to cover promised benefits, down from 80 percent a year earlier, transforming it from one of the best funded state systems to the seventh worst, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.
“It’s a crisis," said Susan Lenczewski, executive director of the state’s Legislative Commission on Pensions and Retirement.
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The jump caused the finances of Minnesota’s pensions to erode more than any other state’s last year as accounting standards seek to prevent governments from using overly optimistic assumptions to minimize what they owe public employees decades from now. Because of changes in actuarial math, Minnesota in 2016 reported having just 53 percent of what it needed to cover promised benefits, down from 80 percent a year earlier, transforming it from one of the best funded state systems to the seventh worst, according to data compiled by Bloomberg.
“It’s a crisis," said Susan Lenczewski, executive director of the state’s Legislative Commission on Pensions and Retirement.
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MEMA Reminds Marylanders that September is National and Maryland Preparedness Month
“Preparing for an emergency before it happens can make a huge difference both in our homes and our communities,” said Governor Hogan. “This month is a reminder that the time to prepare is now and that all Marylanders must work together and help each other during weather-related emergencies and other hazardous situations.”
Common hazards in Maryland include flooding, high wind, severe thunderstorms, and winter storms. Several online sources provide good emergency preparedness information for these and additional threats including:
Report: Mueller Working With Schneiderman
Special counsel Robert Mueller is reportedly working with New York State Attorney General Eric Schneiderman on his investigation of former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort.
Politico reports that Mueller and the NY AG’s office have communicated regularly in recent weeks and shared evidence, though indictments are not immediately forthcoming. Schneiderman’s team is also said to be investigating transactions related to Trump businesses and may share its findings with Mueller.
Schneiderman is a vociferous Trump critic who has engaged the administration in litigation related to the travel ban, health care reform, and deregulatory efforts.
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Politico reports that Mueller and the NY AG’s office have communicated regularly in recent weeks and shared evidence, though indictments are not immediately forthcoming. Schneiderman’s team is also said to be investigating transactions related to Trump businesses and may share its findings with Mueller.
Schneiderman is a vociferous Trump critic who has engaged the administration in litigation related to the travel ban, health care reform, and deregulatory efforts.
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Reid Asked WH To Help Menendez Donor
Former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid personally asked the Obama administration to help a Florida eye doctor who was accused of paying Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes, according to the Department of Justice.
The senator asked Reid in November 2011 to pressure the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services to drop its ruling against Dr. Solomon Melgen, wherein the agency claimed the eye doctor over-billed Medicaid for $8.9 million, Bloomberg reports.
Reid called a former Obama aide to reportedly try and apply pressure on the administration to intervene in the case, but the aide refused to get involved in the matter after he realized the case involved a single doctor and a federal agency.
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The senator asked Reid in November 2011 to pressure the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services to drop its ruling against Dr. Solomon Melgen, wherein the agency claimed the eye doctor over-billed Medicaid for $8.9 million, Bloomberg reports.
Reid called a former Obama aide to reportedly try and apply pressure on the administration to intervene in the case, but the aide refused to get involved in the matter after he realized the case involved a single doctor and a federal agency.
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18 Republicans Fall in Line to Oppose Trump’s Elimination of DACA
The number of Republicans that are speaking publicly about their support for continuing the Obama-era amnesty program for people who were brought to the country illegally as children has reached 18.
Three Senate Republicans and 15 House members — including House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) — are urging President Donald Trump to continue former President Barack Obama’s executive action, put in place in 2012, to give some 850,000 illegal aliens temporary legal status and work permits, at least until Congress can come up with immigration legislation to determine its fate.
Aside from Ryan, the other lawmakers who don’t want Trump to end DACA are: Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) – who voted against the Dream Act in 2010 that basically gave the same protections as DACA) – and Sens. Orin Hatch (R-UT), Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Jeff Flake (R-AZ); and Reps. Jeff Denham (R-CA), David Valadao (R-CA), Carlos Curbelo (R-FL), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Daniel Donovan (R-NY), Don Bacon (R-NE), Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Will Hurd (R-TX), Martha McSally (R-AZ), Scott Taylor (R-VA), Dave Reichert (R-WA), Dan Newhouse (R-WA), and John Faso (R-NY).
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Three Senate Republicans and 15 House members — including House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI) — are urging President Donald Trump to continue former President Barack Obama’s executive action, put in place in 2012, to give some 850,000 illegal aliens temporary legal status and work permits, at least until Congress can come up with immigration legislation to determine its fate.
Aside from Ryan, the other lawmakers who don’t want Trump to end DACA are: Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) – who voted against the Dream Act in 2010 that basically gave the same protections as DACA) – and Sens. Orin Hatch (R-UT), Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Jeff Flake (R-AZ); and Reps. Jeff Denham (R-CA), David Valadao (R-CA), Carlos Curbelo (R-FL), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Daniel Donovan (R-NY), Don Bacon (R-NE), Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), Will Hurd (R-TX), Martha McSally (R-AZ), Scott Taylor (R-VA), Dave Reichert (R-WA), Dan Newhouse (R-WA), and John Faso (R-NY).
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70 Arrested in South Carolina Undercover Drug Operation
SUMTER COUNTY, SC (WLTX) - Deputies have arrested 70 people in a six-month undercover drug operation in Sumter County dubbed Operation Eclipse," according to the Sumter County Sheriff's Office.
“We have arrested 70 people,” Sumter County Sheriff Anthony Dennis said. "And more arrests are expected. We still have 20 outstanding warrants.”
In addition to $108,931.64 in cash and 21 fireams, deputies say they also seized methamphetamine, opiates, marijuana, cocaine, crack cocaine and heroin.
Dennis said the arrests should be a warning to others who think drugs, illegal weapons and other crimes are the way to a successful future.
"Seventy people didn’t listen the last time we issued a warning,” he said. “I’d love to say this should end illegal activities in Sumter County, but some people have to go to jail before they learn. Unfortunately others will be arrested.”
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"Ole Miss Goes Bananas": Dear Parents, How's This For A $40K A Year Education?
What new college campus PC outrage could top ESPN's decision to remove an Asian announcer named Robert Lee from calling a UVA game? One might reasonably think, impossible! But campus snowflakes have done it again, and this time it's a single discarded banana peel which sent a college fraternity event hosting campus "leaders" into meltdown and general panic.
As one prominent columnist put it, "Ole Miss Goes Bananas" - we truly wish this was merely an over the top parody featured in The Onion, but unfortunately the triggered victims' tears are all to real. The Daily Mississippian broke the story this week, which quickly went viral:
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As one prominent columnist put it, "Ole Miss Goes Bananas" - we truly wish this was merely an over the top parody featured in The Onion, but unfortunately the triggered victims' tears are all to real. The Daily Mississippian broke the story this week, which quickly went viral:
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What if Lt. Floyd’s request was granted? Correctional officer killed in riot had earlier asked that several inmates be transferred
The results of the monthslong review of February’s uprising was released on Friday.
The review states:
“The incident that began on Feb. 1, would have likely occurred at some point somewhere within the JTVCC.
“However, the mix of inmates flowing down from maximum to medium security and inmates flowing up from medium towards maximum security in the C-Building and the circumstances giving rise to that mix, as more specifically set forth in the body of the report, hastened the inevitable.
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Merkel Heckled Twice In One Day as She Defends Migrant Policy
Germans hammer Merkel, call for her prosecution
German Chancellor Angela Merkel was heckled twice on Tuesday by protesters as she stubbornly defended her open-door refugee policy, one of the most contested issues in the country’s upcoming federal election.
Members of the anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany (AfD) party booed Merkel, the top candidate of the Christian Democratic Union Party (CDU) at an election campaign rally in the town of Bitterfeld-Wolfen, in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.
“Merkel must go away”, “Protect basic law from Merkel” and “I used to be CDU voter, today I want to see Mrs. Merkel in court,” were the welcoming chants from AfD supporters in Bitterfeld-Wolfen, the Leipziger Volkszeitung reported.
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German Chancellor Angela Merkel was heckled twice on Tuesday by protesters as she stubbornly defended her open-door refugee policy, one of the most contested issues in the country’s upcoming federal election.
Members of the anti-immigrant Alternative for Germany (AfD) party booed Merkel, the top candidate of the Christian Democratic Union Party (CDU) at an election campaign rally in the town of Bitterfeld-Wolfen, in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany.
“Merkel must go away”, “Protect basic law from Merkel” and “I used to be CDU voter, today I want to see Mrs. Merkel in court,” were the welcoming chants from AfD supporters in Bitterfeld-Wolfen, the Leipziger Volkszeitung reported.
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Politics of persuasion: Dozens of lobbyists now work the legislature for more than 200 groups
DOVER — Some say they harm the public interest, promoting large corporations at the expense of the common man.
Others say they are a necessary part of keeping government running effectively and provide an important service to help legislators stay informed.
Whatever your views on lobbyists, there’s no doubt the men and women representing companies, nonprofit groups and local governments are a fixture around legislative bodies.
Delaware’s General Assembly is no exception.
Data from the Public Integrity Commission lists 3,060 acts of lobbying undertaken by dozens of lobbyists representing more than 200 organizations in 2017 — and no one lobbied more than the Delaware Healthcare Association.
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Others say they are a necessary part of keeping government running effectively and provide an important service to help legislators stay informed.
Whatever your views on lobbyists, there’s no doubt the men and women representing companies, nonprofit groups and local governments are a fixture around legislative bodies.
Delaware’s General Assembly is no exception.
Data from the Public Integrity Commission lists 3,060 acts of lobbying undertaken by dozens of lobbyists representing more than 200 organizations in 2017 — and no one lobbied more than the Delaware Healthcare Association.
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Here's the Inauguration Day letter Obama left for Trump
WASHINGTON —During his final moments in the Oval Office, President Barack Obama folded into thirds a handwritten letter to Donald Trump, slid it into an envelope, and in neat capital letters addressed it to "Mr. President."
Now, the contents of that letter — the last direct communication between the 44th and 45th presidents — have emerged for the first time after CNN obtained a copy:
Dear Mr. President -More
Congratulations on a remarkable run. Millions have placed their hopes in you, and all of us, regardless of party, should hope for expanded prosperity and security during your tenure.
This is a unique office, without a clear blueprint for success, so I don't know that any advice from me will be particularly helpful. Still, let me offer a few reflections from the past 8 years.
White House Petition: Public Must Demand Release of Hillary's Records
Investigator warns rogue FBI is still protecting Clinton
The FBI is guarding records on Hillary Clinton, rejecting a Freedom of Information Act request by attorney Ty Clevenger, citing a “lack of public interest” as basis for denial, which has prompted the initiation of a White House petition to prove otherwise.
The petition can be found HERE and reads as follows:
“Compel The F.B.I. To Release All Records Pertaining To Hillary Clinton’s Personal Secret Server Email Investigation”
FBI records section chief David M. Hardy told investigator Ty Clevenger that he did sufficiently demonstrate that the public’s interest in disclosing (Hillary’s FBI records relating to her personal secret server email investigation) outweighed her personal privacy interests. This petition will show the Executive branch that there is sufficient public interest in releasing all FBI records pertaining to this case. Hillary Clinton was shielded by former Attorney General Loretta Lynch and FBI Director James Comey during the email “investigation”. Hillary has continued to echo Russian interference in the 2016 election and releasing these records should help clear the air on this matter. President Trump should compel the FBI to release to the public all records related to this investigation.
The petition has already garnered over 3,000 signatures in its first day, at the time of this writing, and must reach 100,000 by September 28th to be entered into consideration by the federal government.
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The FBI is guarding records on Hillary Clinton, rejecting a Freedom of Information Act request by attorney Ty Clevenger, citing a “lack of public interest” as basis for denial, which has prompted the initiation of a White House petition to prove otherwise.
The petition can be found HERE and reads as follows:
“Compel The F.B.I. To Release All Records Pertaining To Hillary Clinton’s Personal Secret Server Email Investigation”
FBI records section chief David M. Hardy told investigator Ty Clevenger that he did sufficiently demonstrate that the public’s interest in disclosing (Hillary’s FBI records relating to her personal secret server email investigation) outweighed her personal privacy interests. This petition will show the Executive branch that there is sufficient public interest in releasing all FBI records pertaining to this case. Hillary Clinton was shielded by former Attorney General Loretta Lynch and FBI Director James Comey during the email “investigation”. Hillary has continued to echo Russian interference in the 2016 election and releasing these records should help clear the air on this matter. President Trump should compel the FBI to release to the public all records related to this investigation.
The petition has already garnered over 3,000 signatures in its first day, at the time of this writing, and must reach 100,000 by September 28th to be entered into consideration by the federal government.
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First Legal Crop Of Medical Marijuana Growing In Md.
According to the Washington Post, at least two licensed companies: ForwardGro in Anne Arundel County and Curio Wellness in Baltimore County have marijuana plants growing.
Nearly 20 companies have been cleared to grow, process and sell the plant.
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This is it: The total destruction of Europe has just been decided upon
You better start to believe it, cause it’s clearly coming
It will now become much easier for ‘refugees’ from Africa to seek asylum in Europe, according to a new agreement between four western European countries and Chad and Niger. “Particularly vulnerable refugees” will now be able to apply for asylum in Europe directly in place in the African countries.
Four Western European countries have agreed on a new asylum policy, allowing African ‘refugees’ to seek asylum in European countries, directly on the African continent, reports AP.
It is the leaders of France, Germany, Italy and Spain, who jointly presented the news, together with EU Foreign Minister Federica Mogherini, after the representatives of the countries gathered in Paris to discuss integration, migration and defense within the EU. Representatives from other African countries also participated.
Several African leaders have asked for increased support from the EU, since their countries are used in many ways as transit areas for refugees and migrants heading for the European continent.
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It will now become much easier for ‘refugees’ from Africa to seek asylum in Europe, according to a new agreement between four western European countries and Chad and Niger. “Particularly vulnerable refugees” will now be able to apply for asylum in Europe directly in place in the African countries.
Four Western European countries have agreed on a new asylum policy, allowing African ‘refugees’ to seek asylum in European countries, directly on the African continent, reports AP.
It is the leaders of France, Germany, Italy and Spain, who jointly presented the news, together with EU Foreign Minister Federica Mogherini, after the representatives of the countries gathered in Paris to discuss integration, migration and defense within the EU. Representatives from other African countries also participated.
Several African leaders have asked for increased support from the EU, since their countries are used in many ways as transit areas for refugees and migrants heading for the European continent.
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Authorities In Ohio Put Up Drug Dealer’s Sneaker Collection For Sale
NEWARK — A Newark man went to prison in August without the dozens of pairs of collectible sneakers that he amassed, authorities say, as part of illegal drug-related activities.
Sixty-seven boxes of the confiscated footwear are now being sold to the highest bidder via a national online auction service.
The shoe brands include Adidas, Reebok, Puma, K-Swiss and others, range in size from 10 to 12, and are being sold in six different lots. Bids will be accepted through Sept. 15, said Pam Jones, deputy clerk for the Licking County commissioners.
It’s one of the bigger hauls of ill-gotten sneakers by the Central Ohio Drug Enforcement Task Force, which will use proceeds from the sale to clamp down on others dealing illegal narcotics.
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FBI, DHS Officially Classify Antifa Activities As "Domestic Terrorist Violence"
President Trump was crucified by the mainstream media a few weeks back after hosting an improvised press conference and saying there was "blame on both sides" for the violence in Charlottesville that resulted in the death of a counterprotester. The comments resulted in most of Trump's advisory councils being disbanded, as CEO's around the country pounced on the opportunity to distance themselves from the administration, and heightened calls from CNN for impeachment proceedings.
The problem is that while Trump's delivery probably could have been a bit more artful, the underlying message seems to be proving more accurate with each passing day and each new outbreak of Antifa violence.
As Politico points out today, previously unreported FBI and Department of Homeland Security studies found that "anarchist extremist" group like Antifa have been the "primary instigators of violence at public rallies" going back to at least April 2016when the reports were first published.
Federal authorities have been warning state and local officials since early 2016 that leftist extremists known as “antifa” had become increasingly confrontational and dangerous, so much so that the Department of Homeland Security formally classified their activities as “domestic terrorist violence,” according to interviews and confidential law enforcement documents obtained by POLITICO.
Since well before the Aug. 12 rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, turned deadly, DHS has been issuing warnings about the growing likelihood of lethal violence between the left-wing anarchists and right-wing white supremacist and nationalist groups.
Previously unreported documents disclose that by April 2016, authorities believed that “anarchist extremists” were the primary instigators of violence at public rallies against a range of targets. They were blamed by authorities for attacks on the police, government and political institutions, along with symbols of “the capitalist system,” racism, social injustice and fascism, according to a confidential 2016 joint intelligence assessment by DHS and the FBI.
The problem is that while Trump's delivery probably could have been a bit more artful, the underlying message seems to be proving more accurate with each passing day and each new outbreak of Antifa violence.
As Politico points out today, previously unreported FBI and Department of Homeland Security studies found that "anarchist extremist" group like Antifa have been the "primary instigators of violence at public rallies" going back to at least April 2016when the reports were first published.
Federal authorities have been warning state and local officials since early 2016 that leftist extremists known as “antifa” had become increasingly confrontational and dangerous, so much so that the Department of Homeland Security formally classified their activities as “domestic terrorist violence,” according to interviews and confidential law enforcement documents obtained by POLITICO.
Since well before the Aug. 12 rally in Charlottesville, Virginia, turned deadly, DHS has been issuing warnings about the growing likelihood of lethal violence between the left-wing anarchists and right-wing white supremacist and nationalist groups.
Previously unreported documents disclose that by April 2016, authorities believed that “anarchist extremists” were the primary instigators of violence at public rallies against a range of targets. They were blamed by authorities for attacks on the police, government and political institutions, along with symbols of “the capitalist system,” racism, social injustice and fascism, according to a confidential 2016 joint intelligence assessment by DHS and the FBI.
Not surprisingly, law enforcement officials noted that the rise in Antifa violence overlapped perfectly with Trump's campaign as they made appearances at rally after rally to incite chaos...all the while making it seem as if violent, racist Trump supporters were to blame.
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Clinton's Former Top Campaign Lawyer Behind New Hampshire Voter ID Lawsuit
George Soros poured millions into previous efforts from Clinton's lawyer against voter ID laws
The former top campaign lawyer for failed Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton is behind yet another lawsuit against a state's voter identification laws, the latest in a series of challenges that stem back to 2015.
Previous efforts launched against voter ID laws were backed by millions from liberal billionaire George Soros, who has a personal goal of enlarging the electorate by 10 million people by 2018, as documents leaked last year show.
The League of Woman Voters and three individuals are suing the state of New Hampshire in an attempt to block a law on voter registration that includes requirements such as providing a driver's license to prove an individual's primary residence is in the state and will be living in the state for a substantial time.
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The former top campaign lawyer for failed Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton is behind yet another lawsuit against a state's voter identification laws, the latest in a series of challenges that stem back to 2015.
Previous efforts launched against voter ID laws were backed by millions from liberal billionaire George Soros, who has a personal goal of enlarging the electorate by 10 million people by 2018, as documents leaked last year show.
The League of Woman Voters and three individuals are suing the state of New Hampshire in an attempt to block a law on voter registration that includes requirements such as providing a driver's license to prove an individual's primary residence is in the state and will be living in the state for a substantial time.
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Horses Need Prayers – Please Monitor Them Closely For River Rot
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Media Pushes Skewed DACA Polls, Hides Public’s Priorities
Media outlets are touting polls which supposedly show public support for the DACA amnesty — but careful polls show the public overwhelmingly prefers immigration policies which help their fellow Americans find good jobs.
The pro-DACA polls ask Americans “‘Do you want to be nice to people?’ and most Americans do want to be nice to people,” said Roy Beck, founder of NumbersUSA, an immigration reform group, whose polls ask Americans to rank their often-contradictory views. He said:
"We basically ask people to establish priorities. All public policy is about priorities. You can give people a list of 100 good things to do but you’ve got to have a priority. Our polls ask ‘Which is more important: Make sure that jobless Americans get the next jobs or continue to bring in high level of immigrants?"
These priority polls show roughly seven-to-one public support for Donald Trump’s argument that immigration reforms should aid American employees first, before aiding companies or foreign migrants.
More here
The pro-DACA polls ask Americans “‘Do you want to be nice to people?’ and most Americans do want to be nice to people,” said Roy Beck, founder of NumbersUSA, an immigration reform group, whose polls ask Americans to rank their often-contradictory views. He said:
"We basically ask people to establish priorities. All public policy is about priorities. You can give people a list of 100 good things to do but you’ve got to have a priority. Our polls ask ‘Which is more important: Make sure that jobless Americans get the next jobs or continue to bring in high level of immigrants?"
These priority polls show roughly seven-to-one public support for Donald Trump’s argument that immigration reforms should aid American employees first, before aiding companies or foreign migrants.
More here
Trump to scrap protection for 'Dreamers,' give Congress six months to fix
The president decided to delay enforcement of his decision to end the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals, or DACA, the two sources said on Sunday. One source cautioned that the president could change his mind.
The decision to give Congress half a year to come up with a an alternative, first reported by Politico, represents a compromise of sorts after top Republicans and business leaders asked Trump to keep the program.
DACA, an Obama administration policy, protects nearly 800,000 young men and women often called “Dreamers” from deportation and allows them to work legally.
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Report: Trump, Chafing Under Kelly's Control, Continues to Call Close Friends and Advisers
President Trump is chafing under Chief of Staff John Kelly’s control and is finding ways around it, according to a report.
Kelly has tried to control who the president talks to, but Trump is continuing to call business friends and outside advisers, including former chief strategist Steve Bannon, the report by the Washington Post said.
Trump calls Bannon and others from his personal phone when Kelly is not around, the report said.
“Donald Trump resists being handled,” Roger Stone, former Trump adviser and longtime confidant, told the Post.
“Nobody tells him who to see, who to listen to, what to read, what he can say,” he said. “General Kelly is trying to treat the president like a mushroom. Keeping him in the dark and feeding him s— is not going to work. Donald Trump is a free spirit.”
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Kelly has tried to control who the president talks to, but Trump is continuing to call business friends and outside advisers, including former chief strategist Steve Bannon, the report by the Washington Post said.
Trump calls Bannon and others from his personal phone when Kelly is not around, the report said.
“Donald Trump resists being handled,” Roger Stone, former Trump adviser and longtime confidant, told the Post.
“Nobody tells him who to see, who to listen to, what to read, what he can say,” he said. “General Kelly is trying to treat the president like a mushroom. Keeping him in the dark and feeding him s— is not going to work. Donald Trump is a free spirit.”
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The Next Shock For Texans: Insurance Often Doesn't Cover Floods
A complete assessment of the property damage wrought by Hurricane Harvey will take weeks, if not months, to deliver. But as the first disaster victims return to their homes, some are being forced to confront an unfortunate reality: Gaps in their homeowners’ insurance that will leave them on the hook for thousands of dollars’ worth of damages.
According to analytics firm CoreLogic, hundreds of thousands of affected residents in Texas and Louisiana aren’t insured for flooding damage. The firm estimated that residential flooding has caused $25 billion to $37 billion in damage spread across 70 counties in Texas and Louisiana hit by Harvey. Of that, about 70%—or $18 billion to $27 billion—is uninsured.
Scientists have confirmed that Harvey caused a "1-in-1,000-year flood" and that the total cost of property damage and lost productivitycould be as high as $190 billion.
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According to analytics firm CoreLogic, hundreds of thousands of affected residents in Texas and Louisiana aren’t insured for flooding damage. The firm estimated that residential flooding has caused $25 billion to $37 billion in damage spread across 70 counties in Texas and Louisiana hit by Harvey. Of that, about 70%—or $18 billion to $27 billion—is uninsured.
Scientists have confirmed that Harvey caused a "1-in-1,000-year flood" and that the total cost of property damage and lost productivitycould be as high as $190 billion.
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The case for a special counsel to investigate Hillary Clinton
America tried to let Hillary Clinton off the hook. Despite cries of “lock her up” during the campaign, most of the nation had little appetite for prosecuting her after the election, with even Donald Trump willing to give her a free pass.
“I don’t want to hurt the Clintons, I really don’t,” Trump told The New York Times two weeks after his victory. “She went through a lot and suffered greatly in many different ways.”
But the Clinton e-mail scandal, like Clinton herself, won’t go away. It remains a blot on the legacy of the Obama administration, the Justice Department and the FBI, and now comes fresh evidence that the investigation that cleared her was a total sham.
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“I don’t want to hurt the Clintons, I really don’t,” Trump told The New York Times two weeks after his victory. “She went through a lot and suffered greatly in many different ways.”
But the Clinton e-mail scandal, like Clinton herself, won’t go away. It remains a blot on the legacy of the Obama administration, the Justice Department and the FBI, and now comes fresh evidence that the investigation that cleared her was a total sham.
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Communist-style propaganda posters to greet CA students
The California Teachers Association (CTA) is launching a campaign to “actualize the definition of social justice” by encouraging its 325,000 members to plaster leftist propaganda posters “in your school, classroom, and beyond to create welcoming environments and safe zones.”
The posters, provided as part of the CTA’s “Social Justice Toolkit” for educators, profess union slogans and far-left political ideology as self-evident truths students are expected to absorb and adopt, while utilizing the style and imagery of communist propaganda flyers.
“Stand with me! Stand for … social justice for all,” one poster reads above a large raised fist.
Many of the CTA posters are available in both Spanish and English and are decorated in rainbow colors.
“We believe:” one of the posters declares, “Black Lives Matter, women’s rights are human rights, no human is illegal, science is real, love is love, kindness is everything.”
More here, comrades
The posters, provided as part of the CTA’s “Social Justice Toolkit” for educators, profess union slogans and far-left political ideology as self-evident truths students are expected to absorb and adopt, while utilizing the style and imagery of communist propaganda flyers.
“Stand with me! Stand for … social justice for all,” one poster reads above a large raised fist.
Many of the CTA posters are available in both Spanish and English and are decorated in rainbow colors.
“We believe:” one of the posters declares, “Black Lives Matter, women’s rights are human rights, no human is illegal, science is real, love is love, kindness is everything.”
More here, comrades
Jobs in services, computers, health care biggest gainers in Maryland since the Great Recession
A slowdown in manufacturing and construction has caused significant job losses in those sectors, while service-oriented and health-related jobs increased.
More lower-wage than middle-wage jobs are being created. And employers are struggling to fill vacancies requiring specialized skills and increasingly turning to automation.
“The recovery has been OK and created all these jobs, but the types of jobs haven’t been what they were prior to the recession,” said Daraius Irani, an economist who is vice president of Towson University’s division of innovation and applied research. “The number of jobs with low wages created post-recession far exceeds the number in middle-income that were created,” reflecting layoffs where jobs have not returned.
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Carlson: ‘Republicans have repeatedly shown their campaign pledges were lies’
Friday on Fox News Channel program, host Tucker Carlson criticized Republican members of the House and Senate that were opposed to the possible rollback of President Barack Obama’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) immigration policy.
The “Tucker Carlson Tonight” host argued that the same party that was able to benefit from President Donald Trump’s election win last fall is now opposing on many issues, including DACA.
That according to Carlson suggested some congressional Republican, including House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI), Rep. Mike Coffman (R-CO) and Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), had more of an “affinity” for Obama’s policies than for Trump’s policies.
Transcript as follows:
The “Tucker Carlson Tonight” host argued that the same party that was able to benefit from President Donald Trump’s election win last fall is now opposing on many issues, including DACA.
That according to Carlson suggested some congressional Republican, including House Speaker Paul Ryan (R-WI), Rep. Mike Coffman (R-CO) and Sens. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), had more of an “affinity” for Obama’s policies than for Trump’s policies.
Transcript as follows:
The Irrelevant Democrats
Chuck Schumer is in a spirited mood. "This is going to be one of the biggest fights of the next three, four months," the Senate minority leader said recently of the coming debate over tax cuts. "And Democrats are ready for it."
No doubt they are. But the relevant question is: Does their readiness even matter? Last month Mitch McConnell said he planned to bring taxes to the Senate floor under the budget reconciliation procedure. That would bypass the filibuster. The bill could pass by majority vote. No Democrats required.
And Republicans are unlikely to experience the defections over taxes that doomed them on health care. The health bill was a mess, a product of Republican confusion and infighting. There is no such uncertainty toward cutting taxes.
This is not to say that a cut is a done deal. Congressional Republicans may find a way to screw up. Fumbling the ball at the one-yard line is a specialty of theirs. But the prospect that GOP incompetence may rob the Trump administration of another legislative victory only underscores the fundamental point: Chuck Schumer's big words to the contrary notwithstanding, the Democrats are irrelevant to the power equation in Donald Trump's Washington.
That equation consists of five variables.. none is called (D).
No doubt they are. But the relevant question is: Does their readiness even matter? Last month Mitch McConnell said he planned to bring taxes to the Senate floor under the budget reconciliation procedure. That would bypass the filibuster. The bill could pass by majority vote. No Democrats required.
And Republicans are unlikely to experience the defections over taxes that doomed them on health care. The health bill was a mess, a product of Republican confusion and infighting. There is no such uncertainty toward cutting taxes.
This is not to say that a cut is a done deal. Congressional Republicans may find a way to screw up. Fumbling the ball at the one-yard line is a specialty of theirs. But the prospect that GOP incompetence may rob the Trump administration of another legislative victory only underscores the fundamental point: Chuck Schumer's big words to the contrary notwithstanding, the Democrats are irrelevant to the power equation in Donald Trump's Washington.
That equation consists of five variables.. none is called (D).
As Its Influence Wanes, Increasingly Militant MSM Promotes Violence and Censorship
Yes, the MSM has admitted they got 2016 exactly wrong and that they are out-of-touch with the average American. What truly terrifies the media about 2016, though, is something that has remained largely unspoken.
It is what Trump’s victory said so clearly about the MSM’s inability to influence public opinion and, by extension, the outcome of elections. What has also remained unspoken is the media’s desperate and dangerous reaction to this waning influence.
As a 25 year media-watcher, I have never seen anything close to the propaganda campaign the national media launched to defeat Donald Trump last year. It was 24/7, it was coordinated across every news outlet, it was all-hands-on-deck. And Trump still won. Which can only mean that the media’s influence has eroded to a point where, despite hurling every kitchen sink available, they suffered a humiliating loss last November.
Before I get into the grit of the nit, it is important to keep in mind that our media is nothing more than the communication branch of the Democrat Party. When you look at everything the media does — the lying, the campaigns of personal destruction, the fake news, the focus on stuff like Melania’s shoes — this explanation is the only one that makes sense. The media is a full-blown leftwing political operation run, for the most part, by former Democrat operatives like Jake Tapper, George Stephanopolous, and Chuck Todd, as well as those related to Democrat operatives..
More from John Nolte here..
It is what Trump’s victory said so clearly about the MSM’s inability to influence public opinion and, by extension, the outcome of elections. What has also remained unspoken is the media’s desperate and dangerous reaction to this waning influence.
As a 25 year media-watcher, I have never seen anything close to the propaganda campaign the national media launched to defeat Donald Trump last year. It was 24/7, it was coordinated across every news outlet, it was all-hands-on-deck. And Trump still won. Which can only mean that the media’s influence has eroded to a point where, despite hurling every kitchen sink available, they suffered a humiliating loss last November.
Before I get into the grit of the nit, it is important to keep in mind that our media is nothing more than the communication branch of the Democrat Party. When you look at everything the media does — the lying, the campaigns of personal destruction, the fake news, the focus on stuff like Melania’s shoes — this explanation is the only one that makes sense. The media is a full-blown leftwing political operation run, for the most part, by former Democrat operatives like Jake Tapper, George Stephanopolous, and Chuck Todd, as well as those related to Democrat operatives..
More from John Nolte here..
Sebastian Gorka: MAGA Agenda Will Not Be Stopped
Former Trump administration aide Sebastian Gorka told Newsmax TV on Thursday that while he may no longer be working inside the White House, "the 'Make America Great Again' agenda will not be stopped."
"It is much bigger than federal government," Gorka, 46, a former national security aide, told "The Joe Pags Show" in an interview. "The president is unstoppable.
"The bottom line is the scrappy band of the insurgents that helped the president win last November — when we came into the building on Jan. 20, it was a hostile takeover.
"There were very few of us and a lot of them," he said.
"In recent months," however, "they came to realization that to best support the agenda, we've got to get out of the bureaucratic infighting and we've got to to stop people getting boxed in into avenues that do not support the president.
"So, we have much more power, much more, many more tools on the outside."
More
"It is much bigger than federal government," Gorka, 46, a former national security aide, told "The Joe Pags Show" in an interview. "The president is unstoppable.
"The bottom line is the scrappy band of the insurgents that helped the president win last November — when we came into the building on Jan. 20, it was a hostile takeover.
"There were very few of us and a lot of them," he said.
"In recent months," however, "they came to realization that to best support the agenda, we've got to get out of the bureaucratic infighting and we've got to to stop people getting boxed in into avenues that do not support the president.
"So, we have much more power, much more, many more tools on the outside."
More
Condoleezza Rice Backs Trump's 'Bleak Picture' Strategy on NKorea
"I don't think any American president can tolerate that leader with the capacity to reach the United States," said Rice, referring to dictator Kim Jong Un, The Hill reports.
Rice, 62, who served in the George W. Bush administration, made her comments at the Library of Congress' Book Festival in Washington.
"What the administration is trying to do — and I support what they're trying to do — is they're painting a very bleak picture for the Chinese," she said. "That's the only country with any real leverage on the North Koreans."
Rice explained that Beijing remains reluctant to intervene out of fears North Korea could collapse and create a refugee crisis on their border, the Hill reports.
"We're getting pretty close to a president having to make a decision."
More here
Colleges facing backlash over left-wing demonstrations
Both the University of Missouri and Evergreen State College have been rocked by left-wing demonstrations, some of which administrators in both schools allowed. Now both have had to deal with falling enrollment and a decline in funds - and there are fears the situation could spread to other schools.
The defining issue is whether parents and donors see administrators as capable of containing clashes and responding firmly when protests get out of control, experts say.
Jacqueline Pfeffer Merrill of the American Council of Trustees and Alumni, a nonprofit that advocates for a variety of higher education issues, told Fox News that how a college handles freedom of expression matters greatly to prospective students, their parents and donors.
“When they look to what college to pick, parents and students are thinking of the largest investment their family is likely to make beyond the purchase of a home,” Pfeffer Merrill said. “Across the political spectrum, one of the most essential assets is [the opportunity] to be exposed to a wide range of views.”
If left-wing groups continue making demands and administrators acquiesce to them, other schools may suffer the same fate as Missouri and Evergreen, according to one expert.
“I don’t think we have seen the full extent of the fallout at the University of Missouri,” Sterling Beard, editor of The Leadership Institute's Campus Reform, told Fox News. “Violence is coming from Antifa groups on campus. Now they control administrators and shut out competing ideas they disagree with or don’t like.”
More
The defining issue is whether parents and donors see administrators as capable of containing clashes and responding firmly when protests get out of control, experts say.
Jacqueline Pfeffer Merrill of the American Council of Trustees and Alumni, a nonprofit that advocates for a variety of higher education issues, told Fox News that how a college handles freedom of expression matters greatly to prospective students, their parents and donors.
“When they look to what college to pick, parents and students are thinking of the largest investment their family is likely to make beyond the purchase of a home,” Pfeffer Merrill said. “Across the political spectrum, one of the most essential assets is [the opportunity] to be exposed to a wide range of views.”
If left-wing groups continue making demands and administrators acquiesce to them, other schools may suffer the same fate as Missouri and Evergreen, according to one expert.
“I don’t think we have seen the full extent of the fallout at the University of Missouri,” Sterling Beard, editor of The Leadership Institute's Campus Reform, told Fox News. “Violence is coming from Antifa groups on campus. Now they control administrators and shut out competing ideas they disagree with or don’t like.”
More
Breaking: US drafting sanctions to cut off NKorean trade
U.S. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin says he is putting together new sanctions seeking to cut off trade with North Korea after it detonated a thermonuclear device in its sixth and most powerful nuclear test.
Speaking on “Fox News Sunday,” Mnuchin described Pyongyang’s behavior as “completely unacceptable.”
Mnuchin says the sanctions package being drafted for President Donald Trump’s consideration will make clear that if countries want to do business with the U.S., they will have to cut off North Korea economically.
More updates here
Speaking on “Fox News Sunday,” Mnuchin described Pyongyang’s behavior as “completely unacceptable.”
Mnuchin says the sanctions package being drafted for President Donald Trump’s consideration will make clear that if countries want to do business with the U.S., they will have to cut off North Korea economically.
More updates here
North Korea Claims It Has Developed Advanced Hydrogen Bomb, EMP
Shortly after the news that North Korea announced it was in possession of an "advanced Hydrogen bomb", to which we said that if "the bomb appears to be authentic, it would confirm that the North is preparing for its most provocative action yet: its sixth nuclear test, which would force Trump to respond, having vowed never to allow North Korea to become a nuclear power with offensive capabilities", this is precisely what happened, when on Sunday morning, North Korea conducted what appears its sixth nuclear test, triggering a tremor 10 times as powerful as that from its test a year ago and just hours after it showed off what it called a hydrogen bomb capable of being mounted on a long-range missile.
The U.S. Geological Survey said it had recorded a M6.3 earthquake that it described as a “possible explosion” in northeastern North Korea—near the site of Pyongyang’s past nuclear tests—at a depth of zero kilometers at noon Pyongyang time. The agency initially assessed it to be a magnitude-5.1 temblor.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff assumed North Korea conducted its sixth nuclear test, after an artificial earthquake was detected near the site of the North’s previous nuclear tests earlier today. Additionally, the Korea Meteorological Administration said that it had detected a revised magnitude-5.7 earthquake in the same area of North Korea, in what it described as likely being a “man-made” earthquake.
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The U.S. Geological Survey said it had recorded a M6.3 earthquake that it described as a “possible explosion” in northeastern North Korea—near the site of Pyongyang’s past nuclear tests—at a depth of zero kilometers at noon Pyongyang time. The agency initially assessed it to be a magnitude-5.1 temblor.
South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff assumed North Korea conducted its sixth nuclear test, after an artificial earthquake was detected near the site of the North’s previous nuclear tests earlier today. Additionally, the Korea Meteorological Administration said that it had detected a revised magnitude-5.7 earthquake in the same area of North Korea, in what it described as likely being a “man-made” earthquake.
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Public School Teachers Behind Violent Antifa Group
Public school teachers are behind a leading far-left militant group that is part of the Antifa network that federal officials say is committing “domestic terrorist violence.”
By Any Means Necessary, which has played a key role in riots in Berkeley, Sacramento and elsewhere, has dozens of public school teachers among its members, including among its most prominent leaders.
The FBI and Department of Homeland Security began paying closer attention to Antifa groups in general after BAMN and other extremists started a riot and attacked marchers at a white nationalist rally in Sacramento last July, Politico reported on Friday. The Sacramento violence left at least 10 people hospitalized, several of whom had knife wounds.
One of BAMN’s most prominent organizers is Yvette Felarca, a Berkeley middle school teacher and pro-violence militant. Felarca currently faces charges of inciting a riot for her role in the Sacramento violence.
More here
By Any Means Necessary, which has played a key role in riots in Berkeley, Sacramento and elsewhere, has dozens of public school teachers among its members, including among its most prominent leaders.
The FBI and Department of Homeland Security began paying closer attention to Antifa groups in general after BAMN and other extremists started a riot and attacked marchers at a white nationalist rally in Sacramento last July, Politico reported on Friday. The Sacramento violence left at least 10 people hospitalized, several of whom had knife wounds.
One of BAMN’s most prominent organizers is Yvette Felarca, a Berkeley middle school teacher and pro-violence militant. Felarca currently faces charges of inciting a riot for her role in the Sacramento violence.
More here
A Comment Worthy Of A Post 9-4-17
PUBLISHERS NOTES: First of all, I have been 100% accurate on this incident. So, you want details, I'll give you details. A Firefighter was sitting on the front bumper of the fire truck as it was moving. His feet were dangling when they fire truck hit a dip in the road. The Firefighter's rubber boots snagged on the pavement, pulling him under the fire truck and ultimately he was not just run over, he was also dragged for quite a ways.
As for the Firefighter's condition, thank God he is stable but it will be a long road ahead of him, recovery wise.
The information I have provided are the facts. Many firefighters have come on here calling me a liar, claiming he was not on the front bumper. They have even stated, how could he have been run over when the fire truck backed up over him. You see, some of you are just plain Idiots and have no clue what you are talking about, hence why I rejected so many comments. I told you people yesterday, I have a witness who saw what happened. Even Jake Day is keeping hush about what happened because it was just plain stupidity.
The ONLY people spreading rumors without facts are the Firefighters, not SBYNEWS.
Los Angeles Changes 'Columbus Day' To 'Indigenous Peoples Day'
Trump was obliterated by the mainstream media a few weeks back when he spoke out against decisions to dismantle confederate statues all around the country. While he was branded a racist for his comments, his point was that the logical conclusion of the Left's crusade was the complete destruction of over 500 years worth of history since the Europeans first arrived in the 'New World'.
As it turns, it looks increasingly like Trump was absolutely right. As just the latest example of the wave of insanity sweeping the nation, the Los Angeles Times points out today that the city of Los Angeles has officially decided to scrap Columbus Day and instead replace it with "Indigenous People Day"... you know, because it's just about time that everyone stop celebrating the "state-sponsored celebration of genocide of indigenous peoples."
The Los Angeles City Council voted Wednesday to eliminate Columbus Day from the city calendar, siding with activists who view the explorer as a symbol of genocide for native peoples in North America and elsewhere.
Over the objections of Italian American civic groups, the council made the second Monday in October a day in L.A. to commemorate “indigenous, aboriginal and native people.” It replaces a holiday that served as a touchstone for Italian Americans, marking the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Caribbean.
Italian Americans voiced anguish over the proposal, telling council members it would erase a portion of their heritage. Some said they supported the creation of Indigenous Peoples Day as long as it is held on a different date.
More
As it turns, it looks increasingly like Trump was absolutely right. As just the latest example of the wave of insanity sweeping the nation, the Los Angeles Times points out today that the city of Los Angeles has officially decided to scrap Columbus Day and instead replace it with "Indigenous People Day"... you know, because it's just about time that everyone stop celebrating the "state-sponsored celebration of genocide of indigenous peoples."
The Los Angeles City Council voted Wednesday to eliminate Columbus Day from the city calendar, siding with activists who view the explorer as a symbol of genocide for native peoples in North America and elsewhere.
Over the objections of Italian American civic groups, the council made the second Monday in October a day in L.A. to commemorate “indigenous, aboriginal and native people.” It replaces a holiday that served as a touchstone for Italian Americans, marking the arrival of Christopher Columbus in the Caribbean.
Italian Americans voiced anguish over the proposal, telling council members it would erase a portion of their heritage. Some said they supported the creation of Indigenous Peoples Day as long as it is held on a different date.
More
1900 Great Galveston hurricane in Texas pictured
Devastating images show houses flattened and rescuers digging for bodies following the Great Galveston Hurricane.
The Category 4 hurricane, with winds of up to 145 mph, made landfall on September 8, 1900 killing at least 8,000 of its 37,000 residents and destroying more than 3,600 buildings.
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Could you be a Wells Fargo account victim? 5 things to do
Trust issues can ruin any relationship, including the one you have with your bank. And when a financial institution makes too many mistakes, you may be left to clean up the mess.
Wells Fargo faces numerous accusations its employees have engaged in misconduct against customers. The long list includes: opening bogus bank and credit card accounts, charging borrowers for unnecessary auto insurance and modifying mortgages without approval.
Now, two federal regulators and the San Francisco Federal Reserve are reportedly looking at the bank’s guaranteed auto protection insurance program. Thousands of consumers who paid off loans in advance may not have received refunds they were owed.
More
Wells Fargo faces numerous accusations its employees have engaged in misconduct against customers. The long list includes: opening bogus bank and credit card accounts, charging borrowers for unnecessary auto insurance and modifying mortgages without approval.
Now, two federal regulators and the San Francisco Federal Reserve are reportedly looking at the bank’s guaranteed auto protection insurance program. Thousands of consumers who paid off loans in advance may not have received refunds they were owed.
More
http://www.foxbusiness.com/features/2017/09/02/could-be-wells-fargo-account-victim-5-things-to-do.html
New Pneumonia In Chinese Hospitals Is Drug-Resistant, Deadly And Contagious : Goats and Soda
In the past few years, there have been so many "superbugs" appearing in hospitals around the world that we here at Goats and Soda haven't had the time or resources to report on all of them.
But a new type of pneumonia emerging in China seems so important that we dropped what we were doing to write about it.
Doctors in Hangzhou in southeastern China have detected a a type of pneumonia that is both highly drug-resistant and very deadly. It also spreads easily.
The bacterium — a type of Klebsiella pneumoniae — killed five people in an intensive care unit in Hangzhou in 2016, researchers reported Tuesday in the journal Lancet Infectious Diseases.
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But a new type of pneumonia emerging in China seems so important that we dropped what we were doing to write about it.
Doctors in Hangzhou in southeastern China have detected a a type of pneumonia that is both highly drug-resistant and very deadly. It also spreads easily.
The bacterium — a type of Klebsiella pneumoniae — killed five people in an intensive care unit in Hangzhou in 2016, researchers reported Tuesday in the journal Lancet Infectious Diseases.
More
Suspected serial killer who 'hunted white men' arrested
A Missouri man has been arrested on suspicion of being the serial killer who stalked and murdered five middle-aged men in Kansas City.
Fredrick Demond Scott, 22, is believed to have shot dead the five men - three in the back of the head - between August 19, 2016, and August 13 this year.
The first four victims were killed in secluded areas, mostly on or near hiking and biking trails in the area.
But Scott became over-confident and was captured after claiming his fifth and final victim in broad daylight on a city street then getting on a bus, police told The Kansas City Star.
When being questioned, Scott - whose possible motive is unclear - allegedly boasted of his stealthiness, saying of the victims: 'They didn't see it coming.'
More/Video
Fredrick Demond Scott, 22, is believed to have shot dead the five men - three in the back of the head - between August 19, 2016, and August 13 this year.
The first four victims were killed in secluded areas, mostly on or near hiking and biking trails in the area.
But Scott became over-confident and was captured after claiming his fifth and final victim in broad daylight on a city street then getting on a bus, police told The Kansas City Star.
When being questioned, Scott - whose possible motive is unclear - allegedly boasted of his stealthiness, saying of the victims: 'They didn't see it coming.'
More/Video
Native American canoe from 1700s preserved at Maine museum
BRUNSWICK, Maine – One of the oldest-known Native American birch-bark canoes will go on display at a Maine historical society museum, possibly as early as this fall, after spending three decades in a barn.
Carbon dating by the Pejepscot Historical Society in Brunswick shows the Wabanaki canoe was likely made sometime between 1729 and 1789. Museum records date the canoe to the mid 1700s.
The Wabanaki Confederacy is a group of Native American nations who lived primarily in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts and parts of Atlantic Canada.
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Carbon dating by the Pejepscot Historical Society in Brunswick shows the Wabanaki canoe was likely made sometime between 1729 and 1789. Museum records date the canoe to the mid 1700s.
The Wabanaki Confederacy is a group of Native American nations who lived primarily in Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts and parts of Atlantic Canada.
More
http://www.foxnews.com/science/2017/09/02/native-american-canoe-from-1700s-preserved-at-maine-museum.html
Trump gives Pay Raises to Military, Federal Workers
President Trump has used his executive authority to give uniformed service members and federal civilian employees a pay raise next year, notifying Congress of the move in two letters Thursday.
In line with his budget proposal, Mr. Trump designated a 2.1 percent pay hike for members of the military and 1.9 percent for the federal civilian workers.
The pay increases take effect Jan. 1.
“I strongly support our men and women in uniform, who are the greatest fighting force in the world and the guardians of American freedom. As our country continues to recover from serious economic conditions affecting the general welfare, we must work to rebuild our military’s readiness and capabilities,” Mr. Trump said of the military raises in the letter to congressional leaders.
The size of the rase for the government’s civilian employees was less than what was called for under current law, which would have doled out a 26.16 percent increase in locality pay.
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In line with his budget proposal, Mr. Trump designated a 2.1 percent pay hike for members of the military and 1.9 percent for the federal civilian workers.
The pay increases take effect Jan. 1.
“I strongly support our men and women in uniform, who are the greatest fighting force in the world and the guardians of American freedom. As our country continues to recover from serious economic conditions affecting the general welfare, we must work to rebuild our military’s readiness and capabilities,” Mr. Trump said of the military raises in the letter to congressional leaders.
The size of the rase for the government’s civilian employees was less than what was called for under current law, which would have doled out a 26.16 percent increase in locality pay.
More
Update On Girl Struck By Vehicle In Ocean City Maryland
The Slovakian gal, Veronika, that was hit by the car last Wednesday in OC while she was riding her bike (along with her boyfriend, Matt), never regained consciousness and has since passed away. Her mom and pastor came from Slovakia and arranged to have her organs donated and have her body transferred back to Slovakia.
Trump Returns To Texas, Asks Congress For $7.85 Billion In Harvey Relief
The Trump administration is asking Congress for nearly $8 billion in Hurricane Harvey aid as the search-and-rescue phase is slowly giving way to recovery more than a week after the storm slammed into southeastern Texas.
Trump visits Texas and Louisiana
President Trump made his second trip to the region Saturday, beginning in Houston with a visit to the NRG Center, which is serving as a shelter for Harvey victims.
The president and first lady Melania Trump shook hands, hugged and took selfies with storm victims. Of the interactions with families, Trump said, "We saw a lot of happiness. It's been really nice," according to the pool report. "As tough as this was, it's been a wonderful thing, I think even for the country to watch it and for the world to watch."
More
Trump visits Texas and Louisiana
President Trump made his second trip to the region Saturday, beginning in Houston with a visit to the NRG Center, which is serving as a shelter for Harvey victims.
The president and first lady Melania Trump shook hands, hugged and took selfies with storm victims. Of the interactions with families, Trump said, "We saw a lot of happiness. It's been really nice," according to the pool report. "As tough as this was, it's been a wonderful thing, I think even for the country to watch it and for the world to watch."
More
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