President Obama speaks Monday on health care reform and women’s achievements

Obama to push health care reform, honor women
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama wades back into the health care debate as he travels to Philadelphia to discuss his overhaul plans.
When he returns later Monday to Washington, Obama will take time out to congratulate Alabama’s Bowl Championship Series national champion football team, which went undefeated …. Original article  : President Obama speaks Monday on health care reform and women’s achievements.

More than 200 killed after religious violence flares again in central Nigeria; Hundreds flee

Nigeria: More than 200 dead in religious violence

JOS, Nigeria – Rioters armed with machetes slaughtered more than 200 people including a 4-day-old infant, residents said, less than two months after sectarian violence in the volatile region left more than 300 dead.
The violence in three mostly Christian villages Sunday appeared to be reprisal attacks following the …. Read the original article  : More than 200 killed after religious violence flares again in central Nigeria; Hundreds flee.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates in Afghanistan as NATO carries out counterinsurgency plan

Gates in Afghanistan; meets with military leaders
KABUL – U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates arrived in Afghanistan early Monday as coalition forces continue to restore order in the town of Marjah, the first major test of the U.S. and NATO counterinsurgency strategy since President Barack Obama ordered 30,000 new American troops to blunt the … Read more : Defense Secretary Robert Gates in Afghanistan as NATO carries out counterinsurgency plan.

Head of Iraq election commission says results to historic vote expected in days

Iraq election commision head says results in days
BAGHDAD – The results of Iraq’s pivotal parliamentary elections will be released within days, the head of the country’s election commission said Monday.
The announcement came a day after Iraqis defied a wave of insurgent attacks and voted in key balloting that will determine whether they can … Original source on Gaea Times at : Head of Iraq election commission says results to historic vote expected in days.

PM meets Congress leaders, discusses floor strategy for Women’s Bill passage

NEW DELHI – The Prime Minister, Dr. Manmohan Singh, is attending a Congress party meeting to formulate the floor strategy for ensuring the passage of the Women’s Reservation Bill, which has been held up for more than a decade.
The meeting is taking …. Original article  : PM meets Congress leaders, discusses floor strategy for Women’s Bill passage.

Women’s Reservation Bill: SP, RJD withdraw support to UPA Govt

NEW DELHI – The Samajwadi Party (SP) and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) on Monday decided to withdraw support to the UPA Government over the Women’s Reservation Bill.
Strongly opposing the Bill, SP chief Mulayam Singh Yadav and RJD Supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav announced their decision … Original article on : Women’s Reservation Bill: SP, RJD withdraw support to UPA Govt.

Racy paintings of Sarah Brown, Samantha Cameron to go on public display

LONDON – Controversial paintings depicting the wives of British Prime Minister Gordon Brown and the Leader of the Opposition David Cameron in a raunchy pose are set to go on public display in Glasgow.

Artist Laetitia Guilbaud is said to have courted trouble after drawing … Read more : Racy paintings of Sarah Brown, Samantha Cameron to go on public display.

China to equalize city-rural representation in legislature as urbanization gathers pace

China looks to narrow city-rural development gap
BEIJING – China is boosting representation for its dwindling rural population in the national legislature as part of a new push to narrow the development gap between city and countryside.
Once an overwhelmingly rural society, China is urbanizing at an accelerating rate, with 43 percent, or 560 million …. Original article  : China to equalize city-rural representation in legislature as urbanization gathers pace.

Scouting for Hitler: Secret papers show Britain feared teenage Nazi ’spyclists’ before WWII

MI5 papers show Britain feared Nazi ’spyclists’

LONDON – Clouds of war were gathering over Europe, and the English police officer was concerned. A group of black-clad Germans had been spotted heading for London – by bicycle.
Newly declassified British intelligence files reveal the ripples of alarm that spread through the country as Hitler Youth cyclists toured … Original article on : Scouting for Hitler: Secret papers show Britain feared teenage Nazi ’spyclists’ before WWII.

Defense Secretary Robert Gates lands in Afghanistan as NATO carries out counterinsurgency plan

US defense chief lands in Afghanistan for meetings
KABUL – U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates arrived in Afghanistan early Monday as coalition forces continue to restore order in the town of Marjah, the first major test of the U.S. and NATO counterinsurgency strategy since President Barack Obama ordered 30,000 new … Read more : Defense Secretary Robert Gates lands in Afghanistan as NATO carries out counterinsurgency plan.

Oregon state treasurer, former lawmaker Ben Westlund dies at 60 after battle with lung cancer

Oregon state treasurer Westlund dies at 60

PORTLAND, Ore. – Oregon state treasurer Ben Westlund, who helped stabilize the Oregon college savings plan after one of its managers posted big losses, has died after a long battle with lung cancer. He was 60.
Westlund served 12 years in the Oregon Legislature, first as a Republican and then … Original source on Gaea Times at : Oregon state treasurer, former lawmaker Ben Westlund dies at 60 after battle with lung cancer.

‘Precious’ co-star Mo’Nique, ‘Basterds’ co-star Waltz win supporting-acting Oscars

Mo’Nique, Waltz win supporting-acting Oscars

LOS ANGELES – Villainous roles have snatched the supporting-acting prizes at the Academy Awards: “Precious” co-star Mo’Nique as a loathsome mother and “Inglourious Basterds” co-star Christoph Waltz as a sociable Nazi fiend.
With the industry’s top trophy in hand, both performers capped remarkable years, Mo’Nique startling fans with dramatic depths previously unsuspected …. Original article  : ‘Precious’ co-star Mo’Nique, ‘Basterds’ co-star Waltz win supporting-acting Oscars.

Waltz’s gleefully evil Nazi in ‘Inglourious Basterds’ wins supporting actor Oscar

Waltz goes from Hollywood unknown to Oscar winner

LOS ANGELES – Christoph Waltz was a veteran TV and stage actor in Europe who was virtually unknown in Hollywood. Then he met Quentin Tarantino.
Waltz, 53, was honored as best supporting actor at Sunday’s Academy Awards for his portrayal of a World War II Nazi with a gleeful … Original article on : Waltz’s gleefully evil Nazi in ‘Inglourious Basterds’ wins supporting actor Oscar.

‘Inglourious Basterds’ co-star Waltz wins supporting-actor Oscar

‘Basterds’ star Waltz wins supporting-actor Oscar

LOS ANGELES – Christoph Waltz won the supporting-actor Academy Award on Sunday for his role as a sociable fiend of a Nazi in “Inglourious Basterds,” while the blockbuster “Up” was named best animated feature.
The first award of Oscar night went to Austrian-born Waltz, a veteran stage and television actor in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Inglourious Basterds’ co-star Waltz wins supporting-actor Oscar.

Graham says he’ll press his GOP colleagues to back Guantanamo closing if Obama backs tribunals

GOP senator urges Obama to shift on terror trials
WASHINGTON – A Republican senator is offering the White House a deal on terror trials.
Sen. Lindsey Graham says that if the president agrees to try alleged Sept. 11 mastermind Khalid Sheik Mohammed (HAH’-leed shayk moh-HAH’-med) and four accused henchmen in military tribunals, he will press … Original source on Gaea Times at : Graham says he’ll press his GOP colleagues to back Guantanamo closing if Obama backs tribunals.

Elders of town just seized from Taliban give Afghan president an earful on corruption, NATO

Karzai gets an earful in town seized from Taliban
MARJAH, Afghanistan – Elders in a former Taliban stronghold berated and challenged Afghanistan’s president Sunday, delivering a litany of complaints about government corruption and NATO’s military operations on the Afghan leader’s first visit to Marjah.
President Hamid Karzai said that’s …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Dozens killed in clashes between Taliban, another Islamist militia; fighters defect to gov’t

Afghan militants battle Taliban, defect to gov’t

KABUL – Dozens of fighters died in armed clashes between the Taliban and another Islamist group in northeastern Afghanistan, and some militants defected to Afghan government forces Sunday as battles raged, officials said.
Fighters for the Hezb-e-Islami militia, loyal to regional warlord Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, battled the Taliban with rocket-propelled grenades … Original source on Gaea Times at : Dozens killed in clashes between Taliban, another Islamist militia; fighters defect to gov’t.

Deve Gowda heads farmers to Delhi rally

BANGALORE – Hundreds of farmers from Karnataka under the leadership of former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda boarded the train to New Delhi from Bangalore city railway station on Sunday evening.
Deve Gowda has organised a two-day protest rally in the national capital starting from Wednesday against the land acquisition for the Bangalore-Mysore …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Deve Gowda heads farmers to Delhi rally.

BSP opposes Women Reservation Bill seeking quota within quota for SC/ST

LUCKNOW – Bahujan Samaj Party on Sunday evening opposed the Women Reservation Bill in its present form by seeking inclusion of quota for Schedule Caste, Schedule Tribe women in it.
“Bill must be amended to include SC/ST women’s quota in itf the Bill is amended to include our demands, we will vote for it. …. Source article  : BSP opposes Women Reservation Bill seeking quota within quota for SC/ST.

Top Senate Republican says GOP’s fundraising appeal based on fear of Obama is not helpful

McConnell doesn’t like GOP pitch based on fear
WASHINGTON – The Senate’s top Republican says he didn’t like a recent GOP appeal to party donors that was based on stoking fear and negative feelings toward President Barack Obama and other Democrats.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky says he doesn’t understand why anyone thought …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Top Senate Republican says GOP’s fundraising appeal based on fear of Obama is not helpful.

Togo opposition followers march in 4th day of rising tensions since disputed presidential vote

Togo protesters march over disputed election

LOME, Togo – Riot police fired tear gas at more than 1,000 opposition protesters who gathered in the capital Tuesday, the fourth day of rising tensions since the son of the former dictator was announced victorious in a disputed presidential election.
Tuesday’s march was banned by the government but top opposition …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Togo opposition followers march in 4th day of rising tensions since disputed presidential vote.

Iran says President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad will visit Afghanistan on Wednesday

Iranian president to visit Afghanistan
TEHRAN, Iran – Iran says President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad will visit Afghanistan on Wednesday.

Tuesday’s announcement coincided with a visit to Kandahar by U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates. Gates has accused Tehran of “playing a double game” in Afghanistan by trying to woo the Afghan government and undermining U.S. and NATO efforts by …. Source  : Iran says President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad will visit Afghanistan on Wednesday.

Gates praises troops in hard-hit battle unit in southern Afghanistan

Gates praises troops in southern Afghanistan

FORWARD OPERATING BASE FRONTENAC, Afghanistan – U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates told a hard-hit battle unit Tuesday that its heavy losses have helped the U.S. begin to push back against the Taliban in southern Afghanistan.
Gates visited a small, remote outpost 30 miles north of Kandahar, where the Fort Lewis, Washington-based … Read more »»».

Gates meets with troops fighting Taliban in southern Afghanistan

Gates meets with troops in southern Afghanistan

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates got a closer view of the Afghanistan war Tuesday, with a visit to troops fighting the Taliban in the country’s rugged south.
Gates flew to Kandahar early Tuesday for meetings with U.S. and British generals overseeing the current military campaign in Marjah.
Gates … Read : Gates meets with troops fighting Taliban in southern Afghanistan.

Mass. human rights doctors group faults Bangladesh on treatment of Burmese refugees

Mass. rights group faults Bangladesh on refugees

BOSTON – Tens of thousands of Burmese refugees are being forced into makeshift camps in Bangladesh and face widespread starvation unless they receive more humanitarian aid, according to an international human rights organization’s report released Tuesday.
The Physicians for Human Rights, based in Massachusetts, faulted Bangladesh authorities for “arbitrary arrests, …. Read the original article  : Mass. human rights doctors group faults Bangladesh on treatment of Burmese refugees.

CAPITAL CULTURE: Palin straddles increasingly blurred worlds of politics, media, celebrity

CAPITAL CULTURE: Palin candidate, pundit, celeb?
NEW YORK – For more than a year, Sarah Palin has been one of the most famous political and cultural figures in the country. Even by that standard, though, last week was an extraordinary one.
On Thursday came word that the former Alaska governor was working on a TV …. Source  : CAPITAL CULTURE: Palin straddles increasingly blurred worlds of politics, media, celebrity.

PM to meet Lalu, Mulayam, Sharad over Women Reservation Bill

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh will meet Samajwadi Party leader Mulayam Singh Yadav, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad and Janata Dal-United leader Sharad Yadav today over the Women’s Reservation Bill.
Meanwhile, the reported all-party meet is unlikely to be held today.
The decision …. Source article  : PM to meet Lalu, Mulayam, Sharad over Women Reservation Bill.

Stupak, D-Mich., voices new optimism about resolving abortion dispute in health bill debate

Stupak: Health bill abortion fight can be resolved
TAWAS CITY, Mich. – Prospects are good for resolving a dispute over abortion that has led some House Democrats to threaten to withhold support of President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul, a key Michigan Democrat said Monday.
Rep. Bart Stupak said he expects to resume talks with … Read more >>.

Pennsylvania Democrats pick ex-Murtha aide Mark Critz as nominee for special election

Pa. Dems pick Critz as nominee to fill Murtha seat

HARRISBURG, Pa. – Pennsylvania Democrats have chosen former congressional aide Mark Critz as the nominee for a special election to fill the U.S. House seat once held by late Rep. John Murtha.
Party officials cite Critz’s weekend victory in a nonbinding straw poll by local party members. … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Pennsylvania Democrats pick ex-Murtha aide Mark Critz as nominee for special election.

Suburban NY mayor says ‘SNL’ got her city wrong _ it’s not a hellhole, and it’s not upstate

Suburban NY mayor says ‘SNL’ got her city wrong

PEEKSKILL, N.Y. – A suburban New York mayor wants to correct the record after “Saturday Night Live” made fun of her city.
First, Peekskill isn’t upstate. Second, it’s not a hellhole.
The city of 24,000 residents was mentioned on the NBC comedy show Feb. 27. An actor playing Gov. … Read more >>>.

Tenn. federal judge refuses to throw out lawsuits by patients claiming jaw damage

Tenn. federal judge won’t dismiss jaw injury cases

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A federal judge in Nashville has refused to dismiss 40 lawsuits against a Swedish-based pharmaceutical company accused of failing to warn patients that two of its drugs can cause severe deterioration of the jaw.
U.S. District Judge Todd Campbell’s ruling last week is the latest blow … Read more »».

How did the little movie best the huge one? Theories on how ‘Hurt Locker’ beat ‘Avatar’

Oscar’s big question: How did David slay Goliath?

NEW YORK – For Hollywood pundits, industry folk and Oscar fans still paying attention on Monday, a major question remained: How did David slay Goliath?
For as much as “The Hurt Locker” was the critics’ darling, it had three major strikes against it in its battle against the mighty …. Source  : How did the little movie best the huge one? Theories on how ‘Hurt Locker’ beat ‘Avatar’.

Remarks by the President and the First Lady at International Women’s Day Reception

4:52 P.M. EST
MRS. OBAMA:  Thank you so much.  So I get to speak first while he stands and watches.  I love this.  (Laughter.)  Look at me adoringly.  (Laughter.)
THE PRESIDENT:  I can do that.
MRS. OBAMA:  With sincerity.  (Laughter.)  Anyway.
I’m thrilled to see everybody here.  Welcome, welcome.  This is a wonderful event as we celebrate … Read more : Remarks by the President and the First Lady at International Women’s Day Reception.

Massa says health care conspiracy by House Democrats is the reason behind his resignation

Massa blames his resignation on health care debate

ROCHESTER, N.Y. – New York Rep. Eric Massa is blaming his resignation on a conspiracy by House Democratic leaders to force him out before a crucial vote on health care.
Massa was one of 39 Democrats who voted against an earlier House version of the health care bill in …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Massa says health care conspiracy by House Democrats is the reason behind his resignation.

Group Friends of Animals calls for tourism boycott of Alaska over wolf decision

Animal rights’ group urges Alaska tourism boycott

JUNEAU, Alaska – An animal rights’ group is calling for a tourism boycott of Alaska over a recent decision to remove buffer zones for wolf trapping near Denali National Park.
Friends of Animals’ President Priscilla Feral says last week’s decision by a divided Alaska Board of Game lacked any sense …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Group Friends of Animals calls for tourism boycott of Alaska over wolf decision.

President Obama Announces Another Key Administration Post, 3/8/10

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individual to a key administration post:
Philip D. Moeller, Commissioner, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
President Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individual to a key administration post:
Philip D. Moeller, Nominee for Commissioner, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Commissioner Philip D. Moeller was …. Original article  : President Obama Announces Another Key Administration Post, 3/8/10.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 3/8/10

NOMINATIONS SENT TO THE SENATE:
Major General Robert A. Harding, United States Army (Retired), of Virginia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security, vice Edmund S. Hawley, resigned.

David K. Mineta, of California, to be Deputy Director for Demand Reduction, Office of National Drug Control Policy, vice Bertha K. Madras.
… Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 3/8/10.

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 3/8/10

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key administration posts:
Cheryl A. LaFleur, Commissioner, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Lawrence J. Pijeaux, Jr., Member, National Museum and Library Sciences Board
President Obama said, “I am grateful that these distinguished individuals have chosen to join my administration as we work … Read more »».

Remarks by President Obama and President Funes of El Salvador after Meeting

Oval Office
3:56 P.M. EST
PRESIDENT OBAMA:  Hello, everybody.  I want to welcome President Funes and the First Lady of El Salvador to the United States.  Bienvenido.  We are very grateful and honored by his visit.  I’ve been following the President since his election nine months ago and have been very favorably impressed by the steps that … Read : Remarks by President Obama and President Funes of El Salvador after Meeting.

AP Source: Health care legislation to include new provision affecting part-time workers

AP Source: Health bill to affect part-time workers
WASHINGTON – A Democratic aide says a new provision in the health care bill will require businesses to count part-time workers when calculating penalties for failing to provide coverage.
The bill originally passed by the Senate only penalized businesses for full-time workers who weren’t covered. The Senate … Read more >>>.

Women Reservation Bill Passed

NEW DELHI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- The turmoil among the Indian political parties about the much disputed women reservation bill seems to have calmed down after the UPA government braved to get it passed in the Rajya Sabha yesterday. It was a historic moment as the bill had created a rift among the partners in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Women Reservation Bill Passed.

President Barack Obama Fishing Ban: True Or Fake?

WASHINGTON (GaeaTimes.com)- The news that President Barack Obama has decided to ban fishing in the country has shocked many people who are fond of fishing. Some of the news sources reported that the administration of the United States is considering about a law that would prohibit people from fishing in the water bodies … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : President Barack Obama Fishing Ban: True Or Fake?.

Mamata Banerjee takes a dig at Left parties on Women Reservation Bill

NEW DELHI – Union Railway Minister and Trinamool Congress chief Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday charged the Left parties of taking undue credit for the successful passage of the Women Reservation Bill in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday.
“Why is the Left parties taking undue credit for the bill,” said Banerjee.
“We boycotted the Bill because …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Texas ed board set for 1st vote since primary made lame ducks of some social conservatives

Texas ed board set to take 1st vote since primary

AUSTIN, Texas – Texas’ state education board is set to take a vote on a new social studies curriculum that could reverberate in classrooms nationwide.
A three-day meeting beginning Wednesday is the first since primary elections that could push the panel’s far-right leanings toward the center. Terms …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Texas ed board set for 1st vote since primary made lame ducks of some social conservatives.

Lok Sabha adjourned till 12 p.m.

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha was on Wednesday adjourned till 12 p.m. due to the chaos created inside the House by members of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) party and the Samajwadi Party over the successful passage of Women Reservation [..] Read the original article: here.

AP Interview: Brazil’s leader pledges active role in Mideast diplomacy, pushes talks with Iran

AP Interview: Brazil leader seeks peace in Mideast
BRASILIA, Brazil – Brazil’s president plans an active role in world diplomacy during his final months in power, saying he will visit the Middle East to seek peace and prevent a possible conflict over Iran’s nuclear program.
President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, whose second four-year term … Read more >>>.

Lalu Yadav to withdraw support to UPA

NEW DELHI – Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) supremo Lalu Prasad Yadav is expected to hand over a letter to President Pratibha Patil on Wednesday withdrawing his party’s support to the Congress-led United Progressive Alliance (UPA) Government on the issue of the Women Reservation Bill.
Addressing the media, Lalu Yadav said that despite making … Original article on : Lalu Yadav to withdraw support to UPA.

Gates says some US surge troops could leave Afghanistan before July 2011

Gates: Some troops could leave Afghanistan early
PUL-E-CHARKHI, Afghanistan – U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates raised the possibility Wednesday that some of the U.S. forces involved in the Afghanistan surge could leave the country before President Barack Obama’s announced July 2011 date to begin withdrawal.
Without giving …. Source  : Gates says some US surge troops could leave Afghanistan before July 2011.

Gates visits training site where Afghan army recruits go through exercises

Gates checks out Afghan army training exercises

POLE CHAKI TRAINING BASE, Afghanistan – U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates was watching Afghan army recruits go through training Wednesday.
Gates visited a dust-blown training ground in Kabul province where Afghan soldiers come for weeks of training under U.S. and British instruction. British Brigadier Simon Levy told Gates that if …. Read the original article  : here.

Police say gunmen attack aid group’s office in northwest Pakistan; 5 people killed

Aid group attacked in northwest Pakistan; 5 dead

ISLAMABAD – Suspected militants armed with grenades attacked the offices of an international aid group in northwest Pakistan on Wednesday, killing five people working for the organization, police said.
The attack targeted World Vision, a large Christian humanitarian group helping survivors of the 2005 Kashmir earthquake in Mansehra district.
The …. Original article  : Police say gunmen attack aid group’s office in northwest Pakistan; 5 people killed.

Census figures show nearly half of babies in US are born to minorities each year

Minority births on track to outnumber white births

WASHINGTON – Minorities make up nearly half the children born in the U.S., part of a historic trend in which minorities are expected to become the U.S. majority over the next 40 years.
In fact, demographers say this year could be the “tipping point” when the number of babies … Read more »».

Granny D, who traversed US a decade ago to promote campaign finance reform, dies at 100 in NH

NH campaign finance activist Granny D dies at 100

CONCORD, N.H. – Doris “Granny D” Haddock, a New Hampshire woman who walked across the country at age 89 to promote campaign finance reform and later waged a quixotic campaign for U.S. Senate, has died. She was 100.
Haddock died Tuesday night of chronic respiratory illness at her … Read : Granny D, who traversed US a decade ago to promote campaign finance reform, dies at 100 in NH.

Pope scores 27, Seton Hall holds off frantic Providence rally for 109-106 Big East victory

Pope, Seton Hall hold off frantic Providence rally

NEW YORK – Herb Pope had 27 points and 11 rebounds, and Seton Hall built a huge second-half lead before barely holding off a furious Providence rally for a 109-106 victory in the first round of the Big East tournament Tuesday night.
In a breakneck game between the league’s … Read more >>>.

Israel says ‘bad options’ for Iran getting closer _ developing nukes or military action

Israel says ‘bad options’ for Iran getting closer

UNITED NATIONS – The two “bad options” for Iran – letting the country develop nuclear weapons or using force to destroy its nuclear capabilities – are closer than they were a year ago, Israel’s U.N. ambassador warned Tuesday.
Gabriela Shalev told journalists at the U.N. Israel still hopes diplomatic … Read more >>>.

New election law bars Myanmar democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from election

Law bars Myanmar’s Aung San Suu Kyi from election

YANGON, Myanmar – A new election law issued by Myanmar’s ruling military has barred pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from joining a political party and thus running in upcoming elections, state-run newspapers said Wednesday.
The Political Parties Registration Law, published in official newspapers, excludes anyone convicted by …. Original article  : New election law bars Myanmar democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi from election.

Court allows Pratt & Whitney to speed up appeal in case to move 1,000 jobs out of Conn.

Pratt & Whitney to move quickly on court appeal

EAST HARTFORD, Conn. – Pratt & Whitney said Tuesday a federal appeals court granted the jet engine maker’s request for an expedited appeal of a lawsuit it lost as it tries to move 1,000 jobs out of Connecticut.
The subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. filed five proposed issues …. Source article  : Court allows Pratt & Whitney to speed up appeal in case to move 1,000 jobs out of Conn..

Neb. lawmakers want to give voters chance to ax treasurer’s office, say it could save money

Neb. voters may get chance to cut treasurer’s job

LINCOLN, Neb. – Nebraska lawmakers want to put the state treasurer’s office on the chopping block.
On Tuesday, they easily gave first-round approval to a measure that would go before voters in the November general election. If approved then, the office now held by Shane Osborn and that … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Neb. lawmakers want to give voters chance to ax treasurer’s office, say it could save money.

Sen. Vitter’s fundraising letter target of ethics complaint; opponent says eagle-image illegal

Opponent files ethics complaint on La. Sen. Vitter
BATON ROUGE, La. – A challenger to Louisiana Sen. David Vitter filed an ethics complaint Tuesday, claiming a fundraising letter for the Republican incumbent’s campaign makes illegal use of a government emblem.
The complaint with the Senate Select Committee on Ethics alleges Vitter’s fundraising plea violated federal …. Original source  : Sen. Vitter’s fundraising letter target of ethics complaint; opponent says eagle-image illegal.

Former NY Rep. Massa acknowledges groping male staffer but denies it was sexual

Massa denies he sexually groped male staffer

WASHINGTON – Former New York Congressman Eric Massa, who resigned from Congress amid sexual harassment allegations, acknowledged Tuesday groping a staffer but denied it was sexual.
“It doesn’t make any difference what my intentions were, it’s how it’s perceived by the individual who receives that action,” Massa said on conservative …. Source  : Former NY Rep. Massa acknowledges groping male staffer but denies it was sexual.

Remarks by Vice President Biden at Yad Vashem Memorial

Jerusalem
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
 VICE PRESIDENT BIDEN:  I want to thank our hosts for showing us through Yad Vashem.  As a young father, when I introduced each of our sons — who are grown men now — to Europe at age 15, I took them first to Dachau for them to understand as young men the … Read more >>>.

Yadav trio to meet Sonia Gandhi over Women’s Reservation Bill

NEW DELHI – Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief Lalu Prasad Yadav, Samajwadi Party (SP) supremo Mulayam Singh Yadav and Janata Dal-United (JD-U) chief Sharad Yadav are expected to meet Congress President Sonia Gandhi to discuss the Women’s Reservation Bill.
Amidst protests by …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Yadav trio to meet Sonia Gandhi over Women’s Reservation Bill.

Afghan president says Pakistan has ‘important’ role to play in peace talks with Taliban

Afghanistan welcomes Pakistani role in peace talks
ISLAMABAD – Afghan President Hamid Karzai said Thursday that Pakistan has an “important” role to play in peace talks with the Taliban, a possible attempt to squash speculation that his government was trying to sideline its neighbor.
Pakistan has offered to help negotiate with the Afghan Taliban, a …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Afghan president says Pakistan has ‘important’ role to play in peace talks with Taliban.

Mich. lawmaker unofficial leader of Democrats threatening to derail health care overhaul

Mich. lawmaker threatening to derail health care
WEST BRANCH, Mich. – Rep. Bart Stupak has become the unofficial leader of a small but powerful bloc threatening to derail President Barack Obama’s health care overhaul.
A dozen socially conservative Democrats say they won’t support the legislation without a prohibition on paying for abortions with federal money. … Read more : Mich. lawmaker unofficial leader of Democrats threatening to derail health care overhaul.

Gowda leads Karnataka farmers protests in Delhi

NEW DELHI – Former Prime Minister H D Deve Gowda led hundreds of farmers from Karnataka in a protest here on Wednesday against land acquisition for the Bangalore-Mysore Infrastructure Corridor (BMIC) project.
Supported by Left leaders and Rashtriya Lok Dal chief Ajit Singh, Gowda called the protest an extension of his fight against land …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Putin to arrive in India on two-day visit today

NEW DELHI – Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin will arrive here today on a two-day visit during which both sides are likely to conclude the long- delayed agreement on the sole of the aircraft carrier Admiral Gorshkov.
During his visit, Putin will also hold talks with the …. Source  : Putin to arrive in India on two-day visit today.

Report: New e-mail evidence Sen. John Ensign sought work for ex-lover’s husband

Report: Senator sought work for ex-lover’s husband

WASHINGTON – E-mails turned over to the FBI and Senate ethics investigators provide new evidence about Sen. John Ensign’s efforts to find lobbying work for the husband of his former mistress and could add to his legal problems, The New York Times reported.
Ensign, R-Nev., suggested that a Las Vegas …. Original source  : Report: New e-mail evidence Sen. John Ensign sought work for ex-lover’s husband.

Brazil’s president blasted for comments on Cuba’s dissidents and their hunger strikes

Brazil leader rapped for stance on Cuba dissidents

BRASILIA, Brazil – Brazil’s president came under withering criticism Wednesday at home and in Cuba for his deference to the island’s communist government over political prisoners and hunger strikes for human rights.
A Cuban dissident on hunger strike to demand the release of ailing political prisoners accused President Luiz … Read : Brazil’s president blasted for comments on Cuba’s dissidents and their hunger strikes.

NYC judge who found cutoff of ACORN funding unconstitutional orders govt to stop blocking it

NYC judge: Govt must stop blocking money to ACORN

NEW YORK – A federal judge who found it unconstitutional that Congress tried to cut funding to the activist group ACORN has rejected a government request to change her mind and has ordered government agencies to make it clear the funding isn’t blocked.
In a written ruling Wednesday, … Original source on Gaea Times at : NYC judge who found cutoff of ACORN funding unconstitutional orders govt to stop blocking it.

Rep. Patrick Kennedy calls news media ‘despicable’ for ignoring war in Afghanistan

Rep. Patrick Kennedy rips media in Afghan speech

WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Patrick Kennedy is blasting the news media as “despicable,” accusing it of ignoring the war in Afghanistan even as troops continue to die there.
The Rhode Island Democrat shouted, pointed and waved his arms excitedly during a speech on the House floor Wednesday on U.S. … Read more >>.

House Roll Call: US forces in Afghanistan

House Roll Call: US forces in Afghanistan
The 356-65 roll call Wednesday by which the House rejected a resolution directing the president to remove U.S. military forces from Afghanistan by the end of the year.

A “yes” vote is a vote to pass the measure.
Voting yes were 60 Democrats and 5 Republicans.
Voting no were 189 Democrats and … Read more >>.

House rejects quick troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, but anti-war lawmakers get to vent

House rejects call for withdrawal from Afghanistan
WASHINGTON – The House on Wednesday soundly rejected an effort by anti-war lawmakers to force a withdrawal of all U.S. troops from Afghanistan by the end of the year.
The outcome of the vote, 356-65 against the resolution, was never in doubt. But the 3 1/2 hours of …. Source  : House rejects quick troop withdrawal from Afghanistan, but anti-war lawmakers get to vent.

Hitting the road, Obama touts fraud measures as he makes closing argument for health overhaul

Obama takes health care overhaul push to Missouri
ST. CHARLES, Mo. – President Barack Obama denounced waste, inefficiency and downright fraud in the government’s health care system Wednesday as he sought to rally public support for his revamped overhaul plan.
“Improper payments cost taxpayers almost $100 billion last year alone,” Obama said at a rally … Read more »»».

President Obama Nominates Raymond Lohier, Jr. for the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, Judge Kate O’Malley for the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, President Obama nominated Raymond Lohier, Jr. to the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit and Judge Kate O’Malley to the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.  Lohier currently serves as an Assistant United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York; O’Malley currently serves …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : President Obama Nominates Raymond Lohier, Jr. for the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit, Judge Kate O’Malley for the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit.

Remarks by the First Lady at the International Women of Courage Awards

3:35 P.M. EST
MRS. OBAMA:  Well, thank you.  This is indeed a pleasure and an honor to be here with all of you today.  You all look fabulous.  (Laughter.)  This is a wonderful occasion.

Let me thank my dear friend, Senator — Secretary Clinton.  (Laughter.)  I almost said, “President Clinton.”  (Laughter and applause.)  But let me thank …. Source  : Remarks by the First Lady at the International Women of Courage Awards.

Census promoters seek to reach Hispanic families through tech-savvy youngsters

Census campaign targets tech-savvy Hispanic youth

LOS ANGELES – Groups pushing for robust Hispanic participation in the 2010 census announced a new campaign Thursday that aims to reach the hard-to-count demographic through its smart-phone-toting youngsters.
The “Be Counted, Represent” campaign offers music downloads and a chance at concert tickets to cell phone users who share their e-mail … Read more »».

Once-revered South Carolina lawmaker freezes to death alone in rented home at 75

Once-revered SC lawmaker freezes to death alone

COLUMBIA, S.C. – When Juanita Goggins became the first black woman elected to the South Carolina Legislature in 1974, she was hailed as a trailblazer and twice visited the president at the White House.
Three decades later, she froze to death at age 75, a solitary figure living in a … Read : Once-revered South Carolina lawmaker freezes to death alone in rented home at 75.

Statement by the Press Secretary on the Passing of Sheikh Mohammed Sayyed Tantawi

“We express our deepest condolences on the passing of Egyptian cleric Sheikh Mohammed Sayyed Tantawi.  As the grand sheikh of Al-Azhar University, he was a voice for faith and tolerance who was widely respected in Muslim communities in Egypt and around the globe, and by many who seek to build a world grounded in mutual …. Source article  : Statement by the Press Secretary on the Passing of Sheikh Mohammed Sayyed Tantawi.

Remarks by The First Lady at the National PTA Conference

Doubletree Hotel Crystal City
Arlington, Virginia
12:20 P.M. EST

MRS. OBAMA:  Thank you.  (Applause.)  Thank you all so much.  (Applause.)  Thank you.  (Applause.)  Please, please, be seated.
Thanks so much.  It is a pleasure to be here with all of you today.  And thank you for the wonderful work that you do every day in schools and communities all … Read : Remarks by The First Lady at the National PTA Conference.

President Obama Signs South Dakota Disaster Declaration

The President today declared a major disaster exists in the State of South Dakota and ordered Federal aid to supplement State and local recovery efforts in the area struck by a severe winter storm during the period of January 20-26, 2010.

Federal funding is available to State and eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Presidential Memorandum Regarding Finding and Recapturing Improper Payments

MEMORANDUM FOR THE HEADS OF EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENTS AND AGENCIES
SUBJECT: Finding and Recapturing Improper Payments

My Administration is committed to reducing payment errors and eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse in Federal programs — a commitment reflected in Executive Order 13520 of November 20, 2009, Reducing Improper Payments. Executive departments and agencies should use every tool available to … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Memorandum Regarding Finding and Recapturing Improper Payments.

Ailing ex-Nepal PM Koirala shifted to daughter’s house

KATHMANDU – Former Nepal Prime Minister and Nepali Congress president Girija Prasad Koirala has been moved to his daughter Deputy Prime Minister Sujata Koirala’s residence in Mandhikhatar.

Koirala left his Maharajgunj residence for Sujata’s house, as it has better facilities, including a cabin that …. Read the original article  : Ailing ex-Nepal PM Koirala shifted to daughter’s house.

Thai anti-government protesters begin to mass around the country ahead of march on Bangkok

Thai anti-govt protesters begin to mass for rally

BANGKOK – Anti-government protesters massed around Thailand on Friday ahead of a march they hope will paralyze the capital and force Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva to call new elections. Authorities mobilized 50,000 security officers and set up checkpoints around Bangkok.
Several schools closed in Bangkok and foreigners were advised …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Thai anti-government protesters begin to mass around the country ahead of march on Bangkok.

Lok Sabha mourns RSS leader’s death

NEW DELHI – The Lok Sabha Friday mourned the death of Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) ideologue and former MP Nanaji Deshmukh who died Feb 27.
Speaker Meira Kumar described him as an activist and agriculturist who worked for realisation of the dream of total transformation in villages.
“He founded the Saraswati Shishu Mandir, a … Read : Lok Sabha mourns RSS leader’s death.

Women’s bill in Lok Sabha after consultation: Congress

NEW DELHI – The Congress said Friday it was keen to get the womens reservation bill passed in the Lok Sabha but said it will be brought to the lower house only after consultation with political parties.
Paban Singh Ghatowar, the Congress chief whip in the Lok Sabha, refused to specify a time-frame for …. Source  : Women’s bill in Lok Sabha after consultation: Congress.

DMK, AIADMK to groom women of substance for elections

CHENNAI – Tamil Nadu’s ruling DMK and main opposition AIADMK have sprung into action, now that the women’s reservation bill is just a step away from being passed. Both parties have decided to groom their women cadres to fight elections.

The ruling DMK is planning to hold camps across the state to empower its women cadres. … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : DMK, AIADMK to groom women of substance for elections.

Utah state House GOP leader Garn says he paid woman to keep silent about hot tub incident

Utah House GOP leader says he paid off woman

SALT LAKE CITY – Utah’s House majority leader said late Thursday he paid a woman $150,000 to keep silent about going nude “hot-tubbing” with her when she was minor a quarter century ago.
In a shocking statement on the House floor, Kevin Garn, 55, of Layton said he …. Source article  : Utah state House GOP leader Garn says he paid woman to keep silent about hot tub incident.

Putin meets President Patil

NEW DELHI – Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin on Friday met President Pratibha Patil as he began his New Delhi visit eyeing upon boosting strategic and defence ties with India.
Putin, who is on a 22-hour visit to India, is expected to sign over a dozen agreements with India, including an umbrella civil nuclear … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Putin meets President Patil.

Pakistani navy tests missiles in Arabian Sea, calling it a message to ‘nefarious’ forces

Pakistan navy tests missiles in Arabian Sea

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s navy successfully test-fired a series of missiles and torpedoes Friday in what it called a message to “nefarious” forces – an apparent reference to longtime rival India.
While the two nuclear-armed neighbors have taken slow steps toward restarting peace talks, they also have a history of using …. Source  : Pakistani navy tests missiles in Arabian Sea, calling it a message to ‘nefarious’ forces.

Berlusconi to duck corruption trial by claiming he is too busy to attend hearing

LONDON – Italian parliament has provided a new escape route to corruption-accused Silvio Berlusconi by passing a new law that allows the Prime Minister to claim he is too busy to attend a court trial.

The law will allow Berlusconi to avoid court hearings by arguing that he has a “legitimate impediment” – for instance a …. Read the original article  : Berlusconi to duck corruption trial by claiming he is too busy to attend hearing.

Utah state GOP leader says he paid woman to keep silent about hot tub incident

Utah state GOP leader says he paid off woman

SALT LAKE CITY – The majority leader of Utah’s House of Representatives says he paid a woman $150,000 to keep silent about going “hot-tubbing” with her when she was minor a quarter century ago.
Republican Kevin Garn told his colleagues Thursday night that while he did not have … Original article on : Utah state GOP leader says he paid woman to keep silent about hot tub incident.

Pakistani navy tests missiles, calling it a message to ‘nefarious’ forces

Pakistan tests missiles in Arabian Sea
ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s navy successfully test-fired a series of missiles and torpedoes Friday in what it called a message to “nefarious” forces – an apparent reference to longtime rival India.

While the two nuclear-armed neighbors have taken slow steps toward restarting peace talks, they also have a history of using weapons … Read more >>.

Australian officials investigate allegations of sex competition on board navy ship

Australian navy faces inquiry in alleged sex ring

SYDNEY – Australian officials have launched an investigation into allegations that sailors on board a navy ship were running a sex competition during an overseas deployment last year.
The Defense Department says the inquiry that began Friday comes after an initial investigation was found to be biased.
Three sailors from …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Australian officials investigate allegations of sex competition on board navy ship.

Aid groups in China say they feel threatened by new rules on overseas donations

NGOs in China say threatened by new donor rules

BEIJING – Aid groups in China said Friday they feel threatened by new rules that make it harder to take overseas donations, warning that losing the money could put many out of business as the government steps into the issue for the first time.
China is behind most … Read more : Aid groups in China say they feel threatened by new rules on overseas donations.

Gordon Brown voted worst male travel companion

MELBOURNE – British Prime Minister Gordon Brown is the last man Brits want to travel with, a new survey has found.

The leader has been voted the worst male travel companion in the annual TNT travel survey that quizzed 500 British men and women aged 18 to 45.
“Given his sinking popularity, it comes as no surprise … Read : Gordon Brown voted worst male travel companion.

Taiwan’s justice minister resigns over objection to death penalty

Taiwan minister resigns over death penalty row

TAIPEI, Taiwan – Taiwan’s justice minister has resigned after her public stance against the death penalty failed to win popular backing.
The decision by Wang Ching-feng – announced by the Cabinet late Thursday – highlights the continued support for capital punishment in Taiwan, despite the island’s four-year de facto moratorium …. Source  : Taiwan’s justice minister resigns over objection to death penalty.

India, Russia to sign deals worth 10 billion dollars

NEW DELHI – India and Russia are expected to sign deals worth over ten billion dollars, including in defence and civilian nuclear sectors during the ongoing visit of Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin.
Several supplementary agreements relating to the Aircraft Carrier Gorshkov deal will also be signed as the two countries have resolved the … Read more >>>.

I’m ready to mediate with Maoists: Trinamool MP Kabir Suman

KOLKATA – Kabir Suman, the Trinamool Congress MP who is not always known to toe the party line and a hugely popular poet-singer in West Bengal, says he is willing to mediate between the central government and Maoists.
Elected from the Jadavpur constituency last year, Suman believes tribals have “a very strong reason” to …. Original source  : I’m ready to mediate with Maoists: Trinamool MP Kabir Suman.

Pa. GOP picks Burns as nominee to fill Murtha’s seat; he’ll face Critz in May special election

Pa. GOP picks Burns as nominee for Murtha’s seat

PITTSBURGH – Republicans in Pennsylvania have nominated a political newcomer to fill the congressional seat of the late Rep. John Murtha.
Tim Burns is a 41-year-old millionaire businessman and a native of Murtha’s hometown of Johnstown. Burns now lives in the town of Eighty Four, about 30 miles … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Pa. GOP picks Burns as nominee to fill Murtha’s seat; he’ll face Critz in May special election.

Report blasts firm overseeing Katrina infrastructure rebuilding for questionable spending

Report blasts firm overseeing Katrina recovery

NEW ORLEANS – An engineering firm hired to oversee the reconstruction of city buildings and infrastructure damaged by Hurricane Katrina has been overcharging the city, including billing for theater tickets and a flight to Las Vegas, an internal investigation found.
The report by New Orleans Inspector General E.R. Quatrevaux said the … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Report blasts firm overseeing Katrina infrastructure rebuilding for questionable spending.

Ginsburg supports ending judicial elections at state, local level and the money they attract

Ginsburg endorses end to local judicial elections

WASHINGTON – Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is endorsing an end to the election of judges at the state and local levels.
Ginsburg was speaking Thursday at a conference of female judges, many who are elected. She approves of the campaign by her former colleague, retired Justice Sandra Day … Original article on : Ginsburg supports ending judicial elections at state, local level and the money they attract.

CPI-M fields young faces for Rajya Sabha polls

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – Kerala’s ruling Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) Saturday named Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan’s political secretary K.N. Balagopal and professor T.N. Seema, both in their 40s, as its nominees for elections to two Rajya Sabha seats.
While the CPI-M hopes to win both seats, the third Rajya Sabha seat to which elections will … Original source on Gaea Times at : CPI-M fields young faces for Rajya Sabha polls.

New Secretariat Building Chennai: Inaugration Today

CHENNAI, INDIA (GaeaTimes.com)- On Saturday the Prime Minister of India, Dr Manmohan Singh along with Congress President Sonia Gandhi will fly to Chennai to inaugurate the new Tamil Nadu Assembly and Secretariat building complex. According to the reports the new complex has cost the state Rs 450 crores. Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi who inspected the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : New Secretariat Building Chennai: Inaugration Today.

US avoids anti-abortion schism at meeting on women’s equality _ unlike 2005

US avoids anti-abortion debate at UN meeting
UNITED NATIONS – A U.N. meeting to assess progress in advancing the fight for women’s equality that ended Friday had a dramatically different slant than a similar session held five years ago: This time, the United States was not trying to make an anti-abortion declaration … Original article on : US avoids anti-abortion schism at meeting on women’s equality _ unlike 2005.

Anti-government protesters ready to descend on Bangkok

BANGKOK – Tens of thousands of protesters arrived at the outskirts of Bangkok Saturday to participate in demonstrations aimed at forcing the Thai government to resign and call for new elections.

In Wang Noi in Ayutthaya province, an estimated 70,000 to 100,000 demonstrators had gathered Saturday morning, witnesses said, as they prepared to descend on Bangkok, … Read more : Anti-government protesters ready to descend on Bangkok.

Another group calls for shutdown in Nepal’s Terai

KATHMANDU – With less than 80 days left for the promulgation of a new constitution in Nepal, the nascent republic went on the boil once again Saturday with its Tharu community, believed to be the descendants of the Buddha, going on the warpath.

Eight Tharu organisations have called a shutdown of nearly one-third of Nepals 75 …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

BJD MP wants to cycle to parliament

BHUBANESWAR – Eager to do his bit to save the environment, a Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP has asked Lok Sabha speaker Meira Kumar for permission to come to parliament on a bicycle.
“As there is no provision for the entry of bicycles into parliament, I have sought permission from the speaker through which …. Read the original article  : BJD MP wants to cycle to parliament.

Manmohan Singh to inaugurate new TN Assembly complex today

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh will inaugurate the Rs.425 crore new Tamil Nadu Assembly complex in Chennai this evening.
Congress President Sonia Gandhi, Tamil Nadu Governor Surjit Singh Barnala and several central and state ministers will attend the function.
It is the first Assembly building in … Read : Manmohan Singh to inaugurate new TN Assembly complex today.

Obama to visit India later this year

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama will visit India later this year though he and Prime Minister Manmohan Singh would have a chance to discuss some bilateral issues at next month’s Global Nuclear Security Summit here.
“No, mostly Prime Minister Singh’s visit in April will really be for the Global Nuclear Security Summit. That will …. Read the original article  : Obama to visit India later this year.

Former BJP minister summoned by riot probe panel

AHMEDABAD – Former Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) general secretary Nalin Bhatt has been summoned by the Supreme Court-appointed Special Investigation Team (SIT) for questioning in connection with the 2002 communal riots in Gulberg society.

Bhatt is to appear before the panel Saturday in connection with the Gulberg society massacre in which former Congress MP Ehsan Jaffri … Read : Former BJP minister summoned by riot probe panel.

India ties among most consequential in 21st century: US

WASHINGTON – Looking at relations with India “as one of the most consequential of US foreign policy in the 21st century”, the US wishes to capitalise on their converging values and interests to confront global challenges, said a senior US official.
“India is going to be an increasingly important factor in the 21st century, … Original article on : India ties among most consequential in 21st century: US.

Reprocessing accord with India soon: US

WASHINGTON – Reiterating that Washington remains “very much committed” to the nuclear deal with India, a US official sees “good progress” on crucial talks on reprocessing and hopes an accord would emerge well before the August deadline.
“So, we’re now in the process of implementing that agreement,” Robert O. Blake, Assistant Secretary of …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Reprocessing accord with India soon: US.

Thousands of anti-government protesters converge on Thai capital

Anti-government protesters head for Bangkok

BANGKOK – Thousands of red-shirted anti-government demonstrators converged on the Thai capital from the north and northeast Saturday, vowing to oust the government in a mass do-or-die display of muscle.
Although protest leaders stressed they would not resort to violence, many businesses closed down, social events were canceled and Bangkok’s normally chaotic …. Source  : Thousands of anti-government protesters converge on Thai capital.

Telangana joint committee expel TDP

HYDERABAD – Telangana Joint Action Committee (JAC), which is spearheading the movement for separate Telangana state, has expelled main opposition Telugu Desam Party (TDP).

The decision was taken late Friday at a JAC meeting attended by its convenor M. Kodandaram, Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) president K. Chandrasekhara Rao, party ideologue Jayashankar and representatives of Telangana employees’ …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US was insulted by Israel’s housing plans: Clinton

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton said Israel’s behaviour during the visit of Vice President Joe Biden to the couintry was “insulting”, raising the level of tension in an open diplomatic rift with Israel.
“The announcement of the settlement the very same day the vice president was there was insulting … … Read more »».

NYC officials: Taxi drivers scammed riders by $8.3M-plus by setting meters to suburban rate

NYC: Taxi drivers overcharged riders by $8.3M-plus

NEW YORK – New York City officials have discovered a widespread scam in which thousands of taxi drivers overcharged passengers by more than $8.3 million.
The Taxi and Limousine Commission said Friday that it had found at least 1.8 million trips over the past two years where passengers were ripped …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : NYC officials: Taxi drivers scammed riders by $8.3M-plus by setting meters to suburban rate.

Clinton rebukes Netanyahu over housing unit plans

WASHINGTON – US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Friday to express “strong objections” to plans to build housing units in occupied East Jerusalem.
The dispute opened up a rare diplomatic rift between the US and Israel, as the announcement for the new construction came while Vice …. Original source  : Clinton rebukes Netanyahu over housing unit plans.

Paul, once the grassroots outsider, builds momentum as mainstream GOP Senate candidate in Ky.

Paul, once the outsider, gains GOP support in Ky.

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Now that Rand Paul’s candidacy for the U.S. Senate has gained momentum, he’s beginning to pick up support from the Republican establishment.
He had run his campaign in Kentucky as the consummate outsider: a grassroots candidate drawing support from regular Joes and Janes. Now, Paul … Read more »»».

Briefing by White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 3/12/10

2:10 P.M. EST
PRESS CORPS:  Yay!
PRESS CORPS:  Ohhhh!
MR. GIBBS:  Nice to see you.  Let me get a few pictures over here.  What was that groan for?  Come on.

Q    Show us again, come one.
Q    You can’t go yet, I’m not ready.
MR. GIBBS:  Don’t worry, we’ll do a couple of non-serious announcements in my –
Q    What position did … Read : Briefing by White House Press Secretary Robert Gibbs, 3/12/10.

Summary Box: Yellen at Fed would likely favor low-rate policy

Summary Box: Obama mulls choices for Fed vacancies
RESHAPING THE FED: President Barack Obama needs to fill three vacancies at the Federal Reserve. Janet Yellen, president of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, is his top pick to be vice chairman.
MAIN STREET’S PAIN: Yellen is considered a “dove,” meaning she favors a policy … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Summary Box: Yellen at Fed would likely favor low-rate policy.

Former GOP congressman DioGuardi, father of ‘American Idol’ judge, to announce Senate run

DioGuardi, dad of ‘Idol’ judge, to run for Senate

ALBANY, N.Y. – The father of “American Idol” judge Kara DioGuardi (KEHR’-uh dee-oh-GWAHR’-dee), former Republican congressman Joe DioGuardi, is set to announce he is running for the U.S. Senate seat held by Kirsten Gillibrand.
DioGuardi represented the suburbs north of New York City for two terms before he … Read : Former GOP congressman DioGuardi, father of ‘American Idol’ judge, to announce Senate run.

Cyclist on runway as Mulayam’s plane lands

LUCKNOW – Samajwadi Party chief Mulayam Singh Yadav had a narrow escape Sunday morning when a cyclist suddenly appeared on the runway just as his plane was landing at the Saifai aerodrome in Uttar Pradesh’s Etawah district.

Mulayam Singh, who was on his way from Delhi to Lucknow, had made a brief stopover at Saefai, about … Read more »».

Minister’s son gets contract from father’s department

RANCHI – A Jharkhand minister is facing allegations of favouring his son in awarding a contract worth Rs.1.41 crore from his department.

Tanvir Ansari, son of Rural Works Minister Haji Hussain Ansari, was given the contract for road construction in Deoghar district March 5. It was awarded by the tender committee of the rural works department …. Read the original article  : Minister’s son gets contract from father’s department.

Won’t allow passage of Women’s Reservation Bill in Lok Sabha: Lalu Yadav

PATNA – Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) President Lalu Prasad Yadav deciding to stall the Women’s Reservation Bill in its present form has said that he will not allow it to pass in the Lok Sabha.
Addressing a gathering of Muslim Community in Patna, Yadav said, “The government will have to throw me out of …. Source  : Won’t allow passage of Women’s Reservation Bill in Lok Sabha: Lalu Yadav.

Maneka Gandhi stopped from entering riot-hit Bareilly

BAREILLY – Noted animal-rights activist and Aonla MP Maneka Gandhi, who is heading the three member panel appointed by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to monitor the situation in riot-hit Bareilly was on Sunday not allowed to enter the city.

Sources said police personnel stopped Gandhi near Ghaziabad, while enroute to Bareilly.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) President …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Maneka Gandhi stopped from entering riot-hit Bareilly.

Big BJP boss steps in to save protgs (Capital Buzz)

NEW DELHI – The shock outburst by a clutch of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MPs over the women’s reservation bill left some party satraps red-faced after they put up a spirited defence in the Rajya Sabha. But when there’s a crisis, there’s big boss L.K. Advani.
Opposition to the bill by controversial Yogi Adityanath …. Read the original article  : Big BJP boss steps in to save protgs (Capital Buzz).

Russia, US close to signing arms reduction pact: Kremlin

Moscow, March 14 (IANS/RIA Novosti) The Russian and US presidents have discussed the negotiations on a new strategic arms reductions treaty and said it was possible to talk about a date for the deal to be signed, the Kremlin said.
\”The heads of state have, by an already established tradition, held a regular exchange … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Russia, US close to signing arms reduction pact: Kremlin.

Despite brashness that made him a pariah in the GOP, Bunning still a hero in Ky. home base

Despite brashness, Bunning still a hero in Ky.

HEBRON, Ky. – Irascible Republican U.S. Sen. Jim Bunning has been a pariah among his congressional colleagues. Back in the conservative swath of northern Kentucky he calls home, though, he’s being heralded as a hero.
Democrats bemoaned Bunning as unsympathetic to down-on-their-luck Americans when he single-handedly held up a …. Original article  : Despite brashness that made him a pariah in the GOP, Bunning still a hero in Ky. home base.

Obama, Medvedev discuss final issues on nuclear arms reduction treaty

Obama, Medvedev encouraged on arms talks accord
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama on Saturday had what the White House described as an “encouraging” phone conversation with Russian President Dmitrty Medvedev as the two countries sought to work out the remaining issues on a treaty to significantly reduce nuclear arsenals.
National Security Council spokesman …. Original article  : Obama, Medvedev discuss final issues on nuclear arms reduction treaty.

Fiorina introduces herself to GOP faithful with heavy criticism of Boxer, gov’t spending

Fiorina assails Washington, Boxer as out of touch

SANTA CLARA, Calif. – Senate candidate Carly Fiorina is attempting to win over California Republicans by attacking two of their strongest dislikes – incumbent Democrat Barbara Boxer and a federal government she says is broken.
Fiorina is the former Hewlett-Packard CEO making her first run at public office. She …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Fiorina introduces herself to GOP faithful with heavy criticism of Boxer, gov’t spending.

Sen. Reid’s wife taken out of intensive care unit after surgery on broken neck following crash

Sen. Reid’s wife leaves hospital’s intensive care

FALLS CHURCH, Va. – Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid’s wife has been transferred out of a Virginia hospital’s intensive care unit and is improving after she was seriously injured in an accident on an interstate highway near Washington.
Jon Summers, a spokesman for the senator, says Landra Reid’s condition was … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Sen. Reid’s wife taken out of intensive care unit after surgery on broken neck following crash.

Opponents would fight any ACORN attempt to return to Ohio for voter registration purposes

Ohio opponents would fight ACORN attempt to return

COLUMBUS, Ohio – The community organizing group ACORN is not expressly prohibited from returning to Ohio under a settlement reached in a lawsuit that claimed it used fraudulent voter registration practices.
But a lawyer for a group that filed the lawsuit says it would fight in court any attempt … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Opponents would fight any ACORN attempt to return to Ohio for voter registration purposes.

Lesbian Air Force sergeant discharged after SD police see marriage license and tell military

Lesbian sgt. discharged after police tell military

Former Air Force sergeant Jene (jeh-NAY’) Newsome says she played by the rules. She never told anyone in the military that she was a lesbian.
But Newsome was discharged earlier this year under the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” law after Rapid City, S.D., police officers saw an Iowa marriage …. Original article  : Lesbian Air Force sergeant discharged after SD police see marriage license and tell military.

Utah House GOP leader resigns after confession about nude hot-tubbing with teenage girl

Utah GOP leader resigns after hot tub confession

SALT LAKE CITY – Utah’s House majority leader resigned from the Legislature Saturday, two days after acknowledging he paid a woman $150,000 to keep quiet about a nude hot-tubbing incident that took place a quarter century ago when she was a teenager.
Republican Rep. Kevin Garn’s Thursday night confession …. Original article  : Utah House GOP leader resigns after confession about nude hot-tubbing with teenage girl.

Despite brashness that made him a pariah in the GOP, Bunning known as a hero in Ky. home base

Despite brashness, Bunning a hero back home in Ky.

HEBRON, Ky. – Irascible Republican U.S. Sen. Jim Bunning has been a pariah among his congressional colleagues. Back in the conservative swath of northern Kentucky he calls home, though, he’s being heralded as a hero.
Democrats bemoaned Bunning as unsympathetic to down-on-their-luck Americans when he single-handedly held up … Read more »».

Appeals court to rehear case of California man removed from council meeting after Nazi salute

Court in SF to rehear Nazi salute case
SAN FRANCISCO – A California man who was ordered removed from a Santa Cruz City Council meeting after making a one-armed Nazi salute has won another day in court.

The Ninth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in San Francisco said Friday a majority of its justices have agreed to …. Original source  : Appeals court to rehear case of California man removed from council meeting after Nazi salute.

Push for Native Hawaiian government could address problems faced by islanders since overthrow

Native Hawaiian government may become reality
HONOLULU – Their kingdom long ago overthrown, Native Hawaiians seeking redress are closer than they’ve ever been to reclaiming a piece of Hawaii.
Native Hawaiians are the last remaining indigenous group in the United States that hasn’t been allowed to establish their own government, a right already … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Push for Native Hawaiian government could address problems faced by islanders since overthrow.

Congress opposes Kashmir bill curtailing women’s rights

JAMMU – The Congress has decided to oppose a bill moved earlier this week in the upper house of the state legislature depriving women of their citizenship rights if they marry non-permanent residents of Jammu and Kashmir.
“This piece of legislation will never be supported by the party within or outside of the legislature,” …. Read the original article  : Congress opposes Kashmir bill curtailing women’s rights.

Thousands of government supporters and opposition march over disputed Togo presidential vote

Thousands march over Togo presidential vote

LOME, Togo – Thousands of demonstrators have taken to the streets of Togo’s capital in two organized, opposing marches more than a week after a disputed presidential election won by the son of the former dictator.
Opposition candidate Jean-Pierre Fabre on Saturday led his opposition party on its march, which was … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Thousands of government supporters and opposition march over disputed Togo presidential vote.

Afghan police report 4 explosions in city in southern Afghanistan; causes not yet known

Afghan police: 4 explosions occur in Kandahar

KANDAHAR, Afghanistan – Afghan police say four explosions have occurred in the city of Kandahar in southern Afghanistan. What caused the explosions wasn’t yet known.
Deputy provincial police chief Mohammad Shad Farooqi says the explosions were reported Saturday evening across the city – near a hotel, a prison, a mosque … Read more »»».

New clashes in Jerusalem, West Bank

JERUSALEM – Groups of young Palestinians rioted Saturday in the old city of Jerusalem and the West bank after Israeli police closed both areas to devout Muslims seeking to go to the Al-Aqsa Mosque in the Temple Mount.

Five of the rioters were arrested.
Arab youths tried to break through Israeli police controls at the Nablus … Read more »».