Pandemonium in Kerala assembly, opposition walks out

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM – The Kerala assembly Monday witnessed uproarious scenes when a war of words broke out between Leader of Opposition Oommen Chandy and Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan following which members of the Congress-led United Democratic Front (UDF) walked out of the House.

It all started when Congress legislator T.N. Prathapan sought leave for an adjournment … Read : Pandemonium in Kerala assembly, opposition walks out.

Terri Schiavo Kill Bill Signed by Gov. Paterson

New York (GaeaTimes.com) Gov. David Paterson does talk about domestic violence prevention but in action he actually takes the opposite route. What am I talking about? Let me tell you a real story first of all.

Terry Schindler Schiavo. This is the story of the Florida woman who decided to divorce her husband. One day, …. Source article  : Terri Schiavo Kill Bill Signed by Gov. Paterson.

Chhattisgarh minister faces flak for slapping official

RAIPUR – A senior minister in Chhattisgarh’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government has got embroiled in a controversy after he reportedly slapped a government official.

Panchayat and Rural Development Minister Ramvichar Netam had allegedly slapped protocol officer Santosh Devangan in Bilaspur town Saturday after the official failed to arrange a room for him at the state …. Read the original article  : Chhattisgarh minister faces flak for slapping official.

Myanmar proposes re-drawing sea border with Bangladesh

DHAKA – Myanmar has proposed drawing up of a new line to demarcate the maritime boundary with Bangladesh which is currently in talks with its western neighbour India on the sea border issue.

Bangladesh insists on the principle of “equity and equidistance” with its neighbours and has lodged complaints at the UN against both the countries. … Original source on Gaea Times at : Myanmar proposes re-drawing sea border with Bangladesh.

Last defendant in Iraq killings seeks to dismiss charges

Last Haditha defendant seeks to dismiss charges

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – A four-star general is scheduled to make a rare courtroom appearance at Camp Pendleton over his role overseeing the biggest criminal case against U.S. troops to arise from the Iraq war.
Gen. James Mattis is scheduled to address a military judge Monday on a defense motion …. Original article  : Last defendant in Iraq killings seeks to dismiss charges.

Malaysian Indians returning to ruling alliance: Samy Vellu

KUALA LUMPUR – Two years after they moved away during the March 2008 election, Malaysia’s nearly two million ethnic Indians are returning to the ruling alliance Barisan Nasional (BN), according to Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) president S. Samy Vellu.

That the Indians were returning to the BN was evident with many bringing their problems to the [..] Read the original article: here.

Wolfgang Wagner, longtime patriarch of Bayreuth festival and composer’s grandson, dies at 90

Wolfgang Wagner, longtime Bayreuth director, dies

BERLIN – Wolfgang Wagner, the grandson of composer Richard Wagner and the leader of the Bayreuth opera festival for more than half a century, has died, the festival said. He was 90.
Wagner died on Sunday, the festival said in a brief statement on its Web site. It did not give … Read more : Wolfgang Wagner, longtime patriarch of Bayreuth festival and composer’s grandson, dies at 90.

House Democrats send historic health bill to President Obama; action shifts to Senate

House sends health care overhaul bill to Obama
WASHINGTON – A transformative health care bill is headed to President Barack Obama for his signature.
On the cusp of succeeding where numerous past congresses and administrations have failed, jubilant House Democrats voted 219-212 late Sunday to send legislation to Obama that will extend coverage to 32 …. Original source  : House Democrats send historic health bill to President Obama; action shifts to Senate.

US happy with progress on n-deal with India: Roemer

NEW DELHI – Declining to comment on reports of a possible US-Pakistan nuclear deal, US Ambassador to India Timothy J. Roemer Monday said his country was happy with the progress on the civil nuclear deal with India.

We are happy over the progress on the civil nuclear deal with India in the last few weeks, Roemer … Original source on Gaea Times at : US happy with progress on n-deal with India: Roemer.

Upset Shatrughan Sinha not to attend Bihar Day celebrations

PATNA – Bollywood actor-turned-politician Shatrughan Sinha Monday claimed he had not been invited by the Bihar government for the state’s first-ever Bihar Day celebrations and would not be attending the official event.

Sinha, a Bharatiya Janata Party MP from Patna Sahib, voicing his hurt at not being invited, said: “I will not attend Bihar Divas (Day) …. Read the original article  : Upset Shatrughan Sinha not to attend Bihar Day celebrations.

Message from President Barack Obama on Comprehensive Health Care Reform Bill

Angsuman –
For the first time in our nation’s history, Congress has passed comprehensive health care reform. America waited a hundred years and fought for decades to reach this moment. Tonight, thanks to you, we are finally here.

Consider the staggering scope of what you have just accomplished:
Because of you, every American will finally be guaranteed high …. Source article  : Message from President Barack Obama on Comprehensive Health Care Reform Bill.

Rajnath Singh meets Nepalese PM

KATHMANDU – Former Bharatiya Janata Party chief Rajnath Singh, who had come to Nepal to attend the funeral of ex- Prime Minister Girija Prasad Koirala, met Prime Minister Madhav Kumar Nepal here this morning.
According to Nepalnews, Singh said after Koirala’s death not only had Nepal lost a …. Original source  : Rajnath Singh meets Nepalese PM.

Health Care Vote Results Update

New York (GaeaTimes.com) The vote on the health care legislation was scheduled for this Sunday and after a prolonged debate of over a year, the Democratic Congress handed President Obama a huge victory on Sunday Night. The passing of the bill could mean a slew of changes taking effect within months. But the impact …. Source article  : Health Care Vote Results Update.

Bill on district jobs after Congress-NC agreement

JAMMU – Jammu and Kashmir’s ruling National Conference (NC) was planning to introduce the bill banning inter-district recruitment Monday but will now do so only after differences are resolved with alliance partner Congress that is unhappy at not being consulted.

The bill bars applicants from seeking jobs in districts other than their native ones.
“Congress has … Original article on : Bill on district jobs after Congress-NC agreement.

Goa NCP-Congress bury differences after midnight meeting

PANAJI – After holding the Congress-led Goa government to ransom for several weeks, alliance partner Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) has decided to bury the hatchet and said it would support the finance bill in the budget session beginning Monday.

The decision to support the Digambar Kamat-led government was taken around midnight at a coordination meeting held … Original article on : Goa NCP-Congress bury differences after midnight meeting.

House Roll Call: Changes to Senate health bill

House Roll Call: Changes to Senate health bill

The 220-211 roll call Sunday by which the House passed the Reconciliation Act of 2010, including key changes to the Senate health care bill.
A “yes” vote is a vote to pass the bill.
Voting yes were 220 Democrats and 0 Republicans.
Voting no were 33 Democrats and 178 Republicans.
There are … Read : House Roll Call: Changes to Senate health bill.

CAPITAL CULTURE: White House social job shifts to fundraiser who’s girl-next-door nice, driven

CAPITAL CULTURE: Smoot’s girl-next-door nice, fun

WASHINGTON – It’s the grind that every politician dreads: working the phones, hour after hour, asking people for campaign money.
Of all the gushy things that fans of Julianna Smoot have to say about the Obamas’ new social secretary, the most telling may be that she could make even “the ask” …. Read the original article  : CAPITAL CULTURE: White House social job shifts to fundraiser who’s girl-next-door nice, driven.

India’s women’s bill inspiring for Africa: Ghana minister

NEW DELHI – India’s experiment with gender equality in parliament through the women’s reservation bill has struck a chord in Africa, says Ghana’s Trade and Industry Minister Hannah Tetteh.

“I hope this legislation goes through. It’s inspiring for women everywhere, including in Africa,” Tetteh, one of the seven women ministers in the West African country and … Read more >>>.

Democrats reject Republican attempt to undo just-passed health care bill

Democrats reject GOP effort to undo health bill
WASHINGTON – Democrats turned back a Republican attempt to undo House passage of historic legislation Sunday night that extends health care to millions of Americans.
The vote was 232-199 against the GOP effort.
Republicans tried a procedural move to redo the bill moments after the House had passed …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Democrats reject Republican attempt to undo just-passed health care bill.

House Roll Call: Health care overhaul

House Roll Call: Health care overhaul
The 219-212 roll call Sunday by which the House passed the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act.

A “yes” vote is a vote to pass the bill.
Voting yes were 219 Democrats and 0 Republicans.
Voting no were 34 Democrats and 178 Republicans.
There are 4 vacancies in the 435-member House.

ALABAMA

Democrats – Bright, N; … Original source on Gaea Times at : House Roll Call: Health care overhaul.

Hekmatyar gives Karzai 15 demands for possible peace pact with Govt.

KABUL – The Al-Qaeda-linked militant organization Hezb-e-Islami has handed over a list of 15 demands to the Afghan Government, as Afghan President Hamid Karzai’s moves towards a political dialogue with insurgent groups gathered pace.ezb-e-Islami spokesman, Harun Zarghun, said that a five-man delegation representing its leader and former Prime Minister Gulbuddin Hekmatyar, arrived in Kabul ten … Read : Hekmatyar gives Karzai 15 demands for possible peace pact with Govt..

Indian economy to grow 8.5 per cent next fiscal: Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh today said that the Indian economy would grow at 8.5 percent during the next fiscal.
Inaugurating a conference on building infrastructure hosted by the Planning Commission here, Dr Singh said: “Despite adverse global situation, the Indian economy grew by 6.7 percent during fiscal 2008-09, and it … Read more : Indian economy to grow 8.5 per cent next fiscal: Manmohan Singh.

‘Porky’ and ‘Bubba’ OK for candidates to use as nicknames on Ark. ballot, but ‘Colonel’ isn’t

‘Colonel’ not OK for Ark. ballot, but ‘Porky’ is

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – A retired Army colonel running for a U.S. Senate seat from Arkansas is criticizing a state law that prevents him from using his military title as a nickname on the ballot this spring. In Arkansas, that’s a privilege reserved for monikers such as …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : ‘Porky’ and ‘Bubba’ OK for candidates to use as nicknames on Ark. ballot, but ‘Colonel’ isn’t.

Qatar’s Deputy Premier meets Manmohan Singh

NEW DELHI – Qatar’s Deputy Premier and Minister of Energy and Industry, Abdullah Bin Hamad Al-Attiyah, met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh here on Monday.
The two reportedly discussed issues ranging from mutual cooperation to economic, commercial and energy ties between India and Qatar.
Earlier, Abdullah al-Attiyah, had said that Qatar is negotiating to supply India …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Qatar’s Deputy Premier meets Manmohan Singh.

Tea partiers vow revenge over health care overhaul, hope to kick out those who voted yes

Tea partiers vow revenge over health overhaul
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Tea party activists aren’t just angry that Democrats passed a major health care overhaul, they are out for revenge.
They do not see passage of the landmark reforms that usher in near-universal medical coverage as the end of the debate. Tea partiers instead … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Tea partiers vow revenge over health care overhaul, hope to kick out those who voted yes.

Terrorists have no religion: Nitin Gadkari

NEW DELHI – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) president Nitin Gadkari has said that a terrorist has no religion and can’t be classified as a Hindu or a Muslim.

“It is unfortunate that we identify people involved with certain terrorist activities according to their religious affiliations,” said Gadkari, adding that a terrorist has no caste, creed or … Original article on : Terrorists have no religion: Nitin Gadkari.

Romney: Health care bill unconstitutional, should be repealed and will cost Obama re-election

Romney: Health care bill will cost Obama 2nd term
SAN DIEGO – Former Republican presidential contender Mitt Romney says President Barack Obama’s new health care bill is unconstitutional, deserves to be repealed and will help cost the Democrat a second term.
The former Massachusetts governor made the remarks Monday after signing nearly 1,000 copies of … Read more »»».

DNC Chairman Tim Kaine: Victory on health care good for Democrats in the November election

DNC Chair Kaine: Health care win good for campaign
ATLANTA – Democratic National Committee Chairman Tim Kaine says the congressional victory on health care will be good for the country and for Democrats in the November elections.
Rallying the party faithful in Atlanta on Monday, less than 24 hours after the historic vote for near-universal …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : DNC Chairman Tim Kaine: Victory on health care good for Democrats in the November election.

In Washington, Clinton and Netanyahu present clashing positions on Jerusalem

Clinton, Netanyahu show clashing Jerusalem views
WASHINGTON – Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented dueling positions on Jerusalem construction Monday, underlining a recent spat between the allies while simultaneously suggesting the incident is behind them.
Israel recently announced new housing plans for east Jerusalem, the part of … Read this article on Gaea Times at : In Washington, Clinton and Netanyahu present clashing positions on Jerusalem.

Sudan President threatens to expel foreign observers who called for delaying April’s elections

Sudan prez threatens to expel election observers

CAIRO – Sudan’s president threatened Monday to expel foreign observers over their recommendations to delay the country’s first multiparty elections in decades due in April.
The April vote – Sudan’s first multiparty elections in decades – will see voters cast ballots for a national president, a southern president, local and …. Original article  : Sudan President threatens to expel foreign observers who called for delaying April’s elections.

Striking a defiant note in US, Netanyahu tells Jewish activists Jerusalem ‘not a settlement’

Netanyahu says Jerusalem ‘not a settlement’
WASHINGTON – Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu says Israel has the right to build in Jerusalem, saying the city is “not a settlement.”
Speaking to pro-Israel activists, Netanyahu said Monday night that Jewish neighborhoods in Jerusalem will remain part of Israel in any peace deal, so building there does … Original source on Gaea Times at : Striking a defiant note in US, Netanyahu tells Jewish activists Jerusalem ‘not a settlement’.

Hawaii representatives asking Obama to pick his birth state for presidential library

Hawaii asks Obama for presidential library
HONOLULU – Hawaii lawmakers are asking President Barack Obama to put his future presidential library in the state where he was born and raised.
The state House Tourism, Culture and International Affairs Committee unanimously passed a resolution Monday urging Obama to choose Hawaii as the location for the library, …. Source  : Hawaii representatives asking Obama to pick his birth state for presidential library.

California lawmakers take step to ban smoking at state parks, beaches under landmark bill

Calif. moves to ban smoking at all state parks

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California lawmakers on Monday moved a step closer to banning smoking at state beaches and parks, following the lead of hundreds of communities nationwide.
The state Assembly voted 42-27 in favor of the ban. Anti-smoking groups say the bill would make California the first state … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : California lawmakers take step to ban smoking at state parks, beaches under landmark bill.

Detective’s union says NYPD towing unmarked cars; department says illegal parking not allowed

Police union: NYPD towing its own unmarked cars

NEW YORK – The head of the New York Police Department’s detectives’ union says the NYPD has been towing its own unmarked cars and then paying detectives overtime to retrieve them from the pound.
Michael Palladino, president of the Detective’s Endowment Association, says that, over an 18 month span, … Original source on Gaea Times at : Detective’s union says NYPD towing unmarked cars; department says illegal parking not allowed.

Judge: Opponents of gay marriage ban must surrender campaign documents to Prop 8 backers

Opponents of gay marriage ban must release memos

SAN FRANCISCO – Civil rights groups that campaigned against California’s same-sex marriage ban must surrender some of their internal campaign memos and e-mails to lawyers for the other side, a federal judge ruled Monday.
U.S. District Chief Judge Vaughn Walker said sponsors of Proposition 8, the 2008 ballot initiative …. Original source  : Judge: Opponents of gay marriage ban must surrender campaign documents to Prop 8 backers.

From racist and anti-gay slurs to “baby killer!”: Health care debate marred by ugly discourse

Before health vote, a weekend of ugly discourse
NEW YORK – Remember how shocking it was six months ago when Rep. Joe Wilson shouted “You lie!” to the president?
Suddenly, that outburst seems positively genteel.
From the “N-word” and anti-gay slurs being leveled at congressmen by protesters right outside the Capitol, to a shout of “baby … Read more >>.

Obama thanks banking committee for sending Wall Street regulation bill to full Senate

Obama praises committee vote on Wall St. rules
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is praising the Democrats’ massive Wall Street regulation bill as it heads to the full Senate.
The Senate Banking Committee approved the measure along party lines Monday.
The legislation would give the government unprecedented powers to split up firms considered a threat to … Original article on : Obama thanks banking committee for sending Wall Street regulation bill to full Senate.

Health care success could mark the hard-driving Pelosi as one of the most powerful speakers

On health care, Pelosi kept Democrats thinking big
WASHINGTON – The landmark health care bill about to be signed into law is as large as it is due in no small part to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s stewardship. When Democrats in Congress and the White House were despondent and inclined to retreat … Original source on Gaea Times at : Health care success could mark the hard-driving Pelosi as one of the most powerful speakers.

Afghan president studying 15-point peace offer from militant group run by warlord

Karzai studying peace offer from militant group
KABUL – Afghan President Hamid Karzai held an unprecedented meeting Monday with representatives of a major Taliban-linked militant group, boosting his outreach to insurgency leaders to end the eight-year war.
Less certain is whether the talks with the weakened Hizb-i-Islami faction represent a game-changer in …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Afghan president studying 15-point peace offer from militant group run by warlord.

Puerto Rico’s Calle 13 to perform in Cuba despite protests by anti-Castro exiles in Miami

PR group to perform in Cuba despite Miami protests

HAVANA – Members of the Puerto Rican music group Calle 13 say they don’t care if their upcoming concert in Cuba is criticized by exiles in Miami who oppose the communist regime.
The award-winning group is set to perform Tuesday at the open-air Anti-imperialist Plaza, which sits in … Read more : Puerto Rico’s Calle 13 to perform in Cuba despite protests by anti-Castro exiles in Miami.

SUPREME COURT NOTEBOOK: Breyer, Scalia explain why they often disagree

Breyer, Scalia explain why they often disagree

WASHINGTON – Justice Antonin Scalia tends to see things as black or white. Justice Stephen Breyer sees a lot more gray.
When contentious decisions come down at the Supreme Court, Breyer and Scalia are almost always on opposite sides. On Tuesday, they tried to explain why their differing views of … Read more »».

Gordon Brown asked to pick gay partner from Young, Pitt, Mandelson!

LONDON – British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has been quizzed by a magazine for homosexuals if he would like a relationship with Lord Peter Mandelson.

The prime minister was asked by GT magazine if given a choice, who would he romance from the list of Will Young, Brad Pitt and Lord Mandelson.
“Oh, come on,” Brown told …. Source  : Gordon Brown asked to pick gay partner from Young, Pitt, Mandelson!.

Congress moves to feed more school children, takes aim at unhealthy school lunches

Congress takes aim at unhealthy school lunches

WASHINGTON – Greasy pizzas and high-calorie desserts may be less frequent lunchtime treats for schoolchildren under a popular bill that the Senate Agriculture Committee is expected to approve Wednesday.
The wide-ranging nutrition legislation has support from health advocates and many food companies.
It would allow the Agriculture Department to create uniform …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Congress moves to feed more school children, takes aim at unhealthy school lunches.

BJP slams Delhi government for imposing fresh taxes

NEW DELHI – The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) staged a demonstration outside the residence of Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit to protest against increase in prices of essential items and imposition of Value Added Tax on items of daily use.

Carrying placards and an eight-foot-high cut-out of a milk bottle, a large number of activists gathered …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

CPI-M demands explanation from PM on increasing Maoist violence

NEW DELHI – CPI (M) politburo member Sitaram Yechury has said that Prime Minister Manmohan Singh owes an explanation on increasing Maoists violence, despite repeated announcements by him that the dangers posed by the ultras happen to be the gravest threat to the country’s internal security.
Talking to reporters here on Tuesday, Yechury said: … Read more »».

Joe Biden F-Bomb

New York (GaeaTimes.com) Breaking News. The Vice President of the United States of America, Joe Bidden used the forbidden f-word on Live TV.
Gasp.
Can you imagine that?
President Obama entered the East Room after he was introduced by Bidden. The vice president stepped away from the podium and gave him a hug. Turning to Obama …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

N-deal, India talks on Pakistan wish list, US non-committal

WASHINGTON – Pakistan is going into a strategic dialogue with the US with a long wish list, including an India-type civil nuclear deal and a direct Washington role in reviving the peace process with New Delhi. But the US is non-committal.
Though the State Department declined to acknowledge that Pakistan had made the demands …. Read the original article  : here.

Women’s reservation will provoke young men to whistle in parliament : Mulayam

LUCKNOW – Samajwadi Party president Mulayam Singh Yadav has said the women’s reservation bill, if passed, would “provoke young men to whistle” in parliament.

Asked to comment on the women’s reservation bill, he told a TV channel here Tuesday, “If the women’s reservation bill were to be passed in its existing form, it would result in …. Read the original article  : Women’s reservation will provoke young men to whistle in parliament : Mulayam.

Cubans flock to Havana waterfront for Calle 13 show; band braces for Miami political backlash

Calle 13 rocks Cuba, braces for Miami backlash
HAVANA – Puerto Rico’s Calle 13 brought its edgy mix of reggaeton and hip-hop to Cuba’s capital on Tuesday, rocking thousands of screaming fans from an outdoor stage while serving up a heaping dose of bitterness toward U.S. policy.
The Grammy-winning group played in front of towering … Original source on Gaea Times at : Cubans flock to Havana waterfront for Calle 13 show; band braces for Miami political backlash.

Watchdog report says Treasury creates ‘meaningless’ goal for $75B mortgage assistance plan

Watchdog report criticizes Obama mortgage plan

WASHINGTON – A government watchdog is criticizing the Obama administration for establishing a “meaningless” goal for its flagship mortgage assistance program.
The report issued late Tuesday by Neil Barofsky, the special inspector general for the Troubled Asset Relief Program, says the Obama administration is measuring the performance of the program by … Read more >>>.

Rewind! SC filmmaker claims channels promoted his film, then aired soft-core porn of same name

SC filmmaker: Channels showed porn, not his comedy

COLUMBIA, S.C. – A former South Carolina lawmaker is suing cable TV channels HBO and Showtime, claiming they promoted his low-budget comedy about Appalachia called “The Hills Have Thighs” only to instead show a soft-core pornographic movie with the same title.
James “Bubba” Cromer said the mix-up defamed him … Original article on : Rewind! SC filmmaker claims channels promoted his film, then aired soft-core porn of same name.

Judge: Wife, father of ex-Detroit mayor must answer questions in suit tied to stripper’s death

Ex-mayor’s family to be deposed in stripper case

DETROIT – A judge has ordered the wife and father of former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick to answer questions in a civil lawsuit tied to the fatal shooting of a stripper.
The family of Tamara Greene claims Kilpatrick and others stifled a probe of her 2003 death. Greene, who …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

White House to 13 state attorneys general suing over health care overhaul: Bring it on

White House, experts: Health care suit will fail
TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The White House says it isn’t worried that 13 state attorneys general are suing to overturn the massive health care overhaul, and many legal experts agree the effort is futile.
But the lawsuit, filed in federal court seven minutes after President Barack … Read more »»».

Ex-NJ Gov. Corzine lands 1-year job at Princeton, full-time post with Wall Street firm

Ex-NJ Gov. Corzine lands at Princeton, Wall Street

PRINCETON, N.J. – Two months after leaving office, former New Jersey Gov. Jon Corzine (KOHR’-zyn) has two new jobs.
Wall Street options and futures firm MF Global Holdings Ltd. announced Tuesday that Corzine is its new CEO and chairman, effective immediately.
And Princeton University announced Corzine would be a visiting … Read more >>>.

A look at some of the numbers defining Obama’s health care overhaul

A by-the-numbers look at health care overhaul

Highlights of health care overhaul, by the numbers:
-32 million: Non-elderly, uninsured Americans who will be covered by the health care bill, signed into law Tuesday by President Barack Obama.
-23 million: People who will remain uninsured, including illegal immigrants.
-$938 billion: Cost of the measure over 10 years.
-2,409: Pages in the … Read more »».

Elderly Conn. woman says sister refuses to split $500K lottery prize despite sharing contract

Elderly Conn. sisters battle in court over jackpot

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. – Among the nine siblings in their family, Rose Bakaysa and her younger sister Theresa Sokaitis always shared a special bond.
As they hit their 70s and 80s, their dream of jackpot riches became a centerpiece of that connection, fueling regular road trips to Foxwoods Resort …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Elderly Conn. woman says sister refuses to split $500K lottery prize despite sharing contract.

California groups plan to appeal judge’s order on gay marriage campaign documents

Groups to appeal ruling on gay marriage documents

SAN FRANCISCO – Two civil rights groups have notified a federal judge that they intend to appeal his decision requiring them to surrender internal documents from their campaign against California’s same-sex marriage ban.
The American Civil Liberties Union and Equality California notified U.S. District Judge Vaughn Walker on Tuesday … Read more >>.

Judge won’t force Miss. district to hold prom canceled after lesbian asked to bring girlfriend

Judge won’t force Miss. district to hold prom

JACKSON, Miss. – A Mississippi school district violated a lesbian student’s rights by banning her from bringing her girlfriend to the prom, a federal judge ruled Tuesday, but he stopped short of forcing the district to hold the event.
U.S. District Judge Glen H. Davidson denied an American Civil …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Judge won’t force Miss. district to hold prom canceled after lesbian asked to bring girlfriend.

Broadcasters interrupt programming for Obama’s signing of health care legislation

Health care overhaul is boon to TV networks
NEW YORK – Television networks recognized a historical event Tuesday by breaking into programming as President Barack Obama signed legislation changing the nation’s health care system.
ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox all cut into regular daytime programs, and the event earned wall-to-wall coverage on MSNBC – including … Original article on : Broadcasters interrupt programming for Obama’s signing of health care legislation.

Live from Minneapolis! Franken enlists ‘Saturday Night Live’ star to help raise cash for Dems

Franken enlists ‘SNL’ star to raise campaign funds

MINNEAPOLIS – Live from Minneapolis, it’s Al Franken and “Saturday Night Live” star Seth Meyers!
Minnesota’s junior Democratic senator spent much of the 2008 campaign downplaying his years on NBC’s sketch comedy show. But he’s embracing those roots this weekend with a fundraiser for his political action committee featuring …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Live from Minneapolis! Franken enlists ‘Saturday Night Live’ star to help raise cash for Dems.

Official: Leading blocs in Iraqi parliamentary elections will have margin of only 1 or 2 seats

Iraq: top electoral blocs separated by slim margin

BAGHDAD – The head of Iraq’s election commission says the leading blocs in the country’s parliamentary race are separated by a slim one or two seat margin.
Independent High Electoral Commission chief Faraj al-Haidari also told The Associated Press on Thursday that vote tallying is complete and the commission …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Government yet to move on women’s bill talks

NEW DELHI – The government is yet to initiate discussions with “all concerned” on the women’s reservation bill, cleared by the Rajya Sabha and slated to be presented in the Lok Sabha when parliament resumes April 15 after a three-week break.
“I have no idea,” a minister told IANS Thursday when asked about the …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rahul to visit Amethi Friday

LUCKNOW – Congress general secretary Rahul Gandhi will Friday embark on a two-day visit of his parliamentary constituency Amethi, a party spokesperson said Thursday.

“Rahulji will review the progress of developmental projects funded by the central government in Amethi,” Akhilesh Pratap Singh told reporters here.
“He will participate in the district vigilance committee meeting with the … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rahul to visit Amethi Friday.

Assam opposition divided before Rajya Sabha polls

GUWAHATI – The ruling Congress in Assam has kept the opposition on tenterhooks over Friday’s Rajya Sabha polls, with the Asom Gana Parishad (AGP) suspending a legislator who has vowed to vote against the party-backed candidate.

The AGP late Wednesday suspended Abdul Aziz on charges of anti-party activities after he made a public statement that he … Original source on Gaea Times at : Assam opposition divided before Rajya Sabha polls.

Babri mosque demolition: IPS officer Gupta to appear in Rae Bareilly court

RAE BAREILLY – Senior Indian Police Service (IPS) officer Anju Gupta, who is on deputation with the Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) in Delhi might record her testimony as a witness for the prosecution against senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Lal Krishna Advani and other Sangh Parivar leaders in a Rae Bareilly court on … Original article on : Babri mosque demolition: IPS officer Gupta to appear in Rae Bareilly court.

Democrats deal with broken windows, obscene threats over support for health care overhaul

Dems deal with threats over health care support
Democratic Congress members are getting lessons from the FBI on how to handle threats such as several directed at their colleagues, including bricks hurled through windows and menacing obscenity-laced phone messages left for those who supported sweeping federal health care legislation.
Windows were shattered at four Democratic … Read more »».

Looking to end claims backlog, VA considers replacing mountains of files with paperless system

VA tests system for electronic disability claims

BALTIMORE – If the backlog of veterans’ disability claims ever has a chance of being eliminated, there’s one key step: going paperless.
But how to get rid of the volumes of paperwork in exchange for a fully electronic system is the quandary, and one Veterans Affairs Secretary Eric Shinseki wants …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Looking to end claims backlog, VA considers replacing mountains of files with paperless system.

Pak took up issue of India’s ‘intrusion’ in Afghanistan with US : Gilani

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani has said that Islamabad has taken up the issue of India’s ‘intrusion’ in Afghanistan with both New Delhi and the United States.

Addressing the Senate, Gilani said he had a detailed meeting with US National Security Adviser General. James Jones over India’s expanding presence in Afghanistan.
Pakistan has been …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Pak took up issue of India’s ‘intrusion’ in Afghanistan with US : Gilani.

US encourages India-Pakistan talks, rules out mediation

WASHINGTON – Ruling out a mediatory role between India and Pakistan, the US has said that while it welcomed a dialogue between the two South Asian nations, including on the issue of Kashmir, the modalities were for them to decide.
“Well, we’ve always welcomed dialogue and better relations between India and Pakistan, including on … Read : US encourages India-Pakistan talks, rules out mediation.

Closure appears near for unusual collision of abortion, immigration politics in Nebraska

Immigration concerns trump abortion worry in Neb.

LINCOLN, Neb. – Opposition to taxpayer benefits for illegal immigrants appears to have trumped anti-abortion sentiments in Nebraska, likely ending an unusual collision of the two explosive political issues.
After meeting with Gov. Dave Heineman on Wednesday night, a lawmaker said the governor opposed a compromise that would continue providing …. Source article  : Closure appears near for unusual collision of abortion, immigration politics in Nebraska.

Pakistan makes no headway with US on n-deal, Kashmir

WASHINGTON – Pakistan appeared to have found little encouragement from the US as it raised two of its pet peeves – an India-type civil nuclear deal and mediation on Kashmir – at their first strategic dialogue here.
The very first question that US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton fielded at the end of the …. Read the original article  : Pakistan makes no headway with US on n-deal, Kashmir.

Gates to order top-level review for gays discharged from military over ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’

Discharging gays to draw more scrutiny in military
WASHINGTON – Discharging a gay person for violating the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy will draw unprecedented scrutiny under new orders from Defense Secretary Robert Gates, who is already pushing to repeal the ban on gays serving openly in the U.S. military.
Guidelines to …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Black Ohio woman who saw Barack Obama’s inauguration from her wheelchair dies at 106

Ohio woman who saw Obama inauguration dies at 106
CLEVELAND – A black woman who attended Barack Obama’s inauguration in her wheelchair shortly after her 105th birthday has died.
Former social worker Ella Mae Johnson made the journey to Washington, D.C., with her nurse in January 2009 and watched as the nation’s first black president …. Source article  : Black Ohio woman who saw Barack Obama’s inauguration from her wheelchair dies at 106.

Gen. Petraeus in New Hampshire: ‘I will not ever run for political office’

Petraeus denies political side to NH trip
MANCHESTER, N.H. – Gen. David Petraeus, the top U.S. commander in Iraq and Afghanistan, took the stage Wednesday where presidential candidates have debated but said his visit had nothing to do with politics or New Hampshire, home to the first presidential primaries.

Petraeus has been talked about as a potential … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Gen. Petraeus in New Hampshire: ‘I will not ever run for political office’.

Miami federal judge lifts stay blocking former Panama dictator Noriega’s extradition to France

Judge lifts stay blocking Noriega’s extradition

MIAMI – A Miami federal judge has lifted a stay blocking former Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega from being extradited to France.
U.S. District Judge Paul Huck issued the order Wednesday, two days after the U.S. Supreme Court said it would not reconsider Noriega’s request to stop his extradition to France on … Original source on Gaea Times at : Miami federal judge lifts stay blocking former Panama dictator Noriega’s extradition to France.

Democrats who voted for the health care overhaul targeted with threats, bricks through windows

Hurled bricks, threats surround health overhaul
Unrest over sweeping federal health care legislation has turned to vandalism and threats, with bricks hurled through Democrats’ windows, a propane line cut at the home of a congressman’s brother and menacing phone messages left for lawmakers who supported the bill.
The FBI is investigating the instances, which include …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

French sex workers protest proposal to legalize brothels, say they want independence

French sex workers protest legal brothels
PARIS – Dozens of French sex workers proclaiming themselves proud to be prostitutes marched Wednesday to protest a lawmaker’s proposal to legalize brothels in France, arguing that such a law would deny them the freedom to work on their own.

A lawmaker in France’s governing party has proposed reopening brothels just …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : French sex workers protest proposal to legalize brothels, say they want independence.

Bigger hospitals do better job at treating heart problems, pneumonia, study suggests

Bigger hospitals may treat some conditions better

LOS ANGELES – People hospitalized with a heart attack, heart failure or pneumonia fare better if they are admitted someplace that treats a lot of those problems, a large study of Medicare patients finds.
Busier hospitals on average tended to have lower rates of death from these three common conditions … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Bigger hospitals do better job at treating heart problems, pneumonia, study suggests.

Judge’s bold intervention in 9/11 health case raises eyebrows, draws praise and criticism

Judge’s action in 9/11 health case raises eyebrows

NEW YORK – Experts say a federal judge pushed the limits of his legal authority when he rejected a settlement that would have paid at least $575 million to thousands of people who fell ill after working in the toxic ash of the World Trade Center.
Legal scholars are … Read more : Judge’s bold intervention in 9/11 health case raises eyebrows, draws praise and criticism.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 3/24/10

Mark A. Griffon, of New Hampshire, to be a Member of the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board for a term of five years, vice Carolyn W. Merritt, term expired.

Rafael Moure-Eraso, of Massachusetts, to be a Member of the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board for a term of five years, vice Gary Lee Visscher, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 3/24/10.

2 Israeli soldiers, 1 Palestinian killed in worst clashes in Gaza Strip since last year’s war

Fierce fighting in Gaza Strip kills 3
JERUSALEM – Two Israeli soldiers and a Palestinian civilian were killed Friday as a gunbattle between troops and Palestinian militants widened into some of the fiercest fighting in the Gaza Strip since Israel’s military offensive there last year.

Gaza’s Islamic Hamas rulers confirmed their gunmen were involved in Friday’s violence … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : 2 Israeli soldiers, 1 Palestinian killed in worst clashes in Gaza Strip since last year’s war.

President Obama Nominates Two as Associate Judges for the Superior Court of the District of Columbia

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, President Obama nominated Todd E. Edelman and Judge Judith Anne Smith as Associate Judges for the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.   Judge Smith currently serves as a magistrate judge on the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.  Edelman is a Visiting Associate Professor of Law at Georgetown University Law … Read this article on Gaea Times at : President Obama Nominates Two as Associate Judges for the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 3/25/10

Robert R. Almonte, of Texas, to be United States Marshal for the Western District of Texas for the term of four years, vice LaFayette Collins.

Todd E. Edelman, of the District of Columbia, to be an Associate Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for the term of fifteen years, vice Cheryl M. … Read more : Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 3/25/10.

Presidential Proclamation – Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A.

A PROCLAMATION
To secure a bright future for America, we must instill in our children a love of learning as well as a spirit of compassion. These are two of our Nation’s most cherished and enduring values. Today, let us rededicate ourselves to preparing our next generation of leaders for the world they will inherit.

For America … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Presidential Proclamation — Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A..

Allawi vows to work with all parties in Iraq

BAGHDAD – Former Prime Minister Ayad Allawi said Friday he will work with all parties to form a new government, after his Iraqiya list won the most seats in the parliamentary election.

Allawi won 91 seats in the 325-seat parliament, only two seats ahead of prime minister Nuri al-Maliki’s State of Law coalition, the Independent High …. Original source  : Allawi vows to work with all parties in Iraq.

Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 3433

On Thursday, March 25, 2010 the President signed into law:
H.R. 3433, which amends the North American Wetlands Conservation Act to allow up to 50 percent of the required non-federal match for wetlands conservation projects in Canada to be comprised of funds from Canadian sources.
… Original article on : Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 3433.

President Obama Nominates Three to Serve as U.S. Marshals

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, President Obama nominated Robert R. Almonte, Dallas S. Neville and Frank Leon-Guerrero to serve as U.S. Marshals. 

“These dedicated law enforcement professionals have spent their careers protecting their fellow Americans,” said President Obama. “Their selfless dedication to public service is unmatched, and I am honored to nominate them to serve the American people … Read more : President Obama Nominates Three to Serve as U.S. Marshals.

President Obama Nominates Judge Mary H. Murguia for United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, President Obama nominated Judge Mary H. Murguia for a seat on the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.  Judge Murguia currently serves as a United States District Judge for the District of Arizona.

“Judge Murguia has displayed an outstanding commitment to public service throughout her career and as a District …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : President Obama Nominates Judge Mary H. Murguia for United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.

President Obama Nominates Three to Serve as U.S. Attorneys

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, President Obama nominated Melinda L. Haag, Jerry E. Martin and James A. Lewis to serve as U.S. Attorneys. 

“Today, I am honored to nominate these highly respected legal professionals as United States Attorneys,” President Obama said. “They will be unwavering in their commitment to justice and I am confident they will serve the [..] Read the original article: here.

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 3/26/10

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key administration posts:

Steve A. Linick, Inspector General, Federal Housing Finance Agency
Thomas Hicks, Commissioner, Election Assistance Commission
President Obama said, “The expertise and commitment to public service these individuals bring to their roles will make them tremendous assets to my administration. I …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 3/26/10.

Southern Calif. courts asked to free mentally disabled immigrants held years in detention

Calif. courts asked to free mentally disabled

LOS ANGELES – Civil rights groups on Friday asked the federal courts to free two mentally disabled men who have been held in immigration detention for up to five years after they were ruled incompetent to face deportation proceedings.
Petitions filed in Los Angeles and San Diego contend the men … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Southern Calif. courts asked to free mentally disabled immigrants held years in detention.

A look at seat distribution in Iraq’s parliament according to complete vote returns

Iraq’s new parliament seat distribution
A look at the distribution of seats in Iraq’s parliament from each province, after full vote returns from the March 7 parliamentary elections. In the 325-seat parliament, there are 310 general seats, 8 seats for Christians and other minorities and 7 compensatory seats.

-Anbar province (14 seats):
Ayad Allawi’s Iraqiya ………………..11 seats
Iraqi (Sunni) … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : A look at seat distribution in Iraq’s parliament according to complete vote returns.

Court OK’s Seattle police use of stun gun on pregnant woman stopped for school zone speeding

Court: Seattle police OK to stun pregnant woman

SEATTLE – Three Seattle police officers were justified when they used a stun gun on a pregnant mother who refused to sign a traffic ticket, a federal appeals court ruled Friday in a case that prompted an incredulous dissent.
Malaika Brooks was driving her son to Seattle’s African American …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Court OK’s Seattle police use of stun gun on pregnant woman stopped for school zone speeding.

Lawyer: No wrongdoing by Paterson despite report of disputed statement in aide’s domestic case

Lawyer: No wrongdoing by Paterson over statement

ALBANY, N.Y. – Gov. David Paterson’s attorney said the governor has done nothing wrong amid a media report that he helped draft what would have been a misleading public statement about a top aide’s domestic violence case.
The New York Times reported Friday that Paterson told his press secretary on … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Lawyer: No wrongdoing by Paterson despite report of disputed statement in aide’s domestic case.

Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 4938 and S. 3186

On Friday, March 26, 2010, the President signed into law:
H.R. 4938, which extends temporary authority under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) to guarantee up to 90 percent of loans in the Small Business Administration’s section 7(a) Loan Program through April 30, 2010; and permits the use of previously appropriated funds to cover the … Original article on : Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 4938 and S. 3186.

Tea Party of Nevada candidate hit with felony bad check charges, faces home foreclosure

Nevada candidate facing felony bad check charges

LAS VEGAS – A Nevada asphalt contractor who is running under the Tea Party of Nevada banner to unseat Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid has been hit with felony theft and bad check charges in Las Vegas.
Court documents filed Friday show Scott Ashjian is accused of bouncing a $5,000 … Original article on : Tea Party of Nevada candidate hit with felony bad check charges, faces home foreclosure.

Attorney general apologizes for failing to give Senate friend-of-the-court briefs on Padilla

Holder apologizes to Kyl, Sessions on disclosure

WASHINGTON – Attorney General Eric Holder is apologizing for failing to send the Senate Judiciary Committee Supreme Court briefs he signed regarding the case of convicted terrorism plotter Jose Padilla.
In a letter to Republican Sens. Jeff Sessions of Alabama and Jon Kyl of Arizona, the attorney general said Friday …. Original source  : Attorney general apologizes for failing to give Senate friend-of-the-court briefs on Padilla.

Nebraska voters will have chance to ax 155-year-old state treasurer’s office in November

Neb. voters have chance to ax treasurer’s office

LINCOLN, Neb. – Nebraska lawmakers put the state treasurer’s office on the chopping block Friday, giving voters the chance to eliminate the 155-year-old office in November.
Current State Treasurer Shane Osborn, who is not running for re-election, has called it a bad idea that could cost the state more … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Nebraska voters will have chance to ax 155-year-old state treasurer’s office in November.

2 Israeli soldiers, 1 Palestinian killed in clashes with militants in Gaza Strip

2 Israeli soldiers, 1 Palestinian killed in Gaza

JERUSALEM – Two Israeli soldiers and a Palestinian civilian were killed Friday as a gunbattle between troops and Palestinian militants widened into in some of the fiercest fighting in the Gaza Strip since Israel’s military offensive there last year.
Gaza’s Islamic Hamas rulers confirmed their gunmen were involved in … Read more >>.

White House says Obama will sign final piece of health care overhaul on Tuesday in Virginia

Obama to sign last bit of health overhaul Tuesday
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama plans to sign the final piece of his health care overhaul on Tuesday.
The White House said Obama would sign Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 at Northern Virginia Community College, just outside Washington.
Congress delivered Obama a key victory …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Iraq vote winner and ex-premier says he wants to negotiate with all parties to form government

Iraqi vote winner hopes to form government soon

BAGHDAD – The top vote-getter in Iraq’s parliamentary elections says he wants to negotiate with all parties to form a government that can restore Iraq’s place in the Arab and Muslim world.
Former Prime Minister Ayad Allawi says his Iraqiya alliance is “open to talks with all” and says …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Malaysian Indian Congress bids for by-election

KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC), a member of the ruling alliance, hopes to field its deputy president to re-claim a parliament seat which Prime Minister Najib Tun Razak has said it is capable of winning.

The MIC has indicated its choice of G. Palanivel, a journalist-turned-politician, to contest from Hulu in Selangor state …. Source  : Malaysian Indian Congress bids for by-election.

Thailand protesters demonstrate in bid to force military out of the capital’s streets

Thailand protesters try to oust army from streets

BANGKOK – Tens of thousands of red-shirted protesters threatened to force soldiers from the historic heart of Thailand’s capital, raising tensions in what so far has been a nonviolent bid to bring down the government.
Riding on motorcycles and in pickup trucks, the protesters traveled in a noisy parade … Original source on Gaea Times at : Thailand protesters demonstrate in bid to force military out of the capital’s streets.

Bangalore votes Sunday to elect civic body

BANGALORE – More than 6.6 million Bangaloreans are eligible to vote Sunday to elect a 198-member civic body from some 1,300 candidates who include doctors, a transgender and people with criminal cases.

There is a Queen Elizabeth fighting on Congress ticket. Another woman contestant, Marimuthu, dubbed ‘Hooch Queen’ for alleged involvement in illicit liquor trade, has … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Bangalore votes Sunday to elect civic body.

Slow justice contradicts India’s democratic strengths: PM

NEW DELHI – India’s legal and judicial system reflects “great contradiction”, Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Saturday urging that the justice delivery mechanism needed to be expedited to strengthen the country’s democratic roots.
“The Indian legal and judicial system is one of the solid pillars of our democracy… Our government attaches great importance to … Original article on : Slow justice contradicts India’s democratic strengths: PM.

Myanmar’s junta chief sets ground rules for historic polls, warns army can step in if needed

Myanmar junta chief sets ground rules for polls

NAYPYITAW, Myanmar – Myanmar’s junta chief warned political parties to behave while campaigning for historic elections later this year, noting Saturday that the armed forces can take part in politics “whenever the need arises.”
In his annual national address, Senior Gen. Than Shwe maintained his silence on when Myanmar’s …. Source article  : Myanmar’s junta chief sets ground rules for historic polls, warns army can step in if needed.

Congress will profit from DMK’s sibling rivalry (Comment)

Just as sibling rivalry can cause fissures in a corporate empire, political parties too can break up for similar reasons.

One recent example was the disintegration of the Shiv Sena in Maharashtra because the two cousins, Raj and Uddhav Thackeray, could not get along with each other. Now, another state-based organisation, the DMK of Tamil Nadu, …. Read the original article  : Congress will profit from DMK’s sibling rivalry (Comment).

Abortion ban proposal to be on Colorado ballot

Abortion ban proposal to be on Colo. ballot

DENVER – A proposal to ban abortion in Colorado will be on state ballots this fall.
The Secretary of State’s Office said Friday that Colorado-based Personhood USA submitted enough valid signatures to put an abortion-ending proposal to a statewide vote this fall. The proposal would give unborn fetuses human …. Original source  : Abortion ban proposal to be on Colorado ballot.

UN chief hails new US-Russia pact on arms cut

UNITED NATIONS – The new agreement between Russia and the US to reduce their arsenals is an “important milestone” in global efforts to rid the world of nuclear weapons, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has said.
Negotiations between the two nuclear powers on a successor agreement to the Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START), wrapped up … Read : UN chief hails new US-Russia pact on arms cut.

Sarah Palin lends star power to ex-running mate John McCain in his Senate re-election campaign

Palin lends her star power to McCain in Senate bid

TUCSON, Ariz. – Sarah Palin lent her star power among fellow conservatives to former running mate John McCain in his tough Senate re-election campaign, telling a rally Friday that McCain pegged President Barack Obama right when he said the Democrat would swell the size of government.
McCain …. Source  : Sarah Palin lends star power to ex-running mate John McCain in his Senate re-election campaign.

2 Israeli soldiers, 1 Palestinian killed in worst clashes in Gaza Strip since last year’s war

Fierce fighting in Gaza Strip kills 3
JERUSALEM – Two Israeli soldiers and a Palestinian civilian were killed Friday as a gunbattle between troops and Palestinian militants widened into some of the fiercest fighting in the Gaza Strip since Israel’s military offensive there last year.

Gaza’s Islamic Hamas rulers confirmed their gunmen were involved in Friday’s violence …. Original article  : 2 Israeli soldiers, 1 Palestinian killed in worst clashes in Gaza Strip since last year’s war.

President Obama Nominates Two as Associate Judges for the Superior Court of the District of Columbia

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, President Obama nominated Todd E. Edelman and Judge Judith Anne Smith as Associate Judges for the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.   Judge Smith currently serves as a magistrate judge on the Superior Court of the District of Columbia.  Edelman is a Visiting Associate Professor of Law at Georgetown University Law … Read more »».

Presidential Nominations Sent to the Senate, 3/25/10

Robert R. Almonte, of Texas, to be United States Marshal for the Western District of Texas for the term of four years, vice LaFayette Collins.

Todd E. Edelman, of the District of Columbia, to be an Associate Judge of the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for the term of fifteen years, vice Cheryl M. …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Presidential Proclamation – Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A.

A PROCLAMATION
To secure a bright future for America, we must instill in our children a love of learning as well as a spirit of compassion. These are two of our Nation’s most cherished and enduring values. Today, let us rededicate ourselves to preparing our next generation of leaders for the world they will inherit.

For America …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Presidential Proclamation — Education and Sharing Day, U.S.A..

Allawi vows to work with all parties in Iraq

BAGHDAD – Former Prime Minister Ayad Allawi said Friday he will work with all parties to form a new government, after his Iraqiya list won the most seats in the parliamentary election.

Allawi won 91 seats in the 325-seat parliament, only two seats ahead of prime minister Nuri al-Maliki’s State of Law coalition, the Independent High …. Original source  : Allawi vows to work with all parties in Iraq.

Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 3433

On Thursday, March 25, 2010 the President signed into law:
H.R. 3433, which amends the North American Wetlands Conservation Act to allow up to 50 percent of the required non-federal match for wetlands conservation projects in Canada to be comprised of funds from Canadian sources.
… Original source on Gaea Times at : Statement by the Press Secretary on H.R. 3433.

President Obama Nominates Three to Serve as U.S. Marshals

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, President Obama nominated Robert R. Almonte, Dallas S. Neville and Frank Leon-Guerrero to serve as U.S. Marshals. 

“These dedicated law enforcement professionals have spent their careers protecting their fellow Americans,” said President Obama. “Their selfless dedication to public service is unmatched, and I am honored to nominate them to serve the American people … Read more : President Obama Nominates Three to Serve as U.S. Marshals.

President Obama Nominates Judge Mary H. Murguia for United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, President Obama nominated Judge Mary H. Murguia for a seat on the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.  Judge Murguia currently serves as a United States District Judge for the District of Arizona.

“Judge Murguia has displayed an outstanding commitment to public service throughout her career and as a District …. Original source  : President Obama Nominates Judge Mary H. Murguia for United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.

President Obama Nominates Three to Serve as U.S. Attorneys

WASHINGTON, DC- Today, President Obama nominated Melinda L. Haag, Jerry E. Martin and James A. Lewis to serve as U.S. Attorneys. 

“Today, I am honored to nominate these highly respected legal professionals as United States Attorneys,” President Obama said. “They will be unwavering in their commitment to justice and I am confident they will serve the … Read : President Obama Nominates Three to Serve as U.S. Attorneys.

President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 3/26/10

WASHINGTON – Today, President Barack Obama announced his intent to nominate the following individuals to key administration posts:

Steve A. Linick, Inspector General, Federal Housing Finance Agency
Thomas Hicks, Commissioner, Election Assistance Commission
President Obama said, “The expertise and commitment to public service these individuals bring to their roles will make them tremendous assets to my administration. I …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : President Obama Announces More Key Administration Posts, 3/26/10.

Modi questioning a big step forward: SIT chief

NEW DELHI/AHMEDABAD – R.K. Raghavan, chief of the Supreme Court-appointed probe panel that quizzed Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi over the 2002 riots, said the questioning of Modi was a very big step forward in completing investigation into the communal carnage that claimed over 1,000 lives.

Modi was questioned for nearly 10 hours Saturday in Gandhinagar …. Original source  : Modi questioning a big step forward: SIT chief.

Maoists must disband its armed wing: Nepali leader

KATHMANDU – Ram Chandra Poudel, leader of the parliamentary party of the Nepali Congress (NC), Sunday said that his party would support the Maoist bid to return to power “if they gave up violence and disbanded the Maoist army”.

Poudel told the visiting Indian media: “If the Maoists try to move a no-confidence motion against the …. Original article  : Maoists must disband its armed wing: Nepali leader.

CJI, Modi share dais at law college convocation

GANDHINAGAR – A day after he was questioned by a Supreme Court-appointed panel over his alleged role in the 2002 Gujarat riots, Chief Minister Narendra Modi shared the dais with Chief Justice of India K.G. Balakrishnan here Sunday at the first annual convocation of the Gujarat National Law University.

Modi was reportedly keen that his questioning [..] Read the original article: here.

Vajpayee undergoes routine check-up at AIIMS

NEW DELHI – Former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee Sunday underwent “routine check-up” at the premier All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) here, doctors said.

“He came to the hospital at 10.30 a.m. and left at around 1 p.m. after various routine tests were conducted on him. He had come for routine check-up,” AIIMS … Read more >>.

Thai premier agrees to meet protestors as tensions rise

BANGKOK – Thailand’s prime minister and anti-government protest leaders agreed to talk Sunday in an effort to defuse political tensions that turned violent on the weekend.

Officials said Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva and leaders of the United Front for Democracy against Dictatorship (UDD), were set to meet at 4 p.m.
Demonstrators who had gathered outside the …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Thai premier agrees to meet protestors as tensions rise.

10 percent voting in first 4 hours of Bangalore civic poll

BANGALORE – Around 10 percent of more than 6.6 million Bangaloreans eligible to vote to elect the city’s civic body cast their ballots in the first four hours of polling Sunday.

IT major Infosys founder and chief mentor N. Narayana Murthy, low-cost aviation pioneer Capt. R. Gopinath, and Lokayukta (anti-corruption ombudsman) N. Santosh Hegde, a retired …. Original source  : 10 percent voting in first 4 hours of Bangalore civic poll.

Barbara Bush Hospitalized

HOUSTON, TEXAS (GaeaTimes.com)- A family spokesperson has revealed that former first lady Barbara Bush has been admitted to a hospital for undergoing certain routine tests on the advise of the family doctor. It has come to light that the 84 year old ex-first lady was hospitalized after she had been unwell for a period … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Barbara Bush Hospitalized.

Tibetan exiles’ meet to discuss candidate for PM-in-exile

DHARAMSALA – Members of the National Democratic Party of Tibet (NDPT), the only political party of Tibetan exiles, gathered here to discuss a candidate for the post of Tibetan prime minister-in-exile.

The elections of the Kalon Tripa (Tibetan PM) will … Original article on : Tibetan exiles’ meet to discuss candidate for PM-in-exile.

Italians vote in local elections seen as test of Premier Berlusconi’s popularity

Italians hold local elections, test for Berlusconi

ROME – Voters began casting ballots Sunday in Italy’s regional elections, which are being seen as an important test of popularity for Premier Silvio Berlusconi.
The conservative leader campaigned relentlessly for the Sunday-Monday ballot, urging his supporters to vote and avert the risk of low turnout. He has seen his … Read more >>>.

Barbara Bush hospitalised

WASHINGTON – Barbara Bush, wife of former US president George H.W. Bush, has been hospitalised, a media report said Sunday.

Barbara was taken to hospital Saturday morning after “not feeling well”, Los Angeles Times quoted a family spokeswoman as saying.
Eightyfour-year-old Barbara was admitted to Methodist Hospital in Houston at 10 a.m. to undergo routine … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Barbara Bush hospitalised.

In reversal, Thai PM agrees to talk face-to-face with protesters to reduce risk of violence

In quick reversal, Thai PM to talk with protesters

BANGKOK – Thailand’s prime minister agreed Sunday to hold direct talks with leaders of anti-government protests to defuse growing tensions, making an abrupt reversal that played out on national television.
Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has repeatedly rejected demands from the “Red Shirt” protesters that he dissolve Parliament and …. Source  : In reversal, Thai PM agrees to talk face-to-face with protesters to reduce risk of violence.

Thai PM’s office says he agrees to hold negotiation with protesters to reduce risk of violence

Thai PM agrees to talks with protesters
BANGKOK – Thailand’s Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva has agreed to hold face-to-face talks with protesters demanding new elections to “restore peace and minimize the chance of violence.”

Abhisit’s office made a special televised announcement Sunday morning to announce that “the prime minister has accepted the condition to negotiate with protesters.”
It …. Source article  : Thai PM’s office says he agrees to hold negotiation with protesters to reduce risk of violence.

Obama names Indian American to key agricultural post

WASHINGTON – After waiting for months for the Senate to act, President Barack Obama has announced he would bypass a vacationing senate to make recess appointments of 15 nominees, including an Indian American agricultural scientist as chief agricultural negotiator in trade talks.
Announcing his decision to nominate Indian American Islam A. Siddiqui, a B.S. … Read more : Obama names Indian American to key agricultural post.

Iran suspected of planning new nuclear sites: Report

WASHINGTON – International agencies, inspectors and western intelligence officials believe Tehran is planning to build more nuclear enrichment sites in defiance of international demands, The New York Times reported late Saturday.
Quoting anonymous sources from several governments and international agencies, the Times reported that United Nations inspectors were looking for evidence of two such …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Iran suspected of planning new nuclear sites: Report.

Obama’s challenge after week of big successes: Seizing momentum, tackling new issues

Obama must seize momentum after big week
WASHINGTON – Doubted and deeply in need of a comeback, President Barack Obama had a political dream week: a historic remaking of America’s health care system, an overhaul of how students pay for college and a groundbreaking deal with Russia to shrink nuclear arsenals.
The biggest foreign … Read more >>.

British lawmaker holds Parliament’s first same-sex marriage, now public can follow suit

UK Parliament hosts first same-sex marriage

LONDON – Britain’s Europe Minister Chris Bryant has taken part in Parliament’s first gay marriage, celebrating a civil partnership ceremony at the historic venue.
Bryant, a member of the governing Labour Party, won permission to hold his civil partnership ceremony with partner Jared Cranney at the Palace of Westminster – home [..] Read the original article: here.

Modi grilled for nine hours by SIT (Second Intro Roundup)

GANDHINAGAR – Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi was Saturday grilled by a Supreme Court-appointed panel for over nine hours in two separate sessions that ended past midnight over his alleged complicity in not doing enough to stop the 2002 riots in the state.

The chief minister came out of the Special Investigation Team (SIT) headquarters at …. Original source  : Modi grilled for nine hours by SIT (Second Intro Roundup).

Obama announces 15 recess appointments in agencies, citing GOP stalling tactics in Senate

Obama announces 15 recess appointments, scolds GOP
WASHINGTON – Fed up with waiting, President Barack Obama announced Saturday he would bypass a vacationing Senate and name 15 people to key administration jobs, wielding for the first time the blunt political …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Obama announces 15 recess appointments in agencies, citing GOP stalling tactics in Senate.

Palin tells tea party activists in Nevada Reid will have to explain votes when he returns home

Palin to tea party rally: Don’t sit down, shut up
SEARCHLIGHT, Nev. – Sarah Palin told thousands of tea party activists assembled in the dusty Nevada desert Saturday that Sen. Harry Reid will have to explain his votes when he comes back to his …. Original source  : Palin tells tea party activists in Nevada Reid will have to explain votes when he returns home.

Obama names 15 recess appointments in federal agencies, citing GOP stalling tactics in Senate

Obama makes 15 recess appointments, scolds GOP
WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama is making 15 recess appointments and blaming Senate Republicans for forcing his hand.
In a written statement, Obama says the positions include key members of his economic team, as well as members of the National Labor Relations Board and the head of Customs … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Obama names 15 recess appointments in federal agencies, citing GOP stalling tactics in Senate.