Mirwaiz, Malik, Mehbooba reject all-party invite for talks

NEW DELHI – Moderate Hurriyat Conference chief Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Jammu and Kashmir Liberation Front (JKLF) Yasin Malik and People’s Democratic Party (PDP) chief Mehbooba Mufti have all rejected invitations to attend the all-party meeting in person in Sringar.

Malik …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Mirwaiz, Malik not to meet all-party team

SRINAGAR – Hurriyat leader Mirwaiz Umer Farooq Monday said he will not meet the all-party delegation from New Delhi visiting Jammu and Kashmir, saying it was “a facade”. Separatist leader Yasin Malik will also not meet the delegation.

Finally deciding against meeting the team which arrived Monday, the Mirwaiz — who heads the so-called moderate wing …. Source  : Mirwaiz, Malik not to meet all-party team.

Jharkhand cabinet expansion after JMM conclave

RANCHI – Jharkhand Chief Minister Arjun Munda is likely to expand his cabinet after a three-day conclave of its ally Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) that began in Dumka Monday, party sources said.

“JMM has to finalise the list of its party legislators’ names who will get a place in the cabinet. It seems that the JMM …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Jharkhand cabinet expansion after JMM conclave.

‘Macho-man’ Putin to marry sexy 24-yr-old gymnast Alina Kabaeva?

LONDON – Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin has apparently split from his wife Ludmilla and is preparing to tie the knot with 24-year-old gymnast Alina Kabaeva.

The revelation comes after a Moscow newspaper reported that Putin recently split with Ludmilla and is preparing to marry the young and very pretty Kabaeva.

A Russian …. Original article  : ‘Macho-man’ Putin to marry sexy 24-yr-old gymnast Alina Kabaeva?.

Rove-backed groups boost their fundraising, heighten GOP assault on Democrats

Groups allied to GOP boost their fundraising

WASHINGTON – Two affiliated groups led by a blue-chip cast of Washington Republican strategists have raised a combined $32 million this year, using new freedom from fundraising restrictions to create a parallel and unofficial Republican campaign to defeat Democrats in November.
American Crossroads and its political sibling, Crossroads GPS, raised …. Read the original article  : here.

Christine O’Donnell Witchcraft Video Leaked

LINCOLN (GaeaTimes.com)- On Friday, a video surfaced on the “Real Time with Bill Maher” where the American audience watched that the Republican Party nominee Christine O‘Donnell confessing that she dabbled into witchcraft. The video sparked a lot of controversy as the tea party favorite was seen saying that she dated a man in her … Original article on : Christine O’Donnell Witchcraft Video Leaked.

All-party delegation arrives in Srinagar

SRINAGAR – An all-party delegation led by Home Minister P. Chidambaram arrived here Monday morning to get a first hand impression of the situation in Jammu and Kashmir before taking steps to defuse escalating tensions.

The delegation is on a two-day visit to the state. Members of the team are scheduled to interact with the …. Source article  : All-party delegation arrives in Srinagar.

Indian lawmakers arrive in Kashmir seeking ways to end escalating anti-India violence

Indian lawmakers visit Kashmir to address unrest

SRINAGAR, India – A delegation of Indian lawmakers seeking to defuse months of deadly civil unrest in Kashmir arrived in the Himalayan region Monday, a day after four more anti-India protesters died after being hurt during increasingly violent demonstrations.
Lawmakers from all major Indian national parties were expected to meet [..] Read the original article: here.

Election panel reviews poll preparedness in Bihar

PATNA – A three-member Election Commission team Monday began reviewing preparations for the October-November assembly polls in Bihar, an official said.

The team, on a three-day visit and headed by Chief Election Commissioner S.Y. Quraishi, arrived here Sunday night. It will oversee progress on photo electoral rolls, deployment of security forces, law and order situation and …. Read the original article  : here.

Indian lawmakers travel to Kashmir seeking ways to end anti-India unrest; 3 more people die

Indian lawmakers to Kashmir to try and end unrest

SRINAGAR, India – A delegation of Indian lawmakers seeking to defuse months of deadly civil unrest in Kashmir was traveling to the Himalayan region Monday a day after three more anti-India protesters died after being hurt during increasingly violent demonstrations.
Lawmakers from all major Indian national parties were …. Original source  : Indian lawmakers travel to Kashmir seeking ways to end anti-India unrest; 3 more people die.

Lady Gaga to visit Maine to lobby Collins, Snowe to support repeal of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’

Lady Gaga to rally in Maine against ‘don’t ask’

PORTLAND, Maine – Organizers say Lady Gaga is visiting Maine’s largest city to join a rally against the military’s “don’t ask, don’t tell” policy on gays.
The singer is expected to join a Servicemembers Legal Defense Network event near the University of Southern Maine’s Portland campus Monday. Network …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Lady Gaga to visit Maine to lobby Collins, Snowe to support repeal of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’.

Group protests Iranian president’s visit to NYC, denounces regime as oppressive

Group protests Iranian president’s visit to NYC

NEW YORK – As Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad arrived in New York City for the United Nations General Assembly dozens of protesters demonstrated Sunday against his regime.
The protesters set up near Central Park and wore tape across their mouths to demonstrate what they said was the oppressive nature of … Read more »»».

Baltimore honors eccentric native son, late rocker Frank Zappa, unveiling bust amid fan chants

Baltimore honors late rocker Frank Zappa with bust

BALTIMORE – Rocker Frank Zappa was born in Baltimore but gained greater popular acclaim in Europe than in the United States. On Sunday, devout European fans of the late musician brought his mustachioed likeness back home in the form of a bronze bust.
Several hundred fans gathered on a [..] Read the original article: here.

Swedish PM says government to stay in power after loosing majority, seek support from Greens

Swedish PM says gov’t to stay in power
STOCKHOLM – Swedish Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt says his center-right government will stay in office despite losing its majority in a parliamentary election.

Reinfeldt says he will seek support from the opposition Greens to avoid having to rely on the far-right Sweden Democrats, who entered Parliament for the first … Read : Swedish PM says government to stay in power after loosing majority, seek support from Greens.

Peru poll says 2 women front-runners in race for Lima mayor _ post held by men since 1535

2 women seen as front-runners in Lima mayor’s race

LIMA, Peru – A poll in Peru says two women are the front-runners in the Oct. 3 election for Lima’s mayor, a post to which only men have been elected since the city was founded in 1535.
Susana Villaran, candidate of the leftist Social Force party, leads with …. Read the original article  : here.

Swedish government loses majority in election as far-right group enters Parliament

Swedish gov’t loses majority, far-right kingmaker

STOCKHOLM – Preliminary results show a far-right party has entered the Swedish Parliament for the first time, spoiling the center-right government’s majority and plunging the country into political disarray.
Results from 99 percent of voting districts show Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt’s four-party coalition winning 172 seats, three short of a majority … Original source on Gaea Times at : Swedish government loses majority in election as far-right group enters Parliament.

Swedish election too close to call as far-right group challenges government’s majority

Swedish election too close to call
STOCKHOLM – Sweden’s election was heading for a nail-biting finish Sunday with a TV exit poll and partial results showing a far-right party challenging the center-right government’s majority in Parliament.

The exit poll by public broadcaster SVT showed the Islam-bashing Sweden Democrats party could play a kingmaker role, with no clear …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Swedish election too close to call as far-right group challenges government’s majority.

Congress to vote on medal for “Go for broke” Japanese-American veterans of World War II

House to vote on medal for “Go for broke” veterans

HONOLULU – Ronald Oba grew up saluting the U.S. flag and saying the Pledge of Allegiance in school, like millions of other American boys.
But he was labeled an “enemy alien” after Japan bombed Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, 1941, because his ancestors came from the same …. Read the original article  : Congress to vote on medal for “Go for broke” Japanese-American veterans of World War II.

Del. Senate candidate Christine O’Donnell makes light of remarks about dabbling in witchcraft

O’Donnell makes light of witchcraft comment

LINCOLN, Del. – Republican Senate candidate Christine O’Donnell is making light of comments she made more than a decade ago about having dabbled in witchcraft when she was in high school.
“How many of you didn’t hang out with questionable folks in high school?” she asked fellow Republicans at a GOP …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Ex-Israeli premier details failed peace offer, says any new deal would have to look like his

Former Israeli premier details failed peace offer

TEL AVIV, Israel – Israel’s former premier gave his most detailed description yet of his 2008 peace offer to the Palestinians, saying in a lecture Sunday that if the current talks are to succeed, the agreement would have to resemble the plan the Palestinians turned down two years ago.
The …. Source article  : Ex-Israeli premier details failed peace offer, says any new deal would have to look like his.

Omar hopes ’something substantial’ after meetings

SRINAGAR – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah Tuesday hoped that the Indian government would come out with “something substantial” following an ice-breaking visit to the Kashmir Valley by political leaders from New Delhi.

Speaking to TimesNow channel, the chief minister praised the leaders of various parties for going out of their way and holding … Original source on Gaea Times at : Omar hopes ’something substantial’ after meetings.

Karnataka leaders angry over loyalists being ignored

BANGALORE – Ministerial aspirants from within the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) in Karnataka Tuesday mounted pressure on the state leaders for a cabinet berth in the shuffle slated for Wednesday, with some blasting the party for ignoring loyal workers.

“Only ‘lafangeys’ (loafers) and land grabbers have a place in this party and not honest workers,” …. Source article  : Karnataka leaders angry over loyalists being ignored.

All-party team visits Kashmir hospitals, Hazratbal

SRINAGAR – The all-party delegation from Delhi Tuesday visited the Hazratbal shrine and hospitals, continuing its assessment of the ground situation in Kashmir, even as curfew was in place in Srinagar and other major towns in the valley.

“Indefinite curfew continues in Srinagar city and other major towns of the valley. Curfew restrictions have continued following … Read this article on Gaea Times at : All-party team visits Kashmir hospitals, Hazratbal.

North Korea to choose new leadership next week

BEIJING – North Korea’s ruling party will meet next week to choose a new leadership circle, the state news agency KCNA reported.

The meeting is expected to make clear the succession for ailing President Kim Jong Il. The Workers’ Party of Korea conference is set for Sep 28, Xinhua news agency quoted KCNA as saying.
The [..] Read the original article: here.

US says Iran sanctions are working, but experts doubt they will stop Iran’s nuclear work

US hails Iran sanctions, but experts doubt results

WASHINGTON – The Obama administration says the latest round of sanctions appears to have succeeded in bringing additional pressure against Iran’s nuclear program. But private experts question whether the penalties will achieve their goal of compelling Tehran to give up any nuclear ambitions.
In a speech Monday, the Treasury … Read this article on Gaea Times at : US says Iran sanctions are working, but experts doubt they will stop Iran’s nuclear work.

Military’s gay ban pushed to forefront of election debate, moves to Senate

Military gay ban becomes election-year hot button

WASHINGTON – It’s John McCain versus Lady Gaga on Tuesday as the Senate takes up the emotional issue of repealing the ban on gays serving openly in the military.
Senate Democrats have attached repeal of the 17-year-old “don’t ask, don’t tell” law to a bill authorizing $726 billion in military … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Military’s gay ban pushed to forefront of election debate, moves to Senate.

Chidambaram visits violence-hit Tangmarg town

SRINAGAR – Union Home Minister P. Chidambaram, who is heading the all-party delegation now visiting Jammu and Kashmir, Tuesday visited the valley’s Tangmarg town where six people were killed Sep 13.

Chidambaram was accompanied by several from the 39-member delegation, which arrived in Srinagar Monday and leaves for Jammu Tuesday afternoon.
The all-party team, …. Original article  : Chidambaram visits violence-hit Tangmarg town.

US looks for milestones for Obama’s India visit

WASHINGTON – As the US prepares for President Barack Obama’s visit to India, it is looking at marking achievements in areas of technology, innovation and trade besides defence and security, according to a senior official.

The technology theme was related to “India’s economic rise”, inclusive growth was intended “to help lift millions of Indians out of … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : US looks for milestones for Obama’s India visit.

Meeting separatists in groups was not collective decision: Swaraj

SRINAGAR – Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sushma Swaraj, part of the all-party delegation on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, said Tuesday that the decision to meet separatist leaders in the valley in groups was not a collective one.

The leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha said the matter was not discussed in … Original source on Gaea Times at : Meeting separatists in groups was not collective decision: Swaraj.

All-party team to visit Jammu Tuesday

JAMMU – The all-party team led by union Home Minister P. Chidambaram, which is on a two-day visit to Jammu and Kashmir, arrives in Jammu Tuesday afternoon from Srinagar.

The 39-member delegation, which is visiting the state to get a sense of the ground situation before deciding on steps to defuse tensions, will meet a …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : All-party team to visit Jammu Tuesday.

Republican concedes race for GOP nomination for Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District seat

GOP contender for Hawaii US House seat concedes

HONOLULU – Former television reporter Ramsay Wharton is conceding the race for the GOP nomination for Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District.
Wharton said in a statement Monday that she lost in Saturday’s primary election to airline pilot John Willoughby by 212 votes, the margin reported by the state Office of …. Original article  : Republican concedes race for GOP nomination for Hawaii’s 2nd Congressional District seat.

Israelis: Turkish demand for flotilla raid apology unacceptable condition for leaders’ meeting

Peres: Turkish conditions for meeting unacceptable

UNITED NATIONS – A planned meeting between Israeli President Shimon Peres and his Turkish counterpart was scrapped because of the Israeli leader’s refusal to apologize for the deadly commando raid on a Turkish-led flotilla that tried to breach Israel’s blockade of the Gaza Strip, Israeli officials said Monday.
In the latest … Read more »»».

Richardson hopes Congress will make immigration a major issue in 2011

Border governors call for US immigration reform

SANTA FE, N.M. – New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson says he’s hopeful that a comprehensive immigration reform bill will be considered early next year by Congress.
Richardson made the comments Monday at the closing of a meeting in Santa Fe of U.S. and Mexican border state governors.
Richardson co-hosted the meeting …. Source article  : Richardson hopes Congress will make immigration a major issue in 2011.

California judge in runaway Lexus lawsuit says he’s likely to keep Toyota’s settlement sealed

Judge in Toyota suit says sealed settlement likely

SANTA ANA, Calif. – A California judge says he’s inclined to keep confidential a settlement between Toyota and the relatives of four people killed when a driver was unable to stop a runaway Lexus.
Superior Court Judge Anthony Mohr said Monday he would probably sign such an order.
An attorney …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : California judge in runaway Lexus lawsuit says he’s likely to keep Toyota’s settlement sealed.

NKorea to hold key party convention next week amid speculation on father-to-son power transfer

NKorea to hold key party convention next week

SEOUL, South Korea – North Korea confirmed Tuesday that a major communist party convention will be held next week as observers speculated that the secretive’ regime’s aging leader was ready to give his son an important position to pave the way for his succession.
Kim Jong Il took control [..] Read the original article: here.

Obama: Special interests greatest impediment to Democratic candidates in November

Obama: Interest groups holding back Democrats

PHILADELPHIA – President Barack Obama says the greatest impediment to Democrats’ election prospects in November are special interests that can spend unlimited amounts of money on campaign advertising.
Obama told supporters at a Democratic National Committee fundraiser Monday that the party has great candidates but their voices are being drowned out [..] Read the original article: here.

Fired federal prosecutors blame politicization of DOJ during forum in Arkansas

Fired federal prosecutors fault Bush officials

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Five of the federal prosecutors whose firings in 2006 sparked an investigation into President George W. Bush’s Justice Department blamed their ouster Monday on politics in the department, which one of them said became a “laughingstock.”
The five former U.S. attorneys, among nine who were let go, …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Fired federal prosecutors blame politicization of DOJ during forum in Arkansas.

Obama to Democrats: Believe in own ability to get candidates elected in November elections

Obama urges Democrats to recapture 2008 enthusiasm

PHILADELPHIA – President Barack Obama says Democrats can’t just wait for him to come to their cities and states to rally support for their candidates. He says they must believe in their own ability to put Democrats in a position to win.
Speaking at a fundraiser for Pennsylvania Senate candidate …. Original article  : Obama to Democrats: Believe in own ability to get candidates elected in November elections.

AP Interview: Murkowski thinks focus in DC less on candidate quality, more on boosting numbers

Murkowski says GOP leaders turned backs on her

JUNEAU, Alaska – U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski said Monday she feels that Republican leaders have turned their backs on her as she mounts a write-in bid to try to hold onto her seat.
Murkowski, who lost last month’s GOP primary to tea-party-supported Joe Miller, told The Associated Press that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

After Delaware GOP primary upset, O’Donnell Senate campaign now seeking experienced help

Surprise Del. primary winner seeks GOP support

DOVER, Del. – Some members of a GOP establishment that once shunned tea party favorite Christine O’Donnell are getting behind her now that she has won the Republican Senate primary, offering help in the form of cash and experienced staffers.
A young spokeswoman who has been thinking of going back …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Japan calls for talks over detained Chinese fisherman

TOKYO – Japan hoped to hold talks with Beijing to defuse an escalating row over a Chinese fisherman detained near disputed islands, an official said Wednesday.

China has repeatedly called for the release of the boat captain arrested two weeks ago, while Tokyo was pressing charges against him for allegedly obstructing the Japanese Coast Guard in …. Read the original article  : here.

Book depicts intense internal White House dissension, says aides doubt Obama’s Afghan strategy

Book says aides doubt Obama’s Afghan strategy

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama’s top advisers are depicted in a new book as arguing over much of the past 20 months about policy and turf, with some top members of his national security team doubting the president’s strategy in Afghanistan will work.
The book, “Obama’s Wars,” by journalist Bob … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Book depicts intense internal White House dissension, says aides doubt Obama’s Afghan strategy.

Woman on track to be 1st female executed in Va in nearly a century as high court clears way

Va. could execute 1st woman in nearly a century

RICHMOND, Va. – A woman convicted of two hired killings is scheduled to die by injection Thursday and become the first woman put to death in Virginia in nearly a century, after the U.S. Supreme Court refused to block her execution.
Teresa Lewis, 41, was sentenced to death … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Woman on track to be 1st female executed in Va in nearly a century as high court clears way.

UN launches global campaign to save 16 million mothers and children over 5 years

UN promotes health campaign for women, children

UNITED NATIONS – A global campaign that aims to save the lives of 16 million mothers and children over the next five years was being launched by U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Wednesday with as much as $40 billion in commitments from world governments and private aid groups.
The so-called …. Original article  : UN launches global campaign to save 16 million mothers and children over 5 years.

Obama, Dems push issues, intensify efforts to get core backers fired up for elections

Dems’ plea to core voters: We need you fired up

WASHINGTON – Democrats desperately need other Democrats – to vote.
With midterm elections in just six weeks – and Republicans fired up and ready to go – Democratic leaders are pushing issues that resonate with their constituencies, from trying to repeal the ban on gays serving openly … Read more : Obama, Dems push issues, intensify efforts to get core backers fired up for elections.

NY Republicans call on Lazio to end governor campaign, fall in line with party behind Paladino

NY Republicans want Lazio to give up on gov try

NEW YORK – New York Republican leaders want former U.S. Rep. Rick Lazio to end his campaign for governor after losing his party’s primary to tea party favorite Carl Paladino.
Lazio continues to have the support of the state’s Conservative Party and could run as its gubernatorial … Read more »»».

China premier threatens Japan with ‘further actions’ over boat dispute

China premier threatens Japan over boat dispute

BEIJING – China’s premier is warning that his country will take “further actions” in Japan does not immediately release a ship captain at the center of a growing dispute between the two Asian powers.
Wen Jiabao’s comments are the first by a top Chinese leader on the issue that has …. Source article  : China premier threatens Japan with ‘further actions’ over boat dispute.

Six inducted into Karnataka ministry

BANGALORE – Six people were inducted into the Karnataka council of ministers Wednesday, a day after unprecedented public display of dissent by ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators denied a cabinet berth.

Shobha Karandlage, the woman Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa was forced to drop last year to save his chair and over which he sobbed publicly, … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Six inducted into Karnataka ministry.

Republicans block defense bill, ending Democrats’ push to legalize immigrant youth

DREAM Act dies with rejection of defense bill

WASHINGTON – The chance for hundreds of thousands of young people to legally remain in the U.S. evaporated Tuesday when Republicans blocked a defense spending bill in the Senate.
Democrats failed to get a single Republican to help them reach the 60 votes needed to move forward on the … Original article on : Republicans block defense bill, ending Democrats’ push to legalize immigrant youth.

Trial concludes in case of Wash. lesbian seeking Air Force reinstatement; judge to rule Friday

Judge to rule Friday on Witt’s return to Air Force

TACOMA, Wash. – A lawyer for a decorated flight nurse discharged for being gay urged a federal judge Tuesday to reinstate her to the Air Force Reserve, and the judge indicated he might have no other choice.
U.S. District Judge Ronald B. Leighton in Tacoma said he … Read : Trial concludes in case of Wash. lesbian seeking Air Force reinstatement; judge to rule Friday.

Mideast peacemakers push Israel on settlements, 3rd round of talks still not set

Mideast peacemakers push Israel on settlements

UNITED NATIONS – The Quartet of Mideast peacemakers shepherding the newly started direct Israeli-Palestinian negotiations called on Israel to extend its settlement freeze past Sunday, while cautioning both sides to refrain from “provocative actions and inflammatory rhetoric.”
Senior diplomats from the Quartet – the U.S., the European Union, the United Nations …. Source  : Mideast peacemakers push Israel on settlements, 3rd round of talks still not set.

Mass. Republican congressional candidate calls Palin ‘an entertainer,’ doesn’t want her help

GOP congressional hopeful: Palin an ‘entertainer’

NEWTON, Mass. – The Republican running for the only open congressional seat in Massachusetts says former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin is “an entertainer” and he would decline any offer from her to campaign on his behalf.
State Rep. Jeffrey Perry told New England Cable News in an interview Tuesday that … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mass. Republican congressional candidate calls Palin ‘an entertainer,’ doesn’t want her help.

Veterans ask GOP candidate Whitman to explain her poor voting record, say it rings of apathy

Veterans criticize Whitman for poor voting record

LOS ANGELES – A small group of union-backed veterans is asking GOP gubernatorial candidate Meg Whitman to explain why she failed to vote for most of her adult life.
A half dozen veterans delivered a letter to Whitman’s East Los Angeles campaign office Tuesday. The letter says they fought to …. Source article  : Veterans ask GOP candidate Whitman to explain her poor voting record, say it rings of apathy.

Bush strategist Karl Rove-backed group criticizes NH Democrat Hodes’ vote on spending

Karl Rove-backed group criticizes NH Dem Hodes

CONCORD, N.H. – A group created under the direction of former Bush strategist Karl Rove is targeting U.S. Senate Democratic nominee Paul Hodes of New Hampshire in a television ad that challenges Hodes’ claim to be against pork spending in Washington.
The American Crossroads ad began running Tuesday and quoted …. Original source  : Bush strategist Karl Rove-backed group criticizes NH Democrat Hodes’ vote on spending.

Pa. GOP Senate nominee hopes to tap star power of new Mass. senator who won Kennedy’s seat

Mass. Sen. Brown to headline Pa. Senate fundraiser

HARRISBURG, Pa. – Freshman U.S. Sen. Scott Brown of Massachusetts will headline a Philadelphia fundraiser for Pennsylvania’s Republican candidate for Senate, Pat Toomey.
The Friday fundraiser with Brown makes him the second New England senator in two months to raise money for Toomey in Philadelphia.
Brown declined comment through a … Read more »»».

British gov’t says local elections in Turks and Caicos postponed while reforms take root

Britain: No election next year in Turks and Caicos

SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – An election to return self governance for the Turks and Caicos Islands has been postponed, a British Foreign Office minister announced Tuesday, extending London’s direct rule over the Caribbean dependency.
Henry Bellingham, the minister for overseas territories, said elections set for July 2011 … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : British gov’t says local elections in Turks and Caicos postponed while reforms take root.

NATO, Russia planning for Lisbon summit

WASHINGTON – Representatives of the NATO-Russia Council are to set the stage Wednesday for a summit in Lisbon later this year that will include Russia, the US ambassador to NATO said.

NATO and Russian foreign ministers are to meet informally in New York on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly to seek “agreement that the … Read this article on Gaea Times at : NATO, Russia planning for Lisbon summit.

The new tea party is still disjointed, but it has energy, money and detente with Republicans

New tea party: energy, money and detente with GOP

WASHINGTON – Tea party activists and the Republican establishment are quickly joining forces for the fall elections as fresh cash and energy flow to the upstarts.
Separate tea party groups still squabble over roles for Republican insiders within the movement, but the conservative activists and GOP stalwarts have … Read this article on Gaea Times at : The new tea party is still disjointed, but it has energy, money and detente with Republicans.

Senate panel finishing evidence hearings in impeachment trial of Louisiana judge

Senate panel wrapping up impeachment hearings

WASHINGTON – Attorneys for Judge G. Thomas Porteous are wrapping up their defense before a Senate impeachment panel hearing a case that could make him just the eighth federal judge to be removed from the bench.
Porteous’ attorneys are calling the last of some two dozen witnesses who have testified over …. Original source  : Senate panel finishing evidence hearings in impeachment trial of Louisiana judge.

Dream Act 2010 Status: Rejected

Unfortunately enough the Dream Act 2010 has been rejected in the Senate today.
A total count of 60 votes was necessary to bring it to the floor but senators voted 56 to 43 for the bill. If passed, the legislation would have granted conditional legal residency for six years to immigrants younger than 35 who … Original article on : Dream Act 2010 Status: Rejected.

Manmohan Singh gets World Statesman Award

NEW YORK – Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh has been honoured with the 2010 World Statesman Award by the Appeal of Conscience Foundation, an interfaith coalition which promotes mutual understanding, tolerance and peace.

India’s Ambassador to the US, Meera Shankar, accepted the award on behalf of the prime minister an a glittering ceremony here Tuesday from … Original article on : Manmohan Singh gets World Statesman Award.

NY judge throws out lawsuit by estate of author who claimed ‘Disturbia’ copied ‘Rear Window’

NY judge: ‘Disturbia’ did not copy short story

NEW YORK – A federal judge in New York has dismissed a copyright lawsuit that claimed the 2007 thriller “Disturbia” ripped off Alfred Hitchcock’s classic “Rear Window.”
Federal Judge Laura Taylor Swain tossed out a lawsuit late Tuesday in which Steven Spielberg and others were sued by the estate …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : NY judge throws out lawsuit by estate of author who claimed ‘Disturbia’ copied ‘Rear Window’.

India-US partnership ‘looms bright’ before Obama visit

NEW YORK – The promise of India-US partnership “looms bright and unmistakable” ahead of President Barack Obama’s historic India visit, says a senior US official praising Prime Minister Manmohan Singh for his role in forging the relationship.

“As President Obama prepares for an historic state visit to India later this autumn, the promise of our …. Original article  : India-US partnership ‘looms bright’ before Obama visit.

Protesters pushing for AIDS funding, overturn of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ heckle Obama in NY

Obama heckled on AIDS, gay rights at fundraiser

NEW YORK – President Barack Obama got heckled at a fundraiser Wednesday night by protesters pushing for more funding for AIDS programs and quicker action to allow gays to serve openly in the military.
Activists yelled slogans and held signs aloft reading “Obama broken promises KILL.” Supporters of the … Original article on : Protesters pushing for AIDS funding, overturn of ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ heckle Obama in NY.

Gaza flotilla report: Israeli interception ‘unlawful’

NEW YORK – An investigative report Wednesday from the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva said that Israel’s military interception of a flotilla of aid ships bound for the Gaza Strip in May was “clearly unlawful” and violent.

The report from Geneva is separate from an investigation ordered by the UN Security Council in New York …. Original source  : Gaza flotilla report: Israeli interception ‘unlawful’.

Army officer accused of sexual harassment, creating hostile work environment

DOD brain injury office chief under investigation

WASHINGTON – The director of the Pentagon office overseeing the treatment of troops suffering from brain injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder is under investigation for allegedly making unwanted sexual advances and creating a hostile work environment, The Associated Press has learned.
The inquiry of Army Col. Robert W. Saum’s conduct …. Source  : Army officer accused of sexual harassment, creating hostile work environment.

Swedish government gains 1 seat in late vote count

Swedish government gains 1 seat in late vote count

STOCKHOLM – A tally of foreign and advance ballots from Sweden’s election has given the center-right government another seat in Parliament, but it still lacks a majority.
Wednesday’s vote count gave Prime Minister Fredrik Reinfeldt’s four-party alliance 173 seats, one more than it had after the first count, …. Source article  : Swedish government gains 1 seat in late vote count.

Obama, White House staff still waiting for Emanuel to decide on Chicago mayor bid

No decision on Chicago mayor run for Emanuel

WASHINGTON – The White House says even President Barack Obama doesn’t know whether his chief of staff Rahm Emanuel will leave the administration to run for Chicago mayor.
Obama spokesman Robert Gibbs says Emanuel hasn’t made up his mind, and the president is not aware of what the decision … Original source on Gaea Times at : Obama, White House staff still waiting for Emanuel to decide on Chicago mayor bid.

Jamaica parliament seat declared vacant after ruling party lawmaker admits dual US citizenship

Jamaica parliament seat vacated over citizenship

KINGSTON, Jamaica – A top court ruled Wednesday that a lawmaker allied to Prime Minister Bruce Golding is ineligible to sit in parliament because she also holds U.S. citizenship.
The decision has the potential to narrow Golding’s already slim majority of 31-28, depending on whether his Labor Party is ultimately able …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Jamaica parliament seat declared vacant after ruling party lawmaker admits dual US citizenship.

Obama calls for more accountability for sustained development

WASHINGTON – US President Barack Obama called Wednesday for a new approach to international development by focusing on sustainability and requiring greater accountability for poor countries to ensure aid if effectively used.

“We’re making it clear that we will partner with countries that are willing to take the lead,” Obama said at a UN conference in …. Read the original article  : here.

Tea Party Express plans return to Alaska; vows to do whatever it takes to beat Sen. Murkowski

Tea party returning to Alaska to help Joe Miller

JUNEAU, Alaska – The tea party group helping to upset the status quo in several races this election year is coming back to Alaska to fulfill a vow to do whatever it takes to beat U.S. Sen. Lisa Murkowski.
Tea Party Express spokesman Levi Russell said Wednesday that …. Source  : Tea Party Express plans return to Alaska; vows to do whatever it takes to beat Sen. Murkowski.

Appeals court affirms unconstitutionality of strict Florida ban on gay adoptions

Court affirms overturning Fla. gay adoption ban

MIAMI – Florida will immediately stop enforcing its ban on adoptions by gay people following a decision by a state appeals court that the three-decade-old law is unconstitutional, Gov. Charlie Crist said Wednesday.
Crist announced the decision after the 3rd District Court of Appeal upheld a 2008 ruling by a … Original source on Gaea Times at : Appeals court affirms unconstitutionality of strict Florida ban on gay adoptions.

Republicans circulate ‘Pledge to America’ focused on jobs, economy and drawing on voter ire

Tax, spending cuts top GOP campaign-year ‘Pledge’

WASHINGTON – House Republicans are vowing to cut taxes and federal spending, repeal the health care law and ban federal funding of abortion. It’s all part of a new campaign manifesto designed to propel them to victory in midterm elections Nov. 2.
Republicans who have been briefed on the document … Read more : Republicans circulate ‘Pledge to America’ focused on jobs, economy and drawing on voter ire.

Turks and Caicos party to abandon reform talks with Britain until election date restored

T&C party abandons reform talks with Britian

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos – A political boss in the Turks and Caicos Islands said Wednesday that his party is abandoning reform talks with British officials until a guaranteed date is set for an election restoring self rule.
Doug Parnell, chief of the People’s Democratic Movement, said it discontinued talks …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Turks and Caicos party to abandon reform talks with Britain until election date restored.

Els, Ford, Hutchison and a former US president to go into Hall of Fame

Els gets in on the first ballot
ATLANTA – Like most golfers, Ernie Els always wonders if he could have achieved more in his career. He was reminded Wednesday he has done plenty with the announcement that he has been elected into the World Golf Hall of Fame.

Els was the only player to receive enough votes …. Original source  : Els, Ford, Hutchison and a former US president to go into Hall of Fame.

AP Interview: Yanukovych seeks deeper US ties, moving on path to EU membership

AP Interview: Yanukovych seeks deeper US ties

NEW YORK – The Ukrainian president, who has repaired relations with neighboring Russia and taken his country out of the running for NATO membership, said on Wednesday he wants to improve strategic relations with the United States.
Viktor Yanukovych also said that despite restoring historically close ties with fellow Slavs … Read more : AP Interview: Yanukovych seeks deeper US ties, moving on path to EU membership.

NCAA suspends North Carolina’s Burney 6 games, Williams 4 amid probe into agents, academics

NCAA suspends UNC’s Burney 6 games, Williams 4

RALEIGH, N.C. – The NCAA suspended North Carolina defensive back Kendric Burney six games and safety Deunta Williams four games on Wednesday for receiving improper benefits.
Both players must also repay benefits to become eligible, though the school plans to appeal the length of the suspensions.
In a news release, … Read : NCAA suspends North Carolina’s Burney 6 games, Williams 4 amid probe into agents, academics.

Yemeni officials say al-Qaida militants fighting off army’s attempt to retake besieged village

Besieged al-Qaida militants battling Yemeni troops

SAN’A, Yemen – Al-Qaida militants holed up in a village in south Yemen on Wednesday fought off repeated attempts by government troops backed by tanks and heavy artillery to retake the besieged town, officials said.
Thousands of people have fled Hawta and the surrounding area in Shabwa province since security forces … Original article on : Yemeni officials say al-Qaida militants fighting off army’s attempt to retake besieged village.

APNewsBreak: Senator recommends closing little-used border post undergoing $8.5M upgrade

APNewsBreak: Senator wants border crossing closed

HELENA, Mont. – An influential senator is recommending border officials scrap an $8.5 million stimulus-funded upgrade to a Montana-Saskatchewan border post and shut down the underused crossing.
Sen. Jon Tester says the U.S. Customs and Border Protection should abandon the renovation because Canada plans to close its side in April and …. Original article  : APNewsBreak: Senator recommends closing little-used border post undergoing $8.5M upgrade.

Russia cancels arms deal with Iran

MOSCOW – Russian President Dmitry Medvedev cancelled a planned arms deal with Iran because of the UN sanctions against the country, the Kremlin announced late Wednesday.

The presidential decree forbade the transfer of tanks, artillery, war ships, helicopters and missile defence systems to Iran. Tehran had ordered the missile defence system S-300 two years ago.
The …. Read the original article  : Russia cancels arms deal with Iran.

DeMint scolds GOP for not stripping Murkowski’s committee leadership, seeks money for opponent

DeMint scolds Republican colleagues on Murkowski

JUNEAU, Alaska – South Carolina Sen. Jim DeMint is scolding Republican colleagues for refusing to strip Sen. Lisa Murkowski’s leadership position on the energy committee.
DeMint says in a fundraising appeal that seeing this result was more than he could bear. He views colleagues’ decision as hurting Murkowski opponent Joe Miller …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

US walks out of Ahmadinejad UN speech, Iranian says most people think US staged 9/11 attacks

US walks out of Ahmadinejad UN speech
UNITED NATIONS – President Barack Obama and his Iranian counterpart Mahmoud Ahmadinejad traded accusations about their nations’ nuclear programs, but both left the door open to further negotiations about the nuclear impasse.

In his speech Thursday to the annual summit of world leaders, Ahmadinejad also raised the possibility that “some … Read : US walks out of Ahmadinejad UN speech, Iranian says most people think US staged 9/11 attacks.

Chavez, opponents hold final rallies in campaign for Venezuela’s legislative elections

Chavez, opponents rally before Venezuela vote

CARACAS, Venezuela – Opponents and supporters of President Hugo Chavez held their final rallies on Thursday ahead of legislative elections that both of Venezuela’s political camps view as a critical test.
Venezuelans on Sunday will elect 165 members of the National Assembly, which has been almost entirely pro-Chavez since opposition parties … Read : Chavez, opponents hold final rallies in campaign for Venezuela’s legislative elections.

NASCAR drivers Busch, Newman, Kenseth, others spend time with troops at Walter Reed hospital

NASCAR drivers visit Walter Reed hospital
WASHINGTON – NASCAR drivers Kurt Busch, Ryan Newman and Matt Kenseth all have their moments of angst and frustration over the course of a racing season.

However those lows pale in comparison after visiting members of the U.S. Military on Thursday at the Walter Reed Army Medical Center.
“Just to see what … Read more >>.

Feds object to injunction on ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ being considered by federal judge

Feds object to ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ injunction

SAN DIEGO – Attorneys for the Obama administration objected Thursday to a proposed worldwide injunction being considered by a California federal judge that would halt the military’s ban on openly gay troops.
Calling the possible move “untenable,” Department of Justice attorneys filed their objections in U.S. District Court in …. Read the original article  : Feds object to injunction on ‘don’t ask, don’t tell’ being considered by federal judge.

Kenya’s president: Key leaders say south Sudan independence referendum will be held in January

Kenya’s Kibaki expects south Sudan vote in January

UNITED NATIONS – Kenya’s president says he has received assurances from Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir and south Sudan’s leader Salva Kiir that a crucial referendum on southern independence will take place on schedule in January.
President Mwai Kibaki told the U.N. General Assembly’s annual ministerial meeting on Thursday that …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

International aid groups say new US strategy will better help poor people abroad

Aid groups cheer Obama development plan
UNITED NATIONS – International aid and advocacy groups are welcoming President Barack Obama’s new global development policy, saying they expect it will make U.S. foreign assistance more effective and better help those who really need it.

Obama’s strategy, spelled out at an anti-poverty summit at the United Nations this week, for …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

EU’s walk-out on Ahmadinejad: His comments ‘outrageous’

NEW YORK – The European Union Thursday said its 27 members walked out on a UN speech by Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad because his claims were “outrageous and unacceptable”.

Catherine Ashton, the EU high representative for foreign affairs, was reacting to claims by the Iranian leader that the US government had “orchestrated” the 2001 terrorist attacks …. Original source  : EU’s walk-out on Ahmadinejad: His comments ‘outrageous’.

Republican National Committee head says he’s tired of infighting, ‘nitpicking’ within party

Steele tired of ‘nitpicking’ within GOP ranks

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Steele said Thursday he’s tired of infighting within GOP ranks after heated primaries this year, telling party members they must stay unified to win in November.
Steele rallied activists during a stop at the Arkansas Republican Party headquarters in Little Rock. …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Republican National Committee head says he’s tired of infighting, ‘nitpicking’ within party.

Victims’ advocates demand explanation for why Wis. regulators didn’t discipline ’sexting’ DA

Groups demand explanation of ’sexting’ DA inaction

MADISON, Wis. – Pressure is building for regulators to explain why they failed to sanction a Wisconsin prosecutor who admitted sending sexually charged text messages to a domestic abuse victim.
Two victims advocacy groups demanded Thursday that the Office of Lawyer Regulation publicly reveal how it handled the case of … Read more »».

US, China need ‘frank’ talks on economy, currency: Obama

WASHINGTON/NEW YORK – US President Barack Obama Thursday pressed China to allow its yuan currency to rise and said the world’s two largest economies would need to hold “frank discussions” in the future over the dangerous imbalances still facing the global economy.

Obama and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao, meeting on the sidelines of the UN summit …. Source article  : US, China need ‘frank’ talks on economy, currency: Obama.

The wife of a US contractor detained in Cuba on suspicion of spying visits him on island

Wife of detained US contractor visits him in Cuba

HAVANA – The wife of an American contractor detained in Cuba for nine months on suspicion of spying has been allowed to come to the island and visit him, two people familiar with the case said Thursday.
Alan and Judy Gross met in mid-August, apparently at a beach … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : The wife of a US contractor detained in Cuba on suspicion of spying visits him on island.

National GOP group launches launches nearly $2M ad blitz against Mass. governor, an Obama ally

National GOP spends $2M on Mass. gov race ads

BOSTON – The Republican Governors Association is airing nearly $2 million worth of negative ads in the Massachusetts governor’s race against one of President Barack Obama’s close Democratic allies, Gov. Deval Patrick.
The RGA is hoping to boost Republican candidate Charles Baker by reprising the strategy it used …. Original source  : National GOP group launches launches nearly $2M ad blitz against Mass. governor, an Obama ally.

Report: China says 4 Japanese illegally filmed military targets

China says 4 Japanese filmed military targets

BEIJING – Chinese state media said Thursday that four Japanese are being investigated after being accused of entering a military zone without authorization and illegally filming military targets.
The report comes as China and Japan are in sharp diplomatic dispute over the detention of a Chinese fishing boat captain near …. Original source  : Report: China says 4 Japanese illegally filmed military targets.

Losses mounting, attendance low, Stan Kasten resigning as president of Washington Nationals

Nationals president Stan Kasten leaving club

WASHINGTON – Stan Kasten says he will resign as president of the Washington Nationals at the end of the season.
Kasten’s announcement Thursday comes with the Nationals headed toward a third consecutive last-place finish in the NL East.
In May 2006, Kasten was part of the group led by Washington-area real estate …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Losses mounting, attendance low, Stan Kasten resigning as president of Washington Nationals.

Stop wasting time, Obama says at UN, the time is now to drive for Israeli-Palestinian peace

Obama challenges the world: Time for Mideast peace

UNITED NATIONS – Grasping for peace, President Barack Obama on Thursday challenged a pessimistic world to overcome decades of shattered promises and help Israelis and Palestinians close a historic deal within a year. “This time will be different,” he declared, offering a now-or-never choice between Mideast stability and …. Source  : Gaea News Network.

Rep. Castle, beaten by O’Donnell in Del. Senate primary, says he hasn’t ruled out write-in run

Del. Rep. Castle mulls write-in Senate campaign

WASHINGTON – A spokeswoman for Delaware Congressman Mike Castle says he’s considering a write-in campaign for Senate after his Republican primary loss to Christine O’Donnell.
Spokeswoman Kate Dickens says there’s a “fraction of a chance” he would run. She said he hadn’t considered it until constituents began asking him to … Original source on Gaea Times at : Rep. Castle, beaten by O’Donnell in Del. Senate primary, says he hasn’t ruled out write-in run.

Who’s a real tea partier? GOP claims trickery as questions loom over NJ House hopeful

Who’s a ‘tea partier’? Question looms in NJ, US

MOUNT HOLLY, N.J. – When independent candidate Peter DeStefano’s name appears on the congressional ballot on Nov. 2, this will be underneath: New Jersey Tea Party.
That doesn’t sit easily with, well, the New Jersey tea partiers, whose leaders are DeStefano’s most strident critics. DeStefano, they say, is …. Source  : Who’s a real tea partier? GOP claims trickery as questions loom over NJ House hopeful.

UN chief urges tolerance to combat growing social inequalities and political polarization

UN chief urges tolerance to combat polarization

UNITED NATIONS – Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon warned kings, prime ministers and presidents Thursday of growing political polarization and social inequalities and implored U.N. members to show greater tolerance and mutual respect to bring the world together.
In his keynote speech to the opening of the General Assembly’s annual ministerial meeting, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : UN chief urges tolerance to combat growing social inequalities and political polarization.

Monthly premiums to rise for 7 of top 10 Medicare prescription plans in 2011

Double-digit hikes for some Medicare drug plans

WASHINGTON – A new analysis of government data finds that millions of seniors face double-digit hikes in their Medicare prescription premiums next year unless they shop for cheaper coverage.
The analysis of Medicare data comes from a private research firm, Avalere Health.
Premiums will go up an average of 10 percent …. Original source  : Monthly premiums to rise for 7 of top 10 Medicare prescription plans in 2011.

Negotiations end for the day in McCourt divorce case that could determine Dodger ownership

Mediation ends for the day in McCourt divorce case

LOS ANGELES – Negotiations have ended for the day in the divorce case of Jamie and Frank McCourt that could determine future ownership of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Mediation began Friday in a downtown Los Angeles courtroom before Superior Court Judge Peter Lichtman.
Court spokesman Allan Parachini says negotiations, …. Read the original article  : here.

Sudanese officials seek world support as critical independence referendum nears

Sudan seeks global support as vote nears
UNITED NATIONS – Sudanese officials are asking world leaders including President Barack Obama to provide the international support needed to maintain peace as they near a critical independence referendum on south Sudan that could split Africa’s largest country in two.

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, Obama and other leaders on Friday …. Original article  : Sudanese officials seek world support as critical independence referendum nears.

Obama touches all time low in opinion poll

WASHINGTON – With just a month to go for the US Congressional elections, opposition Republicans have the clear advantage as President Barack Obama contends with the lowest approval rating of his 20-month presidency, a new poll shows.

Obama’s approval rating now stands at 42 percent — an all time low in CNN polling and 8 [..] Read the original article: here.

India backs UN push for global disarmament

UNITED NATIONS – India has strongly backed UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon’s push for efforts to rid the world of weapons of mass destruction with the Conference on Disarmament (CD) giving it political impetus.

“India remains committed to the objective and vision of Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi’s Action Plan of 1988 for ushering in a … Read more : India backs UN push for global disarmament.

David Cameron’s new baby girl ’sleeps in cardboard box’

LONDON – UK Prime Minister David Cameron has revealed that his newborn baby girl sleeps not in a cot, but in a cardboard box.

Cameron said when Florence Rose Endellion Cameron was born last month, she did not have a cot so his six-year-old daughter Nancy decorated the box for her to sleep in.

Cameron told the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : David Cameron’s new baby girl ’sleeps in cardboard box’.

Advani and Uma Bharti visit Somnath on Rath Yatra anniversary

SOMNATH – Senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Lal Krishna Advani visited the Somnath temple in Gujarat along with former BJP leader Uma Bharti on Saturday.

The two leaders landed at Keshod airport in Junagadh district on Friday evening from where they left for Somnath to offer prayers at the temple.

Advani had started his rath yatra …. Source article  : Advani and Uma Bharti visit Somnath on Rath Yatra anniversary.

India, Brazil, Germany, Japan seek UNSC expansion

UNITED NATIONS – India, Brazil, Germany and Japan (collectively known as G4 nations) have reiterated the need for urgent reform of the Security Council, including expansion of permanent and non-permanent membership, to make it more responsive to 21st century realities.

The call was made after a meeting Friday of the foreign ministers of G4 countries, including … Read more »»».

Clinton meets with Abbas as Israeli-Palestinian talks in jeopardy over settlements issue

Peace talks in jeopardy, Clinton and Abbas meet

NEW YORK – Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton spent nearly a half-hour Friday meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas as the Obama administration tried to prevent Israeli-Palestinian peace talks from collapsing.
The Palestinians have threatened to walk out of the talks if Israel does not extend a slowdown … Original source on Gaea Times at : Clinton meets with Abbas as Israeli-Palestinian talks in jeopardy over settlements issue.

Boehner criticizes Democrats’ postponement of vote on whether to extend Bush-era tax cuts

Boehner criticizes postponement of tax cut vote

HARRISBURG, Pa. – U.S. House Republican leader John Boehner is criticizing Democratic leaders in Congress for postponing a vote on extending Bush-era tax cuts until after the Nov. 2 election.
Boehner (BAY-ner) spoke Friday night at a dinner for Pennsylvania Republicans in the state capital of Harrisburg.
He says Democrats postponed …. Source article  : Boehner criticizes Democrats’ postponement of vote on whether to extend Bush-era tax cuts.

Judge to approve $75M Citigroup settlement once bank adds assurances against future actions

Judge ready to approve $75M Citigroup settlement

WASHINGTON – A federal judge says she plans to approve the government’s $75 million settlement with Citigroup Inc. over charges it misled investors about billions in potential losses from subprime mortgages.
U.S. District Court Judge Ellen Segal Huvelle said she first wants assurances that Citigroup will maintain new policies it …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Judge to approve $75M Citigroup settlement once bank adds assurances against future actions.

Friending Newark: Facebook founder gives $100M to school system after he and the mayor click

Newark mayor’s crime-fighting led to $100M gift

NEWARK, N.J. – Just two months ago, Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg was at a conference in Sun Valley, Idaho, and found himself seated at dinner with Newark Mayor Cory Booker.
Booker, a charismatic, 41-year-old former Stanford football player, regaled the other guests around the table with stories about how he … Read this article on Gaea Times at : Friending Newark: Facebook founder gives $100M to school system after he and the mayor click.

Minister fired for having sex with Swaziland king’s wife

LONDON – The king of Swaziland, who has 14 wives, has sacked his justice minister after the politician was caught red-handed having sex with one of the women in the southern African kingdom, media reports here said.

King Mswati III, 42, an “enthusiastic practitioner” of polygamy and father to 23 children, was shown pictures by police … Original article on : Minister fired for having sex with Swaziland king’s wife.

African Union asks Security Council to delay genocide prosecution of Sudan’s president

Africans ask UN to delay al-Bashir prosecution

UNITED NATIONS – The African Union asked the U.N. Security Council in a letter circulated on Friday to delay for a year the prosecution of Sudan’s President Omar al-Bashir on charges of genocide and other alleged crimes.
In a letter to the council circulated Friday, the continent-wide organization said it …. Original article  : African Union asks Security Council to delay genocide prosecution of Sudan’s president.

Mass. Sen. Brown headlines Pa. Senate fundraiser for Republican candidate Pat Toomey

Mass. Sen. Brown headlines Pa. Senate fundraiser

PHILADELPHIA – Massachusetts Sen. Scott Brown is headlining a fundraiser in Philadelphia for Pennsylvania’s Republican candidate for Senate, Pat Toomey.
The freshman Republican senator said Friday that Toomey is an independent thinker like himself and would be a valuable ally in Washington.
Toomey’s a former congressman and is in a close … Original source on Gaea Times at : Mass. Sen. Brown headlines Pa. Senate fundraiser for Republican candidate Pat Toomey.

UN chief condemns Ahmadinejad’s remarks about 9/11

NEW YORK – UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon Friday condemned “in no uncertain terms” remarks made by Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad alleging a US government role in the Sep 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.

Ahmadinejad said in a speech Thursday to the UN General Assembly that some “segments” of the US government “orchestrated” 9/11 to “reverse the declining … Read more »»».

AP-GfK Poll: Both parties disliked, Democrats struggle to overcome election enthusiasm gap

AP-GfK Poll: GOP more fired up as elections near

WASHINGTON – A political enthusiasm gap is helping Republicans in their effort to roll up big gains in the congressional elections. GOP supporters are a lot more interested in getting their party’s candidates elected than Democrats are in electing theirs, a new AP-GfK poll shows.
Democrats struggling to … Read more »».

Federal judge OKs 1st Calif execution since ‘06 after state revises lethal injection procedure

Judge clears way for 1st Calif execution since ‘06

SAN FRANCISCO – A federal judge has cleared the way for California’s first execution since 2006 after the state revised its lethal injection procedures.
Corrections officials have scheduled the execution of Albert Greenwood Brown for next Wednesday.
U.S. District Court Judge Jeremy Fogel said Friday that Brown’s execution could …. Source  : Federal judge OKs 1st Calif execution since ‘06 after state revises lethal injection procedure.

Queen sought funds aimed at Britain’s poorest to pay for heating at Buckingham Palace

Queen tried to get UK poverty fund to heat palace

LONDON – Even a monarch needs a little help from time to time – especially when the cost of heating those drafty old palaces spirals past $1.5 million a year.
But a request for assistance from a government fund that provides subsidized heating to low-income Britons has … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Queen sought funds aimed at Britain’s poorest to pay for heating at Buckingham Palace.

Former DOJ official says department won’t prosecute minorities for voting rights violations

Ex-DOJ official blasts voting rights enforcement

WASHINGTON – A former Justice Department official says his higher-ups told lawyers they are not interested in pursuing Voting Rights Act accusations against minorities. The department denies the allegations.
Christopher Coates is the former chief of the Justice Department’s Voting Section. He says some within the Justice Department have “deep-seated opposition …. Source  : Former DOJ official says department won’t prosecute minorities for voting rights violations.

IED beams Added to U.S. Joint Forces ‘will change the face of this war’

NEW YORK (GaeaTimes.com) — Many suffered a painful death due to IED blasts.
IEDs happen to be an insurgent weapon that is responsible for the dreadful fate and maiming of thousands of U.S. servicemembers in Iraq and Afghanistan.
The latest technology that has been developed will probably save the lives of many from these IEDs. Reportedly, …. Read the original article  : IED beams Added to U.S. Joint Forces ‘will change the face of this war’.

Krishna, Qureshi likely to meet Monday

UNITED NATIONS – Indian External Affairs Minister S.M. Krishna is likely to meet with his Pakistani counterpart Shah Mahmood Qureshi Monday on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly session here, a media report said.

The date and time of the meeting have yet to be agreed upon, but diplomats here told Dawn News the … Read more : Krishna, Qureshi likely to meet Monday.

Poll: Democrats Brown, Boxer hold narrow leads in races for California governor, US Senate

Poll: Democrats Brown, Boxer hold narrow leads

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A new poll shows Democrats Jerry Brown and Barbara Boxer slightly ahead in their races for California governor and U.S. Senate just five weeks before Election Day.
The Los Angeles Times-University of Southern California poll released Saturday shows Brown with support from 46 percent of likely voters, … Original article on : Poll: Democrats Brown, Boxer hold narrow leads in races for California governor, US Senate.

O’Donnell statements provide fodder for opening sketch of new Saturday Night Live season

O’Donnell is first political target of SNL season

DOVER, Del. – With the new season of “Saturday Night Live” comes a fresh batch of political satire – and Delaware Senate hopeful Christine O’Donnell is the first target.
The Republican candidate’s past statements were fodder for the opening sketch on Saturday night’s broadcast on NBC.
The sketch involved actors …. Source article  : O’Donnell statements provide fodder for opening sketch of new Saturday Night Live season.

NY governor, who’s criticized SNL for mocking disabled, goes on show to mock cast right back

Often-mocked NY governor appears on ‘SNL’
NEW YORK – Mocked for years on “Saturday Night Live,” the governor of New York has appeared on the show to dish back.

Gov. David Paterson came on Saturday night during the show’s “Weekend Update” segment. He interrupted cast member Fred Armisen, who was in character as the governor. Armisen plays …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : NY governor, who’s criticized SNL for mocking disabled, goes on show to mock cast right back.

Calif. gov. signs law honoring man who defied Japanese-American internment during World War II

Calif. law honors World War II internment critic

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – A man who challenged the World War II internment of Japanese-Americans will be honored in California every year under a bill signed into law by Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
The governor on Thursday signed legislation designating Jan. 30 as Fred Korematsu Day of Civil Liberties and the …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Calif. gov. signs law honoring man who defied Japanese-American internment during World War II.

Judge gives death row inmate 18 more hours to consider method of execution

Inmate gets more time to choose execution method

SAN FRANCISCO – A judge has given a death row inmate another day to choose his execution method.
Albert Greenwood Brown has until noon Sunday to decide between a lethal injection of one drug or the three-drug cocktail California has used in its last 12 executions.
U.S. District Court Judge … Read : Judge gives death row inmate 18 more hours to consider method of execution.

Ford administration mulled a muscular response ‘violently’ to 1975 capture of US ship Mayaguez

In Mayaguez incident, US considered its prestige

WASHINGTON – When the merchant ship Mayaguez and its American crew were seized by communist forces off the coast of Cambodia in 1975, the Ford administration was determined to craft a muscular response in hope of limiting damage to U.S. prestige, according to newly declassified documents published by the …. Source article  : Ford administration mulled a muscular response ‘violently’ to 1975 capture of US ship Mayaguez.

Bhutan PM attends Buddhist society meet in Bodhgaya

BODHGAYA – Bhutanese Prime Minister Jigme Thinley participated in the 113th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of Mahabodhi Society of India in Bodhgaya.

Thinley, along with other senior functionaries of his delegation, were special invitees at the meeting, which was attended by 150 delegates on Saturday.

Dressed in the traditional Buddhist robe, Thinley acknowledged India’s role in keeping …. Read the original article  : Bhutan PM attends Buddhist society meet in Bodhgaya.

Pakistan ATC issues contempt notices in Benazir assassination case

RAWALPINDI – Pakistan’s anti-terrorism court (ATC) conducting the trial of five men in the case of assassination of former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, has issued contempt of court notices over non- submission of the complete investigation report.

Special Judge ATC-I- Malik Mohammad Akram Awan- directed the six member joint investigation team of the FIA to appear … Read : Pakistan ATC issues contempt notices in Benazir assassination case.

NY governor, who’s criticized ‘SNL’ for mocking disabled, to appear on show, source says

NY governor to appear on ‘SNL,’ source says

NEW YORK – A person close to the governor of New York says he will appear on NBC’s “Saturday Night Live” after lambasting the show for mocking his blindness.
Paterson’s appearance on the show is scheduled for Saturday night.
The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the governor would …. Original article  : NY governor, who’s criticized ‘SNL’ for mocking disabled, to appear on show, source says.

Israel must choose between peace and settlements: Abbas

NEW YORK – Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas Saturday told the United Nations General Assembly Saturday that Israel “must choose between peace and the continuation of settlements”.

“We affirm our complete readiness to cooperate with the American efforts for the success of the political process to reach a comprehensive, just and lasting peace,” Abbas said.
Abbas spoke … Read more >>.

Little-known Alaska Democratic Senate hopeful says Murkowski write-in campaign is lost cause

Alaska Dem rival: Murkowski campaign a lost cause

JUNEAU, Alaska – The little-known Democrat in Alaska’s Senate race is labeling Sen. Lisa Murkowski’s write-in campaign as a lost cause.
Scott McAdams told The Associated Press on Saturday that it’s “wishful thinking” on Murkowski’s part if she thinks she can overcome history – and other factors after her … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Little-known Alaska Democratic Senate hopeful says Murkowski write-in campaign is lost cause.

Israeli leaders praise former Cuban President Fidel Castro for pro-Israel remarks

Israeli leaders praise Fidel Castro
JERUSALEM – Israeli leaders are praising former Cuban President Fidel Castro for supporting Israel in a series of interviews

Israeli President Shimon Peres’ office says Peres sent Castro a personal letter Saturday thanking him for his remarks. And Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu sent reporters text messages drawing attention to a series …. Original article on Gaea Times at  : Israeli leaders praise former Cuban President Fidel Castro for pro-Israel remarks.

Obama calls GOP ‘Pledge’ to cut taxes and spending a step back that the nation can’t afford

Obama dismisses GOP ‘Pledge’ as echo of disaster

WASHINGTON – President Barack Obama says Republicans’ plan to slash taxes and cut spending if the GOP retakes the House in November is no more than “an echo of a disastrous decade we can’t afford to relive.”
Obama used his weekly radio and Internet address Saturday to skewer House … Read more >>>.

Ford administration mulled responding ‘violently’ to capture of US ship Mayaguez in 1975

In 1975 incident, officials considered US prestige

WASHINGTON – When the merchant ship Mayaguez and its American crew were seized by communist forces off the coast of Cambodia in 1975, the Ford administration was determined to craft a muscular response in hope of limiting damage to U.S. prestige, according to newly declassified documents published by the … Read : Ford administration mulled responding ‘violently’ to capture of US ship Mayaguez in 1975.

Third-party nominees could swing outcome in tight governors and congressional races this fall

Third-party candidates could tip close elections

WASHINGTON – Whether they are sore losers or never-say-die patriots, third-party candidates threaten to tip a handful of congressional and gubernatorial races to contenders who otherwise might have lost this fall.
Nine-term Rep. Mike Castle of Delaware is the third prominent Republican to consider a third-party bid this year after a … Read : Third-party nominees could swing outcome in tight governors and congressional races this fall.

Palestinian leader says Israel must choose between peace or continuation of settlements

Abbas says settlements block Mideast peace deal

UNITED NATIONS – Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas says there will be no peace deal with Israel unless the Jewish state stops settlement construction in areas the Palestinians want for their future state.
Addressing the U.N. General Assembly Saturday, Abbas said Israel must choose between peace or continuing settlement construction in …. Original article  : Palestinian leader says Israel must choose between peace or continuation of settlements.

At UN, climate ministers remain deadlocked before next major summit in December

At UN, climate ministers seek way out of stalemate

UNITED NATIONS – Climate ministers and top negotiators from dozens of nations remain deadlocked over how to cut greenhouse gases less than three months before the next major international climate summit.
The U.N.’s top climate official told a high-level gathering Saturday that the key issues “are frankly in … Read more >>>.

Judge refuses to throw out Tennessee student’s convictions in hacking of Sarah Palin’s e-mail

Judge: Verdict stands in hacked Palin e-mail case

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – A federal judge has declined to throw out the convictions of a former University of Tennessee student for hacking Sarah Palin’s e-mail account during the 2008 campaign.
U.S. District Judge Thomas Phillips issued the ruling Thursday and The Knoxville News Sentinel reported that the defense attorney …. Source article on Gaea Times at  : Judge refuses to throw out Tennessee student’s convictions in hacking of Sarah Palin’s e-mail.

Indian gov’t offers detainee releases, review of security in bid to defuse Kashmir unrest

Detainee releases offered to ease Kashmir unrest

NEW DELHI – The Indian government said Saturday it will ask authorities to release hundreds of students and youths detained during months of civil unrest that has left at least 107 people dead in Kashmir and review the massive deployment of security forces there.
The government also offered a dialogue, … Read the original article on Gaea Times at : Indian gov’t offers detainee releases, review of security in bid to defuse Kashmir unrest.