Confetti and music but no mayor for NYC ball drop

When revelers pack New York's Times Square to ring in 2014, they will be greeted with some familiar practices: The annual ball drop, a hefty police presence and live musical performances.

http://www.wcax.com/story/24332797/confetti-and-music-but-no-mayor-for-nyc-ball-drop

Year's end also brings end to 55 tax breaks

In an almost annual ritual, Congress is letting a package of 55 popular tax breaks expire at the end of the year, creating uncertainty - once again - for millions of individuals and businesses.

http://www.capitolhillblue.com/node/51149

Defining the deciding issues for elections in 2014

In a competitive district east of Denver, Democrat Andrew Romanoff is counting on voter anger at a divided and ineffectual Congress to help him unseat three-term Republican Rep. Mike Coffman.

http://www.capitolhillblue.com/node/51152

NSA hacked Microsoft as part of spying on Americans

A German magazine lifted the lid on the operations of the National Security Agency's hacking unit Sunday, reporting that American spies intercept computer deliveries, exploit hardware vulnerabilities, and even hijack Microsoft's internal reporting system to spy on their targets.

http://www.capitolhillblue.com/node/51158

LETTERS: Obamacare a pack of deliberate lies

On Dec. 20, before President Barack Obama and his family jetted off to their $24,000-a-day accommodations in Hawaii, he claimed that 1 million people had just signed up for his not-so-affordable health care program.

http://www.reviewjournal.com/opinion/letters-obamacare-pack-deliberate-lies

In brief: Sex offender pleads guilty to 297 counts - Tue, 31 Dec 2013 PST

A sex offender accused of killing two women more than 15 years ago and raping children pleaded guilty on Monday to hundreds of charges, crying when some of his surviving victims addressed him.

http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2013/dec/31/in-brief-sex-offender-pleads-guilty-to-297-counts/

Mona Charen: 2013 was a close-minded year - Tue, 31 Dec 2013 PST

It deserves to be remembered for some other things. It was the year Democrats killed the United States Senate.

http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2013/dec/31/mona-charen-2013-was-a-close-minded-year/

Navy's Unmanned Plane Take-Off a Seminal 2013 Navy Event

The first-ever launch of an unmanned aircraft from a modern aircraft carrier, the USS George H.W. Bush, was described by Rear Adm.

http://www.marinelink.com/news/unmanned-takeoff-seminal362446.aspx

How President Barack Obama spent Day 10 of his holiday vacation in Hawaii

At least 31 people were killed in the separate explosions at a railway station and on a bus in Volgograd, which lies about 400 miles away from the site of the 2014 Winter Olympics.

http://www.startribune.com/politics/238203051.html

FPSO Wins Korea Government Award for HHI

Hyundai Heavy Industries which claims to be the world's largest shipbuilder, says it has gained an additional 'World Class Product' certificate from the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy for its cylindrical FPSO.

http://www.marinelink.com/news/government-korea-award362444.aspx

SW Ohio Democrat may enter race for governor

Democrats have been setting their sights on taking back the governor's office from Republican John Kasich. But a primary could be costly for the party and the candidates.

http://www.recordpub.com/latest%20headlines/2013/12/30/sw-ohio-democrat-may-enter-race-for-governor

Boeing says union vote will decide fate of jobs

Boeing Co. told political leaders in the Puget Sound on Monday that this week's vote by Machinists will determine the fate of some jobs on the new 777X airplane.

http://www.greenfieldreporter.com/view/story/a6c2243c13d0430695fe6fb3e34670f1/US--Boeing-Washington

Target: Customers' encrypted PINs were stolen

Target said Friday that debit-card PINs were among the financial information stolen from millions of customers who shopped at the retailer earlier this month.

http://www.recordpub.com/latest%20headlines/2013/12/27/target-customers-encrypted-pins-were-stolen

Congress letting 55 tax breaks expire at year end

In this Oct. 29, 2013 file photo, House Ways and Means Committee member Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga.

http://www.modbee.com/2013/12/31/3112407/congress-letting-55-tax-breaks.html#storylink=rss

Here's all you really need to remember about the passing year

The Year of the Gridlock begins with increases in Social Security taxes. In Olympia, the Majority Coalition Caucus officially takes over the state Senate amidst accusations of a coup d'etat.

http://www.thenewstribune.com/2013/12/31/2971799/heres-all-you-really-need-to-remember.html#storylink=rss

The 10 most epic viral ads of 2013

We take a look at 10 of the year's best advertisements from Volvo Trucks' epic split to Google India's beautiful reunion.

http://www.thestar.com.my/Lifestyle/Features/2013/12/31/The-10-most-epic-viral-advertisements-of-2013/

DIGITS: Looking back at 2013, by the numbers

About half of Americans expect 2014 to be a better year than 2013, according to the recent AP-Times Square New Year's Eve poll.

http://www.wfaa.com/news/national/238204711.html

New York Times Attempts to Blur Benghazi Scandal

The New York Times' latest piece on Benghazi is a farce, and some media outlets are calling the paper on this agenda-driven reporting.

http://www.aim.org/aim-column/new-york-times-attempts-to-blur-benghazi-scandal/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+AccuracyInMedia+%28Accuracy+In+Media%29

WEST: Disturbing unanswered questions regarding Benghazi

The story of what happened that night when Americans were abandoned in Benghazi to die will not go away.

http://communities.washingtontimes.com/neighborhood/allen-west-out-foxhole/2013/dec/31/disturbing-unanswered-questions-regarding-benghazi/

These are some of the rarest bobblehead dolls ever produced

They are some of the rarest bobblehead dolls ever produced. They're released erratically.

http://www.demingheadlight.com/deming-news/ci_24817079/these-are-some-rarest-bobblehead-dolls-ever-produced?source=rss

Here's the fast lane of airport screening

More than 25 million people have left their coats and shoes on their bodies, their laptops and 3-ounce liquids packed away and walked through a metal detector rather than a body scanner since the 2011 launch of the Transportation Security Administration's PreCheck program.

http://www.ledger-enquirer.com/2013/12/30/2877385/heres-the-fast-lane-of-airport.html

Visit The Sanctuary At William's Farm, Beautiful Lakefront Lot, ...

APX ACREAGE: 2.44 SUITABLE USE: Residential TOPOGRAPHY: Lake/Pond, Heavily Wooded, Exceptional View AREA: Area 2 SUBDIVISION: Williams Farm ELEMENTARY SCHOOL: Wilkesboro MIDDLE SCHOOL: Cntrl Wlks HIGH SCHOOL: Wilkes Central OWNER NAME: Ziegler, Nanci and Brent TERMS OF SALE: Cash, Conventional POSSESSION: At Closing DOCUMENTS ON FILE: Survey/Plat, ... (more)

http://www.ncrealestateblog.com/2013/12/23/visit-the-sanctuary-at-williams-farm-beautiful-lakefront-lot-w-kerr-scott-lake-wilkes-county-nc/

State certifies Right to Life petition; abortion insurance law to go before lawmakers

Within days, Republican lawmakers are expected to vote on a proposal requiring women in Michigan to purchase an optional rider for insurance coverage of an abortion due to rape, incest or an unwanted pregnancy.

http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20131202/NEWS/131209981/state-certifies-right-to-life-petition-abortion-insurance-law-to-go?CSAuthResp=1%3A473523313554189%3A246601%3A512%3A24%3Aapproved%3A0284D5440854C1B07C1587C32106F3C2

Blues reap big savings by axing individual plans

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan shows a projected savings of tens of millions of dollars next year by terminating 25 individual health plans that were noncompliant with the Affordable Care Act.

http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20131201/NEWS/312019981/blues-reap-big-savings-by-axing-individual-plans?CSAuthResp=1%3A973523313646095%3A246601%3A512%3A24%3Aapproved%3AAC2865E9EE9136190D23E5DD419F1FA2

Biz copes with global cybersecurity complications

Contracts should include cybersecurity provisions, such as indemnification clauses for a company that's hacked and compromises a customer's information.

http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20131201/NEWS/312019993/biz-copes-with-global-cybersecurity-complications?CSAuthResp=1%3A373523313747837%3A246601%3A512%3A24%3Aapproved%3A56FEA819B1CE1E63B9F107E113BC68EB

New recycling limits begin Wednesday in California under new law

The new law, which goes into effect Wednesday, limits deliveries of recycled aluminum, glass or plastics at California redemption centers to 100 pounds each.

http://www.mercedsunstar.com/2013/12/31/3417480/new-recycling-limits-begin-wednesday.html#storylink=rss

President Barack Obama's Hawaii vacation: Day 10

President Barack Obama is seen through the window of his motorcade vehicle as he is driven through the Kailua, Hawaii, neighborhood where he is spending his annual holiday vacation with his family, Monday, Dec. 30, 2013, en route to Makiki Valley Loop Trail in Honolulu to hike with family and friends.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/president-barack-obamas-hawaii-vacation-day-10/2013/12/31/32a9d78c-71f0-11e3-bc6b-712d770c3715_story.html

Chesapeake Bay Foundation faults US bay commitment

The foundation has been a leading voice in the multi-state, multi-billion-dollar effort to restore the bay by 2025.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/chesapeake-bay-foundation-faults-us-bay-commitment/2013/12/31/deca454e-71e9-11e3-bc6b-712d770c3715_story.html

Feds pick sites to test domestic drones

WASHINGTON The Federal Aviation Administration will authorize test sites for drone aircraft in Alaska, upstate New York, New Jersey and six other states, the agency said Monday, but integrating the aircraft into the nation's airspace, set by Congress for 2015, will be phased in gradually.

http://www.thenewstribune.com/2013/12/31/2971803/feds-pick-sites-to-test-domestic.html#storylink=rss

Bloomberg portrait installed at City Hall

WELL OILED: Mayor Bloomberg's portrait was unveiled Monday at City Hall, where it will hang next with those of predecessors like Rudy Giuliani.

http://nypost.com/2013/12/31/bloomberg-portrait-installed-at-city-hall/

NSA Phone Records Collection Legal

The ruling by U.S. District Judge William Pauley in favor of the NSA conflicts with last week's ruling by a federal judge in Washington, D.C., that NSA's mass call-tracking program violates the Fourth Amendment.

http://www.newsfactor.com/news/NSA-Phone-Records-Collection-Legal/story.xhtml?story_id=133004L628GD

TOM KEANEThe futility of predictions

Fresh off his victory over Mitt Romney, the president would be able to consolidate his gains and finally have the chance to enact his agenda.

http://www.bostonglobe.com/opinion/2013/12/31/the-futility-predictions/39T24z8rYP4NHv8STTu41H/story.html

African Americans to "Declare Empathy" with Dalits of India,...

On January 15, 2014, in commemoration of the 85th birthday of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., descendants of some of America's most prominent African American Legacy Families, including the Quander Family , will join U.S. Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton, Congressional members and staff, and representatives of Dalit Freedom Network in the U.S.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2014/01/prweb11454166.htm

President Barack Obama's Hawaii vacation: Day 10

At least 31 people were killed in the separate explosions at a railway station and on a bus in Volgograd, which lies about 400 miles away from the site of the 2014 Winter Olympics.

http://www.cadillacnews.com/ap_story/?story_id=190436&ap_cat=1&issue=20131231

Dems, GOP seek to define issue for 2014 elections

In a competitive district east of Denver, Democrat Andrew Romanoff is counting on voter anger at a divided and ineffectual Congress to help him unseat three-term Republican Rep. Mike Coffman.

http://www.cadillacnews.com/ap_story/?story_id=190435&ap_cat=1&issue=20131231

The Flag Company, Inc. Announces Successful Flag, Flagpole, and...

Online sales help to grow The Flag Company, Inc.'s sales of American and world flags, flagpoles, and accessories to Caribbean and Persian Gulf countries, as well as to the Orient.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2014/01/prweb11453823.htm

The Notea s Must-Reads for Tuesday, December 31, 2013

The Note's Must-Reads are a round-up of today's political headlines and stories from ABC News and the top U.S. newspapers.

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2013/12/the-notes-must-reads-for-tuesday-december-31-2013/

DIGITS: Looking Back at 2013, by the Numbers

About half of Americans expect 2014 to be a better year than 2013, according to the recent AP-Times Square New Year's Eve poll.

http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory/digits-back-2013-numbers-21376919

South Tel Aviv Residents Demonstrate - in Support

Residents of South Tel Aviv and members of the Immigration Authority gathered outside the home of MK Gidon Sa'ar Monday night.

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/175744

Likeminded Clintons to Swear In Radical Bill de Blasio

The Bible says in the book of Amos , "Can two walk together, except they be agreed?" So it follows that Bill and Hillary Clinton would be in agreement with New York City mayor-elect Warren Wilhelm, Jr., aka Bill de Blasio.

http://www.americanthinker.com/2013/12/likeminded_clintons_to_swear_in_radical_bill_de_blasio.html

Angolan Armed Forces Prepare To Battle Illegal Immigration In 2014

LUENA, Angola, Dec 31 -- Luena - The Angolan Armed Forces in the eastern military region in Moxico Province will pay greater attention to combating illegal immigration in the new year, especially in the municipalities of this province which share a border with the Democratic Republic of Congo and Zambia.

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v7/wn/newsworld.php?id=1004373

Confetti and music but no mayor for NYC ball drop

When revelers pack Times Square to ring in 2014, they will be greeted with some familiar practices: The annual ball drop, a hefty police presence and live musical performances.

http://dailyjournal.net/view/story/6ce1dc2b9836455683d57a89668f9cae/US-New-Years-Eve-NYC/

Dave Barry's 2013 Year in Review

Not in the sense of most of humanity dying from a horrible plague and then reanimating as mindless flesh-eating ghouls.

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/31/6035977/dave-barrys-2013-year-in-review.html#mi_rss=Life

Trying to help others

J ust over nine months ago, Army National Guard Sgt. James Bearup put a shotgun into his mouth and blew away memories of his military service in Afghanistan, an inability to find consistent work to support his wife, growing family and the pressure of coping with day-to-day life with post-traumatic stress disorder.

http://peninsulaclarion.com/news/2013-12-30/trying-to-help

Alaska chosen as drone test site

News that Alaska has been chosen as a test site for the integration of drones into U.S. airspace is being welcomed by state political leaders.

http://peninsulaclarion.com/news/2013-12-30/alaska-chosen-as-drone-test-site

6,800 Mich. residents pick health insurance through online marketplace

Fewer than 7,000 Michigan residents purchased health insurance through the federal government's online insurance marketplace during the first two months of enrollment, a small number considering hundreds of thousands of people are anticipated to be covered in 2014.

http://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20131211/NEWS01/131219954/6800-mich-residents-pick-health-insurance-through-online-marketplace

Lt Gov: Duck Dynasty important to La. tourism

Louisiana's lieutenant governor says the "Duck Dynasty" reality TV show is important to state tourism - and he could help connect the Robertson family with new producers if they cannot reach agreement with the A&E network.

http://www.fosters.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20131231/GJLIFESTYLES/131229708/-1/ROCTIMES

W. Mass. man shares photographic talent in book

Muhammad Ali. Al Pacino. Yasser Arafat. Billy Graham. George W. Bush. Joni Mitchell.

http://www.fosters.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20131231/GJLIFESTYLES/131229455/-1/ROCTIMES

News briefs from around Kentucky at 1:58 a.m. EST

Texas Gov. Rick Perry will visit the home turf of a potential presidential rival to headline a fundraiser that's part of a strong push by Kentucky Republicans to flip control of the state House in their favor in 2014.

http://www.krmg.com/ap/ap/legislative/news-briefs-from-around-kentucky-at-158-am-est/ncYj3/

Bobbleheads honor Supreme Court justices

This photo taken Nov. 20, 2013 shows bobblehead dolls representing Supreme Court Justices, from left, David Souter, William Rehnquist, Antonin Scalia, and Ruth Ginsburg, in Washington.

http://www.bellinghamherald.com/2013/12/31/3397860/bobbleheads-honor-supreme-court.html

GOP can count ways to Senate majority

Republicans count enough competitive races to challenge Democrats for control of the Senate in the 2014 elections, if only they can figure out what to do with the tea party.

http://www.times-gazette.com/ap%20general%20news/2013/12/30/gop-can-count-ways-to-senate-majority

Illuminating Lessons of 2013

This report on the State of Conservatism comes at the end of an annus mirabilis for conservatives.

http://www.sunshinestatenews.com/story/illuminating-lessons-2013

A look at the contested Senate GOP primaries

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who is bidding for a sixth term with the possibility of the ultimate prize of majority leader, faces tea party-backed businessman Matt Bevin.

http://www.sunherald.com/2013/12/30/5223646/a-look-at-the-contested-senate.html#storylink=rss

2016 campaign checklist: They've all been so busy

Non-denial denial: "I am not going to declare tonight ... that I am or I'm not running for president."

http://www.sunherald.com/2013/12/30/5215105/2016-campaign-checklist-theyve.html#storylink=rss

Dallas billionaire Harold Simmons dead at 82

Dallas billionaire and heavyweight GOP political donor Harold Simmons, who has given tens of millions of dollars to Republican candidates, including Texas Gov. Rick Perry and former presidential candidate Mitt Romney, has died.

http://cnsnews.com/news/article/dallas-billionaire-harold-simmons-dead-82

A field in motion: 2016 presidential campaign prospects have picked up the pace

Non-denial denial: "Second chances are what America has always been about." ABC "This Week," Nov. 10. Says he'll decide in coming year.

http://www.startribune.com/politics/237928561.html

Health care sign-ups soaring - Mon, 30 Dec 2013 PST

A December surge propelled health care sign-ups through the government's rehabilitated website past the 1 million mark, the Obama administration said Sunday, reflecting new vigor for the problem-plagued federal insurance exchange.

http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2013/dec/30/health-care-sign-ups-soaring/

Suspect killed after weeklong bank robbing spree - Mon, 30 Dec 2013 PST

A man suspected in a weeklong bank robbery spree that spanned from Georgia to Arizona and included the shooting death of a Mississippi police officer was arrested in 2010 after making online threats against the president, a Secret Service spokesman said Sunday.

http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2013/dec/30/suspect-killed-after-weeklong-bank-robbing-spree/

Dallas billionaire, GOP backer Harold Simmons dead at 82 - Mon, 30 Dec 2013 PST

Dallas billionaire and heavyweight GOP political donor Harold Simmons, who has given tens of millions of dollars to Republican candidates, including Texas Gov. Rick Perry and former presidential candidate Mitt Romney, has died.

http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2013/dec/30/dallas-billionaire-gop-backer-harold-simmons-dead/

New leadership taking over at regional airport

"I'm still going to be a shadow warrior for the airport," said Moore, who will officially leave the position Jan. 8. "I will be working with Jeff in the background and sitting on the board."

http://www.mariettatimes.com/page/content.detail/id/556119/New-leadership-taking-over-at-regional-airport.html?nav=5002

Optimizely Aims To Up Conversions

Many online marketers have found that an emphasis on search-engine optimization doesn't accomplish their marketing goals.

http://www.newsfactor.com/news/Optimizely-Aims-To-Up-Conversions/story.xhtml?story_id=13200F3RWID0

NSA Phone Records Collection Legal

The ruling by U.S. District Judge William Pauley in favor of the NSA conflicts with last week's ruling by a federal judge in Washington, D.C., that NSA's mass call-tracking program violates the Fourth Amendment.

http://www.newsfactor.com/news/NSA-Phone-Records-Collection-Legal/story.xhtml?story_id=132004JXCRVO

Reviews of 2013 mixed, but hopes all high for 2014

The approaching New Year is seen by many as an opportunity to plan for the future, but can also be used to view the experiences of the present.

http://www.fosters.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20131230/GJNEWS_01/131239989

opinion | Marcela Garc aHaitians without a nation

Louissien Pierra, 25, who was born in the Dominican Republic, held his 2-year-old daughter in November as they waited to board a bus to a Haitian town where they have family.

http://www.bostonglobe.com/opinion/2013/12/30/haitians-dominican-republic-immigration-ruling-leaves-community-stateless/7XLAA20GHC4RV5No9fw26M/story.html

A majority in Senate could be in sight for GOP

Republicans count enough competitive races to challenge Democrats for control of the Senate in the 2014 elections, if only they can figure out what to do with the Tea Party movement.

http://www.bostonglobe.com/news/nation/2013/12/30/gop-can-see-its-way-senate-majority/1w18bKwQvOCJJJ4BtgbpvN/story.html

FBI says phone links man, robberies

A suspect killed by Phoenix police in a bank robbery attempt is believed to be the same man accused in the shooting death of a Mississippi police officer and the wounding of another, the FBI said Sunday.

http://www.bostonglobe.com/news/nation/2013/12/30/fbi-says-phone-records-link-suspect-robberies/DNW9WMbmzudsWTldeZxoJI/story.html

Fewer held for ouster from US

The number of immigrants jailed for deportation in New England plunged last year, despite federal immigration officials' expansion of a controversial program designed to catch illegal immigrants.

http://www.bostonglobe.com/metro/2013/12/30/immigrant-jailings-decline-new-england/xK30gHzFL2ZaNqZynti1uN/story.html

Secret Service: Robbery suspect arrested in 2010

Stauffer Presser, center, reacts on Sunday, Dec. 29, 2013, as FBI Special Agent in Charge Danile McMullen announces they believe the bank robber who killed her husband, Sgt.

http://www.timesunion.com/news/crime/article/Secret-Service-Robbery-suspect-arrested-in-2010-5100917.php

BAE Systems to recruit apprentices

British defence giant BAE Systems is to recruit a record 568 apprentices in 2014 to build the next generation of nuclear submarines.

http://www.thisisguernsey.com/business/uk-money/2013/12/30/bae-systems-to-recruit-apprentices/

2016 campaign checklist: They've all been so busy

The 2016 presidential campaign is well underway. Not in name, so much, but rather in the deeds of more than a dozen people who might run.

http://www.grahamleader.com/texasnews/ci_24814832/2016-campaign-checklist-theyve-all-been-so-busy

In governor's races, Democrats eye wage increase

Democrats hoping to unseat Republican governors running for re-election next year are increasingly taking up the cause of a minimum wage increase.

http://www.kwqc.com/story/24322057/in-governors-races-democrats-eye-wage-increase

The Notea s Must-Reads for Monday, December 30, 2013

The Note's Must-Reads are a round-up of today's political headlines and stories from ABC News and the top U.S. newspapers.

http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/politics/2013/12/the-notes-must-reads-for-monday-december-30-2013/

AAR Posts Second Quarter Fiscal Year 2014 Results

AAR reported second quarter fiscal year 2014 consolidated sales of $540.7 million and net income of $20.0 million , or $0.50 per diluted share.

http://www.hispanicbusiness.com/2013/12/29/aar_posts_second_quarter_fiscal_year.htm

High stakes for US families losing jobless benefit

The end of unemployment checks for more than a million people on Saturday is driving out-of-work Americans to consider selling cars, moving and taking minimum wage work after already slashing household budgets and pawning personal possessions to make ends meet.

http://www.kwqc.com/story/24318680/high-stakes-for-us-families-losing-jobless-benefit

Editorials from around the country

It was astonishing to hear President Barack Obama, in the preamble to his end-of-year news conference last week, cite Syria as one of his foreign policy successes.

http://www.dailycamera.com/editorials/ci_24789970/editorials-from-around-country?source=rss

SW Ohio Democrat may enter race for governor

Democrats have been setting their sights on taking back the governor's office from Republican John Kasich. But a primary could be costly for the party and the candidates.

http://www.fox19.com/story/24324880/sw-ohio-democrat-may-enter-race-for-governor

FrontPage Magazine's 2013 Man of the Year: Sen. Ted Cruz

"Seize the power back from those who would deny you its use and protection; wield it then for yourselves to secure your lives, your liberty, and your honor!" -- GettysBLOG "It is the duty of every citizen according to his best capacities to give validity to his convictions in political affairs."

http://centristatheart.blogspot.com/2013/12/frontpage-magazines-2013-man-of-year.html

No Church for Obama Family on Christmas Day

NO CHURCH FOR OBAMA FAMILY ON CHRISTMAS DAY - The President and his family, enjoying a 17-day vacation in Hawaii, did not attend Church on Christmas Day. Ironically, President Obama recently asked all Christians to remember the religious aspects of Christmas and not to exaggerate the commercial.

http://www.memeorandum.com/131230/p2#a131230p2

Credentials and a few words for junior officers.

Credentials and a few words for junior officers. - "Transparency and the rule of law will be the touchstones of this presidency."

http://www.memeorandum.com/131230/p3#a131230p3

Obamacare 'Pajama Boy' Controversy Wrapped in Anti-Semitism

Obamacare 'Pajama Boy' Controversy Wrapped in Anti-Semitism - Right Wing Anger at 'Jewish' Star of Viral Health Care Ad - Surely the silliest kerfluffle of a political year that contained much silliness was the recent conservative hand-wringing over "Pajama Boy."

http://www.memeorandum.com/131230/p4#a131230p4

TD run by 7-year-old voted top Nebraska story

The 69-yard scamper by little Jack Hoffman occurred during the spring intrasquad game.

http://www.kansas.com/2013/12/30/3197515/td-run-by-7-year-old-voted-top.html

AP Top News at 3:12 a.m. EST

A bomb blast tore through a trolleybus in the city of Volgograd on Monday morning, killing at least 10 people a day after a suicide bombing that killed at least 17 at the city's main railway station.

http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2013/dec/30/ap-top-news-at-312-am-est/

2013 in review: Health care, hep C sentence in NH

The year in New Hampshire news included high-profile crimes and court battles, the death of prominent figures, legislative fights over Medicaid and gambling and the persistent whisper of politics, both presidential and local.

http://www.fosters.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20131230/GJNEWS_01/131239983/-1/FOSNEWS0409

Next 25 Articles

U.S. Supreme Court Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor will take center stage among about 1 million revelers in New YorkA s Times Square to usher in 2014 by pressing the button to lower the iconic countdown ball, organizers said on Sunday.

http://lucianne.com/main2/?fcnt=766335

Teen Held Without Bail After Police Find Him Covered in Blood at Scene of Horrifying, Sadistic Murder

An 18-year-old Chicago man has been ordered held without bail after he allegedly hammered a hole into the head of his aunt's boyfriend early on Christmas morning then decapitated and dismembered him, authorities said.

http://www.theblaze.com/stories/2013/12/30/teen-held-without-bail-after-police-find-him-covered-in-blood-at-scene-of-horrifying-sadistic-murder/

USDA Issues "Food Price Outlook" Report

USDA ISSUES "FOOD PRICE OUTLOOK" REPORT Dec. 30, 2013 Economic Research Service reports: To view the complete report, click here The Consumer Price Index for food is probably the most widely used indicator of changes in retail food prices.

http://www.agrimarketing.com/s/86292

Israeli Public favors Teaching Peace, Palestinian Narrative in Schools

Dear Informed Comment READERS: Thank you for your support for the last twelve years.

http://www.juancole.com/2013/12/teaching-palestinian-narrative.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+juancole%2Fymbn+%28Informed+Comment%29

Rocky Flats Plutonium Pit Added for Worker Benefits

U.S. Senator Mark Udall and Congressman Ed Perlmutter, strong supporters of Colorado's nuclear industry workers , heralded the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' approval of a federal board's recommendation to make it easier for affected Rocky Flats workers to qualify for federal assistance under the Energy Employees Occupational Illness ... (more)

http://www.huntingtonnews.net/79279

A look at the contested Senate GOP...

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, who is bidding for a sixth term with the possibility of the ultimate prize of majority leader, faces tea party-backed businessman Matt Bevin.

http://www.wivb.com/news/politics/a-look-at-the-contested-senate-gop-primaries_05958061

A tragedy occurred in Tbilisi this...

A tragedy occurred in Tbilisi this morning. A 45 year-old man accidentally shot his mother dead as he was holding a rifle.

http://www.rustavi2.com/news/news_text.php?id_news=50479

Tbilisi Sakrebulo [City Assembly] has failed...

Tbilisi Sakrebulo [City Assembly] has failed to adopt the municipal budget for 2014 with 18 votes against 21. The corrected version of the budget draft will be presented for adoption to Sakrebulo by the city government after a month.

http://www.rustavi2.com/news/news_text.php?id_news=50477

Obamacare should remind us we are not 'subjects,' we are people | by Laura Hollis

The unveiling of the dictatorial debacle that is Obamacare absolutely flabbergasts me.

http://www.sonorannews.com/archives/2013/131225/guested-hollis.html

Secret Service report: No evidence of widespread misconduct

There is no evidence of widespread misconduct within the Secret Service, according to a Homeland Security Department inspector general's report.

http://www.wjla.com/articles/2013/12/secret-service-report-no-evidence-of-widespread-misconduct--98395.html

The Glasgow Courier Homepage

You can do it one of two ways. 1. Fill out the ' free trial ' form and we'll set up you up for the remainder of your subscription.

http://www.glasgowcourier.com/cgi-bin/htmlos.cgi/00199.1.2349398694009096088/home

It's one-party rule for more and more states

Longtime community activists gather for their weekly protest in Berkeley, Calif.

http://www.jg.net/article/20131230/NEWS15/312309936

Pension cuts to get reassessed

Some lawmakers who represent districts with a military presence - and who voted for the overall budget - are vowing to overturn the pension change as soon as the House and the Senate reconvene Friday.

http://www.jg.net/article/20131230/NEWS03/312309938/1006/NEWS

An 'F' for Bennett

'I must say that this situation is very frustrating and disappointing to me. I cannot count the number of times we have been in meetings with Christel, The Chamber, Brian Bosma, David Long, and others when I have said that we count Christel House as an A school.

http://www.jg.net/article/20131230/EDIT07/312309996/1021/EDIT

Marriage ban to dominate session

The main attraction will be the fight over a constitutional ban on gay marriage and civil unions, which could surpass education issues and a proposed major business tax cut.

http://www.jg.net/article/20131229/LOCAL06/312299954/1002/LOCAL

Secret Service: Robbery suspect arrested in 2010

The Secret Service says that the man authorities have linked to a three-state bank robbery spree, the killing of one Mississippi police officer, and wounding of another was arrested in 2010 after being accused of making online threats against the president.

http://www.wtop.com/289/3532992/Secret-Service-Robbery-suspect-arrested-in-2010

2016 campaign checklist: They've all...

Non-denial denial: "Second chances are what America has always been about." ABC "This Week," Nov. 10. Says he'll decide in coming year.

http://www.wivb.com/news/politics/2016-campaign-checklist-theyve-all-been-so-busy_49416501

Kerry's first year marked by big risks

The first time John Kerry boarded the Boeing 757 he uses to soar around the globe as secretary of state, he bounded up the stairs in a blue knit sweater and jeans, a thick briefing binder tucked under his arm.

http://www.bostonglobe.com/news/nation/2013/12/29/kerry-first-year-marked-big-risks/GyZkScQ8KItxm3ildXtaMO/story.html

Crime stats cloud Riverside County's district attorney race

District attorney candidate Mike Hestrin isn't backing down from his assertion that Riverside County crime rates are rising, despite new numbers recently released by the Riverside County Sheriff's Department that seem to suggest the opposite is true.

http://www.mydesert.com/needlogin?type=login&redirecturl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mydesert.com%2Fapps%2Fpbcs.dll%2Farticle%3FAID%3D2013312280060%26nclick_check%3D1

Political Insider: Local leaders tell us what to expect in 2014

Forget the sugar plums. It seems some people have visions of politicians dancing in 2014.

http://www.mydesert.com/needlogin?type=login&redirecturl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.mydesert.com%2Fapps%2Fpbcs.dll%2Farticle%3FAID%3D2013312280062%26nclick_check%3D1

Clashes in Thailand

The nation's election body has called for polls to be postponed as violence erupts between security forces and protesters.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/clashes-in-thailand/2013/12/26/72a00d86-6e4c-11e3-b405-7e360f7e9fd2_gallery.html?tid=pm_gal

Mass. pols send letter opposing Seabrook relicensing

Massachusetts' U.S. senators and six of its 11 U.S. representatives sent a letter Wednesday to the Nuclear Regulatory Commission recommending the Seabrook station power plant not be relicensed until it proves it has addressed concrete degradation found at the plant.

http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20131220-NEWS-312200361

Filibuster changes needed

Thursday, Nov. 21, 2013 was an historic day in the U.S. Senate. Fifty-two senators, myself included, voted to change the rules of the Senate to eliminate the use of filibusters against the nomination of judicial and executive nominees, excluding those nominated to the Supreme Court.

http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20131205-OPINION-312050337

Ho-Hum: Professor Kmiec Found the 2012-2013 US Supreme Court Term to be Pleasantly Uneventful

Pepperdine Law Professor Douglas Kmiec ["Eyeballing Eqality," California Lawyer, Sept.

http://hedgehogcentral.blogspot.com/2013/10/ho-hum-professor-kmiec-found-2012-2013.html

Graphic: The concussion doctor's connections

NOCSAE gave research grants to entities connected to its board and scientific advisory committee, including $300,000 to the BU Center Cantu helped create.

http://www.bostonglobe.com/2013/12/29/the-concussion-doctor-connections/mguNFwqWHVIF3WRsVDgnXJ/story.html

Graphic: John Kerry's first-year travels

The first mainstage concert of the Boston Early Music Festival was also the North American debut of Mozart's own violin and viola.

http://www.bostonglobe.com/2013/12/29/john-kerry-first-year-travels/MLOBg3yLGKmTZtRG527eoJ/story.html

Optimizely Aims To Up Conversions

Many online marketers have found that an emphasis on search-engine optimization doesn't accomplish their marketing goals.

http://www.newsfactor.com/news/Optimizely-Aims-To-Up-Conversions/story.xhtml?story_id=13100EZNLML3

The GOP's growing divide

President Obama and the Democrats have had, let's face it, a bumpy few months. The debut of the Affordable Care Act was not quite the hair-pulling, garment-rending, world-historical disaster that some critics claim, but it was -- and remains -- messy enough to buff the shine on the GOP's badly tarnished brand.

http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20131229/OPINION04/712299920/The-GOPs-growing-divide

3 key ideas from what will be one of the most important books of 2014

It is an excellent expansion of the thesis outlined in their monograph and Kindle Single, Race Against the Machine.

http://www.memeorandum.com/131229/p3#a131229p3

Next 25 Articles

Whenever a fellow tells me he is bipartisan," said Harry Truman, "I know he is going to vote against me."

http://lucianne.com/main2/?fcnt=766271

Taiwan FTC Fines Apple $670K For Meddling In iPhone Pricing

Taiwanese officials have fined Apple almost $670,000 for interfering with iPhone pricing by local mobile service providers and handset distributors.

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2428731,00.asp?kc=PCRSS03069TX1K0001121&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ziffdavis%2Fpcmag%2Fbreakingnews+%28PCMag.com+Breaking+News%29

Researchers: 'Critical Vulnerability' in Samsung's Knox-Secured Phones

Samsung's Knox mobile security solution for smartphones like the best-selling Galaxy S4 has a "critical vulnerability" which could enable "easy interception of data communications," according to researchers at Israel's Ben-Gurion University of the Negev.

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2428736,00.asp?kc=PCRSS03069TX1K0001121&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ziffdavis%2Fpcmag%2Fbreakingnews+%28PCMag.com+Breaking+News%29

Top Ohio Republicans face down intraparty critics

Conservative restlessness within the Republican Party poses challenges to three GOP stars in the battleground state, where House Speaker John Boehner, Sen. Rob Portman and Gov. John Kasich all have riled up the right.

http://www.chillicothegazette.com/needlogin?type=login&redirecturl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chillicothegazette.com%2Fapps%2Fpbcs.dll%2Farticle%3FAID%3D2013312280027%26nclick_check%3D1

Internet sales tax issue back on the table in Ohio

Inaction by Congress and a recent decision by the nation's highest court to not touch the issue have reopened the debate on forcing Internet retailers to collect Ohio's sales tax.

http://www.chillicothegazette.com/needlogin?type=login&redirecturl=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.chillicothegazette.com%2Fapps%2Fpbcs.dll%2Farticle%3FAID%3D2013312280003%26nclick_check%3D1

Apple Asks (Again) for Permanent Injunction Against Samsung

Here we go again! Apple has filed a motion in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California, asking the court to grant the company another injunction hearing by no later than the end of January next year.

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2428776,00.asp?kc=PCRSS03069TX1K0001121&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ziffdavis%2Fpcmag%2Fbreakingnews+%28PCMag.com+Breaking+News%29

Benghazi attack organized by local leader, not Al Qaeda: report

The deadly attack on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi last year was not orchestrated by Al Qaeda but rather by a local militia leader and other Libyans who were outraged by a video lampooning Islam, according to a new report.

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/attack-u-s-consulate-benghazi-organized-local-leader-al-qaeda-report-article-1.1560636

Where Bipartisanship is Out of Order

Julianne Malveaux, President Emerita of Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, N.C., is a Washington, D.C.-based economist and writer.

http://www.afro.com/sections/opinion/story.htm?storyid=80865

Obama's presidency beset by fits, starts in year 5

His second inaugural address over, Obama paused as he strode from the podium last January, turning back for one last glance across the expanse of the National Mall, where a supportive throng stood in the winter chill to witness the launch of his new term.

http://www.wlox.com/story/24319889/obamas-presidency-beset-by-fits-starts-in-year-5

David Bisard trial is top news story of 2013

Former IMPD police officer David Bisard is escorted through the tunnel of the Allen County Courthouse in Fort Wayne, Indiana as he heads to his sentencing on Tuesday, November 26, 2013.

http://archive.indystar.com/article/20131229/NEWS/312290006/1001/NEWS

Fire Rips Through Baltimore's Northwood-Appold United Methodist Church

Members of the Northeast Baltimore community were awakened by the sound of sirens in the early morning hours of Dec. 27 as the Baltimore City Fire Department responded to a four-alarm blaze on the corner of Loch Raven Boulevard and Cold Spring Lane.

http://www.afro.com/sections/news/Baltimore/story.htm?storyid=80916

Obama's presidency beset by fits, starts in year 5

This Jan. 20, 2013 file-pool photo shows President Barack Obama officially sworn-in by Chief Justice John Roberts, not pictured, in the Blue Room of the White House in Washington, Sunday, Jan. 20, 2013, as first lady Michelle Obama, holds the Robinson Family Bible.

http://www.omaha.com/article/20131229/AP09/312299979

Top Story No. 3: Members of ATF help Stockton take on violent criminals

In the end, Operation Gideon IV, a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Stockton Police Department to target violent crime, resulted in 55 arrests and 84 firearm seizures, including six machine guns, four short-barrel rifles and two silencers.

http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20131229/A_NEWS/312290312/-1/rss01

New Year's resolutions for we the people

No sir. This is not going to be a column about New Year's resolutions for Congress.

http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20131229/A_OPINION06/312290310/-1/rss01

Pardon right solution with Snowden

Former CIA Director R. James Woolsey weighed in last week on the subject of Edward Snowden.

http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20131229/A_OPINION06/312290309/-1/rss01

Federal drug sentences are anything but just

Federal Judge John Gleeson of the Eastern District of New York says documents called "statements of reasons" are an optional way for a judge to express "views that might be of interest."

http://www.recordnet.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20131229/A_OPINION0610/312290302/-1/rss01

Migrant's trick ends in prison

A JUDGE has asked for his comments to be sent to 'someone senior in the UK Border Agency' after he jailed an illegal immigrant with a fake Kenyan passport.

http://www.thisiswiltshire.co.uk/NEWs/10902037.Migrant___s_trick_ends_in_prison/?ref=rss

Bob Kropfli: Affordable Care Act -- Republicans will lose seats in Congress

This is the time of the year to look back on last year and look ahead to the new one.

http://www.dailycamera.com/letters/ci_24802440/bob-kropfli-affordable-care-act-republicans-will-lose?source=rss

Press Ganey Honors Oakwood Southshore ASC

Press Ganey has granted Oakwood Southshore Medical Center 's Ambulatory Surgery and Surgery Center in Trenton, Mich., its Guardian of Excellence Award.

http://www.beckersasc.com/news-analysis/press-ganey-honors-oakwood-southshore-asc.html

Oregon Surgery Center Hosts Senator Jeff Merkley

The Eye Health Eastside Surgery Center in Clackamas, Ore., recently hosted Senator Jeff Merkley, according to a Portland Tribune report .

http://www.beckersasc.com/news-analysis/oregon-surgery-center-hosts-senator-jeff-merkley.html

Executive discretion too far

'To contend that the obligation imposed on the president to see the laws faithfully executed implies a power to forbid their execution is a novel construction of the Constitution, and is entirely inadmissible.'

http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20131225/OPINION01/312250035/1007/OPINION01

Rockies Today, Dec. 24

Top news links, courtesy of Mountain West News. Groups file lawsuit seeking to stop Idaho wolf, coyote hunting derby On Monday, WildEarth Guardians and other environmental groups filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Idaho seeking an injunction to stop the planned coyote and wolf hunting derby scheduled in Salmon on Dec. 28-29.

http://missoulanews.bigskypress.com/IndyBlog/archives/2013/12/24/rockies-today-dec-24

Letter: Congress should set sights on another data theft Target

I read the quotes by U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez, D-N.J., after credit and debit card information from Target customers was hacked, voicing concern about whether the Federal Trade Commission has the teeth to hold retailers liable with regard to protecting consumers' personal information.

http://www.nj.com/south-jersey-voices/index.ssf/2013/12/letter_congress_should_set_sig.html

Former Indiana Congressman Jacobs dies

TV, Indianapolis, reported Jacobs, who represented Indiana in Congress from 1975 to 1997, died at his home.

http://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2013/12/29/Former-Indiana-Congressman-Jacobs-dies/UPI-59741388301209/

Two charged in Alton womana s ...

Two men are in the Madison County jail on first-degree murder and other charges after police found the dismembered body of Courtney Coats, 30, of the 2500 block of College Avenue, Alton, who had been missing since Nov. 23. Patrick A. Chase, 28, of the 2500 block of College Avenue, Alton, Coats' live-in boyfriend; and Brandon L. Chittum, 30, of ... (more)

http://www.gcnewsgazette.com/news/news/609739/Two-charged-in-Alton-womans-death

Letters: Long-term military budget

There has been a progressive erosion of retired military pay and health benefits for many years.

http://www.ocregister.com/letters/military-595060-administration-program.html

Year in review: Cochran kept everyone guessing

Mississippi political observers played an intently watched guessing game for most of 2013: Will Thad Cochran run for re-election in 2014? For most of the year, the six-term Republican U.S. senator kept everyone guessing.

http://djournal.com/news/year-review-cochran-kept-everyone-guessing/?#038;#038;

Year in review: Health care law produces state battles

The Affordable Care Act - commonly known as Obamacare - produced big political battles in Mississippi in 2013, as it did in other states.

http://djournal.com/news/year-review-health-care-law-produces-state-battles/?#038;#038;

New scam making rounds in region

Police are warning about a new twist on an old con game that is making its way through the region.

http://www.gcnewsgazette.com/news/blotter-home_top-news/620896/New-scam-making-rounds-in-region

Federal spending cuts not so easy

Should America cut off the money for Super Twiggy, the cartoon squirrel? At that time, across-the-board budget cuts called sequestration were kicking children out of Head Start and leaving FBI agents without gas money.

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20131229/NEWS03/312299952

Edward Wasserman: Robert Levinson case – were the media right to expose a spy?

At first blush, the Robert Levinson affair seems like the epitome of reckless reporting on national security.

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/29/6029146/edward-wasserman-robert-levinson.html#mi_rss=Opinion

NO evidence Al Qaeda or terror groups had any involvement in Benghazi, says NYT investigation

UNMASKED: After 50 years, we reveal American Pan Am boss was true identity of mystery 'headless man' in sex picture with Duchess of Argyll that scandalized British society Toddler found beaten and abused in blood splattered nursery dies in hospital as mother and father are both charged with murder after blaming each other Amber Alert for missing ... (more)

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2530619/NO-evidence-Al-Qaeda-terror-groups-involvement-Benghazi-says-NYT-investigation.html?ITO=1490&ns_mchannel=rss&ns_campaign=1490

Chesapeake to pay $3.2 million in water pollution fines

Chesapeake Energy will pay $3.2 million in fines and spend $6.5 million on restoration work in a settlement over allegations the company buried streams and wetlands without permits at more than two dozen natural gas extraction sites across West Virginia, officials announced Thursday.

http://www.wvgazette.com/News/201312190052

4 bodies, including Seattle man and son, pulled from crash wreckage

Four bodies have been recovered from the site of a plane crash in a residential Connecticut neighborhood, a fire official said Saturday.

http://www.komonews.com/news/local/4-bodies-including-Seattle-man-and-son-pulled-from-crash-wreckage-219111441.html

Marriage ban to dominate session

The main attraction will be the fight over a constitutional ban on gay marriage and civil unions, which could surpass education issues and a proposed major business tax cut.

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20131229/LOCAL06/312299954

Donnelly gets famed drawing

Back in his comedy days, Al Franken of 'Saturday Night Live' fame was known for his ability to draw a map of America's 48 contiguous states and the Great Lakes in about two minutes.

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20131229/LOCAL0202/312299908/1002/LOCAL

Political turmoil abounded in 2013

This was a non-election year in Indiana. That didn't mean it was a slow time for political fussing, fighting and maneuvering.

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20131229/LOCAL0202/312299907/1002/LOCAL

HIP fails test of simple human decency

Obamacare is a step, not the step I had hoped for or worked for. But the expansion of Medicaid in this state is the only step available to us now that enables at least 182,000 Hoosiers access to a doctor or treatment when he or she is sick.

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20131229/EDIT05/312299986/1021/EDIT

4 killed as Iraqi troops arrest Sunni lawmaker

It might have appeared that Ben Freeman was trying to right some wrongs in his life in the months before police say he killed three people and himself.

http://www.woi-tv.com/story/24317921/4-killed-as-iraqi-troops-arrest-sunni-lawmaker

In quest for Obama library, Hawaii plays underdog

On these sun-bathed shores, Barack Obama was born and spent his formative years, soaking in an island sensibility that his wife and friends say is indispensable to understanding who he is as president.

http://www.ktul.com/story/24317965/in-quest-for-obama-library-hawaii-plays-underdog

Conn. files: Gunman's mother loving but bewildered

It might have appeared that Ben Freeman was trying to right some wrongs in his life in the months before police say he killed three people and himself.

http://www.woi-tv.com/story/24317910/conn-files-gunmans-mother-loving-but-bewildered

NSA phone surveillance legal, federal judge rules

It might have appeared that Ben Freeman was trying to right some wrongs in his life in the months before police say he killed three people and himself.

http://www.woi-tv.com/story/24317900/nsa-phone-surveillance-legal-federal-judge-rules

Judge OKs NSA collection of phone data

A federal judge in New York ruled Friday that the massive collection of domestic telephone data brought to light by former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden is lawful, rejecting a challenge to the program by the American Civil Liberties Union.

http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20131228/NEWS02/712289955/Judge-OKs-NSA-collection-of-phone-data-

More Obamacare changes are coming

While the expansion of health insurance starting on Jan. 1 is the focus of much attention, there are plenty of other changes to the health-care system sprinkled throughout the Affordable Care Act's many, many pages.

http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20131228/NEWS02/712289951/More-Obamacare-changes-are-coming

1.3 million Americans to lose unemployment benefits Saturday

Washington: More than 1 million Americans are bracing for a harrowing, post-Christmas jolt as extended federal unemployment benefits come to a sudden halt this weekend, entailing potentially significant implications for the recovering US economy.

http://zeenews.india.com/business/news/international/1-3-million-americans-to-lose-unemployment-benefits-saturday_91536.html

Target: Customers' encrypted PINs were obtained

Previously Target had said that encrypted data were stolen but stopped short of identifying it as PIN numbers.

http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2013/dec/27/target-customers-encrypted-pins-were-obtained/?

3 Asian workers missing after Saudi oil rig sinks

It might have appeared that Ben Freeman was trying to right some wrongs in his life in the months before police say he killed three people and himself.

http://www.abc27.com/story/24317967/3-asian-workers-missing-after-saudi-oil-rig-sinks

Agent: FBI key in border agentTerry slaying

A federal agent who exposed the Justice Department's flawed gun-trafficking investigation known as Operation Fast and Furious says the FBI played a key role in events leading to the 2010 murder near Nogales, Ariz., of U.S. Border Patrol Agent Brian Terry.

http://lucianne.com/thread/?artnum=766264

1.3 million lose jobless benefits today

More than 1 million Americans are bracing for a harrowing, post-Christmas jolt as extended federal unemployment benefits come to a sudden halt today, with potentially significant implications for the recovering U.S. economy.

http://www.heraldnet.com/article/20131228/BIZ/712289985/1.3-million-lose-jobless-benefits-today

Federal judge rules NSA collection legal

11 attacks, a federal judge ruled Friday that the National Security Agency's bulk collection of millions of Americans' telephone records is legal, a valuable tool in the nation's arsenal to fight terrorism that 'only works because it collects everything.'

http://www.jg.net/article/20131228/NEWS03/312289974/1006/NEWS

Long-term jobless benefits expire

Long-term jobless benefits expire today, which means an estimated 1.3 million people - including 19,000 Hoosiers - won't receive federal unemployment checks that average $1,080 a month in Indiana.

http://www.jg.net/article/20131228/LOCAL/312289988

Furthermore ...

This is, after all, the season of giving and caring, and Monday, just two days before Christmas, Indiana Gov. Mike Pence wrote a letter to President Barack Obama and a Federal Emergency Management Agency official to again ask for some caring and giving.

http://www.jg.net/article/20131228/EDIT07/312289997/1021/EDIT

Apple renews fight on Samsung products

The iPhone-maker Friday asked U.S. District Judge Lucy Koh in San Jose, Calif., to bar sales of more than 20 smartphones and tablets, such as the Galaxy S 4G and Galaxy Tab 10.1, that a jury last year found to infringe Apple's patents.

http://www.jg.net/article/20131228/BIZ/312289948/1031/BIZ

Air Force warns: We could start running out of pilots

The Air Force is flying into gale force winds as commercial airlines start a hiring spree while military aviators struggle with low morale due to cutbacks and idle jets.

http://www.thenewstribune.com/2013/12/28/2967650/air-force-warns-we-could-start.html#storylink=rss

More

The last vestiges of 2013's political wrangling officially behind him, President Barack Obama is setting his sights on the coming year, when a number of unfinished tasks will increasingly compete for attention... The last vestiges of 2013's political wrangling officially behind him, President Barack Obama is setting his sights on the coming year, ... (more)

http://www.wbay.com/story/24317929/numbers-offer-complicated-story-of-health-care-law

In quest for Obama library, Hawaii plays underdog

President Barack Obama was born and grew up on Hawaii's shores, soaking in an island sensibility that his family says is part of who he is.

http://www.590ktie.com/article.aspx?id=d0895564-ed61-473a-8ec7-427425cbf984&catid=0

NSA phone surveillance legal, federal judge rules

The ruling Friday by U.S. District Judge William H. Pauley III and the opposing view earlier this month by U.S. District Judge Richard Leon in Washington, D.C., sets the stage for federal appeals courts to contemplate the delicate balance between individual rights set out in the Constitution and the need to protect national security.

http://www.kentucky.com/2013/12/28/3007458/nsa-phone-surveillance-legal-federal.html#storylink=rss

4 killed as Iraqi troops arrest Sunni lawmaker

The last vestiges of 2013's political wrangling officially behind him, President Barack Obama is setting his sights on the coming year, when a number of unfinished tasks will increasingly compete for attention... The last vestiges of 2013's political wrangling officially behind him, President Barack Obama is setting his sights on the coming year, ... (more)

http://www.wate.com/story/24317921/4-killed-as-iraqi-troops-arrest-sunni-lawmaker

Conn. files: Gunman's mother loving but bewildered

The last vestiges of 2013's political wrangling officially behind him, President Barack Obama is setting his sights on the coming year, when a number of unfinished tasks will increasingly compete for attention... The last vestiges of 2013's political wrangling officially behind him, President Barack Obama is setting his sights on the coming year, ... (more)

http://www.whbf.com/story/24317910/conn-files-gunmans-mother-loving-but-bewildered

Ben Boychuk: Could nothing succeed like secession?

Tim Draper is a clever fellow. A third-generation venture capitalist with a knack for picking winners, cutting through cant and focusing on the bottom line, Draper embodies the sort of entrepreneurial spirit that made California the Golden State.

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/28/6030843/ben-boychuk-could-nothing-succeed.html#mi_rss=Opinion

Official business behind him, Obama looks to 2014

The last vestiges of 2013's political wrangling officially behind him, President Barack Obama is setting his sights on the coming year, when a number of unfinished tasks will increasingly compete for attention with the 2014 midterm elections.

http://www.590ktie.com/article.aspx?id=07f60ded-69b5-495b-ac55-028a65afd5e8&catid=6

Drive-by shooting in eastern Libya kills officer

The government churns out tons of numbers, but here's one you won't see: 0.0002.

http://www.whbf.com/story/24317902/drive-by-shooting-in-eastern-libya-kills-officer

Federal judge finds NSA phone surveillance is legal; ACLU 'very disappointed,' promises appeal

Citing the Sept. 11 attacks, a federal judge ruled Friday that the National Security Agency's bulk collection of millions of Americans' telephone records is legal, a valuable tool in the nation's arsenal to fight terrorism that "only works because it collects everything."

http://www.thetelegram.com/Canada---World/News/2013-12-28/article-3557978/Federal-judge-finds-NSA-phone-surveillance-is-legal%3b-ACLU-%26rsquo%3bvery-disappointed%2C%26rsquo%3b-promises-appeal/1

U.S. military personnel released after being held by Libya government

US State Department spokeswoman Jen Psaki briefs the media and regarding Indian outrage over the arrest of a diplomat in New York City, from the briefing room of the US Department of State December 20, 2013, in Washington, DC.

http://www.dailystar.com.lb/News/Middle-East/2013/Dec-28/242522-us-military-personnel-released-after-being-held-by-libya-government.ashx

Military sex assault reports jump by 50 percent

WASHINGTON >> The number of reported sexual assaults across the military shot up by more than 50 percent this year, an increase that defense officials say may suggest that victims are becoming more willing to come forward after a tumultuous year of scandals that shined a spotlight on the crimes and put pressure on the military to take aggressive ... (more)

http://www.elpasotimes.com/news/ci_24806427/military-sex-assault-reports-jump-by-50-percent

Overhaul of US immigration system didn't happen

Advocates for reform, including the immigrant community, law enforcement, and business and faith-based leaders, hoped this was the year for a comprehensive overhaul of the country's immigration system.

http://www.elpasotimes.com/news/ci_24806377/overhaul-system-didnt-happen

Editorial: Tim Draper must be in an altered state

Tim Draper, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist Republican money man, wants to break the Golden State up into six states.

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/28/6029566/editorial-tim-draper-must-be-in.html#mi_rss=Editorials

USA Military Medals Now Providing New York State Distinctive Unit...

New York State Distinctive Unit Insignia for the New York National Guard are making a permanent home among USA Military Medals' product offering.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/NewYork/UnitCrests/prweb11439848.htm

More

The government churns out tons of numbers, but here's one you won't see: 0.0002.

http://www.wmdt.com/story/24317929/numbers-offer-complicated-story-of-health-care-law

Libya releases 4 US military personnel

Four U.S. military personnel investigating potential evacuation routes in Libya were taken into custody at a checkpoint and then detained briefly by the Libyan government before being released, U.S. officials said Friday night.

http://www.krmg.com/ap/ap/top-news/us-says-libya-holding-4-military-personnel/ncW8h/

Today in History for Dec. 28, 2013

On Dec. 28, 1973, the Endangered Species Act was signed into law by President Richard Nixon.

http://www.dailyrepublic.com/features/today-in-history-for-dec-28-2013-2/

More

The government churns out tons of numbers, but here's one you won't see: 0.0002.

http://www.ktvn.com/story/24317929/numbers-offer-complicated-story-of-health-care-law

Conn. files: Gunman's mother loving but bewildered

The government churns out tons of numbers, but here's one you won't see: 0.0002.

http://www.ktvn.com/story/24317910/conn-files-gunmans-mother-loving-but-bewildered

4 killed as Iraqi troops arrest Sunni lawmaker

The government churns out tons of numbers, but here's one you won't see: 0.0002.

http://www.kswo.com/story/24317921/4-killed-as-iraqi-troops-arrest-sunni-lawmaker

NSA phone surveillance legal, federal judge rules

The government churns out tons of numbers, but here's one you won't see: 0.0002.

http://www.ktvn.com/story/24317900/nsa-phone-surveillance-legal-federal-judge-rules

North Carolina Retirement Planning Firm, Hobart Financial Group,...

In response to an article published by Forbes, North Carolina retirement planning firm Hobart Financial Group says Americans should not count on a rise in Social Security payouts.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/12/prweb11445152.htm

Assemblyman Tim Eustace promises to push for campaign financing reform fix financing of campaigns

Assemblyman Tim Eustace said Friday that he would push for campaign finance reform next year, describing the record $5.8 million spent by both sides in his legislative district as "crazy."

http://www.northjersey.com/news/237794541_Assemblyman_Tim_Eustace_promises_to_push_for_campaign_financing_reform_fix_financing_of_campaigns.html

The Record: Equality spreads

SEX marriages became legal in New Jersey in October. The timing was unexpected, but not the outcome.

http://www.northjersey.com/news/opinions/237794411_The_Record__Equality_spreads.html

Bogota brings in $500,000 in Superstorm Sandy aid

BOGOTA - Borough officials say their efforts to recoup money the town spent during the Superstorm Sandy recovery are paying off.

http://www.northjersey.com/news/237794311_Bogota_brings_in__500_000_in_Superstorm_Sandy_aid.html

Benefits to end Saturday for some long-term jobless

Richard Mattos, 59, looks for jobs at a state-run employment center in Salem, Ore., on Thursday.

http://www.newsday.com/business/benefits-to-end-saturday-for-some-long-term-jobless-1.6680428

Okinawa governor gives go-ahead for new US base

The governor of Okinawa gave the go-ahead Friday for land reclamation to begin for a new U.S. military base, advancing the effort to consolidate the massive U.S. troop presence on the southern Japanese island but also making protests from residents likely.

http://www.newsday.com/news/world/okinawa-governor-gives-go-ahead-for-new-us-base-1.6680575

10 Things to Know: This Week's Takeaways

Many Americans who wanted to be insured at the start of the new year had until midnight Tuesday to enroll.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/10-things-to-know-this-weeks-takeaways/2013/12/27/fc6348ce-6f4d-11e3-a5d0-6f31cd74f760_story.html

5Police file on Newtown yields chilling portrait of shooter and more details of rampage

Connecticut police released thousands of pages Friday from their investigation into the Newtown massacre, providing the most detailed and disturbing picture yet of the rampage and Adam Lanza's fascination with murder, while also depicting school employees' brave and clear-headed attempts to protect the children.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/police-file-on-newtown-yields-chilling-portrait-of-shooter-and-more-details-of-rampage/2013/12/27/2d09a548-6f4b-11e3-b405-7e360f7e9fd2_story.html?tid=pm_politics_pop

Silicon Valley venture capitalist Tim Draper would like to divide California into six states.

Tim Draper, a Silicon Valley venture capitalist Republican money man, wants to break the Golden State into six states.

http://www.fresnobee.com/2013/12/27/3686886/dont-split-up-california-drapers.html

Kansas lawmakers to reopen debate on public pensions

This Dec. 23, 2013 photo shows Alan Conroy, executive director of the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System, during an interview in Topeka, Kan.

http://www.deseretnews.com/article/765644297/Kan-lawmakers-to-reopen-debate-on-public-pensions.html

State of the Union 2014 to take place Jan. 28

Mark your calendars: House Speaker John Boehner has invited President Barack Obama to deliver the State of the Union address on Jan. 28. Boehner sent a letter to Obama on Friday with the invitation.

http://www.wjla.com/articles/2013/12/state-of-the-union-2013-to-take-place-jan-28-2014-98071.html

Corps of Engineers promotes long-term dam safety by identifying problems, engineering solutions

SUMMERSVILLE, W.Va. -- One of the most important missions the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers carries out is reducing the risk of flooding.

http://www.usace.army.mil/Media/NewsArchive/tabid/204/Article/20399/corps-of-engineers-promotes-long-term-dam-safety-by-identifying-problems-engine.aspx

Franklin University Again Selected as a Top Military-Friendly School

Franklin University is pleased to announce it has once again been named to the coveted Military Advanced Education list of Top Military-Friendly Universities in its 2014 Guide to Military-Friendly Colleges & Universities.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/franklin-university/military-advanced-ed/prweb11437892.htm

For divided Congress, water projects...

In this April 30, 2013 file photo, Mike Andersen of the US Geological Survey maneuvers a boat on the Red River in Fargo, N.D., so a USGA hydrologist can take stream flow measurements.

http://www.wlfi.com/news/national/for-divided-congress-water-projects-are-a-unifier_77323763

Egyptian Interior Ministry: Muslim Brotherhood Protest Leaders Will Be Executed

Interior Ministry spokesperson Hani Abdel Latif said in a press statement issued Thursday that the penalty for leading a Muslim Brotherhood demonstration will be the death sentence, even if it is a woman.

http://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2013/12/egyptian-interior-ministry-muslim-brotherhood-protest-leaders-will-be-executed/

More

Big multimillion-dollar water projects, once a favorite target of good-government reformers who made them a poster child of political pork, are back in vogue as a rare force of concord in a dysfunctional Congress.

http://www.abc-7.com/story/24311653/official-business-behind-him-obama-looks-to-2014

For divided Congress, water projects are a unifier

Big multimillion-dollar water projects, once a favorite target of good-government reformers who made them a poster child of political pork, are back in vogue as a rare force of concord in a dysfunctional Congress.

http://www.kirotv.com/ap/ap/georgia/for-divided-congress-water-projects-are-a-unifier/ncWYC/

The tug of America's economy

The United States economy turned a corner this month when the Federal Reserve Board began to taper its quantitative easing.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/editorials/the-tug-of-americas-economy-237459061.html

Northport veterans post reveals new $1.17 million look

Councilman Mark Cuthbertson, James Mahoney, a past commander and member of the Board of Directors of American Legion Post 694 in Northport and Huntington Supervisor Frank Petrone cut the ceremonial ribbon marking the completed restoration of the Northport American Legion Post.

http://www.newsday.com/long-island/towns/northport-veterans-post-reveals-new-1-17-million-look-1.6677225

East Hampton board leaves zoning application to next board

The outgoing East Hampton Town Board has left a complex zoning change application -- involving a family that has farmed for generations -- for the incoming board.

http://www.newsday.com/long-island/towns/east-hampton-board-leaves-zoning-application-to-next-board-1.6677242

As city cycling grows, so does tax temptation

A lone cyclists navigates the bike path last week along Lake Michigan at the North Avenue beach.

http://www.saukvalley.com/2013/12/26/as-city-cycling-grows-so-does-tax-temptation/a8wy9x6/

Looking Back at Oroville and Butte County Heroes

Bill Connelly and I are co-chairmen of the Oroville Veterans Memorial Park Honoring All of Butte County.

http://www.orovillemr.com/news/ci_24799977/looking-back-at-oroville-and-butte-county-heroes

Official business behind him, Obama looks to 2014

Vacationing in Hawaii, Obama on Thursday signed into law a bipartisan budget deal softening the blow from scheduled spending cuts and a military bill cracking down on sexual assault.

http://www.sunherald.com/2013/12/27/5219479/official-business-behind-him-obama.html#storylink=rss

Supreme Court Will Hear Case on EPA Greenhouse Gas Regulations

The U.S. Supreme Court has agreed to hear an important case involving a narrow aspect of the Environmental Protection Agency's power to regulate greenhouse gas emissions from power plants and other stationary sources of pollution.

http://news.heartland.org/newspaper-article/2013/12/27/supreme-court-will-hear-case-epa-greenhouse-gas-regulations

Peter Schrag: Can Jim Brulte resuscitate the GOP?

Jim Brulte, the new chairman of the state Republican Party, realized long ago that his party was huddling in a tent that was too small for the diversity of California.

http://www.fresnobee.com/2013/12/27/3685813/peter-schrag-can-jim-brulte-resuscitate.html

More

HONOLULU - The last vestiges of 2013's political wrangling officially behind him, President Barack Obama is setting his sights on the coming year, when a number of unfinished tasks will increasingly compete for attention with the 2014 midterm elections.

http://www.klkntv.com/story/24311653/official-business-behind-him-obama-looks-to-2014

Strong explosion shakes Lebanese capital

A Roman Catholic church official given a stiff prison term for his handling of priest-abuse cases had his landmark conviction overturned, and may soon be back before the sentencing judge for bail.

http://www.klkntv.com/story/24311597/strong-explosion-shakes-lebanese-capital

Palestinians urge US to block new settlements

Big multimillion-dollar water projects, once a favorite target of good-government reformers who made them a poster child of political pork, are back in vogue as a rare force of concord in a dysfunctional Congress.

http://www.klkntv.com/story/24311550/palestinians-urge-us-to-block-new-settlements

US church official seeks bail; conviction quashed

A Roman Catholic church official given a stiff prison term for his handling of priest-abuse cases had his landmark conviction overturned, and may soon be back before the sentencing judge for bail.

http://www.klkntv.com/story/24311514/us-church-official-seeks-bail-conviction-quashed

exit-arrow-visit|article-5095478|mobile_home_category_body-9248|2

Big multimillion-dollar water projects, once a favorite target of good-government reformers who made them a poster child of political pork, are back in vogue as a rare force of concord in a dysfunctional Congress.

http://m.seattlepi.com/news/texas/article/For-divided-Congress-water-projects-are-a-unifier-5095478.php

Serious discrepancies found in US Attorney's case against Devyani

Agencies, New Delhi A day after Indian diplomat Devyani Khobragade's lawyer contended that US authorities made a mistake in reading the papers submitted by her while applying for a visa for her maid Sangeeta Richard, sources here today provided scanned copies of Ms Khobragade's online visa application which show serious discrepancies found in the ... (more)

http://www.centralchronicle.com/serious-discrepancies-found-in-us-attorneys-case-against-devyani.html

Rahm Emanuel's pet bike issue raising questions

Early blasts of snow, ice and below-zero temperatures haven't stopped a surprising number of Chicago cyclists from spinning through the slush this winter, thanks in part to a city so serious about accommodating them that it deploys mini-snow plows to clear bike lanes.

http://www.timesofisrael.com/rahm-emanuels-pet-bike-issue-raising-questions/

Faith and Charity Calendar

Blood drive: Help save a life this holiday season. A blood drive will take place in front of Chase Bank in Belmont Shore from 10 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. at the bloodmobile at Second Street and Corona Avenue.

http://www.ocregister.com/articles/information-594982-org-jan.html

Why Obama's Hints at Intel Reform Are Mostly Window Dressing

Eventually, President Barack Obama is going to have to go on the offensive in the debate over how to reform American intelligence gathering practices, and on Friday, he offered a few hints as to how he might do so.

http://blog.foreignpolicy.com/posts/2013/12/20/why_obamas_hints_at_intel_reform_are_mostly_window_dressing

Corker spokeswoman leaving to work for Haslam

Laura Herzog is leaving her position as spokeswoman for U.S. Sen. Bob Corker in Washington to become deputy director of communications for Gov. Bill Haslam in Nashville.

http://www.newschannel5.com/story/24237247/corker-spokeswoman-leaving-to-work-for-haslam

After 20 years, Santa Cruz murder victim 'Pogonip Jane' identified as Pacifica teen

In a cold murder case that flummoxed investigators for two decades, Santa Cruz police identified a Pacifica 17-year-old as the woman known as Pogonip Jane.

http://www.mercurynews.com/pacifica/ci_24744431/after-20-years-santa-cruz-murder-victim-pogonip

Officer recovering, public help needed

While one officer is slowly recovering from injuries sustained in Monday's shooting, residents and the law enforcement community showed support for the family of another officer who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

http://djournal.com/news/officer-recovering-public-help-needed/?#038;#038;

Cal Thomas: a 'Duck Dynasty' checklist and free speech

The outrage industry was in high dudgeon just before Christmas over remarks "Duck Dynasty" family patriarch, Phil Robertson, made to GQ magazine about homosexuality.

http://djournal.com/opinion/cal-thomas-duck-dynasty-checklist-free-speech/?#038;#038;

Pa. church official seeks bail; conviction tossed

Sure your liver or kidney could save someone's life. But would you donate your hands, or your face? Signing up to become an organ donor may get more complicated than just checking a box on your driver's... Sure your liver or kidney could save someone's life.

http://www.kxxv.com/story/24311514/pa-church-official-seeks-bail-conviction-tossed

Wild Oats XI, Perpetual Loyal in Hobart race duel

Sure your liver or kidney could save someone's life. But would you donate your hands, or your face? Signing up to become an organ donor may get more complicated than just checking a box on your driver's... Sure your liver or kidney could save someone's life.

http://www.news10.com/story/24310522/wild-oats-xi-perpetual-loyal-in-hobart-race-duel

Who should keep data if not the NSA?

Obama last week suggested that he was open to the idea of requiring phone companies to store the records and allowing the government to search them under strict guidelines.

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20131227/NEWS03/312279988

Keeping canceled insurance gets mixed results

Indiana Number of policies scheduled to be canceled: 108,000 Current status: The state did not allow insurers to continue canceled policies, but the insurance commissioner and insurers earlier in the year allowed an early renewal option that keeps some older policies in place through 2014.

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20131227/NEWS03/312279967/1006/NEWS

SUBMIT

The economic crisis is continuing and the Congressional elections are scheduled.

http://townhall.com/pulse/top-issue-in-2014

US sends Hellfire Missiles to Iraq

Thailand's army chief urged both sides in the country's bitter political dispute to show restraint on Friday, but for the first time since the crisis began last month did not rule out the possibility of a coup."

http://townhall.com/news/politics-elections/

MMEA Detains 26 Illegal Immigrants In Pengerang Waters

JOHOR BAHARU, Dec 27 -- The Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency arrested 26 illegal immigrants from Indonesia in the waters near Pengerang early Friday.

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v7/ge/newsgeneral.php?id=1003794

Californians face new year without long-term unemployment benefits

UC Davis hosts the Jobs Initiative at Freeborn Hall on Tuesday, February 26, 2013 where former Davis alumni help students with their resumes, cover letters and interview skills.

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/27/6029490/californians-face-new-year-without.html#mi_rss=Capitol%20and%20California

Police file to be released on Newtown shooting

For the handful of New York transit officials who dutifully collect and catalog more than 50,000 items a year lost on commuter trains, subways and buses, the monotonous flood of wallets, handbags, eyeglasses and... A Roman Catholic church official given a stiff prison term for his handling of priest-abuse cases had his landmark conviction ... (more)

http://www.wxow.com/story/24311512/police-file-to-be-released-on-newtown-shooting

In wake of customer data breach at Target, Sen. Menendez questions retailer's priorities

The recent theft of customer data at Target, which could have affected as many as 40 million customers nationwide, suggests that the retailer cares more about "the bottom line" than protecting its customers, U.S. Sen. Robert Menendez said yesterday.

http://www.nj.com/jjournal-news/index.ssf/2013/12/in_wake_of_customer_data_breac.html

Chris Christie, Hillary Clinton in a draw, poll says

New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton are neck and neck in a hypothetical White House matchup, a national poll indicates.

http://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2013/12/27/Chris-Christie-Hillary-Clinton-in-a-draw-poll-says/UPI-91711388122200/

Out with the old - and hurry - Fri, 27 Dec 2013 PST

This year, Hollywood reminded us of one long Kanye West rant - somewhat intelligible yet completely nonsensical; intriguing but annoying; and something you wanted to ignore but just could not look away from.

http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2013/dec/27/out-with-the-old-and-hurry/

Battenfeld: Even Mass. pols are reeling from Obamacare mess

I know, I know. That's crazy talk. But that's how bad things are looking for the president and his loyal allies in 2014.

http://bostonherald.com/news_opinion/columnists/joe_battenfeld/2013/12/battenfeld_even_mass_pols_are_reeling_from_obamacare?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+bostonherald%2Fnews+%28News+%26+Opinion+-+BostonHerald.com%29

Editorial: Navy should find alternatives to threatening endangered species

Courts over the years have considered limiting the use of sonar, or sound waves, in naval training exercises off Southern California's coast because of the potential harm to marine mammals.

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/27/6029179/editorial-navy-should-find-alternatives.html#mi_rss=Editorials

Undocumented Immigrants Eligible for DriverA's Licenses Reports Phillips Law Group

Phoenix, AZ - The Arizona Department of Transportation has spoken and under a new U.S Department of Homeland Security policy, undocumented spouses, children, and parents of military personnel granted 'parole in place' will be eligible for driver's licenses.

http://www.emailwire.com/release/143777-Undocumented-Immigrants-Eligible-for-Drivers-Licenses-Reports-Phillips-Law-Group.html

Wrap up '13 with worst of regulators' red tape

The year 2013 will be remembered for many things, not least the miles of red tape that were imposed on Americans.

http://bostonherald.com/news_opinion/opinion/op_ed/2013/12/wrap_up_13_with_worst_of_regulators_red_tape?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+bostonherald%2Fnews+%28News+%26+Opinion+-+BostonHerald.com%29

Peter Schrag: Can Jim Brulte resuscitate the GOP?

As the 2013 season for making lists comes to an end – the 10 best, the 10 greatest, the 10 worst – add yet another 11th-hour contender: The smartest thing the Republicans did in 2013 was choosing Jim Brulte to chair the California GOP.

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/27/6029149/peter-schrag-can-jim-brulte-resuscitate.html#mi_rss=Opinion

Op Images: Armchair travel sparks imaginative journeys

While walking the streets of San Francisco, I often time-travel in my mind. With the city's Victorian architecture, acres of parkland and faded corners whispering of bygone days, the city offers much material to draw me into times past.

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/27/6029190/armchair-travel-sparks-imaginative.html#mi_rss=Opinion

Eugene Robinson: The GOP's growing divide

President Barack Obama and the Democrats have had, let's face it, a bumpy few months.

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/27/6028923/eugene-robinson-the-gops-growing.html#mi_rss=Opinion

Juvenile justice redefined

Times change. And science changes. And however belatedly sometimes the law needs to change to take all of that into account.

http://bostonherald.com/news_opinion/opinion/editorials/2013/12/juvenile_justice_redefined?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+bostonherald%2Fnews+%28News+%26+Opinion+-+BostonHerald.com%29

Experts: Public sick of prez complaining

President Obama's tanking approval rating in newly released polls shows Americans are tired of his whining, according to some experts, who also see a fighting chance for Republicans to rack up coast-to-coast victories in the 2014 midterm congressional races.

http://bostonherald.com/news_opinion/us_politics/2013/12/experts_public_sick_of_prez_complaining?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+bostonherald%2Fnews+%28News+%26+Opinion+-+BostonHerald.com%29

Plunging poll ratings signal peril for Dems

Although polls record just a snapshot in time, the political landscape for Democratic candidates nationally is shaky on the brink of 2014 - the year of the midterm congressional elections.

http://bostonherald.com/news_opinion/columnists/2013/12/plunging_poll_ratings_signal_peril_for_dems?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+bostonherald%2Fnews+%28News+%26+Opinion+-+BostonHerald.com%29

Enrollment in Obama health plan creates dilemma for Republicans

Dec. 12, 2013: Sen. Kelly Ayotte , who said she was working with Democrats on incremental changes to the health care law.

http://www.startribune.com/politics/national/237421111.html

Bloomberg cites success stories, city's declining prison population

Mayor Bloomberg speaks about New York City's Record Low Incarceration Rate and Successful Crime Prevention Strategies with South Jamaica Neighborhood Opportunity Network.

http://www.nydailynews.com/news/politics/bloomberg-cites-success-stories-city-declining-prison-population-article-1.1559192

World in Brief

A month after President Barack Obama announced people could keep insurance policies slated for cancellation under the federal health overhaul, the reversal has gotten a mixed response from insurers, state regulators and consumers.

http://www.reformer.com/news/ci_24799517/world-brief?source=rss

Maureen O'Connor: Lights, camera, Supreme Court: It's about time

One of the top federal appeals courts this month took a major step forward in opening the historically opaque federal judicial system to the public by expanding the use of cameras.

http://www.fresnobee.com/2013/12/23/3681428/lights-camera-supreme-court-its.html

Low Kansas ACA signups reflect paltry national trend

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports that only 371 Kansas residents selected a health insurance plan through a federally run online marketplace during its first, glitch-plagued month in operation.

http://cjonline.com/news/business/2013-11-13/low-kansas-aca-signups-reflect-paltry-national-trend

Ethnic traditions vanishing as Myanmar opens up

Some people in the United States and Canada who've been without electricity since Saturday may not get their lights back on for another day.

http://www.kten.com/story/24305226/ethnic-traditions-vanishing-as-myanmar-opens-up

fishbat, Leader in Online Marketing Companies, Comments on Spain's...

Bohemia, NY December 26, 2013 fishbat, a leader in online marketing companies, responds to an article published by Bloomberg on December 17th, which reports that the Spanish National Police is using social media sites like YouTube and Twitter to better protect the citizens of Spain.

http://technews.tmcnet.com/news/2013/12/26/7608631.htm

Cutler: Maine lagging New England, nation

Maine gubernatorial candidate Eliot Cutler said the problems facing the state are formidable: Its economic activity is behind all of New England; it is the oldest state in the nation; health care costs are the fifth most expensive per capita, and education is sixth most expensive.

http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20131226-NEWS-312260341

Sound Off

Monument >> An Organ Mountains-Desert Peaks National Monument proposed by U.S. Sens. Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich will no doubt attract the Virgin Galactic customers and will boost our hotel industry.

http://www.lcsun-news.com/las_cruces-news/ci_24793424/sound-off-dec-26?source=rss

Letters

Good sportsmanship seemed to be prevalent during most of the Las Cruces/Mayfield State Championship game held Dec. 7. In spite of the inclement weather, both sides were enjoying great football.

http://www.lcsun-news.com/las_cruces-opinion/ci_24793433/letters-dec-26?source=rss

Senator's Chief of Staff Suspect in Child Porn Investigation

The Chief of Staff of Sen. Lamar Alexander is under investigation for child pornography, according to a statement from Sen. Alexander's office.

http://www.newschannel9.com/news/top-stories/stories/senators-chief-staff-suspect-child-porn-investigation-8225.shtml

U.N. Investigators Find Mass Graves In South Sudan

U.N. investigators discovered a mass grave in a rebel-held city in South Sudan, the United Nations said Tuesday, as a possible opening occurred for negotiations to avert civil war in the world's newest country where ethnic violence has erupted.

http://washington.cbslocal.com/2013/12/26/u-n-investigators-find-mass-graves-in-south-sudan/

fishbat, Leader in Online Marketing Companies, Comments on Spain's...

In response to an article published by Bloomberg, fishbat, a leader in online marketing companies, says Twitter could help solve crime in Spain.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/12/prweb11442858.htm

Tampa Immigration Attorney Antonio L. Viera, of Carlson, Meissner,...

It is a shame, because right now many hardworking people who have done everything right are not afforded the opportunity to study, work and live in the United States.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/2013/12/prweb11447707.htm

Hartford's Express Kitchens to Host US Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT)...

Hartford's Express Kitchens to Host US Senator Chris Murphy and State Rep Brandon McGee at Small Business Round Table U.S. Senator Chris Murphy and State Rep. Brandon McGee and the Hartford Economic Development Corp will hold a small business round table at the Express Kitchen office in Hartford CT Jan 2nd 2014 from 9-10:30am.

http://www.prweb.com/releases/cabinetsCT/countertopsCT-MA/prweb11445924.htm

Plane made for Tampa Bay flight anniversary

A reproduction of a sea plane that once flew between St. Petersburg and Tampa is getting ready to take off.

http://www.miamiherald.com/2013/12/26/3837829/plane-made-for-tampa-bay-flight.html

Feds stall while detainees suffer

The office of U.S. Attorney Preet Bharara laid out the government's position to U.S. District Judge Richard M. Berman in a letter made public Wednesday.

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20131226/NEWS04/312269993/1006/NEWS

17 Haitian migrants die as boat capsizes near Turks and Caicos

A marine unit of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force had intercepted the packed sloop about two hours earlier and was escorting it to shore when it abruptly overturned, sparking a frantic search-and-rescue operation in the pre-dawn darkness.

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20131226/NEWS04/312269992/1006/NEWS

Bipartisan bill seeks to boost foreign adoptions

Amid partisan conflict in Congress, dozens of lawmakers from both parties - including staunch liberals and conservatives - have united behind a bill that supporters say addresses a heart-rending issue beyond politics: the millions of foreign children languishing in orphanages or otherwise at risk because they have no immediate family.

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20131226/NEWS03/312269979

Pardons usher in sensible reforms

Last week, President Barack Obama granted clemency to eight people serving long sentences on crack-cocaine convictions.

http://www.journalgazette.net/article/20131226/EDIT05/312269998/1021/EDIT

The Identity Advocate: Are You At Risk for ObamaCare Identity Theft Scams?

The Affordable Care Act has been in the news a lot lately - website failures, blunders, missed deadlines, just to name a few - but now a new trend is popping up with ObamaCare.

http://www.pr.com/press-release/534427

Thai election body urges delay in polls amid clash

Some people in the United States and Canada who've been without electricity since Saturday may not get their lights back on for another day.

http://www.abc6.com/story/24300380/thai-election-body-urges-delay-in-polls-amid-clash

Fareed Zakaria: Focus policy on helping the poor - Thu, 26 Dec 2013 PST

Is income inequality the "defining challenge" of our time? President Barack Obama's Dec. 4 speech on the topic has produced a lively debate, with some supporting him and others - chiefly the Washington Post's Ezra Klein - arguing that unemployment should be the main focus.

http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2013/dec/26/fareed-zakaria-focus-policy-on-helping-the-poor/

Editorial: Lawmakers should get something done or just leave early - Thu, 26 Dec 2013 PST

Gov. Jay Inslee's supplemental budget would add all of $110 million to a tab for the 2014-15 biennium of $33.6 billion.

http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2013/dec/26/editorial-lawmakers-should-get-something-done-or/

Military reunions - Thu, 26 Dec 2013 PST

Receive FREE access by logging in to or creating your Spokesman.com account. U.S. Navy Cruiser Association - The United States Navy Cruiser Sailors Association is seeking former Cruiser sailors, Marine Det., Aviation Div., Flag personnel, and midshipmen to join the organization.

http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2013/dec/26/military-reunions/

CO2 waste from coal plants helps extract more oil from old fields - Thu, 26 Dec 2013 PST

America's newest, most expensive coal-fired power plant is hailed as one of the cleanest on the planet, thanks to government-backed technology that removes carbon dioxide and keeps it out of the atmosphere.

http://www.spokesman.com/stories/2013/dec/26/co2-waste-from-coal-plants-helps-extract-more-oil/

10th Circuit Court denies same-sex marriage stay

The Salt Lake Tribune) Joyce Lewallen, left, marries her partner of 20-years Lecia Johnson as Jackie Biskupski officiates on Monday, Dec. 23, 2013.

http://www.sltrib.com/sltrib/news/57306142-78/court-utah-state-sex.html.csp

Times-Herald letters: State Sen. Corbett reminds to shop local, support state's small businesses

Now that California's economy has begun to improve, many local residents--myself included -- have been shopping for the "perfect gift" for our family, friends and loved ones during this year's holiday season.

http://www.contracostatimes.com/my-town/ci_24789728/times-herald-letters-state-sen-corbett-reminds-shop?source=rss

Danville: Museum exhibit to explore 1964 Camino Tassajara plane crash

The fiery Pacific Air Lines crash that claimed the lives of 44 people just east of San Ramon on May 7, 1964, made aviation history and left a lasting impact on the industry.

http://www.contracostatimes.com/contracostatimes/ci_24782932/danville-museum-exhibit-explore-1964-camino-tassajara-plane?source=rss

Bipartisan budget deal sets off some grumbling

Backers of a narrowly drawn budget deal are selling it as a way to stabilize Congress' shaky fiscal practices and mute some of the partisan rancor that has helped send lawmakers' public approval ratings plummeting.

http://www.heartlandconnection.com/news/story.aspx?id=981971

Ethnic traditions vanishing as Myanmar opens up

Some people in the United States and Canada who've been without electricity since Saturday may not get their lights back on for another day.

http://www.wate.com/story/24305226/ethnic-traditions-vanishing-as-myanmar-opens-up

Health care divides some Republican Senate rivals

Republicans see the 2014 midterm elections as a chance to capitalize on voter frustration with the problem-plagued health care overhaul, but the GOP first must settle a slate of Senate primaries where conservatives are arguing over the best way to oppose President Barack Obama's signature law.

http://www.dailyrepublic.com/usworld/health-care-divides-some-republican-senate-rivals/

17 migrants die in capsizing off Turks and Caicos

At least 17 migrants from Haiti died Wednesday when their overloaded sailboat capsized as it was being towed to shore in the Turks and Caicos Islands, officials in the British territory said.

http://www.dailyrepublic.com/usworld/17-migrants-die-in-capsizing-off-turks-and-caicos/

Today in History for Dec. 26, 2013

Today is Thursday, Dec. 26, the 360th day of 2013. There are five days left in the year.

http://www.dailyrepublic.com/features/today-in-history-for-dec-26-2013/

Army mom: 'My children have always been first'

Simone Holcomb has put her Army career in jeopardy to provide care for her husband's children in a custody dispute.

http://www.cnn.com/2003/US/Central/11/05/cnna.holcomb/index.html

Californians to watch in 2014: Holly Mitchell could make history in the California Senate

Assemblywoman Holly Mitchell, D-Los Angeles, talks during a Legislative informational hearing on gun laws at the state Capitol on Jan. 29, 2013.

http://www.sacbee.com/2013/12/26/6027659/californians-to-watch-in-2014.html#mi_rss=Capitol%20and%20California

The Glasgow Courier Homepage

You can do it one of two ways. 1. Fill out the ' free trial ' form and we'll set up you up for the remainder of your subscription.

http://www.glasgowcourier.com/cgi-bin/htmlos.cgi/00243.1.2373008486819743233/home

Michelle Keeps it Real with Reverend Al

After heading up a 'poor me' sob-story session with mothers in the Oval Office, packing for the nine-hour flight to Oahu, and wrapping up a 16-day Obamacare public relations blitz, 'Mom-to-Mom' Michelle found time to take to the airwaves and dial in to the "Keeping it Real with Reverend Al Sharpton" radio show.

http://www.americanthinker.com/2013/12/michelle_keeps_it_real_with_reverend_al.html

Do Democrats really need to promote religious persecution?

Democrat politicians do not want respectful disagreement between Evangelicals and gays.

http://www.americanthinker.com/2013/12/do_democrats_really_need_to_promote_religious_persecution.html

On this day: December 26

Congress memorializes George Washington, Babe Ruth's contract is sold to the Yankees, Kwanzaa is celebrated for the first time, and a killer tsunami rolls across the Indian Ocean, all on this day.

http://www.krcrtv.com/news/on-this-day-december-26/-/14286064/17831488/-/3mtg1dz/-/index.html

Carson City will appeal order for new trial for teen slayer

Prosecutors say the state will appeal a federal judge's order to grant a new trial for a Nevada prison inmate who was a teenager when he was convicted in the 1995 shotgun death of a 63-year-old man at a Carson City gun range.

http://www.rgj.com/viewart/20131225/NEWS01/312250077/Carson-City-will-appeal-order-for-new-trial-for-teen-slayer

New twist in George Washington Bridge shutdown 'scandal'

Records show that the mayor of Fort Lee, NJ, pleaded for help in easing gridlock at the George Washington Bridge three years before two of the span's approach lanes were suddenly blocked.

http://nypost.com/2013/12/26/new-twist-in-george-washington-bridge-shutdown-scandal/

Our Opinion: Tupelo remembers, and vows to bring criminals to justice

Hundreds gathered at Tupelo City Hall in the deepening shadows of sunset and dusk Wednesday night for a candlelight vigil honoring the memory of slain Police Sgt.

http://djournal.com/opinion/opinion-tupelo-remembers-vows-bring-criminals-justice/?#038;#038;

Schumer pushing for legislation to end prohibition-era restriction

Dating back to the Prohibition era, there is laws which prevent the shipment of beer, wine and spirits to consumers by the United States Postal Service.

http://www.observertoday.com/page/content.detail/id/592329/Schumer-pushing-for-legislation-to-end-prohibition-era-restriction.html?nav=5047

Thai election body urges delay in polls

Some people in the United States and Canada who've been without electricity since Saturday may not get their lights back on for another day.

http://www.newschannel6now.com/story/24300380/thai-election-body-urges-delay-in-polls

Suit over US stop for Arabic flashcards tossed

A former college student who sued three federal agents for detaining him for hours at an airport after he was found with Arabic language flashcards that included the words "bomb" and "terrorist" has had his lawsuit rejected by a U.S. appeals court.

http://www.krmg.com/ap/ap/crime/suit-over-us-stop-for-arabic-flashcards-tossed/ncTwb/