The News Crawler

It was one of the highlights of Gov. M. Jodi Rell's initial, two-year budget proposal in February -- a $7.5 million investment to create the Connecticut Conservation Corps, modeled after the Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps.

State Cuts Costs With Inmate Highway Crews The state has found a much cheaper way to keep highways maintained and cleaned – inmates.

Police responding to gunshots, find re-enactment State police who responded to a report of gunshots in Old Lyme instead found some men re-enacting a World War II Jeep landing.

UI seeks $37.5M to expand services The United Illuminating Co. is seeking $37.5 million in federal Department of Energy grant money as it seeks to make its electric power distribution network more interactive with its customers.

Conn. AG joins fight against adult businesses Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal is joining a small town's appeal of a federal court ruling he says threatens the ability of local governments to regulate sexually oriented businesses.

AT&T Will Host Three Job Fairs

AT&T will host job fairs next week in New Haven and Norwalk in search of more than 100 people to fill openings in its U-verse, Internet and wireless arms.

Welfare To Work Program Is Latest Budget Victim A 13-year-old initiative that helps needy people move from welfare to work is the latest victim of Connecticut's budget impasse.

New Haven cop not guilty of sexual assault

FBI Agent: Terror Suspect Trained in Conn. An FBI agent testifying in a North Carolina case says suspect got terror training at a camp in Connecticut.

Murky Water Closes Waterford Beach DEP officers and Waterford officials are investigating the source of a milky substance with a foul odor in the Niantic river.

Charles Bowden on Mexico's Dirty War Against Drugs Last week Democratic Senator Patrick Leahy blocked the release of a State Department report affirming that Mexico has respected human rights in its fight against drug cartels. Leahy’s move holds up more than $100 million in US aid. The money has been delayed under a law linking 15 percent of US funding to Mexico under the Merida Initiative to Mexico’s record on human rights. On Monday, President Obama praised the Mexican government for its handling of the drug war. We speak with Charles Bowden, a reporter who has been extensively covering the human consequences of Mexico’s drug war

Police

FBI seizes police files in (Katrina) bridge shootings

Feds raid sex ring enslaving undocumented women

US gym gunman's 'internet plans' A US gunman who killed three women in a Pennsylvania dance class appeared to write online about his plans for the attack.

Video: Cop bodyslams grandma, nearly causing 'riot'

Civil Rights

Cop Files Lawsuit: Coworkers Harassing Me Over Wife's Playboy Shoot

Op-Ed: Two-Year Sentence For Rapper 'Excessive' Antavio Johnson, a 20-year-old rapper, has been sentenced to two years in prison for writing and rapping lyrics that threaten to murder two police officers he claims harassed him. In an op-ed for The Daily Beast, law professor Anita Allen calls the sentencing "outrageous."

Courts

FBI Whistleblower Sibel Edmonds Subpoenaed, Set to 'Break' Gag Order Unless DoJ Intercedes

Deposition of Sibel Edmonds Underway, DoJ a 'No Show', All Questions Being Answered...

Judge Sets Hearing on BofA-SEC Settlement Judge wants to hear more Monday on BofA's $33M settlement with SEC over Merrill bonuses BofA And Merrill Lynch "Lied To Their Shareholders," Judge Says

9/11 plotter's questioning ruled secret A Pentagon appointed defense attorney's request for specific information about the CIA interrogations of her client, Ramzi bin al Shibh, an alleged co-conspirator of the US attacks on 9/11, was recently rejected by a military judge.

Jury Decides Former Rep. William Jefferson Should Forfeit Assets

Judge Rules Union Workers Can See Details of Tribune Co.'s Proposal for Top Exec Bonuses

Greed

Report: Scientology's L. Ron Hubbard Exposed as Fake

Pay czar quietly meets with rescued firms The president's compensation czar has been meeting with executives at some of the country's largest and most troubled firms as they face a deadline to propose how much they will pay top employees.

Utah governor quits, will be ambassador

Pakistani Taleban leader 'killed in shootout' Pakistan’s Taleban appeared to be in disarray today after reports of a deadly shootout between two contenders to replace Baitullah Mehsud, the Taleban leader killed in a CIA drone attack last week. Pakistan to seek Mehsud DNA proof

Pakistani Taliban's leader 'ill' The Pakistani Taliban's leader Baitullah Mehsud is gravely ill, his top aide has told the BBC.

Pakistan raid 'kills Mehsud's wife' Suspected US drone attack reportedly kills wife and father-in-law of Taliban leader.

Pakistan starts manhunt for Mumbai suspects Pakistan has launched a global manhunt for 13 fugitives wanted in connection with last year's terror attacks on the Indian financial capital of Mumbai.

Pakistan police book Musharraf Pakistan Tuesday registered a criminal case against Pervez Musharraf, a precursor to potentially putting the ex-president on trial over his 2007 detention of judges as he attempted to cling to power.

Former Adviser to Gen. Stanley McChrystal Calls for Moratorium on US Drone Strikes in Pakistan Andrew Exum is a former Army captain who has been openly critical of the drone attacks inside Pakistan. Exum served on active duty in the US Army from 2000 until 2004, including two years leading a platoon of Army Rangers inside Iraq and Afghanistan. He recently returned from two months in Afghanistan, where he served as part of the advisory team of the commander of US troops there, General Stanley McChrystal.

U.S. to be 'more aggressive' against al Qaeda President Obama's top counterterrorism adviser Thursday vowed the U.S. would defeat al Qaeda and declared the president has urged him to be more aggressive in destroying the terrorist organization.

‘Qaida looking for Baitullah’s successor’ Pakistan's Interior Minister Rehman Malik has said the Al-Qaida is trying to install a new chief of the Tehreek-e-Taliban in Pakistan after the reported death of Taliban leader Baitullah Mehsud. According to the Minister, the Taliban are in disarray and fleeing the area after Mehsud's reported killing in the US drone missile attack.

Police: Indonesian president was targeted A police raid averted an assassination plot against Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono

When in China, Smile...You Are On Camera China police say 2.75 million surveillance cameras installed nationwide.

U.S. Willing to Hold Direct Talks With North Korea

China executes pair over fraud Business people executed after defrauding investors of more than $130 million.

Teens caught in wave of ketamine addiction A 16-year-old Hong Kong boy makes two phone calls for delivery: One for pizza, the other for the drug ketamine. Two teenage girls are found semi-conscious in a car park after overdosing on ketamine. A 13-year-old boy joins a gang and is given free ketamine.

No extradition for ‘Merchant of Death’ A Thai court rejects a request to extradite an alleged Russian supplier dubbed "Merchant of Death," dealing a setback to U.S. efforts to try him on charges of plotting to supply weapons to Colombian rebels.

Burma's Pro-democracy Leader Convicted Burma's pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been sentenced to another 18 months under house arrest.

N.Korea using Clinton visit 'to promote Kim's son'

Defeated Tamil rebels name new leader....Tamil Tigers' new chief 'arrested'

India 'police abuses' condemned Torture, beatings and extrajudicial killings carried out in custody, report says.

Court outburst over Sydney 'plot' Three more men believed to have links to Somali Islamists are charged in Australia with plotting a suicide attack, police say.

Report: Top terror leader killed in Indonesia Southeast Asia's most wanted terror suspect was reportedly killed during a 16-hour siege on a suspected militant hide-out that ended Saturday when police stormed the house.

Wealthy film producer paid for N. Korea flight A wealthy Hollywood producer and a major corporation paid for the flight that carried former President Bill Clinton and two American journalists home from North Korea.

Two Hizbul militants held in Delhi Hours after the government warned about possible terror strikes ahead of Independence Day, Delhi Police arrested two suspected Hizbul Mujahideen militants on Thursday. They were allegedly planning attacks in the national capital.

Spain arrests 'Eta police killer'

Clash shuts US factory in France A US firm shuts a car parts factory in France on grounds of "security" after angry workers allegedly assault a manager.

Eta responsible for police deaths Basque separatist group Eta say they carried out recent bombings in Spain, including one which killed two Civil Guards in July.

German commandos storm neo-Nazi 'camp' Standoff had ensued after owners of hotel housing camp run by holocaust denier tried to evict tenants.

Chechen Rights Worker, Husband Found Murdered Zarema Sadulayeva and her husband, Alik Dzhabrailov, both 33, had been abducted on Monday from the offices of Save the Generation, the children's charity she runs in the southern Russian republic. Her relatives said the men who took the couple away identified themselves as police.

Niger opposition scorns referendum Opponents vow to fight "dictatorship" after president wins vote to extend term.

Click here Updates from Honduras

Chavez claims Colombian troops entered Venezuela

Defense lawyer for Mexican underworld killed

Cartel allegedly plotted to kill Mexican leader A suspected drug cartel lieutenant was in charge of a plot to kill Mexican President Felipe Calderon, Mexican government officials said.

Brazilian Crime-Show Host Accused Of Ordering Killings To Boost His Ratings

U.S. returns $2.4 million in stolen oil money U.S. officials hand to Mexican authorities $2.4 million paid as restitution by an oil importer after the company president admitted knowingly buying and reselling petroleum products stolen from Mexico.

Foes warn Chavez seeks indoctrination in schools Hundreds protested outside Venezuela's legislature Tuesday against an education bill that they charge will open the way for President Hugo Chavez's government to indoctrinate children with socialist ideology.

Freed Uighur detainees get work at Bermuda golf club

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World Headlines
Chechen President Attacks Murdered Activist Murdered rights activist "a woman whom nobody needs" says Chechen president. Chechen Rights Worker, Husband Found Murdered Zarema Sadulayeva and her husband, Alik Dzhabrailov, both 33, had been abducted on Monday from the offices of Save the Generation, the children's charity she runs in the southern Russian republic. Her relatives said the men who took the couple away identified themselves as police. Report: Iranian prison chief dismissed, arrested "One security official at the prison, who was responsible for reporting irregularities at the prison, as well as the prison warden have been sacked and are under arrest," Gen. Esmaeel Ahmadi Moghadam, commander of Iran's security forces, told the semi-official Iran Student's News Agency. Iran admits election demonstrators were tortured Report: Israeli businessmen running sweatshop in Jordan Israel 'won't make Jordan Palestine' Team held secret talks in Amman after MK proposed W. Bank Palestinians be given Jordanian citizenship. ISRAEL: Netanyahu vows never to evict settlers Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged in comments aired by public radio that he will never evict Jewish settlers from occupied Palestinian land, as Israel - under Ariel Sharon - did in 2005 in the Gaza Strip. Iraq Bombs Kills 40, Fears of Sectarian Violence Grows T. Boone Pickens Suggests US Should Demand Oil From Iraq Oil magnate T. Boone Pickens, who has been calling for ending U.S. reliance on oil from unfriendly countries, on Monday appeared to suggest that the U.S. should not leave Iraq without a commitment for access to the country's oil. Kurdish faultline threatens to spark new war An Iraqi army patrol had suddenly appeared in town and local Kurds and Kurdish police immediately took to the streets to protest. Clash shuts US factory in France A US firm shuts a car parts factory in France on grounds of "security" after angry workers allegedly assault a manager.	Wealthy film producer paid for N. Korea flight A wealthy Hollywood producer and a major corporation paid for the flight that carried former President Bill Clinton and two American journalists home from North Korea. Report: Top terror leader killed in Indonesia Southeast Asia's most wanted terror suspect was reportedly killed during a 16-hour siege on a suspected militant hide-out that ended Saturday when police stormed the house. Defeated Tamil rebels name new leader....Tamil Tigers' new chief 'arrested' Police: Indonesian president was targeted A police raid averted an assassination plot against Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono Afghan War Will Exceed Cost of Iraq, Say Experts Airstrikes killing fewer Afghan civilians US Seeks to Pursue Afghan Drug Lords Tied to Taliban Taliban Now Winning; U.S. Commander in Afghanistan Warns of Rising Casualties Another 45,000 US troops needed in Afghanistan, military adviser says Bombs made in Afghanistan more lethal than those in Iraq Pakistan police book Musharraf Pakistan Tuesday registered a criminal case against Pervez Musharraf, a precursor to potentially putting the ex-president on trial over his 2007 detention of judges as he attempted to cling to power. Pakistani Taleban leader 'killed in shootout' Pakistan’s Taleban appeared to be in disarray today after reports of a deadly shootout between two contenders to replace Baitullah Mehsud, the Taleban leader killed in a CIA drone attack last week. Pakistan to seek Mehsud DNA proof German commandos storm neo-Nazi 'camp' Standoff had ensued after owners of hotel housing camp run by holocaust denier tried to evict tenants.
US Headlines
Tax credit is ‘effective solution to poverty’ Data released this week by the Internal Revenue Service shows the Earned Income Tax Credit is a better weapon against poverty than boosting the minimum wage, the Employment Policies Institute said Tuesday. Rule issued to police oil price manipulation The Federal Trade Commission said Thursday it would begin policing the petroleum industry with new penalties for anyone attempting to manipulate energy prices. Banks Make $38 Billion From Overdraft Fees Fees Are Nearly Double Those In 2000 Threat to half of US mortgages 48% will cost more than house; predatory lenders make billions off bailout. Criminal investigation into CIA treatment of detainees expected New Emails Reveal Rove's Role In Political Firings: Read Through Them US Still Paying Blackwater Millions Despite the State Department's announcement canceling Blackwater's contracts in Iraq, the Obama administration will pay the company more than $174 million for security services in Iraq and Afghanistan. WATCH: Physical Confrontation During Specter Town Hall Airs On Live TV Glacier melt accelerating, federal report concludes Gay-to-straight conversion therapy is bogus, APA says Judge Sets Hearing on BofA-SEC Settlement Judge wants to hear more Monday on BofA's $33M settlement with SEC over Merrill bonuses BofA And Merrill Lynch "Lied To Their Shareholders," Judge Says FBI Whistleblower Sibel Edmonds Subpoenaed, Set to 'Break' Gag Order Unless DoJ Intercedes...Deposition of Sibel Edmonds Underway, DoJ a 'No Show', All Questions Being Answered... Cop bodyslams grandma, nearly causing 'riot' FBI seizes police files in (Katrina) bridge shootings Air Force used Twitter to track NY flyover fallout As the Pentagon warns of the security risks posed by social networking sites, newly released government documents show the military also uses these Internet tools to monitor and react	Watchdog says bad assets still threaten banks Despite signs that the financial system has stabilized, banks remain threatened by billions of dollars of bad loans on their balance sheets, and more could fail if the economy worsens, a congressional watchdog reports. Where did that bank bailout go? Watchdogs aren't sure Although hundreds of well-trained eyes are watching over the $700 billion that Congress last year decided to spend bailing out the nation's financial sector, it's still difficult to answer some of the most basic questions about where the money went. Death panels' are already here Insurance companies operate panels that 'ration,' deny needed care. AP Fact Check: No 'Death Panels' in Health Plan Drug Industry Payback For White House Surrender: $150 Million In TV Advertising The drug industry has authorized its lobbyists to spend as much as $150 million on television commercials supporting President Obama’s health care overhaul, beginning over the August Congressional recess, people briefed on the plans said Saturday. Obama Takes On Health Reform Critics At Town Hall...Police Monitored Protester With Gun Outside Event...WATCH: Matthews To Obama Town Hall Protester: Why Did You Bring A "God Damn Gun"? 9/11 plotter's questioning ruled secret A Pentagon appointed defense attorney's request for specific information about the CIA interrogations of her client, Ramzi bin al Shibh, an alleged co-conspirator of the US attacks on 9/11, was recently rejected by a military judge. US soldier charged in cartel killing Obama’s EPA plans fewer toxic cleanups For years, the Bush administration was criticized for not cleaning up enough of America's most contaminated waste sites. The Obama administration plans to do even less. Unions Receive Increasingly Scary Threats Of Violence For Town Hall Participation Feds Bust Mexico-U.S. Oil Smuggling Scheme U.S. refineries bought millions of dollars worth of oil stolen from Mexican government pipelines and smuggled across the border, the U.S. Justice Department told The Associated Press
Connecticut
CT Drug War Two Shot In West Haven Police are searching for a gunman after two people were shot shortly after 10 p.m. Wednesday, WFSB reported. Hartford: Victim Shot In Torso A shooting on Sterling Street Friday night left one person seriously wounded, and police said Saturday that were seeking two men for questioning. Two Vehicles Set On Fire In Bristol Two vehicles worth a total of $40,000 were burned just before dawn Saturday outside a multifamily home at 104 Beths Ave., in what police said appeared to be a deliberate act. Budget and Taxes Postal Service: End Saturday mail The U.S. Postal Service plans to cut billions of dollars in losses by ending regular Saturday mail delivery and reducing healthcare benefits to retired postal workers, officials warned Congress on Thursday Rell's proposed Connecticut Conservation Corps facing economic reality It was one of the highlights of Gov. M. Jodi Rell's initial, two-year budget proposal in February -- a $7.5 million investment to create the Connecticut Conservation Corps, modeled after the Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corps. State Cuts Costs With Inmate Highway Crews The state has found a much cheaper way to keep highways maintained and cleaned – inmates.	Police responding to gunshots, find re-enactment State police who responded to a report of gunshots in Old Lyme instead found some men re-enacting a World War II Jeep landing. UI seeks $37.5M to expand services The United Illuminating Co. is seeking $37.5 million in federal Department of Energy grant money as it seeks to make its electric power distribution network more interactive with its customers. Conn. AG joins fight against adult businesses Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal is joining a small town's appeal of a federal court ruling he says threatens the ability of local governments to regulate sexually oriented businesses. AT&T Will Host Three Job Fairs AT&T will host job fairs next week in New Haven and Norwalk in search of more than 100 people to fill openings in its U-verse, Internet and wireless arms. Welfare To Work Program Is Latest Budget Victim A 13-year-old initiative that helps needy people move from welfare to work is the latest victim of Connecticut's budget impasse. New Haven cop not guilty of sexual assault FBI Agent: Terror Suspect Trained in Conn. An FBI agent testifying in a North Carolina case says suspect got terror training at a camp in Connecticut. Murky Water Closes Waterford Beach DEP officers and Waterford officials are investigating the source of a milky substance with a foul odor in the Niantic river.
United States
Security Issues 250 Injured In Prison Riot In California Air Force used Twitter to track NY flyover fallout As the Pentagon warns of the security risks posed by social networking sites, newly released government documents show the military also uses these Internet tools to monitor and react Temperature issues arise for lead-free slug The Army is scrapping the latest design for its eco-friendly 5.56mm ammo after some of the bullets began to show trajectory problems when exposed to hot temperatures.Army ballistics officials halted production of the M855A1 Lead Free Slug ammunition in mid July, launched an investigation and decided to replace the bismuth-tin alloy slug with another material, said Lt. Col. Jeff Woods, product manager for Small Caliber Ammunition.“We are currently evaluating alternate lead-free materials, and we will resume qualification once a selection is made,” Were NC terror suspect's stories an exaggeration? Authorities believe Daniel Patrick Boyd used tales of fighting the Soviets alongside the mujahedeen to recruit followers into a North Carolina terrorism ring, but U.S. officials in the Middle East while Boyd was there doubt his stories. Army: No charges to be filed in electrocution There will be no criminal charges filed in the death of a Green Beret who was electrocuted in his quarters in Iraq last year, the Department of Defense said Friday Feds Bust Mexico-U.S. Oil Smuggling Scheme U.S. refineries bought millions of dollars worth of oil stolen from Mexican government pipelines and smuggled across the border, the U.S. Justice Department told The Associated Press Education Students Trade Heavy Textbooks For Downloads Some textbook publishers have come out with a software application that would make its 7,000 titles available on the Apple iPhone and iPod Touch. An e-textbook would cost half the amount of the actual book, but students would just be renting the digital version. After six months, the subscription would expire and students would lose access. Environment Obama’s EPA plans fewer toxic cleanups For years, the Bush administration was criticized for not cleaning up enough of America's most contaminated waste sites. The Obama administration plans to do even less. Drug War The Epidemic of Pot Arrests in New York City Marijuana possession is decriminalized in New York State. Nonetheless, New York City makes more pot arrests than any city in the world. US shows off new speedboat to catch smugglers Heroin's comeback: busts at levels not seen since the '70s. Mexican dealers are flooding the market with a cheap form of heroin that is more potent than its predecessors, snaring younger users. US soldier charged in cartel killing Reputed cocaine kingpin to plead guilty Diego "Don Diego" Montoya, reputed boss of Colombia's notorious North Valley cocaine cartel who was once on the FBI's most wanted list, is set to plead guilty next week to U.S. drug charges. Charles Bowden on Mexico's Dirty War Against Drugs Last week Democratic Senator Patrick Leahy blocked the release of a State Department report affirming that Mexico has respected human rights in its fight against drug cartels. Leahy’s move holds up more than $100 million in US aid. The money has been delayed under a law linking 15 percent of US funding to Mexico under the Merida Initiative to Mexico’s record on human rights. On Monday, President Obama praised the Mexican government for its handling of the drug war. We speak with Charles Bowden, a reporter who has been extensively covering the human consequences of Mexico’s drug war	Media Geico Pulls Ads From Glenn Beck Show Over Obama "Racist" Remarks... Several Other Companies Jumped Ship Last Week Revealed: Post reporter coordinated US Atty story with Bush admin. Profit at Comcast Increases 53%, Largely on Higher Prices Dobbs Sort Of Sorry For Saying Dean Could Be Stopped With "Stake Through His Heart" Media Ignore Pittsburgh Killer's Comments About 'Liberal Media' and Obama in His Diary Financial Times Site Plans "Pay-Per-Article" System Murdoch signals end of free news Free 1930 US Census Through the Month of August The 1930 US Census is one of the most powerful resources available to anyone who wants to learn more about their ancestors. Police FBI seizes police files in (Katrina) bridge shootings Feds raid sex ring enslaving undocumented women US gym gunman's 'internet plans' A US gunman who killed three women in a Pennsylvania dance class appeared to write online about his plans for the attack. Video: Cop bodyslams grandma, nearly causing 'riot' Civil Rights Cop Files Lawsuit: Coworkers Harassing Me Over Wife's Playboy Shoot Op-Ed: Two-Year Sentence For Rapper 'Excessive' Antavio Johnson, a 20-year-old rapper, has been sentenced to two years in prison for writing and rapping lyrics that threaten to murder two police officers he claims harassed him. In an op-ed for The Daily Beast, law professor Anita Allen calls the sentencing "outrageous." Courts FBI Whistleblower Sibel Edmonds Subpoenaed, Set to 'Break' Gag Order Unless DoJ Intercedes Deposition of Sibel Edmonds Underway, DoJ a 'No Show', All Questions Being Answered... Judge Sets Hearing on BofA-SEC Settlement Judge wants to hear more Monday on BofA's $33M settlement with SEC over Merrill bonuses BofA And Merrill Lynch "Lied To Their Shareholders," Judge Says 9/11 plotter's questioning ruled secret A Pentagon appointed defense attorney's request for specific information about the CIA interrogations of her client, Ramzi bin al Shibh, an alleged co-conspirator of the US attacks on 9/11, was recently rejected by a military judge. Jury Decides Former Rep. William Jefferson Should Forfeit Assets Judge Rules Union Workers Can See Details of Tribune Co.'s Proposal for Top Exec Bonuses Greed Report: Scientology's L. Ron Hubbard Exposed as Fake

Science
Gay-to-straight conversion therapy is bogus, APA says Deet bug repellent 'toxic worry' Scientists raise safety concerns about insect repellents that contain 'toxic' Deet. Researchers Charge Tyrannosaurus Rex Was a Chicken and a Baby Killer Although past research has suggested Tyrannosaurus rex was related to chickens, now findings hint this giant predator might have acted chicken too. Instead of picking on dinosaurs its own size, researchers now suggest T. rex was a baby killer that liked to swallow defenseless prey whole.	Kepler telescope makes quick discovery Humans, Flores 'hobbits' existed together: study They reported the discovery of a new species of human, one that lived as recently as 12,000 years ago, at the same time as modern humans. But others disagreed, arguing the one-metre-high skeleton was a modern human that suffered from a deformity known as microcephaly. Glacier melt accelerating, federal report concludes
Politics
Gov. Sanford Defends Use Of State Plane For Family Trips: "I've Got A Busy Life" "Baraknaphobia" Disruptions drown out debate at town halls Unions Receive Increasingly Scary Threats Of Violence For Town Hall Participation Extremist Outbrsts At Town Halls Put GOP In Tough Spot WATCH: Physical Confrontation During Specter Town Hall Airs On Live TV Obama Takes On Health Reform Critics At Town Hall...Police Monitored Protester With Gun Outside Event...WATCH: Matthews To Obama Town Hall Protester: Why Did You Bring A "God Damn Gun"? Jon Stewart Vs. Town Hall Crazies (VIDEO) Swastika painted at congressman’s office Senate Senate Reaches Deal On 'Cash For Clunkers' House Elite Jets Set for Use by Congress The House approves nearly $200 million for elite Gulfstream jets. House drops plans to buy fancy jets House Democratic leaders said Monday that they will not force the Pentagon to buy four new passenger jets used to ferry senior government officials. Obama Obama Admin Considers Splitting Fannie, Freddie Back In 2008, Obama Promised To Air Negotiations With Big Pharma On C-SPAN....OTHER FLASHBACKS: - Obama Campaign Doc Pledges To Repeal Ban On "Direct Negotiation With Drug Companies" - Calls Failure To Let Medicare Negotiate A "Profound Mistake" - Decries "Stranglehold" Of Big Pharma US announces $2.4bn industry grant President focuses on electric and hybrid vehicle manufacture as part of recovery plan. White House Takes Legal Moves to Block Release of Detainee Photos Obama's administration formally requested the U.S. Supreme Court to block the controversial images. US Still Paying Blackwater Millions Despite the State Department's announcement canceling Blackwater's contracts in Iraq, the Obama administration will pay the company more than $174 million for security services in Iraq and Afghanistan. Obama Elevates Three More Bundlers & Big Donors in Latest Ambassador Picks Obama Reverses Campaign Pledge to Renegotiate NAFTA Broadcast Exclusive: Democracy Now! Re-Airs February 2009 Report from Shane Bauer, One of Three Americans Held in Iran After Arrest Near Iraq Border FDA Drug Chief Accused Of Conflict Of Interest Pay czar quietly meets with rescued firms The president's compensation czar has been meeting with executives at some of the country's largest and most troubled firms as they face a deadline to propose how much they will pay top employees. Utah governor quits, will be ambassador	Health Insurance Another Blow to Public Option--Durbin Open To Dropping It Drug Industry Payback For White House Surrender: $150 Million In TV Advertising The drug industry has authorized its lobbyists to spend as much as $150 million on television commercials supporting President Obama’s health care overhaul, beginning over the August Congressional recess, people briefed on the plans said Saturday. Inside the town hall sabotage effort MSNBC obtains GOP 'invitation' to Obama's town hall in NH this week. Death panels' are already here Insurance companies operate panels that 'ration,' deny needed care. AP Fact Check: No 'Death Panels' in Health Plan Rachel Maddow & AARP Representative On Scare Tactics Used Against Elderly In Health Care Debate GITMO/Abu Ghraib/Bahgram Portugal to take in two Syrian prisoners Ally warns Pentagon over plans to put detainees in Kansas Missouri Rep. Ike Skelton, the Democratic chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, warns the Pentagon that using Fort Leavenworth for Guantánamo detainees might deter allies from attending the military command course there. Treasury/Federal Reserve/Bailouts/SEC Where did that bank bailout go? Watchdogs aren't sure Although hundreds of well-trained eyes are watching over the $700 billion that Congress last year decided to spend bailing out the nation's financial sector, it's still difficult to answer some of the most basic questions about where the money went. Goldman Sachs admits it's under investigation Wall Street Firms Making $1 Billion Off The Breakup Of AIG TARP's secret history: How Goldman bailed out Goldman... Former Treasury Secretary Hank Paulson wasn’t on Goldman Sachs’ payroll when the US government bailed out his former employer, but he may as well have been. That’s the implication in a New York Times article, published Saturday, that shows President George W. Bush’s last treasury secretary, a former CEO of investment bank Goldman Sachs, had frequent conversations with the current CEO of Goldman during the week of Sept. 16, when the US government handed over $85 billion to rescue the troubled insurance giant AIG. TARP cop cites bailout lobbying A government investigator overseeing the $700 billion bailout reported on Thursday that outsiders, including some lawmakers, lobbied regulators on behalf of banks seeking money. Watchdog says bad assets still threaten banks Despite signs that the financial system has stabilized, banks remain threatened by billions of dollars of bad loans on their balance sheets, and more could fail if the economy worsens, a congressional watchdog reports. Morgan Will Pay Back $950 Million in Aid Stimulus Stimulus Spending Fails to Follow Unemployment, Poverty Obama: Canada trade unhurt by 'Buy American' law Billions Of Stimulus Money Goes Unspent Bush Crimes Criminal investigation into CIA treatment of detainees expected New Emails Reveal Rove's Role In Political Firings: Read Through Them
Economy	Click for Economic Statistics
Threat to half of US mortgages 48% will cost more than house; predatory lenders make billions off bailout. Iran/China and the New Silk Road covered in pipelines Pepe Escobar revisits the New Great Game AIG posts first profit since 2007 2009 Bank Fail Total Largest Since 1992 Job Growth Lacking in the Private Sector FOR the first time since the Depression, the American economy has added virtually no jobs in the private sector over a 10-year period. The total number of jobs has grown a bit, but that is only because of government hiring. GM: New Chevy Volt To Get 230 Miles Per Gallon Rule issued to police oil price manipulation The Federal Trade Commission said Thursday it would begin policing the petroleum industry with new penalties for anyone attempting to manipulate energy prices.	Banks Make $38 Billion From Overdraft Fees Fees Are Nearly Double Those In 2000 Jobless Claims Drop More Than Expected Red Flags Rule extended a third time Sugar price reaches 28-year high Tax credit is ‘effective solution to poverty’ Data released this week by the Internal Revenue Service shows the Earned Income Tax Credit is a better weapon against poverty than boosting the minimum wage, the Employment Policies Institute said Tuesday. Cities Starting To Tolerate "Tent City" Homeless Camps Americans working much harder – for less pay

Iraq	Map of Iraq
Kurdish faultline threatens to spark new war An Iraqi army patrol had suddenly appeared in town and local Kurds and Kurdish police immediately took to the streets to protest. Thursday: 7 Iraqis Killed, 7 Wounded Saturday: 1 Iraqi Killed, 3 Wounded Sunday: 2 Foreign Contractors, 7 Iraqis Killed; 24 Iraqis Wounded Monday: 56 Iraqis Killed, 269 Wounded Wednesday: 1 US Soldier, 13 Iraqis Killed; 23 Iraqis Wounded T. Boone Pickens Suggests US Should Demand Oil From Iraq Oil magnate T. Boone Pickens, who has been calling for ending U.S. reliance on oil from unfriendly countries, on Monday appeared to suggest that the U.S. should not leave Iraq without a commitment for access to the country's oil.	Iraq Bombs Kills 40, Fears of Sectarian Violence Grows Iraq arrests Al Arabiya reporter assassin Iraq: $2,000 for Shiite-Sunni couples who marry Iraq's Assyrian Christians find temporary home in Kurdistan Iraqi Airways Refuses to Carry Iranian Pilgrims Blast walls coming down in Baghdad
Middle East	Map of the Middle East
Click here Updates from Iran Saudi Arabia arrested thousands without trial: HRW Fatah votes for new council members Co-founder accuses Fatah of graft Senior figure makes allegations of corruption and embezzlement as Fatah meetsIran bans Mecca visits over flu 'Kids ill-treated' Israeli soldier says Palestinian minors beaten in custody YEMEN: Eight killed in Shiite-Sunni clashes GAZA: Israeli jets pound Palestinian tunnels at Rafah ISRAEL: Netanyahu vows never to evict settlers Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pledged in comments aired by public radio that he will never evict Jewish settlers from occupied Palestinian land, as Israel - under Ariel Sharon - did in 2005 in the Gaza Strip. 'Terror cell plotted to kill Israeli ambassador'	20,000 gather in Rabin Square over gay center shooting Israeli army to equip its tanks with anti-missile system Turkey approves Russia gas pipeline Erdogan and Putin agree to allow Moscow use of Turkish waters for energy project. Rights group criticizes Saudi Arabia's Al Qaeda reeducation program Israel 'won't make Jordan Palestine' Team held secret talks in Amman after MK proposed W. Bank Palestinians be given Jordanian citizenship. Report: Israeli businessmen running sweatshop in Jordan Spain helping to rebuild illegal homes in e. J'lem 42 volunteers to help reconstruct 2 Palestinian buildings as part of summer "camp." UN denies claims Hamas captured ambulances Kuwait arrests Al Qaeda linked group
Afghanistan	Map of Afghanistan
Three British paratroopers killed in Afghanistan Taliban Now Winning; U.S. Commander in Afghanistan Warns of Rising Casualties Another 45,000 US troops needed in Afghanistan, military adviser says US Seeks to Pursue Afghan Drug Lords Tied to Taliban China Says Plane Diverted to Afghanistan by Threat Chinese state media say bomb threat diverts plane scheduled to land in Xinjiang Taliban attack Afghan poll office Civilians among dead in gunbattle at election office and Afghan government buildings. Airstrikes killing fewer Afghan civilians Afghanistan hires 10,000 tribesmen to secure polls Karzai platform includes Taliban talks	11 Taliban, five others killed in Mohmand clash Taliban deputy calls AP, claims he's not dead\ Bombs made in Afghanistan more lethal than those in Iraq Opium takes over entire Afghan families, villages Ex-Army official admits to taking bribes A former U.S. Army contracting official stationed in Afghanistan pleaded guilty Friday to taking more than $85,000 in bribes to steer business to two Afghan-based trucking companies UK 'may have 40-year Afghan role' Afghan War Will Exceed Cost of Iraq, Say Experts Afghan interrogations hamper military trials U.S. military prosecutors allege that Ahmed al Darbi has met with Osama bin Laden, trained at an al Qaeda terrorist camp, and plotted to blow up a ship in the Strait of Hormuz or off Yemen.

Pakistan	Map of Pakistan
Pakistani Taleban leader 'killed in shootout' Pakistan’s Taleban appeared to be in disarray today after reports of a deadly shootout between two contenders to replace Baitullah Mehsud, the Taleban leader killed in a CIA drone attack last week. Pakistan to seek Mehsud DNA proof Pakistani Taliban's leader 'ill' The Pakistani Taliban's leader Baitullah Mehsud is gravely ill, his top aide has told the BBC. Pakistan raid 'kills Mehsud's wife' Suspected US drone attack reportedly kills wife and father-in-law of Taliban leader. Pakistan starts manhunt for Mumbai suspects Pakistan has launched a global manhunt for 13 fugitives wanted in connection with last year's terror attacks on the Indian financial capital of Mumbai. Pakistan police book Musharraf Pakistan Tuesday registered a criminal case against Pervez Musharraf, a precursor to potentially putting the ex-president on trial over his 2007 detention of judges as he attempted to cling to power. Former Adviser to Gen. Stanley McChrystal Calls for Moratorium on US Drone Strikes in Pakistan Andrew Exum is a former Army captain who has been openly critical of the drone attacks inside Pakistan. Exum served on active duty in the US Army from 2000 until 2004, including two years leading a platoon of Army Rangers inside Iraq and Afghanistan. He recently returned from two months in Afghanistan, where he served as part of the advisory team of the commander of US troops there, General Stanley McChrystal.	Taliban houses demolished 2 soldiers killed as Taliban attack military convoy 12 Taliban held in Swat, Malakand Ma jority of Pakistanis says US is greatest threat U.S. to be 'more aggressive' against al Qaeda President Obama's top counterterrorism adviser Thursday vowed the U.S. would defeat al Qaeda and declared the president has urged him to be more aggressive in destroying the terrorist organization. Concerns over UK-ISI links Amid growing concerns about Britain's relationship with Pakistan's ISI spy agency, lawmakers have demanded an urgent inquiry into UK's complicity in the torture of detainees in Pakistan, Egypt and Uzbekistan following a critical report by a House panel on human rights. ‘Qaida looking for Baitullah’s successor’ Pakistan's Interior Minister Rehman Malik has said the Al-Qaida is trying to install a new chief of the Tehreek-e-Taliban in Pakistan after the reported death of Taliban leader Baitullah Mehsud. According to the Minister, the Taliban are in disarray and fleeing the area after Mehsud's reported killing in the US drone missile attack.
Asia	Map of Asia
Police: Indonesian president was targeted A police raid averted an assassination plot against Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono When in China, Smile...You Are On Camera China police say 2.75 million surveillance cameras installed nationwide. U.S. Willing to Hold Direct Talks With North Korea China executes pair over fraud Business people executed after defrauding investors of more than $130 million. Teens caught in wave of ketamine addiction A 16-year-old Hong Kong boy makes two phone calls for delivery: One for pizza, the other for the drug ketamine. Two teenage girls are found semi-conscious in a car park after overdosing on ketamine. A 13-year-old boy joins a gang and is given free ketamine. No extradition for ‘Merchant of Death’ A Thai court rejects a request to extradite an alleged Russian supplier dubbed "Merchant of Death," dealing a setback to U.S. efforts to try him on charges of plotting to supply weapons to Colombian rebels. Burma's Pro-democracy Leader Convicted Burma's pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi has been sentenced to another 18 months under house arrest.	N.Korea using Clinton visit 'to promote Kim's son' Defeated Tamil rebels name new leader....Tamil Tigers' new chief 'arrested' India 'police abuses' condemned Torture, beatings and extrajudicial killings carried out in custody, report says. Court outburst over Sydney 'plot' Three more men believed to have links to Somali Islamists are charged in Australia with plotting a suicide attack, police say. Report: Top terror leader killed in Indonesia Southeast Asia's most wanted terror suspect was reportedly killed during a 16-hour siege on a suspected militant hide-out that ended Saturday when police stormed the house. Wealthy film producer paid for N. Korea flight A wealthy Hollywood producer and a major corporation paid for the flight that carried former President Bill Clinton and two American journalists home from North Korea. Two Hizbul militants held in Delhi Hours after the government warned about possible terror strikes ahead of Independence Day, Delhi Police arrested two suspected Hizbul Mujahideen militants on Thursday. They were allegedly planning attacks in the national capital. Spain arrests 'Eta police killer'
Europe	Map of Europe
Allies may torture terror suspects, top UK ministers say Chechen President Attacks Murdered Activist Murdered rights activist "a woman whom nobody needs" says Chechen president. UK injects $85bn into economy Clash shuts US factory in France A US firm shuts a car parts factory in France on grounds of "security" after angry workers allegedly assault a manager. Biggest Jewel Heist In British History: Robbers Steal $65M Worth From London Store German Jews back campaign to reprint 'Mein Kampf'	Majorca bar 'hit by bomb blast' A bomb has exploded in a bar on the Spanish island of Majorca, officials say. Eta responsible for police deaths Basque separatist group Eta say they carried out recent bombings in Spain, including one which killed two Civil Guards in July. German commandos storm neo-Nazi 'camp' Standoff had ensued after owners of hotel housing camp run by holocaust denier tried to evict tenants. Chechen Rights Worker, Husband Found Murdered Zarema Sadulayeva and her husband, Alik Dzhabrailov, both 33, had been abducted on Monday from the offices of Save the Generation, the children's charity she runs in the southern Russian republic. Her relatives said the men who took the couple away identified themselves as police.
Africa	Map of Africa
French embassy targeted in Mauritania attack MAURITANIA: Two wounded in suicide bombing outside French embassy SOMALIA: Kidnappers release six foreigners, including two French nationals	Niger opposition scorns referendum Opponents vow to fight "dictatorship" after president wins vote to extend term.
The Americas	Map of North America and South America
Click here Updates from Honduras Chavez claims Colombian troops entered Venezuela Defense lawyer for Mexican underworld killed Cartel allegedly plotted to kill Mexican leader A suspected drug cartel lieutenant was in charge of a plot to kill Mexican President Felipe Calderon, Mexican government officials said. Brazilian Crime-Show Host Accused Of Ordering Killings To Boost His Ratings U.S. returns $2.4 million in stolen oil money U.S. officials hand to Mexican authorities $2.4 million paid as restitution by an oil importer after the company president admitted knowingly buying and reselling petroleum products stolen from Mexico. Foes warn Chavez seeks indoctrination in schools Hundreds protested outside Venezuela's legislature Tuesday against an education bill that they charge will open the way for President Hugo Chavez's government to indoctrinate children with socialist ideology. Freed Uighur detainees get work at Bermuda golf club	Chavez: Colombian 'provocation' saw troops cross border Colombia's Uribe defends U.S. military role in South America Obama denies U.S. creating military bases in Colombia Paraguay landless try crucifixion to get attention It's a gruesome tradition in Paraguay that gets results, at least from leftist priest-turned president Fernando Lugo. A half-dozen protesters have hammered long nails through their hands and tied themselves to crosses or laid in coffins in an appeal for land. Chávez: We're buying Russian tanks Chavez hides domestic unrest with criticism of US, Colombia Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has fiercely criticised US plans to send troops to Colombia to help fight drug trafficking, but his outrage may be an attempt to divert attention from controversial anti-democratic measures at home. In Haiti, abandonment of disabled babies a growing problem Chavez: Coffee plants to be expropriated Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez says his government will expropriate the country's two largest coffee processing companies.