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Sunday, January 13, 2013

France: Hostage dead in rescue attempt in Somalia

PARIS (AP) ? A French commando raid to free an intelligence agent held captive for three years ended in the deaths of the hostage and a French soldier, the French military said Saturday. But the man's Islamist kidnappers said the hostage was alive and that a French soldier had been captured as well.

Confusion surrounded early reports of the botched rescue of the agent, known by his code-name Denis Allex. The intelligence agent was captured on July 14, 2009 and last seen in a video released in October pleading for the French president to help him.

But it was clear that a dangerous raid that the French defense minister said was planned with the utmost of care had gone horribly wrong. The militant Islamist group al-Shabab, which had held Allex for more than three years, said Saturday that he remained alive and in their custody, along with a new captive ? a French commando wounded in the failed rescue.

French Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said one French soldier was missing and one was dead, along with 17 Islamists killed in the fighting. The Defense Ministry earlier said two commandos were killed.

"It was an extremely dangerous mission," Le Drian said.

A Somali intelligence official had earlier said the raid caused casualties but that he had no information on the hostage.

Le Drian said the operation in Somalia was unrelated to the French offensive overnight in Mali to drive back Islamist militants.

Residents of the Somali town of Bulomarer described the chaotic sounds of explosions and gunfire from what they called an al-Shabab base. An al-Shabab official said that fighting began after helicopters dropped off French soldiers.

"Five helicopters attacked a house in the town. They dropped soldiers off on the ground so that they could reach their destination ... but fighting has broken out," he said on condition of anonymity because he was not authorized to speak to the media.

The al-Shabab official said some soldiers were killed, but the group held only one dead French soldier. Later, al-Shabab released a statement saying that Allex "remains safe and far from the location of the battle." The statement said there would be a verdict in his case in two days.

The French attack was swift and loud, local residents said.

"We heard a series of explosions followed by gunfire just seconds after a helicopter flew over the town," Mohamed Ali, a resident of Bulomarer, told The Associated Press by telephone. "We don't know exactly what happened, but the place was an al-Shabab base and checkpoint."

Allex was kidnapped from a hotel in Mogadishu, Somalia, on July 14, 2009 with a colleague who later escaped. They were in Somalia to train government forces, which are fighting Islamist militiamen.

In October, French President Francois Hollande pledged to "use all means" to contact "anyone who can help free our hostages."

___

Keaten reported from Paris.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/france-hostage-dead-rescue-attempt-somalia-123815685.html

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Lawrenceburg, IN 2005 Ford Mustang Used Coupe Cincinnati, OH Rising Sun, IN Jeff Wyler Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Lawrenceburg

*Plus tax, license & fees. Subject to prior sale. Financing w/approved credit.Incentives deducted as noted. Mileage est.based on current EPA estimates, reflecting new EPA methods beginning w/ 2008 models. For comparison only. Do not compare to pre 2008 models. Actual mileage will vary based on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.Information on this site includes 3rd party data believed to be reliable, subject to change without notice. Jeff Wyler reserves the right to correct any errors and /or omissions in the compilation or presentation of this data and makes no representations express or implied to any prospective purchaser as to the vehicle?s; condition, specifications, history, equipment or equipment function, price or warranties. It is your responsibility to confirm any data prior to purchase. Other than MSRP, all offers expire the same date they are published and subject to change. Wyler ? and Jeff Wyler ? are registered trademarks of the Jeff Wyler Automotive Family.

EPA mileage estimates are for newly manufactured vehicles only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle.

Before purchasing this vehicle, it is your responsibility to address any and all differences between information on this website and the actual vehicle specifications and/or any warranties offered prior to the sale of this vehicle. Vehicle data on this website is compiled from publicly available sources believed by the publisher to be reliable. Vehicle data is subject to change without notice. The publisher assumes no responsibility for errors and/or omissions in this data the compilation of this data and makes no representations express or implied to any actual or prospective purchaser of the vehicle as to the condition of the vehicle, vehicle specifications, ownership, vehicle history, equipment/accessories, price or warranties.

Source: http://www.jeffwylerspringfield.com/2005-Ford-Mustang-Lawrenceburg-IN/vd/13096540

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Baltimore Ravens' NFL Playoffs Win Over Denver Broncos Is One For The Ages: COLUMN

Ray Lewis, Peyton Manning

Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis shakes hands Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) after the Ravens won 38-35 in overtime of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Ray Lewis, Peyton Manning

Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis talks with Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) after the Ravens won 38-35 in overtime of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Ray Lewis, Peyton Manning

Ray Rice

Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice (27) celebrates with fans after the Ravens beat the Denver Broncos 38-35 in overtime of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Ray Rice

Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice (27) celebrates with Ravens fans after beating the Denver Broncos 38-35 in overtime of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Ray Lewis

Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis celebrates after the Ravens beat the Denver Broncos 38-35 in overtime of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Denver Broncos fans react as the Broncos lose in overtime against the Baltimore Ravens in overtime while watching a broadcast of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game at Jackson's on Saturday Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. The Ravens defeated the Broncos 38-35. (AP Photo/Brennan Linsley)

Justin Tucker, Sam Koch

Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker (9) kicks the game winning field goal as Baltimore Ravens punter Sam Koch (4) holds against the Denver Broncos in overtime of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. The Ravens won 38-35. Left is Denver Broncos cornerback Chris Harris. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Denver Broncos fans react as the Broncos fail to score against in overtime the Baltimore Ravens while watching a broadcast of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game at Jackson's on Saturday Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. The Ravens deafeated the Broncos 38-35. (AP Photo/Brennan Linsley)

Ray Lewis

In a photo taken with a fisheye lens, Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis celebrates after the Ravens beat the Denver Broncos 38-35 in overtime of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Corey Graham, Brandon Stokley

Baltimore Ravens cornerback Corey Graham (24) comes down with an interception of a pass intended for Denver Broncos wide receiver Brandon Stokley (14) in overtime of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Justin Tucker, Joe Flacco

Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker (9) and quarterback Joe Flacco (5) celebrate after Tucker hit the game-winning field goal against the Denver Broncos in overtime of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. The Ravens won 38-35. (AP Photo/Joe Mahoney)

Justin Tucker

Baltimore Ravens kicker Justin Tucker (9) reacts after hitting the winning field goal against the Denver Broncos in overtime of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. The Ravens won 38-35. (AP Photo/Joe Mahoney)

Corey Graham, Bernard Pollard

Baltimore Ravens cornerback Corey Graham (24) is congratulated by Baltimore Ravens strong safety Bernard Pollard (31) after intercepting a pass against the Denver Broncos in overtime of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. The Ravens won 38-35. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Corey Graham, Brandon Stokley

Peyton Manning

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning walks off the field against the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Denver Broncos fans Jill Claunch and Zach Tinker, left, react to a Baltimore Ravens touchdown while watching a broadcast of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game between the Ravens and Broncos at Jackson's on Saturday Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Brennan Linsley)

Peyton Manning, Terrell Suggs, Ryan Clady

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) is sacked by Baltimore Ravens outside linebacker Terrell Suggs (55) as Denver Broncos tackle Ryan Clady blocks in the fourth quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Jacoby Jones, Ed Dickson

Baltimore Ravens tight end Ed Dickson (84) lifts Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Jacoby Jones after Jones scored a touchdown against the Denver Broncos late in the fourth quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Joe Mahoney)

Jacoby Jones, Torrey Smith

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Jacoby Jones celebrates with Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith (82) after scoring a touchdown against the Denver Broncos to tie the score late in the fourth quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Jacoby Joes, Torrey Smith, Anquan Boldin

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Jacoby Jones (12) reacts with Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Torrey Smith (82) and Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Anquan Boldin (81) after scoring a touchdown against the Denver Broncos to tie the score late in the fourth quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Joe Mahoney)

Jacoby Joes, Torrey Smith, Anquan Boldin

Jacoby Jones

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Jacoby Jones celebrates as he crosses the goal line for a touchdown against the Denver Broncos in the fourth quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Joe Mahoney)

Champ Bailey, Rahim Moore

Denver Broncos cornerback Champ Bailey (24) and Denver Broncos free safety Rahim Moore bring down Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice n the third quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Joe Mahoney)

Peyton Manning, Demaryius Thomas

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning, left, congratulates wide receiver Demaryius Thomas after Thomas scored a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Demaryius Thomas

Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas (88) runs the ball in for a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Demaryius Thomas

Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas leaps into the end zone to score a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens in the fourth quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Peyton Manning

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning passes against the Baltimore Ravens in the third quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Ray Lewis

Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis walks off the field during the third quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game against the Denver Broncos, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Ray Rice

Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice (27) pushes his way across the goal line for a touchdown against the Denver Broncos in the third quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Ray Rice

Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice salutes after scoring a touchdown against the Denver Broncos in the third quarterof an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Ray Lewis

Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis holds up the ball after recovering a fumble by Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning (18) in the third quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Peyton Manning

Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning walks off the field after fumbling the ball against the Baltimore Ravens in the third quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Ronnie Hillman, Ray Lewis

Denver Broncos running back Ronnie Hillman, right, is tackled by Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis (52) in the second quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

John Fox

Denver Broncos coach John Fox questions a call from the sidelines against the Baltimore Ravens in the second quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. Left is Denver Broncos wide receiver Demaryius Thomas. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Peyton Manning

Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis, left, watches as Denver Broncos quarterback Peyton Manning calls a play at the line of scrimmage against the Baltimore Ravens in the second quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Eric Decker, Knowshon Moreno

Denver Broncos wide receiver Eric Decker (87) celebrates with teammates after running back Knowshon Moreno (27) caught a touchdown pass against the Baltimore Ravens in the second quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Eric Decker

Denver Broncos wide receiver Eric Decker breaks away from Baltimore Ravens defensive back Chykie Brown (23) in the second quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Joe Flacco

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco passes against the Denver Broncos in the second quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Trindon Holliday, John Fox

Denver Broncos wide receiver Trindon Holliday is greeted by Denver Broncos coach John Fox after running a punt return back 90 yards for a touch down against the Baltimore Ravens in the first quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski)

Ray Lewis

Baltimore Ravens inside linebacker Ray Lewis watches a replay from the sidelines in the second quarter against the Denver Broncos during an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Joe Flacco, Derek Wolfe

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) fumbles the ball as Denver Broncos defensive end Derek Wolfe looks for the loose ball in the third quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Keith Brooking

Denver Broncos middle linebacker Keith Brooking holds up the ball after recovering a fumble by the Baltimore Ravens in the third quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

David Bruton

Denver Broncos free safety David Bruton (30) shouts after sacking Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco in the third quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

David Bruton, Joe Flacco

Denver Broncos free safety David Bruton (30) sacks Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco in the third quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Denver Broncos fans celebrate a Broncos touchdown while watching a broadcast of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game between the Denver Broncos and the Baltimore Ravens at Jackson's on Saturday Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Brennan Linsley)

Joe Flacco, Robert Ayers, David Bruton

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) is sacked by Denver Broncos defensive end Robert Ayers (91) and Denver Broncos free safety David Bruton (30) in the third quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

Joe Flacco, Derek Wolfe, Wesley Woodyard

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) fumbles the ball as he is hit by Denver Broncos defensive end Derek Wolfe (95) and Denver Broncos outside linebacker Wesley Woodyard (52) in the third quarter of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. Denver recovered the ball on the play. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Trindon Holliday

Denver Broncos wide receiver Trindon Holliday (11) evades the Baltimore Ravens defense as he runs the opening kickoff of the second half back for a touchdown during an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Joe Mahoney)

Trindon Holliday

Denver Broncos wide receiver Trindon Holliday runs the opening kickoff of the second half back for a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens during an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Trindon Holliday

Denver Broncos wide receiver Trindon Holliday crosses the goal line for a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens on the opening kickoff of the second half of an AFC divisional playoff NFL football game, Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, in Denver. (AP Photo/Jack Dempsey)

Source: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/13/baltimore-ravens-nfl-playoffs-broncos_n_2465340.html

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Flu more widespread in US; eases off in some areas

NEW YORK (AP) ? Flu is now widespread in all but three states as the nation grapples with an earlier-than-normal season. But there was one bit of good news Friday: The number of hard-hit areas declined.

The flu season in the U.S. got under way a month early, in December, driven by a strain that tends to make people sicker. That led to worries that it might be a bad season, following one of the mildest flu seasons in recent memory.

The latest numbers, however, hint that the flu season may already have peaked in some spots, like in the South. Still, officials there and in other places are bracing for more sickness.

In Ohio, administrators at Miami University are anxious that a bug that hit employees will spread to students when they return to the Oxford campus next week.

"Everybody's been sick. It's miserable," said Ritter Hoy, a spokeswoman for the 17,000-student school.

Despite the early start, health officials say it's not too late to get a flu shot. The vaccine is considered a good ? though not perfect ? protection against getting really sick from the flu.

Flu was widespread in 47 states last week, up from 41 the week before, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said on Friday. The only states without widespread flu were California, Mississippi and Hawaii.

The number of hard-hit states fell to 24 from 29, where larger numbers of people were treated for flu-like illness. Now off that list: Florida, Arkansas and South Carolina in the South, the first region hit this flu season.

Recent flu reports included holiday weeks when some doctor's offices were closed, so it will probably take a couple more weeks to get a better picture, CDC officials said Friday. Experts say so far say the season looks moderate.

"Only time will tell how moderate or severe this flu season will be," CDC Director Dr. Thomas Frieden said Friday in a teleconference with reporters.

The government doesn't keep a running tally of adult deaths from the flu, but estimates that it kills about 24,000 people in an average year. Nationally, 20 children have died from the flu this season.

Flu vaccinations are recommended for everyone 6 months or older. Since the swine flu epidemic in 2009, vaccination rates have increased in the U.S., but more than half of Americans haven't gotten this year's vaccine.

Nearly 130 million doses of flu vaccine were distributed this year, and at least 112 million have been used. Vaccine is still available, but supplies may have run low in some locations, officials said.

To find a shot, "you may have to call a couple places," said Dr. Patricia Quinlisk, who tracks the flu in Iowa.

In midtown Manhattan, Hyrmete Sciuto got a flu shot Friday at a drugstore. She skipped it in recent years, but news reports about the flu this week worried her.

During her commute from Edgewater, N.J., by ferry and bus, "I have people coughing in my face," she said. "I didn't want to risk it this year."

The vaccine is no guarantee, though, that you won't get sick. On Friday, CDC officials said a recent study of more than 1,100 people has concluded the current flu vaccine is 62 percent effective. That means the average vaccinated person is 62 percent less likely to get a case of flu that sends them to the doctor, compared to people who don't get the vaccine. That's in line with other years.

The vaccine is reformulated annually, and this year's is a good match to the viruses going around.

The flu's early arrival coincided with spikes in flu-like illnesses caused by other bugs, including a new norovirus that causes vomiting and diarrhea, or what is commonly known as "stomach flu." Those illnesses likely are part of the heavy traffic in hospital and clinic waiting rooms, CDC officials said.

Europeans also are suffering an early flu season, though a milder strain predominates there. China, Japan, the West Bank, the Gaza Strip, Algeria and the Republic of Congo have also reported increasing flu.

Flu usually peaks in midwinter. Symptoms can include fever, cough, runny nose, head and body aches and fatigue. Some people also suffer vomiting and diarrhea, and some develop pneumonia or other severe complications.

Most people with flu have a mild illness. But people with severe symptoms should see a doctor. They may be given antiviral drugs or other medications to ease symptoms.

Some shortages have been reported for children's liquid Tamiflu, a prescription medicine used to treat flu. But health officials say adult Tamiflu pills are available, and pharmacists can convert those to doses for children.

___

Associated Press writers Dan Sewell in Cincinnati, Catherine Lucey in Des Moines, and Malcolm Ritter in New York City contributed to this report.

___

Online:

CDC flu: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/flu-more-widespread-us-eases-off-areas-153237013.html

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Friday, January 11, 2013

Iowa City Announces 11th Annual Poetry in Public Program, Seeks ...

Media Release

The time has come once again for local poets to submit their entries for consideration to participate in the 11th annual Poetry in Public Program. Whether you're a published writer or just write on a casual basis, the project's mission is to encourage local writers from all age groups and all levels of writing experience to submit entries. The deadline is Friday, February 15.

All submitted poems will be reviewed by a panel of judges, and selected poems will be displayed throughout the Iowa City community and on local and literary websites from April (National Poetry Month) through the fall. Selected poets will also have the opportunity to read their poem during the City's Iowa Arts Festival in June as well as participate with a local artist in the Poetry in Public Art Program (see www.icgov.org/pipart.

The rules for this year's Poetry in Public program are pretty much the same as they have been since 2002, when the City's Public Art Program first introduced the program:
= The poem must be seven lines or less (not including the title).
= Only one poem per person.
= Anyone who is a resident of Johnson County may enter.
= Poets should avoid using complex formats, layouts, and/or typefaces.
= Poems must be suitable for readers of all ages, and for public display.
= Entries should be accompanied by a 2013 Submission Form, found at www.icgov.org/pip.
= A full list of contest rules and guidelines is available at www.icgov.org/pip.

Entries must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, February 15, 2013. They may be e-mailed to marcia-bollinger@iowa-city.org or mailed or dropped off to:
City Hall
Attn: Poetry in Public
410 E. Washington Street
Iowa City, IA 52240

For more information, visit www.icgov.org/pip, call 319.356.5237 or e-mail marcia-bollinger@iowa-city.org.

Source: http://iowacity.patch.com/articles/iowa-city-announces-11th-annual-poetry-in-public-program-seeks-submissions

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Thursday, January 10, 2013

Mariah Carey Speaks on Nicki Minaj, "Unsafe" American Idol Work Environment

Source: http://www.thehollywoodgossip.com/2013/01/mariah-carey-speaks-on-nicki-minaj-unsafe-american-idol-work-env/

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Monday, January 7, 2013

Six Reasons Obama Chose Chuck Hagel

Back at the 2004 Republican convention, when then-Sen. Chuck Hagel was weighing whether to run for president, he paid a call on the Iowa delegation. His obligatory joke about his devotion to ethanol went over well. But then, to the puzzlement of some in the room, he started talking to his conservative breakfast audience about the United Nations and the need for multilateralism in tackling world problems.

Needless to say, that wasn?t quite what we were hearing from the convention stage, or for that matter from anyone else in the GOP. Hagel didn?t run for president. But as it turns out, his remarks ended up laying groundwork for a different kind of future ? as a potential defense secretary in the Obama administration.

There are well known controversies associated with Hagel?s expected nomination, involving everything from climate change and gay rights to Israel, Iraq and Iran. But unlike the case of U.N. ambassador Susan Rice, who withdrew as a potential secretary of state nominee amid criticism from Republicans, President Obama is pressing forward with Hagel.

Given the huge battles looming over immigration, the national debt and other issues, I urged Obama not to pick a fight over Rice. What?s different about Hagel? Here are six possibilities:

Obama does not want to be seen as caving twice to GOP attacks, Rice followed by Hagel. More importantly, he had a solid alternative for secretary of state in Sen. John Kerry. Hagel is unique in several ways, among them that he is a decorated Vietnam war veteran. The two other top candidates for defense secretary, Ashton Carter and Michele Flournoy, did not serve in the military.?
Obama has had his share of tensions with the military, as many accounts have made clear, including retired Gen. Stanley McChrystal?s new memoir and the Rolling Stone article that led to his resignation. Hawks in Congress have also been highly critical of Obama. Hagel would be a solid ally at the Pentagon. He would also be a counterweight to demands for more troops and more intervention around the world, particularly in Iran.
Though he voted to authorize an invasion of Iraq, Hagel later came to share Obama's opposition to the war. All indications are he would be supportive now if Obama decides to withdraw U.S. troops from Afghanistan more quickly than currently planned. Immediately after Osama bin Laden was killed in 2011, Hagel said that Obama has ?got to start heading toward the exits." The pursuit of bin Laden and al-Qaida was "the reason we invaded Afghanistan? after the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Hagel told the Lincoln (Neb.) Journal Star, not the pursuit of the Taliban. "We have lost our purpose, our objective. We are in a universe of unpredictables and uncontrollables," he said.
Hagel would add a tinge of bipartisanship to Obama?s cabinet. He angered many Republicans with his vociferous objections to the Iraq war, declined to back GOP nominee John McCain in 2008 and criticized last year's Republican hopefuls for being in ?race to say who would bomb Iran first.? Still, his overall record in Congress was conservative. In 2007, when Hagel was still weighing a presidential bid, American Conservative Union chairman David Keene told The Washington Times that Hagel is ?bright, decent and conservative on almost all issues.? He said Hagel?s lifetime ACU rating was over 85, ?and we consider anyone who scores 80 or above a fairly reliable conservative.?
Obama and Hagel like and trust one another. They traveled together to Iraq in 2008, and Hagel defended him that year against campaign-trail attacks. ?Obama and I got to know each other pretty well in the Senate even though he wasn?t there very long,? Hagel said last year in an interview with al-Monitor, an English-language website covering the Middle East. ?I have the highest regard for him in every way. I think he?s one of the finest, most decent individuals I?ve ever known, and one of the smartest.?
Senators are sometimes inclined to give deference to their own in a confirmation process. But Hagel's blunt run in public life has provoked discomfort and dismay among Republicans and Democrats alike. The former Nebraska senator has a lot of reassuring and convincing to do before he can count on winning that deference from former colleagues and others in the chamber he left four years ago.

Source: http://news.yahoo.com/six-reasons-obama-chose-chuck-hagel-070002383--politics.html

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