November 22, 2015


News Clips For The Day


http://www.cbsnews.com/news/trump-supporters-black-lives-matter-protester-clash-at-rally/

Trump supporters, Black Lives Matter protester clash at rally
By REENA FLORES CBS NEWS
November 21, 2015

Play VIDEO -- Donald Trump wants "surveillance of certain mosques," database of refugees


During a campaign rally for Republican presidential contender Donald Trump in Birmingham, Alabama, on Saturday, a fight broke out between a Black Lives Matter protester and other event attendees.

One video from the event, shot by a CNN reporter, shows several Trump supporters shoving and kicking a black protester on the ground. CNN reports that the man appeared to have been shouting "black lives matter," a slogan that was also printed on his shirt. The network reported that at least six attendees pushed and tackled the man when he refused to leave the event.

One rally attendee can be heard on camera chanting "all lives matter" as the protester was later escorted out by police officers.

The scuffle drew enough attention that Trump interrupted his speech at the rally to address the fight.

"Yeah, you can get him out," Trump said on stage, referring to a protester. "Yeah, get him out. Get him the hell out of here."

Birmingham Police Lt. Sean Edwards confirmed to CBS News that three people were asked to leave the event after the skirmish broke out. All three departed, and no arrests were made.

This is not the first instance of altercations at the billionaire's campaign events.

During one event in Richmond, Virginia, a Trump supporter spit on a Latino protester, and one woman threw a punch.

In Doral, Florida, at least four immigration protesters were escorted out of the venue.

CBS News' Sopan Deb contributed to this report.




“One video from the event, shot by a CNN reporter, shows several Trump supporters shoving and kicking a black protester on the ground. CNN reports that the man appeared to have been shouting "black lives matter," a slogan that was also printed on his shirt. The network reported that at least six attendees pushed and tackled the man when he refused to leave the event. One rally attendee can be heard on camera chanting "all lives matter" as the protester was later escorted out by police officers. …. This is not the first instance of altercations at the billionaire's campaign events. During one event in Richmond, Virginia, a Trump supporter spit on a Latino protester, and one woman threw a punch. In Doral, Florida, at least four immigration protesters were escorted out of the venue.”


This is the first time I have heard of violence erupting at American campaign events, though at Trump’s there have been several such cases, so perhaps it has occurred before with other candidates as well. This isn’t a good precedent -- energetic shouting and even fist waving perhaps, but not shoving and tackling. Trump did nothing to discourage his followers from the assault on the lone black man, and in fact encouraged them. Of course, the real way that Trump is different from any of the Tea Partiers is that he is more unrestrained in his abusive rhetoric than most. It is disturbing that Trump is the one who is the leader among Republicans in the polls, perhaps as a result of his language. Our country is on a very rough path since the Koch brothers produced the Tea Party. It isn’t that radical rightists haven’t been out there for years, but they were in the shadows. Their voice is being heard much more strongly now. I can’t help having a great deal of concern about this.





http://www.cbsnews.com/news/anonymous-hacker-group-isis-atlanta-threat-not-credible-fbi/

FBI weighs in on U.S. threat reported by Anonymous
By ALEX SUNDBY CBS NEWS
November 21, 2015

Play VIDEO -- Anonymous declares cyber-war on ISIS


The FBI confirmed Saturday that it's aware of a reported terror threat in Atlanta but doesn't consider it to be credible.

Earlier Saturday, the hacker group Anonymous reportedly said that it uncovered threats by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, or ISIS, against the WWE Survivor Series, which is scheduled for Sunday night in Atlanta.

"The FBI is aware of reports of an alleged threat that includes an Atlanta, Georgia, venue and event," J. Britt Johnson, special agent in charge of the FBI's Atlanta office, said in a statement to CBS News. "While we take all threats seriously, we do not have specific or credible information of an attack at this time. We have, however, made the proper notifications as we continue to work closely with our law enforcement and private sector partners to keep our community safe."

In a statement Saturday, the WWE said it and the Atlanta venue hosting the event have increased security measures to ensure fans' safety. The WWE also said doors would open at 6 p.m. to help fans avoid delays because of the additional measures.

The International Business Times first reported the Anonymous announcement.

After ISIS claimed responsibility for last week's deadly terror attacks in Paris, the hacker group said it was at war with the extremists. In a video released Wednesday, Anonymous said it has taken down more than 20,000 ISIS-related Twitter accounts.

In an online statement cited by the Times, Anonymous said the threat against the WWE event hasn't been "100% confirmed."

However, the hacker group also said that it had confirmed ISIS threats against three events in Paris that are planned for Sunday.

Anonymous said Saturday it gave all of the evidence it uncovered to authorities "days ago."

CBS News justice reporter Paula Reid contributed to this story.




“The FBI confirmed Saturday that it's aware of a reported terror threat in Atlanta but doesn't consider it to be credible. Earlier Saturday, the hacker group Anonymous reportedly said that it uncovered threats by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, or ISIS, against the WWE Survivor Series, which is scheduled for Sunday night in Atlanta. …. In a statement Saturday, the WWE said it and the Atlanta venue hosting the event have increased security measures to ensure fans' safety. The WWE also said doors would open at 6 p.m. to help fans avoid delays because of the additional measures. The International Business Times first reported the Anonymous announcement. …. . In a video released Wednesday, Anonymous said it has taken down more than 20,000 ISIS-related Twitter accounts. In an online statement cited by the Times, Anonymous said the threat against the WWE event hasn't been "100% confirmed." How that is done is discussed in the Yahoo article below. Anonymous has posted step by step instructions in how to attack ISIS on an online chat site.



https://www.yahoo.com/tech/s/anonymous-vs--islamic-state---opparis-heats-up-as-hackers-target-terrorists-163047706.html

Anonymous vs. Islamic State: #OpParis heats up as hackers target terrorists
Michael Walsh
Yahoo News
November 19, 2015

Photograph -- People wear Guy Fawkes masks during the third day of protests, joined by tens of thousands across the country, calling for early elections, in Bucharest, Romania, Thursday, Nov. 5, 2015. Romania's President


Can hackers undermine the world’s most vicious terrorist group?

Anonymous’ war against the so-called Islamic State is gaining momentum as the hacktivists enlist the public’s help in hunting down the terrorists in cyberspace — identifying and hacking nefarious websites and Twitter accounts.

The loosely affiliated international network claims to have eliminated thousands of Islamic State Twitter accounts — roughly 6,000 — since terrorist attacks killed 129 and wounded hundreds more in Paris on November 13.

The group posted three guides on an Internet Relay Chat channel on hacking, uncovering ISIS accounts and locating their websites, as International Business Times reported.

“Instead of sitting idle in the channel or lurking around and doing nothing, you can benefit greatly from the different tools and guides that have been provided to you,” one member said. “Your contribution means a lot, and we encourage you to partake in all of the Op’s activities if you can, the more the merrier.”

Over the weekend, a spokesman for Anonymous — cloaked in black and wearing the group’s signature Guy Fawkes mask — appeared in a video to declare war on the terrorist group, officially launching Operation Paris, or #OpParis.

Anonymous declares "war" on Islamic State

Anonymous will launch more cyberattacks on Islamic State, following the carnage in Paris last week that killed 129 people, the hackers collective says in a video posted online. Rough Cut (no reporter narration).

“These attacks cannot remain unpunished, so the members of Anonymous all over the world will hunt you down,” he said in French. “Yes, you vermin who are killing innocent people. We will hunt you down, as we did since the attacks on Charlie Hebdo. Therefore, be prepared for massive retaliation from Anonymous.”

The French people, he continued, are stronger than the terrorists and will come out of the atrocity stronger than before.

“We are Anonymous. We are legion. We don’t forgive and we don’t forget. Expect us,” the masked person said.

Afterward, ISIS terrorists reportedly used the encrypted messaging app Telegram to warn each other about Anonymous’ plans and share instructions on how to avoid being hacked; they also called the hackers “idiots.”

“The #Anonymous hackers threatened in new video release that they will carry out a major hack operation on the Islamic state (idiots),” the message reads in part.

In many ways, #OpParis is an extension of the organization’s #OpISIS campaign, which was launched in January after jihadists stormed the Paris offices of the satirical French magazine Charlie Hebdo.

Emerson Brooking, a consultant specializing in network conflict for the think tank New America , said #OpISIS is likely the most sustained Anonymous operation up until this point.

“There was a core group of volunteers who were just furious at what they saw as the Islamic State invading their space — using the Internet for evil,” Brooking said in an interview with Yahoo News. “Because of that, this core group managed to sustain this effort for many months. They maintained an energy that casual volunteers can latch on to.”

Members of Anonymous explained on their official #OpParis Twitter account that they are targeting the terrorist organization on social media because it is their primary method of recruitment. ISIS uses these platforms to amplify their propaganda.


Brooking explained that Anonymous also works to destroy specialized ISIS sites where the terrorists archive information and carry on private discussions. They do this through traditional “hacking stuff.”

Anonymous also, he continued, monitors and infiltrates ISIS operations virtually, sometimes releasing information about terrorist collaborators they have identified overseas.

“What they do is not equivalent to the best efforts of a state intelligence agency, but there’s a lot more of them. Sometimes they find out how to leverage that material effectively,” Brooking said.

Of course, Anonymous operates with greater impunity than state governments so they do not have to navigate some of the same hurdles.

“That wouldn’t make sense as a U.S. government function,” Brooking said. “It would bring questions about freedom of speech and formal government vs. the Internet.”




“Anonymous’ war against the so-called Islamic State is gaining momentum as the hacktivists enlist the public’s help in hunting down the terrorists in cyberspace — identifying and hacking nefarious websites and Twitter accounts. …. The group posted three guides on an Internet Relay Chat channel on hacking, uncovering ISIS accounts and locating their websites, as International Business Times reported. “Instead of sitting idle in the channel or lurking around and doing nothing, you can benefit greatly from the different tools and guides that have been provided to you,” one member said. “Your contribution means a lot, and we encourage you to partake in all of the Op’s activities if you can, the more the merrier.” …. “We are Anonymous. We are legion. We don’t forgive and we don’t forget. Expect us,” the masked person said. …. Afterward, ISIS terrorists reportedly used the encrypted messaging app Telegram to warn each other about Anonymous’ plans and share instructions on how to avoid being hacked; they also called the hackers “idiots.” …. Emerson Brooking, a consultant specializing in network conflict for the think tank New America , said #OpISIS is likely the most sustained Anonymous operation up until this point. “There was a core group of volunteers who were just furious at what they saw as the Islamic State invading their space — using the Internet for evil,” Brooking said in an interview with Yahoo News. “Because of that, this core group managed to sustain this effort for many months. They maintained an energy that casual volunteers can latch on to.” …. Brooking explained that Anonymous also works to destroy specialized ISIS sites where the terrorists archive information and carry on private discussions. They do this through traditional “hacking stuff.” Anonymous also, he continued, monitors and infiltrates ISIS operations virtually, sometimes releasing information about terrorist collaborators they have identified overseas. “What they do is not equivalent to the best efforts of a state intelligence agency, but there’s a lot more of them. Sometimes they find out how to leverage that material effectively,” Brooking said. …. “That wouldn’t make sense as a U.S. government function,” Brooking said. “It would bring questions about freedom of speech and formal government vs. the Internet.”


One form of cyber attack which was described in the last few years is for the general public to go to the targeted websites en masse and crash the sites. Anonymous has posted how-to instructions for the general public to use on a chat site. They have also recruited the public’s help in identifying the sites to be hit. Anonymous has also discovered and published the names and locations of ISIS collaborators on the Net. ISIS is countering their hacking efforts with an encrypted app called Telegram and have called Anonymous “idiots.”

“What they do is not equivalent to the best efforts of a state intelligence agency, but there’s a lot more of them. Sometimes they find out how to leverage that material effectively,” Brooking said. Of course our government does do some, and probably many, hacking operations, though presumably only against foreign bad boys such as North Korea. At least I hope so. It was a very embarrassing event when the US government was caught recording Angela Merkel’s conversations. No matter who Anonymous is and how they are doing it, this anti-ISIS operation is cyber warfare and it’s potentially as effective as soldiers in the field to disrupt operations. I am becoming a fan of theirs, though when I first heard of their covert behavior I didn’t trust them. They are sponsoring the right causes, in my view.





http://www.cbsnews.com/news/iran-gives-unspecified-prison-term-to-journalist-jason-rezaian/

Iran gives unspecified prison term to U.S. journalist
AP November 22, 2015

Photograph -- Washington Post reporter Jason Rezaian speaks in the newspaper's offices in Washington, D.C., in a November 6, 2013 file photo provided by The Washington Post. REUTERS
Play VIDEO -- Iran says Washington Post journalist convicted of spying


TEHRAN, Iran - Iran has sentenced detained Washington Post journalist Jason Rezaian to an unspecified prison term following his conviction last month on charges that include espionage, Iranian state TV reported Sunday.

Gholam Hossein Mohseni Ejehi, the spokesman for Iran's judiciary, announced the punishment in a statement on the TV station's website.

"In brief, it is a prison sentence," he said. The verdict is "not finalized," he added, referring to an expected appeal.

Rezaian's lawyer, Leila Ahsan, told The Associated Press she had not been informed of the verdict - let alone details of the sentence.

"I have no information about details of the verdict," she said. "We were expecting the verdict some three months ago."

Rezaian was detained with his wife, Yeganeh Salehi, and two photojournalists on July 22, 2014. All were later released except Rezaian, a dual U.S.-Iranian citizen.

Rezaian went on trial in four closed-door court hearings at Tehran's Revolutionary Court, which hears cases related to national security. Last month, he was convicted of spying and other charges.

The Post has vigorously denied the accusations against its correspondent.

"We're aware of the reports in the Iranian media, but have no further information at this time," Washington Post foreign editor Douglas Jehl said in a statement.

"Every day that Jason is in prison is an injustice. He has done nothing wrong. Even after keeping Jason in prison 488 days so far, Iran has produced no evidence of wrongdoing. His trial and sentence are a sham, and he should be released immediately."

Rezaian, who has covered Iran for the Post since 2012, grew up in Marin County, California and spent most of his life in the United States. The Post, U.S. officials and Rezaian's family have all called for his release. Iran does not recognize dual-nationality.

Iran's state media, citing the indictment, have said Rezaian collected information on Iranian and foreign individuals and companies circumventing sanctions and passed them on to the U.S. government. Iranian state TV has repeatedly called Rezaian an "American spy."

Earlier this month, the intelligence department of the powerful elite Revolutionary Guard claimed in a report to parliament that Rezaian is an agent seeking to "overthrow" Iran's Islamic ruling system.

His incarceration and trial played out as Iran and five world powers, including the U.S., negotiated a landmark agreement in which Tehran agreed to curb its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief.

Iranian media in August quoted officials discussing the possibility of swapping Americans detained in Iran for 19 Iranians held in the U.S. It's unclear, however, whether that's been seriously discussed between Iranian and U.S. officials.




“Iran has sentenced detained Washington Post journalist Jason Rezaian to an unspecified prison term following his conviction last month on charges that include espionage, Iranian state TV reported Sunday. Gholam Hossein Mohseni Ejehi, the spokesman for Iran's judiciary, announced the punishment in a statement on the TV station's website. "In brief, it is a prison sentence," he said. The verdict is "not finalized," he added, referring to an expected appeal. …. Rezaian was detained with his wife, Yeganeh Salehi, and two photojournalists on July 22, 2014. All were later released except Rezaian, a dual U.S.-Iranian citizen. Rezaian went on trial in four closed-door court hearings at Tehran's Revolutionary Court, which hears cases related to national security. Last month, he was convicted of spying and other charges. The Post has vigorously denied the accusations against its correspondent. …. Rezaian, who has covered Iran for the Post since 2012, grew up in Marin County, California and spent most of his life in the United States. The Post, U.S. officials and Rezaian's family have all called for his release. Iran does not recognize dual-nationality. …. His incarceration and trial played out as Iran and five world powers, including the U.S., negotiated a landmark agreement in which Tehran agreed to curb its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. Iranian media in August quoted officials discussing the possibility of swapping Americans detained in Iran for 19 Iranians held in the U.S. It's unclear, however, whether that's been seriously discussed between Iranian and U.S. officials.”



I remember an incident a number of years ago in which a young American couple were picked up across the border in Iran and detained for a long time. I don't know if they are among the 19 who are still being held there. I never believed that the case of those two was anything other than two young people so bound up in each other that they misjudged where they were walking.




http://www.cbsnews.com/news/a-slice-of-heaven-boston-cream-pie/

A slice of heaven: Boston Cream Pie
CBS NEWS
November 22, 2015

Photograph -- The kitchen of Boston's Omni Parker House Hotel is where the sumptuous dessert was created.


Susan Spencer of "48 Hours" travels to Boston for a treat on the menu:

Executive chef Gerard Tice at Boston's Omni Park House Hotel makes life in the kitchen look easy as pie -- specifically, Boston Cream Pie.

"So, essentially we're talking butter, chocolate, cream, sugar. What could possibly go wrong with that?" said Spencer.

"Nothing!" laughed Tice. "It's a wonderful dessert!"

Wonderful, yes ... and completely misnamed. It's not a pie at all.

"No, it's a cake," said Tice. The pie name came because it was originally baked in pie shells.

Two pie shells, actually, for two yellow sponge cakes, held together with thick pastry cream, covered in chocolate, and coated with almonds.

It was named the Official State Dessert of Massachusetts in 1996. "We beat out tollhouse cookies and Fig Newtons," said Tice.

And its appeal? "It's simple flavors, that just bring you back to your childhood," he said.

Boston Cream Pie has been made more or less the same way since it was invented over a century ago at this very hotel, whose kitchen, the chef notes, has had some famous -- and unlikely -- employees...

"Malcolm X was a busboy," he said. "Ho Chi Minh worked in the bake shop."

"So Ho Chi Minh conceivably could've baked a Boston Cream Pie?"

"Yes, he could." And Malcolm X presumably could've cleaned up after somebody that had just eaten one.

But the proof is in the pudding ... or, in this case, the pie.

"That is good," said Spencer. "I have to keep eating it just to make sure it's still good."

Which explains why their kitchen turns out some 300 Boston Cream Pies a day -- both miniature-sized, and enough for a crowd.

"I'd say about 80% of the people that order dessert are the Boston Cream Pie," said Tice.

But as the chef (and the entire state of Massachusetts) will tell you, it's worth every calorie-laden penny.

Spencer asked, "What comes to mind immediately when I say Boston Cream Pie?"

"Creamy, silky, smooth, chocolatey. Heaven!"

Not to overstate it.

Recipe: Parker House's Boston Cream Pie
Recipe: Boston Cream Pie Martini
Recipe index: "Sunday Morning"'s 2015 "Food Issue" - Delicious menu suggestions from top chefs and the editors of Bon Appetit magazine

For more info:

Parker's Restaurant at the Omni Parker House, Boston, Mass.




“It was named the Official State Dessert of Massachusetts in 1996. "We beat out tollhouse cookies and Fig Newtons," said Tice. …. Boston Cream Pie has been made more or less the same way since it was invented over a century ago at this very hotel, whose kitchen, the chef notes, has had some famous -- and unlikely -- employees... "Malcolm X was a busboy," he said. "Ho Chi Minh worked in the bake shop." "So Ho Chi Minh conceivably could've baked a Boston Cream Pie?" "Yes, he could." And Malcolm X presumably could've cleaned up after somebody that had just eaten one. …. Spencer asked, "What comes to mind immediately when I say Boston Cream Pie?" "Creamy, silky, smooth, chocolatey. Heaven!" Not to overstate it.” .... Recipe: Parker House's Boston Cream Pie,
Recipe: Boston Cream Pie Martini, Recipe index: "Sunday Morning"'s 2015 "Food Issue" - Delicious menu suggestions from top chefs and the editors of Bon Appetit magazine"


Boston Cream Pie is one of the best desserts I’ve ever tasted, and I’m wanting one now. It has literally been some 20 years since I had one. And Ho Chi Minh may have made them? What a center of Boston life that hotel must be. Even more interesting is this glimpse into the early lives of two such politically important people. It makes quite an unusual news article. (Boston Cream Pie Martini???)




http://www.cbsnews.com/news/louisiana-picks-democrat-john-bel-edwards-as-next-governor/

Louisiana picks Democrat John Bel Edwards as next governor
CBS/AP
November 21, 2015

Photograph -- Louisiana Democratic gubernatorial candidate Rep. John Bel Edwards greets supporters as he watches election returns in a hotel suite at his election night watch party in New Orleans, Saturday, Nov. 21, 2015. AP


BATON ROUGE, La. -- Democrat John Bel Edwards won the runoff election for Louisiana governor Saturday, defeating the once-heavy favorite, Republican David Vitter, and handing the Democrats their first statewide victory since 2008.

Edwards, a state lawmaker, will take over the office from term-limited Republican Gov. Bobby Jindal in January.

Voters' rejection of Vitter was a stunning turn of events for the U.S. senator, who has been a political powerhouse in the state for years and started his campaign nearly two years ago as the race's front-runner.

After his loss, Vitter immediately announced that he wouldn't seek re-election to the U.S. Senate next year, creating a new competition for what had been a safe GOP seat.

Edwards painted the race as a referendum on Vitter's character and integrity and suggested the U.S. senator didn't measure up in such a competition. Edwards focused on his West Point degree and military resume, and he pledged a bipartisan leadership style.

"The people have chosen hope over scorn, over negativity and over distrust of others," Edwards said in his victory speech, before leading a second-line parade with a jazz band through the French Quarter hotel ballroom.

In the final days, Vitter sought to rally Republican voters by drawing policy distinctions with Edwards and making Syrian refugee resettlement an issue in the state campaign. But it apparently didn't work.

The rebuke from Louisiana voters will create an open Senate seat for the 2016 election.

"I had decided when I decided to make this race with (wife) Wendy that I wanted to pursue new challenges outside the Senate no matter what. I had reached my personal term limit," Vitter said, announcing he wouldn't seek re-election to Congress.

Several Republicans already have said they're interested in running for the position, including U.S. Reps. Charles Boustany and John Fleming, among others.

Democrats were ecstatic as Edwards defied expectations that only a Republican could win statewide in Louisiana. He thanked supporters who "believed we could confound the conventional wisdom that this victory just couldn't happen."

"It did happen," he said.

"Everything that Edwards did seemed to work. The guy came out of nowhere, a little town called Amite," CBS affiliate WWL political analyst Clancy DuBos said. "He's a state representative, his district is less than one percent, and yet he took on the guy that's probably the dominant political figure in the state of Louisiana and beat him."

Edwards is taking over a state awash in financial problems.

Neither Edwards nor Vitter offered detailed roadmaps for tackling the budget woes, and the general outlines they touted were largely similar in approach.

Rather than a race about the state's deep financial troubles, the contest for governor largely became a referendum on Vitter, who has been in elected office, first as a state lawmaker and then in Congress, for more than 20 years.

Vitter began the election cycle nearly two years ago as the clear favorite, expected to have an easy waltz into the governor's office. He stockpiled cash for the campaign, dwarfing all competitors with his fundraising acumen. And with a campaign operation that has helped him and his allies to steamroll opponents over the years, he appeared nearly unbeatable.

But Vitter was hit with repeated attacks for a 2007 prostitution scandal in which he apologized for a "serious sin" after he was linked through phone records to Washington's "D.C. Madam."

He had trouble uniting Republicans after a blistering primary competition in which Vitter trashed two GOP rivals and received heavy criticism for his scorched-earth political style. And his campaign was accused of ethical improprieties after allegations it secretly recorded political opponents. Vitter's negatives with voters shot up in the polls.

The U.S. senator also was hampered by high disapproval ratings for his fellow Republican, Jindal, who is blamed for the state's financial problems.

Edwards started his campaign as a little-known lawmaker from rural Tangipahoa Parish, about 75 miles north of New Orleans. He benefited from a primary in which he largely escaped attacks while the Republicans slammed each other. He capitalized on voters' apparent unease with Vitter and built a campaign on personal integrity.

With his anti-abortion and pro-gun stances and tenure as an Army Ranger, Edwards downplayed his Democratic roots, positioned himself as a moderate and said he'd govern in a way that unites the state, claiming Vitter would bring his divisive, Washington-style politics to Louisiana.

In speeches, he pledged: "I will be honest with you. I will never embarrass you."

Vitter said Edwards was misrepresenting a record filled with votes supporting teacher unions and trial lawyers and opposing business interests and education reform efforts.

"His campaign is built on a myth that he is some sort of a conservative, that we don't differ on the issues, when we definitely do," Vitter said.

The candidates did little to mask their distaste for each other in the two televised runoff debates, both of which escalated into near shouting matches at various points.

Each runoff contender sought to tie his opponent to an unpopular figure in Louisiana: Edwards claimed Vitter would represent a "Jindal third term," while Vitter tagged Edwards as an "Obama liberal."

Edwards also continued to strike at Vitter for the prostitution scandal, most notably when he ran a TV ad that said Vitter missed a vote to honor soldiers because of a phone call from the prostitution service, choosing "prostitutes over patriots."

Vitter eventually answered the scandal more directly, with a TV spot in which he said he "failed my family" and with an ad featuring Willie Robertson from reality TV show "Duck Dynasty" saying, "I know he's made some mistakes, but who hasn't?"

Even supporters wondered if the effort might have been too late.

At least $30 million was spent in the race, from candidates and outside groups who have played a larger role in this year's competition than in prior state elections. When the final campaign finance reports are filed, the contest is expected to be the most expensive governor's race in Louisiana history.




“Edwards, a state lawmaker, will take over the office from term-limited Republican Gov. Bobby Jindal in January. Voters' rejection of Vitter was a stunning turn of events for the U.S. senator, who has been a political powerhouse in the state for years and started his campaign nearly two years ago as the race's front-runner. After his loss, Vitter immediately announced that he wouldn't seek re-election to the U.S. Senate next year, creating a new competition for what had been a safe GOP seat. …. Edwards, a state lawmaker, will take over the office from term-limited Republican Gov. Bobby Jindal in January. Voters' rejection of Vitter was a stunning turn of events for the U.S. senator, who has been a political powerhouse in the state for years and started his campaign nearly two years ago as the race's front-runner. After his loss, Vitter immediately announced that he wouldn't seek re-election to the U.S. Senate next year, creating a new competition for what had been a safe GOP seat. …. With his anti-abortion and pro-gun stances and tenure as an Army Ranger, Edwards downplayed his Democratic roots, positioned himself as a moderate and said he'd govern in a way that unites the state, claiming Vitter would bring his divisive, Washington-style politics to Louisiana. In speeches, he pledged: "I will be honest with you. I will never embarrass you." Vitter said Edwards was misrepresenting a record filled with votes supporting teacher unions and trial lawyers and opposing business interests and education reform efforts.”


It looks as though Edwards is playing to the typical Republican anti-abortion and pro-gun crowd, so is he a New Dixiecrat? I do hope not. I hope this is a genuine win for a genuine Democrat, but it may not be. His “moderate” stance on those two issues might be just another cynical way of winning an election, which will get the Dems a slight rise in our national statistics, but not an improvement on the true political situation in the South.

Still, Vitter accuses him of “supporting teacher unions and trial lawyers and opposing business interests and education reform efforts,” so he must be doing something right. It’s interesting that Vitter included the phrase “education reform efforts.” He probably means by that the nationwide Republican goal of forcing the public education system out of existence, or at any rate controlling what is taught in the schools so that they will not contradict the religious teachings of the Baptist Church.





http://www.cbsnews.com/news/u-s-veterans-return-to-iraq-to-fight-isis/

U.S. vets return to Iraq to fight ISIS
By CHARLIE D'AGATA CBS NEWS
November 19, 2015

Play VIDEO -- Foreigner fighting ISIS says "everyone has a stake"
Photograph -- EN DAGATA 111915, Chris Kidd in 2004 CHRIS KIDD


KIRKUK, Iraq -- Some American veterans of Iraq can't bear watching the country they fought to secure lost to the forces of ISIS. Incredibly, some are returning to Iraq as volunteer soldiers.

For these former U.S. soldiers it's a return to a deadly war zone, but this time they're fighting alongside the Kurdish Peshmerga forces.

They're volunteers in the battle against ISIS, also known as Daesh, who have dug in around the oil-rich region of Kirkuk.

Ohio native Chris Kidd was a Marine sergeant in 2004, and fought in some of the fiercest battles of the Iraq war.

"To watch ISIS try and take over all of Iraq, it felt like it was destroying everything that we worked so hard to get. We didn't fight and die for nothing."

So Kidd sold his house and quit his job to join the new war against ISIS.

He's teamed up with about ten U.S. veterans, including a former Army Lieutenant from Arkansas. He wears a body camera on each raid. CBS News agreed not to use his name to protect his family.

"They thought I was crazy at first for coming out here, but they're supportive now."

The Peshmerga are often outgunned, and ISIS has proven to be resilient. The U.S. vets go house by house, but on that day the enemy had vanished.

Back on base, Kidd repaired the U.S. army vehicles they've recaptured from the extremist group.

But the biggest difference has been the increased U.S. airstrikes. "After their support when we push into towns? Daesh run. They run."

With the fighting growing more intense, these U.S. vets are counting on that support from their former brothers in arms.




“Some American veterans of Iraq can't bear watching the country they fought to secure lost to the forces of ISIS. Incredibly, some are returning to Iraq as volunteer soldiers. For these former U.S. soldiers it's a return to a deadly war zone, but this time they're fighting alongside the Kurdish Peshmerga forces. …. "To watch ISIS try and take over all of Iraq, it felt like it was destroying everything that we worked so hard to get. We didn't fight and die for nothing." So Kidd sold his house and quit his job to join the new war against ISIS. …. The Peshmerga are often outgunned, and ISIS has proven to be resilient. The U.S. vets go house by house, but on that day the enemy had vanished. Back on base, Kidd repaired the U.S. army vehicles they've recaptured from the extremist group. But the biggest difference has been the increased U.S. airstrikes. "After their support when we push into towns? Daesh run. They run."


It’s good to hear from one of our soldiers that the US air attacks are doing a great deal of good in defeating ISIS. It would do even more good if we would give the Peshmerga tanks and guns and US Army soldiers. I suppose our tactics are meant to keep us out of harm’s way, but in the end if ISIS wins that goal won’t be the situation. It’s a pity that no non-Muslim force is fighting ISIS with their soldiers, only air attacks and none of them are supporting the Kurds. That’s a shame. It looks as though only the Kurds are facing up to the reality of the situation.





http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/paris-terror-attacks/brother-paris-suspect-salah-abdeslam-urges-him-turn-himself-n467786

Brother of Paris Suspect Salah Abdeslam Urges Him to Turn Himself In
by CASSANDRA VINOGRAD
NOV 22 2015


The brother of Salah Abdeslam — a suspected accomplice to the deadly Paris attacks, who has been on the run for a week — on Sunday urged him to turn himself in and face jail rather than a grave.

Abdeslam, a 26-year-old French national, is the subject of a massive international manhunt. Authorities have described him as "dangerous" and potentially linked to last week's terror spree in the French capital.

Another one of his brothers, Brahim, blew himself up in the attacks.

Salah Abdeslam, 26, appears in a photo released by Belgian police on Nov. 17, 2015. Federal Police of Belgium via AFP - Getty Images

The third brother, Mohamed — who himself was briefly detained and questioned in Belgium, then released — told local television that his siblings "do not represent" the family.

He told Belgian broadcaster RTBF that he had noticed a "slight change" in his brothers' behavior — when they started praying more and gave up drinking — but said that they did not appear to have been "radicalized."

Rather, Mohamed Abdeslam said he thought his brothers had been "manipulated" and that if Salah was implicated at all he was convinced his brother had decided to "turn back."

"We would like Salah to hand himself in ... so that he can give us the answers that we are waiting for," Mohamed Abdeslam told RTBF.

"We would rather see Salah in prison than in a cemetery."




“The third brother, Mohamed — who himself was briefly detained and questioned in Belgium, then released — told local television that his siblings "do not represent" the family. He told Belgian broadcaster RTBF that he had noticed a "slight change" in his brothers' behavior — when they started praying more and gave up drinking — but said that they did not appear to have been "radicalized."


An article from two or three years ago said that radical jihadism, specifically membership in al-Qaeda, is often found in certain families and tribes. In this case two brothers were convinced to fight with ISIS. The family members who are opposed to ISIS’s methods should be more vocal and discuss the issue more openly. Perhaps others would go along with them if they took the lead in that path. This brother Mohamed said that his siblings had been “manipulated.” That probably means an Imam or one of the Internet ISIS websites. If it’s an Imam, he should be exposed and driven out into the open where he could then be arrested. Young people often go through a highly idealistic period and embrace a “cause” of some sort, which is not necessarily a religion.

Something like that was happening in the US during the 1970’s when the liberal political and religious leaders began to have a young following and go on a “radicalized” path. The difference is, I believe in the Civil Rights Movement and the Women’s Movement, and I am strongly opposed to radical Islam’s dehumanizing trend. Also, a very great difference, in the 1970’s the liberal movement was not violent. Hippies could rightfully be called amoral and drug users, but not vicious. The people who beat up hundreds of black marchers in Selma, AL were instead white conservatives who were behaving as radicals. Radicalism occurs on both ends of the spectrum and is always dangerous and harmful.





http://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/sen-chuck-schumer-close-loophole-lets-suspected-terrorists-buy-guns-n467841

Sen. Chuck Schumer: Close Loophole That Lets Suspected Terrorists Buy Guns
by DANIELLA SILVA
NOV 22 2015

Photograph -- Image: Charles Schumer
Related: NYPD Commissioner to Congress: 'Start Getting Serious' on Guns


Full Interview: NYPD Commissioner and Homeland Security Secretary on 'Meet the Press' 8:06

Sen. Chuck Schumer urged Congress Sunday to pass legislation that would close a "major loophole" in federal gun law allowing suspected terrorists on the no-fly list to legally purchase firearms in the wake of the deadly Paris attacks.

"Under current law, suspected or known terrorists who are on a no-fly list can legally purchase firearms in this country," Schumer, D-N.Y., said at a press conference early Sunday. "They can walk into a gun show, no questions asked, and buy a gun or buy explosives."

Speaking several hours after the New York City Police Department and other city officials conducted an active shooter drill in a subway station in the borough of Manhattan, Schumer stressed the need to prevent active shooter incidents from happening — not just stop them after they occur.

"First and foremost, our goal has to be to avoid any terrorists — lone wolves or otherwise —from getting a weapon, rather than making sure we shoot them after they've gotten their hands on one," he said.

The bipartisan federal legislation, known as the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act, is being led by Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-CA, in the Senate and Rep. Peter King, R-NY, in the House of Representatives, Schumer said.

The senator blasted the National Rifle Association for continuing to oppose the bill, saying the organization "has fought tooth and nail" over the past several years to prevent it from passing.

The act was initially proposed in 2007 by the administration of George W. Bush.

"Because of the NRA it hasn't happened, but because of Paris we're hoping there will be new impetus to do this and do it now," Schumer said, adding that he was hoping to bring the legislation to the floor next week.

"Slamming this appalling loophole ought to be a no brainer," he said.

House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi echoed the sentiment in remarks on Thursday, voicing her opposition to the House Syrian refugee bill and calling for Congress to act on the firearm's bill instead.

"We should be voting on Republican Congressman Peter King's bill to close the loophole that a person who is on the terrorism watch list could walk into a gun store and buy a gun," she said Thursday morning on the House floor.

Pelosi said it was "outrageous that we would slam the door on women and children but allow terrorists to buy guns."




“Sen. Chuck Schumer urged Congress Sunday to pass legislation that would close a "major loophole" in federal gun law allowing suspected terrorists on the no-fly list to legally purchase firearms in the wake of the deadly Paris attacks. "Under current law, suspected or known terrorists who are on a no-fly list can legally purchase firearms in this country," Schumer, D-N.Y., said at a press conference early Sunday. "They can walk into a gun show, no questions asked, and buy a gun or buy explosives." …. "First and foremost, our goal has to be to avoid any terrorists — lone wolves or otherwise —from getting a weapon, rather than making sure we shoot them after they've gotten their hands on one," he said. The bipartisan federal legislation, known as the Denying Firearms and Explosives to Dangerous Terrorists Act, is being led by Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-CA, in the Senate and Rep. Peter King, R-NY, in the House of Representatives, Schumer said. The senator blasted the National Rifle Association for continuing to oppose the bill, saying the organization "has fought tooth and nail" over the past several years to prevent it from passing. …. House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi echoed the sentiment in remarks on Thursday, voicing her opposition to the House Syrian refugee bill and calling for Congress to act on the firearm's bill instead. "We should be voting on Republican Congressman Peter King's bill to close the loophole that a person who is on the terrorism watch list could walk into a gun store and buy a gun," she said Thursday morning on the House floor.”


The NRA is another of those groups who build up a great drumbeat for patriotism and the right to form militias. Militias as they exist today are nothing more than radical rightist groups who have a deep fascination for guns. They serve no useful purpose. Of course, the NRA’s real goal is to make ever more money and sell more guns. They and the oil industry own the Republican Party and some among the Democratic Party also. I wouldn’t advocate the overthrow of the US government by any means, but I do feel strongly that it would operate more ethically and with less economic pollution if lobbyists like the oil and gun groups were no longer allowed to influence legislatures, either state or federal.





http://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/new-orleans-medical-student-shot-while-trying-stop-attack-woman-n467626

New Orleans Medical Student Shot While Trying to Stop Attack on Woman
by ELISHA FIELDSTADT
NEWS NOV 21 2015, 6:26 PM ET

Photograph -- Tulane University Medical Student Peter Gold Family of Peter Gold


New Orleans police are searching for a man who was caught on video shooting a medical student who was trying to stop the suspect from allegedly attacking a woman.

Surveillance video released by the New Orleans Police Department shows a hooded man dragging a staggering woman around 4:30 a.m. Friday. Moments later, a car stops and another man, identified as Peter Gold, 25, gets out while appearing to make a call on his cellphone.

"The victim drove up and attempted to assist the woman at which point the suspect pointed a gun at him and demanded money," New Orleans Police said in a statement.

"The victim explained to the suspect repeatedly that he did not have any cash. The suspect became enraged and shot the victim once in the stomach," the statement said.

In the video, the hooded man appears to try three more times to shoot Gold, but "the gun jammed," according to police.

Police said the suspect then took the woman's purse. "The unknown woman was not injured during the incident," police said.

Gold, a fourth-year medical student at Tulane University in New Orleans, was taken to the hospital in critical condition Friday. New Orleans Commander Ronnie Stevens said shortly after Gold was hospitalized that he was "doing better."

Tulane University is offering a $10,000 reward for information that leads to the suspect's arrest, according to a university statement. "I am shocked and saddened by this horrific event," university president Michael A. Fitts said in a statement.

"I ask that you keep Peter and his family in your thoughts and prayers. He is an outstanding student who represents the best of Tulane in every possible way," Fitts said.


Police are also offering up to $2,500 in reward money for a tip that leads to the arrest of the suspect, who they say should be considered armed and dangerous.

Gold's family said in a statement that they are focusing on the student's recovery but "we deeply appreciate everyone's concern, support and prayers as our family faces this crisis."

A classmate and friend of Gold's was not surprised the medical student saw something amiss and intervened.

"I'm not at all surprised by his bravery, but I'm no less impressed and inspired by it. He's a remarkable individual I'm privileged and proud to know," Ryan O'Halloran said. "I try to remember, whenever we see scary things, always look for the helpers."




“Surveillance video released by the New Orleans Police Department shows a hooded man dragging a staggering woman around 4:30 a.m. Friday. Moments later, a car stops and another man, identified as Peter Gold, 25, gets out while appearing to make a call on his cellphone. "The victim drove up and attempted to assist the woman at which point the suspect pointed a gun at him and demanded money," New Orleans Police said in a statement. "The victim explained to the suspect repeatedly that he did not have any cash. The suspect became enraged and shot the victim once in the stomach," the statement said.” …. Tulane University is offering a $10,000 reward for information that leads to the suspect's arrest, according to a university statement. "I am shocked and saddened by this horrific event," university president Michael A. Fitts said in a statement. "I ask that you keep Peter and his family in your thoughts and prayers. He is an outstanding student who represents the best of Tulane in every possible way," Fitts said.”


I am glad to see another ordinary citizen stepping up to help in a situation which proved to be very dangerous to himself. We need more “everyday heroes.” I hope this young man will recover soon from the shooting and go back to his classes. I always admire courage. The article didn’t say how the woman escaped, but just that she was “unknown” and was unhurt.




http://www.nbcnews.com/storyline/isis-terror/former-defense-secretary-leon-panetta-isis-fight-u-s-has-n467801

MEET THE PRESS ISIS TERROR NOV 22 2015, 11:09 AM ET
Former Defense Secretary Leon Panetta on ISIS Fight: 'The U.S. Has to Lead'
by SHAWNA THOMAS


Former Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta thinks the United States has not provided strong enough leadership in the battle to defeat ISIS. "I think the U.S. has to lead in this effort because what we've learned a long time ago is that if the United States does not lead, nobody else will," Panetta told Chuck Todd on NBC's "Meet the Press."

According to Panetta, many parties — Syrian President Bashar al Assad, - Iran, Hezbollah, former Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki — deserve some of the blame for the rise of ISIS, so does the United States "by virtue of not getting involved sooner."

Specifically, Panetta said that "airstrikes alone are not going to win here" and the United States and coalition partners need to take territory away from the terrorist group.

However the question of who that coalition is and what parties are responsible for has to be solved too. The former defense secretary said the efforts overseas aren't coordinated:

We need to set a Joint Command Center where all of these countries are together on their objectives. And secondly, we need to increase our effort there, we need to increase the tempo of our air strikes, we need to organize ground forces, particularly, the Sunnis and the Kurds and arm them so that they can take territory back from ISIS. And frankly, we need to increase Special Forces and our intelligence advisors, not only to guide these forces, but to go with them in order to ensure that we are successful in this effort.

Panetta does believe President Barack Obama has correctly articulated what the mission is, namely to "disrupt, defeat and dismantle ISIS."

However, he also said, "I think that the resources applied to that mission, frankly, have not been sufficient to confront that."

The former administration official repeated his call for NATO to get more involved in creating the coalition needed to fight ISIS.

"My focus would be to have NATO countries. I'm a little surprised they haven't invoked Article 5," said Panetta, also an ex-CIA director.

Article Five" of the North Atlantic Treaty states "that an armed attack against one or more of them in Europe or North America shall be considered an attack against them all."

The first time this article was invoked was after the September 11, 2001, attacks.




"I think the U.S. has to lead in this effort because what we've learned a long time ago is that if the United States does not lead, nobody else will," Panetta told Chuck Todd on NBC's "Meet the Press." According to Panetta, many parties — Syrian President Bashar al Assad, - Iran, Hezbollah, former Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki — deserve some of the blame for the rise of ISIS, so does the United States "by virtue of not getting involved sooner." …. However the question of who that coalition is and what parties are responsible for has to be solved too. The former defense secretary said the efforts overseas aren't coordinated: We need to set a Joint Command Center where all of these countries are together on their objectives. And secondly, we need to increase our effort there, we need to increase the tempo of our air strikes, we need to organize ground forces, particularly, the Sunnis and the Kurds and arm them so that they can take territory back from ISIS. …. However, he also said, "I think that the resources applied to that mission, frankly, have not been sufficient to confront that." The former administration official repeated his call for NATO to get more involved in creating the coalition needed to fight ISIS. "My focus would be to have NATO countries. I'm a little surprised they haven't invoked Article 5," said Panetta, also an ex-CIA director. …. The first time this article was invoked was after the September 11, 2001, attacks.”


I couldn’t agree with Panetta more, on all counts. Maybe he should run for President. He’s a good solid Democrat and has had lots of governmental experience. He’s on the side of the causes I espouse. See the Wikipedia article below. I have to ask why nobody has ever asked him to run?



Leon Panetta
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Leon Edward Panetta (born June 28, 1938) is an American statesman, lawyer, and professor. He served in the Obama administration as Director of the Central Intelligence Agency from 2009 to 2011, and as Secretary of Defense from 2011 to 2013. A Democrat, Panetta was a member of the United States House of Representatives from 1977 to 1993, served as Director of the Office of Management and Budget from 1993 to 1994, and as President Bill Clinton's Chief of Staff from 1994 to 1997. He is the founder of the Panetta Institute for Public Policy, served as Distinguished Scholar to Chancellor Charles B. Reed of the California State University System, and as a professor of public policy at Santa Clara University.

In January 2009, President-elect Obama nominated Panetta for the post of CIA Director.[1][2] Panetta was confirmed by the full Senate in February 2009. As director of the CIA, Panetta oversaw the U.S. military operation that led to Osama bin Laden's death.

On April 28, 2011, Obama announced the nomination of Panetta as Defense Secretary, when Robert Gates retired. In June the Senate confirmed Panetta unanimously as Secretary of Defense. He assumed the office on July 1, 2011.[3] David Petraeus took over as Director of the Central Intelligence Agency on September 6, 2011.[4]

Political career[edit]

Early political career[edit]
Panetta started in politics in 1966 as a legislative assistant to Republican Senator Thomas Kuchel, the United States Senate Minority Whip from California, whom Panetta has called "a tremendous role model".[9]

In 1969 he became the assistant to Robert H. Finch, Secretary of the United States Department of Health, Education, and Welfare under the Nixon administration. Soon thereafter he was appointed Director of the Office for Civil Rights.[10]

Panetta chose to enforce civil rights and equal education laws over the objection of President Nixon, who wanted enforcement to move slowly.[11] Robert Finch and Assistant Secretary John Veneman supported Panetta and refused to fire Panetta, threatening to resign if forced to do so.[12] Eventually forced out of office in 1970, Panetta resigned and left Washington to work as Executive Assistant for John Lindsay, the then-Republican Mayor of New York City (Lindsay would switch parties the following year.) He wrote about this experience in his 1971 book Bring Us Together.

He moved back to Monterey to practice law at Panetta, Thompson & Panetta from 1971 through to 1976.[13]

U.S. House of Representatives[edit]

Elections[edit]

Like Lindsay, Panetta switched to the Democratic Party in 1971, because he thought that the Republican Party was moving away from the political center.[14] In 1976, Panetta was elected to the U.S. Congress to represent California's 16th congressional district, unseating incumbent Republican Burt Talcott with 53% of the vote (the 17th district after the 1990 census), and was reelected for nine terms.[15][16][17]

Tenure[edit]

During his time in Congress, Panetta's work concentrated mostly on budget issues, civil rights, education, healthcare, agriculture, immigration, and environmental issues, particularly preventing oil drilling off the California coast. He wrote the Hunger Prevention Act (Public Law 100-435) of 1988, and the Fair Employment Practices Resolution. He was the author of legislation establishing the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary,[18] and legislation providing Medicare coverage for hospice service.

Activities outside politics[edit]

Panetta giving his farewell speech to Europe at King's College London in January 2013.[50]
Panetta and his wife founded the Leon & Sylvia Panetta Institute for Public Policy in December 1998, where they serve as the Institute's directors. The Institute is located at California State University, Monterey Bay. Panetta was instrumental in creating CSU Monterey Bay by converting Fort Ord, where he was chief of operations and planning of the intelligence section when he was in the army, into the university. Leon & Sylvia Panetta both served on the board of the UC Santa Cruz Foundation, as Distinguished Scholar to the Chancellor of California State University[51] and as Presidential Professor at Santa Clara University. He was urged to consider running for Governor of California during the recall election in 2003, but declined in part because of the short time available to raise money.[52]

Panetta has long been an advocate for the health of the world's oceans. As a member of Congress from California’s 16th District, he wrote numerous successful acts of Congress to protect the California coast, including legislation creating the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary.[51][53][54] In 2003, Panetta was named chairman and commissioner of the Pew Oceans Commission, which in 2005 combined with the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy to establish the Joint Ocean Commission Initiative. Panetta now co-chairs the Joint Ocean Commission Initiative with Admiral James D. Watkins, U.S. Navy (Ret.).[55] Panetta continues to pursue his commitment to ocean and marine life issues, serving as a resource for legislators and the media, advocating for ocean reform on behalf of the Joint Ocean Commission Initiative as well as other ocean organizations, including the National Marine Sanctuary Foundation[56] and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.[57]

In 2006 he was part of the Iraq Study Group, also known as the Baker Commission.[58][59]

In 2009 Panetta delivered the commencement speech to the graduating class at The University of Maryland at College Park, emphasizing the importance of public service and leadership.[60][61] In 2014, Panetta published his memoir Worthy Fights.[62]