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World News
Group: Syria militia 'slaughtered' 3 families
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 07:40:51 GMT

Bombardment of the Syrian city of Homs by government forces killed at least 47 civilians in the first eight hours of Wednesday, activists in the city and opposition sources said.
Report: Iran says it could hit US forces anywhere
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 13:18:45 GMT

Iran is capable of hitting U.S. military forces anywhere in the world if attacked by the United States, the Iranian ambassador to Moscow reportedly said Wednesday.
Europe's big freeze: Danube shipping paralyzed
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 16:39:50 GMT

Bulgaria and Romania are suspending all shipping on the Danube River due to the vast amount of ice blocking the waterway amid Europe's widespread big freeze.Bulgaria and Romania are suspending all shipping on the Danube River due to the vast amount of ice blocking the waterway amid Europe's widespread big freeze.
Greece's economic crisis is making people ill (literally)
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 14:12:37 GMT

Greece's economic crisis is taking its toll on people - hospital admissions are up 25%, suicides are up 40% and violent crimes, including murder, are up almost 100%. NBC's Keith Miller reports from Athens. Greece's economic crisis is taking its toll on people - hospital admissions are up 25%, suicides are up 40% and violent crimes, including murder, are up almost 100%. NBC's Keith Miller reports from Athens.
Protests in paradise as riots follow coup in Maldives
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 17:09:52 GMT

Supporters of the Maldives' former president rioted Wednesday as the country's new leader appealed for an end to the political turmoil in this Indian Ocean nation.Supporters of the Maldives' former president rioted Wednesday as the country's new leader appealed for an end to the political turmoil in this Indian Ocean nation.
Argentina to protest 'militarization' of S. Atlantic
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 00:50:03 GMT

Argentina’s government plans to lodge a complaint with the United Nations over “militarization” of the South Atlantic, Argentine President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner says.
Russian scientists reach lake under Antarctica
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 17:10:57 GMT

Russian researchers at the Vostok station in Antarctica pose for a picture after reaching subglacial lake Vostok. Scientists hold the sign reading "05.02.12, Vostok station, boreshaft 5gr, lake at depth 3769.3 metres."After more than two decades of drilling in Antarctica, Russian scientists have reached the surface of a gigantic freshwater lake hidden under miles of ice for some 20 million years — a lake that may hold life from the distant past and clues to the search for life on other planets.
Top China cop seeks asylum in US consulate?
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 08:41:59 GMT

Wang Lijun reads documents as he attends a session of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) last month.A prominent Chinese official who might have been the country's highest-profile policeman has dropped from sight amid unconfirmed reports of a scandal and a bid for U.S. asylum.
Cracks inside wings? Checks ordered on every A380
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 10:53:36 GMT

BERLIN -- Europe's aviation watchdog called for checks Wednesday on the entire worldwide fleet of Airbus A380 superjumbo jets for cracks on parts inside the wings.
State Department: We'll 'right-size' embassy in Iraq
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 01:08:19 GMT

Contrary to a media report the U.S. will not halve its diplomatic presence in Iraq, State Department officials say.
Strike over Greece austerity measures turns violent
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 22:04:51 GMT

  ATHENS -- A German flag was burned on the streets of the capital city on Tuesday as Greeks protest austerity measures meant to reduce the country's massive debt load.
Taliban lite? Afghans ponder power-sharing
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 20:48:44 GMT

NBC News speaks with Afghans around the country about the possibility of the Taliban's return to power. NBC News speaks with Afghans around the country about the possibility of the Taliban's return to power.
Fatal shark attacks in 2011 at 20-year high
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 23:37:42 GMT

Fatal shark attacks across the globe reached a 20-year high in 2011, researchers report, while attacks in the U.S. were the lowest over the last decade and none were fatal.
Prosecutors: Russian military officer stole airstrip
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 01:19:33 GMT

A defense official in central Russia sold off the concrete making up a military airstrip for a $33,000 bribe, rending the airfield useless, a Russian news agency reports.
Deadly floods follow in iced-over Europe
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 15:32:53 GMT

Flooding from a burst dam in Bisser, Bulgaria, destroyed much of the town and killed at least eight people.Much of Europe is still covered in snow and ice, but some areas are already seeing deadly flooding amid concerns that it will get worse before it gets better.
Why do Dickens characters still resonate?
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 18:00:28 GMT

As the world tips its collective hat to celebrate Charles Dickens 200th birthday – it makes one wonder: Why do characters like Miss Havisham and Scrooge still resonate today?
Court extends house arrest for Concordia captain
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 14:44:36 GMT

An Italian court ruled Tuesday that Francesco Schettino, the captain of the cruise liner that ran aground and capsized off the island of Giglio, killing at least 17 people, must remain under house arrest.
Criminals go on killing spree as Brazil cops strike
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 19:15:07 GMT

Brazilian soldiers patrol the streets of Salvador, Bahia, as part of security operations following a strike by state military police members on Tuesday.A toll of 115 murders and widespread looting, assaults and vandalism in the past week are roiling Brazil's third-biggest city, casting doubts over upcoming carnival celebrations.
Millions pushed into child labor in Pakistan
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 18:13:19 GMT

Mohammad, 7, makes clay pots at a workshop in Quetta Oct. 16, 2011.Up to 10 million children are estimated to be working in Pakistan, according to UNICEF, as rising prices and a struggling economy force poor families to send them out to work.
Report: Mexico cartel agree to ceasefire during pope visit
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 17:23:42 GMT

A Mexican drug cartel in the central mountainous state of Guanajuato has agreed to a 'Papal ceasefire' during an upcoming visit by Benedict XVI, a local newspaper reported on Tuesday.
PhotoBlog: Fishermen reel in shark the size of a school bus
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 15:15:03 GMT

Pakistanis reel in one of the biggest fish in the sea: a whale shark.Pakistanis reel in one of the biggest fish in the sea: a whale shark.
Suspected Jewish extremists deface monastery
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 13:52:21 GMT

JERUSALEM -- A Jerusalem monastery, built on the spot where tradition holds the tree from which Jesus' cross was made, was defaced with graffiti bearing the hallmarks of militant Jewish settlers, police said on Tuesday.JERUSALEM -- A Jerusalem monastery, built on the spot where tradition holds the tree from which Jesus' cross was made, was defaced with graffiti bearing the hallmarks of militant Jewish settlers, police said on Tuesday.
Last known WWI veteran dies at 110
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 17:01:36 GMT

Florence Green, left, on her 109th birthday as she is presented with a birthday cake by Hannah Shaw on behalf of the Royal Air Force at her home in King's Lynn, east England, on Feb. 19, 2010. Florence Green, the world's last known veteran of World War I, has died at the age of 110, the care home where she lived said Tuesday.

Political News
A rejection for Romney
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 14:15:02 GMT

First Read: Santorum’s three-state victory Tuesday put Romney’s on-again, off-again frontrunner status back on center stage.
2nd wind for Santorum after wins in Minn., Mo., Colo.
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 06:07:34 GMT

Rick Santorum swept three nominating contests held Tuesday evening, upsetting frontrunner Mitt Romney and injecting new energy into the former Pennsylvania senator's campaign.
House GOP introduces its insider trading bill
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 13:35:58 GMT

House Republicans have introduced their version of a bill to ban insider trading by thousands of federal officials, and have added provisions to bar lawmakers convicted of a felony from collecting their government pensions.
Make or break time for Santorum
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 14:21:45 GMT

First Read: Contests in Colorado, Minnesota and Missouri offer the former Pennsylvania senator an opportunity break through once more.
Some Dems seeking reversal on contraception decision
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 05:02:57 GMT

Some congressional Democrats were working behind the scenes Tuesday to persuade Obama to reverse course; some warned of a potential threat to the president’s re-election chances in states with large Catholic populations.
It's Fallon vs. FLOTUS in a fitness face-off
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 13:52:21 GMT

Jimmy Fallon perhaps unwisely took on Michelle Obama at the White House in several exercise competitions, while Jimmy Kimmel pointed out Mitt Romney's loose approach to facts. Jimmy Fallon perhaps unwisely took on Michelle Obama at the White House in several exercise competitions, while Jimmy Kimmel pointed out Mitt Romney's loose approach to facts.
First Read: A 'Super' reversal
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 15:45:02 GMT

Anyone who is surprised by the Obama campaign's announcement last night that it's encouraging Democratic donors to give money to the pro-Obama Super PAC wasn't paying attention in 2008.
Group wants criminal investigation of Super PACs
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 18:29:36 GMT

First Read: A top campaign watchdog group is calling for a Justice Department criminal investigation into Super PACs supporting President Obama and GOP front runner Mitt Romney.
Messy caucuses in Nevada, Iowa raise questions
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 13:09:12 GMT

After back-to-back fiascos in Nevada and Iowa, the term "caucus" may be on its way to becoming a bad word in the GOP lexicon.
Texas primary date in doubt after deal talks stall
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 13:11:42 GMT

Texas is all but certain to have an even later say in choosing the Republican presidential nominee after what at first looked like a breakthrough deal over redistricting maps ended with wide rejection of the proposal.
Earmarks fund projects near lawmakers' properties
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 10:00:31 GMT

Members of Congress have pushed more than $300 million in earmarks and other provisions to projects near their own properties, the Washington Post reported on Tuesday.
Romney shifts focus to Santorum ahead caucuses
Mon, 6 Feb 2012 20:49:44 GMT

First Read: Mitt Romney's campaign has trained its sights on Rick Santorum over the past 48 hours, demonstrating that Santorum may pose the freshest threat to their frontrunner status.
Senate approves long-stalled aviation bill
Mon, 6 Feb 2012 23:32:03 GMT

The Senate voted Monday afternoon to approve a House-passed bill aimed at improving the nation’s aviation infrastructure and modernizing air traffic control systems.
Obama makes case for second term
Mon, 6 Feb 2012 14:16:50 GMT

First Read: In an interview with NBC’s Matt Lauer, President Obama outlined why he believes he "deserves" to win re-election.
Romney calls birth control rule 'violation of conscience'
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 04:22:16 GMT

First Read: Mitt Romney injected himself into an ongoing battle between religious groups and the Obama administration, calling a new rule which mandates contraceptive coverage be required in healthcare plans a "violation of conscience" and an infringement upon religious liberty.
Santorum fights back ahead of latest primaries
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 01:38:59 GMT

Rick Santorum is fighting back after a barrage of attacks from rival Mitt Romney ahead of three primary season contests that could give the former Pennsylvania senator his best day on the campaign trail since winning the Iowa caucus.
Obama on presidency: ‘You get better as time goes on’
Mon, 6 Feb 2012 14:25:03 GMT

President Barack Obama believes the U.S. has solid intelligence on when Iran becomes capable of developing a nuclear arsenal, but told Matt Lauer Sunday he still believes negotiations are the only way to achieve long-term peace.

Keith Olberman
Olbermann: GOP self-destruction imminent
Tue, 23 Mar 2010 01:11:30 GMT

March 22, 2010: In a Special Comment, Countdown’s Keith Olbermann advises Republicans that clinging to obsolete ideas and resorting to extremist rhetoric will only undermine the party's relevance and America will move on without them. (Countdown)In a Special Comment, Countdown’s Keith Olbermann advises Republicans that clinging to obsolete ideas and resorting to extremist rhetoric will only undermine the party's relevance and America will move on without them.




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An American cry for help
Thu, 25 Feb 2010 02:31:39 GMT

Feb. 24, 2010: In a Special Comment, Countdown’s Keith Olbermann shares his personal experience with a real life 'death panel' situation and scorns the unfairness of health insurance in America.  (Countdown)In a Special Comment, Countdown’s Keith Olbermann shares his personal experience with a real life 'death panel' situation and scorns the unfairness of health insurance in America.




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Olbermann: Beware fear's racist temptation
Tue, 16 Feb 2010 02:23:51 GMT

Feb. 15, 2010: In a Special Comment, Keith Olbermann explores the relationship between fear and racism and encourages Americans who are distressed about the nation's future to avoid political groups that appeal to their less noble inclinations.  (Countdown)In a Special Comment, Keith Olbermann explores the relationship between fear and racism and encourages Americans who are distressed about the nation's future to avoid political groups that appeal to their less noble inclinations.




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Olbermann: U.S. government for sale
Fri, 22 Jan 2010 02:29:28 GMT

Jan. 21: In a Special Comment, Countdown’s Keith Olbermann envisions a future United States in which today's Supreme Court ruling permitting unbridled corporate campaign spending purchase all the power greed can afford. (Countdown)In a Special Comment, Countdown’s Keith Olbermann envisions a future United States in which today's Supreme Court ruling permitting unbridled corporate campaign spending purchase all the power greed can afford.




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Olbermann: Ruined Senate bill unsupportable
Thu, 17 Dec 2009 02:16:50 GMT

Dec. 16, 2009: In a Special Comment, Countdown’s Keith Olbermann stresses that he does not support the current “perversion of health care reform,” urging Senate Democrats to drop the bill.  (Countdown)In a Special Comment, Countdown’s Keith Olbermann stresses that he does not support the current “perversion of health care reform,” urging Senate Democrats to drop the bill.




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Olbermann on Afghanistan: Get out now
Tue, 1 Dec 2009 02:13:49 GMT

Nov. 30: In a Special Comment, Countdown’s Keith Olbermann argues that in the face political and financial opportunism, not to mention outright lies about the war in Afghanistan, and the stark historical warning represented by Vietnam, President Obama should make the change he promised during his campaign and pull U.S. troops out of Afghanistan. (Countdown)In a Special Comment, Countdown’s Keith Olbermann argues that in the face political and financial opportunism, not to mention outright lies about the war in Afghanistan, and the stark historical warning represented by Vietnam, President Obama should make the change he promised during his campaign and pull U.S. troops out of Afghanistan.




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Health care reform: Saving American lives
Thu, 8 Oct 2009 01:26:01 GMT

Oct. 7: In a Special Comment Hour, Countdown’s Keith Olbermann points out that there is no higher human priority than health and therefore no more basic government responsibility than ensuring the care of its citizens.  (Countdown)In a Special Comment Hour, Countdown’s Keith Olbermann explains how the American health care system is broken and why it’s so important that the government steps in to fix it.




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Entertainment News
'Idol's' auditions are its weakest, sappiest link
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 13:53:49 GMT

The show moves on to the Hollywood round this week, and thank goodness. The auditions are the one part of the singing show experience that “Idol” perennially gets wrong.The show moves on to the Hollywood round this week, and thank goodness. The auditions are the one part of the singing show experience that “Idol” perennially gets wrong.
'X Factor' regret: Simon didn't want to fire Paula
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 17:58:09 GMT

The recent string of "X Factor" firings didn't come from show creator Simon Cowell. In fact, if the decision had been up to him, Paula Abdul would still be part of the talent competition.The recent string of "X Factor" firings didn't come from show creator Simon Cowell. In fact, if the decision had been up to him, Paula Abdul would still be part of the talent competition.
Madonna reportedly mad at M.I.A. over finger
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 18:12:07 GMT

Madonna's halftime performance was upstaged by British rapper M.I.A. giving the finger to the Super Bowl crowd, and the star isn't too happy about it.Madonna's halftime performance was upstaged by British rapper M.I.A. giving the finger to the Super Bowl crowd, and the star isn't too happy about it.
Ferris' teacher: I should have been in ad
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 16:04:39 GMT

Ben Stein, who famously played Ferris Bueller's economics teacher in the 1986 classic comedy, "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," wasn't asked to spoof his much-repeated line in the Honda Super Bowl ad -- but he thinks he should have been.Ben Stein, who famously played Ferris Bueller's economics teacher in the 1986 classic comedy, "Ferris Bueller's Day Off," wasn't asked to spoof his much-repeated line in the Honda Super Bowl ad -- but he thinks he should have been.
Washington gets sociopathic in 'Safe House'
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 14:43:10 GMT

Studying sociopathic behavior helped two-time Oscar winner Denzel Washington shape his character in the new film "Safe House."Studying sociopathic behavior helped two-time Oscar winner Denzel Washington shape his character in the new film "Safe House."
'Jersey Shore's' Snooki admits she's bisexual
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 15:35:24 GMT

In an interview, Snooki admitting to liking to smoosh with girls; in the same interview she and fellow "Shore" meatball JWoww hinted that The Situation may be gay.In an interview, Snooki admitting to liking to smoosh with girls; in the same interview she and fellow "Shore" meatball JWoww hinted that The Situation may be gay.
'Downton Abbey's' popularity continues to soar
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 14:57:44 GMT

Move over, "Mad Men" and Kim Kardashian. There's a new darling in U.S. pop culture, with a much posher accent and even fancier clothes.Move over, "Mad Men" and Kim Kardashian. There's a new darling in U.S. pop culture, with a much posher accent and even fancier clothes.
Tensions grow as 'Loser' makes awkward exit
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 03:29:38 GMT

Things got off to an bad start right away and continued as Conda's over-the-top complaints were caught on tape for her trainer to see.Things got off to an bad start right away and continued as Conda's over-the-top complaints were caught on tape for her trainer to see.
Radcliffe 'miffed' about 'Harry Potter' Oscar snub
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 00:11:47 GMT

Although the franchise has racked up a total of 12 nominations, it hasn't won a single statuette. Even worse, it's never been recognized in any of the artistic categories.Although the franchise has racked up a total of 12 nominations, it hasn't won a single statuette. Even worse, it's never been recognized in any of the artistic categories.
Brown, Rihanna to both perform at Grammys
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 21:03:13 GMT

Rumors have been flying that the pair may be secretly dating again, three years after he violently attacked her on the eve of the awards show.Rumors have been flying that the pair may be secretly dating again, three years after he violently attacked her on the eve of the awards show.
Scherzinger on 'X Factor' exit: 'I have no regrets'
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 23:33:04 GMT

"All I know is that I gave 110 percent to that show,” the star told Access Hollywood. “I know everybody’s talking about it, they’re saying good, bad, they love me or hate me.” "All I know is that I gave 110 percent to that show,” the star told Access Hollywood. “I know everybody’s talking about it, they’re saying good, bad, they love me or hate me.”
Robert Downey Jr., wife welcome baby boy
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 18:11:14 GMT

The "Sherlock Holmes" star and wife Susan are proud parents of son Exton Elias Downey, People reports.The "Sherlock Holmes" star and wife Susan are proud parents of son Exton Elias Downey, People reports.
J.Lo: I'd wear famous, plunging Grammy dress
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 19:05:28 GMT

The 42-year-old mother of twins says she wouldn't have a problem stepping back into the see-through green Versace number.The 42-year-old mother of twins says she wouldn't have a problem stepping back into the see-through green Versace number.
'Idol' boss: 'The Voice' is 'very gimmicky'
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 21:32:31 GMT

Nigel Lythgoe hopped on a conference call with reporters this morning where he was asked how he felt about the ratings success of "The Voice's' second season and whether or not it's contributing to "Idol's" ratings decline. Nigel Lythgoe hopped on a conference call with reporters this morning where he was asked how he felt about the ratings success of "The Voice's' second season and whether or not it's contributing to "Idol's" ratings decline.
Ryan Reynolds 'Safe' after clocking Denzel
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 14:23:47 GMT

Actor tells TODAY about his new action thriller and how giving his co-star a black eye went over during filming.Actor tells TODAY about his new action thriller and how giving his co-star a black eye went over during filming.
Beyonce makes first post-baby outing
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 14:56:50 GMT

New mom showed off her curves in a figure-hugging dress while supporting husband Jay-Z at his Carnegie Hall concert.New mom showed off her curves in a figure-hugging dress while supporting husband Jay-Z at his Carnegie Hall concert.
Make way for the worst reality TV players
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 13:50:09 GMT

There’s nothing like a reality TV villain — Kate Gosselin, Marcel Vigneron and NaOnka Mixon, just to name a few — to inspire bad words from good viewers.There’s nothing like a reality TV villain — Kate Gosselin, Marcel Vigneron and NaOnka Mixon, just to name a few — to inspire bad words from good viewers.
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Tech & Science News
Aurora extravaganza glows in space
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 02:44:18 GMT

Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: Colorful videos prove that the astronauts aboard the International Space Station had the best seats in the house for last month's northern lights.Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: Colorful videos prove that the astronauts aboard the International Space Station had the best seats in the house for last month's northern lights.
Top 6 Facebook annoyances—and how to fix them
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 00:10:39 GMT

Here are six annoyances Facebook users run into that can really grind our gears. But we have the solutions for each.Here are six annoyances Facebook users run into that can really grind our gears. But we have the solutions for each.
Video: Trick out your console using Vault
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 00:21:27 GMT

The case that adds an extra layer of awesome gaming goodness to your Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3. In-Game’s Todd Kenreck reports. (MSNBC)The case that adds an extra layer of awesome gaming goodness to your Xbox 360 or PlayStation 3. In-Game’s Todd Kenreck reports. (In-Game)
Top 8 laptops under $500
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 12:28:40 GMT

The price of Windows laptops continues to decline, with the average system costing just $456 as of a few months ago. However, you don’t have to settle for something that’s underpowered or poorly made when you opt for a bargain notebook. The price of Windows laptops continues to decline, with the average system costing just $456 as of a few months ago. However, you don’t have to settle for something that’s underpowered or poorly made when you opt for a bargain notebook.
Google to pledge not to favor Motorola over rivals
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 17:40:39 GMT

Google Inc's logo is seen at an office in Seoul in this May 3, 2011 file photograph.Google will pledge to license on fair and reasonable terms the patents it acquires through buying Motorola Mobility, said a person familiar with the matter, in a bid to allay regulatory and users' concerns.
Obama calls for boosting science education
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 00:20:33 GMT

Feb. 7: At the White House Science Fair President Barack Obama pitched an initiative to train more math and science teachers, and spent some quality time with young scientists. NBC’s Brian Williams reports.  (Nightly News)President Barack Obama called on Tuesday for millions of dollars in new funding to improve math and science education, an effort he said would be crucial to the nation's long-term success.
Russian scientists reach lake under Antarctica
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 17:10:57 GMT

Russian researchers at the Vostok station in Antarctica pose for a picture after reaching subglacial lake Vostok. Scientists hold the sign reading "05.02.12, Vostok station, boreshaft 5gr, lake at depth 3769.3 metres."After more than two decades of drilling in Antarctica, Russian scientists have reached the surface of a gigantic freshwater lake hidden under miles of ice for some 20 million years — a lake that may hold life from the distant past and clues to the search for life on other planets.
App teaches you to flirt in 10 languages
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 18:00:23 GMT

Why limit your chances of finding love by flirting only in English? You could easily multiply your odds by chatting up charming strangers in several other languages. And an iPhone app will help guide you through that process.Why limit your chances of finding love by flirting only in English? You could easily multiply your odds by chatting up charming strangers in several other languages. And an iPhone app will help guide you through that process.
Hackers post W.Va. police officers' personal info
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 14:07:27 GMT

Hackers affiliated with the Anonymous hacking group obtained more than 150 police officers' personal information from an old website for the West Virginia Chiefs of Police Association and posted it online.
Olympus' new flagship camera has '70s look
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 15:05:13 GMT

Olympus' newest camera — a beauty who goes by the name OM-D E-M5 — may be the company's latest and greatest, but it actually draws inspiration from its 1970s ancestors.Olympus' newest camera — a beauty who goes by the name OM-D E-M5 — may be the company's latest and greatest, but it actually draws inspiration from its 1970s ancestors.
Report: Hacked Syrian officials used '12345' as email password
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 16:19:50 GMT

After hundreds of emails from the office of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad were leaked on Monday, a report revealed that several of Assad's aides and advisers used the password "12345."After hundreds of emails from the office of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad were leaked on Monday, a report revealed that several of Assad's aides and advisers used the password "12345."
Sprint loss widens on iPhone costs
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 17:28:48 GMT
Video: Iceland's new sea creature?
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 15:49:34 GMT

Feb. 8: Amateur video shows something moving down a river in Iceland that some say could be a sea creature like the Loch Ness Monster. Msnbc.com's Dara Brown reports. (msnbc.com)Amateur video shows something moving down a river in Iceland that some say could be a sea creature like the Loch Ness Monster. Msnbc.com's Dara Brown reports. (msnbc.com)
Photo reveals majestic nebula's hidden secrets
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 17:13:02 GMT

This panorama of the Carina Nebula, a region of massive star formation in the southern skies, was taken in infrared light using the HAWK-I camera on the European Southern Observatory's Very Large Telescope in Chile and released Wednesday. Many previously hidden features, scattered across a spectacular celestial landscape of gas, dust and young stars, have emerged.The most detailed image yet of the well-known Carina nebula has been caught by a European telescope, unveiling previously hidden features of an exquisite star nursery.
Why a volcano's eruption paralyzed air traffic
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 17:56:43 GMT

The plume of ash and steam from the Eyjafjallajokull volcano reached 17,000 to 20,000 feet (5 to 6 kilometers) into the atmosphere on May 10, 2010, when the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) on NASA's Aqua satellite captured this image.Jagged flecks of ash spewed into the air may have boosted the effects of the 2010 eruption of Iceland's Eyjafjallajokull volcano, which paralyzed flights across Europe, a new study finds.
Obama lauds formerly homeless teen at science fair
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 15:17:24 GMT

The president talked with Samantha Garvey, left, about her environmental sciences project examining the effect of physical environment and predators on a species of mussel, in the State Dining Room of the White House on Feb. 7.Two weeks after attending the State of the Union address, formerly homeless teen Samantha Garvey was back in Washington, D.C. Tuesday, where she displayed her scientific acumen — and got a shout-out from the president.
Samsung says TV sales stronger; plans to launch low-end TVs
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 06:56:06 GMT

Samsung Electronics Co, the world's top television manufacturer, has seen TV sales firming up so far this year and plans to introduce cheaper TVs, as demand for lower-end models increase, the head of its TV business said on Wednesday.
Apple's mysterious iTV: What we think we know
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 19:40:13 GMT

We recently compiled the most significant iPad 3 rumors, but the tablet isn't the only yet-to-be-announced piece of Apple gear on everyone's collective mind. So let's chat a bit about the other elephant in the room — the mysterious Apple iTV.We recently compiled the most significant iPad 3 rumors, but the tablet isn't the only yet-to-be-announced piece of Apple gear on everyone's collective mind. So let's chat a bit about the other elephant in the room — the mysterious Apple iTV.
UK man appeals Twitter 'joke' conviction
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 14:12:24 GMT

A British man who was convicted and fined for jokingly posting a message on Twitter saying he would blow up an airport is appealing his conviction.
Designing Windows 8 — or redesigning a religion
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 12:35:35 GMT

Sam Moreau just might have the hardest gig at Microsoft — redesigning the operating system used by like a billion people all over the world.Sam Moreau just might have the hardest gig at Microsoft — redesigning the operating system used by like a billion people all over the world.
Why there are so few fish in the sea
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 01:47:40 GMT

A school of fish swim near staghorn coral at Wheeler Reef, part of the Great Barrier Reef. Most saltwater fish may have evolved from a freshwater ancestor, according to a new study that traces the family tree of both marine and freshwater fish.
Hacker releases Symantec source code
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 23:39:30 GMT

A hacker released the source code for antivirus firm Symantec's pcAnywhere utility on Tuesday, raising fears that others could find security holes in the product and attempt takeovers of customer computers. The release followed failed email negotiations over a $50,000 payout to the hacker calling himself YamaTough to destroy the code.
Security camera video flaw lets voyeurs see all
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 19:45:18 GMT

Video feeds from some home users' Internet security cameras — including children's rooms and bathroom scenes — are being seen by others around the world because of a coding error that is part of the cameras' software.Video feeds from some home users' Internet security cameras — including children's rooms and bathroom scenes — are being seen by others around the world because of a coding error that is part of the cameras' software.
NASA outlines next phase for its space taxi plan
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 22:53:33 GMT

A NASA graphic shows hardware from the aerospace companies that have Space Act Agreements with the agency for developing crew transport systems. Top row, from left: Blue Origin's orbital space vehicle, Boeing's CST-100, Sierra Nevada's Dream Chaser and SpaceX's Dragon. Bottom row includes the International Space Station as well as ATK's Liberty Rocket, Excalibur's Almaz spacecraft and United Launch Alliance's rockets. The companies represented in the bottom row currently have unfunded agreements.NASA is looking for at least two U.S. firms to design and build space transport systems for ferrying astronauts to and from the International Space Station, program managers said Tuesday.
Microscopic marvels captured on video
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 15:19:53 GMT

Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: What could be more wonderful than pictures of microscopic marvels? Brace yourself for some award-winning movies showing those marvels in action.Science editor Alan Boyle's blog: What could be more wonderful than pictures of microscopic marvels? Brace yourself for some award-winning movies showing those marvels in action.
Defendant may have forgotten password
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 18:02:54 GMT

A Colorado woman, recently ordered by a judge to turn over her password to decrypt her hard drive, may not remember what that password is.
Fireball over Texas caught by police video cam
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 01:36:55 GMT

A bright fireball streaked across the nighttime sky over eastern Texas and Oklahoma last week, and was caught on video by a police car camera.
World's highest-pitched primate calls out like bat
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 00:43:21 GMT

The tiny Philippine tarsier holding a grub, a favorite snack.A huge-eyed little primate of the Philippines can communicate in pure ultrasound — issuing calls so high-pitched that human ears can't detect them.
Chrome comes to some Android phones, tablets
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 21:02:58 GMT

Google's Chrome Web browser in Beta is available for Android phone and tablets users — but for now, that is going be a small number of them who have the latest version of the Android operating system, 4.0 (also known as Ice Cream Sandwich), on their devices.Google's Chrome Web browser in Beta is available for Android phone and tablets users — but for now, that is going be a small number of them who have the latest version of the Android operating system, 4.0 (also known as Ice Cream Sandwich), on their devices.

Health News
Skyscraper runners take workouts to incredible heights
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 13:42:22 GMT

Sprinting up 86 flights of stairs of the Empire State Building -- even if it's for a worthy cause -- is not everyone's idea of a good time. Especially when there's an elevator nearby. But tonight, more than 650 participants will take the long way up one of New York's most iconic landmarks at this year's Empire State Building Run-Up.Sprinting up 86 flights of stairs of the Empire State Building -- even if it's for a worthy cause -- is not everyone's idea of a good time. Especially when there's an elevator nearby. But tonight, more than 650 participants will take the long way up one of New York's most iconic landmarks at this year's Empire State Building Run-Up.
Teen pregnancy, abortion rates at record low
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 14:51:36 GMT

Birth and abortion rates among U.S. teens fell to record lows in 2008 as increased use of contraceptives sent the overall teen pregnancy rate to its lowest level since at least 1972, a study showed on Wednesday.
Lap-Band surgeries halted at 2 LA clinics
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 14:19:32 GMT

Two Los Angeles-area outpatient clinics affiliated with the 1-800 GET-THIN marketing company have temporarily stopped Lap-Band weight-loss surgeries while they conduct a review of the procedure.
Inhalable caffeine a cheap buzz, but may have risks
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 14:31:38 GMT

Critics worry club-goers will use the the 'AeroShot' caffeine device so they can drink until they drop.Move over, coffee and Red Bull. A Harvard professor thinks the next big thing will be people inhaling their caffeine from a lipstick-sized tube. Critics say the novel product is not without its risks.
Paternity questions plague 1 in 10, firm says
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 13:41:18 GMT

The company that made its name peddling drugstore paternity tests to uncertain parents now says that more than 1 in 10 adults in the U.S. has had reason to ask the question: Who’s your Daddy? Gary Garner finally confirmed he's the real father of Skyler, 14. The company that made its name peddling drugstore paternity tests to uncertain parents now says that more than 1 in 10 adults in the U.S. has had reason to ask the question: Who’s your Daddy? Gary Garner finally confirmed he's the real father of Skyler, 14.
Salt overload: Nearly all U.S. adults consume too much
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 19:10:21 GMT

Despite public health messages telling Americans to lower the amount of salt in their diets, 90 percent of people in the U.S. older than age 2 consume more than the recommended amount of sodium each day, a new report says.
Komen's Karen Handel quits after funding dispute
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 21:26:47 GMT

Karen Handel, an executive with the Susan G. Komen for the Cure breast-cancer charity has resigned after a dispute over funding for Planned Parenthood.
Have we met? Face blindness prevents recognition
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 22:49:49 GMT

Some people are better at recognizing a face. Now a study of individuals who have prosopagnosia, a disorder rendering them unable to distinguish another's mug, suggests a possible cause: a breakdown in a brain pathway used to process faces.
Distraction reduces pain, study finds
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 23:31:34 GMT

By Joseph BrownsteinMyHealthNewsDailyWhen you distract yourself from pain, you actually hurt less, a new study suggests.
Is it Alzheimer's, or mild cognitive impairment?
Mon, 6 Feb 2012 22:00:10 GMT

Almost everyone currently diagnosed with a mild form of Alzheimer's disease would be downgraded to not having the condition, if new proposed criteria for the diagnosis of cognitive problems were applied, a new study shows.
College vending machine offers 'morning-after' pill
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 23:27:14 GMT

Students at a Pennsylvania university can obtain the "morning-after" pill from an unusual source — a vending machine at the campus health center.
Obama increases Alzheimer's research funding
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 17:22:36 GMT

The Obama administration announced Tuesday it is increasing spending on Alzheimer's research — planning to surpass half a billion dollars next year — as part of a quest to find effective treatments for the brain-destroying disease by 2025.
Doctors diagnose Harry Potter's headaches
Mon, 6 Feb 2012 15:24:21 GMT

After years of studying, experts think they've figured out what was ailing Harry Potter all those years -- a  nummular headache.After years of studying, experts think they've figured out what was ailing Harry Potter all those years -- a  nummular headache.
Study: Child abuse bigger threat than SIDS
Mon, 6 Feb 2012 15:14:15 GMT

In the first national estimate of serious injuries due to child abuse, Yale University researchers say 4,600 U.S. children were hospitalized with broken bones, traumatic brain injury and other serious damage caused by abuse. Babies younger than one were the most common victims.
Facebook takes a toll on your mental health
Mon, 6 Feb 2012 23:39:09 GMT

By Stephanie PappasLiveScience Facebook's initial public offering of stock is likely to make a lot of developers and designers of the site very wealthy.
Sex-ed less effective in red states, study says
Mon, 6 Feb 2012 23:47:37 GMT

By Christopher WanjekLiveScience Sex education is failing to reduce adolescent birthrates in conservative states, according to a new study. Perhaps paradoxically, states with a majority conservative population and higher degree of religiosity tend to have higher teen birthrates.
Spanking linked to more aggression in kids
Mon, 6 Feb 2012 18:25:06 GMT

A review of 20 years of research finds that physically disciplining a child has long-term, harmful effects on their development.
Is social media spreading twitching hysteria?
Fri, 3 Feb 2012 19:31:08 GMT

In the case of nearly 20 teenagers with a twitching disorder in upstate New York, doctors say the symptoms may be spreading faster through the girls' own use of Facebook and other forms of social media.
More mystery illness cases reported in upstate NY
Thu, 2 Feb 2012 21:33:14 GMT

Three more teens and a 36-year-old nurse have been stricken by the same symptoms first observed in 12 teenage girls.Three more teens and a 36-year-old nurse have been stricken by the same symptoms first observed in 12 teenage girls.

Sports News
Winderman: Another empty MVP for LeBron?
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 21:38:23 GMT

Heat star LeBron James is playing better than ever, but he still has to carry that into the playoffs, NBCSports.com contributor Ira Winderman writes.Winderman: 2-time winner says he's got a better game, but will he utilize it to win his first NBA title?
PBT: Perkins rips LeBron over his Blake tweet
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 16:20:43 GMT
Jacobs to Gisele: 'Just stay cute and shut up'
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 14:47:51 GMT

Off the Bench: New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs reacts to remarks made by Tom Brady's wife Gisele Bundchen, who criticized New England Patriots players after their Super Bowl defeat Sunday.
PFT: Harrison says criticism of Brady unfair
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 01:16:30 GMT
PFT: Vick is America's most hated; Tiger's 2nd
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 13:27:24 GMT

PFT: According to the latest surveys conducted by Nielsen and partner E-Poll Market Research, published by Forbes, Vick is the most disliked athlete in all of sports, just edging out Tiger Woods.PFT: According to the latest surveys conducted by Nielsen and partner E-Poll Market Research, published by Forbes, Vick is the most disliked athlete in all of sports, just edging out Tiger Woods.
PFT: Tuna text persuaded Ricky Williams to retire
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 16:59:06 GMT
Arc: UNC can show it's still elite against Duke
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 16:02:19 GMT

Arc: Everything should run through Harrison Barnes tonight, and there is no solid matchup for him one-on-one. Tied atop the ACC with Florida State, the Tar Heels should look to Barnes early and often.Arc: Everything should run through Harrison Barnes tonight, and there is no solid matchup for him one-on-one. Tied atop the ACC with Florida State, the Tar Heels should look to Barnes early and often.
Arc: Kentucky shows it can be 'impossible' to beat
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 04:24:29 GMT

Beyond the Arc: As No. 8 Florida will attest, when No. 1 Wildcats are shooting, swatting and hustling like they did Tuesday, they're awfully good.
New York gives Giants parade after Super win
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 00:27:55 GMT

Thousands of fans roared as New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning hoisted the team's Super Bowl trophy awarded to the National Football League champions, from a glittering blue-and-white float Tuesday during a victory parade through New York City, which Mayor Michael Bloomberg quipped should now be nicknamed the "Big Blue Apple."
Ellis scores 48, but Warriors fall to Thunder
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 07:45:23 GMT

Oklahoma City Thunder small forward Kevin Durant (35) scores in the last 15.7 seconds against the Golden State Warriors in the fourth quarter of an NBA basketball game in Oakland, Calif., Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2012. Oklahoma City Thunder defeated Golden State Warriors 119-116. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)Kevin Durant hit a go-ahead bank shot with 14.2 seconds remaining, and the NBA-leading Oklahoma City Thunder overcame career performances by Monta Ellis and David Lee to beat the Golden State Warriors 119-116 on Tuesday night.
Pierce passes Bird in Celtics' win over Bobcats
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 04:17:44 GMT

Boston Celtics forward Paul Pierce acknowledges the crowd after passing Larry Bird for the No. 2 spot on the team's career scoring list, during the second half of an NBA basketball game against the Charlotte Bobcats in Boston on Tuesday, Feb. 7, 2012. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola)Paul Pierce knew what was on the line with every shot.
PFT: Eli not a Hall of Famer yet, Warner says
Tue, 7 Feb 2012 22:36:36 GMT

PFT: Retired QB says Manning hasn't been a "difference maker" until this season.PFT: Retired QB says Manning hasn't been a "difference maker" until this season.
PHT: Malkin’s incredible shootout spin-o-rama
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 14:09:39 GMT
CFT: Memphis joins Big East — it's basically C-USA
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 17:13:54 GMT
NY boy, 12, who got hit with lacrosse ball dies
Wed, 8 Feb 2012 14:29:40 GMT

A 12-year-old boy who was hit in the chest by a lacrosse ball last week has died in upstate New York.

Left in Alabama Front Page News & Blog
Mo Brooks Looking To African American Voters For Help In GOP Primary
Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:48:54 GMT
mooncat

Obama critic Mo Brooks -- yeah, the same Mo Brooks who had his remarks insinuating Democrats are socialists taken down in the House -- is sufficiently worried about GOP challenger Parker Griffith that he's looking for help from an unlikely corner ... African-American voters. Here is Madison County Commissioner (and prominent ADC member) Bob Harrison speaking at the Democratic Men's Club last Saturday morning.

      

"Mo called me the other day -- this is a true story -- and said "Are you going to try to help me with Parker?"  (laughter)  And I said, Mo, you know we crossed over last time to try to get you, but in 2014 I'm running against you."

Brooks has criticized Barack Obama, called Nancy Pelosi a socialist, harped about "Obama-care" ad nauseum and is all for austerity as long as it falls on the poor and middle class.  Why on earth would any Democratic voters, especially African Americans, vote for Brooks?

If the race is betweeen Mo Brooks and Beelzebub, the smart votes go for Beelzebub.


Bentley to Join the "Scorched Earth Society"?
Wed, 08 Feb 2012 16:45:23 GMT
Dragontide
 Governor Robert Bentley gave his 2012 SOTS address last night. Besides lying about job numbers and saying nothing about getting the rest of the money BP owes us from the oil spill, he echoed the same dangerous message we've been hearing over and over from Republicans across the country:
 
 
"We will make sure any rule or regulation that stands in the way of economic development is eliminated. We will free our businesses from unnecessary, bureaucratic road blocks so that they can make better bottom line decisions that create jobs and economic opportunity."

 Bentley has not yet elaborated on which rules & regulations are standing in the way of (his idea of) economic development. But what else could he be referring to if not environmental regulations?

 Bentley talked about tornadoes in 2011 but nothing about the root cause. As surface temperatures continue to remain way above average, the situation can only get worse. We have to get used to the idea of more environmental regulations in the name of economic growth. (and survival)

 Which part(s) of the speech caught your attention?

 FULL SOTS TRANSCRIPT BELOW THE FOLD


MONTGOMERY, Alabama – Feb. 7 – Following is the prepared text of Gov. Robert Bentley's (R) 2012 state of the state address:

Lieutenant Governor Ivey, Speaker Hubbard, President Pro Tem Marsh, distinguished guests, members of the Legislature and my fellow Alabamians:

It is in indeed an honor to join you in this Chamber as we reflect on a year of historic events and cast a bold vision for the future of our state.

To members of my Cabinet thank you for your service and for meeting the challenges we face as a state with courage and the hearts of servant leaders. It is a privilege to work with each of you.

Chief Justice Malone, distinguished members of the Alabama Supreme Court – thank you for your leadership and your service to our state.

As we reflect on the first year of my administration and chart a course for the future, I want us all to remember, state government belongs to the people of this state. As public servants chosen to lead this state, we must begin every day with a commitment to give Alabamians every opportunity to make their lives better.

The people of this state expect us to make tough decisions in tough times. They expect us to come together, to work together to create jobs, to give our children the best education and to improve our quality of life.

As we face the days ahead, we must have the courage to make difficult decisions, we must have compassion for the people we serve, and we must work together to improve the lives of all Alabamians.

The first time we met together, right here in this historic chamber, I pledged to do all I could to put Alabamians back to work.

As I stand before you tonight, I’m pleased to report that since we took office, 41 thousand more Alabamians are working. That’s 41 thousand more Alabamians earning a paycheck today than a year ago. And more jobs are on the way.

We have recruited over 13,000 new, future jobs to Alabama. International companies from India,Germany and Japan and right here in the United States are investing more that 3 point 2 billion dollars in our state and in our people.

And just today there was more good news. A Chinese company will bring up to 500 new jobs to Wilcox County where we have the highest unemployment rate in the state.

In the last four months Alabama’s unemployment rate has dropped faster than any other state in the nation.

We’ve done this despite facing tough competition from other states and with limited ability to offer incentives to businesses.

So why are national and international business leaders choosing to invest in Alabama? They recognize that Alabama has the strongest business climate, best work force training, and the hardest working people they will find anywhere.

They also know that our leaders at every level of government and our local economic developers take a team approach to putting Alabamians back to work.

There is no better example of that than what we did to help the town of Hackleburg. We all remember what happened in April. This community of 1,400 people in Northwest Alabama was devastated by the storms. Twenty-five people were killed. The schools were demolished. 150 homes were lost. And the Wrangler Distribution Center, the town’s largest employer, was destroyed.

We knew if those critical jobs at Wrangler were not restored, there was little hope for saving this community

The mayor, the county commissioners, local legislators, and our Alabama Development Office helped me with one common goal – saving the community.

And our teamwork paid off. Wrangler executives heard our message and agreed to not only rebuild in Hackleburg, but to expand from 150 jobs to 250 jobs for the community. I want to thank everyone for a job well done.

When I took office, I learned that despite our previous success in recruiting new industry to our state, we did not have a comprehensive, statewide economic development plan to guide our efforts. That’s why I created the Alabama Economic Alliance made up of economic development leaders from communities across Alabama.

Working together the Alliance has delivered a blueprint to drive our future efforts in the creation of jobs in eleven business sectors of the state.

The report recommended that we increase the number of prospect-ready sites across Alabama and it called for strengthening our workforce development programs.

All are worthy goals that we will implement this year.

We will also present an aggressive jobs agenda as a top priority in this Legislative Session and that will give our economic recruiters new tools to grow jobs in Alabama.

Our workers must continue to have the training they need to succeed in the jobs of the 21st century. That’s why I am proposing new investment in our workforce development and career tech programs.

And we will make sure any rule or regulation that stands in the way of economic development is eliminated. We will free our businesses from unnecessary, bureaucratic road blocks so that they can make better bottom line decisions that create jobs and economic opportunity.

I have been fortunate this year to spend time in communities across our state. A concern I have heard over and over is the need for better roads and bridges to lead to greater economic opportunities and to improve their quality of life for all our citizens.

Trucks, school buses, farm equipment must now be diverted in parts of our rural areas due to bridges that need repair. We have an obligation to preserve the roads we now have and fix our bridges.

We have the ability to finance a major infrastructure program. We will work with local leaders to identify what roads need repair and we will get them fixed as soon as possible. With the use of GARVEE Bonds we can achieve this without raising taxes or taking money from our state savings account. These can be issued as needs are identified.

If we are going to continue to grow jobs in Alabama, we must manage our money wisely.

That will require us to make difficult decisions in our state budgets.

We face a major funding shortfall in our General Fund. We have 25% less money to provide basic services.

We know what the federal government would do. They would print more money, borrow against our children’s future and drive up our national debt. That won’t ever happen in Alabama.

Early this morning at 4:30 there was a single mother who got up and went to work. She works hard everyday at her job serving the people in her community. On April 15th we expect her to send her taxes to Montgomery. And we’re expected to be good stewards of that money.

That’s exactly what we are going to do. And we are not going to raise her taxes. I promised the people of this state that I would not raise taxes on the people of Alabama, and I am going to keep my word.

I will oppose any effort to raise taxes on Alabama families, and I will veto any tax increase. The people of this state expect us to live within our means, and that’s exactly what we’re going to do.

Now, that means that we must prioritize the people’s money. We must first use that money to support critical state services that have a proven track record.

Passing balanced budgets that protect programs and fully funding critical state services will require the same kind of self-sacrifice and spirit that we saw in the wake of the April tornadoes.

In our General Fund, we will protect the Alabama Department of Public Safety. Nothing is more important than ensuring the safety of our citizens.

Our most vulnerable seniors and children depend on critical services from the Department of Human Resources. I want them to know we will protect them at every turn.

And in the budget I am recommending – we will not cut one penny from the Department of Corrections. Not one single prisoner will be set free due to a lack of funds.

Unfortunately, government always expands to meet the amount of money we have. We must make sure the opposite occurs.

We must reduce the size and scope of government and we have already begun this process.

I will propose legislation that consolidates a number of state agencies.

We will modernize outdated systems within state government by taking advantage of the latest technology to save 100 million dollars over 10 years.

We will streamline our licensing procedures which will produce greater efficiency and significant savings for taxpayers.

And that’s just the beginning.

I am committed, together with Lt. Governor Ivey, Speaker Hubbard and Senator Marsh, and our Legislature to making sure we reduce the size of government and make government more efficient. The people of this state deserve this. And the process of cutting, reducing and saving taxpayers money will never stop as long as I’m Governor.

In my education budget, the Alabama Reading Initiative, ACCESS Distance Learning, the Alabama Math Science and Technology Initiative, Advance Placement and our highly successful Pre K programs will all be protected. These are all proven programs that have helped our children achieve better results.

We know that the healthcare of our children is critical to their learning process. That is why I am proposing that we invest more of our education dollars in the well-being of our children. We will make sure children are ready to compete and learn, knowing that they have access to the health care services they need and deserve.

In education, we provide transportation to and from school for our children. If children aren’t in school they can’t learn. That’s why we will protect funds that provide transportation.

We also provide meals to our children who need them - sometimes twice a day. And everyone knows you cannot learn on an empty stomach. In the budget we are presenting, we will ensure no child goes hungry.

We also know a child cannot learn if they are sick. By investing more of our Education dollars in the health of our children, we will make sure that they are healthy and successful.

This year we are proposing an aggressive education agenda. In this global economy, our competitors aren’t just Georgia,Tennessee, and Mississippi. They are from all over the world. If we’re going to continue to recruit the jobs our people deserve, our workers cannot be just the best in the Southeast, or the best in the country. They have to be the best in the world. And that’s why, as a state, we have to constantly be looking for ways to improve how we educate our children.

We must begin by giving our existing public schools more flexibility. I will propose The School Flexibility Act of 2012, which will allow more decision-making at the local level. Working with the Legislative leadership, we will give local school systems the ability to develop their own innovative strategies, free from state or federal bureaucracy.

We must also allow parents a choice in how and where their child receives an education.

Every parent, regardless of how much money they have or where they live, should be given the chance for their child to attend an excellent school. We must give children every opportunity to live up to their full potential. Every child, and every parent, deserves nothing less.

No doubt you’ve heard a lot recently about Charter Schools, and you will hear a lot more in this Legislative Session. Charter schools are public schools.

The legislation we will propose would create a limited number of public charter schools to give parents a choice.

And we are going pass public charter school legislation in Alabama because our children and parents, and yes, teachers deserve a choice.

It’s time for all of us to stop pointing fingers and placing blame for the problems we face in education. It’s time we come together and lend a hand to find real solutions, because there is nothing we cannot solve by working together.

Working with State Superintendent Dr. Tommy Bice and his team, we will ensure that every child’s classroom and school is led by a highly effective, professional educator free to use their talents to create a stimulating and innovative learning environment in their own classroom.

I know that, many times, our teachers spend hundreds of dollars of their own money on their classrooms. Today, I propose a dollar-for-dollar tax credit for every teacher in this state who spends their money on their classroom.

The most important people in a child’s life are the ones who kiss them goodbye in the morning, and the one who spends the day with them in the classroom. We know that, other than their parents, nothing matters more to a child's education than the effectiveness of his or her teacher. We cannot become the world's best public education system without listening to our teachers and principals. We cannot reform education by ignoring educators.

That's why I will form a “Teacher Cabinet”, made up of teachers, administrators, school board members, and parents. These leaders will provide my administration with unfiltered feedback on the needs of our public schools.

I want to hear directly from Muscle Shoals and Monroeville, Fort Payne and Fairhope, Decatur and Dothan, and all places in between, without the filter and spin of Montgomery lobbyists.

And as we’re talking about our teachers, I want to recognize two of the very best of the profession and the first two members of our Teacher Cabinet.

Dr. Gay Barnes teaches first grade at Horizon Elementary School in Madison. She is Alabama’s Teacher of the Year, and a finalist for National Teacher of the Year.

Jeremy Raper teaches Advanced Engineering and Honors Physics at Bob Jones High School. He is one of only 40 teachers in the country to receive the prestigious Milken Educator Award last year.

Both of these teachers represent the best among our educators in Alabama, and are great examples of the teachers we now have leading our students, and the type of teachers we want to continue to have leading in the classroom.

Dr. Barnes, Mr. Raper will you both please stand.

To improve the quality of life for all Alabamians, we have to improve our overall health. In every report detailing the health of our state – the news is not good.Alabama consistently is at the bottom of almost every health ranking including rates of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and infant mortality.

That is not acceptable.

I know we can do better. In Alabama there are countless organizations, agencies and programs all dedicated to improving the health of our people and we are thankful for their efforts. But it’s time we start producing real results that improve the lives of our people.

I will create a Health Alliance bringing all of these entities together at one table. Each one will have a clear mission and we will set goals for our state to reach.

When we all work together to improve the lives of Alabamians, we produce real results.

We saw how well this works with the Tornado Recovery Action Council, where a group of private citizens came together, listened to the people and produced twenty, common sense recommendations to better prepare our state for future disasters.

We’re facing some adversity right now. It’s a time that demands courageous leadership, and sacrifice. Those of us who serve in government learned during the spring of 2011 that there is no difficulty that the people of Alabama cannot overcome when we work together and put aside personal agendas for the greater good.

That is what we saw in the wave of generosity that swept across our state in the aftermath of April 27th. Volunteers came from far and wide to help from Franklin to DeKalb County, Calhoun to Winston County. Generous and caring groups from Auburn came to the aid of those in Tuscaloosa. That’s just the kind of spirit we need in our state to help solve all our problems.

We also see it in Carson Tinker. By now you may have heard Carson’s story.

One of the 62 tornadoes that tore across Alabama last spring ripped Carson’s house, and his life apart.

Carson was injured after being thrown 100 yards. He lost his home. And more importantly, like so many people across this state he lost someone he dearly loved.

What you may not realize is that Carson has the most thankless job in football. He snaps the ball on punts and field goals. He’s a Long snapper. No one will notice if he’s perfect. They’ll only notice if he’s made a mistake.

Despite his injuries, despite his personal tragedies,Carson didn’t make a single bad snap in his career. He did his job to perfection, and he helped his team achieve the ultimate goal.

Carson, would you please stand?

In these tough times, let’s follow the example of people like Carson Tinker.

Let’s pull together in the face of adversity, do our jobs to the best of our ability, and let’s serve the people who sent us here.

Last year the people of Alabama showed all of us how it should be done. They came together, worked hard, were unselfish and it didn’t matter who got credit.

The people didn’t elect us to be caretakers of state government. We are not here to protect the status quo.

We need to do everything we can to give people the opportunity to make their lives better, whether it’s in helping them get a good job, a good education or just being healthier. By working together we can make that happen.

When we leave our time in office, we want to leave Alabama better place than when we arrived. That should be our purpose — and it should be the vision of everyone in this room.

God bless you. And may God bless the Great State of Alabama.
HB56: Hell's foundations are trembling
Wed, 08 Feb 2012 02:50:43 GMT
herding old cats

Probably due to the thermal strain caused by the Lake of Fire freezing over when Republican Gerald Dial proclaimed:

"...Would he [Jesus] vote for the bill? Probably not..."

Was Senator Dial struck blind on the road to Damascus I-59?  Did he hear a voice asking "Gerald, Gerald, why persecuteth thou me" from some carpenter construction worker named Jesús?

Well, something changed his mind...
From the White House Science Fair ...
Tue, 07 Feb 2012 22:24:57 GMT
mooncat

President Obama with Alabama Students at the Science FairFirst off, I think it's cool that the White House is hosting a science fair, period, and this is actually the second year they've done it.  Beyond that, it's ultra cool that a team from Monroeville Junior High School in Monroeville, Alabama got to meet the President and show him their science project.

President Obama stopped to chat with Alabama 8th graders Morgan Ard, Titus Walker, and Robert Knight, III, and got a demo of their robot.  According to the White House pool report, the students maneuvered the remote control robot they designed and built, using its arm to pick up a stuffed bald eagle and hand it to the president (see photo). "Thank you. Nicely done," Obama said as he took the stuffed animal from the robot. He added later, "I think you guys would be outstanding engineers. I can already tell."

It's no accident this science fair was held just a couple of days after the Super Bowl.  The President said, "if we are recognizing athletic achievement, then we should also be recognizing academic achievement and science achievement.  If we invite the team that wins the Super Bowl to the White House, then we need to invite some science fair winners to the White House as well."

Talk about getting your priorities right!  And the science fair winners are actually visiting the White House before the football champs, too.

The President also gave a shout out to the teachers who helped these teams succeed, saying "Teachers matter.  They deserve our support.  And I want to make sure that we are constantly lifting up how important teachers are to making sure that not only you succeed, but this country succeeds."

There are some amazing success stories among the science fair winners at the White House today.  There was a rocketry team from Presidio, Texas, the fourth-poorest school district in the state.  Also a team of young engineers from Detroit, a city that has been hit hard by the economic crisis, who brought their "Fuel Your Future" project to Washington.  And then there was Samantha Garvey, who spent years studying mussel populations in the Long Island Sound.  When she found out she was a semifinalist for the Intel Science Talent Search, her family was living in a homeless shelter.  What tenacious kids!  

President Obama said he was inspired by the kids he met today:

"It’s young people like you that make me so confident that America’s best days are still to come.  When you work and study and excel at what you’re doing in math and science, when you compete in something like this, you’re not just trying to win a prize today.  You’re getting America in shape to win the future.  You’re making sure we have the best, smartest, most skilled workers in the world, so that the jobs and industries of tomorrow take root right here.  You’re making sure we’ll always be home to the most creative entrepreneurs, the most advanced science labs and universities.  You’re making sure America will win the race to the future." 

The President stressed that science and math education must be a high priority and said his budget proposal will include a request for $80 million from Congress for a new Education Department initiative to train more science and math teachers and to get more kids studying those subjects.  He announced an ambitious goal, 1 million more American graduates in science, technology, engineering and math over the next 10 years.

Obama also announced that private industry is getting involved to boost science and math education.  A group of businesses and foundations, led by the Carnegie Corporation, will invest $22 million to help train 100,000 new science and math teachers, to expand innovative math and science programs to 130 sites across the country, and "to make sure we celebrate young scientists and inventors and engineers, not just at the White House, but in every city and every town all across America."

Invoking the memory of Ben Franklin and Thomas Jefferson, Obama reminded the crowd at the White House that America has always been a nation of innovators, tinkerers and inventors.

"It’s in our DNA.  We know that innovation has helped each generation pass down that basic American promise, which is no matter who you are, no matter where you come from, you can make it if you try.  So there’s nothing more important than keeping that promise alive for the next generation.  There’s no priority I have that’s higher than President -- as President than this."

Science, math, engineering and technology.  Our economic future will rest on out-competing the world in those areas.  The next economic boom won't be driven by who has the most creative accountants, but by who can design and build the most innovative products and produce them most efficiently.  

Teaching the next generation.  It's the ultimate investment in the future, and it's money well spent.


The Unicorn Police: No Candy For Poor Folk
Tue, 07 Feb 2012 20:04:04 GMT
countrycat

Florida state GOP legislators have a new unicorn to hunt.  Sick of complaining about the "Nanny State," they're planning to expand it.  The GOP's new target? Birthday cakes and Halloween candy for the poor.  State Legislator Ronda Storms doesn't want Food Stamp money used for candy, soft drinks, or chips: GOP unicorns

Storms said a number of grocery store cashiers told her that customers on food stamps would buy junk food, prime rib, lobster or other extravagant foods. This bill would introduce a little “fiscal responsibility” to the program, she said.

Good heavens.  Does the darn GOP set any policy based on empirical evidence?  This "governing by #$%$ anecdote" is getting way old.  Shadrack McGill defends HB-56 because he "heard" that "truckloads of pregnant women are sneaking across the border" and in Louisiana, someone "heard" that the poor are using their Welfare money at strip clubs.  Note: Rep. Storms has copied the LA bill and folded it into her Food Stamp legislation.

As the Sun Sentinel noted, is this probably not the best way to approach nutrition issues.  Besides the pesky fact that the USDA sets Food Stamp policies and not state legislatures, there's this:

Instead of playing food police (aren't some of these Republicans the same people who yell Big Government and The Nanny State when liberals try this stuff?), here's an idea for our legislators. How about mandating real physical education for all K-12 students, not the bogus online or classroom kind. You know, gym class that involves actual exercise and sweating, forcing our kids to abandon their smart phones and video games.

We all know that kids at all income levels eat a lot of crap and many prefer video games to actively participating in sports.  Will this legislation change any of that?  Probably not.

Let's seriously address the very real national problem of youth obesity.  That takes a lot more commitment & effort than just grandstanding with totally symbolic legislative stunts.

How about nutrition classes, healthier school lunches, no junk food machines in schools, and more community support for local agriculture (like the pilot "Farm to School" program, more local farmers markets?  Eliminate neighborhood food deserts and poor families will have the ability to make healthier food choices.  This is a huge issue in poor neighborhoods:

Access to fresh food has long been a problem in low-income neighborhoods around California. Nearly 4.4 million Californians live where they have limited or no access to healthy food, according to a study by the nonprofit organization Social Compact.

But that's too hard for Rep. Storms & her colleagues to tackle.  Just telling poor folk what they can and can't have is much easier.  They don't have a lot of political power and can't kick up a big fuss - a unicorn that doesn't fight back is a much easier target.

 
Constitutional AND Religious Hypocrisy
Tue, 07 Feb 2012 01:54:33 GMT
DoozeyDem

Watch this video… of Shad McGill. A block of cheese like Lowell Barron is definitely more qualified to be a State Senator than this chap.

 

 
Healthy Small Businesses Build Healthy Communities
Tue, 07 Feb 2012 14:24:02 GMT
countrycat

While Alabama & other states spend millions to chase the prizes of Mercedes plants, steel plants, & large industries, a recent study by LSU and Baylor shows that small businesses appear to contribute more to the health of communities & residents.  Alabama spent  $250 million on the Mercedes package and $195 million to lure ThyssenKrupp. Imagine if only a fraction of that had been spent to help businesses already in Alabama.

From the study:

"What stands out about this research is that we often think of the economic benefits and job growth that small business generates, but we don't think of the social benefits to small communities," said Troy C. Blanchard, Ph.D., lead author and associate professor of sociology at LSU. "This study highlights not only the economic benefits of small business, but its contributions to health and well-being."

Decades ago, big companies meant bigger paychecks and better benefits than local businesses could offer.  But globlazation has contributed to a "race to the bottom" where good middle class jobs have been outsourced to other countries.  Those "big companies" now are often WalMart and low-paying service jobs:

"The old way of thinking was that you wanted to work for a big company because of pension plans, health insurance, dental insurance," said co-author Carson Mencken, Ph.D., professor of sociology in Baylor University's College of Arts & Sciences. "But many of them have moved overseas to cheaper labor markets. So what we see are larger retailers, usually next to interstates, that pay low wages and may not even offer full-time jobs with benefits, but instead hire people to work 30 hours a week. There's a high turnover."

Compare big box retailers' committment to the local community with local businesses, and the differences are stark.  Small business owners care about their community and have a stake in its success:

"It's in their financial interest to take a stake in the community, to make it a place where people want to live and work," Mencken said.
[...]
But small businesses are more likely to support bond issues for health infrastructures, recruit physicians, push for local anti-smoking legislation, promote community health programs and activities and support local farmers' markets, researchers said.
[...]
"Our findings suggest that the rewards of a vibrant small business sector are multi-dimensional," Blanchard said. "In addition to job creation, small businesses yield important non-economic rewards to communities that may improve the health of local residents."

Keep this in mind the next time Alabama goes chasing after giant industrial projects and cheerfully hands over free land, tax abatements, and more goodies.  Those all come at the expense of state and local coffers.  

Certainly we should encourage and welcome new businesses into Alabama, but this study shows that our small businesses are just as vital to the health of our local economies.  Doesn't it just make sense to help the businesses already here grow and thrive?

 
What Remarkable Gall - Millionaire Lobbyist Plays Working Stiff
Mon, 06 Feb 2012 23:24:36 GMT
Dardango

If you watched the Superbowl commercials last night, you probably were as shocked as I was to see the ad for the "Employee Rights Act" (Damn, these guys know how to make poison sound tasty!).

It featured actors portraying mechanics complaining about the union taking money out of their paychecks and how they never got to vote for whether or not to join a union.

 

Now comes word that one of "actors" in this act is Rick Berman, an industry anti-union lobbyist who lives in a 3.3 million dollar home. What gall!

More here:

http://www.republicreport.org/2012/rick-berman-actor/


The Tribes in their sixties, seventies, and eighties now
Mon, 06 Feb 2012 21:57:56 GMT
SaintSatinStain
The powers that be are not passive,
will not listen to civil discourse;
they have to feel uncomfortable and seriously threatened to listen.

We hit the streets instead of
the mattresses.
They will come at us harder, no sheet
music anthems, no willingness to bargain.
They almost control the military, police,
the prisons, and us. We have a little time.

Do it peacefully!

The Tribes in their sixties, seventies,
and eighties now, they can join in with their children and grandchildren do it
one more time.

Deploy peaceful force.

Hit the streets, save capitalism from the capitalists who only think of short term profit, inhumane profit, and the kind of profit that will eventually destroy them.

If the last the only consequence, we could sit back allow; they'll take us down with them.

Deploy
thousand megaton fierce
MLK force.

We dont fight for our lives; we fight
for our children, grandchildren, our civilization, our way,
life based on constitutional principles  and humane.

Fierce Gandhi force.

For my friends who say I inflate
the problem,
I say, remember Sumer, ancient Egypt,
Greece, Alabama, and Rome.

dead.

House Minority Leader Craig Ford Calls for Repeal of HB56
Mon, 06 Feb 2012 18:16:35 GMT
mooncat


Craig FordSounding like a Democrat and an effective minority leader, Rep. Craig Ford says HB56 should be repealed.

“I think what happened last session was a lot of Republicans voted against working-class people and came back in their districts and got hammered,” he said.

Ford said minority Democrats will point out stumbles by the majority GOP, including the anti-illegal immigration law that Ford said should be repealed.

They also will try to remove the sales tax from food.

“We also have to make sure they don’t continue to balance the budgets on the backs of educators and state employees,” said Ford, who wants to repeal the new rolling reserve budgeting law and put the $108 million it would divert from education back into teacher pay raises and retirement.

Individual Democrats have already advocated repeal of HB56 -- both Sen. Billy Beasley and Rep. Pat Todd have actually prefiled bills to repeal it -- but it's important for the Democratic caucus leadership to get on board and push for repeal, not just limited "fixes," "changes," or "tweaks."

Why does it matter, since the Republican-controlled legislature is unlikely to actually repeal it?

Negotiation 101: Never go into a negotiation asking for just what you want, because you'll always have to settle for less than you ask for.  Democrats at both the state and national level have been slow to figure this out, so it's a relief to see Rep. Ford come out and say we need to repeal this law.  There will be no meaningful "tweaks" unless opponents of this law are united in calling for its repeal. 

Religious and social justice groups who are involved in the HB56 pushback know how this works -- none of them are calling for limited "tweaks" of this law.  They've called for repeal since day 1.  And repeal is the moral high ground in this argument.  Democrats should occupy that high ground and be the voice of reason, compassion and justice in the legislature.

Who knows, if the opposition to HB56 is tenacious enough, united enough, and persuasive enough, we might not have to settle for "tweaks" at all.

Mark Feb. 14 on your calendar for the One Heart, One Alabama Rally and Lobby Day to Repeal HB56!
Halftime in America
Mon, 06 Feb 2012 17:15:00 GMT
mooncat

Chrysler's Super Bowl ad:

For some reason, the idea that we all need to pull together gives conservatives fits.

Remember this, when Richard Shelby wanted to let US automakers go under?

"I wouldn't loan them any money. They're either failed or failing," and "I personally doubt [the loans] will ever be paid back."

Chrysler repaid their loans, six years early.

Most of us at this blog supported the bridge loans to US automakers back in late 2008 & early 2009, but did anyone believe they would not only save the American auto industry, but also provide very effective progressive policy talking points for the 2012 election?  I sure didn't.

 


ADP Chair Mark Kennedy: Riley, Hubbard, & Beason to Throw Bentley "Under the Bus"
Mon, 06 Feb 2012 15:11:47 GMT
countrycat

"When Robert Bentley talks about tax reform and not raising new taxes, do you think he's worried about me and you?  No. You compare how much you pay on your house to how much an out of state timber company pays an acre of land..."

That's Alabama Democratic Party chair Mark Kennedy discussing the state's budget in Huntsville Saturday morning.  Speaking at the Mens Democratic Club breakfast, Kennedy contrasted the tax burden of many large industries to Alabama citizens' taxes.  Characteristically, he was blunt in his assessment and clear in his prediction:

"You hear Robert Bentley - when the state is literally sinking into the depths of despair - saying 'no new taxes.'  He's not talking to me and you.  He could care less about what we do.  He's talking about protecting big businesses because he thinks that they aren't going to turn on him like a hungry wolf when he runs for reelection.

In my opinion, Governor Bentley - a nice man - is going to be history. Bob Riley, Hubbard, and Beason are going to be running the state and Bentley's going to be thrown under the bus.

And he just hasn't figured it out yet."

Kennedy makes a good point about Bentley's cluelessness.  The General Fund faces a crippling $400 million shortfall this year - out of a $1.8 billion budget.  According to the Governor, that could mean cuts of 25% to already-underfunded state agencies.  While he stands firm on "no new taxes," Gov. Bentley's early budget proposals included draining the Education Trust Fund (he's abandoned that non-starter) and borrowing $2 billion for highway construction.

Amazingly, House Speaker Mike Hubbard is already predicting that the GOP-controlled legislature won't be able to get the job done:

Hubbard said writing an operating budget for fiscal 2013 may be so hard that lawmakers won't be able to finish in the regular session. If that were to happen, Bentley would have to call them back in special session, which would cost the General Fund an estimated $100,000 to $300,000, depending on how long it lasted. 

If that's true, hopefully hapless Governor Bentley won't be the only elected official losing his job in 2014.

Video clip of Kennedy's remarks is on the flip.


Donate online to the ADP!

Haley Barbour Pardoned and Released A Killer into the Arms of Self-Proclaimed "Anti-Christ"
Sun, 05 Feb 2012 20:48:51 GMT
bluebearcat

This is the most disturbing political story I've seen in many a moon. Haley Barbour's pardons of white convicted murderers stank to high heaven, especially in light of his refusal to do the same for a black woman convicted of stealing $11 unless she'd agree to give up a kidney.

Among those pardons, one truly stands out for us here at Left in Alabama: David Glenn Gatlin.

Gatlin's crime was horrific. He drove nine hours to shoot his estranged wife in the head in cold blood while she held their infant son in her arms. The son survived, but he was discovered by police in a pool of his mother's blood. Gatlin also shot a family friend, who survived.

Gatlin commited the crime in 1993 and has been released after serving less than twenty years for such a heinous crime. Where did Gatlin end up?

Alabaster, Alabama. In a quiet residential neighborhood.

Gatlin is staying with a man named Earnest Jacks, who says he believes in "redemption." That's not enough for me to be OK with a man who murdered someone in cold blood and hasn't yet made so much as an apology living in my state, but Jacks should have stopped there. But he doesn't.

In essence, I am the Anti-Christ. But the Anti-Christ is not a bad person.

Jacks also has a plan for social security and it involves genocide against a certain group of people living in Florida and Arizona.

I will solve social security. How I will do that is I will bomb Florida and Arizona where there's thousands of them.

(Reporter) And God told you to do this?

(Jacks) Yes.

Jacks also has a plan to solve illegal immigration but Fox 6 thankfully didn't give him that platform.

Haley Barbour is responsible for releasing this despicable man into the arms of another person whose ideas seem just as sick as his past actions. There is evil in this world and Haley Barbour has apparently seen fit to unleash it on Alabama.


Sunday Open Thread
Sun, 05 Feb 2012 18:21:33 GMT
mooncat

Do you like our beautiful new background photo, courtesy of the very talented Dardango?  It's fitting that the skies above the State Capitol are shown as partly cloudy since the 2012 legislative session kicks off Tuesday.  It's more likely to be stormy than fair. 

A few noteworthy items:

•  Prosecutors in the Alabama Attorney General's Office have subpoenaed Ag. Department records from Ron Sparks' tenure as Ag. Commissioner. "Many of the items covered by the subpoena were documents having to do with Sparks specifically."  Is the Hubbard/Riley wing of the GOP trying for a twofer, perhaps?  Make life difficult for Sparks and embarrass Robert Bentley at the same time.

• AEA head Henry Mabry: Charter schools aren't cheap and they don't work!  Be prepared to say that early, often and loud for the next few months.

• Unfortunately, we're number 1: Alabama has the weakest cockfighting laws in the nation.

•  Democrats we can do without: Former Alabama State Rep. Ken Guin (D) is now lobbying for the cockfighting industry. 

•  GOP Math: Alabama's General Fund is about $400 million short.  Gov. Bentley says "everything is on the table" -- everything, that is, except increasing revenue.  Bentley vows to veto that. 


ADP Chair Mark Kennedy Discusses His Encounter With The "Tinfoil Hat" Crowd & Hugh McInnish
Sat, 04 Feb 2012 20:39:12 GMT
countrycat

Alabama Democratic Party Chair Mark Kennedy rocked the house this morning at the Democratic Men's Club breakfast in Huntsville.  Showing his trademark wit & candor, Judge Kennedy began with a discussion of a local man's determination to tilt at windmills.  Judge Kennedy attended Hugh McInnish's "birther" press conference Thursday in Montgomery.ADP Chair Mark Kennedy

McInnish's presser about his birth certificate "