Sunday, November 30, 2014

@8:55, 11/29/14

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1
N.Y. / Region

For New Tappan Zee, Questions Persist Over How High the Tolls Will Climb

By JOSEPH BERGER | Nov 27th 2014
The discount afforded by one of the New York City area’s great travel bargains — crossing the Hudson River on the Tappan Zee Bridge — is likely to shrink, but no one can say by how much.
Bridges and Tunnels; Tolls; Series; Infrastructure (Public Works) 

The New York State Throughway Authority issues the bonds that will pay most of the cost of the Tappan Zea bridge.
Their income stream is stable.

2
Business Day

E.U. Parliament Passes Measure to Break Up Google in Symbolic Vote

By JAMES KANTER | Nov 27th 2014
While the vote poses no immediate threat to the company, it symbolizes the growing resentment in Europe toward the American technology titan.
Antitrust Laws and Competition Issues; Computers and the Internet; Privacy

Google will remain unbroken.

3
Opinion

Gay Men Should Be Allowed to Give Blood

By THE EDITORIAL BOARD | Nov 27th 2014
The backward ban is out of step with medical research.
Blood; Homosexuality and Bisexuality; Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome; Editorials; Blood Donation; Tests (Medical) 

The question is the perception of risk rather than the risk itself.

4
Opinion

In Peru, a Fight Over Land Rights

By THE EDITORIAL BOARD | Nov 27th 2014
Indigenous communities are standing up to loggers in a country that is one of the deadliest for environmentalists and activists.
Logging Industry; Indigenous People; Forests and Forestry; Editorials; Global Warming; Land Use Policies; Human Rights and Human Rights Violations 

The problem is with land title.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_registration

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Land_titling

5
Your Money

Retirees Turn to Virtual Villages for Mutual Support

By CONSTANCE GUSTKE | Nov 28th 2014
The villages allow older people to stay at home by providing services and social connections.
Retirement; Elderly 

I like the idea.
I do not know how to gather a satisfactory circle.

6
The Upshot

Oil Prices Are Plunging. Here’s Who Wins and Who Loses.

By NEIL IRWIN | Nov 28th 2014
OPEC’s decision not to cut back production helps drivers and airline passengers, and will have ripple effects throughout the world economy.
Oil (Petroleum) and Gasoline; United States Economy; Economic Conditions and Trends; Wind Power; Solar Energy; Alternative and Renewable Energy; Commodities; Greenhouse Gas Emissions 

7
World

U.S.-Led Raid Frees 8 Qaeda Hostages From a Yemeni Cave

By ERIC SCHMITT | Nov 25th 2014

Public relations junk.

8
N.Y. / Region

Anger Upstate Over Power Plan for New York City

By JOSEPH BERGER | Nov 27th 2014
Hudson Valley residents worry that proposals to add high-voltage electric transmission lines will cause disruptions including spoiled views and loss of homes and property.
Electric Light and Power; Eminent Domain 

Easements and rights of way  are senior to property ownership.
Semi rural areas should know the law.

9
Opinion

Detroit’s Pension Benefits

Nov 27th 2014

Detroit is still bankrupt.

10
World

Jerusalem, the Holy City of Separation

By JODI RUDOREN | Nov 26th 2014
Jerusalem, in Hebrew, shares the root word for peace, shalom. But the holy city is becoming ever-more divided among Israelis and Palestinians.
Temple Mount (Jerusalem); Palestinians 

Two parties fighting over purity.

11
Arts

At Auctions, Russian Oligarchs Start to Hedge Their Bets

By SCOTT REYBURN | Nov 28th 2014
At recent sales in London, auction houses struggled to sell top Russian works of art. Some dealers said that the sluggish sales were a reflection of what's going on in Russia.
Art; Culture (Arts); Auctions; Ruble (Currency); Economic Conditions and Trends; Embargoes and Sanctions; Collectors and Collections 

The Russian economy is not happy nor are collectors of Russian art in Russia happy.

Money and people have been running to London. 

The political system in Russia is changing.
I doubt they will try socialism again.  
I hope for regulated capitalism.  
Robber barons work only in times of labor shortage.  
I do not like feudalism.

12
Science

Panel Rejects Sternest F.D.A. Warning for Steroid Shots

By SABRINA TAVERNISE | Nov 25th 2014
Recommending the toughest federal alert would have signaled to doctors that the risks of use outweighed any potential therapeutic benefit for patients.
Steroids; Neck; Back (Human Body Part); Pain-Relieving Drugs; Labeling andLabels; Pain 

There is money in fraud.

13
 

What If We’re Wrong About Depression?

By ANNA NORTH | Nov 26th 2014
Some researchers say we need new ways of thinking about depression entirely — and that one day, therapy could start with a blood test.
Depression (Mental); Mental Health and Disorders; Psychiatry and Psychiatrists; Research; Therapy and Rehabilitation 

"Dr. Miller also noted that only about 20 to 30 percent of depressed patients show high levels of inflammation. These patients are also less likely than others to respond well to current forms of treatment for depression.
Indeed, what many researchers seem to agree on is that depression may not be one illness at all. It’s “probably the case that it’s not a single disorder,” said Dr. Hollon. “It’s probably the fever of modern psychiatry — a lot of different things can cause it.”"

14
World

Sierra Leone to Eclipse Liberia in Ebola Cases

By RICK GLADSTONE | Nov 26th 2014
The World Health Organization reported more than 600 new cases of Ebola in the week that ended Sunday, more than half of them in Sierra Leone.
Ebola Virus 

These numbers are inconsistent.

http://www.cdc.gov/vhf/ebola/outbreaks/2014-west-africa/case-counts.html

Countries with Widespread Transmission

CountryTotal CasesLaboratory-Confirmed CasesTotal Deaths
Guinea213418501260
Liberia716827273016
Sierra Leone659954411398
Total15901100185674

http://www.who.int/csr/disease/ebola/situation-reports/en/

http://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/10665/144498/1/roadmapsitrep_26Nov2014_eng.pdf?ua=1

15
Arts

Ohio Exhibitions Highlight Ferdinand Brader

By EVE M. KAHN | Nov 27th 2014
Three exhibitions in Canton, Ohio, spotlight the work of Ferdinand A. Brader, a 19th-century artist known for his pencil drawings of farms in Pennsylvania and Ohio.
Art; Antiques; Collectors and Collections; Telephones and Telecommunications 

I don't have the laborers to farm that way.

Western Electric built telephones.  The later ones are better.

Fiber optic connections carry much more data.
 
16
Opinion

Get Real, Boris Johnson!

By ROGER COHEN | Nov 27th 2014
London’s mayor, an American citizen, goes mano a mano with the Internal Revenue Service. He should give up and pay up.
Taxation; Tax Evasion 

I am no real help on tax law.  
Get professional help.
It is better to pay directly than indirectly.
Paying is unavoidable.

17
World

A Nuclear Deal for U.S. and Iran Slips Away Again

By DAVID E. SANGER, MICHAEL R. GORDON and PETER BAKER | Nov 24th 2014
Negotiations carried on in secret for months, but despite a thaw between the governments’ top envoys, the end result is only another extension.
Nuclear Weapons; Nuclear Energy; United States International Relations 

The Revolutionary Guard owns the nuclear program.
The Revolutionary Guard is not the Government of Iran.
The U.S. is talking to people who cannot say yes.

18
U.S.

Minnesota: 2 Accused of Trying to Aid Terror Group

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS | Nov 25th 2014

The security establishment is fighting for money.

19
Business Day

Shops on Wheels, but the Goods Aren’t Sold From the Trunk

By TAMARA BEST | Nov 26th 2014
Mobile businesses are increasing in cities across the United States, as entrepreneurs embrace the lower overhead and freedom to change locations.
Food Trucks and Vendors; Shopping and Retail; Small Business; Start-ups; Regulation and Deregulation of Industry 

I do not want to run such a business.  
I could set one up if we had a retail person to run it.


20
World

Stuck Russian Plane Gets a Push, Possibly Symbolic, From Passengers

By DAVID M. HERSZENHORN | Nov 26th 2014
Dozens of passengers in Igarka, 100 miles north of the Arctic Circle, climbed out on Wednesday ostensibly to help push the aircraft onto the runway.
Airlines and Airplanes; Video Recordings, Downloads and Streaming 

A good story spoiled by good reporting.

"Never underestimate people in large numbers."
Posted by at No comments:

Friday, November 28, 2014

@23:10, 11/27/14

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1
World

A Tilt Toward NATO in Ukraine as Parliament Meets

By DAVID M. HERSZENHORN | Nov 27th 2014
At the convening of a new Parliament in Ukraine, President Petro O. Poroshenko urged the repeal of the country’s nonaligned status and a move toward joining NATO.
Legislatures and Parliaments 

The U.S. should play older brother to Ukraine.
I would welcome them to NATO.
I hope our state department play the necessary diplomatic game.
I have no wish to add to the radioactive trash.

2
Business Day

Solar and Wind Energy Start to Win on Price vs. Conventional Fuels

By DIANE CARDWELL | Nov 23rd 2014
They are competitive with some power some of the time.
All the profit is in subsidies.
I would like to play with the problem again.

3
World

Mexican Leader, Facing Protests, Promises to Overhaul Policing

By RANDAL C. ARCHIBOLD | Nov 27th 2014
President Enrique Peña Nieto’s plan makes forces answerable to state and federal authorities, though observers questioned the credibility of a president who has had scandals of his own.
Police Brutality, Misconduct and Shootings; Organized Crime; Corruption (Institutional) 

 Enrique Peña Nieto’s problem is the forgiveness of sin.
An act is reversible in concept and in consequences in Mexico.
Change this bit of culture and the corruption will quickly vanish.

4
The Upshot

Election Was Rough for Democrats. It Was Worse for West Virginia Democrats.

By DEREK WILLIS | Nov 24th 2014
The switch started years ago, and now West Virginia seems to have completed the journey from being a Democratic-dominated state to a Republican one.
Midterm Elections (2014); Elections, House of Representatives; Elections, State Legislature; Elections, Senate 

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/28/opinion/paul-krugman-pollution-and-politics.html

The union situation in West Virginia has changed. The Union miners have retired and their children have moved away.  I do not expect to be comfortable there soon.
I expect I can gather a like minded group.  We will not be part of a majority.

5
Opinion

A Optimistic Realist Tours Earth's Age of Humans

By ANDREW C. REVKIN | Nov 26th 2014
A lyrical nature writer explains her optimistic view of the deepening human imprint on the Earth.
DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid); Endangered and Extinct Species; Environment; Genetic Engineering; Sustainable Living; Wildlife Sanctuaries 

Tell me numbers along with the dreams.

6
The Upshot

Under Pressure From Uber, Taxi Medallion Prices are Plummeting

By JOSH BARRO | Nov 27th 2014
Market data suggests that the taxi business, which has undergone little change over many decades, is in the midst of a revolution.
Taxicabs and Taxicab Drivers; Car Services and Livery Cabs; Regulation and Deregulation of Industry 

The T.L.C. will fight.
Uber is helping them fight.

7
Business Day

Obama Threatens to Veto $440 Billion Tax Deal

By JONATHAN WEISMAN | Nov 25th 2014
The president, saying that an emerging agreement to extend a number of existing tax cuts favored corporations over the middle class, delivered a setback to negotiations that have already been divisive.
Corporate Taxes; Tax Credits, Deductions and Exemptions; Vetoes (US); United States Politics and Government; United States Economy 

"“The president would veto the proposed deal because it would provide permanent tax breaks to help well-connected corporations while neglecting working families,” said Jennifer Friedman, a White House spokeswoman."
http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/28/opinion/paul-krugman-pollution-and-politics.html

8
Arts

A Son Seeks Art Looted by the East Germans

By TOM MASHBERG | Nov 27th 2014
Between 1973 and 1989, the East German police seized more than 200,000 objects in hundreds of raids, according to experts and archives, and some are reclaiming the art.
Arts and Antiquities Looting; Collectors and Collections; Search and Seizure; Holocaust and the Nazi Era; Cold War Era; Art 

To paraphrase John D. Rockefeller Jr.; The German Peoples Republic never broke its laws.  They made a deal of law before they took actions.
Provenance is much argued in the courts.

9
The Upshot

Studies Back Up That Few Elections Are Swung by Voter ID Laws

By NATE COHN | Nov 26th 2014
The Brennan Center for Justice points to large numbers of voters who can be disenfranchised, but that doesn’t mean many election results will change.
Voter Registration and Requirements; Identification Devices; Elections 

We notice that the elections are not litigated.
I have no desire to study the studies.
Nate Cohn's honor only matters to his repute as a statistician.

10
Magazine

The Mine Disaster That Shook Turkey

By SUZY HANSEN | Nov 26th 2014
A mine fire in May killed 301 men, making it the worst industrial disaster in Turkish history. This is the story of two men who lived through it.
Soma, Turkey, Mining Disaster (2014); Mines and Mining; Explosions (Accidental); Coal; Labor and Jobs 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Slavery_in_the_Ottoman_Empire

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/How_Green_Was_My_Valley

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1926_United_Kingdom_general_strike

http://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:Search&search=coal+strike&profile=default
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Valley_of_Fear

11
Opinion

In Peru, a Fight Over Land Rights

By THE EDITORIAL BOARD | Nov 27th 2014
Indigenous communities are standing up to loggers in a country that is one of the deadliest for environmentalists and activists.
Land Use Policies; Logging Industry; Forests and Forestry; Human Rights and Human Rights Violations; Indigenous People; Global Warming 

"We has met the enemy and he is us"

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Henry_Morgan#Burning_of_Panama_and_the_loss_of_English_suppor
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manila_galleon
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spanish_conquest_of_the_Inca_Empire#Aftermath
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shining_Path

12
World

U.S.-Led Raid Frees 8 Qaeda Hostages From a Yemeni Cave

By ERIC SCHMITT | Nov 25th 2014
The freed captives were six Yemeni citizens, a Saudi and an Ethiopian, who were unharmed, Yemeni officials said in a statement.
Kidnapping and Hostages; Rescues; Terrorism; United States Defense and Military Forces

"The fighting has led to fears of an escalating sectarian war. The Houthis’ ascendance has angered Al Qaeda, which views Shiites as heretics and the Houthis as pawns of Iran. Houthi fighters have been making advances outside Sana, taking over cities, apparently with the agreement of the local authorities."

The U.S. military will not take no for an answer.

13
Business Day

Toyota Widens Recall of Cars With Takata Airbags

By JONATHAN SOBLE | Nov 27th 2014
The Japanese automaker and its minicar subsidiary, Daihatsu, said they were recalling a total of about 85,000 vehicles, all outside the United States.
Automobile Safety Features and Defects; Traffic Accidents and Safety; Small Cars (Compact, Subcompact and Microcars)

Japan does not need a worse image.

14
N.Y. / Region

Anger Upstate Over Power Plan for New York City

By JOSEPH BERGER | Nov 27th 2014
Hudson Valley residents worry that proposals to add high-voltage electric transmission lines will cause disruptions including spoiled views and loss of homes and property.
Electric Light and Power; Eminent Domain

We could put nuclear reactors in Brooklyn.
It is all about the .01%

http://www.nytimes.com/2014/11/28/opinion/paul-krugman-pollution-and-politics.html

The property next to the right of way is cheap.

15
Science

Panel Rejects Sternest F.D.A. Warning for Steroid Shots

By SABRINA TAVERNISE | Nov 25th 2014
Recommending the toughest federal alert would have signaled to doctors that the risks of use outweighed any potential therapeutic benefit for patients.
Steroids; Neck; Back (Human Body Part); Pain-Relieving Drugs; Labeling and Labels; Pain

If it is ineffective it should not be used.
we can know.

16
Opinion

Detroit’s Pension Benefits

Nov 27th 2014
The executive director of the National Conference on Public Employee Retirement Systems says pensions should not be seen as a threat to the city.
Pensions and Retirement Plans; Bankruptcies; Government Employees

Detroit needs an income.
Without a significant income the city is bankrupt.

17
Technology

A Little Abracadabra on the Phone

By KIT EATON | Nov 26th 2014
Numerous apps teach you how to fool your targets, and some even play a role in the trickery.
Mobile Applications; Smartphones; Magic and Magicians; Android (Operating System); iOS (Operating System)

Quick call is interesting and would be more so if I used Ios or Android.
Magic tricks can wait for another time.

http://slashdot.org/index2.pl?fhfilter=regin

Advocatus Diaboli writes The Regin malware, whose existence was first reported by the security firm Symantec on Sunday, is among the most sophisticated ever discovered by researchers. Symantec compared Regin to Stuxnet, a state-sponsored malware program developed by the U.S. and Israel to sabotage computers at an Iranian nuclear facility. Sources familiar with internal investigations at Belgacom and the European Union have confirmed to The Intercept that the Regin malware was found on their systems after they were compromised, linking the spy tool to the secret GCHQ and NSA operations.
 
https://firstlook.org/theintercept/2014/11/24/secret-regin-malware-belgacom-nsa-gchq/

I do not want to dig further.

18
Automobiles

Wheelies: The ‘Fix it Again, Tony’ Edition

Nov 26th 2014
Fiat announces an ad campaign that plays to an old, derogatory acronym; G.M. announces a less expensive way to use lightweight aluminum in vehicle production.
Automobiles; Automobile Safety Features and Defects

The lonely repairman is back.
Car sales must be bad everywhere.

19
U.S.

Minnesota: 2 Accused of Trying to Aid Terror Group

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS | Nov 25th 2014
Two Minnesota men have been charged with conspiracy to provide material support to the Islamic State group.
Terrorism

Making a case should not be easy.
I can guess that the F.B.I. is trying to watch.
They may be much more skillful than they appear.

20
Fashion & Style

Being a Confident Redhead (Without Eyebrow Angst)

By COURTNEY RUBIN | Nov 26th 2014
A new website aims to help redheads with pesky cosmetic quandaries.
Cosmetics and Toiletries; Hair; Skin

I do not use any of these products.
Use what you wish.  I will like the result.

Siblings and other relations are keeping me busy.

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Posted by at No comments:

Thursday, November 27, 2014

@2:11, 11/26/14

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1
U.S.

Arkansas: Another Judge Rejects Marriage Ban

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS | Nov 25th 2014
Judge Kristine Baker of Federal District Court struck down Arkansas’ same-sex marriage ban on Tuesday, which could pave the way for county clerks to resume issuing licenses.
Same-Sex Marriage, Civil Unions and Domestic Partnerships; Marriages; Decisions and Verdicts; Constitutional Amendments; Supreme Courts (State) 

The legal situation in Arkansas has me confused.

2
Automobiles

Mazda Recalls 100,000 Cars for Defect in Tire Pressure Sensor

By CHRISTOPHER JENSEN | Nov 25th 2014
The automaker says some 2014-15 Mazda 6s may not alert the driver when all four tires are low; Land Rover and Mini also recall vehicles.
Automobiles; Recalls and Bans of Products; Automobile Safety Features and Defects 

The automakers are saving more money than they should.
The regulators would like to limit demand with price.

3
N.Y. / Region

With Ad, Neighbors Zero In on Bill de Blasio in Truck Ramp Dispute

By MICHAEL M. GRYNBAUM | Nov 25th 2014
The dispute centers on an unused garbage transfer station on the shore of the East River, which is set to be reopened soon, over residents’ objections.
Waste Materials and Disposal; Playgrounds 

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Municipal_Asphalt_Plant

This is an ancient fight.  
Realestate should lose to the city this time.

4
World

As Bombing Toll Rises, Afghan Villagers Direct Anger at Government

By JOSEPH GOLDSTEIN | Nov 24th 2014
Villagers of Yahya Khel, where a bomber killed 61 people Sunday, expressed anger at the Taliban but also at a national government they felt had offered them little.
Afghanistan War (2001- ); Bombs and Explosives; Civilian Casualties; Terrorism 

The U.S. military has bad taste in governments.

5
N.Y. / Region

When Their Workday Ends, More Fathers Are Heading Into the Kitchen

By RACHEL L. SWARNS | Nov 23rd 2014
As parents juggle the demands of their jobs with the desire to prepare home-cooked meals, men are increasingly in front of the stove.
Work-Life Balance; Parenting; Cooking and Cookbooks; Men and Boys; Social Conditions and Trends 

I cook in self defense.

6
U.S.

FBI Declassifies Additional Portions of 2010 Inspector General Report on Problems With Exigent Letters

By CHARLIE SAVAGE | Nov 23rd 2014
In response to a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit filed by The New York Times, the FBI has declassified additional portions of a 2010 inspector general report about “exigent letters” and other informal requests for telephone records. The new version contains about 125 words or passages that were previously redacted.
Inspectors General; Telephones and Telecommunications 

The F.B.I. is trying to be "not guilty".

7
Your Money

When It Comes to Holiday Shopping, Not All Plastic Is Equal

By ANN CARRNS | Nov 25th 2014
To keep your money safe from hackers, many experts recommend using a credit card instead of a debit card both online and in stores.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday (Shopping); Personal Finances; Identity Theft; Credit Cards; Debit Cards 

My choice is to use cash.
Yule is for the show.  I do not spend big money.

8
U.S.

Rhode Island Investigating Former State Attorney General

By ERIC LIPTON | Nov 21st 2014
A former Rhode Island attorney general is being investigated on suspicion of lobbying former colleagues without registering as a lobbyist.
Lobbying and Lobbyists; United States Politics and Government; Attorneys General 

The case is bogus.
Attorney general is not a policy making position.

9
U.S.

Utah: Deal Scraps Parts of Immigration Law

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS | Nov 25th 2014
The state has agreed to scrap key provisions in its 2011 immigration law and put limits on another in a settlement with the American Civil Liberties Union.
Immigration and Emigration; Civil Rights and Liberties; Illegal Immigration 

Good.  Immigration status is not a state responsibility.

10
World

With Borscht and Rifle Scopes, Volunteers Power Ukraine Forces

By ANDREW E. KRAMER | Nov 22nd 2014 

It is not the first time.
Ukraine should have been brought into NATO in 1992.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ukraine
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galicia_%28Eastern_Europe%29
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ukrainian_Galician_Army
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Ukrainian_People%27s_Republic
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Declaration_of_Ukrainian_Independence,_1941
11
N.Y. / Region

Unpredictable East Coast Storm Could Snarl Thanksgiving Travel

By MARC SANTORA | Nov 25th 2014
More than 20 million people live in the area under a winter storm warning, and some parts of New York and New Jersey could see 10 inches of snow on Wednesday.
Snow and Snowstorms; Weather 

http://forecast.weather.gov/MapClick.php?CityName=New+York&state=NY&site=OKX&textField1=40.7198&textField2=-73.993&e=1#.VHYtymccbSE

  • This Afternoon Sleet. Steady temperature around 33. Wind chill values between 20 and 25. Breezy, with a north wind around 22 mph, with gusts as high as 32 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. Little or no sleet accumulation expected.
  • Tonight Snow and sleet before 10pm, then a chance of snow between 10pm and 1am. Low around 32. Wind chill values between 20 and 25. Breezy, with a northwest wind 19 to 24 mph decreasing to 11 to 16 mph after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 80%. New snow and sleet accumulation of 1 to 2 inches possible.
  • Thanksgiving Day A slight chance of rain and snow showers before 2pm, then a slight chance of rain showers between 2pm and 5pm, then a slight chance of rain and snow showers after 5pm. Cloudy, with a high near 40. Wind chill values between 25 and 35. Northwest wind 9 to 11 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
http://www.goes.noaa.gov/ECIR4.html

12
Arts

William H. Scheide, 100, Philanthropist, Is Dead

By WILLIAM YARDLEY | Nov 23rd 2014
Mr. Scheide devoted his life to philanthropic and artistic pursuits striking in their range and depth.
Deaths (Obituaries); Libraries and Librarians; Philanthropy; Music 

"Not long ago, his wife said, she tried to persuade him to switch his party affiliation so that he could vote in a local election. His sympathies, after all, seemed more aligned with the Democratic Party. But he refused, citing his respect for his party’s most admired leader.
“He said, ‘I could never do that to Lincoln,’ ” Mrs. Scheide recalled."

My grandfather took the same position.  He chocked on Watergate.
My parents favored F.D.R.
The red diaper group soured me on revolution. 

13
U.S.

Nevada Lawmaker, Ira Hansen, Is Forced From Leadership Post Over Remarks on Minorities

By KIMBERLEY McGEE and ADAM NAGOURNEY | Nov 24th 2014
A Reno newspaper disclosed that Mr. Hansen, the speaker-elect of the Assembly, had written published remarks full of derogatory remarks about blacks, women, Latinos and gays.
Blacks; Hispanic-Americans; Homosexuality and Bisexuality; Women and Girls; Discrimination; Minorities; State Legislatures 

"Mr. Hansen boasted of keeping a Confederate flag in his office. “I fly it proudly in honor and in memory of a great cause and my brave ancestors who fought for that cause,” he wrote."

He is down but not out.

14
Magazine

The Business Tycoons of Airbnb

By WILLIAM ALDEN | Nov 25th 2014
The sharing economy is supposed to offer a new kind of capitalism for regular folks. But a class of well-heeled professionals are outperforming the amateurs.
Economic Conditions and Trends; Labor and Jobs; Real Estate and Housing (Residential)

The tax collectors care about their bit.

15
Business Day

Solar and Wind Energy Start to Win on Price vs. Conventional Fuels

By DIANE CARDWELL | Nov 23rd 2014
The cost of electricity from wind and solar power plants has plummeted, making it cheaper than coal or natural gas in some places.
Alternative and Renewable Energy; Wind Power; Solar Energy; Natural Gas; Coal; Energy and Power

The subsidies still carry alternative energy.
The coal interests will fight the subsidies.
Coal would like to be subsidized like oil.

16
Business Day

A Defense Against Hostile Takeovers Develops a Downside

By STEVEN DAVIDOFF SOLOMON | Nov 25th 2014
The “poison put” began as a well-intentioned way to protect debt holders, but like any good idea, it got a little out of hand, writes Steven Davidoff Solomon in the Deal Professor.
Boards of Directors; Credit and Debt; Mergers, Acquisitions and Divestitures; Shareholder Rights and Activism

Due diligence will always be required.
Managers do not like to lose their incomes.

Brain dead investors are just bait. 

17
World

Nigeria: Fish Vendors Attacked

By AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE | Nov 23rd 2014
Boko Haram militants have killed 48 fish vendors in northeastern Nigeria, near the border with Chad, the leader of the local fish traders’ association said Sunday.
Fishing, Commercial; Terrorism; Murders, Attempted Murders and Homicides

Boko Haram is suicidal.

18
Arts

Toward a Truth That Defies Precision

By ANTHONY TOMMASINI | Nov 21st 2014

19 
Science

F.D.A. Approves Hysingla, a Powerful Painkiller

By RONI CARYN RABIN | Nov 20th 2014

 More poppy addiction.

20

U.S.

Bill Walker, Next Governor for Alaska, Traversed Unlikely Path

By KIRK JOHNSON | Nov 24th 2014
Mr. Walker had no party, little money and almost no chance of victory just two months before Election Day.
Midterm Elections (2014); Elections, Governors 

The first problem is election.

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + 

10:15

1
World

U.S.-Led Raid Rescues Eight Held in Yemen

By ERIC SCHMITT | Nov 25th 2014
The freed captives were six Yemeni citizens, a Saudi and an Ethiopian, who were unharmed, Yemeni officials said in a statement.
Terrorism; United States Defense and Military Forces; Kidnapping and Hostages

Our propaganda is not much different from theirs.

2
U.S.

Nevada Lawmaker, Ira Hansen, Is Forced From Leadership Post Over Remarks on Minorities

By KIMBERLEY McGEE and ADAM NAGOURNEY | Nov 24th 2014

Ira Hansen is not out.

3
Automobiles

Mazda Recalls 100,000 Cars for Defect in Tire Pressure Sensor

By CHRISTOPHER JENSEN | Nov 25th 2014

The automakers are trying to avoid blame.
The Government put the prices up.
4 
U.S.

Arkansas: Another Judge Rejects Marriage Ban

By THE ASSOCIATED PRESS | Nov 25th 2014

Fort Sumpter  is not armed.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fort_Sumter

5
N.Y. / Region

For New York City Officers, Drawing Guns Is Based on Discretion, Not Rules

By AL BAKER | Nov 25th 2014
After the shooting death of a man in the Louis H. Pink Houses in Brooklyn, the notion of officers patrolling public housing complexes with guns unholstered strikes some as troubling.
Police Brutality, Misconduct and Shootings; Firearms

The police must be active members of their communities.
These police are occupying armies. 

6
World

As Bombing Toll Rises, Afghan Villagers Direct Anger at Government

By JOSEPH GOLDSTEIN | Nov 24th 2014


7
Magazine

The Business Tycoons of Airbnb

By WILLIAM ALDEN | Nov 25th 2014


8
World

Jerusalem, the Holy City of Separation

By JODI RUDOREN | Nov 26th 2014
Jerusalem, in Hebrew, shares the root word for peace, shalom. But the holy city is becoming ever-more divided among Israelis and Palestinians.
Temple Mount (Jerusalem); Palestinians

All the residents want ethnic cleansing of the others.

9
Business Day

E.U. Investment Plan Aims for Billions to Spur Economy

By JAMES KANTER | Nov 25th 2014
The idea is to finance big projects and small and midsize businesses. But most of the money would have to come from private lenders.
Infrastructure (Public Works) 

I do not see how this plan works.

10
Opinion

Committed to Carbon Goals

By JOE NOCERA | Nov 24th 2014
The chief executive of NRG Energy is making his company part of the solution.
Greenhouse Gas Emissions; Alternative and Renewable Energy; Global Warming; Coal 

Joe Nocera should read the original sources.

These were seen as politically possible numbers in 1980.
 
11
U.S.

U.S. Wants Teacher Training Programs to Track How Graduates’ Students Perform

By MOTOKO RICH | Nov 25th 2014
The Department of Education is seeking to require states to develop rating systems for teacher preparation programs that could affect who receives federal grants.
Tests and Examinations; Education (K-12); Teachers and School Employees; Education

Everyone wants someone else to plead guilty.

12
Opinion

A Problem Beyond Mr. Hagel

By THE EDITORIAL BOARD | Nov 24th 2014
The defense secretary resigned, but the Obama administration’s core military problem is a national security policy that has been too incoherent and shifting.
United States Defense and Military Forces; Editorials; United States Politics and Government; United States International Relations

National security policy has not been under presidential control for half a century.
Truman ceded it to the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

13
N.Y. / Region

With Ad, Neighbors Zero In on Bill de Blasio in Truck Ramp Dispute

By MICHAEL M. GRYNBAUM | Nov 25th 2014
The dispute centers on an unused garbage transfer station on the shore of the East River, which is set to be reopened soon, over residents’ objections.
Waste Materials and Disposal; Playgrounds

Blame the victim.

14
Business Day

A Defense Against Hostile Takeovers Develops a Downside

By STEVEN DAVIDOFF SOLOMON | Nov 26th 2014

The Poison put is working as designed.

15
Magazine

Do Online Death Threats Count as Free Speech?

By EMILY BAZELON | Nov 25th 2014
After decades of declaring true threats as an exception to the rule against criminalizing speech, the Supreme Court will consider whether threats on social media count, too.
Freedom of Speech and Expression; Computers and the Internet; Domestic Violence; Social Media; Stalking (Crime); Threats and Threatening Messages 

Yes.

Both these people should be involuntarily hospitalized.
Talk therapy is the only thing I can think of that would actually help these people.

16
Opinion

Subcontracting Repression in the West Bank and Gaza

By SABRIEN AMROV and ALAA TARTIR | Nov 26th 2014
Palestinian security forces were supposed to help build a state. Instead, they’ve become a tool of the occupation.
Israeli Settlements; Palestinians; Police

The Palestinian forces are trying to build a Palestinian state. 

17
Business Day

O.E.C.D. Calls for Fiscal and Monetary Measures to Spur E.U. Growth

By DAVID JOLLY | Nov 25th 2014
Leaders of the bloc should consider allowing more time for nations to bring government spending in line with European rules, the group’s chief said.
European Sovereign Debt Crisis (2010- ); Deflation (Economics); Gross National Product (GNP)

http://krugman.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/11/26/keynes-is-slowly-winning/

Keynes Is Slowly Winning

Back in 2010, I had a revelation about just how bad economic policy was about to get; I read the OECD Economic Outlook, which called not just for fiscal austerity but for interest rate hikes — 350 basis points on the Fed funds rate by the end of 2011! — because, well, because.
Now, the OECD is calling for fiscal and monetary stimulus in Europe. It’s not the same people; the OECD has a new chief economist, Catherine L. Mann, whose excellent research has always been pragmatic in orientation (and who wrote her dissertation, way back when, under Rudi Dornbusch and yours truly.) But by selecting Ms. Mann the OECD was making a statement, and my sense is that the ground is shifting all around the world.
It has taken a while. In early 2013, with the infamous growth cliff at 90 percent debt and the case for expansionary austerity collapsing, many of us thought we had the austerians on the run. But we underestimated the extent to which officials and, to some extent, the news media had a professional stake in the positions they had staked out over the previous three years, and their willingness to seize on anything — slight recovery in southern Europe, a pickup in the UK when the government stopped tightening for a while, Latvia — as supposed vindication of views that were, in reality, overwhelmingly at odds with the evidence.
This still goes on. Simon Wren-Lewis complains, and rightly, about “mediamacro” — and his government has learned nothing. The Bundesbank is still what it always was.
But the hawks seem in retreat at the Fed; Mario Draghi (another MIT Ph.D.) sounds an awful lot like Janet Yellen; the whole way we’re discussing Japan is very much on Keynesian turf. Three and a half years ago Businessweek was declaring that expansionary austerian Alberto Alesina was the new Keynes; now it tells us that Keynes is the new Keynes. And we have people like Paul Singer complaining about the “Krugmanization” of the debate.
Why does the tide finally seem to be turning? Partly, I think, it’s just a matter of time; after six years it’s becoming hard not to notice that the anti-Keynesians have been wrong about everything. Europe’s slide toward deflation makes it even harder to deny the realities of liquidity-trap economics. And the refusal of almost everyone on the anti-Keynesian side to admit any kind of error has gradually made them look ridiculous.
All of this may be coming too little and too late to avoid policy disaster, especially in Europe. But it’s something to cheer, faintly."

18
Your Money

When It Comes to Holiday Shopping, Not All Plastic Is Equal

By ANN CARRNS | Nov 25th 2014
To keep your money safe from hackers, many experts recommend using a credit card instead of a debit card both online and in stores.
Black Friday and Cyber Monday (Shopping); Personal Finances; Identity Theft; Credit Cards; Debit Cards

Cash.

19
Opinion

Is Harvard Unfair to Asian-Americans?

By YASCHA MOUNK | Nov 24th 2014
In a true meritocracy, whites would be a minority of the student body. That worries some people.
Colleges and Universities; Admissions Standards; Asian-Americans; Discrimination; Affirmative Action; Race and Ethnicity; Jews and Judaism

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandarin_%28bureaucrat%29

 

20
World

A Nuclear Deal for U.S. and Iran Slips Away Again

By DAVID E. SANGER, MICHAEL R. GORDON and PETER BAKER | Nov 24th 2014
Negotiations carried on in secret for months, but despite a thaw between the governments’ top envoys, the end result is only another extension.
Nuclear Weapons; Nuclear Energy; United States International Relations

The centrifuges are not running.
That is progress.
The comfortable of Iran are afflicted.
That is not progress.
The revolutionary guard is still powerful.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asceticism
Asceticism shields them from external influence.


http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asceticism

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